The XFL, a professional football league set to return for its second season in 2024, faced financial challenges in 2023, reportedly losing $60 million. While the league has garnered more success than many other off-season football ventures, -- and become the only version of the XFL to survive its first full year -- there have been concerns raised about its future. However, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, the Hollywood actor, former WWE star, and part of the XFL's ownership group, is addressing the doubts and emphasizing the league's long-term vision.Johnson, along with the rest of the ownership group, views the XFL as a lasting project rather than a short-lived endeavor. Despite significant financial losses, they remain committed to improving and building a legacy. "This is not just an endeavor that's going to fill up a portfolio and one day we flip it and we're out," Johnson stated. "This is legacy. This is the long game."

Reports of financial struggles have also fueled speculation about potential job cuts within the league. While the situation is far from ideal, there is optimism surrounding the upcoming season, as the XFL is projected to generate approximately $100 million in revenue. Johnson and his business partner, Dany Garcia, remain undeterred by the challenges. Garcia, who is also the XFL chair, expressed confidence in the league's long-term financial stability, stating, "We're extremely well-capitalized for the long-term. This is our new WWE. The next massive live property."

Can The XFL Be A Success?

In 2020, Johnson and Garcia, in partnership with Disney and RedBird Capital, purchased the XFL for $23.5 million during its bankruptcy proceedings. They took control through a joint venture holding company called Alpha Acquico, which also included $8.5 million to settle previous XFL debt. Previous attempts to make the league profitable in 2001 and 2020, led by WWE chairman Vince McMahon, ultimately led to the league folding.

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Despite the financial setback in 2023, the XFL remains determined to establish itself as a sustainable and prosperous football league for years to come. That could mean the Rock stays busier than ever and a return to WWE is unlikely. That said, maybe he sees a promotional opportunity with WWE and shows up to get a cheap plug or two for his football product.

This hasn't been a great week for The Rock. Young Rock was canceled and the XFL lost $60 million. Something suggests he's probably still doing OK though.