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This initiative aligns with the ambitions of the parent company, Entain, in the region as it aims to increase brand awareness and enhance the popularity of its products under the Ladbrokes brand. Ladbrokes is the gambling brand under Entain and has entered into a regional sponsorship agreement with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in Australia and New Zealand. This two-year agreement will give Ladbrokes prominent exposure in the octagon and during UFC broadcasts in both countries. Additionally, Ladbrokes will enter ambassador agreements with UFC athletes to create exclusive content and host fan promotions.
UFC is no stranger to such partnerships. This collaboration stems from Entain's involvement in the locally sponsored Australian Ultimate Fighting Championship by Neds. Expanding sponsorship to Ladbrokes is part of Entain's strategy to adjust sponsorship practices in response to changing perceptions of sports gambling advertising in the community. The company aims to reduce sponsorship activities in Australia to demonstrate its commitment to responsible gambling.
Both Ladbrokes and the Ultimate Fighting Championship express enthusiasm for the partnership, expressing a willingness to extend the agreement and emphasizing their commitment to delivering high-quality content and exciting experiences for fans in Australia and New Zealand. Nick Smith, Vice President of Global Partnerships for UFC and WWE TKO, notes the previous successful collaboration between UFC, Entain, and Neds over the past three years, expressing pleasure in continuing this partnership with the Entain family.
Entain, like UFC, is dedicated to integrating digital sponsorships to support its activities. In October 2023, the MMA Championship witnessed the commencement of a public partnership with Sprite, including an annual brand ambassador program. The new agreement with Ladbrokes signifies a significant milestone for UFC, contributing to its popularity in a promising market.
The hope is to mobilize UFC fans and increase their engagement. Ladbrokes aims to leverage the enduring appeal of the Ultimate Fighting Championship to create exclusive content and promotional activities, aligning with Entain's ambitions in the region. As a gambling industry giant, they recently expressed interest in ensuring Australian audiences can watch sports events live on television for free. The purpose of this initiative is to broadcast sports events, explore collaboration effects, and promote gambling products.
The collaboration with UFC reflects Entain's shift in focus after high-level meetings to management restructuring. The company's latest strategy focuses on core markets, prioritizing sustainable growth and customer safety. Mel Kennedy, Chief Marketing Officer, stated that the lasting appeal and exciting content of the Ultimate Fighting Championship are a perfect fit for the Ladbrokes brand, contributing to the success of both parties.
In 2024, one of the largest UFC events to date will take place, and Ladbrokes is honored to play a key role in it. To underscore Entain's commitment to responsible gambling and the continuous development of community values, UFC and Ladbrokes have signed a two-year sponsorship agreement. This further demonstrates their adaptation to the evolving landscape of gambling promotions. By joining the ranks of UFC sponsors, Ladbrokes and UFC are committed to bringing unparalleled content and captivating experiences to the rapidly growing mixed martial arts fan base in Australia and New Zealand. |
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