The UFC is a huge MMA fighting organization known worldwide. It’s called the Ultimate Fighting Championship and is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. TKO Group Holdings, mostly owned by Endeavor Group Holdings, runs it. Fighters from all around the globe compete in various weight classes, aiming to become world champions. But let’s look beyond Dana White and find out who originally started the organisation.
Origin of the Ultimate Fighting Championship
The UFC was established by businessman Art Davie and Brazilian martial artist Rorion Gracie, with its inaugural event taking place in 1993 at the McNichols Sports Arena in Denver, Colorado. Originally owned by the Semaphore Entertainment Group (SEG), financial difficulties led to its acquisition by brothers Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta in 2001.
Under new ownership in 2001, Zuffa, LLC, led by Frank Fertitta III, Lorenzo Fertitta, and Dana White, transformed the UFC into a highly organized and globally recognized combat sport. Headquartered in Las Vegas, the organisation hosts over 40 live events annually, broadcast in 165+ countries. UFC FIGHT PASS launched in 2013, offering fighting-related content.
In April 2023, Endeavor Group Holdings announced a merger between the UFC and wrestling promotion WWE, forming TKO Group Holdings. This new public company, primarily owned by Endeavor, saw Vince McMahon appointed as executive chairman and Dana White retaining his role as president. The merger was finalized on September 12, 2023.
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The UFC organizes events globally featuring 11 weight divisions (eight for men and three for women), adhering to the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts. Now, the UFC is gearing up for its 300th Pay-Per-View event, featuring Alex Pereira vs. Jamahal Hill. Catch all the action live from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, on April 13, 2024. Don’t miss out on UFC 300: Pereira vs. Hill!
