Co-founder and wrestling icon of WWE, Vince McMahon, has announced his resignation from the organization’s parent company following disturbing accusations of sexual misconduct and sex trafficking.
The decision comes in the wake of a graphic lawsuit filed by former employee Janel Grant, alleging that she was offered for sex to an unnamed star wrestler.
McMahon, who vehemently denies the allegations, has relinquished his role as executive chairman of the board of directors at TKO Group, as confirmed by the company.
In response to the allegations, McMahon stated, “I stand by my prior statement that Ms. Grant’s lawsuit is replete with lies, obscene made-up instances that never occurred, and is a vindictive distortion of the truth.
The lawsuit, lodged in Connecticut, details McMahon’s purported mistreatment of Grant, alleging “acts of extreme cruelty and degradation” that left her emotionally numb.
Another individual implicated in the case is John Laurinaitis, WWE’s former head of talent relations and general manager, who has yet to offer comment on the matter.
Grant, seeking justice, aims to void a $3 million non-disclosure agreement, asserting that she received only $1 million.
The lawsuit also includes damning screenshots of explicit messages allegedly sent by McMahon to Grant, shedding light on the disturbing nature of the allegations.
McMahon’s departure marks a significant development in the world of professional wrestling, where he has been a central figure for decades, renowned for his scripted matches and blockbuster events like Wrestlemania.
WWE’s merger with the firm behind UFC last year led to the formation of TKO Group Holdings, where McMahon served as executive chairman until his resignation.
TKO Group emphasized its commitment to addressing the allegations seriously, stating, “While this matter pre-dates our TKO executive team’s tenure at the company, we take Ms. Grant’s horrific allegations very seriously and are addressing this matter internally.”
