UFC Sold For $4bn To Wme-img Group
A group headed by WME-IMG agency has agreed a deal with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) for around $4bn, according to president of the brand Dana White.
The sale of the mixed martial arts series has been reported in news outlets for a number of months, with White – who had 9% of the company – confirming the deal to the Associated Press news agency. It’s also reported that he will stay on to run the series, but have a smaller ownership stake.
UFC’s owners Frank Fertitta and Lorenzo Fertitta originally purchased the sports network for $2m in 2001 and own 80% of the company under their parent company Zuffa, but will still have a minority interest following the sale.
“I’m obviously bummed about not being in business with my best friend [Lorenzo Fertitta] and my partners of 20 years,” White said. “I am happy about the future of the UFC, the sport and my role moving forward.”
It was also reported that the WME-IMG group also included private equity firms Silver Lake and Kohlberg Kravis Roberts, and an investment company owned by Dell Computers founder Michael Dell.
The $4bn sum to be paid for UFC is expected to be the largest in sports history.
With WME-IMG in the lead on the investment, it is as yet unconfirmed whether the agency will still represent fighters. It currently represents one of the most high-profile talents in former bantamweight champion Rousey.
An official announcement is expected on Monday.
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