Vince McMahon’s time with WWE and TKO has come to an end, and he may be just the first of many to exit both companies.
McMahon’s departure from WWE/TKO was announced mere hours ago. Earlier this week, Janel Grant, a former WWE employee, alleged that McMahon had sexually abused her and trafficked her during her tenure with the company. After his resignation was announced, McMahon continued to deny the claims made against him in the lawsuit, which he has previously described as “obscene made-up instances.”
More Departures to Come?
There is a belief in WWE that Endeavor may sweep out anyone close to Vince McMahon following the billionaire’s resignation this week, PW Insider reports. The gist is that a complete “fresh start” for the company is needed going forward, which may mean cuts to his remaining team.
There were employees who exited WWE when McMahon initially re-signed in 2022 who would find a way back when he strong-armed his way back onto the Board of Directors in January 2023. There is also a belief among those PW Insider spoke to that anyone with a connection to McMahon may be seen as a major negative going forward, and that may affect their WWE status.
Backstage Reaction
Those within WWE expected a fallout after Slim Jim paused their big-money sponsorship with the company due to the allegations. Sources within WWE added that anyone’s connection to McMahon may be seen as a “major negative going forward.” Those who left when McMahon did in 2022 and who returned when he returned in January 2023 could be on the chopping block.
Changing WWE Plans?
McMahon may be gone, but this situation could possibly change plans for tonight’s Royal Rumble Premium Live Event. Brock Lesnar is expected for tonight’s event, but this may change due to Grant’s lawsuit. While Lesnar isn’t mentioned by name, Grant alleges that she was trafficked to a former UFC Heavyweight Champion, believed to be Brock.