The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has evolved into a global powerhouse in mixed martial arts (MMA). Understanding who owns UFC reveals a complex history of acquisitions and mergers that have shaped its current structure.
History of UFC
Founded in 1993, the UFC introduced a platform for fighters of various disciplines to compete under a unified set of rules.
Initially owned by Semaphore Entertainment Group (SEG), the organization faced financial struggles in the late 1990s.
In 2001, Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta along with Dana White acquired the UFC through their company, Zuffa, LLC, for $2 million. This acquisition marked a turning point leading to significant growth and mainstream acceptance of MMA.
In 2016, Zuffa sold the UFC to a consortium led by Endeavor (formerly WME–IMG) for $4.025 billion ushering in a new era of ownership.
Who Owns UFC?
As of September 2025, the UFC operates under TKO Group Holdings, a media conglomerate formed by the merger of Endeavor’s UFC and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).
Endeavor holds a 61% controlling interest in TKO Group Holdings while former WWE shareholders retain a 39% stake.
- Endeavor Group Holdings (61%): A global entertainment, sports, and content company that manages a diverse portfolio of businesses.
- Former WWE Shareholders (39%): This group includes various institutional and individual investors who previously held shares in WWE.
Major UFC Shareholders
Understanding the shareholders of TKO Group Holdings provides insight into the entities and individuals who have a stake in the UFC:
| Shareholder | Ownership Percentage | Number of Shares | Role & Influence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vincent K. McMahon | 9.84% | 8,021,405 | Former WWE CEO; retains significant influence in TKO’s strategic direction. |
| BlackRock, Inc. | 8.25% | 6,728,119 | Largest asset manager; investment signals institutional confidence. |
| The Vanguard Group, Inc. | 8.19% | 6,681,087 | Major asset manager; supports long-term value creation. |
| Endeavor Group Holdings, Inc. | 5.4% | 4,404,467 | Major stakeholder; controls UFC’s management through TKO. |
| Ninety One UK Limited | 5.18% | 4,220,724 | Investment firm with a focus on long-term growth potential. |
| Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc. | 4.48% | 3,652,281 | Key institutional investor; indicates confidence in TKO’s future. |
| Lindsell Train Limited | 4.46% | 3,633,367 | Specialized investment firm; supports sports and media industries. |
| Independent Franchise Partners, LLP | 4.18% | 3,409,140 | Investment firm with an interest in media and entertainment. |
| Darlington Partners Capital Management, LP | 3.36% | 2,740,089 | Hedge fund that sees TKO as a strong growth asset. |
| XN LP | 3.22% | 2,628,224 | Institutional investor betting on UFC’s market expansion. |
Vincent K. McMahon (9.84%)
Vincent K. McMahon, the former chairman and CEO of WWE, holds approximately 8,021,405 shares in TKO Group Holdings, representing 9.84% ownership. His involvement in TKO stems from the WWE merger, where he played a key role in bringing the two entertainment giants together. McMahon’s influence in the company remains strong despite stepping back from WWE’s direct operations, ensuring that his interests align with the long-term success of TKO and UFC.
BlackRock, Inc. (8.25%)
BlackRock Inc., one of the world’s largest asset management firms, owns about 6,728,119 shares, equating to an 8.25% stake in TKO Group Holdings. BlackRock is known for its extensive investments across multiple industries, and its stake in TKO signifies confidence in the growing value of the sports and entertainment industry. The company’s investment strategy typically involves long-term value appreciation, making it a significant institutional investor in TKO.
The Vanguard Group, Inc. (8.19%)
The Vanguard Group, Inc., another leading asset manager, holds approximately 6,681,087 shares, representing an 8.19% ownership in TKO Group Holdings. Vanguard primarily invests in companies with strong growth potential, and its stake in TKO highlights the firm’s belief in the company’s ability to generate sustained revenue from live events, pay-per-view fights, and media rights.
Endeavor Group Holdings, Inc. (5.4%)
Endeavor Group Holdings, Inc. possesses about 4,404,467 shares, accounting for a 5.4% stake in TKO Group Holdings. Endeavor originally acquired the UFC in 2016 and was instrumental in shaping its global reach. As a stakeholder, Endeavor continues to have a vested interest in the company’s future, particularly in leveraging UFC’s commercial potential through media deals and sponsorships.
