A new report claims that controversial Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick will remain in his position should Microsoft’s planned acquisition of the industry giant not go ahead.
That’s according to Fox Business, which cites “sources close to the situation” that Kotick “will absolutely remain at the gaming giant to run the company” should the deal all through.
It had previously been reported that Kotick would leave his position with the video game giant if Microsoft should acquire the company. However, in April last year it was reported that the CEO had not discussed his future plans.
No discussions or negotiations regarding post-closing employment arrangements with Microsoft occurred between Microsoft and Mr Kotick prior to the approval and the execution of the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, or have occurred subsequent to such approval and execution, through the date hereof.
Kotick previously accused Sony of attempting to sabotage the transaction, and claimed that the PlayStation maker has stopped returning Activision’s calls. Meanwhile, the CMA’s provisional ruling of the proposed acquisition has found that it will result in a lack of competition.
Microsoft has said that Nintendo and Sony will remain the ‘biggest players in traditional gaming‘ if the deal goes through, and has assured the Call of Duty franchise will remain on PlayStation platforms if it goes through.
[Source – Fox Business via VGC]