Vince McMahon Credited for SAVING WWE During Pandemic

WWE Hall of Famer JBL recently shared how Vince McMahon’s bold decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic preserved WWE’s financial stability and positioned the company for future success.

WWE’s Challenges During the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic brought significant challenges to the world, and WWE was no exception. With live audiences prohibited, the company faced uncertain times. While many organizations halted operations, McMahon chose to continue producing shows without a live audience, broadcasting from the WWE Performance Center.

Vince McMahon’s Leadership Amid Criticism

JBL revealed on the Something to Wrestle With podcast that McMahon’s decision to maintain live events was met with strong opposition within WWE and heavy criticism from the media. Despite this, McMahon held firm, stating that stopping live programming would jeopardize WWE’s critical television contracts.

“If I don’t [continue], I will lose all my TV contracts,” McMahon reportedly said. By continuing to deliver live content, WWE not only preserved these deals but later renegotiated them into billion-dollar contracts, ensuring the company’s financial stability.

Creative Adjustments and Risk Mitigation

To adapt to the new normal, McMahon introduced innovative production techniques, ensuring engaging broadcasts even without live audiences. JBL, who was asked to return as a commentator, recalled the eerie atmosphere of empty airports and the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic’s early days.

“It was unbelievable what he did,” JBL said, emphasizing McMahon’s ability to think ahead and adapt in a way that kept WWE thriving while other companies struggled.

Legacy of Resilience

McMahon’s decisions not only saved WWE during the pandemic but set the stage for future growth. While the move faced backlash, the financial outcomes validated his strategy, as WWE emerged stronger than ever in the years following the pandemic.