On Monday morning, UFC fighter Joe Lauzon, who won a Performance of the Night bonus for his knockout of Diego Sanchez at UFC 200, took to social media to share an internal letter that the UFC sent the its’ fighters this morning regarding the reports of the UFC being sold to new owners for $4 billion.
Dear Athletes,
We are writing to personally advise you of a chance to UFC. Renowned entertainment, sports and fashion giant WWE | IMG has entered into agreement to acquire UFC. Silver Lake Partners, KKR, MSD Capital, L.P. and MSD Partners, L.P. will join WME | IMG as new strategic investors. The transaction is subject to customary conditions.
From the moment Zuffa, LLC purchased UFC over 15 years ago, you, the athletes, have always been the central focus of the promotion. That will not change. WME | IMG, who has been involved with UFC for many years, is focused on the continued global expansion of mixed martial arts and committed to further promotion you on the global stage.
Upon closing the deal, Lorenzo Fertitta will be stepping down as Chairman and CEO of the organization, however Lorenzo and Frank will retain a minority ownership interest in the business. UFC President Dana White will continue in his role and will also retain a minority ownership interest.
The organization’s leadership, a team of great executives hand-picked to help lead the business, will remain in place to carry on their work and continue to lead the team of dedicated employees who promote your careers as mixed martial arts athletes.
You remain a very important part of the highly driven, dedicated and motivated organization that will continue to deliver world-class experiences and opportunities for you as athletes and for the greatest fans in the world.
Thank you,
The Zuffa executive team
For more details regarding reports of the UFC sale, which is expected to become a public story in the very near future, click here.
That makes it official. https://t.co/whBUODcXaP pic.twitter.com/C0liWVOpqD
— Joe Lauzon (@JoeLauzon) July 11, 2016