The UFC Sells Itself For An Unprecedented Amount Of $4 Billion

In a deal announced on Monday, UFC president Dana White confirmed that the UFC has been sold for [...]

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In a deal announced on Monday, UFC president Dana White confirmed that the UFC has been sold for $4 billion. The staggering amount of money is the most expensive transaction for an organization in sports history, according to ESPN.

Talent Agency WME-IMG revealed that it will be partnering with Silver Lake Partners, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts and MSD Capital in order to take control over the mixed martial arts company.

"We've been fortunate over the years to represent UFC and a number of its remarkable athletes," WME-IMG co-CEOs Ari Emanuel and Patrick Whitesell mentioned in a statement. "It's been exciting to watch the organization's incredible growth over the last decade under the leadership of the Fertitta brothers, Dana White and their dedicated team. We're now committed to pursuing new opportunities for UFC and its talented athletes to ensure the sport's continued growth and success on a global scale."

Dana White has repeatedly denied the organization was for sale over the course of the past two months, but after the announcement was made, he told ESPN the sale was a bittersweet moment. White will stay on with the UFC and be given a stake in the new business. Also, he was confident that the fans of the UFC should not be concerned about the new direction and change of ownership. "Exact opposite," White stated. "Sport is going to the next level."

The Fertitta brothers bought the organization for $2 million back in 2000, and have now sold it for an unprecedented $4 billion. Fertitta said in a statement, "We're confident that the new ownership team of WME-IMG, with whom we've built a strong relationship over the last several years, is committed to accelerating UFC's global growth. Most importantly, our new owners share the same vision and passion for this organization and its athletes."

It is unclear at this time whether WME-IMG will continue to represent fighters, such as their high-profile talent in former bantamweight champion Rousey. As the company is the lead on the investment, it may present a conflict of interest.

Are you excited for this new direction for the UFC?

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