Cristiano Ronaldo Invests in WOW FC, Releases Statement About MMA Promotion

Legendary soccer star Cristian Ronaldo announced Thursday that he has joined the WOW FC MMA promotion as a shareholder.

WOW FC, also known as The Way of Warrior FC, is an MMA promotion based in Spain that was founded in 2019. UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria is among the investors.

Ronaldo provided a statement regarding his involvement with WOW FC in a press release, saying, "MMA represents values I truly believe in—discipline, respect, resilience, and the constant pursuit of excellence. WOW FC is building something unique and powerful, and I'm proud to join this project to help elevate the sport and inspire the next generation."

WOW FC executive chairman Arturo Guillen also commented on Ronaldo's addition, calling it a "historic moment" due to Ronaldo being "a symbol of ambition, resilience and excellence."

Topuria welcomed Ronaldo to WOW FC as well in a post on X:

Ronaldo, 40, has been a pro soccer star since 2002, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest players ever.

With more than 950 competitive goals, the Portuguese striker is the all-time leading scorer in soccer history.

Currently playing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, Ronaldo previously played for Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus. He is a five-time winner of the Ballon d'Or, a five-time UEFA Champions League winner and a one-time winner of the UEFA European Championship.

Next year, Ronaldo will likely play in his final World Cup, and he will look to lead Portugal to its first-ever World Cup title.

Ronaldo will also be focused on his new business venture with WOW FC. The promotion's next event, WOW 24: Vitoria, will take place Friday at Fernando Buesa Arena in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.