In a momentous turn of events for trading card enthusiasts and mixed martial arts fans, the UFC trading card license is making its way back to Topps. Through a recently signed exclusive multi-year agreement with Fanatics Collectibles, Topps will once again take the reins in producing UFC trading cards. This collaboration, facilitated by UFC’s licensing agent IMG, signifies a crucial milestone for UFC collectibles.
Fans can anticipate the release of the first product from this renewed partnership: the 2024 Topps Chrome UFC, scheduled to hit stores on February 28. This highly anticipated set is expected to capture the attention of collectors and MMA fans alike.
Tracey Bleczinski, Senior Vice President of UFC Global Consumer Products, expressed her excitement about the reunion with Topps. Bleczinski highlighted the fervent market for UFC collectibles, fueled by the intense popularity of the sport and its remarkable athletes. This partnership aims to cater to the passionate UFC fanbase, offering them new avenues to engage with the sport and their favorite fighters through collectibles.
Fanatics Collectibles, led by CEO Mike Mahan, shares in the enthusiasm for this collaboration. Mahan emphasized the immense popularity of UFC trading cards among collectors and Fanatics Collectibles’ commitment to capturing the essence of the sport’s emerging stars through their cards. Leveraging their Fanatics Live platform, a dynamic live breaking/commerce platform, Fanatics Collectibles plans to promote the UFC line by hosting athlete interviews and live card breaks featuring fighters. This innovative approach aims to deepen the connection between fans and fighters while enhancing the overall collecting experience.
Furthermore, the partnership between UFC and Fanatics already thrives in the realm of memorabilia and apparel. Fans can find a wide selection of UFC products, both at events and online through UFC Commerce. With the inclusion of Topps under the Fanatics umbrella, this new deal is set to further enrich the existing relationship. UFC enthusiasts will have access to an even broader spectrum of memorabilia and collectibles, allowing them to celebrate their passion for mixed martial arts to the fullest.
The return of Topps to the UFC trading card market signifies a resurgence of interest in the hobby. Topps, a seasoned veteran in the trading card industry, previously held the UFC license from 2009 to 2020. Panini America took over for a brief three-year period before this triumphant reunion with Topps. The return of the industry heavyweight is expected to bring renewed enthusiasm to the world of UFC collecting.
With Topps back in the driver’s seat, fans can look forward to innovative designs, high-quality cardstock, and exciting new inserts featuring their favorite UFC fighters. Topps has a rich history of producing sought-after trading cards, and this revival promises to continue that tradition. The partnership with Fanatics Collectibles only enhances the potential for outstanding UFC trading card sets in the future.
In conclusion, the UFC trading card license is making its way back to Topps through a groundbreaking partnership with Fanatics Collectibles. This collaboration not only brings Topps back to the forefront of the UFC trading card market but also opens up new possibilities for engagement between fans and fighters. With the highly anticipated release of the 2024 Topps Chrome UFC set on the horizon, collectors and MMA fans have much to be excited about. Get ready to embrace the thrill of the octagon with these incredible trading cards!
