Vince McMahon Accused Of Trafficking & Sexual Assault By Former WWE Employee

Vince McMahon has been sued by a former WWE employee, who has accused the brand’s founder of sexual exploitation and trafficking. Janel Grant filed her suit in the US District of Connecticut. The suit names McMahon, the WWE, and former head of talent relations John Laurinaitis. Grant alleges that both men sexually assaulted her on WWE property and trafficked her to secure contracts with prospective talent.

Furthermore, McMahon allegedly “repeatedly used sex toys named after other WWE employees, wrestlers and performers to sexually groom Ms. Grant for trafficking to those same people,” according to the suit. The suit comes just days after the WWE, which McMahon resigned from in 2022 over claims of hush money to cover up sexual assault allegations, signed a blockbuster streaming deal with Netflix. The streaming giant will have exclusive broadcast rights to Monday Night RAW starting in 2025.

Read More: “Protect Taylor Swift” Trends As Fans Fight Back Against NSFW AI Images Of Singer

Linda McMahon Reportedly Forced Alleged Assault Victim To Quit

However, Grant’s suit also claims that she did not leave the WWE under her own volition. Per the suit, she “was abruptly pressured to resign from the WWE and forced to sign an NDA days before a major financial deadline for the organization. This was under the guise that Mr. McMahon would ‘protect her’ financially and reputationally, and pay her $3 million. However, Mr. McMahon later refused to make payments to Ms. Grant. He also falsely claimed that she had leaked information to the press.” Grant claims to have been paid $1 million in 2022 but received no payments after that. Furthermore, Grant claims that her abrupt dismissal came after Linda McMahon, Vince’s wife, found about his actions with Grant.

“Today’s complaint seeks to hold accountable two WWE executives who sexually assaulted and trafficked Plaintiff Janel Grant, as well as the organization that facilitated or turned a blind eye to the abuse and then swept it under the rug. She is an incredibly private and courageous person who has suffered deeply at the hands of Mr. McMahon and Mr. Laurinaitis. Ms. Grant hopes that her lawsuit will prevent other women from being victimized. The organization is well aware of Mr. McMahon’s history of depraved behavior. And it’s time that they take responsibility for the misconduct of its leadership,” Grant’s attorney said in a statement.

Read More: Vin Diesel Denies Sexual Battery Allegations

[via]

The post Vince McMahon Accused Of Trafficking & Sexual Assault By Former WWE Employee appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

WWE’s ‘Monday Night Raw’ to Move to Netflix in 2025

WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns Diagnosed With Leukemia, Takes an Immediate Leave of Absence

WWE’s longest-running episodic television show in history is headed to Netflix. The sports entertainment giant has announced a deal with Netflix that will send the live wrestling show to the streaming platform in 2025.

The deal ends a three-decade run for Raw on linear television in a deal that is expected to pay the WWE $400 million a year over a five-year run. WWE is currently airing on USA network, under the NBCUniversal umbrella, in a deal that brings in $250-260 million per year.

WWE’s current showing on USA will end in Oct. 2024. A host for the program between October and January has not been announced.

“We are excited to have WWE Raw, with its huge and passionate multigenerational fan base, on Netflix,” said Netflix chief content officer Bela Bajaria. “By combining our reach, recommendations and fandom with WWE, we’ll be able to deliver more joy and value for their audiences and our members. Raw is the best of sports entertainment, blending great characters and storytelling with live action 52 weeks a year and we’re thrilled to be in this long-term partnership with WWE.”

“In its relatively short history, Netflix has engineered a phenomenal track record for storytelling,” said Nick Khan, WWE president. “We believe Netflix, as one of the world’s leading entertainment brands, is the ideal long-term home for Raw’s live, loyal, and ever-growing fan base.” 

“This deal is transformative,” added Mark Shapiro, president and COO of WWE parent company TKO. “It marries the can’t-miss WWE product with Netflix’s extraordinary global reach and locks in significant and predictable economics for many years. Our partnership fundamentally alters and strengthens the media landscape, dramatically expands the reach of WWE, and brings weekly live appointment viewing to Netflix.”

