Stories from around New Zealand and the World

Something a bit different to kick things off today - we're going to talk about the UFC, or Ultimate Fighting Championship. UFC is the largest Mixed Martial Arts promotion in the world, and in a relatively short time, it's become a multi-billion-dollar global enterprise. This week they added another feather to their cap, signing a multi-billion dollar deal with Paramount for exclusive broadcasting rights in the US. This news may cause some to wonder why MMA - which is undoubtedly among the most violent sports - continues to surge in popularity? Many fighters have suffered permanent brain damage and there have been at least seven recorded fatalities. Jesse spoke to Mike Angove, New Zealand's leading combat sports commentator and former world kickboxing champion.