TKO Group Holdings continues to ride a wave of major media rights deals to deliver stronger growth, with Paramount’s lucrative new deal with the UFC officially kicking off in the first quarter.
The company, which owns UFC, WWE, IMG and other brands like On Location and PBR, revealed that in the first quarter it had revenue of $1.6 billion (up 26 percent), net income of $250 million, and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) of $550 million (up 32 percent). The company also revealed a plan to increase its stock buybacks by $1 billion.
“TKO is off to a tremendous start in 2026, with strong results and continued momentum in each of our businesses,” said Ariel Emanuel, CEO and CEO of TKO. “We reaffirm our full-year guidance, and today’s authorization of an additional $1 billion share repurchase underscores our conviction in TKO and its long-term value.”
At the UFC, revenue rose 12 percent to $401 million, driven by a $51 million increase in media rights (thanks to the new Paramount agreement), offset by a $10 million decline in live events and hospitality. Partnerships and marketing revenue increased by $3 million.
At WWE, revenue rose 22 percent to $476 million, driven by a $47 million increase in live events and hospitality and a $30 million increase in media rights. Partnerships, marketing and product licensing also rose year over year.
IMG revenue rose 38 percent to $655 million, driven almost entirely by a $179 million increase in live events and hospitality, due to On Location’s work on the 2026 Olympics. Corporate and other revenue rose 36 percent to $74 million, driven by increased revenue at PBR and the launch of Zuffa’s new boxing effort.
The company has also reaffirmed its guidance for this year, with a host of major events set to make waves, including a UFC event at the White House, and the FIFA World Cup, where On Location will once again provide hospitality.
“TKO’s first-quarter results reflect the strength and durability of our outstanding intellectual property and media rights.”
The portfolio is well-established, our financial incentive packages continue to expand, and demand is increasing
“Outstanding live events and experiences are healthy,” said Mark Shapiro, president and chief operating officer of TKO.
UFC Freedom 250 at the White House and in a FIFA World Cup partnership on site, TKO will take over
Center stage this summer, the crowning moments of audience growth, cultural significance, and our business
path.”
