The UFC has proven to be the most successful combat sports entity currently operating, while WWE is proving to be the top dog in professional wrestling.
In their report, Forbes lists the most valuable combat sports promotions of 2024, with the UFC taking the top spot overall with a valuation of $11.3 billion.
WWE takes the #2 spot with a valuation of $6.8 billion, over triple the value of AEW which takes the bronze medal with a $2 billion valuation.
WWE is estimated to have made $1.3 billion in revenue in 2023, surpassing the $250 million estimated revenue of AEW.
The complete rankings are as follows:
1: UFC ($11.3 billion)
2: WWE ($6.8 billion)
3: AEW ($2 billion)
4: ONE Championship ($1.3 billion)
5: Matchroom Boxing ($850 million)
6: PFL ($690 million)
7: Top Rank Boxing ($630 million)
8: Premier Boxing Championship ($600 million)
9: Golden Boy Promotions ($450 million)
10: Combate Global ($120 million)
In the world of combat sports, two entities have risen to the top as the most successful and valuable promotions: the UFC and WWE. While the UFC dominates the realm of mixed martial arts, WWE reigns supreme in professional wrestling. According to a recent report by Forbes, these two promotions hold the top spots in terms of valuation.
Forbes’ report on the most valuable combat sports promotions of 2024 reveals that the UFC sits comfortably at the number one spot with a staggering valuation of $11.3 billion. This comes as no surprise considering the UFC’s global popularity and its ability to consistently deliver high-profile fights that capture the attention of millions of fans worldwide.
WWE, on the other hand, takes the second spot with a valuation of $6.8 billion. This places it well ahead of its closest competitor, All Elite Wrestling (AEW), which holds the third position with a valuation of $2 billion. WWE’s valuation is more than triple that of AEW, highlighting its dominance in the professional wrestling industry.
The financial success of WWE is further emphasized by its estimated revenue of $1.3 billion in 2023. In comparison, AEW’s estimated revenue stands at $250 million, showcasing WWE’s significant lead in terms of financial performance.
The complete rankings provided by Forbes shed light on the overall landscape of combat sports promotions. Following the top three, ONE Championship secures the fourth spot with a valuation of $1.3 billion. Matchroom Boxing follows closely behind with a valuation of $850 million, while the Professional Fighters League (PFL) claims the sixth position with a valuation of $690 million.
The remaining positions in the top ten are occupied by Top Rank Boxing ($630 million), Premier Boxing Championship ($600 million), Golden Boy Promotions ($450 million), and Combate Global ($120 million). These rankings demonstrate the diversity within combat sports, encompassing various disciplines such as boxing and MMA.
The success of the UFC and WWE can be attributed to several factors. The UFC’s ability to consistently deliver high-quality fights featuring the world’s top mixed martial artists has garnered a massive fan base and secured lucrative broadcasting deals. Additionally, the promotion’s strategic partnerships and global expansion efforts have contributed to its immense valuation.
WWE, on the other hand, has established itself as a global entertainment powerhouse. With its larger-than-life characters, captivating storylines, and spectacular live events, WWE has captured the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. The company’s ability to adapt to changing media landscapes and embrace digital platforms has also played a significant role in its financial success.
As combat sports continue to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these valuations and rankings fluctuate in the coming years. With new promotions emerging and existing ones striving for growth, the landscape of combat sports is sure to witness further transformations. However, for now, the UFC and WWE stand tall as the most valuable combat sports promotions, solidifying their positions as industry leaders.