WWE

TUESDAY, January 10 could go down as a landmark day in the history of the WWE.The afternoon was kicked off by Co-CEO and Chairwoman Stephanie McMahon.

"The only way for WWE to fully capitalize on this opportunity is for me to return as Executive Chairman and support the management team in the negotiations for our media rights and to combine that with a review of strategic alternatives. The WWE has yet to address the aforementioned claims regarding a sale or confirm if any sale has taken place. "Vince McMahon coming back to sell WWE to Saudi Arabia and install himself as chairman and head of creative is again, is Peak Vince McMahon s**t" [Steven Muehlhausen Jr.](https://twitter.com/SMuehlhausenJr/status/1613014122517655552), the [WWE](https://www.the-sun.com/sport/wwe/) has supposedly been sold to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. [Cassidy Haynes](https://twitter.com/Casshooole/status/1613010764746592263?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1613010764746592263%7Ctwgr%5E44b2fa8781a4b3198bee9cd9670760a54b7ec58c%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bodyslam.net%2F2023%2F01%2F10%2Fexclusive-wwe-sale-to-saudi-investment-fund-done-company-going-private%2F) of Bodyslam.net also took to Twitter to report this alleged deal, saying: "For what it’s worth, I’m told the Saudi deal is done and they’re taking the company private." [Stephanie McMahon announcing that she was resigning from her position](https://www.the-sun.com/sport/7103196/vince-mcmahon-returning-wwe-chairman-stephanie-bids-farewell/), only to be replaced by her father Vince, who had [left the role under a cloud last summer](https://www.the-sun.com/sport/5841186/vince-mcmahon-wwe-retirement/).

World Wrestling Entertainment is reportedly being sold to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund by Vince McMahon.

As a result of that report, McMahon stepped back from his role as chief executive officer of WWE while the board continued its investigation. “WWE is entering a critical juncture in its history with the upcoming media rights negotiations coinciding with increased industry-wide demand for quality content and live events and with more companies seeking to own the intellectual property on their platforms,” said McMahon last week. McMahon, who owns controlling shares of the company, is said to have sold the company to Saudi Arabia in a move that will take the company off the public stock market and back to being a private business per DAZN pro wrestling reporter Steven Muehlhausen.

STAMFORD, Conn., January 10, 2023– WWE (NYSE: WWE) today announced that its Board of Directors unanimously elected Vince McMahon Executive Chairman of the ...

These forward-looking statements are subject to uncertainties relating to, without limitation, the results of these actions, as well as possible future actions noted below, of Vince McMahon; the appointment of Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan as co-Chief Executive Officers; regulatory, investigative or enforcement inquiries, subpoenas or demands arising from, related to, or in connection with these matters; our ability to remediate material weaknesses in our disclosure controls and procedures and our internal control over financial reporting; and reputational harm to the Company’s relationships with its stockholders, customers, talent and partners, which may have adverse financial and operational impacts, among other factors. McMahon could exercise ultimate control over our affairs, and his interests may conflict with the holders of our Class A common stock; our share repurchase program; a substantial number of shares are eligible for sale by the McMahons and the sale, or the perception of possible sales, of those shares could lower our stock price; and the volatility of our Class A common stock. Forward looking statements include statements regarding, our outlook for future financial results, the impact of recent management changes, the scope, duration and findings of the investigation being conducted by the special committee of independent members of our Board of Directors; our plans to remediate identified material weaknesses in our disclosure control and procedures and our internal control over financial reporting, and regulatory, investigative or enforcement inquiries, subpoenas or demands arising from, related to, or in connection with these matters. Forward-looking statements made by the Company speak only as of the date made and are subject to change without any obligation on the part of the Company to update or revise them. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners. “I’m grateful to Vince McMahon and our Board of Directors for their ongoing support. Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains, and oral statements made from time to time by our representatives may contain, forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Nick’s business acumen and mastery of the media industry have helped catapult our business to record revenue and profitability. In the United States, NBCUniversal’s streaming service, Peacock, is the exclusive home to WWE Network. 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. Stephanie has always been the ultimate ambassador for our company, and her decades of contributions have left an immeasurable impact on our brand.

Four days after her disgraced father returned to WWE's board, the wrestling company's co-CEO and chairwoman Stephanie McMahon resigned from the company.

