In the aftermath of the seismic WWE-UFC merger that gave birth to the colossal TKO Group Holdings, WWE’s head of creative, Triple H, has found himself on the receiving end of a jaw-dropping bonus. The details revealed in filings related to this momentous event are nothing short of extraordinary. Here’s the exclusive scoop on this unprecedented development.
Triple H: A Storied WWE Career: Triple H, known as Paul Levesque in real life, embarked on his journey with WWE (then WWF) in 1995. Over the years, he carved out a legendary career as one of the company’s top stars throughout the 2000s and into the early 2010s. As his illustrious in-ring career gradually drew to a close, ‘The Game’ transitioned seamlessly into executive roles within the organization.
He assumed the role of Executive Vice President, Talent and Live Events, which was later expanded in 2013 to encompass his pivotal involvement in creative aspects, where he played a pivotal role in shaping storylines and character developments on WWE programming.
Triple H’s visionary leadership extended to his founding and executive producing of NXT, a brand that garnered widespread acclaim during its ‘black and gold era.’ Under his guidance, NXT cultivated and promoted emerging talents who would become the future champions of WWE’s main roster, with the exception of Rey Mysterio.
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Currently, Triple H wears multiple hats within WWE, serving as the head of creative, an executive producer, and the Chief Content Officer.
The Game’s Grand Bonus After WWE-UFC Merger: The mega-merger between WWE and UFC that culminated in the formation of TKO Group Holdings triggered an astonishing bonus payment for Triple H. This revelation, unearthed through filings with the United States Security and Exchange Commission (SEC), is nothing short of eye-popping.
According to the filing made in April when the merger was initially announced, Triple H was entitled to a staggering $5 million payment if the merger proceeded as planned. In comparison, WWE president Nick Khan was in line to receive $15 million, and Frank Riddick was also due $5 million.
The filing provides insight into the rationale behind these hefty bonuses: “In light of significant contributions to the Company prior to and in connection with the Transactions and to promote retention, the Company… entered into bonus letter agreements… with certain executive officers including Nick Khan, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Frank A. Riddick III, the Company’s President & Chief Financial Officer, and Paul Levesque, the Company’s Chief Content Officer.
For Messrs. Khan and Levesque, the amount of their Bonuses is equal to $15,000,000 to $5,000,000, respectively, with 100% of such amount payable as soon as practicable following the closing date of a Qualifying Sale Transaction, subject to their continuous employment through the closing date.”
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It’s important to note that Triple H will not serve on the Board of Directors within the new company, which is predominantly owned by Endeavor. Instead, he will report to Khan in his capacity as the head of creative, as the wrestling world eagerly anticipates how his creative genius will shape the future of TKO Group Holdings.
