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UFC parent company Zuffa buys Strikeforce

Dana White claims business will run as usual © UFC

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Major news in the world of MMA broke on Saturday as the UFC's parent company Zuffa bought rival organisation Strikeforce, in a deal that changes the MMA landscape.

Drawing obvious comparisons to the past purchase of PRIDE, Zuffa have effectively assumed control over the greatest challenger to the UFC's dominance of the sport, and the effects could be extremely positive for fans.

The deal has many ramifications, with the main one being that the UFC now picks up Strikeforce's TV deals, opening up channels to network TV. UFC president Dana White has always said he plans to have events on a weekly basis, and Zuffa's purchase means that becomes a real possibility.

Crucially, the UFC now has access to all Strikeforce fighter contracts. White insists Strikeforce fighters will be made to honour their current deals before any future moves to the UFC, but it means that the likes of Nick Diaz are almost certain to join the UFC in the future.

Other fighters, such as Paul Daley and Josh Barnett, who have history with the UFC are left in a difficult position. White insists Daley will still never fight in the UFC again, which is not a problem whilst Strikeforce continues to operate, but with UFC the No. 1 brand, Strikeforce could become a feeder organisation to the UFC.

Another important bonus for the UFC from the deal is that they pick up all video footage from Strikeforce, allowing them easy promotion of fighters when they cross the pond. However, the two organisations will not cross promote, meaning UFC v Strikeforce events will not take place.

For a full breakdown of this deal, don't miss the ESPN UFC Podcast on Tuesday.

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