The parent company of the UFC has purchased rival mixed martial arts promoter Strikeforce, though they will continue to operate as separate entities.
Financial terms of the sale were not available.
Strikeforce spokesman Mike Afromowitz confirmed the deal to The Associated Press last night, saying he was told that it will be "business as usual" for both companies.
The San Jose-based promotional company has grown over the past few years, with a roster of stars that includes Fedor Emelianenko, Nick Diaz and Dan Henderson. It also has output deals with premium cable network Showtime and could soon show pay-per-view broadcasts.
Dana White, the UFC president, also confirmed the deal in a text message to The Canadian Press.
