Vince McMahon Jackie Brown/Splash News
Vince McMahon, the former pro wrestler-turned-CEO and Chairman of the Board at World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), stepped down from his position in June 2022 amidst ongoing investigations into misconduct allegations.
"I have expressed my full commitment to cooperate with the investigation conducted by the Special Committee, and I will make every effort to provide support throughout the process," he stated in a released statement. "Furthermore, I have made a commitment to accept the conclusions and outcome of the investigation, regardless of what they may be."
Several hours later, McMahon commenced SmackDown Live with great enthusiasm. "It is always an honor to address you all, the WWE universe, on this occasion," he declared during the broadcast on June 17, 2022. "I am here merely to remind you of the four words that we commonly refer to as our WWE signature. These four words are: then, now, forever, and the most crucial word of all is together. Welcome to SmackDown!"
Continuing the investigation into the allegations, federal law enforcement officials are still looking into McMahon's alleged misconduct. However, it is important to note that he has not yet faced any criminal charges.
Read on for a detailed account of McMahon's scandalous behavior:
What Was Vince McMahon Accused of?
Prior to McMahon's resignation from his WWE role, the Wall Street Journal revealed that he reached a $3 million settlement with a former employee following an accusation of an extramarital relationship. The allegations have yet to be addressed by McMahon in a public manner.
How Did Vince McMahon React to the Scandal?
Vince McMahon resigned as the CEO and Chairman of the board in June 2022, expressing his commitment to fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation and accepting its findings and consequences. In January 2023, he resumed his position as a board member and agreed to reimburse WWE for all expenses related to the investigation. Subsequently, in August of the same year, the SEC reported that McMahon has already paid approximately $17.4 million to cover these costs.
Who Replaced Vince McMahon as the CEO of WWE?
McMahon’s daughter, Stephanie McMahon, was appointed interim CEO and Chairwoman in her father’s absence.
"I am deeply devoted to this organization and dedicated to collaborating with the Independent Directors in order to enhance both our corporate culture and the overall strength of our company. The creation of a secure and harmonious workplace is of utmost importance to me," Stephanie stated in a formal declaration. "I am fully committed to utilizing every resource at my disposal to support the Special Committee in accomplishing its objectives, which includes mobilizing the entire company's cooperation to facilitate the investigation's completion and the implementation of its findings."
Is Vince McMahon Still Involved in WWE Operations?
During a press conference for WWE's Summer Slam in August 2023, Chief Creative Officer Triple H (real name Paul Levesque), who is married to Stephanie, revealed that Vince is currently not involved with the WWE creative team. Triple H expressed his appreciation for Vince's contributions and emphasized the significant impact his vision had on the business. He acknowledged that without Vince's influence, WWE might not have survived and credited him as the driving force behind the company's success for over 50 years. Triple H described Vince as having the greatest mind in the business and acknowledged the transformative changes he brought about.
He continued: "At this stage, if any of us fail to seek guidance from him on thoughts, ideas, or if we simply have a question to ask, we would be foolish to disregard this opportunity. Sitting next to someone who possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience in this field, someone who knows far more than you ever will, it would be unwise not to tap into that resource in some capacity. However, is he involved on a daily basis? No. Is he fully immersed in this all the time? No. If anyone has earned the privilege to do so, he has earned the right to provide insight and assistance when needed."
Has Vince McMahon Cooperated With the Federal Investigation?
Triple H commented on the diminished role of Vince's daily participation in the media brand, prompting the SEC to carry out a search warrant and subpoena against Vince and the WWE. CNN reported that U.S. federal agents requested specific document copies. Vince has yet to acknowledge the warrant and subpoena.