Network TV Update: Negotiations Continue with CBS, NBC; Spanish Language Stations Interested As Well

Despite seeming assurances by Dana White to the contrary, sources close to the situation continue to tell MMAPayout.com that negotiations between the UFC and CBS have stalled as reported last month. The impasse is widely believed to be creative control, which the company continues to refuse to relinquish. A potential deal with HBO fell apart over similar concerns late last year. CBS announced three new series today with no mention of the UFC.

In light of the impasse, the UFC has reportedly reached out to NBC as late as last week. The reception was reportedly cold with the peacock network having little interest in working with the UFC and particularly Dana White. NBC does not appear interested in prime time programming, making the UFC a poor fit in addition to any concerns they might have about White. The UFC attempted a similar leverage play during stalled negotiations with HBO by approaching Showtime.

NBC continues to talk with a number of players about late night time slots, including the IFL, Strikeforce, M-1, and K-1. Speculation within the industry suggests that Strikeforce, with financial backing from the owners of Hewlett-Packard, may have already came to terms with the network, however, such a deal would not preclude other promotions involvement.

The latest potential entrants into the MMA sweeps race are reportedly Univision and Telemundo. Univision is rumored to be courting the UFC, with interest in doing live specials, despite the company's current affiliation with FOX Sports.