Saboor takes job with WWE

The resignation takes effect Aug. 8, at which point Saboor will become vice president of special events for WWE (NYSE:WWE).

Saboor spent nearly 15 years at the commission, serving as executive director before being named president in 2006. As president, he oversaw the day-to-day operations and helped attract and retain more than 500 events, which created more than $370 million of new economic impact for the region.

WWE Chairman Vince McMahon said Saboor was instrumental in convincing WWE officials to bring WrestleMania 24 to Orlando. The event set records for ticket sales and ticket revenue.

"He really understands our brand. He is an ideal person to step into this position," McMahon said in a prepared statement.

Saboor also was responsible in attracting the United States Bowling Congress to host its Open Championships and Women's Championships in Osceola County in alternating years through 2029. Osceola officials estimate the tournaments will generate $750 million in economic impact during the 18-year contract.

"It is certainly disappointing for the CFSC to lose such a tremendous talent in John Saboor," said Commission Chairwoman Kathy Milthorpe. "His strategic vision and tireless dedication to growing sports and entertainment events in Central Florida has elevated this region to national prominence."

This month he was named one of the Top 25 Innovators and Influencers in Amateur Sports by SportsEvents Magazine.

The Central Florida Sports Commission is a non-profit, private organization created to attract regional, national and international events and sports-related business to Central Florida. The commission serves Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Lake and Volusia Counties and the city of Orlando as the region's clearinghouse for sports-related economic development.