UFC 186 unavailable to Dish Network subscribers after contract talks break down

The road to UFC 186 just keeps getting stranger and stranger.

First, the main event between bantamweight champ TJ Dillashaw and Renan Barao was postponed due to injury. Then, there was the well-documented tug-of-war between the UFC and Bellator over Quinton “Rampage” Jackson’s involvement in the co-main event. Now, on Wednesday, the UFC has announced that Dish Network and the Las Vegas-based MMA promotion have been unsuccessful in coming to terms on a distribution deal. Therefore, Dish Network subscribers won’t be able to purchase UFC 186.

The UFC issued the following statement to its fans via their website.

“Due to contractual issues, DISH Network will not be offering UFC 186: Johnson vs. Horiguchi on Pay-Per-View this Saturday. While all other providers in the U.S. have come to an agreement on renewal terms, DISH Network has elected not to renew its distribution agreement with UFC. We have enjoyed a strong and productive relationship with DISH over the years, and while we’re disappointed with their decision, we are confident that our fans will be able to enjoy this weekend’s card through several other viewing options that you can read more about by clicking here. We remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached with DISH in the near future, but remain committed to ensuring that all fans have continued access to UFC events through multiple distribution options.”

It is fairly commonplace in the television world for providers to negotiate over terms. Viewers often lose their favorite shows when corporations essentially use them as leverage to negotiate better terms for certain channels.

MMA fans needn’t worry too much though; issues like this are usually resolved in due time. However, those wanting to watch this Saturday’s fights will have to change service providers or take the UFC’s advice and phone a friend.