Yesterday, Crypto.com revealed that it will release the first authorised UFC NFT. According to the news release, the new NFT series will feature digital collectables such as fight night paintings, event posters, championship belts, fighter personas and avatars.
The collection of NFTs, known as UFC 268 Packs, will be available to purchase on Thursday. The launch will support the up and coming UFC 268: Usman vs Covington 2 fight which will be represented by this event’s fight posters and belt designs. Fans will be able to purchase NFTs while supplies last.
In July, UFC signed a $175 million sponsorship deal with Crypto.com. The agreement was announced by UFC president Dana White during a press conference at Madison Square Garden in New York City. He said that this was the organisation’s latest sponsorship deal to date.
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This collaboration is the latest development in the integration of crypto into the sports industry. Crypto.com is interested in the world-wide fan base of UFC, which has over 625 million followers around the world.
Crypto.com recently partnered with Hollywood star Matt Damon and has also teamed up with the Nation Hockey League’s Montreal Canadiens, Formula One and the National Basketball Association’s Philadelphia 76ers. They also have ties with the Italian Serie A Football League, Paris Saint-Germain and Snoop Dog.
All of the official UFC digital assets will be available to purchase through crypto.com. The platform allows fans to purchase NFTs with its native token, CRO or other popular cryptocurrencies via an operational payment system.
Crypto.com CEO, Kris Marszalek, said “UFC is a premier global sports brand with legions of avid fans worldwide, and we’re excited to leverage our technology to provide unique fan engagement opportunities and security for their collectables,” adding that the company wants to “help UFC fans secure and engage with their collectibles.”