Tony Khan has multiple wrestling promotions to his name, and is the owner of All Elite Wrestling and Ring of Honor next in line to run WWE?
Since Vince McMahon’s return to WWE in January 2023, the billionaire has been focused on finding a new owner for the promotion and is reportedly hoping to sell for around $9 billion.
Though several names were reported as potential buyers, many have dropped out of the race, including UFC parent company Endeavor, and Comcast.
Tony Khan
At this time, AEW President Tony Khan remains a possible buyer of WWE and has expressed interest in the company.
While speaking on Wrestling ObserverRadio, Dave Meltzer noted Khan buying WWE is possible under the correct circumstances.
Meltzer said that Khan would need “a lot of partners” which is not out of the realm of possibility.
It was reiterated that Khan has expressed interest, saying that he is watching the WWE situation very closely, but no deal has been offered at this time.
Saudi Arabia
With Comcast, considered by many to be the favorite, seemingly out of the running, many believe it is just a matter of time before the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund buys WWE.
It has been reported that the Saudi PIF had already purchased WWE, though those reports were quickly debunked.
On his show, Meltzer said that other than the Saudis and the Khan family, nobody else has publicly expressed interest in buying WWE.
Speaking about the $9 billion asking price, Meltzer said that if the Saudis have agreed to this “highly inflated figure” then it’s unlikely anyone will match them.
It appears as if Endeavor isn’t interested in purchasing WWE.
Earlier today, Endeavor held a media call for the company’s stockholders. During the call, the company’s CEO, Ari Emanuel seemingly removed Endeavor’s name from the hat of potential WWE buyers:
“[WWE] is an unbelievable product… [Vince McMahon’s] business is really valuable.But we’re not going to do anything as it relates to changing our leverage position right now.”
“Vince McMahon is looking to get as much as $9 billion in a potential sale of World Wrestling Entertainment Inc.“The company has already received offers, said the people, who requested that they not be identified because the discussions are private. WWE declined to comment. Shares of WWE rose as much as 4.9% to $91.48 Friday in New York. As of the close Thursday, the asking price was 37% greater than the company’s $6.5 billion market value.”
SEScoops will provide any updates on the status of a WWE sale as they become available.
Pat McAfee has proven to be a hit with fans as part of the WWE SmackDown commentary team, but will a new owner push Pat out of the company?
The former NFL punter began serving as a guest commentator for WWE NXT TakeOver events in 2018, before signing with the promotion the following February.
In 2021, McAfee was moved to the SmackDown commentary table, but has been absent as of late due to his commitments to ESPN’s College Game Day.
In addition to commentary, McAfee has had a handful of matches in WWE, with his most recent bout seeing him defeat Baron Corbin at Summerslam 2022.
Unsure
At the WWE 2023 Royal Rumble, McAfee made his surprise return to commentary but did not appear on the following edition of SmackDown.
In a tweet, McAfee reflected on various parts of his life, including his role with WWE.
The Smackdown commentator said that while he loves working for WWE, the possibility of a new owner could make him reconsider his position with the promotion.
“Baby girl on the way… what’s that mean for my future with @WWE? I LOVE it but, they’re allegedly gonna be sold, who’s buying them? Do I want to work/make money for those people?”
Pat McAfee.
Other Plans
Of course, WWE is just part of McAfee’s life, and he has various successful ventures away from the ring.
Speaking about College Game Day, McAfee called it a “good time” but acknowledged that there was no long-term deal in place.
McAfee also spoke about reports of a defamation lawsuit from Bret Farve, saying that he is “allegedly” being sued.
Triple H may be one of the most influential names in WWE today, but the promotion’s Chief Content Officer would rather stay clear of talks of a potential sale.
Last month, Vince McMahon made his shocking return to WWE after retiring in July 2022 over allegations of misconduct which resulted in millions of dollars paid out in NDAs.
McMahon has returned to oversee a sale of the promotion, with names including Saudi Arabia, Amazon, Endeavor, and Tony Khan being listed as interested names.
Staying Out of It
The sale of WWE would be the biggest thing to happen to the promotion ever, but it is hardly the focus of Head of Talent/Head of Creative Triple H.
Speaking at the WWE Elimination Chamber post-show press conference, the Game said his concern is on producing quality programming and giving talent opportunities to shine.
“Depends on who is buying, I suppose. What the offer is, what the outcome is. Stay out of it, to me. That’s not a cop-out answer. I have the greatest gig in the world. I helped tonight, in some small way, create the magic we did here tonight. To me, it’s the best gig on the planet.
“As long we get to do this, as long as we get to create the way we get to create it, as long as we get to do our jobs and we get to go out there and put our passion on display, as long as our talent are allowed to put their passion on display and do what we do, I’m good. It is what it is.”
Triple H.
WWE CEO Nick Khan has previously said he expects a sale to be complete within the next three months.
Vince McMahon, Executive Chairman of WWE, is reportedly seeking $9 billion for the company, above the initially projected sale price of between $7.5 to $8.2 billion.
