Cristiano Ronaldo has officially become a shareholder in the leading Spanish MMA promotion, WOW FC.
Ronaldo joins forces with UFC two-division champion Ilia Topuria in this landmark business venture. WOW FC is already recognized as Spain’s leading MMA organization, but their CEO Arturo Guillén described the partnership with the football icon as “transformational.” WOW FC has seen an incredible surge of over 400% in event attendance, with recent fight cards now regularly attracting more than 5,000 spectators. The organization’s events are now broadcast in over 170 countries. The partnership aims to accelerate the promotion’s international expansion.
“Having Cristiano join WOW FC is a powerful moment for the sport. Together, we will take MMA to new heights and inspire athletes and fans worldwide to believe that anything is possible,” Topuria stated
“For me, MMA embodies the principles I live by, hard work, respect, mental strength and the pursuit of greatness. WOW FC executives say his contribution will go beyond finances, noting that the athlete intends to engage directly with the promotion’s long-term plans and help connect the sport with younger audiences,” Ronaldo said
Implications
Ronaldo’s involvement provides WOW FC with huge marketing. Ronaldo is one of the most followed people on social media globally, with over 600 million followers on Instagram alone. With Ronaldo’s investment and massive social media marketing, the promotion can strategically target global markets—especially in Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East where Ronaldo has a huge following.
The primary risk associated with this partnership is managing the unrealistic expectations that come with a name as big as Cristiano Ronaldo. He is an investor, not an operational expert in combat sports. If the promotion’s growth does not maintain the pace that is now expected, or if there is a perception that the partnership is purely promotional without deep, strategic substance, it could lead to disappointment.