According to Variety, WWE recently sold the rights for Smackdown to NBCUniversal and USA network in a five-year, $1.4 billion deal. NXT will move to the CW at $20-25 million yearly at the five-year mark.

The post WWE’s ‘Monday Night Raw’ to Move to Netflix in 2025 first appeared on The Source.

The post WWE’s ‘Monday Night Raw’ to Move to Netflix in 2025 appeared first on The Source.

WWE News: Wrestler Appears At Live Event In Actual Wedding Dress

WWE Superstar Shotzi recently graced a WWE live event in a most unconventional attire – her actual wedding dress. This unique occurrence took place on December 29th, just after Shotzi’s spontaneous wedding in Las Vegas.

The event not only highlighted Shotzi’s commitment to her craft but also added an unforgettable chapter to her wrestling career.

Read More: WWE News: These Superstars Could Leave in 2024

WWE News: A Surprise Wedding and a Memorable Match

Shotzi, who had previously announced her engagement in July, took her fans by surprise by revealing her sudden marriage on social media. The wedding, a spontaneous decision, added an extra layer of excitement to the WWE live event that followed shortly after. At the event, Shotzi teamed up with Bianca Belair to face Bayley and Iyo Sky in a tag team match. The sight of Shotzi competing in her wedding dress was not just a testament to her dedication but also a symbol of her unique and fearless character in the WWE universe.

Read More: WWE News: Logan Paul Trolls South Park Right Back With Video Response

WWE News: Shotzi’s Journey in WWE

Shotzi’s journey in WWE has been marked by her charismatic persona and her ability to connect with the audience. Her time in NXT saw her become a fan favorite, thanks to her dynamic in-ring performances and her distinctive character. As she continues to be an integral part of Friday Night SmackDown, her recent wedding and the subsequent live event appearance have added a new chapter to her already impressive career.

Read More: WWE News: South Park Hilariously Spoof WWE Champion

The Future for Shotzi in WWE

As fans and WWE officials ponder what the future holds for Shotzi, her recent actions have certainly raised her profile within the WWE community. Her willingness to blend personal milestones with her professional commitments speaks volumes about her passion for wrestling. It remains to be seen how WWE will capitalize on this momentum. However, one thing is clear: Shotzi is a Superstar who knows how to make an impact.

Read More: WWE’s Liv Morgan Arrested On Possession Charges

Fans’ Reaction to Shotzi’s Wedding Dress Appearance

The reaction from fans to Shotzi’s wedding dress appearance has been overwhelmingly positive. This event has not only added a memorable chapter to Shotzi’s career but has also showcased her dedication to wrestling and her ability to engage with fans in unique ways.

Shotzi’s appearance in her wedding dress at a WWE live event is a testament to her dedication to her profession and her ability to surprise and delight fans. This event is not just a memorable moment in her career but also a reflection of her unique character and commitment to the world of WWE.

The post WWE News: Wrestler Appears At Live Event In Actual Wedding Dress appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

WWE News: Logan Paul Trolls South Park Right Back With Video Response

In a striking display of humor and self-awareness, WWE United States Champion Logan Paul recently turned the tables on “South Park” by recreating a parody of himself featured in the show in one of the best bits of WWE news this month.

This move not only highlights Paul’s versatility as a public figure but also his unique ability to engage with popular culture and criticism in a light-hearted manner.

Read More: WWE’s Liv Morgan Arrested On Possession Charges

From the Ring to the Screen: Logan Paul’s Diverse Talents

Logan Paul, a name synonymous with unexpected success in WWE, has shown time and again his capability to excel in various domains. His latest venture into the realm of parody is a testament to this.

By recreating the “South Park” spoof, Paul demonstrates not just his athletic prowess but also his knack for engaging with and contributing to popular culture.

Read More: CM Punk Net Worth 2023: What Is The WWE Superstar Worth?

