New Netflix documentary reveals why Vince McMahon turned down buying the UFC despite son Shane McMahon's earnest requests

Netflix's latest documentary Mr. McMahon explores the complex legacy and controversial story of former WWE CEO Vince McMahon. Among the many intriguing revelations in the documentary, one of the most striking highlights is the story behind his son Shane McMahon's request to his father to purchase the UFC.

Shane was ambitious and eager to build on the legacy of his father. He envisioned a future where he could shape the UFC into a formidable organization at a time when the MMA company was facing financial problems. Yet, despite the interest, Vince ultimately chose to reject the opportunity.

In a candid moment from the documentary, Shane said:

"At the time, you have seen, they got some financial problems and came to us and said what you like to purchase, the UFC? [And] I go, 'This is cool. Dad let's just go for this one. I thought we could really grow that brand because it's tailor made for what we do. We have a production team, we have live events team, we have merchandising team, we have all of it, just ready to go. So to me it was plug and play."

However, Vince preferred a business model that allowed for character creation. Speaking about the prospect of buying the UFC, he added:

"When it was presented in terms of buying UFC, I didn't like that business model. Our business model, you could create characters much like Disney or someone else. And we can use them forever as opposed to boxer/ UFC. Once you beat, once you hurt or some, you clear it all."

Check out the clip from the Netflix documentary below:

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When Vince McMahon claimed that he's a better businessman than Dana White

The merger of UFC and WWE into TKO Group Holdings in September 2023 was a pivotal moment in the sporting landscape. The merger aims to grow beyond fighting and entertainment by expanding into international media rights, production, and acquisitions.

Vince McMahon confidently asserted that he is a better businessman than UFC CEO Dana White during a media interaction with MMA Junkie and other reporters on the red carpet of the Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou boxing event in Saudi Arabia. He said:

"I don’t bust anybody's chops unless they get in the way. But Dana and I get along very, very well. He’s a really good guy. We’re good partners and good businessmen. We’re good businessmen and we get along. He’s a tough guy. I’m a better businessman.”

Catch Vince McMahon's comments below: