After four long years, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson returned home to the WWE. At the Ball Arena in Denver, fans were not expecting The Great One’s music to hit on this episode of SmackDown. With the announcement of the UFC-WWE merger and The Rock’s return, many fans were oblivious to one of the darkest days in the WWE’s history.

The WWE and UFC finally merged to form TKO Holdings Group. While Vince McMahon surprised fans with a new look and The Rock returned, something of a different tone was taking place behind the scenes. 

The WWE lays off over 100 employees in one day post the merger

On September 15, WWE President Nick Khan sent out an email stating that layoffs would be taking place in the WWE. He thanked people for their patience and understanding and their contribution to the company over the years. This would be normal in every company. However, the number of people who were getting laid off might be in the triple digits.

According to reports from PWInsider, and Ringsidenews the WWE’s Insight & Analytical team, with 20 members, saw 17 get laid off. This leaves the department with only three working members. According to people still employed at the WWE, this layoff has been widespread, with multiple departments getting the axe post the merger. 

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An internal memo sent out on September 14 by Khan explained the reason for these layoffs. The memo explained that this was part of the transition from the WWE to the new TKO. The company was evaluating the existing operations and systems. This was to ensure synergy between both companies. The memo did mention that this step would include workforce reduction, which would take place on September 15.

“Oh Dear”, “I’m Worried”: Latest Update on WWE-UFC Merger Brings More Bad News for Employees, Fans React

As of September 12, 2023, the UFC and WWE merged to form TKO Holdings Group. As of now, the total number of employees removed from their posts seems to be around a staggering 100. According to insiders, employees were expecting a call from the higher-ups regarding their termination once the merger was successful. 

TKO Holdings Group and the Future of the WWE and UFC

Despite the UFC and WWE now merging to become one entity, both will operate separately with crossover events. While Vince McMahon will oversee the entire entity, Triple H will still be the Chief Content Officer and Head Of Creative for WWE. Dana White will still oversee the UFC. The first main event crossover is yet to be announced, but fans are excited. Right after the merger, during the first SmackDown episode, The Rock returned to the WWE.

Social media going gaga over The Rock’s return is nothing new. However, many WWE fans and experts criticize the company’s move to lay off over 100 employees in one day. While the WWE has justified its action as part of the transition, fans of the company are not happy.

As more and more fans learn about the 100-employee layoff atrocity, the reactions to The Rock returning may be turning a bit sour. Many claim that this was timed to overshadow what will now be considered a dark day in WWE’s history.

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