UFC broadcast partner shades former champs, World Cup final with a single social media post

UFC's broadcast partner Paramount+ took a playful shot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final by comparing it to one of the sport's most infamous title fights. Spain and Argentina played to a scoreless draw through regulation before Spain won 1–0 in extra time, with the European side dominating possession while Argentina offered little offensive threat. The slow, uneventful match prompted the UFC on Paramount+ social media account to post a side-by-side image of the World Cup final alongside the UFC 274 strawweight title rematch between Rose Namajunas and Carla Esparza, captioning it: "This World Cup final so far." Namajunas vs. Esparza 2, fought at UFC 274, is remembered as one of the most cautious and low-action title bouts in UFC history. Both fighters maintained extremely defensive postures throughout the five-round strawweight championship bout, with minimal striking output and a plodding pace that left fans frustrated. Esparza ultimately won via split decision, cementing the fight's reputation as a technical but thoroughly unentertaining affair. The comparison resonated widely, as many viewers had shared similar sentiments about the World Cup final's lack of excitement and competitive intensity.