The South Park Parody: A Comedic Perspective

Logan Paul on Varney and Co
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 10: Logan Paul visits “Varney & Co.” at Fox Business Network Studios on November 10, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images)

The “South Park” episode in question humorously targeted Logan Paul and his PRIME energy drink, co-founded with KSI. The episode featured a character promoting a fictional energy drink named “CRED,” mirroring the controversy surrounding PRIME. The parody would poke holes at its appropriateness for younger audiences. This parody, while poking fun at Paul, also sheds light on the broader issue of celebrity endorsements. Mainly, how they can affect the youth market they are appealing to.

Read More: Logan Paul Celebrates “Champ Life” With WWE Belt Thirst Traps

Logan Paul Response: Embracing the Parody

In an unexpected but fitting response, Logan Paul embraced the parody by meticulously recreating it. He would also end up and sharing his version on Twitter.

This act of self-parody not only showcased Paul’s sense of humor but also his willingness to engage with criticism in a playful and positive manner. His response was well-received by fans. Those who saw the video appreciated seeing a different side of the athlete.

Read More: Rhea Ripley’s Latest Instagram Post Has Fans Begging Her To Step On Them

WWE News: Fan Reactions – A Positive Embrace

The response from fans to Logan Paul’s video was overwhelmingly positive. They enjoyed his humorous and self-aware approach to the spoof. This reaction underscores the importance of public figures being able to engage with their portrayals in media, especially in a manner that is both respectful and entertaining.

Read More: WWE News: Superstars Confirm They Are Engaged

WWE News: Implications for Logan Paul’s Career

This move by Logan Paul is indicative of his ability to navigate different forms of media and entertainment, extending beyond his athletic career. It shows his adaptability and willingness to explore various facets of the entertainment industry, potentially opening doors for future endeavors in areas outside of wrestling.

Logan Paul in WWE: A Continuing Saga

As of now, Logan Paul remains an active and prominent figure in WWE, defending his United States Championship. His foray into the world of parody and popular culture does not detract from his commitment to his wrestling career but rather adds another layer to his multifaceted public persona.

Logan Paul’s response to the “South Park” parody is a clever and engaging way to address criticism. It also allows him to participate in the cultural conversation. It reflects his ability to transcend traditional boundaries of sports entertainment, showcasing a blend of athleticism, humor, and media savvy.

The post WWE News: Logan Paul Trolls South Park Right Back With Video Response appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

WWE News: South Park Hilariously Spoof WWE Champion

In a remarkable blend of animation and professional wrestling, “South Park,” the renowned Comedy Central series, recently aired an episode that humorously parodied WWE United States Champion Logan Paul.

This episode, a part of the special “South Park (Not Suitable For Children),” featured a character remarkably similar to Paul, including a spoof of his PRIME energy drink.

Read More: WWE News: Rival’s Top Champion Talks Potential Move to WWE

WWE News: South Park’s Wrestling Satire

“South Park” creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone have a history of integrating real-life personalities and events into their satirical universe. Their latest episode continues this tradition, demonstrating their ongoing interest in professional wrestling and its cultural significance.

Read More: WWE’s Liv Morgan Arrested On Possession Charges

Logan Paul’s Animated Doppelgänger

The episode revolves around Randy Marsh discovering a teacher with an OnlyFans page. This leads him into the world of social influencers.

Among these influencers is a character named Logan, who is clearly a version of Paul. ‘Logan’ promotes a drink called CRED, mirroring Logan Paul and his PRIME energy drink. This parody didn’t go unnoticed by fans of both “South Park” and WWE.

Read More: CM Punk Net Worth 2023: What Is The WWE Superstar Worth?

Logan Paul’s Reaction

Logan Paul himself acknowledged the spoof, retweeting a clip from the “South Park” special. His reaction, taken in good humor, is a refreshing display of sportsmanship.

Read More: Logan Paul Celebrates “Champ Life” With WWE Belt Thirst Traps

WWE News: The Cultural Impact of the Spoof

This episode underscores “South Park’s” ability to stay relevant by tapping into current pop culture phenomena. By spoofing a well-known WWE star like Logan Paul, the show not only entertains but also comments on the broader landscape of entertainment and sports.

