Earlier this year, Vince McMahon stepped down from his position at TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of WWE, amidst allegations of sexual misconduct. Recent revelations shed light on McMahon’s current status and his interactions with two prominent wrestling figures.
Despite vowing to contest the accusations, McMahon departed TKO amid mounting pressure. The 78-year-old tycoon has been entangled in legal battles, yet reports suggest he is relishing life post-WWE and TKO, having recently made significant financial maneuvers.
Since his resignation, McMahon has maintained communication with two wrestling luminaries: John Cena and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. While The Rock’s spokesperson declined to comment on the matter, Cena’s representative remained unresponsive to inquiries, according to NBC News.
Both Cena and The Rock are represented by the William Morris Endeavor agency, which falls under the umbrella of Endeavor.
While The Rock hasn’t publicly addressed McMahon, he expressed gratitude towards the companies upon signing a new WWE deal and assuming a role on TKO’s Board earlier this year.
Conversely, Cena’s remarks about McMahon on The Howard Stern Show stirred controversy, drawing criticism from fans and fellow wrestlers alike.
Speculation looms over whether McMahon could potentially re-enter the wrestling terrain as a competitor to WWE, the entity he transformed into a global phenomenon.
McMahon’s recent divestment of TKO stock has fueled speculation, yet Brandon Thurston of Wrestlenomics confirms a non-compete clause in McMahon’s March 2023 employment agreement with TKO.
Following up on a question we were asked Wednesday on Pollock & Thurston, Vince McMahon's March 2023 employment agreement contained a 12-month non-compete covenant. Not that there's any specific indication he will, but if Vince were to try to re-enter the wrestling business… pic.twitter.com/XUg8BAPJoI
— Brandon Thurston (@BrandonThurston) April 12, 2024
This clause mandates a 12-month waiting period from McMahon’s departure date, initially reported on January 26 of this year, before he can engage in any competitive ventures within the industry.
McMahon’s absence during WrestleMania XL marked a significant departure from tradition, as it was the first ‘Mania in company history devoid of his influence or involvement.