Following his departure, WWE disclosed multiple expenses that Vince McMahon hadn’t previously reported, totaling $19.6 million. “I’d like to express my full support for Stephanie’s personal decision,” he said in the release. Vince McMahon retired as CEO in July 2022, but remains the company’s majority shareholder.

Days after her father, Vince McMahon, ended his retirement and returned as executive chair of the WWE board, Stephanie McMahon has resigned from the company ...

I had the privilege to return as co-CEO and chairwoman of the board of WWE. "About eight months ago, I took a leave of absence and within a few weeks, unexpectedly had the opportunity of a lifetime. Days after her father, Vince McMahon, ended his retirement and returned as executive chair of the WWE board, Stephanie McMahon has resigned from the company.

Stephanie McMahon's resignation as co-CEO of WWE comes less than a week after her father, Vince McMahon, returned as chairman of the board.

"Stephanie McMahon is a terrific executive and an even better person," said Khan, who negotiated WWE's current media rights deals as an agent at CAA before he joined WWE as president. Stephanie McMahon was a longtime staple of WWE as an on-screen authority figure, often alongside her father and her husband, Triple H. "Stephanie has always been the ultimate ambassador for our company, and her decades of contributions have left an immeasurable impact on our brand. Together, we look forward to working with the Board at this critical moment in time to review our strategic alternatives and maximize value for all WWE shareholders." In a statement announcing his return on Thursday, Vince McMahon said the move was made to "fully capitalize" on WWE's upcoming media rights negotiations. "WWE is in such a strong position that I have decided to return to my leave and take it one step further with my official resignation.

Co-CEO and chairwoman of the board Stephanie McMahon resigned from World Wrestling Entertainment just days after her father, Vince McMahon, returned to the ...

Nick’s business acumen and mastery of the media industry have helped catapult our business to record revenue and profitability. I had the privilege to return as the Co-CEO and Chairwoman of the Board of WWE. “About 8 months ago, I took a leave of absence and within a few weeks, unexpectedly had the opportunity of a lifetime.

New reports are claiming that WWE has completed a deal with Saudi Arabia to sell the wrestling company.

However, as this is clearly a developing situation and not yet confirmed, we’ll be sure to keep you updated as more information is revealed regarding the company’s imminent sale. But hey, you guys wanna know what all of the dark Twitter tweets are about.” The WWE – short for World Wrestling Entertainment – has been home to some of the biggest moments in all of sports entertainment. However, other WWE reporters such as Daze Meltzer and Sean Ross Sapp, are yet to confirm if the deal has been officially made. The Fighful Select reporter then doubled down on his lack of confirmation in a follow-up tweet. “For what it’s worth, I’m told the Saudi deal is done and they’re taking the company private.”

01/04 Pro Wrestling Boom Podcast with Jason Powell (Episode 239): Powell's review of NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 17 · 12/30 Dot Net Weekly Five-Year Flashback: John ...

If nothing else, it’s encouraging to see Paul Levesque still listed as the head of creative, though there’s nothing stopping Vince from reinserting himself into that position. Powell’s POV: The shakeup continues at WWE following Vince McMahon forcing himself back into the leadership role. [@prowrestlingnet](https://twitter.com/prowrestlingnet))

Rumors of WWE allegedly selling to the Saudis have taken over wrestling Twitter, and fans are sounding off on the possibility.

[to the product](https://www.cinemablend.com/wrestling/following-vince-mcmahons-wwe-retirement-rumors-point-to-various-ways-former-ceo-caused-struggles-for-creative-team) and [the roster](https://www.cinemablend.com/wrestling/wwes-bray-wyatt-briefly-broke-character-to-explain-why-he-came-back) proved popular with fans, but about a month ago, rumors started swirling that Vince McMahon was [planning to return](https://www.cinemablend.com/wrestling/as-more-vince-mcmahon-lawsuits-surface-reports-claim-wwe-owner-has-voiced-intentions-to-return). [A lot](https://twitter.com/TheRajGiri/status/1613022928810950656). [is going around](https://twitter.com/SeanRossSapp/status/1612998018013224963). Stephanie [resigned earlier today](https://twitter.com/StephMcMahon/status/1612956533695938560) and then the rumors about Saudi Arabia started swirling, none of which have been verified as of press time. What would that mean for the women's division? They're simply saying the rumor that WWE was sold to Saudi Arabia He picked on and injured children. They feel like WWE was finally getting into a good place, and now its future is entirely uncertain. He tormented his wife and children. Absolutely nothing is confirmed as of the time I'm writing this article. The last year has been unlike anything I have ever experienced as a wrestling fan, and yet, today may have been the wildest day yet. Now, rumors are swirling that WWE is about to be sold and even more shockingly, sold to Saudi Arabia.

