In an exciting turn of events for trading card enthusiasts and mixed martial arts fans, Topps has reclaimed the UFC trading card license in a new deal with Fanatics Collectibles. This exclusive multi-year agreement, announced on Wednesday, marks a significant moment in the world of UFC collectibles.
Under this partnership, Topps will regain its position as the primary producer of UFC trading cards, a role it held from 2009 to 2020 before Panini America took over for a brief period. The negotiation was expertly conducted with the assistance of UFC’s licensing agent IMG, ensuring a smooth transition.
The reinstatement of Topps at the forefront of UFC trading cards has garnered much excitement among fans and collectors. Tracey Bleczinski, Senior Vice President of UFC Global Consumer Products, expressed enthusiasm about the reunion, acknowledging the vibrant market for UFC collectibles fueled by the sport’s immense popularity and its exceptional athletes.
With the renewed partnership, UFC enthusiasts can look forward to new avenues of engagement with the sport and their favorite fighters through collectibles. The first product to emerge from this partnership will be the highly anticipated 2024 Topps Chrome UFC, slated for release on February 28.
Fanatics Collectibles, led by CEO Mike Mahan, shares in the excitement and is committed to capturing the essence of the sport’s emerging stars through their trading cards. The popularity of UFC trading cards among collectors is already evident, and Fanatics Collectibles aims to innovate further in this space.
One of the initiatives to deepen the connection between fans and fighters is the leverage of Fanatics Collectibles’ Fanatics Live platform. Through this live breaking/commerce platform, fans can engage in athlete interviews and live card breaks featuring fighters. This unique approach enriches the collecting experience by providing access to exclusive content and interactions.
Adding to the excitement is the existing partnership between UFC and Fanatics in the realm of memorabilia and apparel. Fans already have access to a wide range of UFC products at events and online through UFC Commerce. With Topps now joining the Fanatics umbrella, the collaboration is set to enhance the selection of memorabilia and collectibles available, allowing fans to further celebrate their passion for mixed martial arts.
In conclusion, the reclamation of the UFC trading card license by Topps in partnership with Fanatics Collectibles marks a pivotal moment for UFC collectibles. The vibrant market and fanbase surrounding the sport, coupled with the commitment to innovation, ensure that UFC enthusiasts are in for an exciting future filled with new and engaging ways to connect with the sport and their favorite fighters. With Topps once again at the helm, the world of UFC trading cards is set to thrive.
