The Rock: “I Have Never Imagined That Vince McMahon Would Sell WWE”
In WWE’s long history, something significant has happened: The McMahon family no longer owns most of the company. In April, Vince McMahon sold WWE to Endeavor and, together with Endeavor’s CEO Ari Emanuel, announced plans to merge WWE with another sports entertainment giant, UFC. This merger became official recently, creating a new publicly traded company called “TKO.” Right now, there aren’t many immediate changes because WWE and UFC are continuing with their usual operations. However, in the long run, we might see joint events featuring WWE premium live shows and UFC pay-per-views happening in the same cities. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson recently talked about the WWE-UFC merger and Vince McMahon’s sale of WWE on “The Pat McAfee Show.” The Rock admitted that he never expected WWE to be owned by someone outside the McMahon family. He also mentioned that while it was somewhat surprising, it wasn’t completely unexpected considering McMahon’s big vision and perspective. The Rock and McMahon have a long history together. The Rock said, “No, I never thought he would sell the company but I’m not surprised because he’s always about the big picture, he’s always about growth. You think about where he’s come from, from his first WrestleMania to now what the company is valued at, and this merger is incredible.” This isn’t the first time The Rock has shared his thoughts on the WWE sale. Earlier this year, the former WWE Champion mentioned that WWE and UFC working together directly had been a long time coming. He believes it will go smoothly and that the people involved have known each other for a very long time. The Rock sees this merger as a way to create an amazing entertainment conglomerate that will entertain a broad audience.
Vince McMahon Likely To Be Forced Down As WWE Chairman Following Federal Govt Investigation
The past year has been quite eventful for Vince McMahon, WWE, and its fans. McMahon had to step away from his role in the company due to a scandal involving secret payments. However, he managed to return in January and later agreed to merge WWE with the UFC under the TKO Group Holdings company. This merger went through, even though the federal government was investigating McMahon’s undisclosed payments related to the scandal that occurred last summer. These payments were not included in WWE’s annual financial reports. It is alleged that McMahon paid over $14.6 million to several women, including former WWE employees, to keep them from talking about accusations of sexual misconduct and infidelity dating back to 2006. Additionally, he paid $5 million to the Donald Trump Foundation for Trump’s appearances on television in 2007 and 2009. On July 17, federal authorities executed a search warrant after a federal grand jury approved a subpoena for McMahon. However, as of now, no charges have been filed against him. Jacob Frenkel, the Chair of Dickinson Wright’s Government Investigations & Securities Enforcement Practice Group and a former senior counsel in the SEC’s Division of Enforcement, explained to the LA Times that McMahon might face legal consequences, possibly leading to his removal from his role at WWE. “Depending on the outcomes of the investigation into Vince McMahon, he could potentially face criminal and/or civil penalties that might disqualify him from serving as an officer or director of a public company.” In January, when Vince McMahon forcefully returned to the company, Ignace Lahoud, a former WWE board member, resigned. He explained his departure, saying, “It didn’t align with my understanding of good governance, and there was a disconnect with my values.” Lahoud also mentioned, “He [McMahon] said, ‘Okay, do whatever you guys need to do. I’m not going to stand in your way.’ Of course, when the board suggested that he step down, he wasn’t pleased about it, but he complied.” Someone close to one of the former board members who left the company stated that McMahon perceived the investigation as an act of disloyalty, despite understanding that the board was simply fulfilling its duties.