World Wrestling Entertainment Inc.'s chairwoman and co-chief executive officer, Stephanie McMahon, has resigned from the company after her father's return ...

After serving as co-CEO and chairwoman of WWE for the last six months, Stephanie McMahon.

"WWE is in such a strong position, that I have decided to return to my leave and take it one step further with my official resignation. She expressed confidence in the direction of the company under Khan and chief content officer Paul "Triple H" Leveque, who is her husband. "I am confident WWE is in the perfect place to provide unparalleled creative content and drive maximum value for shareholders," she said. In the Vince McMahon has also officially been voted as executive chairman of the board: It was eventually found that he had up to $19.6 million in unreported expenses.

Stephanie McMahon has resigned from her roles as Chairwoman and Co-CEO. Nick Khan will serve as WWE CEO. Vince McMahon: “First, I'd like to express my ...

These forward-looking statements are subject to uncertainties relating to, without limitation, the results of these actions, as well as possible future actions noted below, of Vince McMahon; the appointment of Nick Khan as Chief Executive Officers; regulatory, investigative or enforcement inquiries, subpoenas or demands arising from, related to, or in connection with these matters; our ability to remediate material weaknesses in our disclosure controls and procedures and our internal control over financial reporting; and reputational harm to the Company’s relationships with its stockholders, customers, talent and partners, which may have adverse financial and operational impacts, among other factors. McMahon could exercise ultimate control over our affairs, and his interests may conflict with the holders of our Class A common stock; our share repurchase program; a substantial number of shares are eligible for sale by the McMahons and the sale, or the perception of possible sales, of those shares could lower our stock price; and the volatility of our Class A common stock. Forward-looking statements made by the Company speak only as of the date made and are subject to change without any obligation on the part of the Company to update or revise them. Forward looking statements include statements regarding, our outlook for future financial results, the impact of recent management changes; our plans to remediate identified material weaknesses in our disclosure control and procedures and our internal control over financial reporting, and regulatory, investigative or enforcement inquiries, subpoenas or demands arising from, related to, or in connection with these matters. “I’m grateful to Vince McMahon and our Board of Directors for their ongoing support. For more information about risks and uncertainties associated with the Company’s business, please refer to the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Risk Factors” sections of the Company’s SEC filings, including, but not limited to, our annual reports on Form 10-K and 10-K/A and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q/A and Form 10-Q. Nick’s business acumen and mastery of the media industry have helped catapult our business to record revenue and profitability. All other trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners. In addition, the words “may,” “will,” “could,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “continue,” “project,” “intend,” “estimate,” “believe,” “expect,” “outlook,” “target,” “goal,” “guidance” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such words. Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains, and oral statements made from time to time by our representatives may contain, forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Stephanie has always been the ultimate ambassador for our company, and her decades of contributions have left an immeasurable impact on our brand. Inthe United States, NBCUniversal’s streaming service, Peacock, is the exclusive home to WWE Network.

A new update has shed light on the reaction to Stephanie McMahon resigning from WWE, including McMahon's interesting choice of words at a talent meeting.

One WWE Superstar stressed that “public frustration” from the roster could arise if Vince McMahon assumes responsibility for the creative direction of the company. The report noted that at an employee meeting on the same day that it was announced Vince McMahon was returning to the WWE Board of Directors, January 6th, she confessed that “there’s naturally some animosity” before changing her choice of word to “angst” regarding her father’s return. [Vince McMahon](https://tjrwrestling.net/news/vince-mcmahon-wwe-executive-chairman/) strong-armed his way back onto the company’s Board of Directors before being named Executive Chairman.

In the rvialry between WWE and UFC, Vince McMahon is poised to come out on top as expectations of a sale rise with his return to the company.

