DraftKings, the sports betting site recently signed a contract to release UFC NFTs in its “Reignmakers” collection. As its football “Reignmakers” series, UFC DraftKings NFTs allow holders to practice fantasy sports, bet and win prizes.
Based on the official UFC statement, DraftKings will begin dropping “Heatwave Collection” UFC NFTs during summer. The UFC states that MMA fans should expect the initial NFT drop before seconds of the July match between Adesanya and Cannonier.
Though “UFC Reignmakers” NFTs will be available during the summer, the UFC does not expect its fantasy game to be live until late 2022. Moreover, the UFC said NFT holders may receive special prizes before the “Reignmakers” release.
As part of the deal, DraftKings could use the UFC’s IP to mint NFTs associated with at least 500 present fighters. DraftKings’ executives states that they will monitor demand for “UFC Reignmakers”NFTs to determine the perfect whole supply.
Each NFT in the “UFC Reignmakers” series will have various stats and rarity rankings, which will affect a player’s chances of winning prizes. DraftKings did not explain any specific rewards, but it offered players probably win exclusive costumes, cash, and unique NFTs.
DraftKings and UFC leaders think the “UFC Reignmakers” collection will increase fan engagement by giving more interactive chances. UFC Director Tracey Bleczinski also stated that the cooperation makes sense, given that UFC fans are “initial adopters” of new digital techs.
The UFC leads MMA into the metaverse
Alike the NBA, the UFC has been one of the most crypto-friendly professional sports leagues. In fact, the UFC’s NFT market UFC Strike has proven to be a worthwhile competitor to Dapper Labs’ top NBA Top Shot.
Besides, made by Dapper Labs, UFC Strike has grossed around $8.6 million since its release in February the current year. Dapper Labs considers a record 60,000 people created new crypto wallets on its Flow Blockchain to participate in UFC Strike’s opening day NFT release.
Apart from UFC Strike, the Singapore-based exchange Crypto.com often releases UFC NFTs on its NFT market. In 2021, Crypto.com paid approximately $200 million for a unique collaboration with the UFC.
Considering multimillion-dollar sponsorships, the UFC recently signed a deal with the blockchain VeChain. VeChain is estimated to have spent around $100 million to show its name at UFC events.
Numerous UFC athletes seem to be eager to integrate the league with crypto and NFTs. A few months ago, UFC flyweight Matheus Nicolau stated he would take his future salaries in Bitcoin. The MMA company said fighters could apply for a “bitcoin bounces” after UFC 273 as well.
UFC fans will probably see more crypto collaborations and NFT releases in the coming months.
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