The wrestling world’s most controversial figure isn’t retreating into the shadows. Despite facing serious legal challenges, Vince McMahon is aggressively pursuing his next venture in combat sports entertainment, and his recent courtship of Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship reveals just how serious he is about his comeback plans.
McMahon Makes His Move on BKFC
David Feldman, the founder and president of Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, recently dropped a bombshell during an interview with Justin Barrasso of Undisputed. The former WWE chairman personally reached out about acquiring a controlling stake in the rapidly growing combat sports promotion.
This wasn’t just a casual inquiry from McMahon’s representatives. The man himself came to the table, demonstrating that his appetite for the entertainment business remains as voracious as ever.
Why the Deal Fell Through
Feldman’s reasoning for walking away from what could have been a game-changing partnership comes down to two critical factors: timing and control. The BKFC executive made it clear that surrendering complete authority over his promotion wasn’t an option he was willing to consider.
“He’s a great guy, his whole team is great, but the timing wasn’t right for us. He’s Vince McMahon–if I were him, I’d want creative control, too. He was awesome, very complimentary, and he was very serious to do business.”
Feldman’s comments paint a picture of McMahon as the consummate businessman, even while navigating personal legal troubles. The BKFC boss emphasized McMahon’s professionalism and genuine interest in striking a deal.
The 14TH & I Investment Strategy
McMahon’s pursuit of BKFC aligns perfectly with his broader business strategy through his newly established investment firm, 14TH & I. This venture represents his vehicle for re-entering the entertainment landscape after his dramatic exit from WWE.
The failed BKFC acquisition attempt suggests McMahon is casting a wide net in combat sports. His approach indicates he’s not limiting himself to traditional wrestling formats but exploring every avenue where sports entertainment intersects with legitimate competition.
WWE Buyback Rumors Continue Swirling
Industry insiders continue speculating about McMahon’s ultimate endgame. Reports persist that he remains open to repurchasing WWE, the empire he built over decades before selling to Endeavor Group.
Former WWE announcer Jonathan Coachman recently made headlines by suggesting it would be “absurd” to think McMahon lacks the financial resources to reclaim his wrestling kingdom. These comments fuel ongoing speculation about whether McMahon views his current ventures as stepping stones back to WWE or genuine alternatives.
McMahon’s Next Chapter Takes Shape
The BKFC courtship reveals McMahon’s strategic thinking as he plots his entertainment industry return. Rather than starting from scratch, he’s targeting established properties with growth potential and built-in audiences.
His willingness to personally engage in negotiations, despite facing a sexual trafficking lawsuit, demonstrates remarkable confidence in his ability to compartmentalize business and legal challenges. This approach mirrors his decades-long pattern of maintaining WWE operations during various controversies.
As 2025 approaches, the wrestling and combat sports communities are watching McMahon’s moves with intense interest. His failed BKFC bid might be just the opening act in what promises to be a fascinating comeback story. Will McMahon find his perfect acquisition target, or is this all elaborate positioning for an eventual WWE reunion?