Media analysts at LightShed suggested in a 2023 outlook that Amazon may be very interested in adding WWE events to its slate of live programming. Plus, in the stock market, acquisitions tend to come at a 28% premium to a company’s stock price. Whoever the buyer, at the average price premium, Vince McMahon would find his 28.7 million shares worth $3.2 billion, putting his total wealth close to $4 billion, based on data from Forbes. That means any purchase of WWE is going to be result in lots of cash flowing to shareholders’ wallets. Founded in 1993 and not even half the age of WWE, UFC is now about even on two major metrics: social media followers (WWE 60.4 million; UFC 59.5 million) and revenue (for 2021: WWE $974 million; UFC roughly $1 billion*). The reason ties back to a common theme in sports and entertainment these days: WWE’s control of its media rights and intellectual property. [off the mark](https://www.sportico.com/personalities/executives/2023/vince-mcmahon-jumps-back-into-ring-1234700409/). Assuming the same for WWE, a 28% premium would put shares at $113. Endeavor’s heavy debt load—already a weight on the stock—is one reason the chatter that Endeavor wants to buy WWE probably won’t amount to anything. Enterprise value, which is the market cap plus debt, minus cash on hand, is probably a better reflection of a business’ true worth. And in recent years, UFC has seemed to run neck-and-neck with WWE for the title of the world’s favorite ringed event (sorry, Barnum and boxing). McMahon can offer all this in what may well be the golden age of media rights, with bidding sure to be influenced by the needs of traditional broadcasters eager to clutch whatever viewers they can as well as streaming behemoths looking to establish themselves with consumers.

Her decision comes mere days after her father Vince McMahon was reinstated to the WWE Board of Directors, and immediately after her announcement, the company ...

Her decision comes mere days after her father Vince McMahon was reinstated to the WWE Board of Directors, and immediately after her announcement, the company issued a press release stating that Vince had been [unanimously elected](https://tjrwrestling.net/news/vince-mcmahon-wwe-executive-chairman/) Executive Chairman of the Board. The PIF is the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia which helped fund the takeover of Newcastle United Football Club in England as well as start the controversial LIV Golf organisation. Regardless of the alleged sale, it is also noted in the report that there is an “incredible amount of concern” in the company due to the resurgence of Vince McMahon in the company.

With Vince McMahon back as Executive Chairman of WWE, the company has been described as "problematic" and job losses are expected.

Maybe he’s already talked to the people at Fox and at NBCU and they’ve assured him that he’s ok. “WWE without the rights fees is not worth anything close to what they’re getting. Reports suggest that McMahon

Speculation about WWE's sale comes just hours after Vince McMahon was elected Executive Chairman of the Board. McMahon had announced his retirement last July, ...

US viewers can access the WWE Network via [Peacock](https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=127X991730&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.peacocktv.com%2F&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.digitalspy.com%2Ftv%2Fustv%2Fa42453393%2Fwwe-sale-saudi-arabia-public-investment-fund-rumour%2F). [WWE](https://www.digitalspy.com/wwe/) is rumoured to have agreed a sale in principle to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF). "WWE is in such a strong position, that I have decided to return to my leave and take it one step further with my official resignation. Since 2014, WWE has been promoting events in Saudi Arabia. Last week he appointment himself to the company's board of directors alongside former co-presidents and directors, Michelle Wilson and George Barrio. [Bodyslam](https://www.bodyslam.net/2023/01/11/exclusive-update-on-wwe-selling-to-saudi-investment-fund/) reports claims from insiders that a deal hasn't been fully finalised, because there are certain obligations that it must first meet for a sale as a publicly-traded company.

WWE's rumored sale to Saudi Arabia has thrust its biggest star into the spotlight.

WWE is hardly the first American company Saudi Arabia has invested in. With tensions subsiding in time for the next Saudi show, and WWE continuing to reap the eight-figure benefits of Saudi shows, WWE has now gone all in on its relationship with Saudi Arabia. Those fears are justified, as Zayn has never competed at a Saudi Arabia show due to being of Syrian descent. Many are fearful that the top star will be on the outside looking in of WWE’s deal with Saudi. This has not stopped fans from rallying around Sami Zayn, who has become a popular talking point in the wrestling community. No, [not the returning Vince McMahon](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUIP_6-loGQ), but rather Sami Zayn.

