Dana White on UFC sale to WME-IMG: We'll 'take this sport to the next level'

It's finally official. The UFC has officially sold for a reported $4 billion to famed talent agency WME-IMG. A memo was sent out to all fighters on Monday confirming the acquisition, noting that "customary closing conditions" have not yet been completed.

As the sale pertains to the future of UFC president Dana White, his role with the company will remain unchanged. In an official Zuffa press release, White made a brief statement about partnering with WME-IMG to help further grow the UFC and the sport of MMA itself.

"No other sport compares to UFC," remarked Dana White, UFC's President who will continue in that role. "Our goal has always been to put on the biggest and the best fights for our fans, and to make this the biggest sport in the world. I'm looking forward to working with WME | IMG to continue to take this sport to the next level."

Fifteen years ago, Lorenzo Fertitta and Frank Fertitta III bought the UFC for just $2 million, and while they will continue to have a "passive minority interest in the organization," Lorenzo will step down from his role as Chairman and CEO of the UFC once the closing is final. Here are his words on the sale (also from the press release).

Lorenzo J. Fertitta, Chairman and CEO, UFC, said: "We're confident that the new ownership team of WME | IMG, with whom we've built a strong relationship over the last several years, is committed to accelerating UFC's global growth. Most importantly, our new owners share the same vision and passion for this organization and its athletes."

Check out Bloody Elbow's compilation of fighter reactions to today's news, including from UFC featherweight champion Conor McGregor.