An internal memo from TKO has raised concerns within WWE and UFC after President Donald Trump reinstated a controversial travel ban. With the executive order set to take effect Monday, June 9, TKO is bracing for possible disruptions to its global roster of athletes and staff.
The memo, sent out Thursday evening and shared with POST Wrestling, was authored by UFC staff and circulated across the entire TKO organization. The urgency behind it suggests growing concernespecially as TKO oversees hundreds of international talents between its WWE and UFC divisions.
TKOs annual report shows the company employs over 1,300 people across 12 countries, with UFC having more than 650 fighters from 70+ nations and WWE representing 230 talents from 20+ countries. Some of those individuals come from countries directly affected by the new orderincluding Haiti, Libya, Iran, and Somalia.
According to the memo, the travel ban applies to foreign nationals currently outside of the U.S. who dont have valid visas. Those affected may face either full or partial suspension, depending on their country of origin. Passport holders from Afghanistan, Haiti, and Yemen, among others, fall under full suspension. Partial restrictions apply to countries like Cuba, Venezuela, Laos, and Togobut creative and work visas (like O-1 or H1-B) are still being allowed under strict conditions.
TKO also flagged the possibility of complications even for those with current visas.
Exceptions include green card holders, dual citizens using a passport from a non-restricted country, and individuals deemed to be entering the U.S. in the national interest. Athletes competing in major sporting events like the Olympics or World Cup are also exempt, if approved by the Secretary of State.
While WWE and UFC arent planning immediate events in the impacted countries, the internal review is focused on safeguarding talent who may be traveling for shows or training. The company also noted that the situation could evolve, pending legal challenges or further guidance from U.S. immigration officials.
With a global talent base and major events on the horizon, TKO is now tasked with monitoring how these restrictions may affect business. The next few weeks could reveal whether these immigration policies turn into logistical nightmaresor force difficult decisions about travel and bookings.
Do you think TKOs international stars will face major fallout from this policy? Should WWE and UFC adjust their travel or hiring strategies? Sound off in the comments and let us know your take.
