Does Buffalo Wild Wings Stream UFC? Your Ultimate Guide to Fight Night
Buffalo Wild Wings can and often does show UFC fights, but whether your local restaurant streams a particular UFC event depends on several factors, most importantly its licensing and the popularity of the fight.
The Octagon Meets the Wings: A Brief History
Buffalo Wild Wings and similar sports bars have long been synonymous with enjoying live sporting events. UFC, with its explosive action and growing fanbase, naturally fits into that picture. However, broadcasting UFC events isn’t as simple as tuning in at home. It requires commercial licensing agreements, and those agreements come with rules and costs.
Understanding the Licensing Landscape
UFC events are broadcast under a pay-per-view (PPV) model. This means that to legally show a fight, businesses must purchase a commercial license, which can be significantly more expensive than a residential subscription. The price is determined by factors like the venue’s capacity and fire code.
- Residential PPV: For home viewers.
- Commercial PPV: For businesses, much pricier.
- UFC Fight Pass: A streaming service providing access to UFC content, but typically not live PPV events.
The licensing fee essentially covers the potential lost revenue the UFC might experience if a large number of people watched the event at a bar instead of paying for it individually at home.
Factors Influencing Whether Buffalo Wild Wings Streams UFC
Several factors come into play when a Buffalo Wild Wings franchise decides whether to show a UFC event.
- Commercial License Acquisition: Does the specific restaurant have the necessary license for the particular event?
- Event Popularity: High-profile fights with major stars are more likely to be shown.
- Local Demand: If there’s strong local interest, the restaurant is more likely to invest in the license.
- Franchise Ownership: Individual franchisees have some autonomy in their decisions.
- State and Local Regulations: Regulations can vary, affecting alcohol sales and event timing.
Finding Out if Your Local Buffalo Wild Wings Will Stream a Fight
The best way to determine if your local Buffalo Wild Wings will be showing a specific UFC event is to contact them directly.
- Call the Restaurant: The simplest and most direct approach.
- Check Their Website/Social Media: Some locations announce upcoming events online.
- Use the Buffalo Wild Wings App: This app can provide information on location-specific events.
Why Some Buffalo Wild Wings Might Not Show UFC
Even with the rising popularity of UFC, not all Buffalo Wild Wings locations choose to show every event. The reasons vary.
- Cost: The commercial licensing fees can be prohibitive, especially for smaller or less popular fights.
- Alternatives: Some locations may prioritize other sporting events like NFL, NBA, or MLB.
- Competition: Other sports bars in the area might already be showing the fight.
- Operational Considerations: Showing a UFC event requires staffing and security, which can strain resources.
Alternatives to Buffalo Wild Wings
If your local Buffalo Wild Wings isn’t showing the fight, consider these alternatives:
- Other Sports Bars: Many independent and chain sports bars also show UFC events.
- Movie Theaters: Some theaters broadcast select UFC fights on the big screen.
- Directly Ordering PPV: Watch it at home with friends.
Frequently Asked Questions About UFC at Buffalo Wild Wings
Does Buffalo Wild Wings always show UFC fights?
No, Buffalo Wild Wings does not always show UFC fights. It depends on whether the individual franchise has purchased the commercial license for that particular event. Factors influencing this decision include the fight’s popularity and local demand.
How can I find out if my local Buffalo Wild Wings is showing a specific UFC event?
The best way is to contact your local Buffalo Wild Wings directly. Call the restaurant or check their website or social media pages. The Buffalo Wild Wings app may also provide location-specific event information.
Why is commercial UFC licensing so expensive?
Commercial licensing is expensive because it accounts for the potential lost revenue the UFC could experience if people watched the event at a bar instead of ordering it at home. The cost also factors in the venue’s capacity.
Are all Buffalo Wild Wings franchises owned by the same company?
No, Buffalo Wild Wings operates under a franchise model. This means individual owners manage many locations. These owners have some autonomy in deciding which events to show.
Can I use my UFC Fight Pass subscription to watch a fight at Buffalo Wild Wings?
No, UFC Fight Pass is intended for personal use. It generally does not include live PPV events. Buffalo Wild Wings needs a separate commercial license to legally show PPV UFC fights.
What other sports bars typically show UFC fights?
Many sports bars, both independent and chain, show UFC events. Popular options include chains like Dave & Buster’s and smaller, locally owned establishments with multiple TVs and a sports-focused atmosphere. It’s best to call ahead to confirm.
Do movie theaters ever show UFC fights?
Yes, some movie theaters broadcast select UFC fights on the big screen. Check your local theater listings or Fathom Events for potential UFC screenings.
What are the typical peak hours when UFC fights are shown at Buffalo Wild Wings?
UFC events typically take place on Saturday nights, starting around 10 PM ET. These are generally peak hours for sports bars, including Buffalo Wild Wings.
What if Buffalo Wild Wings is showing a different sporting event during a UFC fight?
Some Buffalo Wild Wings locations may prioritize other events, such as NFL, NBA, or MLB games. It’s best to call and inquire about their schedule in advance.
Is it legal for a Buffalo Wild Wings to show a UFC fight without a commercial license?
No, it is illegal for any business to show a UFC fight without a commercial license. Doing so violates copyright laws and could result in fines and legal action.
Does showing UFC fights affect the atmosphere at Buffalo Wild Wings?
Generally, showing UFC fights creates a more energetic and exciting atmosphere. It attracts a different crowd than a typical sports night, with more intense cheering and excitement.
Does the price of beer or wings increase during a UFC fight at Buffalo Wild Wings?
While prices may fluctuate based on specials and promotions, there is typically no specific price increase directly tied to showing a UFC fight. However, peak hours often mean higher demand, which can indirectly affect pricing.