The Rock Receives $9 Million in TKO Stock, Reigns Reportedly Not Advertised Until August
ICARO Media Group
According to a filing received by Brandon Thurston of Wrestlenomics, The Rock was awarded 96,558 shares of TKO stock, adding further to his already impressive financial success.
The shares, which have a current value of $9.41 million, were granted to The Rock on Sunday, vesting "upon completion of certain services described" in his January 2024 WWE contract. This news comes as The Rock officially joined the board of directors of TKO Group Holdings earlier this year and hinted at his involvement in WrestleMania 40.
Although expectations were high for a one-on-one match between The Rock and Roman Reigns at WrestleMania, the decision was instead made for the two superstars to join forces against Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins in the event's main event. Reigns, who had a 1,316-day reign as world champion, ultimately lost to Rhodes after three consecutive Cross Rhodes moves.
Following his defeat, Reigns may be absent from WWE programming for an extended period. Wrestle Ops reports that WWE is not advertising Reigns for his next appearance until the final SmackDown prior to SummerSlam in August. The Tribal Chief has often taken breaks from WWE, even during his championship reign, and was expected to do so if he lost at WrestleMania 40.
Speculation arises as The Rock confronts Rhodes on Raw and hints at a future one-on-one match between them. It is suggested that Reigns may stay off WWE programming until after this anticipated match takes place. Given the importance of the world title to Reigns, it is likely that he will target the championship upon his return.
Furthermore, it is intriguing to consider the potential dynamic between Reigns and The Rock if a match were to happen. The Rock's position of power within TKO Group Holdings could influence the storyline and his character's direction in wrestling for years to come. A clash between the two powerhouse personalities could be on the horizon, especially if The Rock were to capture the world title from Rhodes.
While Reigns' absence will undoubtedly be felt by fans, WWE remains in capable hands with Rhodes and other top stars leading the charge. The landscape of the wrestling world can change rapidly, and with The Rock's continued involvement, anything is possible.
As we eagerly anticipate Reigns' return, one thing is certain – the WWE universe is in for an exhilarating ride in the months to come.