Shane McMahon wanted to buy UFC says Dana White

WWE chairman Vince McMahon once had the opportunity to purchase the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in the early 2000s. UFC president Dana White confirmed this long-standing rumor shedding light on the intriguing what-if scenario that could have forever altered the landscape of combat sports.

During an appearance on Big Boy TV, Dana White discussed the McMahon family’s consideration of buying UFC, particularly through the interest of Vince’s son, Shane McMahon. White revealed that Shane had expressed a desire to acquire UFC presenting the opportunity to his father. However, Vince McMahon ultimately declined the proposal opting not to invest in the burgeoning mixed martial arts organization.

This revelation is particularly noteworthy considering the meteoric rise of UFC over the years. While it had a cult following in the 1990s and early 2000s, UFC’s explosive growth transformed it into the world’s premier combat sports organization. UFC’s success has been characterized by global recognition, sold-out arenas, and pay-per-view events that draw millions of viewers.

At the time of this potential acquisition, WWE had some connections to UFC such as signing former UFC star Ken Shamrock to a pro wrestling contract. However, Vince McMahon’s decision not to purchase UFC indicated that he did not perceive enough value in acquiring the organization.

Shane McMahon wanted to buy UFC says Dana White

Instead of pursuing UFC, McMahon turned his attention to the acquisition of World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in 2001, a significant move in the world of professional wrestling. This purchase marked a pivotal moment in the wrestling industry as WWE effectively eliminated one of its longstanding competitors. Additionally, another competitor, Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), went out of business around the same time. WWE eventually secured the video library and intellectual property of ECW.

While WWE’s acquisition of WCW and ECW had profound implications for the wrestling landscape. The decision not to purchase UFC could have changed the course of both professional wrestling and combat sports in ways that are difficult to predict.

Ironically, WWE and UFC have now converged under the same corporate umbrella, as they officially merged into a singular entity known as TKO Group Holdings. Earlier this year, UFC owner Endeavor Group Holdings acquired WWE marking a historic moment as it marked the first time McMahon did not have a controlling interest in WWE.

In the newly formed TKO Group Holdings, both Dana White and Vince McMahon play significant roles. Vince McMahon serves as TKO’s executive chairman, while Dana White assumes the position of CEO of the UFC division. This alignment of leadership underscores the potential for collaboration and synergy between the two organizations, despite the missed opportunity of the past.

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