Do you really think it's dying? I've heard that from a few people as of late and I'm not familiar with the financial issues you mentioned.
I'm not a hardcore fan, but I really enjoy watching it. I'm of the opinion if you traveled back in time 2000 yrs you would find very similar events taking place in coliseums all over the Roman empire. I think humans are predisposed to enjoying such entertainment. I also really like how refined the fighters have become. 5 years ago you had wrestlers and punchers and whatever other styles existed. Now you don't make it unless you do it all. The fighters are well rounded....sorta like a UCONN basketball player.