How Would You Rate The Last Episode Of WWE Raw Under Vince McMahon’s Hierarchy
WWE Raw signaled the end of a couple of significant eras. First, this edition of Raw marked the conclusion of the yearly pre-football period. Monday night signaled the return of Monday Night Football, with a star-studded premiere featuring Aaron Rodgers and the revamped New York Jets against perennial contender Buffalo Bills. Following a successful year for Raw ratings, the show’s viewership will need to stay strong. When WWE wrapped up Monday Night RAW at the Norfolk Scope in Virginia, it also marked the end of the McMahon era in professional wrestling. Vince McMahon, who led World Wrestling Entertainment for decades, is stepping down from his role as the ultimate authority of the company. Last week, WWE and Endeavor issued a press release announcing the merger of the wrestling company and the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) to form a new publicly traded company called TKO Group Holdings. Earlier this year, Endeavor acquired WWE as part of a massive $21 billion deal. McMahon will continue to oversee WWE as its Chairman. Matt Riddle has experience working in both WWE and UFC, but the troubled Raw star is now embroiled in controversy. Riddle was reportedly removed from tonight’s Raw after an incident at JFK airport, where he claimed to have been sexually assaulted by a Port Authority police officer. This claim triggered an investigation, and Riddle, who recently returned to WWE after rehab, is likely to be off WWE television for the time being. In the press release, WWE stated, “Endeavor Group Holdings, Inc. (‘Endeavor’) and World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (‘WWE’) have announced their anticipation of finalizing the previously disclosed transaction to establish TKO Group Holdings Inc. (‘TKO’) on September 12, 2023, at which time TKO will begin trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol ‘TKO’.” Despite the change in ownership, McMahon will remain as the executive chairman of WWE once the Endeavor deal is finalized. Nevertheless, he will now answer to a new superior, Ari Emanuel, who serves as the CEO of Endeavor. Emanuel will also serve as the chief executive of TKO Group, which will hold a 51 percent ownership stake in WWE. The remaining 49 percent of the company’s shares will be held by WWE stakeholders. The deal will not impact the UFC’s hierarchy significantly, as Dana White will continue to serve as the president of the MMA promotion company. Meanwhile, Nick Khan will remain in his role as the CEO and Chief Revenue Officer of WWE. The official confirmation of Endeavor taking over ownership came in April. During that period, McMahon issued a statement, declaring, “Considering the remarkable achievements of Ari (Ariel Emanuel, CEO of Endeavor) and Endeavor in expanding the UFC brand, almost doubling its revenue in the past seven years, and the substantial success we’ve experienced by collaborating with their team on numerous ventures, I am confident that this is unquestionably the optimal outcome for our shareholders and other stakeholders,” as reported by Metro. While hinting at the merger, McMahon added, “Together, we will be a $21+ billion live sports and entertainment powerhouse with a collective fanbase of more than a billion people and an exciting growth opportunity.” In July last year, McMahon abruptly announced his retirement from his position within WWE due to several allegations of sexual misconduct. He later returned to oversee the potential sale of the wrestling promotion company. Initially, the Board of Directors refused to accept the offer, but they had to reinstate McMahon after he threatened to use his voting power to regain his position. Being a Class B stockholder of WWE, McMahon possesses the authority to obstruct the sale of the company. From that perspective, the September 11 episode of WWE Raw was historic as it officially marked the end of the Vince McMahon era in sports entertainment, which lasted for more than four decades. Vince has held the majority ownership of WWE since he acquired the WWWF from his father in 1982. From starting as a US-based wrestling company, he worked tirelessly to transform it into a global wrestling empire, solidifying Vince’s legacy. Shows like WWE Raw and Smackdown also emerged in the ’90s and early 2000s to spread WWE programming worldwide. With Vince at the helm and stars like The Undertaker, The Rock, Stone Cold, John Cena, Triple H, and more performing under him, WWE became one of the most renowned sporting events in the world. While Vince McMahon will still have a role in the new business and serve as TKO’s Executive Chairman, his sole ownership of a pro wrestling company has come to an end. He will no longer have the final say on WWE Raw/Smackdown programming unless the newly formed board agrees. With that, the McMahon era in WWE has officially concluded. It’s worth noting that Nia Jax, one of the first signings made by McMahon upon his return, also made her return during last night’s episode of WWE Raw. For the final RAW under the McMahon era, the company featured high-profile and significant matches. Rhea Ripley successfully defended her Women’s World Title against Raquel Rodriguez (Dominik Mysterio was banned from ringside), with the assistance of the returning Nia Jax. After the match, Nia Jax attacked Rhea Ripley. Originally, Cody Rhodes was supposed to start the show, but Jey Uso and Kevin Owens began the show instead, leading to a match against The Judgment Day. It appears that despite this being the last solely McMahon-owned WWE RAW, Vince McMahon was not present tonight. How would you rate the last episode of WWE Raw under Vince McMahon’s hierarchy?
