‘The Rock’ Joins TKO Board
Gains Control of ‘The Rock’ Trademark
Finally, ‘The Rock’ joins the TKO board.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has been appointed to the board of directors of TKO Group Holdings this morning. TKO is the parent organization of WWE, and Vince McMahon serves as TKO’s Executive Chairman of the Board. McMahon played a role in bringing Johnson to TKO. McMahon stated that “Rock” is one of the few people in the world who understands the intersection of sports, entertainment, media, and business. Vince also stated he is delighted to have him join the TKO board to help the company reach new heights.
The partnership is significant. Coinciding with his appointment to the board, Johnson gains ownership of “The Rock” trademark. In addition to a seat on the board and ownership of the trademark, Johnson also receives $30 million in TKO stock that will vest through December of 2025.
From the CEO
Ari Emanuel, who is the TKO CEO, stated: “I am thrilled to partner with Dwayne and welcome his immense talent to TKO’s Board. Dwayne brings an incredible track record of creating content and building globally recognized consumer brands. He will play a key role in realizing our ambitions for TKO.”
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Can you smell what he is cooking?
In his official statement, Johnson expressed his excitement and ambition over the new partnership:
“My grandfather, ‘High Chief’ Peter Maivia, and my dad, Rocky ‘Soulman’ Johnson, would’ve never thought this day would come. This is why I’m very humbled to have a seat at the table that has decades of history and family legacy for me. A table that my family helped to build. Being on the TKO Board of Directors, and taking full ownership of my name, ‘The Rock’, is not only unprecedented but incredibly inspiring as my crazy life is coming full circle.
“At my core, I’m a builder who builds for and serves the people. Ari is building something truly game-changing. I’m very motivated to help continue to globally expand our TKO, WWE, and UFC businesses as the worldwide leaders in sports and entertainment. While proudly representing so many phenomenal athletes and performers who show up every day putting in the hard work with their own two hands to make their dreams come true and deliver for our audiences. I’ve been there, I’m still there and this is for them.”
In addition to Johnson, Brad Keywell also joined the Board of Directors, increasing the board from 11 to 13 members.