Former WWE star Mandy Rose has broken her silence on being sacked by the wrestling organisation.

I am very hurt. “I am hurt. Former WWE NXT champion Mandy Rose was sacked by the promotion after her OnlyFans like side job came to light.

Stephanie McMahon stepped down from her position as co-CEO of WWE today. She was also the chairwoman of the company until her father returned last Friday.

WWE legend and Stephanie's husband Paul "Triple H" Levesque will continue his role in the company. Stephanie McMahon stepped down from her position as co-CEO of WWE today. Vince resigned as the WWE chairman in July last year.

In a since-deleted tweet, Steven Muehlhausen of DAZN reported Tuesday that WWE had been sold to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund and that it would revert ...

[Cassidy Haynes](https://twitter.com/Casshooole/status/1613045348930289671) of BodySlam.net later reported that while WWE and Saudi Arabia have agreed to a deal in principle, it hasn't been finalized. Listen to Ring Rust Radio for all of the hot wrestling topics. [Lauren Thomas](https://www.wsj.com/articles/vince-mcmahon-plots-return-to-wwe-11672952709) of the Wall Street Journal reported that McMahon was planning a WWE comeback in order to play a role in the potential sale of the company. [Alex Sherman](https://www.cnbc.com/2023/01/07/who-would-buy-wwe-as-mcmahon-returns-to-board-to-pursue-sale.html) furthered rumors of a potential sale last week when he reported that WWE hired investment banking company JPMorgan to advise it in sale discussions. [Brandon Thurston](https://twitter.com/BrandonThurston/status/1613176189610299396) of Wrestlenomics disputed reports of a sale, noting that someone in WWE "who would know" told him the Saudi Arabia rumors are untrue. [since-deleted tweet](https://wrestletalk.com/news/update-wwe-saudi-arabia-sale-agreed-in-principle/), Steven Muehlhausen of DAZN reported Tuesday that WWE had been sold to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund and that it would revert to being a private company rather than a publicly traded one.

WWE has not been sold to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund ... this according to sources familiar with the situation.

with the intent to help with TV deal negotiations and explore a potential sale of the company. A sale to Saudi Arabia would certainly cause backlash with WWE fans ... WWE Company Not Sold to Saudi Arabia ... WWE has not been sold to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund ... WWE Sources Say Company Not Sold to Saudi Arabia [Vince McMahon](https://www.tmz.com/people/vince-mcmahon/) secured a massive payday for handing over the company reins to Saudi Arabia, which would take the WWE private once again.

The stock rose as much as 2.5% in early Wednesday trading following a report about the company's alleged pending sale to the Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth ...

