Is Vince McMahon a problem for WWE? New filings analyze former CEO being a 'threat'

Vince McMahon has been one of the most crucial parts of WWE when it was on the rise. He was the chairperson, and as an on-screen character, he was a part of some of the most legendary WWE storylines. However, as instrumental as he is for the brand, some of his deeds have put WWE in jeopardy as he is facing accusations and is said to be involved in a hush money scandal. Moreover, his position in the TKO Group Holdings could be in trouble as well.

Three things you need to know

• Endevaour bought WWE and merged it with UFC to form TKO
• Ari Emmanuel and Vince McMahon hold key positions in the group holding
• Triple H is the Chief Content Officer for WWE

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TKO addresses Vince McMahon as a risk

The Vince McMahon risk factor, which was in the WWE before the sale, has emerged under the rule of TKO as well. McMahon retired when he was under investigation for the hush money scandal. But he came back in power when he sold the wrestling promotion to Endevaour. TKO Holdings has now flagged McMahon as a risk to the company.

As per the SEC filings, it mentioned:

Mr. McMahon’s membership on our Board could have adverse financial and operational impacts on our business.

Mr. McMahon’s membership on our Board could expose us to negative publicity and/or have other adverse financial and operational impacts on our business. His membership also may result in additional scrutiny or otherwise exacerbate the other risks described herein. Any of these outcomes could directly or indirectly have adverse financial and operational impacts on our business.

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The WWE Executive Chairman may have returned to his position despite announcing his retirement. But it looks like TKO Holdings has understood the risk of having the former WWE Chairman on board. But it does not mean that Vince does now help out in reaching big-money deals.

Dana White reveals how UFC's Saudi deal panned out

TKO Group Holdings' UFC will be hosting their first-ever show in Saudi Arabia, something that WWE has been doing for the past few years. They will be hosting an event in March 2024. Interestingly, Dana White revealed that it was Vince McMahon who made the deal happen.

While interacting with the Sports Business Journal, Dana White mentioned: 

It was Vince McMahon (who arranged UFC’s Saudi deal). It was 100 percent Vince McMahon. He made every call, he didn’t make one move without picking up the phone and calling me and getting me in the loop and seeing if I was cool with this and that. And he went from being, oddly enough, I don’t know why, an enemy (of UFC’s), to being an unbelievable, incredible partner.

Just like WWE, UFC will now be able to host events in Saudi Arabia.