While 40-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo is still playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, he has been open about his retirement plans ahead of the 2026 World Cup, and he’s already sorted one future venture
Cristiano Ronaldo has unexpectedly branched into combat sport by becoming a shareholder of Way of Warrior FC (WOW). The Spanish company is a promoter of Multiplie Martial Arts (MMA).
The move sees Ronaldo join lightweight Ultimate Fighting Champion ( UFC ) Ilia Topuria on the board. It comes after the 40-year-old made an open admission about his retirement following next summer’s World Cup in North America.
Writing on X, Ronaldo said: “I’m excited to share some big news: I will become a shareholder of @wowfcmma! We share values I truly believe in – discipline, respect, resilience, and the constant pursuit of excellence.
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“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.”
Topuria also gave his response. “Having Cristiano Ronaldo join WOW FC is a powerful moment for the sport,” he said.
“He represents the highest standards of professionalism, hard work, and global excellence.
“Together, we will push MMA to new heights and inspire athletes and fans around the world to believe that anything is possible.”
Ronaldo currently plays in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr and signed a new two-year contract with the club back in June, which will keep him there until he’s turned 42.
He is expected to represent Portugal in next summer’s World Cup – his sixth appearance in the tournament. Ronaldo has, however, confirmed that it will be his last.
Speaking at the Tourise Summit in Riyadh earlier this month he was asked if 2026 will be his last World Cup. “Definitely, yes,” he said.” I will be 41 years old and I think [this] will be the moment in the big competition.”
After saying in an earlier interview that he would retire ‘soon’, Ronaldo also clarified those comments. “Let’s be honest, when I mean soon, it’s probably one or two years I’ll still be at the game,” he said.
His investment in MMA is not the only business opportunity that Ronaldo has taken, The former Manchester United and Real Madrid man also has hotels and gyms back in Portugal.
He is the face of the CR7 lifestyle brand and has a lifetime contract with sportswear company Nike, which is worth a reported $1billion (£760million).
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