Britain's leading mixed martial arts organisation Ultimate Challenge UK has agreed a deal with Sky Sports to broadcast their events in East London

Britain's leading mixed martial arts organisation Ultimate Challenge UK has stolen a march on UFC after signing a deal with Sky Sports to broadcast their events in East London.

Sky was one of six channels in talks to screen UFC following the collapse of Setanta Sports.

But the TV giant has snubbed the world's leading MMA brand in favour of a deal with UCUK, who stage cage fighting shows at the Troxy, Stepney.

Coverage from the East End venue began this week with highlights of last weekend's Heat show at the Troxy, which featured a headline bout between rising stars Brad Wheeler and Dino Gambetesa.

And Sky will show further UCUK shows this year, beginning with the Payback show on August 22.

UCUK founder Dave O'Donnell, who previously established Cage Rage in Britain, said: "We're back on Sky Sports and it's the way forward for us.

"There's a global explosion of interest in MMA and our events deliver what the fans demand - world-class match-ups, an electric atmosphere and the chance to showcase the UK's finest MMA talent.

"We're looking forward to working with Sky Sports to make sure the world's fastest-growing sport reaches the widest possible audience."

For more details on UCUK, visit www.ucuk.tv.