Janel Grant Stays Lawsuit Against WWE and Vince McMahon, Cooperating with SDNY Investigation

One Big Thing

The US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York (SDNY) has filed a notice of appearance in Janel Grant’s sexual misconduct case against Vince McMahon, John Laurinaitis, and WWE. As a result, Grant’s case has been granted a stay pending a non-public investigation.

Key Points

• Janel Grant has consented to the SDNY’s request to stay her case against McMahon, WWE, and Laurinaitis.
• Grant’s attorney, Ann Callis, stated they will cooperate with all appropriate next steps.
• McMahon’s counsel maintains that the evidence will prove Grant’s allegations are false.
• Assistant US Attorney Sarah Mortazavi, who filed the appearance, has previously been honored for her efforts in helping human trafficking victims.

Why It Matters

The SDNY’s involvement in the case signifies the seriousness of the allegations against McMahon and the potential for a broader investigation. The office’s focus on human trafficking and its recent high-profile convictions suggest that the case may extend beyond a civil lawsuit.

WWE’s Response

WWE recently joined McMahon and Laurinaitis in a filing to have the lawsuit moved to arbitration. Despite McMahon’s resignation from his position as Executive Chairman of TKO and WWE, he and his attorneys continue to deny the allegations.

The Original Lawsuit

Janel Grant filed the lawsuit in January, alleging that McMahon sexually exploited her and trafficked her to his associates during her tenure with the company. The filing included graphic alleged text exchanges from McMahon to Grant.

As the case develops, it remains to be seen how the SDNY’s involvement will impact the lawsuit and the broader implications for McMahon and WWE. What are your thoughts on this developing story? Leave a comment below.