TNA Wrestling may be on the verge of a significant ownership change as reports surface about talks involving former UFC owner Lorenzo Fertitta for a possible purchase of the company. This development has stirred interest within the wrestling community due to Fertitta’s deep ties to combat sports business and his connection to TKO Group Holdings, the parent company overseeing both UFC and WWE[1][4].
According to multiple credible sources including Fightful Select and corroborated by social media buzz from podcast host Conrad Thompson, Fertitta’s name emerged recently during internal discussions concerning the future of TNA Wrestling. Thompson notably responded to the rumors with a “Lorenzo!” gif, adding fuel to speculation about Fertitta’s potential involvement[1][4].
Lorenzo Fertitta’s prominence in the fight sports industry stems from his co-ownership and leadership role in UFC. He was part of the group that acquired the UFC promotion in 2001 for $2 million and later was instrumental in its growth and eventual sale to Endeavor for an estimated $4 billion in 2016. This transaction proved pivotal, as Endeavor subsequently merged UFC with WWE in 2023 under the conglomerate TKO Group Holdings, Inc., positioning Fertitta within the broader corporate framework that now governs major combat and sports entertainment properties[1][2].
This is a crucial context because TNA, currently owned by Anthem Sports & Entertainment, has been navigating challenges including securing television rights and competing in a crowded wrestling market. The company had previously entered a working partnership with WWE earlier in 2025, with its TV rights negotiations reportedly facilitated by Creative Artists Agency (CAA), the same agency once led by WWE CEO Nick Khan. If Lorenzo Fertitta’s potential acquisition succeeds, this could deepen the ties between TNA and WWE, given Fertitta’s connection to TKO Group Properties[1].
Industry watchers speculate that Fertitta’s interest in TNA could signal a strategic bid to integrate or compete more directly in the pro wrestling space, especially against rising competitors like AEW. As reported by SI.com’s Takedown segment, TNA might be exploring avenues to position itself as a viable alternative product on television, leveraging potential new ownership and investment[1].
While no official confirmation has come from TNA or Fertitta’s representatives yet, sources close to the negotiations indicate talks are serious and ongoing. Wrestling Headlines reports that the discussions emerged internally and have been acknowledged through respected wrestling news outlets and social media personalities attuned to insider details[4][5].
From a business standpoint, Fertitta’s acquisition of TNA would potentially enable synergies across MMA and professional wrestling promotions managed under TKO Group Holdings’ umbrella. This move could create opportunities for cross-promotional events, talent exchanges, and enhanced production value through shared resources. It also positions TNA to better capitalize on the growing wrestling market that has seen dramatic expansion and diversification in recent years[2][3].
Wrestling observers are keeping a close eye on how this situation develops. A WWE insider who spoke on condition of anonymity told Wrestling Headlines, “Fertitta’s involvement would be a game-changer for TNA. His track record with UFC shows he’s capable of building a global brand, and this could mean a new era for TNA.” Meanwhile, podcast hosts covering wrestling and MMA have speculated extensively on potential timelines and strategic motivations behind the move[1].
In conclusion, the reported discussions between TNA Wrestling and Lorenzo Fertitta represent a potentially pivotal moment in the professional wrestling business landscape. Fertitta’s legacy in combat sports and his current corporate affiliations with WWE and UFC through TKO Group could usher in transformative changes for TNA, offering fresh competitive dynamics and expanded fan engagement. Wrestling fans and industry stakeholders alike await further official updates on this evolving story.
Key Details:
- Former UFC owner Lorenzo Fertitta is reportedly in talks to purchase TNA Wrestling from Anthem Sports[1][4].
- Fertitta helped build UFC from a $2 million investment in 2001 to a multibillion-dollar company sold to Endeavor in 2016[1][2].
- Endeavor merged UFC and WWE under TKO Group Holdings in 2023, cementing Fertitta’s influence in combat sports and sports entertainment[1].
- TNA’s ongoing relationship with WWE and negotiations for new TV deals could deepen if Fertitta becomes involved[1].
- Insider reports and social media reactions, notably from Conrad Thompson, have amplified speculation[4][5].
- Expert sources view Fertitta’s potential entry as a major business opportunity to grow and reposition TNA in the competitive wrestling market.
This developing story will continue to be a focal point in wrestling news as more information becomes available. Stay tuned to WWE.com, Fightful, Ringside News, and other top wrestling news outlets for official confirmations and insights.