Warning: Some may find the details in this story disturbing.
(NewsNation) — A woman alleging years of sexual abuse by Vince McMahon, the former CEO of WWE, also claims she was coerced into writing a loving letter to him, The New York Post reported.
Janel Grant filed a lawsuit against McMahon just before his abrupt departure as executive chairman of WWE-parent TKO Group Holdings. The suit, filed in Connecticut federal court in January, accuses McMahon of sexually abusing her, including an incident in May 2020 where he allegedly defecated on her head during an encounter between them and another person.
However, a letter dated Dec. 24, 2021, obtained by The Post, paints a different picture. In the letter, Grant expresses deep affection for McMahon, calling him her “best friend, my love and my everything” after almost three years together.
Grant’s attorney, Ann Callis told The Post that McMahon coerced Grant into writing the letter. Callis condemns McMahon’s attempt to use the letter as defense, calling it a form of psychological torture typical of abusive behavior.
In response, McMahon’s attorney, Jessica Taub Rosenberg, denies coercion, stating that Grant wrote the letter voluntarily. Rosenberg highlights that the letter underwent multiple drafts, suggesting genuine sentiment.
Grant’s lawsuit also alleges McMahon trafficked her to other WWE executives and wrestlers, causing physical injuries with sex toys named after male WWE stars. McMahon has denied these allegations, claiming their relationship was consensual.
The saga further unfolds with allegations involving John Laurinaitis, WWE’s former head of talent relations, accused alongside McMahon of sexually abusing Grant. Laurinaitis has also claimed victimhood, asserting he’s been victimized by McMahon.
WWE President Nick Khan and COO Brad Blum have also been identified as key figures in Grant’s lawsuit, Front Office Sports reports. Khan and Blum’s names were not previously reported in the lawsuit, and they are not personally accused of sexual misconduct.
Federal authorities are currently investigating sexual assault and sexual trafficking allegations against McMahon.
Grant is seeking unspecified monetary damages and to have the court void a $3 million nondisclosure agreement, of which she alleges she received only $1 million.
McMahon was the leader and most recognizable face at WWE for decades. When he purchased what was then the World Wrestling Federation from his father in 1982, wrestling matches took place at small venues and appeared on local cable channels.
WWE matches are now held in professional sports stadiums, and the organization has a sizable overseas following.
NewsNation’s Liz Jassin and The Associated Press contributed to this report.