Matt Cardona Expresses Desire To Return To WWE: Appeals To Vince McMahon
The former WWE Superstar Matt Cardona wishes to get back to the WWE. Matt Cardona was also known as Zack Ryder. In a recent tweet, Matt Cardona signalled his wish to make a return. he urged WWE Chairman Vince McMahon to reach him out. Cardona, whose career with WWE spanned an impressive 15 years, was let go from the company three years ago. While his departure might have seemed like a setback to many, he demonstrated resilience by forging an impressive path for himself on the independent wrestling circuit. His prowess in the ring and his undeniable charisma quickly led him to be dubbed by fans as the “Indy God.” A title that showcases the respect he has garnered within the independent wrestling community. But for all the accolades and recognition, it seems Cardona might be missing the grandeur and pomp of the WWE Universe. He recently shared a candid moment with his followers, documenting the aftermath of a GCW show he headlined in Brooklyn. Battling the elements as rain poured down, Cardona shared his sentiments about his current place in the wrestling world and the longing he has for the familiar surroundings of WWE. Expressing his emotions, Cardona detailed his struggle post-match as he navigated the rainy streets of Brooklyn, worrying about the state of his parked car. Through this raw and genuine moment, he made it clear that his recent experiences, such as walking in the rain and dealing with the day-to-day challenges of the independent scene, have made him nostalgic for his days in WWE. The crux of his message was an appeal to WWE’s iconic figurehead, Vince McMahon. Cardona articulated his desire to return to New York, the epicenter of WWE, and urged McMahon to get in touch. His words conveyed a mixture of frustration, passion, and yearning. It’s a sentiment that resonated with many of his fans, who remember his journey in WWE and his rise to fame as Zack Ryder. Cardona’s career in WWE saw many highs and lows. He managed to create a dedicated fan base, known for their emphatic chants of “Woo Woo Woo,” a catchphrase that Ryder made famous. Despite not always being in the spotlight, he remained a beloved figure in the latter years of his tenure. His departure was a shock to many of those fans who had hoped to see him claim more significant achievements within the company. Since leaving WWE, Cardona’s journey in independent wrestling has not been without its accolades. His matches have drawn significant attention, especially those in the deathmatch genre, earning him the title “Death Match King.” These extreme matches showcase a different side of Cardona, one that contrasts with the persona fans were accustomed to during his WWE days. We will have to wait for how WWE and Chairman Vince McMahon respond to this. With WWE known for the surprises, we think, there might be a twist and a door for Matt Cardona to WWE. It can be a full-time contract or a single appearance to the WWE Universe.
Former WWE Writer dismisses claim against WWE’s Vince McMahon
Former WWE creative writer Britney Abrahams has voluntarily withdrawn her racial discrimination lawsuit against both Vince McMahon and WWE. This withdrawal follows a request for dismissal made in the United States District Court of the Eastern District of New York. The dismissal applies to “all claims and causes of action against the defendants” without prejudice, allowing the possibility of reopening the case at a later time. The lawsuit originally targeted various defendants, including Vince McMahon, Stephanie McMahon, and several WWE writers. However, this particular motion of dismissal exclusively pertained to the claims against these named individuals. This suggests that Abrahams and her legal team may still be contemplating the pursuit of legal action against WWE as an organization. Vince McMahon’s racial discrimination lawsuit is withdrawn Abrahams’ lawsuit alleged that she faced discriminatory treatment and retaliation after raising concerns about offensive and racially insensitive storyline concepts during her tenure as a WWE writer. Some of these concepts involved portrayals such as Apollo Crews adopting a caricatured Nigerian accent and implicating Mansoor in the events of September 11. Though the precise reasons behind Abrahams’ decision to withdraw the lawsuit against the named defendants remain unclear, speculation has arisen that she and her legal representatives might be exploring the potential for a settlement with WWE. The dismissal, made without prejudice, leaves open the possibility for Abrahams to refile the lawsuit in the future. Former WWE writer Britney Abrahams has dismissed her lawsuit alleging racial discrimination and retaliation for her complaints about racially insensitive scripts. Initially filed against WWE, Vince McMahon, and other executives, the lawsuit claimed that Abrahams faced discrimination and retaliation for speaking out against “offensively racist and stereotypical jargon” in relation to WWE stars like Bianca Belair, Apollo Crews, Mansoor, and others. Abrahams asserted that her complaints were ignored and subsequently resulted in her termination. The filing stated the following: The filing states: “Pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 41(a)(1)(i), Plaintiff Britney Abrahams, by and through her attorneys, THE COCHRAN FIRM, hereby gives notice that the above captioned action is voluntarily discontinued without prejudice as to all claims and causes of action against defendants CHRIS DUNN, individually, RYAN CALLAHAN, individually, JENIFFER PEPPERMAN, individually, CHRISTINE LUBRANO, individually, MIKE HELLER, individually, VINCE MCMAHON, individually, STEPHANIE MCMAHON, individually, with each party bearing that party’s own attorney’s fees and costs. Dismissal is proper under this section because the Defendants have not yet answered the complaint in this matter.” Reported by Fightful, Abrahams requested the dismissal of the lawsuit on Thursday. The dismissal was made “without prejudice,” which implies the possibility of refiling the lawsuit at a later date.
