UFC 324 Start Time Set To 9 PM ET — A Permanent Shift Under New Paramount Deal
New Era: UFC Moves to Paramount+ with Earlier Start Times
With the broadcast shift to Paramount+, UFC is officially changing how and when its marquee events air. Beginning with UFC 324 — scheduled for January 24, 2026, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas — the main card will now start at 9 p.m. Eastern / 6 p.m. Pacific, one hour earlier than the traditional 10 p.m. ET start. Yahoo Sports+2UFC+2
UFC officials have confirmed that this earlier start time will become the standard for all future numbered events under the Paramount+ deal. Sherdog+2The Gaming Boardroom+2
What Prompted the Change
The shift in start times aligns with the organization’s broader move from traditional pay-per-view to a streaming-first distribution model under Paramount+. The deal — signed through 2026 and beyond — grants Paramount+ exclusive rights to broadcast UFC’s major cards in the U.S. and Latin America, marking the end of the old PPV structure. UFC+2MMA Fighting+2
Under the new model:
- UFC 324 becomes the first “premium” event under Paramount+ instead of PPV. UFC+1
- All numbered events and Fight Nights will stream on Paramount+, with select major cards simulcast on broadcast TV (CBS). UFC+2Sports Video Group+2
The earlier start time is part of a broader effort to make scheduling more fan-friendly — a response to long-standing complaints that late-night main cards often ended in the early hours, especially for East Coast viewers. MMA Mania+2Sherdog+2
What It Means for Fans & Viewers
- Earlier finish times: With a 9 p.m. ET start, main cards should wrap up sooner — making it easier for fans who prefer more reasonable viewing hours.
- Streamlined access: Premium UFC events will no longer require a separate PPV purchase. Instead, they’ll be included with a standard Paramount+ subscription (in regions where the service is available). UFC+2MMA Fighting+2
- Consistent scheduling: The new timing is now the default for all major events — barring exceptional cards (e.g. some international shows) that may still have different start times. Sherdog+1
