Lorenzo (left), Dana (center) and Frank (right), the UFC's top brass. Photo: Disclosure
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Now it's official. This Monday morning (11), the UFC confirmed its sale to WME-IMG, an investment group in the sports and entertainment sector, which will take control of the fight organization with immediate effect.
The transaction values have not been confirmed, but reports in the North American press indicate something around US$4 billion (at current prices, R$13 billion). In addition to WME-IMG, the following companies are also part of the deal: Silver Lake Partners (investor in Skype and Dell and KKR as strategic investors, in addition to MSD Capital, LP and MSD Partners.
“It has been exciting to see the organization experience incredible growth over the past decade under the leadership of the Fertitta brothers, Dana White and their dedicated team. Now, we are committed to seeking new opportunities for the UFC and its talented athletes to ensure their growth and success on a global scale,” said Ariel Emanuel, executive director of the WME-IMG group.
The UFC was, since 2001, owned by ZUFFA, formed by brothers Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta, Dana White and an Arab investment group. Of these, only White is expected to remain in daily roles, remaining the president of the organization. However, the Fertitta brothers will continue to be involved in the business as minority partners.
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