On the heels of Ariel Helwani claiming that the sale of the UFC was progressing on Tuesday, his MMA Fighting colleague Dave Meltzer has reported that the bidding period (for the UFC) is expected to end on or around June 16
in the $4 billion price range for 100 percent ownership.
Meltzer citing a source involved in the bidding first brought these figures to light in his Wrestling Observer Newsletter (subscription only) from May 30, aligning with Darren Rovells original report from several weeks prior. ESPN's sports business expert said the UFC was in advanced talks to sell the business on May 11, but had his findings swiftly rejected by UFC President Dana White.
The UFC is not for sale, White told the Las Vegas Review-Journal. The ESPN story is overblown. Darren Rovell is not a fan of facts.
White is one of the four owners of Zuffa LCC, the UFCs parent entity, holding a 9% stake. Station Casino executives Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta own 81% of the company, with Abu Dhabi-based Flash Entertainment laying claim to the remaining 10%.
If the sale is for all 100%, its unclear if White would remain with the company. Its hard to imagine the longtime UFC figurehead walking away from a brand he built from the ground up, and any buyer would likely want to keep him on for promotional purposes. With that said, the outspoken president has eluded to cutting ties in the event of a transfer of power.
The day we decide to sell, I probably dont want to do this anymore, White told NBC Sports Dan Patrick. Me and Fertitta brothers have been together a long time
wed probably all be looking to get out.
The Wanda Group, backed by Wang Jianlin Chinas wealthiest man, worth almost $35 billion, according to Forbes is the frontrunner, according to Rovell. The conglomerate has ramped up its business in the sports world over the past year, becoming a major sponsorship partner for both FIFA and FIBA and purchasing a 20% stake in La Liga powerhouse Atletico Madrid.