In an exciting development for trading card enthusiasts and mixed martial arts fans, the UFC trading card license is making its way back to Topps. A newly minted exclusive multi-year agreement has been reached with Fanatics Collectibles, effectively reinstating Topps as the producer of UFC trading cards. This move comes after Panini America held the license for a brief three-year period, taking over from Topps in 2020.
The new deal, expertly negotiated with the help of UFC’s licensing agent IMG, marks a pivotal moment for UFC collectibles. The first product to emerge from this renewed partnership will be the highly anticipated 2024 Topps Chrome UFC, set for release on February 28th.
Tracey Bleczinski, the Senior Vice President of UFC Global Consumer Products, expressed her excitement about the reunion. She highlighted the vibrant market for UFC collectibles, fueled by the sport’s immense popularity and its roster of standout athletes. This collaboration is sure to cater to the fervent UFC fanbase, providing them with new avenues to engage with the sport and their favorite fighters through collectibles.
Fanatics Collectibles CEO Mike Mahan also shared in the enthusiasm, recognizing the popularity of UFC trading cards among collectors. He emphasized Fanatics Collectibles’ commitment to innovation and capturing the essence of the sport’s emerging stars through their trading cards. To further enhance the collecting experience, Fanatics Collectibles plans to leverage its Fanatics Live platform – a live breaking/commerce platform – to promote the UFC line. Athlete interviews and live card breaks featuring fighters will deepen the connection between fans and fighters, adding an exciting element to the collecting experience.
Furthermore, UFC and Fanatics already have a productive partnership in the world of memorabilia and apparel, with products available both at events and online through UFC Commerce. With the addition of Topps under the Fanatics umbrella, this relationship is expected to flourish even more. UFC enthusiasts can now enjoy an even broader selection of memorabilia and collectibles to celebrate their passion for mixed martial arts.
The reunion between Topps and the UFC trading card license represents a significant milestone in the collectibles world. Topps has a long history of producing quality trading cards, having previously held the position of UFC trading card producer from 2009 to 2020. With their expertise and experience, fans can expect top-notch designs and collectibles that capture the essence of the sport and its athletes.
With the resurgence of Topps as the producer of UFC trading cards, fans can look forward to an exciting future filled with innovative designs, exclusive releases, and a wide range of collectibles. Whether it’s showcasing their favorite fighters or discovering new emerging stars, the collaboration between Topps and Fanatics Collectibles promises to satisfy the cravings of UFC enthusiasts and collectors alike.
