3E HAS AGREED a deal to show future UFC events as part of its 2014 autumn schedule.

During this afternoon’s launch at the Mansion House, TV3 and sister channel 3e revealed its latest line-up of programmes which includes a broadcast partnership with MMA’s elite promotion.

The news comes on the back of the enormous success 3e enjoyed back in July when 600,000 viewers tuned in to watch UFC Fight Night Dublin — making it the highest rating sporting event ever on the channel.

3e is set to bring free-to-air access to all PPV UFC events from the US and will also show over 100 hours of delayed UFC content over the next year.

In addition, they will have coverage of Conor McGregor’s upcoming fight against Dustin Poirier at UFC 178 in Las Vegas on 27 September.

“We are delighted to be partnering with the UFC,” said Kieran Holden, TV3 Group Head of Sport.

“Our efforts in promoting ‘UFC Fight Night in Dublin’ earlier this year showed just how committed 3e and the wider TV3 Group is to this growing sport.

The 600,000 viewers who tuned into Conor McGregor’s fight in Dublin can now enjoy future fights completely free-to-air via 3e beginning with Conor’s next bout from Vegas.”

Earlier this week, it was announced that UFC 178 will be shown live to Irish viewers on BT Sport as part of the Setanta Sports pack.

TV3 also has exclusive rights to all 48 matches in next year’s Rugby World Cup as well as Champions League and Europa League games.

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