WWE Chairman Vince McMahon is asking for a steep price for the WWE, according to a new report.
The company is heading into an interesting situation as they look for a potential buyer. McMahon returned to power last month following his short retirement on July 22, 2022, following allegations of misconduct with female employees. His reason for his comeback to the WWE Board of Directors and Chairman position was to help the company sell or secure a TV deal.
While the company has yet to be sold, WWE CEO Nick Khan shared on Feb. 3 that fans may expect a sale in possibly three months. In a new update from Bloomberg’s Lucas Shaw, McMahon is looking for $9 billion for the WWE.
“Vince McMahon is looking to get as much as $9 billion in a potential sale of World Wrestling Entertainment Inc., the company he returned to run this year, according to people familiar with his thinking, said the report. It continues, “The company has already received offers, said the people, who requested that they not be identified because the discussions are private. WWE declined to comment. Shares of WWE rose as much as 4.9% to $91.48 Friday in New York. As of the close Thursday, the asking price was 37% greater than the company’s $6.5 billion market value.”
Potential Buyers For WWE
The report shares that Endeavor Group Holding Inc. is among the potential buyers looking to acquire WWE. Combat sports fans may recognize Endeavor as the current owner of the UFC. However, it is worth pointing out that the group bought the UFC for close to $6 billion in order to have full control of the company, which they needed numerous private equity firms, according to MMA Fighting’s Damon Martin. The Bloomberg article notes that Endeavor would need financial help in order to make the sell as their market cap value is $10.4 billion.
Other potential buyers could be the likes of Comcast, Fox, Netflix, Disney, and Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund. The article notes that McMahon “…Built the WWE into an international entertainment powerhouse that packs arenas and airs programs regularly on Fox Corp. and Comcast Corp.’s USA network.” To lose the potential TV rights to the WWE may not be in the best interest of Comcast or Fox. Comcast in particular has WWE’s library on their streaming service Peacock, which has helped them gain subscribers.
It’s unclear who will buy WWE. However, we know how much McMahon values his company.
WWE Executive Chairman Vince McMahon will be an incredibly wealthy (or rather, wealthier) man in the event of the promotion being sold.
The billionaire’s return to WWE in January 2023, came less than six months after his shocking retirement in July of last year in the hush-money
McMahon reportedly strong-armed his way back into WWE, threatening to vote down any sales offers of negotiated TV deals if he was not brought back to the company.
Show Me the Money!
McMahon has made it clear that his sole reason for returning to WWE is to facilitate a sale of the promotion.
While WWE is optimistic that the promotion will be sold for $8.5 billion, it has been estimated that the company will go for $8 billion.
In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer broke down how much key players will make in the event of a sale based on their current financial interests and investment.
Vince McMahon $2,552,969,558
Stephanie McMahon $170,842,415
Linda McMahon $50,320,030
Kevin Dunn $24,205,410
Nick Khan $13,837,200
Frank Riddick $10,931,948
Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque $8,323,822
Finding a Buyer
For McMahon to add over $2.5 billion to his account, a sale first needs to take place.
Companies reported as interested include FOX, Disney, Amazon, and the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, among others.
Comcast, considered by many to be the favorite to buy, is reportedly not interested, though that claim has been disputed by WWE CEO Nick Khan.
Khan has said that he estimates that the process will take approximately three months, meaning a deal should be finalized by the end of Spring this year.
AEW President Tony Khan wouldn’t mind adding another wrestling promotion to his portfolio.
Last month, Vince McMahon made his grand return to WWE’s board of directors, where he currently sits as Executive Chairman. The move came less than six months after he ‘retired’ after nearly four decades running the company.
McMahon has returned to facilitate a sale of the promotion. One of the most interesting names on the list is Tony Khan, the AEW founder, and head of Ring of Honor who has opposed WWE since 2019.
It is believed that if Khan and his father Shahid were to make an attempt to purchase WWE, they would seek the backing of at least one other financial partner.
Khan appeared on the Marke Hoke Show and was asked about his level of interest in the WWE’s ongoing attempts to find a buyer.
I don’t know exactly what will happen there. I’ve been told, and I think they’ve said publicly, that there may be a sale process. If there is a sale process, certainly I’m interested in it and potentially being involved in it. We’ll have to see what that process is, and who exactly they’ll let get involved in it. Certainly, I’m interested in it very much.
Vince McMahon’s return to WWE may be a short one, according to the company’s sole CEO Nick Khan.
The billionaire’s return less than a month ago came less than six months after his shocking retirement in July of last year.
McMahon reportedly strong-armed his way back into WWE, threatening to vote down any sales offers of negotiated TV deals if he was not brought back to the company.
Second Retirement
For decades, it was accepted that Vince McMahon would never retire, which made his actions last July all the more shocking.
Many (including those on WWE’s Board of Directors) believe that McMahon’s return is the wrong call, though the rise in stock price following his return says otherwise.
