For the longest time, we’d like to think that the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) league have had a great relationship with THQ, even through things have gotten a little rough with the publisher. Electronic Arts produced the competitive EA Sports MMA, which caused UFC president Dana White to have some harsh words for the company. Today, White took to the stage to join a new powerhouse relationship that will take the UFC games to the next level.
During today’s EA Pre-E3 press conference, Dana White came out to a thrilled audience to announce an agreement between UFC operator Zuffa, LLC and EA Sports. Though an actual title hasn’t been announced, this partnership means big things to come for both companies.
“We’re thrilled to begin a long-term partnership that will bring fans incredibly authentic, and deeply connected, UFC videogames,” said Andrew Wilson, EVP and Head of EA SPORTS. “UFC has become a global powerhouse because they have the world’s best fighters, competing in the world’s best mixed martial arts events. We share UFC’s passion for the sport, and we look forward to capturing all of the intensity and excitement of the action with unique new game experiences across a range of platforms.”
“We’d like to thank THQ for creating some of the most critically-acclaimed sports videogames of this console generation, and we’re excited to enter a new relationship with EA that will help us deepen our connection with fighting fans around the world,” said UFC President Dana White. “There’s no one better at creating authentic sports videogames than EA SPORTS, and we’re excited to have a partner who shares our vision of deep, connected and multi-platform global game experiences.”
“We’ve relished our relationship with UFC over the last several years and believe that the UFC gaming brand is in great shape. THQ’s more focused strategy moving forward meant that transferring the license to EA made sense to all parties,” said THQ CEO Brian Farrell. “We’d like to thank the UFC for their great support and partnership and wish EA all the best moving forward.”
While we’re happy to hear that THQ has willingly given up the license for this new deal, this means the end of the UFC Undisputed brand. It was fun while it lasted, guys… and 3 is one hell of a ride.
Look for more UFC news as we get it!
Published: Jun 4, 2012 02:37 pm