Vince McMahon, the chairman of TKO Group Holdings and the founder of WWE, has recently resigned amid a lawsuit filed against him by a former employee accusing him of sexual abuse and trafficking. The lawsuit, filed by Janelle Grant in US District Court in Connecticut, alleges that McMahon subjected her to physical and emotional abuse, sexual assault, and trafficking while she worked at the company.
According to Grant's attorneys, McMahon pressured her into signing a non-disclosure agreement in exchange for payments, which he later stopped making. They also claim that McMahon forced Grant into a sexual relationship to maintain her job and shared explicit photos and videos of her with other individuals, both within and outside of WWE. Grant's attorney states that McMahon exercised complete control over her personal and professional life, subjecting her to acts of cruelty and degradation that left her dissociated and numb.
In response to the allegations, McMahon vehemently denies the claims made by Grant. In a statement to Fox Digital, he called the lawsuit 'replete with lies' and 'obscene made-up instances.' He stands by his previous statement and intends to vigorously defend himself against what he considers baseless accusations.
Despite announcing his resignation, McMahon states that it is out of respect for the WWE universe, the TKO business, and other employees and superstars affiliated with WWE. It is important to note that this resignation comes as a surprise, given McMahon's long-standing involvement in the company he founded.
The lawsuit filed by Grant seeks an undisclosed amount of compensation from WWE, Vince McMahon, and a former WWE executive for the alleged abuses suffered during her employment. As this is a recently filed case, it remains to be seen how it will proceed through the legal system.
The allegations against Vince McMahon, a prominent figure in the wrestling industry, have drawn significant attention. The lawsuit raises important concerns regarding workplace safety and the treatment of employees. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for both WWE and the broader entertainment industry.