Who Owns the WWE?

By Ali Hammad February 22, 2024 22:09

WWE, formerly known as the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), is a globally renowned professional wrestling promotion that has undergone several name changes and ownership transitions throughout its history. The ownership structure of WWE is a complex web involving various stakeholders, with particular emphasis on the McMahon family and institutional investors. Let's delve into the intricate details of who owns the WWE and the significant individuals and entities involved in its ownership.

The McMahon Family

Vince McMahon

Vince McMahon, the long-time chief executive, current CEO, and chairman of the board of directors, has been a central figure in WWE's ownership. As of March 2022, Vince McMahon holds about 38% of all shares and a staggering 81% of voting power within the company. His influence on the company's decisions and direction is substantial, given his significant voting rights.

Linda McMahon

Linda McMahon, the former WWE president and wife of Vince McMahon, holds less than 1% of WWE stock, predominantly consisting of class B shares. Despite the relatively small ownership stake, her voting power accounts for about 1.6% of the total.

Stephanie McMahon

Stephanie McMahon, WWE's Chief Brand Officer and a member of its board of directors, holds approximately 2.5% of all shares and 5% of voting power. Her ownership stake and voting rights position her as a noteworthy figure in WWE's ownership structure.

Institutional Investors

Lindsell Train Limited

Lindsell Train Limited is the largest institutional owner of WWE shares, owning about 15% of shares and less than 4% of voting power. This U.K.-based firm, majority-owned by founders Nick Train and Michael Lindsell, holds a substantial stake in the company.

BlackRock, Inc. and The Vanguard Group

Both BlackRock, Inc. and The Vanguard Group are significant institutional investors in WWE. BlackRock holds about 8% of WWE shares, with less than 2% of voting rights, while The Vanguard Group holds 5.4% of shares and approximately 1% of voting power. These multinational investment firms play a pivotal role in WWE's ownership landscape.

Ownership Transitions

The ownership dynamics of WWE underwent a significant shift in April 2023 when the company was sold to Endeavor, the same company that has owned the UFC since 2016. Valued at $9.3 billion, this pivotal acquisition marked a new chapter in WWE's ownership journey, with Endeavor becoming the majority owner of the company.

Post-Acquisition Changes

Following the acquisition by Endeavor, Vince McMahon's ownership and voting power underwent notable adjustments. An SEC filing revealed that McMahon and his family would retain their shares but no longer hold the 10x multiplier of voting power they previously possessed. This restructuring ensured that Endeavor's 51% controlling interest in the company remained firm, signifying a fundamental shift in the McMahon family's influence over WWE's operations.

The ownership of WWE is a multifaceted landscape involving the McMahon family and institutional investors like Lindsell Train Limited, BlackRock, Inc., and The Vanguard Group. The acquisition by Endeavor in 2023 ushered in a new era for WWE, reshaping the ownership dynamics and underscoring the intricate interplay between key stakeholders. Understanding WWE's ownership structure provides valuable insights into the company's governance and strategic decision-making processes.