Issue 094
November 2012
NICK PEET
Editor, Fighters Only Magazine
YES
This is a game-changer for mixed martial arts. Nike is the biggest sportswear manufacturer on the planet, and having the swoosh adorning fight shorts inside the Octagon is easily the most exciting commercial deal to happen to MMA since the UFC signed with Fox TV. Unlike any other sport, MMA has built up a multi-million dollar clothing and merchandise industry all by itself – and so it was a no-brainer that a brand like Nike would eventually want a piece of the market. ‘Nike Knows!’
Ariel Helwani
2011 Fighters Only World MMA Awards ‘Journalist of the Year’
NO
It remains to be seen. Right now, it’s big news. However, I think blue chip sponsors, like Nike, are taking a wait-and-see approach with mixed martial arts. It’s more about the right athlete at the right time, not the sport.
Jon Jones has opened a new door for the sport, but he’s the only one currently walking through it. I don’t expect hundreds of big companies to sponsor other mixed martial artists in the next year as a result.
What you had to say on the matter ...
YES
“Yes, it will cause all other brands to evaluate the market, can only lead to a more commercial marketplace, great news for all!”
@NOT_MOBY
NO
“No because it shows MMA is getting bigger so larger brands ie Nike will increase its popularity with more exposure on products.”
@LUKE_ARROWSMITH
YES
“With @Nike & @UFCONFOX deals I believe its ‘One Small Step for #MMA One Giant Leap For the Sport’ #FullSpeedAhead”
@ ZURICHARMSTRONG
YES
“#MMA still has some social stigma attached to it. The Nike deal is a stamp of approval & will be a precursor to great things.”
@IGORLEDZINSKI
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