Jesse Ventura Reveals Complex Relationship with Vince McMahon, Cites Brand Control as Key Issue

Jesse Ventura, WWE Hall of Famer, recently discussed his complex relationship with former WWE Executive Chairman Vince McMahon. Ventura revealed that he had been in talks with WWE earlier this year, attracted by the company’s new direction under Triple H and TKO Group Holdings. He was even spotted backstage at a WWE event in July, interacting with CM Punk, another wrestler who had left and returned under new leadership.

In an interview, Ventura expressed admiration for McMahon but explained why their relationship was strained. He mentioned that his ownership of a gym gave him financial independence, allowing him to stand up to potential mistreatment in the wrestling industry. Ventura worked with WWE from 1984 to 1990, making only occasional appearances afterward. He believes he was never fully brought back because he refused to give up control of his brand.

Ventura clarified that while he and McMahon weren’t completely at odds, their relationship was complicated by Ventura’s insistence on maintaining ownership of his character name and rights. He described himself as a “stallion outside the corral,” unwilling to be controlled like other wrestlers under McMahon’s management. This independence, Ventura suggests, led to his departure from the company and limited his future involvement with WWE.

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