Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has acquired a stake in Spanish mixed martial arts (MMA) organization WOW FC, a move set to significantly accelerate the sport’s global expansion and mainstream cultural integration.
Ronaldo, 40, announced his investment on Thursday, November 27, 2025, emphasizing shared values with the combat sport.
“MMA represents values in which I truly believe: discipline, respect, resilience and the constant pursuit of excellence,” Ronaldo stated. He added that WOW FC is “building something unique and powerful,” and he is proud to join to “help elevate the sport and inspire the next generation.”
I’m excited to share some big news: I will become a shareholder of @wowfcmma! We share values I truly believe in – discipline, respect, resilience, and the constant pursuit of excellence.WOW FC is building something unique and powerful, and I’m proud to join this project to… pic.twitter.com/mMP7HlBucc— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) November 27, 2025
WOW FC, which already operates in over 170 countries, expects Ronaldo’s partnership to significantly boost its global expansion mission.
Arturo Guillen, WOW FC Executive CEO, called Ronaldo’s entry “a historic moment.”
Guillen highlighted Ronaldo as “more than a global superstar — he is a symbol of ambition, resilience, and excellence.” This partnership, according to Guillen, validates WOW FC’s efforts and positions them to “redefine the role that MMA can play in global culture.”
Ilia Topuria, current UFC featherweight champion and a fellow WOW FC shareholder, also welcomed Ronaldo’s involvement. Topuria stated Ronaldo “represents the highest standards of professionalism, hard work and global excellence.”
He believes that together, they will “take MMA to new heights and inspire athletes and fans around the world.”
The Spanish-based organization is known for its MMA events and championships.
WOW FC has two upcoming events scheduled in Spain. WOW 24 will take place on November 28 in Vitoria-Gasteiz, at the Fernando Buesa Arena.
WOW 25 is scheduled for December 13 at the Madrid Arena, a venue in Madrid. Tickets for these events are available through the official WOW FC website.