WWE and UFC to Merge in $21 Billion Deal

World Wrestling Entertainment ($WWE@US) and Ultimate Fighting Championship will merge to form a new combat sports and entertainment company owned by Endeavor Group ($EDR@US), the companies announced on Monday. Endeavor will own a 51 percent stake in the new company, and WWE shareholders will own 49 percent. The UFC, which is owned by Endeavor, is valued at $9.3 billion, and Endeavor is valued at $12.1 billion. Former WWE Owner Vince McMahon will serve as the new company’s executive chairman, and Dana White will stay on as president of the UFC, while Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel will serve as chief executive of the new company.