After a brief departure from WWE earlier this year following allegations of sexual misconduct, Vince McMahon is planning to step back into the squared circle.
WWE soon launched an investigation on the allegations against Vince McMahon. At that point, McMahon stepped down as chairman and CEO of WWE, announcing he would officially retire, 40 years after purchasing the company. WWE would eventually go on to be a multi-billion-dollar monster in sports entertainment.
In a statement at the time, he said, “As I approach 77 years old, I feel it’s time for me to retire as Chairman and CEO of WWE. I would like to thank my family for mightily contributing to our success, and I would also like to thank all of our past and present Superstars and employees for their dedication and passion for our brand. Most importantly, I would like to thank our fans for allowing us into your homes every week and being your choice of entertainment.” John Lauranitis, then-head of talent of relations, was also cited in the accusations. Lauranitis has since been let go from WWE. It was later reported that the investigation cost the company nearly $20 million.
The 77-year-old McMahon’s return coincides with the WWE’s involvement in “media rights negotiations”, which could involve the sale of the company. For this announcement, Vince McMahon said, “WWE is entering a critical juncture in its history with the upcoming media rights negotiations coinciding with increased industry-wide demand for quality content and live events and with more companies seeking to own the intellectual property on their platforms…My return will allow WWE, as well as any transaction counterparties, to engage in these processes knowing they will have the support of the controlling shareholder.”
There’s no word on an approximate date that Vince McMahon would return to the WWE, but with the Royal Rumble later this month, it would seem the perfect time for a grand return–come down the aisle at #30, toss Brock Lesnar over the top rope and earn a title shot at Wrestlemania! (McMahon did actually win the 1999 Royal Rumble as his Mr. McMahon persona.)
What do you think of Vince McMahon returning to the WWE? Should he still be a presence or should he stay retired? Let us know your take below.