According to a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) on Jan. 22, Johnson’s deal with TKO Group, the parent company of WWE and UFC, will see him receive over $30 million in stock, Time reported.
Based on the recent 30-day weighted average, it’s likely around $76 per share translates to approximately 400,000 shares.
As part of the promotional agreement, WWE will have the rights to use Johnson’s name, image, and likeness for up to a decade.
Johnson reportedly received 25 percent of the stock on Jan. 22 when the agreement took effect, and he is slated to receive another 25 percent by the end of the year. Subsequently, an additional 25 percent will be distributed in monthly installments throughout 2025. The final quarter of the stock grant will be awarded once Johnson meets specific benchmarks outlined in the undisclosed services agreement.
This deal not only solidifies Johnson’s financial interests but also deepens his involvement with WWE, where he began his career as a performer in 1996.
In addition to the financial benefits, Johnson has been named to the board of directors of TKO Group as part of a move to increase the size of the board to 13 members from 11.
TKO Group was formed by the merger of WWE and the UFC, Variety reported.
He has been actively involved in recent WWE events and continues to earn royalties for his appearances. According to Sportico, The Rock has already been making recent appearances at WWE events, earning $491,000 in royalties for appearances in 2023 alone.
The promotional deal further cements his relationship with the wrestling company and opens the door for potential future collaborations.
There had been rumors that WWE’s chairman Vince McMahon reportedly handed over ownership of “The Rock” name to Johnson following an amicable discussion years ago, but this new deal reportedly specifies that the actor has full control over his performance name.
The name “The Rock” has become synonymous with the former professional wrestler, but it seems Johnson has never legally owned it. However, this is set to change under a new agreement with the WWE, Time reported.
“The Rock” name goes back to Johnson’s father, WWE Hall of Famer Rocky Johnson, who, according to the WWE, was the first Black champion in WWE history alongside his partner Tony Atlas.