Report claims Vince McMahon still heavily involved in WWE’s Creatives
The level of Vince McMahon’s involvement in WWE creative has long been a topic of interest and speculation among fans and media. Triple H, WWE Chief Content Officer and McMahon’s son-in-law, recently shed light on this matter during a press conference following SummerSlam. While acknowledging McMahon’s significant contributions, Triple H clarified the extent of McMahon’s engagement with the creative process. Vince McMahon still helps out Triple H with WWE Creatives Vince McMahon’s impact on WWE and the wrestling industry as a whole has been profound. His vision and innovation have shaped the business for decades, resulting in sustained success and growth. Triple H highlighted how McMahon’s unique perspective and decision-making have led to transformative changes in the wrestling landscape, making WWE what it is today. Triple H emphasized the value of seeking counsel from Vince McMahon. Despite not being involved in day-to-day creative operations, McMahon’s wealth of knowledge and experience remains a valuable resource for the company. Triple H stressed that it would be unwise not to tap into McMahon’s insights, particularly when facing pivotal decisions or seeking guidance on various aspects of the wrestling business. Triple H’s description of working alongside McMahon portrays a respectful balance. While McMahon isn’t immersed in the creative process on a daily basis, his contributions are sought out when necessary. This approach reflects both the respect McMahon has earned within the industry and the acknowledgment of his role as a guiding force in WWE’s history. Vince McMahon’s influence in WWE’s creative realm is not a black-and-white matter. It’s a dynamic interaction that considers both the evolution of the wrestling industry and the role McMahon plays as a seasoned leader. As WWE continues to evolve and adapt, McMahon’s presence remains a powerful asset, providing a link to the past while contributing to the company’s present and future.
Vince McMahon delivered prophetic prediction for WWE Superstar Logan Paul
YouTube sensation Logan Paul’s foray into the WWE universe was a surprising evolution that culminated in his WrestleMania 38 appearance. Paul’s initial steps in the wrestling ring had been preceded by non-wrestling engagements, gradually building up to his tag team bout with The Miz against The Mysterios at WrestleMania 38. As he reflects on this journey, Paul recounts the unexpected trajectory that led him to the heart of WWE. During a conversation on the Stephen A. Smith Show, Paul elaborated on his debut match and the unforeseen resonance it had with the audience. Sharing his perspective on an iconic move, Paul mentioned executing an Eddie Guerrero-inspired shimmy that elicited a mix of cheers and boos from the crowd. This dynamic response, he noted, is integral to WWE’s showmanship, where both cheers and boos contribute to the spectacle. Logan Paul claims Vince McMahon made prophetic prediction about his future However, Paul’s recounting of the story takes an even more significant turn backstage. Upon returning from the ring, he was greeted with the news that WWE Chairman Vince McMahon had personally acknowledged his potential. McMahon’s words, “Oh, your future is here,” signaled a transformative endorsement that crystallized Paul’s newfound path within WWE. This endorsement, coming from the man steering the WWE ship, carried immense weight and promise. Paul’s journey has continued to unfurl with undeniable momentum. Recently, he competed at SummerSlam, securing a victory over Ricochet with assistance from an ally. This victory marked a continuation of his upward trajectory, following his previous win against The Miz at the same event a year prior. The narrative of an outsider quickly proving his mettle and impressing both fans and WWE brass underscores the captivating story that has unfolded. Embracing his role within WWE, Paul reaffirmed his commitment to the squared circle. He expressed his dedication to each match, willing to give his all and garner positive reactions from the audience. With a multi-year contract in place, Paul’s enthusiasm and passion for wrestling are evident. His rapid journey from outsider to an essential part of WWE’s narrative illustrates his adaptability and willingness to embrace the world of sports entertainment. Logan Paul’s WWE journey encapsulates the essence of unpredictability that defines professional wrestling. From his unforeseen debut to the ringing endorsement by Vince McMahon, Paul has carved a unique niche for himself. As he continues to evolve within the WWE universe, his story becomes a testament to the fluidity of narratives and the surprising emergence of unexpected heroes.
