Lorenzo (left), Dana (center) and Frank (right), the UFC's top brass. Photo: Disclosure
Last month, the news that the UFC could be sold to a Chinese investment group for an exorbitant sum shook up MMA behind-the-scenes, but the buzz surrounding the issue dissipated over time. Now, rumors about the negotiation for the sale of Ultimate have gained strength again and the figures are already approaching US$4 billion (around R$14 billion, according to the price).
According to journalist Jonathan Snowden, from the North American website “Bleacher Report”, various information about the negotiation has been circulating from sources linked to the UFC, all of which indicate that a Chinese group would buy the organization. However, Snowden pointed out that the discrepancy in some facts in the stories could indicate that this is the UFC “hunting the traitor” – as a result of the leak about the hiring of Brock Lesnar, which generated controversy and even the banning of a journalist by the organization.
Other rumors suggest that the company “William Morris Endeavor”, a famous Hollywood talent agency, would be mediating the negotiation. Current president Dana White would receive 10% of the amount, US$400 million (R$1,4 billion), but would continue to lead the organization. Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta, owners of the event, would step down and sell majority control to the Chinese.
Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta, through ZUFFA, bought the UFC at the beginning of the last decade, in 2001. Since then, the company has had exponential growth in revenue and has become one of the most profitable sports brands on the planet, with an increase in its market cap from $1 million to billions.
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