Wrestling in South Park’s Lens

“South Park” has previously featured wrestling-related content, showcasing its creators’ interest in the sport. This episode is a testament to their skill in blending real-life events and personalities into their narrative, providing commentary on the influence of professional wrestling in popular culture.

The Broader Entertainment Context

This spoof highlights the growing crossover between different entertainment domains. Professional wrestlers like Logan Paul have become influential figures in various aspects of pop culture, and “South Park’s” parody is a testament to this phenomenon.

“South Park’s” recent episode featuring a parody of WWE Champion Logan Paul is a brilliant example of how the show remains culturally relevant and influential. By blending humor with current events and personalities, “South Park” continues to be a significant voice in satirical commentary, resonating with audiences across the entertainment spectrum.

The post WWE News: South Park Hilariously Spoof WWE Champion appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

WWE’s Liv Morgan Arrested On Possession Charges

Liv Morgan, a high-profile wrestler in the WWE, has been arrested on a marijuana possession charge in Florida. Morgan was initially pulled over by the Sumter County Sheriff’s Department after being spotted driving haphazardly. After being pulled over, Morgan’s vehicle was searched after a deputy said he smelled marijuana. Deputies confiscated “less than 20 grams” of marijuana along with a vape pen believed to contain cannabis oil. Morgan was later released on a $3000 bond.

Morgan has wrestled for various WWE promotions since 2015. She is a former SmackDown Women’s Champion and two-time Women’s Tag Team champion. She is currently part of the RAW brand after being selected by the promotion in the 2023 WWE Draft. Morgan has also recently broken into acting. She had a small role in the Uma Thurman-Samuel L. Jackson comedy The Kill Room earlier this year. She also appeared in a small role on an episode of Chucky. The promotion is yet to issue a statement about her arrest.

Read More: Rhea Ripley’s Latest Instagram Post Has Fans Begging Her To Step On Them

Hulk Hogan’s Son Arrested In Florida

However, Morgan isn’t the only wrestler, or wrestler-adjacent individual, to feel the wrath of the Florida police this year. In November, Hulk Hogan’s son was arrested for a DUI. Police in Clearwater detained Nick Hogan for driving under the influence and refusing a sobriety test. Tracing the 33-year-old’s movements, his social media activity appears to indicate that he had attended a bikini contest at his father’s restaurant in the hours before the arrest.

However, the location of his arrest is notable. In 2007, a then-17-year-old Nick was involved in a serious car crash in the area. Nick pled no contest to reckless driving involving serious bodily harm and would serve eight months in prison. Furthermore, while Nick was mostly fine, the same couldn’t be said for his passenger. John Graziano, who was a serving US Marine at the time, was left with significant brain trauma. His family sued and later settled out of court with the Hogans.

Read More: Sky Daily Says No One Has Ever “Put Her First” Like Hulk Hogan Does

[via]

The post WWE’s Liv Morgan Arrested On Possession Charges appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

CM Punk Net Worth 2023: What Is The WWE Superstar Worth?

CM Punk has not only left an indelible mark in the ring but has also amassed significant financial success. With an estimated net worth of $12 million, according to Sportskeeda, Punk’s journey showcases his impact and financial accomplishments within the wrestling industry.

Read More: Logan Paul Is A Way Better UFC Fighter Than CM Punk

Early Career And Rise To Prominence

CM Punk
(Photo by Allen Berezovsky/WireImage)

CM Punk was born Phillip Jack Brooks on October 26, 1978, in Chicago, Illinois. His journey in professional wrestling began in the late 1990s. Starting on the independent circuit, Punk honed his skills and gained recognition for his in-ring abilities and outspoken persona. Punk’s breakout success came during his tenure in WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment). His straight-edge lifestyle, coupled with his exceptional mic skills and in-ring talent, propelled him to championship reigns and fan adulation, solidifying his place as a wrestling icon.

