In a shocking revelation, former MMA fighter Chael Sonnen has made explosive claims about ex-WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, alleging that McMahon engaged in sexual relationships with both male and female WWE stars in exchange for on-screen pushes. These allegations, discussed during Sonnen’s appearance on the “FLAGRANT” podcast and “The Jim Rome Show,” have sent ripples through the wrestling community.
Sonnen’s Bold Claims on “FLAGRANT” Podcast
Sonnen did not mince words when he detailed what he describes as an “open secret” within WWE. “I never met Vince, and I know 11 people that he slept with—eight of them women, all consenting adults,” Sonnen stated. “The implication is clear regarding the others being men.”
The former UFC star emphasized that he wasn’t joking when he discussed these matters previously. “When Vince got me-too’d out of the business, I thought it was surprising. But as good as he is, I wouldn’t completely count out a comeback. However, when the men start coming out, it will be a different story,” Sonnen remarked.
Allegations of Career Manipulation
Sonnen alleged that McMahon wielded his power to manipulate the careers of those who did not acquiesce to his advances. He even brought up the name of WWE legend Shawn Michaels. “He would hold their careers over them, just like he would with the women. It was the same thing. You get paid more, you get pushed more. This is not a secret in the industry,” Sonnen claimed.
When probed about whether McMahon and Michaels had a relationship, Sonnen was evasive but suggestive: “Or whatever it is that they [were doing].”
Wider Allegations Involving Other Executives
Sonnen’s allegations extend beyond McMahon, implicating other WWE executives in similar behavior. “There are a lot of homosexuals that Vince came across, but there were also straight guys who just wanted a push in the business, where it turned into prostitution. That was very well known… And not just Vince, Pat Patterson, and some other executives did too,” Sonnen asserted.
Pat Patterson, in particular, has a controversial past, having been accused of sexually harassing underage ring boys, an issue that adds further complexity to the current allegations.
The McMahon Family’s Alleged Knowledge
Sonnen suggested that McMahon’s children, Stephanie and Shane, were aware of these allegations. He also recounted a disturbing anecdote shared by the late Scott Hall. According to Hall, McMahon openly spoke about his first homosexual experience, a story corroborated by WWE Hall of Famer Kevin Nash.
“Vince spoke about this [his homosexual experience] a number of times, and people have always thought that he was joking. He was never trying to joke. He was just telling the story,” Sonnen declared.
Stephen’s Perspective
These revelations, if proven true, paint a dark picture of the inner workings of WWE and its leadership. The allegations made by Sonnen highlight a culture of manipulation and abuse that has reportedly pervaded the organization. For fans and industry insiders alike, these claims call for a closer examination of the practices and ethics within WWE.
As these allegations surface, it remains to be seen how WWE and the McMahon family will respond. The wrestling community and the public at large will undoubtedly demand answers and accountability. This developing story could have significant ramifications for WWE and its legacy.