Speaking during the 2022 Q4 earnings call, WWE CEO Nick Khan said that McMahon will ultimately do what is best for WWE.
“Yes [he would step down from his sole role as Executive Chairman.] Without question. He’s declared it to the board. He’s declared it to us in management. It’s all about shareholder value. Obviously, he is a shareholder. So it’s not about what role he’ll have. It’s about maximizing that value opportunity.”
Nick Khan.
The Sale
At the time of his return, it was noted that McMahon is back to facilitate a sale of the promotion.
While some have been dubious that McMahon doesn’t have grander ambitions than merely overseeing the sale, Vince has kept away from WWE’s TV tapings and creative meetings.
Names interested in WWE include Comcast, FOX, Disney, Netflix, Amazon, the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, and Shahid & Tony Khan.
Could Vince McMahon actually be telling the TRUTH?!
The 77-year-old billionaire retired from WWE last July over allegations of misconduct with female employees, resulting in millions of dollars being paid in NDAs.
McMahon returned to WWE earlier this month and has since been appointed the promotion’s Executive Chairman.
Keeping his Word
When announcing his intention to return, McMahon made it clear that he was merely back to facilitate a sale of the promotion.
Names reported as potential buyers include Comcast, FOX, Netflix, Disney, Amazon, and the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, among others.
Many have been dubious of McMahon’s claim, and believe it is just a matter of time until he makes a play to take over previous roles such as Head of Creative.
In the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, it is reported that McMahon is remaining true to his word, and is rarely seen outside of meetings about the potential sale.
McMahon has not attended any TV tapings, nor has he appeared at any creative meetings yet.
Sources who spoke to the Observer that contrary to McMahon’s first era on top of WWE, he now leaves work at a normal time, rather than staying into the early morning.
The Sale
Though there was a time when the idea of Vince McMahon selling WWE seemed impossible, McMahon is seemingly fixated on making a sale go through.
While it had been reported that the Saudi PIF had purchased the company and were planning on turning it private, that was later debunked.
It is believed that WWE hopes for a sale to happen soon, before they have to renegotiate with their broadcast partners at the USA Network and FOX later this year.
WWE CEO Nick Khan has come a long way in his few years with the promotion, but he doesn’t consider himself the top dog.
Khan joined WWE in the summer of 2020 as the company’s president, replacing Michelle Wilson and George Barrios who had departed earlier that year.
Following Vince McMahon’s resignation in 2022, Khan was appointed co-CEO with Stephanie McMahon and now serves as the promotion’s sole CEO.
The Boss
Khan’s rise to the top of WWE has been unparallel in the company’s history, but even he acknowledges Vince McMahon as the head of the company.
On the Bill Simmons podcast, Khan spoke about the hierarchy in WWE and knows that he is not on top.
“My thought has always been that there’s only one boss at WWE and it ain’t me. Vince is obviously the founder, the creator of the company. He’s also the controlling shareholder, which is not a ‘work’ term. It’s a legal term. So it was always my point of view and Stephanie’s point of view that he would come back.
“There’s only one boss at WWE and it ain’t me.”
Nick Khan.
“I think the way he played it, to me, was smart. He went away for five, six months. The audience seems to like when somebody does that. He came back and took control back of his company as the controlling shareholder. It is a public company, it is a publicly-traded company. But with that controlling share, gave him a lot of authority and he used it and I applaud him for doing so.”
Retirement
For decades, it was assumed that Vince McMahon would never retire from WWE given his workaholic attitude.
Once he did retire, WWE’s entire corporate system needed changing, and at the time, many felt that the board of directors, now against McMahon due to the allegations of misconduct, forced him out of the door.
On the podcast, Khan refuted the idea that McMahon was forced out by anyone other than what he personally believed.
I didn’t see it as a force. I think Vince saw, the tonnage of things that were coming at him and us. One thing he’s always said, you’ll know as a long-time fan and I’m a long-time fan also, is he’ll do whatever is best for business. Whether it’s bringing the Ultimate Warrior back twenty years ago (referencing Warrior’s 1996 WWF return) or whatever it may be.
“I think at that moment in time, what was best for business was for him to step away for a while. So he did, and he really did step away. There was no ‘hey why are you doing this,’ or ‘I wouldn’t do it this way.’ It was, in my opinion, total freedom, for Stephanie, myself, and Triple H on the creative side.”
The Future
Once McMahon retired, fans thought that they would never see him again, only to be proven wrong by the 77-year-old billionaire for the second time.
Speaking about what the future may bring, Khan was optimistic that McMahon’s return will make a potential sale of WWE all the easier.
“It’s only been a week, but he really, I believe, what he said publicly about ‘hey, I’m here to engage in strategic alternatives and the media rights,’ so far the engagement has been that, and other board issues.”
“WWE is Vince. Vince is WWE.”
Nick Khan.
“It’s his company. To me, WWE is Vince. Vince is WWE and we’re going to do the best we can to keep a living company.”
When asked about McMahon reportedly speaking to multiple departments, Khan said there has been “zero” interactions between McMahon and the company’s creative team.
