UFC Schedule, Fight Cards, Start Times, Odds & How to Watch UFC — Complete Fan Guide

If you’ve ever missed a big knockout or found out after the fight that your favorite UFC star was in action, you’re not alone. UFC moves fast. One weekend it’s a Fight Night at the Apex, the next it’s a massive pay-per-view card in Las Vegas with titles on the line.

That’s why having a reliable, up-to-date UFC schedule with full fight cards, start times, odds, and viewing options is essential for every MMA fan. Whether you’re a casual viewer or someone who plans their weekends around the Octagon, this guide will keep you ahead of the action.

In this detailed breakdown, we’ll walk you step by step through how to follow UFC events, understand fight cards, read betting odds, and confidently decide where and how to watch UFC live.

What Is the UFC Schedule and Why It Matters

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) hosts events almost every week, including:

• UFC Fight Night events

• UFC Pay-Per-View (PPV) cards

• International shows across the US, Europe, Asia, and Australia

The official UFC schedule lists:

• Event dates

• Locations

• Main events

• Full fight cards

• Start times

• Broadcast platforms

You can always check the official source on the UFC website, but having everything summarized in one place saves time—and prevents surprises.

Anecdote:
Ask any longtime fan about the first time they stayed up till 5 a.m. for a main event, only to realize the start time was listed in a different time zone. Lesson learned: always double-check the schedule.

Understanding UFC Fight Cards (Main Card vs Prelims)

Each UFC event is split into sections. Knowing the difference helps you plan your viewing time better.

Main Card

The main card features the biggest fights of the night:

• Title fights

• Top contenders

• Fan-favorite fighters

These bouts usually start around 9 p.m. ET and are broadcast on platforms like ESPN+ or PPV providers.

Preliminary Card (Prelims)

The prelims showcase rising stars and experienced veterans:

• Often just as exciting

• Sometimes where future champions emerge

Prelims typically start 2–3 hours before the main card.

Early Prelims

These are the opening fights:

• Lesser-known fighters

• High pace, high hunger bouts

Perfect for hardcore fans who love raw action.

UFC Start Times Explained (Avoid Missing the Main Event)

Start times are one of the most searched topics related to UFC events, and for good reason.

Here’s a simple rule:

• Fight Night events: Main card usually starts at 7 or 9 p.m. ET

• PPV events: Main card almost always starts at 10 p.m. ET

However, international events may start earlier or later depending on location.

👉 Always convert start times using tools like World Time Buddy if you’re outside the US.

How to Read UFC Odds (Beginner-Friendly Guide)

Betting odds can look confusing, but once you understand them, they tell a story about each fight.

Favorite vs Underdog

• Negative odds (-150) → Favorite

• Positive odds (+130) → Underdog

For example:

• A fighter at -200 is expected to win

• A fighter at +170 could be a value pick

Where Do UFC Odds Come From?

Odds are set by sportsbooks like:

• BetMGM

• DraftKings

• FanDuel

These platforms analyze:

• Fighter form

• Injury updates

• Fight styles

• Public betting trends

How to Watch UFC Live (Step-by-Step)

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to never miss a UFC fight again:

Step 1: Check the Event Type

• Fight Night → ESPN / ESPN+

• PPV → ESPN+ Pay-Per-View

Step 2: Choose Your Platform

• ESPN+ – Primary UFC partner

• Cable providers for PPV events

• UFC Fight Pass for archives and prelims

Step 3: Confirm Start Time

Always confirm:

• Local time zone

• Prelims vs main card start

Step 4: Set a Reminder

Use:

• Google Calendar

• UFC app notifications

• Sports apps like Bleacher Report

Watching UFC Internationally

If you’re outside the US, broadcast partners vary:

• UK: BT Sport

• Canada: TSN

• Australia: Kayo Sports

• Global streaming: UFC Fight Pass

Why Following the UFC Schedule Gives You an Edge

Staying updated isn’t just about watching fights—it enhances the entire experience:

• Better fantasy picks

• Smarter betting decisions

• More informed fight discussions

• No missed title bouts

Anecdote:
Many fans discovered future champions like Islam Makhachev and Leon Edwards by watching early prelims. Staying informed pays off.

Why You Should Buy UFC PPV with Confidence

UFC PPVs aren’t cheap—but they deliver value:

• Championship fights

• High production quality

• Multiple elite matchups in one night

Buying directly through ESPN+ PPV ensures:

• Reliable streaming

• HD quality

• Replays on demand

For true fans, it’s not just entertainment—it’s an experience.

SportInsiderly Thoughts

UFC never slows down, and neither should you. With this complete guide to the UFC schedule, fight cards, start times, odds, and how to watch UFC, you’re fully equipped to follow every punch, kick, and submission.

Bookmark this page, check back often, and enjoy the chaos—because in the UFC, anything can happen.

Stay tuned with SportInsiderly for expert analysis, match previews, and everything you need to experience UFC at its highest level.

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