Dana White Addresses "Big News" Rumors on CNBC
UFC president Dana White and UFC heavyweight Brock Lesnar's appearance on today's CNBC "Power Lunch" program was to announce a deal with toy maker Jakks Pacific Inc.
The UFC and Jakks signed a four-year license agreement to develop a line of collector-focused UFC action figures and accessories.
However, while on the show, White also debunked a rash of recent rumors regarding the organization's future.
Debunked rumors included the possibility of boxer Floyd Mayweather joining the organization; World Wrestling Entertainment partnering with the UFC in any capacity (including ownership and merchandising); the UFC appearing on FOX, ABC or another network; and the UFC possibly going public. White said none of them were true.
Instead, the focus was on the dolls. Or, "action figures" as White said.
JAKKS, which launched in 1995, is known for designing, developing, producing and marketing toys, leisure products and writing instruments. World Wrestling Entertainment is one of the company's strategic partners.
"We just closed a deal with Jakks," White said. "They'll be available [for] Christmas. ... There's an octagon and accessories and all kinds of stuff."
In addition to the Jakks deal, UFC.com today released news about other merchandising deals recently signed by the UFC. Try to overlook the hyperbole:
Quote:
It's a day many hoped for, and after a flurry of activity that has taken the industry by storm, fans of the Ultimate Fighting Championship will soon be able to collect Jakks Pacific UFC figures, use UFC-branded Bic lighters and Silver Buffalo watches, shop with a UFC credit card, and pick up UFC apparel at JC Penney stores. This unprecedented series of announcements truly stamps the UFC as the premier brand in the sport of mixed martial arts as well as the home of the elite fighters in the game.
