One of the things I enjoy with my teenage son is World Wrestling Entertainment. As with all sports, it's important not to take the WWE too seriously and it's the 3rd word in the company's title that's the key. Focus on the "E" and it's fun.

A week ago, it was announced that Donald Trump had acquired one of the WWE's brands - Monday Night RAW. RAW is a 2-hour weekly show originating from various arenas primarily around the United States but from time to time throughout the world. Notably, the WWE is a huge supporter of the U.S. Armed Forces, frequently visiting US troops at their bases around the world.

Trump's acquisition of RAW received huge attention. Not only was he featured on the June 15 show, but he also held a press conference in Green Bay, Wisconsin which is where the June 22nd show - Trump's first as owner - was held.

Now, Trump buying RAW could make economic sense. It's a highly watched television program, sells lots of advertising and has a live gate every week (and the tickets ain't cheap). In addition, as a WWE attraction owner, Trump might get a cut of the company's very lucrative, monthly pay-per-view programs, merchandise sales and the like.

But the June 22nd show featuring Trump as RAW's new owner contained the weirdest economic discussion I think I've ever witnessed outside of a government building. Trump announced the previous week that the June 22nd show would be run commercial-free, the first time that had ever been done. He further announced during the show that everyone in attendance would get a refund and that future RAW programs would also be commercial-free. These announcements brought WWE Chairman - and former owner of RAW - Vince McMahon out from backstage to engage Trump. Trump's plans, McMahon protested were going to cost McMahon money. McMahon claimed that he would be the one losing millions in advertising revenue and gate receipts.

It made me wonder just what kind of a deal Trump had cut here. He bought the RAW brand, but didn't stand to receive any of the advertising revenue or gate? How in the world was he ever going to receive a return on his investment? I understand acting and playing a part as well as anyone, but this has to be the stupidest deal the author of "The Art of the Deal" has ever made in a long business career.

At the end of the day, McMahon bought RAW back from Trump for twice what Trump had paid for it a week ago. Not a bad return, but for some reason I suspect the transaction may have been phony. In any event, the fact that millions watching this show probably believe that Trump really stuck it to the hated Vince McMahon is a testament to the lousy economic education Americans are receiving. It's no wonder the Oregon Legislature can raise taxes on business and claim that the extra money will just come from a magic box somewhere when in reality it will come from the pockets of employees and customers. The Legislature's understanding of economics is about on a par with that of the WWE fans who followed the bouncing RAW.