After recent Law Enforcement probe, Vince McMahon and WWE in murky legal waters again?
WWE Executive Chairman Vince McMahon has found himself entangled in a whirlwind of legal challenges, including a lawsuit filed by Dana W. Miley, adding to his ongoing recovery from spinal surgery and the upcoming WWE-UFC merger. While the federal warrant and grand jury indictment serve as serious legal concerns, a peculiar lawsuit from Miley has also surfaced, making McMahon’s legal landscape even more intricate. According to PWInsider, a lawsuit has been directed at both McMahon and WWE by Dana W. Miley, alleging breach of contract and failure to reimburse a $5.5 thousand down payment for a fan meet-up with Alexa Bliss, erroneously referred to as Alexia Bliss in the lawsuit. The lawsuit also claims that McMahon breached an agreement that would have seen Miley become a WWE employee with a substantial monthly salary of $70 thousand. Vince McMahon and the WWE receives a bizarre handwritten lawsuit During WWE’s second-quarter 2023 financial report submission to the Securities and Exchange Commission, the company officially confirmed the unfolding events. The disclosure stated, “On July 17, 2023, federal law enforcement agents executed a search warrant and served a federal grand jury subpoena on Mr. McMahon. No charges have been brought in these investigations.” McMahon steadfastly maintains his innocence and denies any deliberate wrongdoing related to the matter. Amidst these legal tumults, a new lawsuit, steeped in peculiarity, has emerged, with WWE and McMahon at its epicenter. Curiously, the lawsuit draws Alexa Bliss into its narrative. The lawsuit has been initiated by Dana W. Wiley, according to court documents obtained by PWInsider. Wiley’s legal action targets both Vince McMahon and WWE in the United States District Court of The Western District of Pennsylvania. The crux of Wiley’s complaint revolves around an alleged breach of contract and the failure to reimburse a $5,500 “down payment hangout, what app email contract to personal fan meet World Wrestling Entertainment employee Alexia (sic) Bliss,” which reportedly transpired on 6/30. Miley’s lawsuit, handwritten and currently unserved to defendants, takes an even more bizarre turn by accusing McMahon and WWE of prejudice. Miley alleges that after his arrest in October 2022 for attempted homicide and aggravated assault, his phone and property were unlawfully seized during the arrest. Furthermore, he claims a conspiracy theory plot to suppress evidence, involving WWE employee Alexia Bliss sending email and text messages to him. Adding to the surreal nature of the situation, this isn’t the first time Miley has taken legal action against WWE. In 2019, he filed a lawsuit alleging a fair use contract for rights to use the names D-X and NWO, names associated with wrestling groups before their formation in WWE and WCW. However, this lawsuit was ultimately dismissed. This legal saga provides a bizarre twist in McMahon’s challenging times, where his legal troubles have taken unexpected and surreal dimensions. As McMahon navigates these intricate legal waters, his ongoing recovery from spinal surgery and the evolving landscape of WWE’s merger with UFC add further complexity to his plate.
