Lorenzo Fertitta Joins UFC Full Time

News

Earlier this month, Dana White claimed he had an announcement that would shock the MMA industry and change the face of the business going forward. Hardcore fans began to speculate on what the announcement might be, with everything from a sale of the company to an announcement that Zuffa had signed Fedor Emelianenko to face Randy Couture in a UFC PPV for the heavyweight title.

The announcement, while on the surface seemingly a letdown, actually has gigantic implications in the sport and the business of UFC for the future. Lorenzo Fertitta, the CEO of Station Casinos and part-owner of Zuffa (UFC’s parent company), announced today that he’s leaving his $117 million dollar job and joining the UFC to work alongside Dana White full time.

This is huge news for the business of MMA. Dana White is a driving force behind the UFC, but his brash personality has been a hindrance in negotiations for the company in trying to land new deals. Fertitta is a smooth and polished businessman, and his everyday presence in the company will allow them to make much faster inroads into international business.