Steve Carrier on February 22, 2025
Former WWE Superstar Enzo Amore isn’t taking the news of Hooters’ financial troubles lightly. The outspoken wrestler, known for his larger-than-life personality, took to Twitter on February 22 to voice his devastation over reports that the legendary restaurant chain is on the verge of bankruptcy.
“Hooters has filed for Bankruptcy and I’m broken up bout it!! WE CANT LET HOOTERS DIE!” Amore tweeted, making it clear he’s not ready to say goodbye to the iconic wings and waitresses.
He didn’t stop there. In a move that only Amore could make, he publicly urged billionaires to step up and rescue the brand, even suggesting that TKO Group Holdings—WWE and UFC’s parent company—should swoop in and save the day. “THERES SO MANY BILLIONAIRES SOMEBODY GOTTA STEP UP… @TKOGrp should 100% BUY #HOOTERS AND MAKE IT THE OFFICIAL RESTAURANT OF @WWE & @ufc.”
Hooters, known for its wings, beer, and a dining experience that’s been a cultural staple for decades, is reportedly preparing for a potential bankruptcy filing. According to Bloomberg, the company has engaged law firm Ropes & Gray to explore options as it struggles with declining traffic and mounting debt. Sources suggest a Chapter 11 filing could happen within the next two months.
The restaurant industry has been hit hard in recent years, with major chains like TGI Friday’s and Red Lobster also facing financial struggles. Hooters had previously raised $300 million in asset-backed bonds in 2021, but its debt burden has become increasingly difficult to manage.
Despite closures of multiple underperforming locations, the company still has plans for expansion both domestically and internationally. However, with consumer preferences shifting and economic pressures mounting, Hooters is at a crossroads.
Enzo Amore’s plea to TKO Group to intervene is a wild but interesting idea. WWE and UFC fans already have a crossover audience with the brand’s target demographic, and Amore seems to think a partnership could be a win-win.
With the future of Hooters uncertain, the coming months will determine whether the brand can find a way to restructure or if it will be another casualty in the struggling casual dining sector.
What do you think about Enzo Amore’s call for WWE and UFC to save Hooters? Should TKO Group actually consider the move, or is it a long shot? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
February 22, 2025 8:46 am
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