In a thrilling turn of events for trading card enthusiasts and mixed martial arts (MMA) fans, the UFC trading card license is making its way back to Topps. Through a newly signed exclusive multi-year agreement with Fanatics Collectibles, Topps is reclaiming its position as the producer of UFC trading cards. This exciting collaboration was announced on Wednesday and marks a pivotal moment for UFC collectibles.
Previously, Topps held the UFC trading card license from 2009 to 2020, until Panini America took over for a brief three-year period. With the assistance of UFC’s licensing agent IMG, the deal was expertly negotiated, setting the stage for Topps to once again create sought-after UFC trading cards.
The anticipation is high for the first product to emerge from this renewed partnership – the 2024 Topps Chrome UFC. Fans can expect this highly anticipated release on February 28th. This reunion between Topps and UFC is projected to cater to the passionate fanbase, providing new and exciting ways for fans to engage with the sport and their favorite fighters through collectibles.
Tracey Bleczinski, Senior Vice President of UFC Global Consumer Products, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration. She highlighted the vibrant market for UFC collectibles, which is driven by the sport’s intense popularity and the presence of exceptional athletes. This renewed partnership with Topps and Fanatics aims to delve deeper into the hearts of UFC fans, offering them an expanded range of collectibles to cherish.
Mike Mahan, CEO of Fanatics Collectibles, echoed this excitement, recognizing the immense popularity of UFC trading cards among collectors. Fanatics Collectibles is committed to innovating and capturing the essence of the sport’s emerging stars through their trading cards. To enrich the collecting experience, Fanatics plans to leverage its Fanatics Live platform. The platform will offer athlete interviews and live card breaks featuring fighters as a way to deepen the connection between fans and their beloved athletes.
It’s worth noting that UFC and Fanatics already share a successful partnership in the realm of memorabilia and apparel. Fans can find a wide range of products both at UFC events and online through UFC Commerce. This latest deal with Topps under the Fanatics umbrella is set to further enhance the existing relationship. UFC enthusiasts can look forward to an even broader selection of memorabilia and collectibles to celebrate their passion for MMA.
With the return of Topps as the official UFC trading card producer, fans can expect high-quality cards featuring their favorite fighters and moments. The partnership with Fanatics Collectibles ensures that the UFC trading card line will receive innovative promotion and attention, making it an exciting time for collectors and fans alike.
In conclusion, the newly signed exclusive agreement between Topps and Fanatics Collectibles brings back Topps as the producer of UFC trading cards. This collaboration will serve the enthusiastic UFC fanbase, providing them with a plethora of new collectibles to engage with their beloved sport. The 2024 Topps Chrome UFC set is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey ahead for UFC trading cards and memorabilia.