The Latin American-focused organization now expands distribution for English-speaking viewers.
Despite signing deals for distribution for South America, Combate Americas hasn’t had a consistent outlet for American fans since terminating their deal with UFC’s Fight Pass earlier this year. Now, they’ve got a new deal on hand, and it turns out to be a very timely one.
Initially reported by Steven Muehlhausen, Combate Americas will now be available for streaming in English-speaking households starting with next week’s Miami event. The card is being promoted in conduction with the 2017 International Champions Cup game between powerhouse soccer teams Real Madrid and Barcelona, which takes place two days later.
BREAKING: @combateamericas agrees to deal w/@ESPN. 1st event July 27, air on ESPN 3. 1st time MMA w/English language ESPN platform in US
— Steven Muehlhausen (@SMuehlhausenMMA) July 15, 2017
It makes perfect sense for viewers given that only a few national markets have access to TV Azteca’s U.S. network, Azteca America. It also remains a reliable online option for fans without a paywall, unlike a service such as Fight Pass.
The 10-fight card features hard-hitting Ricardo Palacios taking on former UFC talent Chris Avlia, as well as Spanish-born American talent Tommy Aaron fighting fellow Spaniard M-1 veteran Javier Fuentes. The bout also features a fight between atomweight Kyra Batara taking on Spanish Judoka Vanessa Rico Fernandez. The two will finally meet in the cage after their initial bout in February was cancelled due to Batara missing weight. Former Ultimate Fighter contestant Abner Lloveras was pulled from this card due to injury.
As mentioned above, Combate Clasico takes place on July 27th in Miami, FL. It will be streamed live from the Mana Wynwood Convention Center via ESPN 3.
