The Wrestling World in Turmoil: DOJ Investigates Vince McMahon for Alleged Sex Trafficking Ties
The professional wrestling industry has been thrown into chaos with the shocking news that Vince McMahon, the chairman of WWE, is currently under investigation by the Department of Justice for potential links to sex trafficking. As the controversy unfolds, a lawsuit accusing McMahon of involvement in sex trafficking has been put on hold, leaving both fans and critics uncertain about the future of the WWE and its iconic leader. With McMahon’s reputation at stake, the wrestling community finds itself split, eagerly anticipating further developments in this unfolding scandal.
Investigation Into McMahon and WWE by DOJ
The lawsuit, brought forth by a former WWE employee, containing allegations of sex trafficking and sexual assault, has been halted as the Department of Justice initiates an investigation into Vince McMahon, WWE, and former WWE head of talent relations, John Laurinaitis. In a sealed filing, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District Of New York provided details to the Federal court about the probe into McMahon, WWE, and Laurinaitis.
The Pause in the Lawsuit
Janel Grant, the ex-WWE employee who filed the explosive lawsuit against her former employers, has agreed to halt her case as the Department of Justice begins its investigation. Grant’s lawyer, Ann Callis, confirmed that Ms. Grant has consented to a request by the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York to suspend her case against Mr. McMahon, WWE, and Mr. Laurinaitis, pending a private investigation.
Allegations and Denials
The lawsuit filed by Grant in January contained disturbing allegations of sexual assault, sex trafficking, and exploitation that she claims to have endured while working for McMahon at WWE. The lawsuit detailed numerous incidents, including an accusation that McMahon and Laurinaitis sexually assaulted her in a conference room at WWE headquarters. Additionally, it was alleged that McMahon shared explicit content of Grant with WWE employees and an unnamed athlete. McMahon, who stepped down as executive chairman of TKO Group Holdings following the lawsuit, has vehemently denied all accusations.
Developments in McMahon’s Holdings
In the aftermath of the lawsuit, McMahon has been gradually divesting his shares in TKO, the merged company of UFC and WWE. TKO has distanced itself from McMahon, with the company president, Mark Shapiro, stating that there has been no communication with McMahon as he continues to sell off his shares.
Significance of DOJ Investigation
The sealed filing by the Department of Justice underscores the gravity of the investigation, particularly with Grant’s lawsuit being paused as a result. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District Of New York has yet to issue a public statement regarding the probe into McMahon and WWE.