15/5/5 For The Week of November 18th

15 TO WATCH

1. Netflix Draws 60 Million Viewers Despite Streaming Issues for Tyson-Paul Fight
   Netflix’s highly anticipated Tyson-Paul boxing match faced streaming issues, with outages reported globally. However, the platform achieved 60 million household views for the main event and peaked at 65 million concurrent streams. The co-main event featuring Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano averaged 50 million viewers, potentially becoming the most-watched women’s sports event in U.S. history.

2. Jon Jones Retains Title at UFC 309 in Record-Setting Event
   On Saturday night, the iconic Madison Square Garden was packed and raucous as Jon Jones defended his UFC Heavyweight Champion status against Stipe Miocic, ending the fight with a vicious spinning back kick to the body. This marks Jones’ 16th title defense, the most in UFC history, and makes him the 4th fighter to defend a title in two different weight classes. Stipe Miocic, a legend in his own right, retired after the fight. President-elect Donald Trump was in attendance, flanked by Elon Musk, Dana White, and several members of his new cabinet. Fighters throughout the night acknowledged the President, and Jon Jones capped the night off by handing his championship belt to President Trump and starting a “USA” chant that boomed through MSG. In the Co-Main event, Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler, who are both known for exciting fights, did not disappoint, securing Fight of The Night Bonuses as Oliveira won by unanimous decision in a 5-round war. Oliveira showed he is still a major threat for the title in the Lightweight division by putting on an absolute clinic through the first four rounds, but Chandler stunned Oliveira in the 5th round with a wild final flurry that fell just short. Penn State Wrestling Phenom Bo Nickal also secured a victory over veteran Paul Craig, moving his MMA record to 7-0 and inching him closer to becoming a legit contender in the middleweight division if he continues this trajectory. The event drew an announced attendance of 20,200, generating a live gate of $16,673,954, continuing the UFC’s strong year

3. ESPN Sublicenses Big 12 Games to TNT as NBA Deal Evolves
   ESPN will sublicense Big 12 football and basketball games to TNT and Max under a five-year agreement. The deal also allows ESPN to air the iconic "Inside the NBA" program. TNT’s expanded sports portfolio includes college football, NASCAR, and now Big 12 games, complementing its long-standing reputation in live sports.

4. Jannik Sinner Wins ATP Finals with Historic $4.9 Million Prize
   World No. 1 Jannik Sinner claimed the ATP Finals title in Italy, earning $4.9 million, the highest payout for an ATP tournament. Sinner capped a dominant season with 70 wins, eight titles, and $17 million in earnings. Despite off-court challenges related to a doping investigation, Sinner’s stellar performance solidified his standing as one of the sport's elite.

5. Global Rugby Franchise League Set for 2026 Launch
   A new global rugby league inspired by F1's format will launch in 2026, featuring eight franchises and a festival-like atmosphere. Backed by UK and U.S. investors, the league aims to increase player salaries to $887,000 annually while fostering fan engagement. Its structure ensures alignment with the international rugby schedule.

6. Diamond Sports Rebrands as FanDuel Sports Network Post-Bankruptcy
   Diamond Sports Group exited bankruptcy, reducing its debt from $8.67 billion to $200 million, and rebranded as FanDuel Sports Network. The company secured multi-year partnerships with MLB and NHL teams while integrating direct-to-consumer streaming options like single-game pricing. This restructuring marks a significant shift in the regional sports network landscape.

7. Oregon Remains Unanimous No. 1 in College Football Rankings
   Oregon held the No. 1 spot in the AP Top 25 poll after a narrow victory over Wisconsin, maintaining its perfect season. The Ducks aim to complete their first undefeated regular season since 2010. The Big Ten dominates the top five, while Tulane made its biggest jump to No. 20 after a shutout win against Navy.

8. Bills’ New Stadium Costs Rise to $2.1 Billion Amid Inflation
   The Buffalo Bills' new stadium project has exceeded its budget by $560 million, now estimated at $2.1 billion. Owners Terry and Kim Pegula will cover the overruns while leveraging seat licensing fees and potential minority ownership sales. Despite challenges, the stadium is on track for a June 2026 opening.

9. Rays’ $1.3 Billion Ballpark Deal Faces Uncertainty
   The Tampa Bay Rays' proposed ballpark deal in Pinellas County faces delays due to postponed bond votes. Rising costs could leave the Rays responsible for overruns, with potential relocation looming as an option. This marks another hurdle for securing the team's future in Tampa Bay.

10. Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Boosts Blue Jays and Rogers Communications
    Taylor Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour concluded with six shows at Rogers Centre, driving massive engagement for Blue Jays fans. Rogers Communications leveraged the tour to promote season ticket renewals and invested $8 million in 5G upgrades. The company continues to expand its influence in Canadian sports.

11. Russell Okung Launches Bitcoin-Powered Flag Football League
    Former NFL player Russell Okung introduced "Bitball," a Bitcoin-driven sports league, debuting with a flag football game in Abu Dhabi. The league aims to redefine athlete compensation, offering payments in Bitcoin. Okung’s initiative seeks to promote financial independence and challenge traditional sports payment models.

