Cierco Family Enters Spanish MMA with Wow FC Investment

The Cierco family, former owners of Banca Privada d'Andorra (BPA) and Banco Madrid, has entered Spain's mixed martial arts sector through its company Clayton, appointing Higini Cierco Palau to the board of Wow Fight Company (Wow FC) following a capital increase now recorded in the Spanish commercial registry.

The move, reported by Spanish outlet The Objective and covered in Andorran media, brings Andorran capital into the promoter of MMA events backed by UFC champion Ilia Topuria and footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. Clayton, participated in by Higini Cierco Palau and Francesc Destrée, joins as Wow FC expands amid surging interest in MMA across Europe. Events now draw thousands of spectators, with ticket sales rising sharply.

Wow FC nearly doubled revenue to €776,229 in 2024, the latest available figures, though losses worsened 375% to €1.19 million due to higher operating and financial expenses. The capital boost aims to strengthen finances for further growth and international outreach, leveraging Topuria and Ronaldo's profiles to build the brand.

Ronaldo publicly backed the venture last November, highlighting MMA's focus on discipline, respect, and excellence. His exact stake remains undisclosed.

This investment reflects the Cierco family's diversification push, including real estate, tourism, food, energy, and tobacco, fueled by third-generation leadership. Recent efforts involve capital injections into holdings and new subsidiaries.

Legal battles persist from BPA's 2015 intervention and Banco Madrid's liquidation, with the family alleging political motives and pursuing compensation. Several ex-executives face or have received convictions in money-laundering cases linked to a US Treasury complaint.

The third generation now plays a larger role in guiding the group's revival and expansion.