Abu Dhabi events company Flash Entertainment has acquired a 10 percent stake in Zuffa Ultimate Fighting Championship.
The entertainment firm, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi government, is responsible for bringing acts, such as Coldplay, The Killers, Rihanna and Beyonce, to the emirates.
UFC owners Lorenzo J. Fertitta, Frank Fertitta III and Dana White welcomed the move on Tuesday saying the partnership would help promote the sport.
Ultimate fighting was first founded in 1993 and combines boxing, wrestling and martial arts to find the best fighter.
“Over the past few years, we have built a relationship with all levels of the Flash organisation. They share our vision, passion, and enthusiasm for the UFC,” said Fertitta, UFC Chairman and CEO. “We are confident that this partnership will accelerate the worldwide growth of the UFC.”
Ossama Khoreibi, chairman of Flash Entertainment, said: “Since our very first meeting, we were impressed by Lorenzo, Frank and Dana’s commitment to growing UFC as a global sport.
“Flash is equally committed to building Abu Dhabi’s profile as an international entertainment destination, and this partnership provides further proof of our company’s bold ambitions.”