WWE Hall of Famer ‘Double J’ Jeff Jarrett has encouraged Vince McMahon to take the promotion private amid ongoing talks of a potential sale.
McMahon returned to WWE earlier this month to oversee a sale of the promotion, less than six months after retiring in July of last year.
The 77-year-old billionaire has been unanimously elected Executive Chairman following the resignation of his daughter Stephanie in the role.
Private
There’s no shortage of potential buyers for WWE, with names like Comcast, FOX, Disney, Netflix and even Tony & Shahid Khan being reported.
After it was reported that the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund had bought the company (which was later debunked) it was noted that the PIF intends to take WWE private.
On his ‘My World’ podcast, Jarrett, the founder of TNA/Impact Wrestling, suggested that WWE going private would be the right call.
“The professional wrestling industry is run much better in a private setting because there’s a vision, there’s a final decision maker, the buck stops with one person, it’s just how I think the success of our industry can thrive. “I think the wrestling industry can be much more successful if WWE is private.”
Jeff Jarett.
WWE became a publicly traded company in the Summer of 1999 and stock in the company rose dramatically this month following McMahon’s return.
Saudi Arabia PIF
With over $600 billion to its name, the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund has more than enough to purchase WWE.
Not only is the PIF expected to take WWE private if a sale goes through, but are expected by many to keep McMahon as the company’s key decision-maker.
The possibility of WWE being purchased by the Saudi PIF has been received poorly, with talent reportedly threatening to walk if a deal is reached.
Another long-time WWE higher-up has parted ways with the company in the latest shakeup to the company’s corporate landscape.
Earlier this month, Stephanie McMahon resigned as WWE’s Chairwoman and Co-CEO, with Vince McMahon replacing her as Executive Chairman.
Vince McMahon’s return was initially described as solely to oversee the sale of WWE though many have cast doubt on this claim given the billionaire’s new backstage role.
Stefanie Fiondella
Stephanie McMahon’s resignation has not been a one-off event, as it was reported this week that WWE’s Vice President of Communications Adam Hopkins has left the company.
In an update, PW Insider reports that Stefanie Fiondella, who also served in the capacity of Vice President of Communications, has resigned as well.
Fiondella joined WWE in 2004 as Vice President of Marketing & Communications Operations and after leaving in 2019, returned in 2021 for her final role.
Fiondella was also the co-chair for the WWE Women’s Affinity Group as well.
This latest resignation comes after WWE held a meeting earlier this month, in which employees were assured that little to nothing would change in corporate following Vince McMahon’s return.
Resignations
Fiondella and Hopkins are just the latest prominent names to exit WWE as more and more people have parted ways since McMahon’s return.
McMahon’s return to the board alongside former WWE co-Presidents Michelle Wilson and Geroge Barrios resulted in the removal of JoEllen Lyons Dillon, Jeffrey R. Speed, and Alan M. Wexler.
In response, Man Jit Singh and Ignace Lahoud chose to leave the board, citing that they felt McMahon’s return was wrong.
Singh’s departure is especially notable given that it was he who oversaw the investigation into McMahon last year.
However, his shareholders disagreed with his return and took action against McMahon. On Jan. 11, a WWE investor filed a fiduciary lawsuit regarding McMahon’s return to the company. The claims from investor Scott A. Fellows allege that the chairman asserted himself into his Chairman role illegally and that he disregarded the other WWE Board of Director members. Following the lawsuit filed by Fellows, it’s reported that McMahon is facing another similar lawsuit.
Sportico’s Michael Mccann has reported that the Detroit Police and Fire Retirement System has filed a lawsuit that they hope will prevent McMahon from selling the company and regaining control from the Board of Directors.
Mccann wrote the following quotes regarding the Detroit Police and Fire Retirement System complaint.
“…The complaint argues that McMahon has breached fiduciary duties as controlling stockholder by trying to “impose his personal will on WWE and its [board] by purporting to adopt a package of invalid and inequitable bylaw amendments that would hamstring the Board from making critical business decisions.”
Although McMahon owns approximately 39% of WWE’s equity, he enjoys far greater stockholder power due to the company’s financial configurations. According to the complaint, McMahon owns about 92% of outstanding Class B shares, which contain 10 votes per share, whereas Class A shares hold only one vote per share. “Overall,” the complaint asserts, “McMahon controls 81% of WWE’s total voting power,” wrote Mccann.
What Happens Next for Vince McMahon Lawsuit Issues
(via WWE)
The two lawsuits against McMahon both alleged that he had gone against the interest of the WWE’s business partners wrongfully. It’s also possible more cases will be filed against McMahon for similar grievances. The added lawsuit could halt McMahon from selling the company as fast as he could hope. However, WWE is still preparing to sell the company to buyers potentially.
