TKO Group Holdings Announces Major Sports Events in Kansas City
Kansas City, Mo. – TKO Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: TKO) has revealed plans for a series of high-profile events at the T-Mobile Center, featuring the UFC, WWE, and PBR (Professional Bull Riders) from April 24-28. The events will kick off with PBR on Thursday, April 24, followed by UFC FIGHT NIGHT on Saturday, April 26, and concluding with WWE’s flagship program, Raw, on Monday, April 28. Fans can look forward to an exhilarating lineup of entertainment from these leading sports organizations.
Historic TKO Takeover at T-Mobile Center
Facilitated by the Kansas City Sports Commission, the T-Mobile Center will be the first venue to host a ‘TKO Takeover Presented by VeChain,’ featuring back-to-back events from PBR, UFC, and WWE within the same weekend in one city. VeChain, recognized as a leader in blockchain technology, has partnered with the UFC since 2022 and is now stepping up as the first presenting partner for this unique event series.
Significance of Kansas City as an Event Destination
Peter Dropick, Executive Vice President of Event Development and Operations for TKO, expressed enthusiasm about Kansas City’s history of hosting UFC, WWE, and PBR events. “Kansas City has consistently been a prime location for these promotions, and this event is an exciting chance to present all three in one place, benefiting fans and the local economy alike,” he noted. He also acknowledged the support from the Kansas City Sports Commission and T-Mobile Center management in making this event possible.
Economic Impact of the Events
Kathy Nelson, President and CEO of the Kansas City Sports Commission and Visit KC, highlighted the economic benefits these events will bring to local hotels and businesses. “We are excited to partner with three of the most influential names in sports and entertainment, further enhancing Kansas City’s reputation as a host for world-class events,” she added. The events will also garner significant visibility through broadcasts and social media platforms.
Excitement Builds for Guests
Jay Cooper, General Manager of T-Mobile Center, spoke about the venue’s longstanding relationship with UFC, WWE, and PBR, noting the memorable events they have hosted. “Having all three promotions come together for a week of action will offer our guests an unparalleled experience in sports entertainment. We are proud that TKO chose T-Mobile Center for this landmark series of events,” he said.
Ticket Information and VIP Packages
An exclusive ticket package, which combines access to all three events, will be available for purchase starting Monday, March 3 at 10 a.m. CST on AXS.com. Additionally, VIP Experience packages will soon be offered through On Location, providing premium seating, hospitality services, athlete meet-and-greets, and other exclusive perks. For more information on these packages, visit onlocationexp.com.
Upcoming Details on Participants
Further announcements regarding the UFC athletes, WWE Superstars, and PBR bull riders slated to participate in the Kansas City events will be disclosed in the coming weeks. UFC and WWE are part of TKO, a premier sports and entertainment company currently in the process of acquiring PBR and On Location. For those eager to learn more about the inaugural TKO Takeover Presented by VeChain, they can visit pbr.com/tkotakeover.
A Look Back at Kansas City’s Sports Legacy
Over the last two decades, UFC, WWE, and PBR have collectively hosted over 60 events in Kansas City, each with a rich history in the area. The Kansas City Outlaws, champions of the 2024 PBR Teams league, hold an annual series of matches at T-Mobile Center. Additionally, PBR has teamed up with The Cordish Companies to manage the PBR Big Sky Bar in the Power & Light district. Notable UFC fighters who have competed in Kansas City include former champions such as Max Holloway, Demetrious Johnson, Robert Whittaker, and Rose Namajunas, while WWE has hosted significant events including Money in The Bank in 2010, featuring legends like John Cena and current champion Cody Rhodes.
