Sony Interactive Entertainment has sold its ownership stake in the Evolution Championship Series (EVO) to India-based NODWIN Gaming, a subsidiary of Nazara Technologies. The deal positions NODWIN as the majority shareholder of one of the fighting game community’s most prominent global tournaments.
Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. While Sony has stepped back from its ownership role, the company will continue to serve as a global sponsor for EVO through 2028, maintaining its presence at the tournament and supporting its international expansion.
The change in ownership follows EVO’s record-breaking 2025 event in Las Vegas, which drew more than 10,000 competitors across titles including Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, and Mortal Kombat 1. Organizers have announced plans to expand the series with new regional tournaments, including a debut in Europe.
NODWIN, which has recently expanded through acquisitions such as AFK Gaming, has raised $63 million in funding from investors including Sony Group Corporation and Pratithi Investments. EVO also named Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya initiative as a new global partner and RTS investor, further broadening its financial backing.
Sony’s continued sponsorship is expected to ensure PlayStation’s visibility at future EVO events, with opportunities to showcase new products and upcoming fighting game titles despite no longer holding an ownership stake.
