UFC, DraftKings Launch NFT Collection

The global martial-arts organisation, UFC, and fantasy sports company, DraftKings, have launched an NFT project, allowing fans and users to build vast collections of active fighters for in-game use.

Reignmakers, will introduce known game mechanics, as well as functionality, missions, achievements, level-ups and leader boards, however, fans can start collecting fighter NFTs which are tied to in-game playable characters.

There will also be over500 different NFTs dropped and auctioned to fans on DraftKings’ ‘heatwave series’ which will be based around this summer’s events, starting with UFC 276: Adesanya vs Cannonier on 2 July.

Fans will be allowed to receive cash and other custom merchandise rewards under the agreement with NFT utilities determining entries to daily fantasy contests.

Commenting on the relationship, UFC senior vice president of global consumer products, Tracey Bleczinski, said: “We’re excited to expand our relationship with DraftKings to incorporate UFC into their highly anticipated Reignmakers gamified NFT collection.”

“Reignmakers UFC will be a unique, innovative opportunity to create fan engagement that combines DraftKings’ expertise in digital sports entertainment with pioneering technology that features hundreds of UFC athletes, including some of the biggest names in the sport,” he said.

DraftKings Marketplace, SVP of product operations, Beth Beiriger, said: “UFC has been a tremendous collaborator over the years, and we are delighted for the organization to represent our latest instalment within DraftKings’ burgeoning Reignmakers gamified digital collectibles franchise.

“Fight fans are already among the most engaged audiences, and we see these immersive technologies as bolstering the unique sports entertainment ecosystem we provide for consumers while also rewarding their undeniable passion,” she said.

The announcement comes after the NFL announced the launch of the NFT game, NFL Rivals.