Dana White, the UFC President, made a surprising declaration on Instagram, revealing an unexpected collaboration between UFC and WWE. This collaboration has resulted in the creation of TKO Group Holdings, a media conglomerate that will be publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange with the symbol ‘TKO.’
Following this exciting news, John Cena expressed his enthusiasm for the new WWE and UFC partnership through the TKO group.
John Cena reacts to WWE UFC collaboration
The 16-time world champion is super elated about the collaboration between these companies and took to his Instagram to share his feelings.
He posted a picture on his Instagram that features the New York Stock Exchange with the “TKO” ticker symbol and holding both UFC and WWE championship belts. This triggered massive happiness among fans, who were also excited about the collaboration.
Initially, Diana White shared the news on her Instagram and then did Cena.
TKO Group Holdings, Inc. (TKO) has been set up through the merger of the biggest sports entertainment and Zuffa, UFC’s Parent Company. Endeavour Group Holdings, a global entertainment, sports, and content company, initiated this merger. After deciding on the merger on September 12th, 2023, both UFC and WWE will work as different divisions under the newly created TKO Umbrella.
A significant moment for both parties
This collaboration suggests a crucial moment for both WWE and UFC. It’s the first time in WWE’s 70-year history that the McMahon family, the founder, won’t have major control.
The merger with Zuffa and the subsequent formation of TKO Group Holdings initiated a new era for WWE. It opens up possibilities for cross-promotion and the integration of diverse storytelling and entertainment elements.
The disclosure by Dana White and John Cena regarding the UFC and WWE collaboration with TKO Group Holdings has paved a mark for an outstanding new phase in combat sports.
The mix of these formidable entities under the TKO umbrella presents a plethora of opportunities for cross-promotion, overlapping fanbases and different entertainment offerings.
Chief Executive Ari Emanuel said,
“The creation of TKO marks an exciting new chapter for UFC and WWE as leaders in global sports and entertainment.
Given their continued connectivity to the Endeavor network, we are confident in our ability to accelerate their respective growth and unlock long-term sustainable value for shareholders.
He further added,
“Given our collaborative, trusted relationship and Endeavor’s incredible track record of success growing UFC, we believe WWE is optimally positioned for future growth and success as part of TKO.
Our focus remains on delivering for our fans across the globe as we take the business to the next level alongside UFC and Endeavor.”