Financial Success & Contributions To Wrestling

CM Punk
(Photo by Angela Weiss/Getty Images)

CM Punk’s impact in wrestling extends beyond championships. His ability to connect with audiences, create compelling storylines, and elevate the wrestling product contributed significantly to the industry’s success during his tenure. Moreover, his popularity translated into merchandise sales, appearances, and increased viewership, thereby enhancing his financial standing. Additionally, Punk’s transition to other ventures, including MMA, acting and commentary, further diversified his income streams. Furthermore, it reinforced his financial stability outside the wrestling ring.

Read More: CM Punk Names 4 Wrestlers He’d Come Out Of Retirement For

Influence On Wrestling Culture & Legacy

CM Punk’s influence on wrestling culture is undeniable. His candidness, charisma, and willingness to challenge the status quo resonated with fans and aspiring wrestlers alike. Punk’s legacy as a trailblazer continues to inspire new generations within the wrestling community.

From his early days in wrestling to accumulating a net worth of $12 million, CM Punk’s journey exemplifies dedication, perseverance, and strategic financial planning. His success positions him as a symbol of financial achievement and resilience.

In conclusion, CM Punk’s estimated net worth of $12 million signifies not only his legendary status in professional wrestling but also his financial astuteness and success beyond the squared circle. Punk’s legacy serves as a testament to the financial rewards achievable through talent, dedication, and strategic career moves in the world of professional wrestling.

The post CM Punk Net Worth 2023: What Is The WWE Superstar Worth? appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

WWE Announces Partnership With Big 12, Will Present Belt To Conference Championship MVP

The WWE has announced a new partnership with the NCAA’s Big 12 conference. The deal will see a custom blended logo at AT&T Stadium and an exclusive Big 12 merchandise line. However, the most notable aspect of the partnership will be WWE superstars presenting the MVP of the Big 12 Championship Game next month with a custom WWE belt.

“WWE is a global brand that connects with a wide array of audiences. With this partnership, we will integrate WWE and its brand power into one of the conference’s biggest moments, further strengthening the bridge between sports and entertainment throughout the Big 12,” Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark said in a statement. It’s the latest step in the WWE’s move into college sports following their Next In Line NIL platform. Furthermore, the WWE is finalizing a licensing deal to create a WWE belt for the SEC as well.

Read More: Logan Paul Celebrates “Champ Life” With WWE Belt Thirst Traps

Who Will Compete For Big 12’s First WWE Belt?

The race at the top of the Big 12 has been one of the tightest in college football this season. Without any divisions to separate the teams, the top two finishers after the regular season compete in the championship game. As it stands, with two games left to play, #7 Texas is in sole command of first place at 9-1 (6-1 Big 12), with only a loss to Oklahoma blemishing their record this season. However, after Texas is a four-way tie for second between #23 Oklahoma State, #14 Oklahoma, Iowa State, and #21 Kansas State. All four teams have a 5-2 conference record.

2023 marks the final year for the Big 12 in its current format. In 2024, the conference will lose Texas and Oklahoma to the SEC while gaining Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah from the Pac-12. Another WWE element will also join the Big 12 in 2024. Social media star and women’s basketball player Haley Cavinder recently announced that she will transfer to TCU next season to use her final year of collegiate eligibility. Cavinder, along with her twin sister, were some of the biggest names signed to the WWE”s NIL program.

Read More: Deion Sanders & Colorado Lose Fourth Consecutive Game

[via]

The post WWE Announces Partnership With Big 12, Will Present Belt To Conference Championship MVP appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Logan Paul Celebrates “Champ Life” With WWE Belt Thirst Traps

Logan Paul celebrated his recent WWE title win with an impromptu series of thirst traps. Entitled “Champ Life”, the series of images shows Paul cuddling the belt in bed, smoking a cigar in a cowboy hat with the belt, wearing it at the gym, and using it to remain with Instagram’s ToS while in the shower. Paul was crowned the new WWE US Champion after taking down Rey Mysterio at WWE Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia last weekend. It was an antic-filled match, which saw Paul utilize brass knuckles amongst other tools to take down the Mexican veteran. Paul’s first title comes just over two years after he made his WWE debut. Furthermore, the title comes in just his eighth pro wrestling match.

