Fight.ID is making significant strides in the world of digital collectibles by leveraging blockchain technology to enhance the connection between UFC’s expansive global fanbase and the burgeoning market of crypto consumers. The initiative aims to develop Fight.ID as a loyalty experience platform, along with features like Prize Fight—a prize pool aimed at providing additional bonuses for fighters—and Fight Gear, which includes premium apparel exclusive to the Fight ecosystem.
Grant Norris-Jones, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Partnerships at TKO, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “UFC has always embraced an innovation-first mentality. James and his team have proven to be a dynamic and innovative partner for us, and we are extremely excited to support the Fight.ID ecosystem over the next several years.”
In a move to expand its partnership with the UFC further, Fight.ID has successfully raised new financing from a variety of investors, including prominent firms like Anthos Capital, Aptos Foundation, Aquanow Ventures, Blockchain Coinvestors, Fabric VC, Jupiter, and Memeland. The initiative has also caught the attention of angel investors, including well-known UFC fighters such as Gilbert Burns, Josh Emmett, and Vicente Luque, alongside notable figures from other sports and the entertainment industry, including NBA legend Baron Davis and NFL star Cam Jordan.
The recent capital injection will be instrumental in creating a suite of digital products that emphasize Web3 technologies, promoting genuine ownership while fostering new experiences to engage and reward combat sports enthusiasts. This development is aligned with Four guiding principles set by Fight.ID: Fight Fair, Fight Together, Fight Through, and Fight Forever.
James Zhang, CoFounder and CEO of Fight.ID, reflected on the timely opportunity for blockchain investment, saying, “As our world continues to become more digitally enabled, there is no better time than now to invest in blockchain projects. There’s also no better time to become a UFC fan as MMA continues to capture our cultural zeitgeist.” He emphasized the existing trust and collaboration fostered between their teams, especially through the creation of UFC’s official digital collectibles. Zhang encouraged fans to join in on the exciting evolution of digital ownership within the sport, stating, “Everyone has a fight story. Join Fight.ID. See you in the Octagon.”
