Activision Blizzard confirms they have acquired Major League Gaming

Activision Blizzard has confirmed that they have acquired Major League Gaming’s entire business, following the leak from last week.

As part of the agreement, Major League Gaming will become part of Activision Blizzard’s Media Networks division, which is led by former ESPN CEO Steve Bornstein and MLG co-founder Mike Sepso, and MLG will continue to operate MLG.tv, MLG Pro Circuit, Game Battles and more.

Bobby Kotick, Chief Executive Officer of Activision Blizzard, said, “Our acquisition of Major League Gaming’s business furthers our plans to create the ESPN of esports. MLG’s ability to create premium content and its proven broadcast technology platform – including its live streaming capabilities – strengthens our strategic position in competitive gaming. MLG has an incredibly strong and seasoned team and a thriving community. Together, we will create new ways to celebrate players and their unique skills, dedication and commitment to gaming. We are excited to add Sundance and the entire MLG esports team to our competitive gaming initiatives.”

One thing that is different from last week’s leak is that Sundance DiGiovanni will remain at MLG as the CEO, working with Activision Blizzard Media Networks on future MLG projects.

Sundance DiGiovanni, Chief Executive Officer and MLG Co-founder, said, “Our mission for over 12 years has been to promote and expand the growth of competitive gaming worldwide, and today the industry is at a key inflection point as its popularity soars and rivals that of many traditional professional sports. This acquisition and Activision Blizzard’s commitment to competitive gaming will expand the opportunities for gamers to be recognized and celebrated for their competitive excellence.”

Mike Sepso, Senior Vice President of Activision Blizzard Media Networks and MLG Co-founder, said, “Sundance and I founded MLG to highlight the incredible talent of competitive gamers all over the world. Activision Blizzard’s esports leadership, incredible intellectual property and long history in competitive gaming create a perfect home for MLG’s capabilities. The acquisition of MLG’s business is an important step towards Activision Blizzard Media Networks’ broader mission to bring esports into the mainstream by creating and broadcasting premium esports content, organizing global league play and expanding distribution with key gaming partners.”

With this agreement, Activision Blizzard’s MLG will continue to work on providing events for other major titles, including Halo 5: Guardians event and Counter Strike: Global Offensive.