UFC Adds Real-time Stats
The UFC is set to introduce a new in-fight statistics system that will deliver real-time data to viewers.
WME boss Ari Emanuel, discussed how the UFC is aiming to build a data business in part by placing sensors on athletes’ gloves, shorts and throughout the arena.
Also on stage with Emanuel was UFC president Dana White, who said: “We’re working on a lot of stats. We want to see the best knock out — its perfect for social media.”
The pair talked about how sensors could be used to detect the speed of a fighter’s punch, its impact and the number thrown, both during competition and training camps.
“We’re going to start creating videos from it that will be shareable with emojis,” Emanuel added. “We’re about six months away from that.”
If that timetable is correct, that means the tech could be in place by the beginning of 2018 and all fights moving forward could generate this data.
The developments will build on other innovations around its broadcast model such as a recent partnership with Samsung Gear VR to show live events in 360-degree VR. The company also agreed a multi-year deal with Snapchat to make use of the ‘Our Stories’ function around fight weekends.
