Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
WWE AND THE company that runs Ultimate Fighting Championship have announced plans to combine to create a $21.4 billion sports entertainment company.
A new publicly traded company will be formed that houses the UFC and WWE brands.
Rumours had been swirling about who would be interested in buying WWE, with companies such as Endeavor, Disney, Fox, Comcast, Amazon and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund the subject of speculation.
Industry experts had viewed WWE as an attractive acquisition target due to its global reach, loyal fanbase, and extensive social media presence.
It surpassed 16 billion social video views in the final quarter of last year, with nearly 94 million YouTube subscribers and more than 20 million followers on TikTok.
Its female wrestlers comprise five out of the top 15 most followed female athletes in the world across Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, led by Ronda Rousey with 36.1 million followers.
WWE had more than 7.5 billion digital and social media views in January and February of this year, up 15% from the same time frame a year ago.
Once the deal is complete, Endeavor Group Holdings will hold a 51% controlling interest in the new company and existing WWE shareholders will hold a 49% stake.
The new business will be led by Endeavor chief executive Ari Emanuel, who will also remain as head of Endeavor.
Vince McMahon, executive chairman at WWE, will serve in the same role at the new company.
The announcement comes after McMahon, the founder and majority shareholder of WWE, returned to the company in January and said that it could be up for sale.
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
Ah yes, the ‘martial arts powerhouse’ that is the WWE
3 Irish in wrestlemania matches over the weekend, good for them. The fact Vince turned a roadshow into a 10 billion dollar company is something else. Also crazy when 99% of the entertainment would get you cancelled today
Conor McGregor to WWE confirmed.
@Maggie Barcoe: he is too small. Confirmed.
Politicians in Ireland and all over the world cry foul about the level of social media criticism but any observation of how politicians of all parties and none behave and act is truly shocking. All are only interested in power and will walk on anyone to get their hands on power.
@Tim Brennan: absolutely agree with you Tim. I think what you’re saying is that the UFC fighters should start to fight the WWE guys, but with one hand behind their backs…great comment on this article. So articulate and on point. Thanks.
Vince bought the then WWF for 1 million dollars and sold it for nine million dollars
That’s some profit there boyo
UFC as a brand and promotion has looked more and more like WWE in recent years…. Time to check out!! One championship and Glory kickboxing is far more exciting and entertaining if nowhere near as popular… If you’re looking for good fights, go there!
Martial Arts powerhouses
What a joke.
have your say