Another thing to note in Mccann’s report is that he shared that the Detroit Police and Fire System Retirement believes that “…McMahon’s moves run afoul of both Section 141 of the Delaware General Corporation Law and WWE’s charter. Altering the company’s governance structure in the absence of bargained for exchange between WWE and McMahon, the system asserts, “usurps the power of the Board over critical corporate management functions and vests it solely in McMahon in his capacity as a stockholder.” Neither Delaware law nor WWE’s charter permits the kind of transfer of power the system says occurred, and the system wants a declaration the consent is void.”
Both lawsuits make the case that McMahon is wrong, and they have grounds to halt him from doing what he wants with WWE. The report adds at the end that the process of litigation could take some time and effectively complicate a sale from happening.
The Rock has offered up his reaction to rumors of a potential WWE sale going around.
Since the return of Vince McMahon to the WWE’s Board Of Directors, reports have been circulating suggesting that McMahon’s return is centered around the intention to help facilitate a trade of the company.
No deal has been made official just yet, however, during a recent interview with on CNBC’s “Squawk In The Street” show, WWE legend Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson offered his thoughts on the matter.
“Well, I can tell you this, I can tell you it’s an exciting brand. It’s a brand that I’ve been fortunate enough to have tremendous success in over the decades. We’ve seen tremendous success over the years. I think it’s a very attractive company.
“I’m excited, and I wish Vince [McMahon] and that company all the best. I think with the world of professional wrestling and the world of WWE it’s so unique. The fan base is very large and very passionate, and there’s nothing like the WWE.
“I think with the new owners if there are new owners, and acquirers that are going to come in, I think they have to share that same passion that Vince has for the company and for the world of pro wrestling, which isn’t always easy to do.
– The Rock
“With a company like this, it’s been so incredibly successful over the years, a sale and acquisition could be very complicated, but there’s that unique added anchor to this I believe to this that Vince feels where you gotta find the right buyer who still has that passion and love for this very unique world.”
Former professional wrestler @TheRock responds to reports of a possible sale of @WWE : "There's nothing like the $WWE…if there are new owners and acquirers that come in, they have to share that same passion that [executive chairman Vince McMahon] has for the company." pic.twitter.com/XGNQeNGh82
While it has been several years since The Rock last competed inside the WWE’s ring, it’s heavily believed that WWE is attempting to secure him for a massive bout at WrestleMania 39 later this year.
The idea being having The Rock face off against current Unified WWE Champion Roman Reigns at “The Show Of Shows.” However, it has yet to be confirmed whether or not that match will actually come to fruition when it’s all said and done.
Vince McMahon is back in charge of WWE, and it may be just a matter of time before he is on our television screens.
McMahon made his shocking return to WWE earlier this month, less than half a year after his resignation in July of last year.
The 77-year-old billionaire has returned to oversee the sale of WWE, with interested companies including Comcast, FOX, the Saudi PIF, and Shahid & Tony Khan, among others.
For years, Vince McMahon was a regular on WWE programming, with his feud with ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin being a key part of the Attitude Era.
Speaking on the latest Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer said there is a feeling in WWE that McMahon wants to be in front of the cameras one more time.
“It’s only been a little over a week, and everything has changed more rapidly than I expected. Between Stephanie leaving and Vince [being appointed Executive Chairman.] He is at the office, but he hasn’t been at TV yet. I say yet.
“I mean, is he going to go on TV? I don’t know, I know there are rumors running around that he will. I’ve asked people [in WWE] and they wouldn’t be surprised. But it’s not like there is a date. It’s not like we know he’s going to be on a week on Monday [Raw’s 30th Anniversary event] or he’s going to be at the Rumble.”
“There’s that feeling that Vince is going to want to go out on TV and he’ll get the big reaction.”
Dave Meltzer.
WOR: Bryan Alvarez and Dave Meltzer discuss Vince McMahon returning to WWE and apparently looking to get back in the creative side of the business. https://t.co/mYdKSjV7fmpic.twitter.com/er9XpLyOlg
One of the biggest concerns among talent and fans is that McMahon will do more than merely oversee the sale of WWE.
Many fear that McMahon will soon be back in charge as Head of Creative, a role that Triple H has been praised for his work in since July 2022.
On his show, Meltzer said that McMahon isn’t just focused on selling WWE.
“He is in the office. He is talking about things other than the sale. There will probably be more and more Vince ‘fingerprints’ as time goes on. As far as creative goes, it just depends on… who knows. If Vince wants it, he’ll work to get it. He may do it slowly.”
Dave Meltzer.
Meltzer added that ultimately, McMahon has the influence to overrule anyone in the company.
“Nick [Khan, CEO of WWE] is running the show, but that’s the same as Triple H and creative. I mean, that’s today but let’s see what tomorrow brings.”
The idea that McMahon’s ‘fingerprints’ being over WWE’s product was also discussed by Matt Hardy on his Extreme Life podcast last week.
Is Vince McMahon a crotchety old miser who is out of touch with what wrestling fans want?
Eric Bischoff isn’t so sure.
McMahon retired from WWE in July of last year but returned to the promotion this month to oversee a potential sale.
The 77-year-old billionaire has since been appointed Executive Chairman following the resignation of Stephanie McMahon.
