The worlds of mixed martial arts and professional wrestling collided last year when the UFC and WWE merged into the TKO Group, owned by Hollywood talent agency Endeavor. This groundbreaking union has opened doors to exciting opportunities, one of which has just been revealed. The UFC and WWE have signed a joint live event partnership with OC Vibe, a prominent sports and entertainment district based in Anaheim, California.
Officials recently confirmed to ESPN that the deal will bring multiple events from both promotions to the Honda Center in Anaheim. Over the course of the next five years, fans can expect a variety of thrilling spectacles from the world of MMA and professional wrestling. Although an official announcement is yet to be made, the partnership has already generated significant buzz within the combat sports community.
Expanding Horizons
This groundbreaking agreement marks the first collaboration of its kind since the TKO Group was established in September of last year. It offers a glimpse into the innovative ways in which the new company will present the UFC and WWE combined to jurisdictions and tourism authorities worldwide. Both promotions have actively sought out partners for similar collaborations on a global scale, with local governments and private companies eager to bring the excitement of combat sports to their regions.
Commencing this year, the Honda Center will play host to three events from both the UFC and WWE annually until 2028. This includes the potential for high-profile pay-per-view events, Fight Night cards, and television programs such as WWE Raw and SmackDown. While the deal does not stipulate back-to-back events or weekly shows, such arrangements are not out of the question. This partnership signifies a step forward in the evolution of combat sports entertainment and heralds a bright future for both promotions.
Capitalizing on Coincidence
As a fortuitous coincidence, the UFC will hold its highly anticipated UFC 298 pay-per-view event at the Honda Center on Saturday. Just two days later, WWE will take over the same iconic venue for Monday Night Raw. Recognizing the potential for a unique spectator experience, TKO Group has devised enticing ticket packages that allow fans to attend both events and even offers exclusive VIP access to watch the UFC event alongside popular WWE stars Bianca Belair and Montez Ford.
Peter Dropick, the UFC’s Executive Vice President of Event Development and Operations, praised Honda Center as one of their most beloved venues over the past two decades. With their support, the UFC has delivered numerous unforgettable events. This partnership with OC Vibe signifies a continued commitment to providing fans with exceptional live experiences and further solidifies the bond between combat sports and entertainment.
As the UFC and WWE embark on this new chapter together, their joint live event partnership with OC Vibe represents a significant milestone. From attracting fans worldwide to showcasing world-class talent, this collaboration is sure to captivate audiences and shape the future of combat sports entertainment. Stay tuned for the official announcement and get ready to witness the thrilling fusion of MMA and professional wrestling coming to the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.
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