Dwayne Johnson Appointed Board Member of WWE Parent TKO Group, Secures Full Ownership of ‘The Rock’ Trademark
Apr
Dwayne Johnson, widely known as “The Rock,” has stepped into a new role as a board member of TKO Group Holdings, Inc., the conglomerate formed by Endeavor through the merger of WWE and the UFC.
Johnson’s association with WWE dates back to the 1990s and early 2000s, where he rose to prominence as one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling history, clinching numerous world championships during his tenure.
Ariel Emanuel, CEO of TKO, expressed his enthusiasm about Johnson’s inclusion on the board, highlighting his exceptional talent in content creation and brand building. He emphasized Johnson’s pivotal role in realizing TKO’s ambitious goals.
In addition to his board position, WWE disclosed a services and merchandising agreement with Johnson, granting him the authority to provide promotional, licensing, and other services to the company. Furthermore, Johnson now possesses full ownership of the trademarked name “The Rock” as part of an intellectual assignment agreement.
According to SEC filings, Johnson will receive over $30 million in TKO stock and garnered $491,000 in royalty payments from WWE in 2023. These agreements coincide with speculation surrounding Johnson’s potential return to WWE for a match against his cousin, current WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns.
In a heartfelt statement, Johnson acknowledged the significance of his new role, paying homage to his family’s wrestling legacy and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to TKO’s growth. He underscored his commitment to expanding TKO, WWE, and UFC’s global presence while championing the efforts of athletes and performers.
Beyond his wrestling career, Johnson’s on-screen successes in blockbuster films like “Fast & Furious” and “Jumanji” franchises, coupled with his ventures in business and production, solidify his multifaceted influence.
Vince McMahon, executive chairman of the TKO board, praised Johnson’s unparalleled understanding of the sports, entertainment, media, and business landscape, envisioning his invaluable contributions to TKO’s future endeavors.
Johnson’s ties to key figures within TKO, including McMahon and WWE president Nick Khan, reinforce his deep-rooted connections within the organization. Alongside Johnson, Brad Keywell, a seasoned entrepreneur and executive chairman of Uptake Technologies, joins TKO’s board, further enhancing its leadership team.
As Johnson embarks on this new chapter, his diverse expertise and unwavering dedication position him as a driving force behind TKO’s continued success and innovation in the realm of sports and entertainment.
