WWE performers are understood to be unimpressed by Vince McMahon deciding to appear on SmackDown this Friday.
The 76-year-old has stepped down as the company CEO and Chairman and will address the situation on SD. It’s been reported that he will be in character as Mr. McMahon but that hasn’t been confirmed.
According to Fightful Select (H/T 411 Mania), people within the company are upset at the announcement, which is being viewed as a “largely superficial move,” while one talent has referred to it as a “cheap ratings ploy.” The report also claims that people are planning to talk him out of going on camera while others believe he might turn it into “Vince McMahon vs. The World” as he did during the steroid trials.
Meanwhile, Stephanie McMahon will be stepping into her father’s role. There is said to be optimism among talent as she is well-liked and, while there’s apprehension over her taking over temporarily, they’re happy to have her back.
One female told Fightful she is hopeful Stephanie’s return as CEO will see women treated and paid better by WWE.
John Laurinaitis Expected To Leave
Vince will stick around and retains his creative duties and talent are well aware of this, but they are expecting John Laurinaitis, also implicated, to be fired.
Talent was told it will be business as usual following the bombshell report this week.
Meanwhile, Stephanie has sent a message to staff in which she stated she is excited to continue working with WWE president Nick Khan and CFO Frank Riddick.
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