Vince McMahon stepped down as the longtime CEO and chairman of pro wrestling market leader WWE on July 22.
The 76-year-old's resignation followed reports of federal investigations into allegations that the veteran promoter paid millions of dollars in hush money to cover up claims of sexual misconduct, per The Wall Street Journal.
The Journal added that these investigations hastened McMahon's departure.
Despite the industry-shaking development, stock in WWE rose 8% on a single day last week to levels not seen since 2019.
As of Monday, it is trading at $70.93 per share.
Wrestling Inc. reported last week that this could mean investors are speculating on a possible sale.
CNBC also said that WWE is at a "crossroads," as McMahon's retirement and scandals "heighten sale speculation."
It referenced WWE's new co-CEO Nick Khan, who said earlier this year — before McMahon stepped down — that "we're open for business," when discussing selling the business during an episode of The Ringer's 'The Town' podcast.
CNBC also cited "a source familiar with the matter" said that the company isn't currently in sale talks.
Regardless, that doesn't mean that a number of big American companies might not consider making a move for the $5 billion WWE, multiple reports suggest.
Here are five of the companies speculatively linked with a bid.