Ninety One UK Limited (5.18%)
Ninety One UK Limited holds approximately 4,220,724 shares, translating to a 5.18% ownership in TKO Group Holdings. This asset management firm focuses on global investments, and its stake in TKO reflects its confidence in the revenue-generating capabilities of both UFC and WWE, especially in the international market.
Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc. (4.48%)
Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc. owns about 3,652,281 shares, representing a 4.48% stake in TKO Group Holdings. As a major financial institution, Morgan Stanley’s investment indicates institutional confidence in the company’s future earnings potential, driven by strong brand recognition and a loyal fanbase.
Lindsell Train Limited (4.46%)
Lindsell Train Limited holds approximately 3,633,367 shares, equating to a 4.46% ownership in TKO Group Holdings. The firm specializes in long-term investments in companies with durable competitive advantages. Its stake in TKO suggests it sees UFC as a premier sports brand with stable revenue from broadcast deals, merchandising, and ticket sales.
Independent Franchise Partners, LLP (4.18%)
Independent Franchise Partners, LLP owns about 3,409,140 shares, representing a 4.18% stake in TKO Group Holdings. The firm focuses on sustainable growth investments and is likely betting on UFC’s continued expansion into emerging markets and digital streaming platforms.
Darlington Partners Capital Management, LP (3.36%)
Darlington Partners Capital Management, LP holds approximately 2,740,089 shares, translating to a 3.36% ownership in TKO Group Holdings. This firm specializes in strategic investments in high-performing companies, and its involvement suggests strong confidence in UFC’s profitability and global reach.
XN LP (3.22%)
XN LP owns about 2,628,224 shares, representing a 3.22% stake in TKO Group Holdings. As an investment firm, XN LP’s interest in TKO highlights the belief in UFC’s ability to generate substantial revenue through its pay-per-view model and growing media rights deals.
Who Controls UFC?
Operational control of the UFC remains with Dana White, who continues to serve as the organization’s president and CEO. Under the TKO Group Holdings structure, Ari Emanuel, CEO of Endeavor, assumes the role of CEO and executive chairman, while Mark Shapiro serves as president and COO.
CEO of TKO Group Holdings – Ariel Emanuel
Ariel Emanuel serves as the CEO of TKO Group Holdings and plays a crucial role in overseeing the UFC’s operations. As the head of the parent company, he is responsible for setting the overall strategic vision and ensuring UFC’s continued global expansion. His leadership in Endeavor before the merger brought UFC to new heights, securing lucrative broadcasting and sponsorship deals.
President and COO of UFC – Lawrence Epstein
Lawrence Epstein is the Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of UFC. He oversees UFC’s business operations, including event planning, media negotiations, and regulatory affairs. His extensive experience ensures smooth operations and regulatory compliance, making him a key decision-maker in UFC’s daily management.
UFC CEO – Dana White
Dana White remains the face of the UFC as its CEO. Having played a pivotal role in UFC’s rise to global prominence, he continues to influence major business decisions, event planning, and fighter relations. While he does not own the company, his control over the brand’s image, fight cards, and expansion strategy keeps him an essential leader in the organization.
Annual Revenue and Net Worth of UFC
In 2024, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) achieved record-breaking financial performance. The organization generated $1.406 billion in revenue, marking a significant increase from previous years. This growth was driven by successful pay-per-view events, expanded media rights deals, and a growing global fan base.
The UFC’s parent company, TKO Group Holdings, reported total revenues of $2.804 billion for fiscal year 2024, with the UFC contributing $1.406 billion and WWE adding $1.398 billion. This 67% year-over-year increase underscores the combined strength of these organizations in the sports entertainment industry.
As of March 2025, the UFC’s valuation has risen to approximately $11.3 billion, reflecting its robust financial health and market position. This valuation is supported by ongoing negotiations for broadcasting rights, with major platforms like Amazon, Apple TV, and Netflix expressing interest. These developments indicate a promising financial trajectory for the UFC in the coming years.
UFC Market Share and Competitors
The UFC dominates the mixed martial arts (MMA) industry, holding an estimated 90% market share in global MMA revenue. Its dominance comes from exclusive broadcasting rights, high-profile fighters, and a strong pay-per-view (PPV) model. However, several organizations compete with the UFC by attracting fighters, hosting major events, and expanding their presence internationally.
Bellator MMA
Bellator MMA is one of the biggest competitors to the UFC. Owned by the Professional Fighters League (PFL) after its acquisition from Paramount Global, Bellator hosts high-level fighters and tournaments. While it lacks the UFC’s mainstream appeal, Bellator focuses on global expansion and talent development. The organization has secured broadcasting deals and continues to grow, but its market share remains below 5%.
