Endeavor Confirms WWE-UFC Deal to Create a $21 Billion Sports Entertainment Company
variety.comPatrick Frater Asia Bureau Chief Endeavor Group Holdings and World Wrestling Entertainment said Monday that they had signed a definitive agreement to form a new, publicly listed company consisting of two complementary, global sports and entertainment brands: UFC and WWE.
The deal was reported to be close over the weekend by financial media CNBC and Bloomberg. Upon closing, Endeavor will hold a 51% controlling interest in the new company and existing WWE shareholders will hold a 49% interest. “Together, UFC and WWE will have global reach, impressive scale and omnichannel distribution,” Endeavor said in a statement.
The new company will be led by Ari Emanuel (CEO), who will also continue in his role as CEO of Endeavor, Vince McMahon (executive chairman of the board) and Mark Shapiro, who will be president and COO of both Endeavor and the new company.
Dana White will continue in his role as president of UFC and Nick Khan will serve as president of WWE. The board of directors will consist of 11 members who will be appointed at a later date, six of whom will be appointed by Endeavor and five by WWE.
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