Dwayne Johnson's WrestleMania Comeback: A Win for Fans and Finances

Dwayne Johnson, popularly known as The Rock, brought immense excitement to WrestleMania 40, reigniting the passion of long-time wrestling enthusiasts. His return was not just a delight for fans but also a significant boost for his financial portfolio.

Earlier this year, The Rock took on a new role as a board member at TKO Group, the parent company of WWE and UFC. This strategic move paved the way for a lucrative agreement where WWE gained the rights to use his name and image for a decade. In return, The Rock secured a remarkable $30 million in TKO stock.

At WrestleMania 40, Cody Rhodes emerged victorious over Roman Reigns, claiming the championship title. The Rock played a pivotal role throughout the event's two nights, earning close to $10 million in TKO stock for his contributions.

Post-WrestleMania, The Rock's efforts translated into a substantial reward of $9.41 million worth of TKO stock, further solidifying his financial gains from the partnership.

WrestleMania 40 shattered records, with Dwayne Johnson receiving 96,558 shares of TKO Group Holdings Class A common stock following his electrifying appearance. The agreement stipulates that a quarter of the stock was granted upfront, another quarter at year-end, and the remainder will be dispersed in monthly increments throughout 2025, subject to specific performance targets outlined in the contract.

The Rock's presence, alongside other wrestling icons like The Undertaker and John Cena, propelled WrestleMania 40 to unprecedented viewership heights on Peacock. Viewership surged by a remarkable 41% compared to the previous year, establishing a new benchmark. The anticipation surrounding The Rock's comeback made the main events of both nights a must-see spectacle.

Moreover, WrestleMania 40 obliterated attendance records, surpassing WrestleMania 39's numbers by an impressive 78%. A staggering 145,298 fans thronged Lincoln Financial Stadium over the course of two thrilling nights, underscoring the enduring appeal and impact of Dwayne Johnson's WrestleMania return.