History of Vince McMahon in Timeline
Vincent Kennedy McMahon is an American businessman and a prominent figure in the world of professional wrestling. He co-founded WWE, the world's largest wrestling promotion, with his wife, Linda McMahon. McMahon's influence extends beyond wrestling, as he has ventured into promoting other sports like bodybuilding and football with the XFL. His entrepreneurial endeavors also include ownership of Alpha Entertainment.
1914: Birth of McMahon's Father
Vincent James McMahon, Vince McMahon's father, was born in 1914.
1920: Birth of McMahon's Mother
Vince McMahon's mother, Victoria Hanner, was born in 1920.
1943: Birth of McMahon's Half-Brother
Roderick James McMahon III, Vince McMahon's half-brother, was born in 1943.
August 24, 1945: Birth of Vince McMahon
Vince McMahon was born in Pinehurst, North Carolina on August 24, 1945.
1963: First WWF Split from NWA
The WWF first split from the National Wrestling Alliance in 1963, before rejoining in 1971.
1964: McMahon Graduates from Fishburne Military School
Vince McMahon graduated from Fishburne Military School in 1964.
August 26, 1966: Vince McMahon marries Linda Edwards
Vince McMahon and Linda Edwards were married on August 26, 1966, after meeting at church during their teenage years.
1968: McMahon Begins Working for His Father
After a stint as a travelling salesman, Vince McMahon went to work for his father's wrestling company.
1968: McMahon Graduates College
Vince McMahon graduated from East Carolina University with a degree in business in 1968.
1969: McMahon's First Role in WWF
Vince McMahon's first role in the WWF was as a ring announcer on All-Star Wrestling.
1969: McMahon's On-Screen Debut
Vince McMahon made his first on-screen appearance for the company in 1969.
1969: Vince McMahon's Early WWF Appearances
Vince McMahon began appearing as a ring announcer in untelevised WWWF events in 1969, marking his early foray into the family business.
1971: WWF Rejoins NWA
After splitting from the NWA in 1963, the WWF rejoined the organization in 1971.
1971: Vince McMahon's Commentary Debut
In 1971, Vince McMahon made his commentary debut, filling in for Ray Morgan after a pay dispute with his father. This marked a turning point, as it brought him on-screen despite his father's initial reservations about promoters appearing on television.
1971: McMahon Becomes Play-by-Play Commentator
Vince McMahon took over play-by-play commentary duties for the WWF in 1971, a role he would largely maintain for the next three decades.
1976: Ali vs. Inoki
Vince McMahon was a driving force behind the promotion of the Muhammad Ali vs. Antonio Inoki fight in 1976.
1977: McMahon's First On-Screen Physical Altercation
In 1977, Vince McMahon experienced his first on-screen physical altercation when he and Arnold Skaaland were attacked by Captain Lou Albano, adding a layer of drama to his then-babyface persona.
1979: Vince and Linda McMahon Purchase Cape Cod Coliseum
In 1979, Vince and Linda McMahon ventured into the arena business by purchasing the Cape Cod Coliseum and the Cape Cod Buccaneers hockey team. This experience provided valuable insights into arena management and contributed to WWE's later success.
1979: WWWF Renamed to WWF
Vince McMahon pushed for the company's name to be changed from the World Wide Wrestling Federation to the World Wrestling Federation in 1979.
February 21, 1980: Founding of Titan Sports
Titan Sports, the company that would eventually become WWE, was founded by Vince McMahon on February 21, 1980
1982: McMahon Begins Expansion of WWF
When Vince McMahon purchased the WWF in 1982, he envisioned a different future for the company, which at the time was largely regional.
1982: Titan Sports Acquires the CWC
Titan Sports acquired the Capitol Wrestling Corporation from Vince's father and his business partners.
1982: McMahon Purchases WWF from his Father
In 1982, McMahon purchased the then-WWWF from his father and his partners.
1983: WWF Splits from NWA
The WWF split from the National Wrestling Alliance for the second time in 1983.
May 1984: Death of Vince James McMahon
Vince McMahon's father, Vincent James McMahon, passed away in May 1984.
1984: Hulk Hogan Joins WWF
Vince McMahon brought Hulk Hogan into the WWF in 1984, where he would become one of the faces of the 1980s wrestling boom.
