Endeavor to Go Private in Silver Lake Deal Worth $13 Billion

Endeavor, the powerhouse behind agencies WME and IMG, is set to be acquired by private equity firm Silver Lake in a monumental deal worth $13 billion. This move comes as Endeavor marks its third year as a publicly traded company and just months after its rival CAA underwent new ownership.

Silver Lake, already the largest shareholder in Endeavor, plans to acquire the remaining shares by offering stockholders $27.50 per share in cash, a significant 55% premium to the unaffected share price. This acquisition will see Endeavor go private, a decision made after a strategic review that began in October 2023.

Endeavor, known for its diverse portfolio including On Location, 160over90, and OpenBet, is also the majority owner of TKO Group Holdings, which oversees the merger of UFC and WWE. Despite the acquisition, TKO will continue trading on the NYSE and benefit from Endeavor’s expertise.

Led by co-CEOs Egon Durban and Greg Mondre, Silver Lake’s assets include a range of companies like Fanatics, Waymo, and Madison Square Garden Sports. The acquisition is fully financed by Silver Lake and partnering investors, with Endeavor’s leadership team rolling over their equity.

Ari Emanuel, Endeavor’s chief executive, expressed excitement about the deal, stating it will unlock growth opportunities for the company. Stephen Evans of Silver Lake highlighted the longstanding partnership between the two entities and the potential for future success in talent representation and content ownership. This acquisition marks a new chapter for Endeavor as it looks towards a bright future under private ownership.