Janel Grant has shared her experience following the public revelation of her allegations against former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon. Grant claims that while working under McMahon, she was sexually abused and exploited, leading her to file a civil lawsuit in January 2024. Although she was not publicly known in 2022, that year marked the beginning of scrutiny on McMahon concerning sexual misconduct and questionable non-disclosure agreement payments. The Wall Street Journal contacted Grant about an upcoming story revealing her account, which left her feeling devastated and overwhelmed.
Grant revealed to POST Wrestling’s John Pollock how the news shook her to the core, causing her to collapse upon learning of the impending Wall Street Journal article. She shared that her attorney informed her McMahon expressed remorse and feelings of loneliness over the situation. Grant also expressed confusion and concern about McMahon’s state of mind when the story broke, wondering if he felt as lost as she did. She empathized with McMahon, explaining that only he could provide answers about what truly happened and whether she would be okay.
In a separate interview, Grant opened up about the dark period after the story went public, including suicidal thoughts while trying to adjust to a new job. She explained that her life felt hijacked by the narrative surrounding the allegations, questioning the meaning of her existence. Her former fiancé prevented her from acting on these impulses, providing crucial support that kept her moving forward. Despite attending a meeting at her new job, colleagues could sense her distress, even before she was officially named, with some offering quiet gestures of concern.
Grant’s lawsuit details ongoing struggles with anxiety, depression, and PTSD, which sometimes confine her at home for weeks. These mental health challenges contributed to her losing the new job she started in January 2023. The case was shifted to private arbitration as of June.
Fan Take: This story highlights the serious and long-lasting impact sexual misconduct allegations can have on those involved, beyond just the headlines. For fighting fans, it underscores the importance of accountability in the sport’s leadership and may prompt a broader conversation about creating safer, more respectful environments within wrestling and combat sports.
Source: www.wrestlinginc.com
