The UFC have today announced the appointment of James Elliott as Vice President and General Manager of Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).
In a press release by the promotion they stated the following:
Elliott joined UFC in 2013 as Senior Director of Content and was instrumental in the massive growth of the company’s broadcast and television deals throughout Europe. By leveraging key partnerships with premium channel provider BT Sport and free-to-air digital channels like PICK in the United Kingdom; FOX and FOX Sports in the Netherlands; NOVA Sport in Czech Republic and Slovakia; and the All-Russia State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company (VGTRK) in Russia, Elliott has played an integral part in further expanding UFC’s successful European business and bringing UFC to fight fans throughout the region.
On the appointment, UFC Chief Global Brand Officer Garry Cook said: “Our EMEA division has consistently been out-performing expectations and we are thrilled to have James lead our EMEA business to new heights. UFC has enjoyed considerable success in Europe and this year’s slate of historic fights and sold out events are evidence that UFC is continuing to thrive with its global business. James will be someone who not only spearheads our operation in EMEA, but will have a prominent role in UFC’s expansion throughout the region and around the world.”
Elliott added: “UFC has a strong commitment to the European market and I am thrilled to help lead the organization’s thriving business in the region. By leveraging key broadcast partnerships and exciting live events that have sold out some of the biggest arenas in Europe, UFC is poised to expand its global reach for years to come.”
Alan’s Angle: 2015 was a pivotal year for the UFC in the EMEA region. They tested the waters with a successful stadium show in Sweden at the start of the year which also took place in the middle of the night to suit the American TV audience. After that they entered the Polish market and made their Scotland debut as well as returning to Germany. The EMEA 2015 events will come to an end in October with the UFC Dublin show.
With the appointment of James Elliott and the recent revealing that the first event in the region next year will be a return to London in February it seems that the promotion are setting everything in place for a big 2016.
*title image from the UFC via The Sun