However, Paul appeared to imply that the title meant a greater focus on the promotion for him. “I think I have to,” Paul said of spending more time on WWE programming. “You’re going to have to watch Raw. You’re going to have to watch SmackDown. I’m going to make some surprise appearances and show these wrestlers who’s the real king.” It’s unclear who his first title defense could come against. That said, everyone from Dominik Mysterio to Bad Bunny has been named as a potential opponent.

Read More: Dillon Danis Appeals Logan Paul Fight Result, WWE Star Responds

Logan Paul’s Energy Drink Sells 1 Billion Units

Meanwhile, PRIME, the energy drink owned by Paul and KSI, has reportedly sold 1 billion units. “We’ve officially sold 1,000,000,000 bottles — a hydration milestone we couldn’t have reached without you. Thank you for making PRIME the fastest growing beverage in history,” the drink’s official account wrote on social media. The milestone was reached in just 22 months, after Paul and KSI launched the brand in January 2022. While popular, it has been panned by many critics for its foul taste. Gordon Ramsay gave the drink a 0/10 rating after it comparing it to “swallowing perfume”.

“What is life” Paul wrote on his own account, seemingly stunned at his own brand’s successful. However, PRIME has become a major part of all of Paul’s endeavors. During one of his WWE events, he participated in a skit that saw KSI dress up like a giant bottle of PRIME. Meanwhile, their recent joint boxing card was officially dubbed “The PRIME Card” by broadcaster DAZN. If Paul or KSI is involved in something, it’s a fair bet that PRIME is involved as well.

Read More: Dillon Danis Claims Nina Agdal Posts Were “Comedy” Promotion Of Logan Paul Fight, Continues To Make Posts About Her

[via]

The post Logan Paul Celebrates “Champ Life” With WWE Belt Thirst Traps appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Logan Paul Claims WWE US Championship

Logan Paul is the new WWE US Champion after taking down Rey Mysterio at WWE Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia. It was an antic-filled match, which saw Paul utilize brass knuckles amongst other tools to take down the Mexican veteran. Paul’s first title comes just over two years after he made his WWE debut. Furthermore, the title comes in just his eighth pro wrestling match.

However, Paul appeared to imply that the title meant a greater focus on the promotion for him. “I think I have to,” Paul said of spending more time on WWE programming. “You’re going to have to watch Raw. You’re going to have to watch SmackDown. I’m going to make some surprise appearances and show these wrestlers who’s the real king.” It’s unclear who his first title defense could come against. That said, everyone from Dominik Mysterio to Bad Bunny has been named as a potential opponent.

Read More: WWE News: Logan Paul Reveals Major Scrapped Plans For WWE SummerSlam 2023

Paul Slams Dillon Danis

Furthermore, Paul took an opportunity to trash talk Dillon Danis in his post-fight interviews. “That was barely a performance. I wouldn’t even call that a fight. Tonight was a fight. Tonight was hard. I’m telling you, bro. I’m winded. I feel like I really earned this. So, I see these comments online. ‘Logan Paul, spoon-fed, silver spoon in his mouth. Everything’s been given to him his whole life. He hasn’t earned it.’ I would do more in 12 hours than most people do in 12 months. My blueprint cannot be duplicated, bro. My pace is unmatched. I’m not playing the same game as the other people. I’ve beaten the matrix and I’m the architect,” Paul said.

Last month, in the days after their controversial boxing match, Danis filed an appeal against the fight result. However, Paul was dismissive of the former MMA fighter. “Embarrassing & desperate. What’s the appeal? He tried to take me down – failed, he tried to choke me out – failed. He didn’t even try to fight back, he just took his ass beating like a bitch. Dude really thinks he can handle everything online. He should just accept the loss like a man & move on with his pathetic life,” Paul wrote on X, formerly Twitter, in response to the news. Furthermore, over half of the DAZN Prime Card matches are currently under investigation for an appeal.

Read More: Logan Paul Slams “True Coward” Dillon Danis After Win, Calls Out Rey Mysterio

[via]

The post Logan Paul Claims WWE US Championship appeared first on HotNewHipHop.