Ageism
For years prior to his retirement, McMahon faced criticism from fans for being out of touch with what fans wanted.
Examples given include McMahon’s insistence on pushing certain talents over ones more beloved by fans, as seen with Roman Reigns in 2015.
Speaking on his 83 Weeks Podcast, Bischoff rejected the idea that McMahon is out of touch.
“The whole Vince is old and out of touch thing, you can argue that maybe creatively because you don’t like Vince’s vision of what wrestling should be, but it doesn’t mean that he is not in control of his faculties or that he’s missed a beat.”
“I think that’s internet wrestling chatter because people aren’t happy with what they’re seeing on television. ‘Oh, it’s because he’s too old.’ But no ageism, right?”
Eric Bischoff.
WWE Sale
It was just a few months ago that fans expected McMahon to spend his days out of the public eye after the scandals that forced him to retire.
Now McMahon has resumed his role in Titan Towers and will decide who purchases WWE if a sale goes ahead.
On his show, Bischoff argued that despite what some believe, McMahon has never seemed more on top of the wrestling world than right now.
“I would say the events of the last week would suggest that he is far from out of touch.”
Eric Bischoff.
Names listed as potential buyers of WWE include Comcast, FOX, Disney, Amazon, the Saudi Arabia PIF, and Shahid & Tony Khan.
Tony Khan may have proven himself to countless fans with the success of AEW, but would he make a good owner of WWE?
The past two weeks of news have been dominated with reports of Vince McMahon’s return to WWE, less than six months after his retirement.
McMahon returned to oversee a sale of the promotion and has replaced his daughter Stephanie as Executive Chairman.
Lacking
The list of names reportedly interested in buying WWE is lengthy and includes Comcast, FOX, Disney, Amazon, and the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund.
Tony Khan and his father Shahid are also on that list with sources close to the situation saying that the Khans are interested in a merger with WWE.
Speaking on his 83 Weeks Podcast, Eric Bischoff said that Khan may not have the necessary skills to take over from McMahon.
“Could it happen? Sure, anything is possible. But if you really think about it, does the Khan enterprise have the experience, knowledge, infrastructure, ability to run a company as complex as WWE?”
Eric Bischoff.
Bischoff added that while AEW and WWE may be in the same industry, they “don’t live and play in the same universe.”
Buying WWE
The Khans certainly have plenty of money to their name, but a solo purchase of WWE is seemingly off the table.
With WWE seeking a reported $8.5 billion for the promotion, any deal by the father-son duo is expected to be shared with another financial partner.
Wall Street analysts have said they expect WWE to sell this year for anywhere between $7.4 and $8.2 billion.
A lot is going on in WWE right now, but according to Kofi Kingston, the roster isn’t trying to think about rumors of a potential sale.
A veteran of WWE’s main roster since 2008, Kingston has seen plenty go down during his WWE tenure, including the recent retirement and return of Vince McMahon.
Kofi is in his first reign as NXT Tag Team Champions with Xavier Woods, and the New Day is the third WWE tag-team triple crown winner (behind FTR and the Street Profits.)
Focus
The past two weeks of wrestling news have been dominated by Vince McMahon’s return and his attempts to sell the promotion.
Speaking with SHAK Wrestling, Kingston said that no matter what happens, the roster’s focus remains the same.
“I think we all kind of have the same mentality Whatever happens outside of the company is going to happen. We really have no idea what’s transpiring. But our role, again, remains the same. It’s to go out there and put on great matches.”
Kofi Kingston.
Kingston added that the most important thing for him is to put on great matches for fans to enjoy.
“That’s the one thing, regardless of whoever’s in charge, or whoever owns this, that’s what we’re going to do. That’s what we’re always going to do. That is the most important thing. I think the mentality for us is just to kind of have laser vision and keep putting on great matches. That’s what we’re going to do.”
Kofi Kingston.
WWE Intercontinental Champion GUNTHER has also responded to reports of a possible sale of the promotion.
Names rumored to be interested in purchasing WWE include Comcast, FOX, Disney, Netflix, the Saudi Arabia PIF, Shahid & Tony Khan, and Endeavor, among others.
Vince McMahon is back in WWE and is back in charge once more, but for how long?
McMahon’s shocking return to WWE came last week when he was appointed to the Board of Directors and he has since been appointed Executive Chairman of the company.
It has been reported that McMahon did not work well with WWE’s previous Chairwoman (and his daughter) Stephanie McMahon, with WWE CEO Nick Khan serving as a buffer between them.
Out of a Job
The 77-year-old billionaire is back to oversee a sale of WWE, with numerous big names being listed as potential buyers.
While McMahon fought to get his roles back with WWE, he could be out of a job again if two of the listed buyers end up in control.
Sources within Disney and Comcast told Fightful that they are well aware of the rumors of both companies being interested in a purchase.
Those sources added that it would be hard to believe any major company would want to retain Vince’s services in any capacity in the event of a sale.
