In an exciting development for trading card enthusiasts and mixed martial arts fans, Topps has regained control of the UFC trading card license. Thanks to a newly established partnership with Fanatics Collectibles, Topps will once again be producing UFC trading cards, a position it held from 2009 to 2020 before briefly being taken over by Panini America.
The collaboration, which was announced on Wednesday and facilitated with the help of UFC’s licensing agent IMG, marks a significant moment for the world of UFC collectibles. The first product to be released under this renewed partnership will be the highly anticipated 2024 Topps Chrome UFC, set to hit the shelves on February 28.
Tracey Bleczinski, Senior Vice President of UFC Global Consumer Products, expressed her enthusiasm about the reunion, emphasizing the thriving market for UFC collectibles. With the sport’s intense popularity and a roster filled with standout athletes, Bleczinski highlighted the partnership’s ability to cater to the passionate UFC fanbase, providing them with new ways to engage with the sport and their favorite fighters through collectibles.
Mike Mahan, CEO of Fanatics Collectibles, shared in the excitement, underscoring the popularity of UFC trading cards among collectors. Mahan also expressed his company’s commitment to innovation and capturing the essence of the sport’s emerging stars through their trading cards. Leveraging their Fanatics Live platform, a live breaking/commerce platform, Fanatics Collectibles plans to promote the UFC line through athlete interviews and live card breaks featuring fighters. This initiative aims to deepen the connection between fans and fighters, enhancing the overall collecting experience.
Additionally, the partnership between UFC and Fanatics already extends to the realm of memorabilia and apparel, with products available both at events and through UFC Commerce’s online store. This new deal with Topps under the Fanatics umbrella is poised to strengthen and expand the existing relationship, offering UFC enthusiasts an even broader selection of memorabilia and collectibles to celebrate their passion for mixed martial arts.
The return of Topps as the exclusive producer of UFC trading cards is set to reignite the excitement and anticipation among collectors and fans. Topps has a long-standing history in the trading card industry and is known for its commitment to quality and authenticity. With Fanatics Collectibles’ track record of success and their dedication to capturing the essence of the sport, this collaboration promises to deliver exceptional collectibles that will be highly sought after by fans and collectors alike.
The 2024 Topps Chrome UFC set is certain to be a must-have for any UFC trading card enthusiast. Packed with dynamic designs, stunning photography, and featuring the biggest names in the sport, this release will mark a new chapter in the UFC trading card landscape. As the partnership between Topps, Fanatics Collectibles, and UFC continues to evolve, fans can expect an array of innovative and captivating collectibles that showcase the passion and excitement of mixed martial arts.
In conclusion, Topps reclaiming the UFC trading card license in collaboration with Fanatics Collectibles is a significant development for the world of UFC collectibles. With their combined expertise and dedication to capturing the essence of the sport, fans can look forward to an exciting array of UFC trading cards and collectibles in the coming years. Get ready to engage in the ultimate UFC collecting experience!
