Endeavor, the parent company of the UFC, is now the owner of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) in a huge deal that will change the sports entertainment landscape.
Endeavor CEO Ari Emmanuel had this to say in a press release following the acquisition:
“This is a rare opportunity to create a global live sports and entertainment pureplay built for where the industry is headed. For decades, Vince [McMahon] and his team have demonstrated an incredible track record of innovation and shareholder value creation, and we are confident that Endeavor can deliver significant additional value for shareholders by bringing UFC and WWE together.”
Emmanuel will carry over his CEO duties to the WWE, and serving as his Executive Chairman of the Board is none other than McMahon himself. Dana White will not have any duties within the WWE. Nick Khan will serve as WWE President.
However, it’s highly likely that White will take advantage of the WWE’s massive platform to promote UFC shows.
WWE purchase will result in crossovers with UFC stars
In the past, MMA stars have found new avenues of success in the squared circle. Brock Lesnar returned to the WWE after a stint as UFC heavyweight champion. The move resulted in him becomingone of the highest earners in the industry despite his limited appearances.
This could result in the UFC using WWE shows like Monday Night Raw and Smackdown to promote upcoming cards. Typical spots could be guest hosts, special referees, or backstage segments with active UFC fighters to hype upcoming fights.
That being said, expect a heavy amount of UFC advertisements on WWE airwaves.
After a wildly successful Wrestlemania 39, a new era is on hand for the WWE. What will be interesting to see is how these two companies rub off on each other in the months to come.
You can read Endeavor’s full press release HERE
