TKO announced fourth quarter earnings for 2023 and the filings revealed the UFC and WWE made record revenue. The UFC made $142.9 million in adjusted earnings on $282.8 million for the fourth quarter.
In total for the year, the UFC revenues rose 13% to $1.3 billion while adjusted EBITDA was up 11% to $756 million. The UFC earnings were fueled by a jump in advertising and sponsorship which hit $196 million for the year. This was based on renewals and new brand partners. In addition, media rights fees were up to $870.6 million and consumer products were up as well to $53.6 million.
Despite the Vince McMahon drama, the WWE hit revenue records as well. It was up 3% in revenue to $1.3 billion and adjusted EBITDA of $533.1 million. 2023 was a banner year for WWE media rights as it brokered 3 deals: NXT moving to the CW Network, Smackdown to USA and Raw to Netflix. The biggest deal being the move to Netflix which was tabbed at 10 years, $5 billion.
But, for MMA fans, the UFC’s revenues reflect the popularity of the sport. It has brokered new sponsor deals in 2023 while refreshing others. The most notable being Bud Light returning to the Octagon, replacing Modelo as the primary beer sponsor. Also, the longest tenured Octagon sponsor, Toyo Tires, renewed its pact with the UFC. It also partnered with smaller brands including Black Rifle Coffee Company, Slate Milk and protein popcorn company Kudo.
Leave a Reply