The UFC runs nearly 50 events a year—so naturally, some cards will shine brighter than others. Lately, however, fans and critics have been voicing concerns that the promotion's matchmaking has lost some of its luster. Whether it's Fight Night cards held at the intimate Meta APEX or events packed with newcomers from Dana White's Contender Series, the buzz around weaker lineups has grown louder, especially since the UFC launched its new broadcast deal with Paramount in January.

But don't expect TKO Group Holdings President and COO Mark Shapiro to wave the white flag. Speaking on a TKO financial call Wednesday, Shapiro pushed back hard against the notion that fight quality has slipped.

"Bottom line is we don't buy it," Shapiro said. "Let's start with this: the product is great. The brand has never been stronger. Our reach has never been greater. The foundational elements of UFC are set in concrete. Anyone who came to our last numbered event in Miami—UFC 327—was blown away. And our last Fight Night in Perth, Australia? A sellout. Even if you watched from home, you witnessed something extraordinary."

Shapiro emphasized that the UFC is always in "building mode," constantly scouting and developing the best up-and-coming talent from around the world. "We match them in the best fights," he added, framing the influx of fresh faces as a strength rather than a weakness.

According to Shapiro, this wave of young fighters is reshaping the rankings and injecting new energy into the sport. "There's a huge movement right now with all these young fighters coming up," he said. "Many are taking over top-10 spots from veterans who've held those positions for years. Strong personalities are busting through right now—guys like Joshua Van, Brazilian Carlos Prates, undefeated Michael Morales. This is the next generation."

He also pointed to the upcoming "White House card"—UFC Freedom 250—as a prime example of the promotion's depth. "It's stacked top to bottom," Shapiro said. "We've even added a fight to it. We're using that opportunity to feature one of our most promising stars."

So while some fans may be skeptical, the UFC's brass is betting big on its roster of rising talent. And with events like Freedom 250 on the horizon, they're confident the best is yet to come.