The WWE and Vince McMahon respond to Grand Jury Subpoena in separate statements
A recent development has cast a spotlight on WWE’s Executive Chairman, Vince McMahon, as federal law enforcement agents executed a search warrant and served a federal grand jury subpoena on July 17. This event has ignited discussions about the ongoing investigation and its implications. Both WWE and McMahon have offered statements in response to these developments, shedding light on their perspectives and affirming their commitment to a thorough process. Vince McMahon is confident recent probe will be resolved without issue In an unexpected turn of events, WWE disclosed that Vince McMahon was served with a search warrant and federal grand jury subpoena. This occurrence comes as a continuation of an investigation that reportedly commenced last summer. Despite the intensity of the situation, it is important to note that no charges have been filed against McMahon at the time of this report. The specifics of the warrant and subpoena remain veiled in uncertainty, leaving room for speculation and conjecture. In response to the unfolding events, Vince McMahon released a statement that provides insight into his stance. He highlighted that in 2022, WWE established a special committee to address allegations of misconduct against him. He emphasized that the committee’s review, which concluded in November 2022, followed a meticulous investigation. Throughout this ordeal, McMahon maintained his steadfast denial of any intentional wrongdoing. He expressed confidence that the ongoing government investigation would ultimately vindicate him and alleviate any suspicions of misconduct. McMahon’s statement also underscored his dedication to recovering from recent spinal surgery and ensuring the successful closure of WWE’s merger with Endeavor, a transformational step in the creation of a global sports and entertainment powerhouse. WWE, as an entity, also weighed in on the situation. The company’s statement conveyed an understanding of the government’s need for a comprehensive process and its commitment to cooperation. WWE positioned itself as a willing participant in the ongoing investigation, asserting that it had cooperated diligently from the outset. This cooperative stance aligns with WWE’s commitment to transparency and accountability. As the investigation unfolds, the landscape remains dynamic and subject to change. The timing of the investigation coincided with Vince McMahon’s major spinal surgery, which took place shortly after the subpoena was served. Despite this medical setback, WWE confirmed that McMahon would retain his role as Executive Chairman during his medical leave. This decision underscores the company’s dedication to maintaining its operational momentum, especially as it approaches a significant merger with UFC under Endeavor.
Vince McMahon Heartfelt Gesture: A Personal Call to Ex-WWE Star Following His Mother’s Death
In a heartwarming revelation that has caught the attention of wrestling fans and beyond, ex-WWE star Maven has shared a touching memory about WWE’s Chairman, Vince McMahon. In a recent YouTube video, Maven detailed the extraordinary kindness he received from McMahon when his mother passed away from cancer in 2004. Maven’s Connection with WWE Maven, who performed in WWE during the iconic Ruthless Aggression Era from 2001 to 2005, has often maintained a low profile since leaving the company. Recently opening his own YouTube channel, Maven took the opportunity to share his thoughts on various WWE personalities, including the wrestling magnate Vince McMahon. One of the most remarkable anecdotes Maven shared was about a personal phone call he received from McMahon himself on the very night his mother passed away. Maven’s heartfelt appreciation for McMahon’s empathy was palpable as he narrated the event. A Shared Tragedy Maven said, “A lot of people don’t realize it, but Vince lost a parent from cancer. In 2004, I lost my mom to cancer, and the very night that she passed away, I didn’t get a call from a secretary, I didn’t get a text, I got a personal phone call from Vince to tell me how truly sorry he was. That meant the world to me.“ The fact that both Maven and McMahon had lost a parent to cancer added an extra layer of understanding and compassion to the call. Maven’s acknowledgment of McMahon’s own personal loss gave fans a rare insight into the humanity behind the often-stern facade of the WWE Chairman. More Than a Businessman Maven’s story underscores the often-unseen human side of Vince McMahon. Beyond his reputation as a shrewd businessman and wrestling visionary, the personal call to Maven reveals a caring and empathetic individual who doesn’t hesitate to reach out to those he’s connected with. The world of professional wrestling is filled with larger-than-life characters and dramatic storylines, but sometimes the most touching tales come from real-life events off the stage. Vince McMahon’s personal call to Maven is a touching testament to the connections and relationships formed in the wrestling world. Maven’s openness about this deeply personal experience not only humanizes a figure like McMahon but also fosters a sense of community and compassion that goes beyond the ring. In an industry often characterized by bravado and spectacle, this story serves as a poignant reminder that empathy and genuine care still have a place. As fans and fellow wrestlers continue to react to Maven’s story, the warmth of McMahon’s gesture will no doubt resonate with many, cementing a legacy that extends far beyond wrestling accolades and business achievements.
