WWE’s Vince McMahon hit with federal subpoena, search warrant
Vince McMahon, famed head of the world’s largest professional wrestling organization, was hit with a federal subpoena and a search warrant in connection to allegations the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) founder paid millions of dollars to silence sexual misconduct claims.
WWE confirmed Wednesday that its investigation into claims involving the 77-year-old entrepreneur concluded at the close of 2022, while feds continue looking into the matter.
“On July 17, 2023, federal law enforcement agents executed a search warrant and served a federal grand jury subpoena on Mr. McMahon,” the WWE verified in an SEC filing. “No charges have been brought in these investigations.”
While it does not appear that the investigation will look at the WWE’s recent merger with the UFC under Endeavor Group Holdings, the WWE said it has “received voluntary and compulsory legal demands for documents” from federal regulators and law enforcement regarding allegations involving McMahon.
Earlier this year, it was announced that Endeavor signed a definitive agreement to form a new, publicly listed company consisting of two iconic, complementary, global sports and entertainment brands: UFC and WWE. Endeavor will hold a 51% controlling interest in the new company and existing WWE shareholders will hold a 49% interest in the new company.
McMahon had retired in July last year as the company’s CEO and chairman, following an investigation into his alleged misconduct. He returned as the executive chairman of the media and entertainment company’s board after co-chief executive officer and chairwoman Stephanie McMahon stepped down.
Endeavor purchased the UFC from Zuffa LLC in July 2016. The $4.4 billion sale was the largest in sports franchise history.
