A new lawsuit has been filed against WWE founder Vince McMahon, accusing him of sexual abuse and trafficking by a former employee, Janel Grant. The legal complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut, also names WWE and former head of talent relations John Laurinaitis as defendants. The allegations shed light on McMahon’s alleged misuse of WWE resources for personal gain and the creation of a hostile work environment. McMahon, a prominent figure in the wrestling industry, stepped down as WWE CEO in July 2022 amid investigations into hush-money payments related to sexual misconduct claims.
The lawsuit filed by Janel Grant alleges that Vince McMahon used WWE resources to traffic her to other men, positioning her as a pawn to secure talent deals for the organization. McMahon is accused of engaging in sexual assault, making threats to Grant’s livelihood and reputation, and disseminating explicit content of her to thousands of individuals. The legal complaint outlines a pattern of alleged abuse, including promises of financial protection and payments that were not fulfilled. Grant seeks unspecified monetary damages and a declaratory judgment on the voidance of a nondisclosure agreement she signed.
The lawsuit details McMahon’s alleged actions, asserting that he showered Grant with gifts and promotions while simultaneously threatening her. McMahon is accused of engaging in sex acts with other WWE employees, leveraging his position of power to fulfill his “increasingly depraved” sexual demands. The legal complaint paints a picture of a coercive relationship that led to Grant’s resignation from WWE, accompanied by a non-disclosure agreement. McMahon allegedly failed to fulfill his promises of financial support, leading to legal action.
Grant’s attorney, Ann Callis, issued a statement expressing the purpose of the lawsuit. She emphasized that it aims to hold accountable WWE executives who allegedly sexually assaulted and trafficked Janel Grant, as well as the organization that either facilitated or turned a blind eye to the abuse. Callis underscored Grant’s hope that the legal action will prevent other women from being victimized and called for accountability for the alleged misconduct of WWE leadership.
A spokesperson for Vince McMahon issued a statement denying the allegations in the lawsuit. The statement labeled the lawsuit as filled with “lies” and “obscene made-up instances” that never occurred. McMahon declared his intention to vigorously defend himself against the accusations.
The lawsuit against Vince McMahon brings forth serious allegations of sexual abuse and trafficking within the wrestling industry. As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how WWE and Vince McMahon will respond to the claims made by Janel Grant, adding a new chapter to the ongoing scrutiny surrounding the wrestling mogul.