Professional Fighters League (PFL)
The PFL differentiates itself with a unique season-based format, unlike the UFC’s traditional matchmaking system. Fighters compete in a league, earning points and progressing to playoffs and championships. The PFL has gained traction with major investors, lucrative sponsorships, and media deals with ESPN. By signing high-profile athletes like Francis Ngannou, the PFL is positioning itself as a strong alternative, but its market share is still under 3%.
ONE Championship
Based in Singapore, ONE Championship focuses on MMA, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. It dominates the Asian market and boasts a strong digital presence. Unlike the UFC, which relies heavily on PPV sales, ONE Championship streams many events for free to maximize audience reach. While it competes in international markets, its market share is estimated at around 2-3%.
Rizin Fighting Federation
Rizin is Japan’s leading MMA promotion, blending traditional MMA with spectacle-driven events. It attracts former UFC and PRIDE fighters, offering a different entertainment experience. Rizin’s market is mostly confined to Japan, with a global share of approximately 1-2%.
Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC)
BKFC is not a direct MMA competitor but is gaining popularity in combat sports. It focuses on bare-knuckle boxing, attracting ex-UFC fighters looking for new opportunities. While it has a niche audience, it does not threaten the UFC’s dominance in MMA.
Brands Owned by UFC
The UFC operates under its parent company, TKO Group Holdings, and has expanded its influence through various subsidiaries, partnerships, and related brands. These brands help the UFC diversify its revenue streams, extend its market reach, and enhance its overall brand value.
UFC Fight Pass
UFC Fight Pass is the UFC’s official streaming service, offering live events, exclusive fight libraries, and original content. It features fights from other promotions such as LFA, Cage Warriors, and Polaris. Fight Pass provides fans with access to classic fights, behind-the-scenes footage, and emerging MMA talent.
Dana White’s Contender Series (DWCS)
Launched in 2017, Dana White’s Contender Series is a scouting platform where fighters compete for UFC contracts. The show has produced top UFC talents like Sean O’Malley and Jamahal Hill. Unlike The Ultimate Fighter, which focuses on house-based reality drama, DWCS strictly showcases in-cage performances to determine UFC-worthy fighters.
The Ultimate Fighter (TUF)
The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) is a long-running reality TV series that has played a crucial role in the UFC’s expansion. The show features up-and-coming fighters living and training together while competing for a UFC contract. Many former TUF winners have become UFC champions, making it a key development tool for new talent.
Power Slap League
Power Slap is a controversial slap-fighting promotion launched by Dana White in 2023. It follows UFC-style production with rankings, events, and structured competition. Despite criticism for its safety concerns, Power Slap has gained a following on social media and UFC Fight Pass.
UFC Performance Institute
The UFC Performance Institute (PI) is a world-class training facility designed to enhance fighter performance. Located in Las Vegas (with a second location in China), the PI provides fighters with cutting-edge sports science, nutrition plans, injury rehab, and training programs. Many UFC athletes use the facility to prepare for their fights.
UFC Gym
UFC Gym is the UFC’s global fitness brand, offering gym memberships, MMA training programs, and fitness classes. With locations worldwide, UFC Gym allows fans and athletes to train using UFC-inspired methods. It has become a strong revenue stream for the UFC outside of fight promotions.
Conclusion
The UFC’s ownership has evolved through strategic acquisitions and mergers, leading to its current position under TKO Group Holdings. With Endeavor as the majority shareholder and Dana White at the helm, the UFC continues to thrive as a leader in the MMA industry.
FAQs
Who founded the UFC?
The UFC was founded in 1993 by Art Davie and Rorion Gracie, aiming to determine the most effective martial art in real combat situations.
How did Endeavor acquire the UFC?
In 2016, Endeavor, then known as WME–IMG, led a consortium to purchase the UFC from Zuffa, LLC, for $4.025 billion.
What is TKO Group Holdings?
TKO Group Holdings is a media conglomerate formed in 2023 through the merger of the UFC and WWE, with Endeavor holding a 61% controlling interest.
Does Dana White own a stake in the UFC?
Dana White holds a minority ownership stake in the UFC and continues to serve as its president and CEO.
What is the UFC’s annual revenue?
In 2023, the UFC reported revenues of approximately $1.29 billion.