In a startling turn of events, a former World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) employee, Janel Grant, has filed a lawsuit accusing ex-chairman Vince McMahon of sex trafficking, sexual assault, and bribery. The lawsuit, filed on Thursday, alleges that McMahon promised career opportunities to Grant while subjecting her to sexual and physical abuse.

Grant claims that the 78-year-old attempted to sexually exploit her to various individuals both inside and outside the company. The lawsuit also implicates the wrestling company itself and former head of talent relations, John Laurinaitis, citing negligence, civil battery, and causing emotional distress.

According to the lawsuit, Grant joined WWE in June 2019 and alleges that McMahon requested sexually explicit photos and videos from her. When she expressed reservations, she was reminded of McMahon’s ‘power and influence,’ creating a hostile work environment.

Explosive details in the filed documents include explicit videos of Grant being shared with a ‘world-famous athlete and former UFC Heavyweight Champion.’ Grant claims she was asked to send a video of herself urinating but managed to avoid a planned sexual encounter.

The lawsuit alleges McMahon’s involvement in degrading acts during sexual encounters, including defecation on Grant and causing physical injuries through the forceful use of sex toys. Grant also claims she was sexually assaulted in June 2021 at WWE headquarters.

Further shocking allegations include McMahon locking Grant in a locker room and forcing himself on her. Grant asserts that she received a $15,000 gift card to Bloomingdale’s after the incident. The lawsuit includes explicit text messages between McMahon and Grant detailing graphic language and explicit sexual desires, as well as discussions about scheduling encounters with other men.

In an attempt to avoid a scandal, Vince McMahon’s wife, Linda McMahon, reportedly learned about the relationship in January 2022 and sought a divorce. McMahon allegedly pressured Grant into signing a nondisclosure agreement (NDA) and promised her $3 million. Grant admits to signing the NDA under duress but claims McMahon failed to fulfil the financial agreement.

Grant’s attorney, Ann Callis, stated, “Today’s complaint seeks to hold accountable two WWE executives who sexually assaulted and trafficked Plaintiff Janel Grant, as well as the organisation that facilitated or turned a blind eye to the abuse and then swept it under the rug.” Grant hopes the lawsuit will prevent further victimisation.

A spokesperson for Vince McMahon vehemently denied the allegations, stating, “This lawsuit is replete with lies, obscene made-up instances that never occurred, and a vindictive distortion of the truth. He will vigorously defend himself.” WWE acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations, stating, “While this matter pre-dates our TKO executive team’s tenure at the company, we take Ms. Grant’s horrific allegations very seriously and are addressing this matter internally.