In a thrilling turn of events for both trading card aficionados and mixed martial arts fans, the UFC trading card license is making its way back to Topps. Fanatics Collectibles, in a newly minted exclusive multi-year agreement, has facilitated the transition, re-establishing Topps as the producer of UFC trading cards. Topps previously held this position from 2009 to 2020, before Panini America temporarily took charge for three years.
This groundbreaking deal, expertly negotiated with the assistance of UFC’s licensing agent IMG, signifies a pivotal moment for 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, emphasizing the robust market for UFC collectibles, driven by the sport’s immense popularity and its exceptional athletes. With this collaboration, UFC fans will have new avenues to engage with the sport and their favorite fighters through collectibles.
Mike Mahan, CEO of Fanatics Collectibles, shared in the enthusiasm, highlighting the popularity of UFC trading cards among collectors and the company’s commitment to innovation. Mahan emphasized their goal of capturing the essence of the sport’s emerging stars through their trading cards. Fanatics Collectibles plans to leverage its Fanatics Live platform, a live breaking/commerce platform, to promote the UFC line. They aim to do so through athlete interviews and live card breaks featuring fighters, enhancing the connection between fans and fighters and enriching the collecting experience.
Furthermore, UFC and Fanatics already have a fruitful partnership in the realm of memorabilia and apparel. Their products are available both at events and online through UFC Commerce. With this new deal and Topps under the Fanatics umbrella, the existing relationship is set to flourish. UFC enthusiasts can look forward to an even wider selection of memorabilia and collectibles to celebrate their passion for mixed martial arts.
The return of Topps to the UFC trading card scene has generated immense excitement among fans and collectors. As the premier producer of sports trading cards, Topps brings its expertise and renowned quality to the world of UFC collectibles once again. Their previous tenure as the UFC trading card licensee established Topps as a trusted and beloved brand among fans.
The upcoming 2024 Topps Chrome UFC set is expected to be an instant hit. Fans can anticipate stunning card designs, featuring their favorite fighters in all their glory. The vibrant and dynamic artwork will capture the essence of the sport, offering collectors a tangible piece of the UFC’s thrilling action.
With this exciting announcement, the prospect of UFC trading cards reentering the market under the Topps and Fanatics Collectibles collaboration has left fans eagerly counting down the days. The renewed partnership promises to elevate the UFC collectibles experience, providing fans with new and innovative ways to connect with the sport and their favorite fighters.
In conclusion, the return of Topps as the producer of UFC trading cards in a new deal with Fanatics Collectibles has ignited anticipation among UFC enthusiasts and collectors alike. This collaboration is poised to enhance the market for UFC collectibles and deepen the connection between fans, fighters, and the sport they love. The 2024 Topps Chrome UFC release is set to be a momentous occasion, showcasing the brilliance of the UFC’s athletes and celebrating the excitement of mixed martial arts in a whole new way.
