A WWE sale could reportedly happen soon.
Alex Sherman of CNBC reports that WWE is in “advanced talks” with Endeavor Group, the parent company of UFC, and a deal could be announced as soon as Monday, April 3. Per the report, the two companies ware expected to form a new publicly traded company as part of the agreement, according to people familiar with the matter.
The agreement would see Endeavor own 51% of the new company, giving WWE shareholders 49% and WWE an enterprise value of $9.3 billion. Ari Emanuel would act as chief executive of both Endeavor and the new company, while Vince McMahon would be the executive chairman and Endeavor President Mark Shapiro would have the same role. Meanwhile, Dana White would still be the president of UFC, and WWE CEO Nick Khan would serve as president of the wrestling business.
Update: The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times also reported that WWE is close to a deal with Endeavor.
WWE has been exploring a potential since January, when the company announced that they engaged with outside advisors to review strategic alternatives related to looming media rights negotiations and a potential sale.
Vince McMahon retired on July 22, 2022, amid a WWE board investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct and hush money. Following his departure, Nick Khan and Stephanie McMahon were named the Co-CEOs of WWE. Mr. McMahon returned to WWE on January 6, and he was voted the Executive Chairman of the Board on January 10. Stephanie McMahon announced her resignation, making Khan the sole CEO.
WrestleZone will provide more information as it becomes available.