The long-time WWE CEO and chairman McMahon [resigned](https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianbushard/2022/06/17/vince-mcmahon-steps-down-as-wwe-ceo-amid-3-million-hush-pact-investigation/?sh=395f42dc278c) from the company in June and [retired](https://www.forbes.com/sites/nicholasreimann/2022/07/22/vince-mcmahon-retires-from-wwe-under-cloud-of-misconduct-probe/?sh=3899789c5253) from the company in July following the revelation of [millions](https://www.forbes.com/sites/dereksaul/2022/07/25/wwe-discloses-millions-in-vince-mcmahon-expensesbut-companys-stock-still-soars/?sh=5a5ef7f263e1) of dollars in company funds going toward “hush” payments to former employees accusing him of sexual misconduct. McMahon officially [took over](https://corporate.wwe.com/investors/news/press-releases/2023/01-10-2023-235206986) as chairman late Tuesday, while his daughter Stephanie McMahon simultaneously resigned from her role as co-CEO and chairwoman in what the elder McMahon described as a “personal decision.” The Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund made waves in American sports in 2022, [dishing out](https://www.forbes.com/sites/justinbirnbaum/2022/08/12/majors-monopolies-megabucks-and-donald-trump-inside-the-business-of-the-new-saudi-golf-league/?sh=18f414073ef5) billions of dollars in its financing of LIV Golf, the controversial PGA Tour competitor that lured top American golfers like Phil Mickelson and Bryson DeChambeau with its nine-figure paydays. [Vince McMahon Retires From WWE Under Cloud Of Misconduct Probe](https://www.forbes.com/sites/nicholasreimann/2022/07/22/vince-mcmahon-retires-from-wwe-under-cloud-of-misconduct-probe/?sh=7faf1c4f5253) (Forbes) [Vince McMahon’s WWE Sale Would Body Slam UFC](https://www.sportico.com/personalities/owners/2023/vince-mcmahon-wwe-sale-would-body-slam-ufc-1234700896/) (Sportico) [estimate](https://www.forbes.com/profile/vincent-mcmahon/?sh=7fcfb861b897) McMahon to be worth $2.9 billion, with his fortune up substantially from the $2.3 billion it stood at as of his [June resignation](https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianbushard/2022/06/17/vince-mcmahon-steps-down-as-wwe-ceo-amid-3-million-hush-pact-investigation/?sh=395f42dc278c). [said](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230106005293/en/WWE-Provides-Update-Regarding-Composition-of-Its-Board-of-Directors-and-Exploration-of-Strategic-Alternatives) last week it planned to “undertake a review of its strategic alternatives with the goal being to maximize value for all WWE shareholders,” indicating it was likely mulling a sale, and CNBC [reported](https://www.cnbc.com/2023/01/07/who-would-buy-wwe-as-mcmahon-returns-to-board-to-pursue-sale.html) Saturday the firm has retained JPMorgan Chase to advise on such a transaction. [said](https://twitter.com/RichLightShed/status/1613167493580734476) LightShed Partners’ Rich Greenfield on Twitter, while Cannonball Research’s Vasily Karasyov noted in an email the original tweet was deleted and wrote in a recent note that the WWE would need to complete media rights negotiations in order for a sale to “make sense” for any bidder, with its television deal set to expire next year.

Stephanie's father, Vince, has now returned as chair - after she became co-CEO and chairwoman in July.

Stephanie has been a part of the company since the 1990s, appearing as an in-ring performer and leading the company in various roles behind the scenes. "Stephanie has always been the ultimate ambassador for our company, and her decades of contributions have left an immeasurable impact on our brand," Vince McMahon said. "I look forward to cheering on WWE from the other side of the business," Stephanie wrote in her resignation statement.

Rumors of a sale to Saudi Arabia have thrown wrestling's biggest company into turmoil.

This isn’t a done deal yet, but it seems to be on the ropes — and the future of wrestling could be very scary if this is finalized. A sale to the PIF would not carry on that legacy. A sale to the PIF would maximize the amount of money for a sale, with the additional benefit being that as a buyer they would be far less likely to scrutinize financials or worry about making a return on investment. Vince McMahon is unquestionably one of the worst employers in the United States when it comes to the rights of his workers. This is what’s often missed in the discussion of PIF-owned entities. Still, it’s a far cry from suddenly becoming the employee of a country with a laundry list of human rights violations. Complete with a host of wrestlers speaking on camera about how lovely Saudi Arabia is, how kind people are, bragging about the country’s cleanliness, and telling a predominantly western audience what a wonderful place it is to visit. Of course, this is designed to distract from the fact that anyone found to be LGBTQ can tortured, sentenced to life imprisonment, or be subject to chemical castration. So let’s slow things down, discuss what the hell is actually happening, and what this means for the future of professional wrestling — not just in terms of WWE, but for the industry as a whole. Significant investment, often far above “accepted” market rates, is made into a team, league, or sport as a whole — with an expectation that in exchange the beneficiary will help perform public relations for Saudi Arabia. On Tuesday night reports and rumors swirled that the world’s largest professional wrestling company was in the process of being sold to Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), the same entity which has heavily invested in Formula 1, initiated a takeover of We can pump the brakes on the sale reports right now, because this isn’t something that can happen in the dead of night without significant regulatory hoops to jump through.

Rumors swirled Wednesday that the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund was eyeing a purchase of the WWE amid Stephanie McMahon's sudden departure as ...