Disney and Comcast
To many, Comcast makes the most logical sense as a potential buyer of WWE, given the close connection already existing between the two.
Comcast is the parent company on NBC-Universal, which owns the USA Network, the current home of Monday Night Raw and WWE NXT.
NBC-Universal also owns Peacock, the home of the WWE Network in the United States.
As for Disney, the House of Mouse is no stranger to collecting IPs, including internationally known brands like Marvel and Star Wars.
A sale to Disney would not just mean WWE content on Disney+, but also the use of WWE’s property at theme parks around the world.
How much money would cause Vince McMahon to part ways with the creation he has overseen for close to half a century?
Last week, McMahon shocked the world with his return to WWE, months after his retirement in July of last year.
McMahon returned to oversee a sale of the promotion but has since been appointed Executive Chairman, replacing Stephanie McMahon.
Money Talks
For the right price, you could be the next owner of WWE, but it won’t come cheap.
In the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reports that Wall Street analysts expect WWE to sell for anywhere between $7.4 to $8.2 billion.
WWE is optimistic and is hoping for a sale figure of around $8.5 billion.
The Observer added that the acquisitions market has cooled off in recent days.
Meltzer also pointed out that a purchase from the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund would bring a lot of bad publicity to the promotion, but that would likely be temporary.
It is pointed out that the Saudis have purchased Newcastle United, and things have been business as usual since that purchase.
Going Private
It has been reported that if the Saudi PIF does purchase WWE, they intend to turn the company private once again.
In the Observer, Meltzer adds that Tony and Shahid Khan are also interested in taking the promotion private.
It was reported this week that the AEW President and his father are interested in a merger with WWE, but would pool their finances and resources with other groups.
WWE and the promotion’s new Executive Chairman Vince McMahon are bringing in some heavy hitters to aid in the potential sale of the promotion.
McMahon returned to WWE’s Board of Directors last week to aid with a potential sale, alongside former co-Presidents Michelle Wilson and George Barrios.
The return of the controversial 77-year-old founder resulted in multiple resignations from the board from individuals who disagreed with the decision for McMahon to return.
Now, a new statement from WWE has announced that more names are working with them, including The Raine Group, LLC as the promotion’s financial advisor.
Kirkland & Ellis LLP will serve as legal advisor and August LLC as strategic communications advisor to support WWE’s management team.
In a quote from Vince McMahon, the Executive Chairman spoke about the future of the promotion.
“WWE’s upcoming media rights cycle will take place amid a rapidly evolving media and entertainment landscape, and we believe exploring our strategic alternatives at this critical juncture will enable WWE to fully capitalize on the significant value of our intellectual property.
“I am highly confident that our outstanding Directors, outside advisors, and executive team will provide valuable expertise and counsel to help guide the Company through this important process while our management team and employee base continue to deliver results and content our fans love.”
Despite reports earlier this week that WWE had been purchased by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, it has since been clarified that no deal has been reached at this time.
In an update from CNBC, they are reporting that several sources familiar with the situation have confirmed that the Khans are interested in a merger.
The report adds that the Khans would not seek to buy WWE themselves, but would team with a financial group and pool their resources.
The idea is described by CNBC as a “long shot” given the hostility between WWE and AEW that has existed since the latter was founded in 2019.
Shahid Khan is said to have a net worth of $7.56 billion, and in addition to AEW, the Khans own the Jacksonville Jaguars NFL team, and the soccer club Fulham FC.
If this merger went ahead, it is unclear if the Khans would cease WWE production, keep the brand going, or create a new hybrid brand of WWE and AEW.
Competition
The Khans are interested in merging with WWE, but they’re not the only ones open to a deal.
This week, it was reported that the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund had purchased WWE, but those reports were later clarified to be premature.
As Dave Meltzer reported on Wrestling Observer Radio, WWE CEO Nick Khan recently spoke to Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company.
WWE issued a press release Thursday evening addressing the company’s exploration of a potential sale. WWE has engaged financial, legal and strategic communications advisors to support the review of “strategic alternatives to maximize value for all WWE stockholders and other stakeholders.”
Here is the press release, including a quote by the Executive Chairman Vince McMahon.
WWE ENGAGES OUTSIDE ADVISORS TO SUPPORT REVIEW OF STRATEGIC ALTERNATIVES
STAMFORD, Conn., January 12, 2023 – WWE (NYSE: WWE) today announced that it has retained The Raine Group, LLC as financial advisor, Kirkland & Ellis LLP as legal advisor, and August LLC as strategic communications advisor to support WWE’s management team and its Board of Directors in connection with a review of strategic alternatives to maximize value for all WWE stockholders and other stakeholders.
Vince McMahon, WWE’s Founder and Executive Chairman said:
“WWE’s upcoming media rights cycle will take place amid a rapidly evolving media and entertainment landscape, and we believe exploring our strategic alternatives at this critical juncture will enable WWE to fully capitalize on the significant value of our intellectual property. I am highly confident that our outstanding Directors, outside advisors and executive team will provide valuable expertise and counsel to help guide the Company through this important process while our management team and employee base continue to deliver results and content our fans love.”