12. 23XI and Front Row Motorsports Race Amid Legal Dispute
    23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports will compete as open teams in 2025 due to their ongoing lawsuit with NASCAR over charter team status. While open teams face financial risks, the arrangement ensures their participation in every race. The teams are advocating for fairer revenue sharing in future agreements.

13. Paul Skenes’ Rookie Card Sparks Bidding Frenzy
    A one-of-one autographed Paul Skenes rookie card from Topps has ignited a bidding war. The Pittsburgh Pirates offered exclusive perks, including season tickets and meet-and-greet opportunities, to acquire the card. Meanwhile, auction houses are countering with lucrative cash offers, driving interest in this rare collectible.

14. Ichiro and Sabathia Lead Baseball Hall of Fame Ballot
    Ichiro Suzuki and CC Sabathia headline the 2025 Baseball Hall of Fame ballot, with both expected to gain first-ballot induction. Ichiro’s historic 3,089 MLB hits and Sabathia’s 3,093 strikeouts cement their legacies. Returning candidates like Billy Wagner and Andruw Jones also aim for election amid a competitive field.

15. LIV Golf Expands 2025 Calendar with U.S. and South Korea Stops
    LIV Golf added events in South Korea and Indiana to its 2025 schedule, enhancing its global presence. The league aims to engage fans with innovative tournaments while increasing player salaries. Additional venues and expanded formats reflect LIV Golf’s ambitious growth strategy.

SPORTS TECH 5

1. UFC Partners with IBM in Major AI Sponsorship Deal
   UFC signed an eight-figure sponsorship deal with IBM to leverage AI technology for fan engagement. IBM becomes UFC’s official technology and global AI partner, expanding UFC's branding in elite tech sports sponsorships. This collaboration highlights UFC’s growing appeal beyond traditional sports markets.

2. India’s Sports Market Poised for $130 Billion Growth by 2030
   A Deloitte-Google report projects India’s sports market to double in value by 2030, driven by multi-sport fandom and digital adoption. Gen Z fans, comprising 43% of the audience, increasingly engage with AI-driven content. Cricket remains dominant, but emerging sports like kabaddi and football are expanding their footprints.

3. Florida Introduces Facial Recognition for Stadium Entry
   The University of Florida deployed Wicket’s facial authentication technology for express stadium entry during football games. This innovation aims to streamline fan experiences and enhance security. Florida’s adoption signals broader potential for facial recognition in sports venues nationwide.

4. F1 Implements Cooling Kits to Protect Drivers in Extreme Heat
   Formula 1 mandated cooling systems for 2025 to address safety concerns after extreme heat affected drivers at the Qatar Grand Prix. The new technology includes heat exchangers and chassis modifications to maintain cockpit temperatures. This marks another milestone in F1’s commitment to driver welfare.

5. Trump Era Spurs Crypto Resurgence in Sports
   Bitcoin prices surged 25% following U.S. election results, reigniting sports-related crypto ventures. With blockchain platforms improving usability, sports leagues explore opportunities in ticketing, fan engagement, and collectibles. Partnerships like Coinbase’s NBA sponsorship highlight crypto's expanding influence in sports.

GOOD SPORTS 5

1. Sports Philanthropy World Conference Returns to Chicago
   Sports Philanthropy World 2024 will gather leaders in sports philanthropy to discuss mental health, skill development, and societal impact. Featuring keynote speaker Leigh Steinberg, the event emphasizes building a culture of philanthropy in sports. Over 60 speakers from 23 states will participate in this influential conference.

2. Syracuse Charity Auction Supports Local Rescue Mission
   Syracuse University’s Annual Charity Sports Auction aims to raise funds for the Rescue Mission Alliance of Syracuse. Featuring unique items like signed memorabilia, the event has raised over $713,000 for local nonprofits since its inception. This year’s auction focuses on addressing homelessness and poverty in the community.

3. Sen. Ted Cruz Promises New College Sports Legislation
   With Ted Cruz set to lead the Senate Commerce Committee, new legislation could address NIL regulations and athlete employment. Cruz’s proposed bill seeks to preserve amateurism while introducing revenue-sharing mechanisms. This development marks a pivotal moment for NCAA’s legislative goals.

4. University of Chichester Launches Esports Psychology Degree
   The University of Chichester introduced a world-first BSc in Esports Psychology, blending science with competitive gaming principles. Graduates will gain skills for careers in esports coaching, team analysis, and performance psychology. This innovative program reflects the growing academic recognition of esports.

5. Red Wings Alumni Face Off for Charity
   Detroit Red Wings alumni participated in a charity game against veterans and frontline workers, raising $75,000 for the Living and Learning Enrichment Center. The event celebrated community support and inclusion, benefiting individuals with disabilities. Fans enjoyed an inspiring showcase of hockey for a meaningful cause.

Sources: Front Office Sports, Sports Business Journal, Sportico, Golf Business News, Business Today, Rev Sports, KTLA News, Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics, ESports Insider, CBS News, On3, SportsPro Media, SportCal, Associated Press, Tampa Bay Times, ESPN