UFC's Parent Company Acquires WWE For $9.3 Billion, Blurring The Lines Between Sport & Entertainment

The UFC has toted the line of sport and entertainment, in recent years.

UFC superstar, Conor McGregor (left), WWE superstar, Roman Reigns (right).Photo byMichelle Chapman | The Associated Press

And, as of April 3rd, 2023, the UFC and WWE are now siblings. UFC's parent company, Endeavour, acquired the WWE at a valuation of $9.3 billion, bringing its total valuation up to $21 billion.

Although the 2 companies have worked in tandem in the past, with WWE Superstar, Brock Lesnar, crossing over to become one of the UFC's biggest stars and even champion, in the 2010s, they offer different products.

Over the UFC's short history, President Dana White, has worked hard to move away from MMA's barbaric roots to create a cleaner public image -- to be recognized as a professional sporting league, like the NBA, NFL, or MLB.

So, upon the release of Endeavour's new acquisition, he was not too pleased to hear comparisons to the world of sports entertainment from MMA media. During a press conference for UFC 287, Dave Schmulenson, otherwise known as "The Schmo" asked UFC fighter, Kevin Holland,

"Past or present, you get to hit one person with the steel chair to the skull. Who would it be?"

Moving past the question as quickly as possible, Dana responded,

"Any more stupid questions?"

Over the years, backstage incidents and online beefs have rivalled even the best WWE storylines.

Incidents such as UFC superstar, Conor McGregor, showing up backstage and throwing a steel dolly through a transport bus, injuring fellow fighters, the night before UFC 223. Or, perennial title challenger, Colby Covington calling an arena of Brazilian fans "filthy animals" at UFC Fight Night 119, before being escorted out of the arena as bottles flew overhead.

The pro-wrestling nature of the MMA coupled with the UFC's willingness to use and promote controversy has undoubtedly blurred the lines between sport and entertainment.

And, as Endeavour spawns new partnerships, you can expect to see more crossover appeal in the future.

Hey, I'm Hudson! I write about social media, marketing, and modern entrepreneurship. Hit follow for more stories like this one.