Does Dana White own the UFC?

Dana White, widely recognized as the face and driving force behind the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), holds a significant stake in the organization. However, it is important to note that he does not own the UFC outright. Let’s explore the ownership structure of the UFC and Dana White’s role within the organization.

In 2001, Dana White, along with the Fertitta brothers, Frank Fertitta III and Lorenzo Fertitta, formed Zuffa LLC and acquired the UFC. At that time, White was appointed as the President of the UFC and played a vital role in its revitalization and subsequent success.

For over a decade, White held a minority ownership stake in the UFC. However, in 2016, the Fertitta brothers and Dana White made a significant business move by selling the majority stake in the UFC to the talent agency WME-IMG (now known as Endeavor). This transaction valued the UFC at approximately $4 billion, making it one of the most valuable sports properties in the world.

Although the Fertitta brothers and Dana White sold the majority stake, they retained minority ownership interests in the UFC. As part of the deal, Dana White continued in his role as the President of the UFC and remained actively involved in the organization’s day-to-day operations.

While the specifics of the ownership distribution have not been publicly disclosed, it is widely known that Dana White maintains a minority ownership stake and remains an influential figure within the UFC. His continued involvement and decision-making authority have been key to the organization’s ongoing success and growth.

It is worth noting that the UFC’s ownership structure has evolved further over the years. In recent years, other prominent investors, including various sports and entertainment entities, have also acquired ownership interests in the UFC. However, Dana White has remained a constant presence and a driving force in shaping the direction of the organization.

In summary, Dana White does not own the UFC outright, but he holds a minority ownership stake and maintains a significant role as the President of the organization. Together with the Fertitta brothers and other investors, White has played a pivotal role in the UFC’s remarkable rise to prominence and its establishment as a global powerhouse in the world of mixed martial arts.