Looks like Spike TV is serious about its commitment to combat sports.
After severing ties with Ultimate Fighting Championship back in early 2011, the cable television network set its sights on the Bellator promotion, which currently streams on SpikeTV.com before it moves to the airwaves in 2013.
And K-1 will be joining it.
Spike TV has announced a partnership with the world's premier kickboxing organization beginning Sat., Sept. 8, 2012 at the U.S. World Grand Prix Championships in Los Angeles, California. Additional events will run on the network's official website prior to its transition to television in 2013.
From K-1 CEO Doug Kaplan:
"K-1 is excited to join forces with Spike TV, a powerful and highly experienced cable network known nationally for its combat sports programming, presenting our live K-1 events. Spike is perfect television home and stage to introduce our K-1 warriors and the fast-paced, aggressive style of K-1 fighting to fight fans across America."
Spike.com's 2012 coverage will encompass the four remaining K-1 events, including a live stream of the weigh-ins, in addition to locker room interviews and live video feed of the prelims.
The four K-1 events in 2012 are:
September 8 - Los Angeles - U.S. Grand Prix Championship
October 14 - Tokyo, Japan - World Grand Prix Final
December 8 - Athens, Greece - MAX Final
December 26 - New York - World Grand Prix Final
From Jon Slusser, Senior Vice President, Sports and Multiplatform Events, Spike TV:
"We are thrilled to be in business with the world's preeminent kickboxing organization. Spike has the most passionate and knowledgeable fans of combat sports and we are confident that they will enjoy the high-action of K-1, which serves as the perfect complement to our Bellator coverage next year."
For more on Spike TV's deal with Bellator click here.
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