OCTAGON LEADERS NAMED TO SPORTS BUSINESS JOURNAL’S INFLUENCE 125
December 8, 2025
Rick Dudley, Phil de Picciotto and John Shea Recognized Among the Most Influential Figures in Sports Business Over the Past 25 Years
Sports Business Journal has named Octagon leaders John Shea, Phil de Picciotto and Rick Dudley to its “Influence 125” list, recognizing the most influential sports business figures of the past quarter-century. Shea, de Picciotto and Dudley collectively occupy one spot on the list.
The Influence 125 highlights individuals whose leadership and impact have helped shape the modern sports industry. Under their leadership, Octagon has grown into a global force in sports and entertainment, with 22 offices worldwide and eight Sports Business Awards across agency, talent representation and corporate consulting.
Founder and President Phil de Picciotto has roots with Octagon predecessor Advantage dating back to 1983 and has long led the agency’s talent marketing business. That work includes representing some of the most accomplished athletes in sports, including fellow Influence 125 honorees Simone Biles and Michael Phelps.
Rick Dudley led Octagon from 2003 to 2022, guiding the agency through a period of significant growth and expansion. John Shea, who joined Octagon in 1994, assumed the CEO role following Dudley’s retirement and continues to lead the agency’s global operations.
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