Rick Ross shifts focus from Wingstop franchises to stocks

Rapper Rick Ross has addressed claims regarding the decline of his Wingstop franchise holdings, stating that his investment strategy has transitioned from operating physical locations to holding company stock.

The discussion follows reports from investor Eric Jackson, who analyzed Wingstop state franchise filings. Jackson noted that the Boss Wings companies, managed by Ross’s family, listed 21 open restaurants at the end of 2016, but filings indicated only one location remaining in Clarksdale, Mississippi, by the end of 2025.

Following social media mockery from rival 50 Cent regarding the reduced store count, Ross released a video clarifying his position. While affirming his continued support for the brand, Ross explained that the stock market offers a level of scale that franchising cannot match. He did not disclose the specific amount of Wingstop stock he holds or the timing of his purchases.

Ross has been associated with the chain since 2010. His franchise involvement included opening locations in Memphis and Miami. In 2022, the Department of Labor found that Boss Wings had illegally deducted certain costs from workers' pay at five Mississippi locations, resulting in over $114,000 in back wages and penalties.