Vince McMahon recently resigned from his position at TKO Group after a lawsuit from former WWE employee Janel Grant accused him of sex trafficking, sexual assault, and more. WWE and John Laurinaitis are also named as defendants in the lawsuit.
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter has shared some details on the backstage reaction to the news, including how some felt about McMahon.
One Superstar called reading the lawsuit “emotionally scarring,” noting that it was devastating to talent who had previously tried to obtain McMahon’s “love and approval,” only to learn that they worked for someone who “didn’t care about their talents.”
The Superstar stated, “Vince made so many of us feel small and awful. We all had to obey his abuse in order to keep our jobs.”
It is believed that the news affected the women negatively backstage, and things could get worse as more women come forward.
One main roster Superstar stated that no one from WWE management has spoken to them about the matter other than to say McMahon won’t be returning.
The wrestlers were also told “how successful the Royal Rumble was and how big the new Netflix deal is.”
Vince McMahon, the former chairman and CEO of TKO Group, recently resigned from his position after facing serious allegations in a lawsuit filed by former WWE employee Janel Grant. The lawsuit accuses McMahon of sex trafficking, sexual assault, and other misconduct. WWE and John Laurinaitis, a senior producer for the company, are also named as defendants in the lawsuit.
The news of McMahon’s resignation has sent shockwaves through the wrestling industry, and the backstage reaction has been mixed. According to The Wrestling Observer Newsletter, some wrestlers have expressed their feelings about McMahon and the lawsuit. One Superstar described reading the lawsuit as “emotionally scarring,” highlighting the devastating impact it has had on talent who had previously sought McMahon’s love and approval. This revelation shattered their perception of McMahon as someone who cared about their talents.
The Superstar further revealed, “Vince made so many of us feel small and awful. We all had to obey his abuse in order to keep our jobs.” This statement sheds light on the alleged toxic work environment that some wrestlers endured under McMahon’s leadership.
The impact of these allegations is particularly felt among the women in the industry. It is believed that the news has affected them negatively backstage, and there is a concern that more women may come forward with similar experiences. The wrestling community is bracing itself for potential revelations that could further tarnish the reputation of McMahon and WWE.
Interestingly, despite the gravity of the situation, some wrestlers have expressed disappointment with WWE management’s response. One main roster Superstar stated that no one from WWE management has addressed the matter with them, except to inform them that McMahon will not be returning. This lack of communication may contribute to a sense of unease and uncertainty among the wrestlers.
In an attempt to divert attention from the controversy surrounding McMahon, wrestlers were reportedly informed about the success of the recent Royal Rumble event and the lucrative new Netflix deal. This tactic may be seen as an effort to shift the focus away from the allegations and maintain a positive image for the company.
As the fallout from this lawsuit continues, the wrestling industry is left grappling with the implications of McMahon’s resignation and the allegations against him. The hope is that this situation will lead to a thorough investigation and, if necessary, justice for those who have been affected. The wrestling community is now faced with the challenge of rebuilding trust and creating a safer environment for all involved.