TKO Group Holdings recently held an earnings call, in which they discussed their sports affiliations and the competitive landscape of their industry. Notably, they asserted that competition is ultimately a positive thing. With a roster exceeding 600 fighters, including some of the most renowned ones, TKO Group Holdings believes that competitors are likely targeting similar ascension to the UFC. The group draws a comparison with the XFL and its aspirational journey towards the NFL, implying that their own league serves as a stepping stone for most fighters.
TKO Group Holdings resulted from the merger between the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). They confidently stated to their shareholders that they see no issues with competitors of the UFC, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization. Ari Emanuel, TKO Group Holding’s CEO, and Mark Shapiro, President and COO, spoke specifically about Saudi Arabia’s $100 million investment in the Professional Fighter’s League, a direct competitor to the UFC.
Shortly after the investment was made, UFC announced an extension of its deal with Abu Dhabi and unveiled a new partnership with Saudi Arabia. The first UFC event in Saudi Arabia is slated for March 2024. Shapiro expressed his contentment with SRJ’s investment in PFL, remarking that he sees competition as essential to the sport’s growth. He also noted that leagues like PFL and Bellator would continue to serve as effective feeder leagues for the UFC. He concluded by acknowledging that the Saudi Arabian investment in the sport creates an opportunity for growth. UFC was supportive of PFL’s deal with ESPN and anticipating the expansion of MMA to other countries.