First published 2023
Abraham Riesman traces Vince McMahon's journey from his impoverished rural beginnings to becoming the commanding force behind WWE, one of the world's most powerful media companies. Through exclusive conversations with over 150 individuals who witnessed his climb to power, Riesman reveals how McMahon created the careers of wrestling superstars like Dwayne Johnson, Steve Austin, John Cena, and Hulk Hogan. The book examines McMahon's dual role as both corporate executive and on-screen villain "Mr. McMahon," exploring how his fictional persona mirrors his real personality. Riesman connects McMahon's influence to broader American politics, detailing his close friendship with Donald Trump, his wife Linda's cabinet position, and their substantial Republican donations. The author demonstrates how McMahon's programming served as Trump's political training ground and how WWE's deals with Saudi Arabia reflect larger geopolitical forces. This unauthorized investigation offers readers a new perspective on contemporary American culture through the lens of professional wrestling's most influential figure.
Genres: biography, business, american, non-fiction, 21st-century
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: rags-to-riches, rise-to-power
Setting: Saudi Arabia, United States
Period: 21st Century
464 pages · Hardcover · Atria Books