Are You Asking It Already? [January 11, 2023] [the Hottest Franchises to Watch in 2023](/article/442326) [This One Question Will Make You a Better Thinker](/article/442557). [Front Office Sports](https://frontofficesports.com/public-investment-fund-saudi-arabia-wwe-sale-liv-golf-vince-mcmahon/) claimed that the PIF had been eyeing a purchase of the WWE, with some "sources" even seeming to indicate that the deal was already done. [Deadspin](https://deadspin.com/wwe-sold-saudi-arabia-vince-mcmahon-sportswashing-1849973522) and wrestling outlet [BodySlam.net](https://www.bodyslam.net/2023/01/11/vince-mcmahon-has-been-working-on-saudi-arabia-wwe-deal-since-his-retirement/). The world of the WWE this week has proven to be more chaotic than a Friday Night SmackDown show as rumors swirl that the company may soon be (or secretly has been) sold to a Saudi Arabian company amid the departure of current Co-CEO and Chairwoman Stephanie McMahon.

WWE Inc. chief Vince McMahon—who returned to the company in early January after resigning amid a wave of sexual harassment allegations—is facing investor ...

His daughter, Stephanie McMahon, who resigned as co-CEO and chairwoman Tuesday, is married to another top executive, former WWE champion Paul “Triple H” Levesque. To contact the editors responsible for this story: McMahon](https://www.bloomberglaw.com/public/document/ScottAFellowsvVincentKMcMahonDocketNo20230022DelChJan102023CourtD?doc_id=X67OCN5B0D9MEO593PB4BAUMRB), Del. To contact the reporter on this story: 2023-0022, complaint filed 1/10/23. According to the proposed class action, McMahon timed his return to seize control of upcoming negotiations over the company’s expiring media rights, the “lifeblood” of the business, and forced his way back by leveraging a threat to withhold support for any deal reached without his participation.

Bleacher Report catches you up on the latest news from the WWE Universe. WWE Talent Reportedly Feeling Uneasy Over McMahon's Return Morale among WWE...

Listen to Ring Rust Radio for all of the hot wrestling topics. White is scheduled to face Hikuleo in a Loser Leaves Japan match at NJPW The New Beginning on Feb. Sherman also noted that if a sale happens, it would likely occur within the next three to six months, which is the same timeline during which television rights negotiations are expected to take place, as WWE's current deals run through 2024. [unanimously voted in](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/stephanie-mcmahon-resigns-wwe-co-ceo-vince-mcmahon-returns-executive-c-rcna65209) as chairman of the board on Tuesday, while Stephanie resigned from her co-CEO role, making Nick Khan the sole CEO. Around the time Triple H stepped away from WWE in the summer of 2021 to deal with a heart condition, NXT changed from a brand littered with stars from the independent scene to more of a developmental brand focused on wrestlers with limited experience. [Johnson](https://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=166831), Fredericks' New Japan contract expired in August, and he has since signed with WWE and reported to the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. The New Zealand native is widely regarded as one of the best in-ring performers in the world, and from an all-around perspective, an argument can be made for him being the top talent not currently signed to a WWE or AEW deal. [Fightful Select](https://www.patreon.com/fightful) (h/t [Jenkins](https://www.ringsidenews.com/2023/01/10/jay-white-expected-to-leave-njpw-wwe-is-very-interested/)), White is garnering interest from both WWE and AEW, but sources within WWE are "confident" he will ultimately choose to sign with WWE. [Mike Johnson](https://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=166845), there is "far more of a worry and a feeling of unease" among WWE talent with McMahon back in the fold than there was when he retired in July and was replaced by Triple H as head of creative and Stephanie McMahon as chairwoman and co-CEO. There is currently a great deal of uncertainty within WWE since it is unclear if McMahon is merely back to focus on big-picture issues, or if he could potentially attempt to return to the creative side of things. [Lauren Thomas](https://www.wsj.com/articles/vince-mcmahon-plots-return-to-wwe-11672952709) of the Wall Street Journal reported McMahon was planning to return in order to play a role in exploring the possibility of a sale of the company. [Fightful Select](https://www.patreon.com/fightful) (h/t [H Jenkins](https://www.ringsidenews.com/2023/01/10/wwe-employees-confused-by-sudden-changes-to-the-company/) of Ringside News) reported that multiple WWE Superstars expressed confusion over what the changes to the company will mean for them.

Vince McMahon is back. A sale to Saudi Arabia seems imminent. Here are all your questions about the state of the WWE answered (as best we can).

