There's a rather revealing article on Forbes.com that delves into the history of Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta -- majority owners of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) -- and their rise to the top of the mixed martial arts circuit.
It's laced with hyperbole; therefore, read with caution and consider these "facts" carefully:
Price the Fertittas paid for UFC in 2001: $2 million
Value today: $1 billion-plus
UFC estimated 2008 sales: $250 millionUFC is estimated to control 90% of the mixed martial arts industry.
UFC pay-per-view buys in 2001: 145,000
UFC pay-per-view buys in 2007: 5.1 million
The average UFC pay-per-view event draws 3 million male viewers between 18 and 49--often the same as a big college football GAME.
UFC employs 275 fighters.
Most make more than $100,000 a year.
Superstars make millions.
The average ticket price of a live UFC event in 2007: $250
That's right, according to the feature the Fertittas say that they have turned down billion dollar offers for their promotion, which is rather remarkable if indeed accurate.
Check out the entire piece when you have some time.
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