UFC sold for $4 billion, Dana White says ‘Sport is going to the next level’

Late Sunday night, news of the sale of the UFC emerged once again and this time UFC President Dana White has acknowledged that the sale has taken place.

KLAS reported that the new owners of the UFC include “WME (William Morris Endeavor), the internationally known talent agency, IMG (International Management Group) a global sports and entertainment company based in New York, and MSD, a private equity group headed by Michael Dell. Also involved as a strategic partner is KKR, a global investment firm.” 80% owners of the UFC, Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta bought the UFC for $2 million and will still own a small percentage along with the new group.

From KLAS:

“According to persons familiar with the deal, Lorenzo Fertitta will remain as chairman of UFC for 6-8 weeks during the transition but will step down after that. UFC president Dana White, who currently owns 9% of the organization, will continue in his role with UFC and will have a smaller ownership stake.”

White told ESPN on Sunday that no one should be worried about the sale. “Exact opposite,” White said. “Sport is going to the next level.” White added that he is “just doing it without my best friend and partners for 20 years.”