By Sam Boughedda
World Wrestling Entertainment (NYSE:WWE) controlling shareholder Vince McMahon is looking for as much as $9 billion in a potential sale of the wrestling powerhouse, Bloomberg said Friday, citing people familiar with his thinking.
McMahon returned to run the WWE this year, with the company already receiving offers, sources told Bloomberg. The reported asking price is 37% greater than the WWE's current market value of approximately $6.5B.
WWE shares are up more than 2% Friday. The stock has gained over 30% in 2023, in part due to speculation regarding a takeover.
McMahon reinstated himself as executive chairman in January to oversee a strategic review of the company after leaving last year following misconduct claims.
There are various parties said to be interested in acquiring the WWE, including Endeavor Group, which owns the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), and investors from the Middle East.
Last month reports emerged that Saudi Arabia had agreed on a deal to acquire the company, but they were quickly dismissed by WWE Chief Executive Officer Nick Khan.