Cristiano Ronaldo has made a surprising entry into martial arts by becoming a shareholder in Way of Warriors FC (WOW). This Spanish company promotes mixed martial arts (MMA).
With this announcement, Ronaldo will be joined by lightweight Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) star Ilya Topria on the company’s board of directors. This article follows the 40-year-old’s candid revelation that next summer’s North American World Cup will be his last.
“He embodies the highest standards of professionalism, hard work and world-class excellence.
“Together, we want to push MMA to new heights and inspire athletes and fans around the world to believe that anything is possible.”
Ronaldo currently plays with Al Nasr in Saudi Arabia and signed a new two-year contract with the club in June last year. That ties him to the side until he is 42 years old.
Ronaldo posted on X, saying, “I’m excited to share some big news. I will be a shareholder in @wowfcmma! We share values that I truly believe in: discipline, respect, resilience, and the constant pursuit of excellence.”
“WOW FC is building something unique and powerful and we are proud to be part of this project that will elevate the sport and inspire the next generation.”
Topria also shared his thoughts: “Cristiano Ronaldo joining WOW FC is a powerful moment for the sport.”
He is scheduled to represent Portugal at next summer’s World Cup, which will be his sixth appearance in the tournament. However, Ronaldo has made it clear that this will be his last match.
Speaking at the Tourise Summit in Riyadh earlier this month, he was asked whether 2026 would be the last World Cup. “Absolutely, yes,” he said.
“I’m almost 41 years old and I think (this) will be a big competitive moment.”
In a previous interview, Ronaldo hinted that he would retire “soon”, but later clarified that comment. “Honestly, I mean very soon, but it’s probably a year or two before I’ll be able to compete,” he said.
Ronaldo’s business has expanded beyond football and he is currently investing in MMA, hotels and gyms in Portugal.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star is also the face of the CR7 lifestyle brand and has a lifetime contract with sportswear giant Nike, which is reportedly worth a staggering $1bn (£760m).
