In an exciting development for UFC fans and trading card enthusiasts, the license for UFC trading cards is making its way back to Topps. A new exclusive multi-year agreement with Fanatics Collectibles has been forged, officially reinstating Topps as the producer of UFC trading cards. This move comes after a brief three-year period in which Panini America held the license.
The collaboration between Topps and Fanatics Collectibles was facilitated with the help of UFC’s licensing agent IMG. This groundbreaking agreement is set to shape the future of UFC collectibles. The first product to emerge from this renewed partnership will be the highly anticipated 2024 Topps Chrome UFC, scheduled for release on February 28.
Tracey Bleczinski, Senior Vice President of UFC Global Consumer Products, expressed her excitement about the reunion, highlighting the thriving market for UFC collectibles driven by the sport’s immense popularity and its incredible athletes. This new partnership aims to cater to the passionate UFC fanbase, providing them with fresh ways to engage with the sport and their favorite fighters through collectibles.
Fanatics Collectibles CEO, Mike Mahan, also shared his enthusiasm, emphasizing the widespread popularity of UFC trading cards among collectors. Fanatics Collectibles is dedicated to innovating and capturing the essence of the sport’s rising stars through their trading cards. To promote the UFC trading card line, Fanatics Collectibles plans to leverage its Fanatics Live platform, known for its live breaking/commerce events, by featuring athlete interviews and live card breaks with fighters. This initiative seeks to deepen the connection between fans and fighters, creating an enriched collecting experience.
Furthermore, UFC and Fanatics already enjoy a successful relationship in the realm of memorabilia and apparel. Products from this partnership are available both at events and online through UFC Commerce. The addition of Topps under the Fanatics umbrella is poised to enhance this existing relationship, offering UFC enthusiasts an even broader selection of memorabilia and collectibles to celebrate their passion for mixed martial arts.
This new deal between Topps and Fanatics Collectibles marks a significant milestone in the world of UFC collectibles. With Topps once again at the helm, fans can look forward to the continuation of high-quality trading cards that showcase their favorite fighters and moments. The anticipation for the 2024 Topps Chrome UFC release is palpable, as collectors eagerly await the card set that will kickstart this exciting new era in UFC trading cards.
In conclusion, the reunion between Topps and UFC, forged through the partnership with Fanatics Collectibles, presents a thrilling prospect for both fans and collectors. The future of UFC trading cards looks brighter than ever, with Topps back in the game and fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming releases that will capture the heart and soul of mixed martial arts.
