SONY ESPN channels to Live Telecast UFC 196 in India

SONY ESPN channels (a part of Sony Pictures Networks India SPN), the latest addition to Sony’s sports cluster, will broadcast the highly anticipated UFC 196, live and exclusive, on 6th March 2016, at 0830 Hrs on SONY ESPN and SONY ESPN HD.

Witnessing UFC’s consistent viewership in the market, SONY ESPN is taking a step forward in growing the sport’s popularity and has launched an MMA Fan Club called The Octagon. The Octagon was formed for people who simply love MMA and will create unique community experiences for fans. The Octagon’s first fan initiative is hosting a special breakfast screening of UFC 196, live at the Hard Rock Café. SONY ESPN is conducting an on air & social media contest for viewers who can win an exclusive opportunity to be a part of The Octagon experience.

The fight card will be headlined by Featherweight Champion, Conor McGregor who will take on lightweight contender Nate Diaz in the highly anticipated match-up. McGregor’s popularity grew exponentially after he defeated Jose Aldo in 13 seconds to win the Featherweight title in UFC 194. He had hoped to win the lightweight belt simultaneously before Dos Anjos pulled out, citing an injury. His new opponent for UFC 196, Nate Diaz, whose brash style is expected to make a strong draw, has already grabbed eyeballs from a lot of MMA fans worldwide.

Women’s Bantamweight Champion, Holly Holm will put her title on the line against No. 2 Miesha Tate in the co-main event. This will be Holly Holm’s first title defence after she dethroned former champion, Ronda Rousey in November. Tate’s recent fight was a one-sided win over Jessica Eye, with her striking technique and is expected to put up a tough show against Holm in the upcoming fight. As a result, UFC 196 could prove to be a colossal of an event.

The UFC 196 fight card live screening will be taking place on March 6, 2016, at 0800 Hrs at the: Hard Rock Café, near Fun Cinema Lane, Off Veera Desai Road, Andheri West, Mumbai – 400053. The screening is also open to walk in consumers who would like to be a part of the community experience.