– Vince McMahon
There can be no assurances given regarding the outcome or timing of the strategic alternatives review process. WWE does not intend to comment further until the process has concluded or the Company has otherwise determined that further disclosure is appropriate or required.
# # #
About WWE WWE, a publicly traded company (NYSE: WWE), is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The Company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family-friendly entertainment on its television programming, premium live events, digital media, and publishing platforms. WWE’s TVPG programming can be seen in more than 1 billion homes worldwide in 30 languages through world class distribution partners including NBCUniversal, FOX, BT Sport, Sony India and Rogers. The award-winning WWE Network includes all premium live events, scheduled programming and a massive video on-demand library and is currently available in more than 180 countries. In the United States, NBCUniversal’s streaming service, Peacock, is the exclusive home to WWE Network.
McMahon reportedly strong-armed his way back into WWE by threatening to withdraw support from all future TV rights negotiations and possible sales.
Benefit
Matt Hardy’s days with WWE are behind him, as he left in 2020, but he still keeps a close eye on the competition.
On the latest Extreme Life podcast, Hardy explained how chaos and unpredictability in WWE can only help AEW.
“Vince McMahon is back and he is the head. He is sitting as the head of the table of WWE currently. We also have Stephanie gone so there’s obviously been a big shake-up. There is a lot of cells, rumors, and innuendo going around, and if you ask me more than anything who benefits from all this? I would say AEW so I’m very happy to be at AEW currently right now. AEW has been producing great content.”
“Who benefits from all this? I would say AEW.”
Matt Hardy on the ongoing power plays in WWE.
Hardy summarised his view on the situation by putting it into context with an analogy from Game of Thrones.
“One thing I love about it is at WWE, they’re playing Games of Thrones It’s like in and out. Who can retain the power and who can backstab? Who can get someone else out or how can I get back in whatever it may be. Here, fortunately, it is just TK [Tony Khan] sitting on the Iron Throne.”
Skeletons in the Closet
There were years, decades even, when the idea of Vince McMahon retiring seemed impossible.
Once McMahon did resign due to allegations of misconduct with female employees, fans thought they’d never see him return.
On his podcast, Hardy discussed McMahon’s controversial comeback and suggested that there are more secrets that could be revealed.
“It was very controversial whenever Vince ended up leaving [in July 2022.] Some of the accusations against him. And I don’t know, considering how much pro wrestling has started to begin mirroring society which is a good thing that it has it’s no longer the wild west it is starting to try and mirror society and run a parallel to how society is. Be a little more moral. But like the Vince thing could end up being very controversial because there are a lot of skeletons in those closets.”
In all statements by WWE so far, there has been no reference to the allegations of misconduct or the millions of dollars McMahon paid in NDAs.
Fingerprints
Prior to McMahon’s return, the ex-CEO stated his attempted comeback was merely to oversee WWE’s sale to another company.
Many are skeptical (especially now that McMahon is Executive Chairman) with fans fearing he will usurp Triple H as Head of Creative.
Hardy said that while McMahon may have only returned for the sale as stated, it may be difficult for him to break old habits.
“I feel like even if Vince is being sincere about that, he won’t be able to control himself like that. If he is back, he is going to put his fingerprints on things. It’s just who he is. It’s absolutely who it is.”
“He won’t be able to control himself.”
Matt Hardy on Vince McMahon.
“There was someone, I would just say randomly, without mentioning names, who said, ‘Raw felt different on Monday. I’ve got a feeling Vince may have had his fingerprints on it.’ Which is interesting.”
McMahon’s roster has not gone down well with WWE’s roster, with some threatening to walk out of the promotion if the rumored deal with Saudi Arabia goes ahead.
GUNTHER says he’s not concerned about WWE sale rumors. He’s leaving that stuff to the executives so he can focus on doing what he does best: winning his matches.
Your reigning Intercontinental champion spoke with the Dallas Morning News this week to promote WWE’s upcoming Royal Rumble premium live event from San Antonio, TX.
It’s been an eventful news week for WWE, to say the least. Stephanie McMahon officially departed the company and Vince is back as Executive Chairman of the WWE Board of Directors. There was also the run-away rumor that WWE sold to Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which has since been debunked.
During a conversation with reporter Joey Hayden, Gunther was asked for his take on the prospect of Vince McMahon selling WWE to the Saudis.
“I mean, rumors are rumors. And at the end of the day, I’m not the CEO. I’m a wrestler. So, I focus on what I do in the ring and leave the business to the people that do business.”
– GUNTHER
Gunther was also asked about Stephanie McMahon’s resignation, which caught a lot of people off guard. The Austrian grappler says he doesn’t really know her well, but respects her decision to spend more time with her family.
“I’m happy for her that she’s going to be able now to take time off and enjoy time with her family,” he said. “I think you should be happy for anyone who’s in a position to do that. All the best to her.”