[antics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdeqB6Rdalc) as the goofy, adopted brother of Samoan family the Bloodline (led by current WWE Champion Roman Reigns) have seen his popularity skyrocket. However, Zayn was [ reportedly](https://cultaholic.com/posts/report-claims-saudi-government-told-wwe-to-remove-sami-zayn-from-super-showdown-due-to-his-ethnicity) barred from performing at all of WWE’s eight Saudi events thus far because of his Syrian ethnicity. [ walking out during live TV](https://www.vulture.com/2022/05/sasha-banks-naomi-wwe-walkout-suspension.html)), but Levesque’s installment brought with it several renewed stories, an increased focus on viral marketing, the re-hiring of numerous wrestlers who’d been let go in recent months, and a general [morale boost](https://411mania.com/wrestling/wwe-backstage-morale-has-reportedly-greatly-improved-under-triple-h-recent-changes/) among talent. No decision seems too ruthless for McMahon, who — in a particularly Logan Roy move — ousted [his own son](https://www.essentiallysports.com/wwe-news-real-reason-wwe-chairman-vince-mcmahon-fired-his-son-shane-mcmahon-randy-orton/) from the company last year over creative disagreements. [recently formed Time Warner Discovery](https://www.vulture.com/article/is-hbo-max-going-away-warner-bros-discovery-streaming.html), which has its own wrestling broadcasting deal with rival company AEW, has been at the center of several streaming controversies (mostly involving [shuttered productions and properties being removed from HBO Max](https://www.vulture.com/article/hbo-max-removing-shows-movies-list.html)). Or, in the words of Succession’s Cousin Greg: “If it is to be said, so it is.” [the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi](https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-45812399). Meanwhile Disney, which has a [deal](https://www.cagesideseats.com/2022/10/17/23408998/aaas-marvel-lucha-libre-disney-plus-show-trailer-premiere-date) in place with Mexican wrestling promotion AAA (involving the creation of several Marvel-themed wrestlers, and even a Disney+ series), has nabbed an increased market share of global film and television in recent years. [Succession](https://www.vulture.com/tv/succession/). He and wife Stephanie are believed to be well-liked backstage, and the latter’s departure already [ appears to have](https://wrestletalk.com/news/wwe-morale-stephanie-mcmahon-resignation/) caused unhappiness behind the scenes. Others, however, [ report](https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10061294-report-wwe-doesnt-have-deal-to-sell-to-saudi-arabias-public-investment-fund) that WWE is still exploring its options. After McMahon’s retirement in July, his son-in-law, Paul Levesque — formerly the wrestler Triple H — was promoted to chief content officer and filled in for McMahon on day-to-day creative decisions.

As World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Chief Vince McMahon returned as chairman of the company in January 2023, just months after retiring following sexual ...

Accessed 11 Jan. ESPN.Com, 11 Jan. Bloody Elbow, 11 Jan. BodySlam.Net, 11 Jan. TMZ, https://www.tmz.com/2023/01/11/wwe-sources-company-not-sold-saudi-arabia/. Here's Who Might Want to Buy It." "Vince McMahon Is Back at WWE to Ensure a Smooth Sale Process. For now we rate this claim as a "Research in Progress." Indeed, rumors about the WWE have increased accusations of " [sportswashing](https://www.bloodyelbow.com/2023/1/11/23549833/saudi-arabia-bid-buy-wwe-wrestling-politics-sportswashing-news)," which many argue involves the country spending billions of dollars on high-profile sports and entertainment events to distract from their human rights violations. [CNBC](https://www.cnbc.com/2023/01/07/who-would-buy-wwe-as-mcmahon-returns-to-board-to-pursue-sale.html) also reported that legacy media, streaming giants, and entertainment holding companies could all submit bids. So far, we have no real confirmation that such a sale is taking place. [returned](https://www.espn.com/wwe/story/_/id/35422004/stephanie-mcmahon-resigns-wwe-nick-khan-now-sole-ceo) as chairman of the company in January 2023, just months after retiring following sexual harassment allegations, many speculated about the future of the professional wrestling juggernaut.

Her departure comes less than a week after her retired father Vince announced he wanted to regain control of the entertainment company.

Prior to founding Isos with Barrios, Wilson was co-president and a board member of WWE until January 2020. Stephanie McMahon has resigned as chairwoman and co-CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment Inc. “I’d like to express my full support for Stephanie’s personal decision,” Vince McMahon said.