WWE Sees Massive 24 Percent Revenue Surge Thanks to Netflix Deal and European Tour

The company, which oversees both brands, reported a whopping $1.268 billion in revenue a 4% increase from last year along with a net income of $165.5 million.

Ariel Emanuel, Executive Chair and CEO of TKO, expressed confidence in the direction of the company, stating, TKO is off to a good start in 2025 with both UFC and WWE delivering solid financial results. Given the strength and momentum of these businesses and no material change to our overall business outlook, we are raising our guidance.

For WWE, revenue soared to $391.5 million, up 24% from the $316.7 million generated in the first quarter of 2024. The surge was primarily driven by a $30.5 million boost in media rights, including WWEs expanded global content distribution deal with Netflix. WWE also saw a $26.1 million increase in live events revenue, thanks to higher ticket sales and a successful European tour leading up to WrestleMania 41. Adjusted EBITDA for WWE jumped 38% to $193.9 million.

UFC also delivered strong numbers, generating $359.7 million in revenue a 15% increase from $313 million in the prior year period. UFCs gains were fueled by a $23.3 million spike in live event and hospitality revenue, which included a major event in Saudi Arabia. Partnerships and media rights deals also contributed to the increase, with adjusted EBITDA rising to $227.4 million.

The report also highlighted TKOs full-year projections. The company now expects revenue to reach between $4.49 billion and $4.56 billion, up from the previous forecast of $3 billion. Adjusted EBITDA is projected to hit $1.49 billion to $1.53 billion.

Despite the positive results, IMG reported a $73.4 million decline in revenue, bringing in $476.3 million for the quarter. TKO attributed the dip to adjustments in event production and marketing expenses.