1984: McMahon's Commentary Style Shift
Vince McMahon's commentary style shifted in 1984, moving away from a mild-mannered approach.
1984: Death of McMahon's Father
Vincent James McMahon passed away in 1984.
March 31, 1985: First Wrestlemania
Vince McMahon ran the first Wrestlemania on March 31, 1985 at Madison Square Garden.
1985: Andre the Giant Confronts McMahon
During an interview on Tuesday Night Titans in 1985, Andre the Giant, irritated by McMahon's questions, grabbed him by the collar, highlighting the unpredictable nature of live television and the intensity of wrestling storylines.
July 16, 1986: Alleged Sexual Assault of Rita Chatterton
On July 16, 1986, Rita Chatterton, a former referee in the WWF, alleged that Vince McMahon sexually assaulted her in his limousine.
1986: McMahons Begin Supporting Special Olympics
The McMahons became involved with the Special Olympics in 1986, beginning their long-standing support for the organization.
1987: McMahon's "Stand Back" Performance
At the 1987 Slammy Awards, Vince McMahon showcased his musical side by performing the song "Stand Back," a performance that became a recurring gag in later years.
1987: WrestleMania III and the Rise of WWF
In 1987, McMahon's WWF hosted WrestleMania III at the Pontiac Silverdome, drawing a reported 93,173 fans. The event, with its main event of Hulk Hogan vs. André the Giant, was dubbed the "biggest crowd in sports-entertainment history" and solidified WWF's growing influence on pop culture.
1988: Phillips Rehired by WWF After Temporary Dismissal
Despite a previous temporary dismissal in 1988 for sexual misconduct, Mel Phillips was rehired by the WWF that same year.
1988: McMahon Makes Phillips Promise After Rehiring
After rehiring Mel Phillips in 1988, Vince McMahon reportedly made Phillips promise to stop pursuing underage individuals.
May 26, 1990: McMahon's Reaction to Hogan's Attack
Vince McMahon's genuine concern for Hulk Hogan after an attack by Earthquake during a taping of The Brother Love Show on May 26, 1990, showed his investment in the well-being of the wrestlers despite his on-screen persona.
1990: World Bodybuilding Federation Founded
Vince McMahon founded the World Bodybuilding Federation (WBF) in 1990.
September 28, 1991: McMahon Accidentally Hit by Piper
On September 28, 1991, Vince McMahon was unintentionally hit with a folding chair by Roddy Piper during a segment on WWF Superstars of Wrestling, leading to him being taken out of the arena on a stretcher and adding to the unscripted drama of the show.
April 3, 1992: Rita Chatterton Publicly Accuses McMahon of Rape
Rita Chatterton, the first female referee in the WWF, appeared on Geraldo Rivera's show on April 3, 1992, alleging that Vince McMahon raped her in his limousine on July 16, 1986.
1992: Kevin Wacholz's Testimony in McMahon Steroid Trial
During the 1994 trial, former wrestler Kevin Wacholz, known as "Nailz", testified against McMahon, claiming he was ordered to use steroids. However, Wacholz's testimony was questioned due to his admitted hatred for McMahon.
1992: Mel Phillips Fired from WWF Amidst Sexual Misconduct Allegations
Mel Phillips, the WWF's ring announcer, was fired in 1992 following allegations of sexual misconduct involving underage ring boys.
1992: World Bodybuilding Federation Folds
The WBF, founded by Vince McMahon, ceased operations in 1992.
November 8, 1993: McMahon Caught in Savage and Crush Confrontation
On November 8, 1993, Vince McMahon was caught in a physical altercation between Randy Savage and Crush on Monday Night Raw, further blurring the lines between his role as a commentator and the in-ring action.
November 1993: McMahon Indicted in Steroid Controversy
Vince McMahon was indicted in federal court in November 1993 due to a steroid scandal that engulfed the World Wrestling Federation (WWF). As a result, he temporarily relinquished control of the WWF to his wife, Linda.
1993: Feud with Jerry Lawler and Early Villainous Role
In 1993, Vince McMahon was part of a feud with Jerry Lawler during a cross-promotion between the WWF and the USWA. While not explicitly acknowledged as the WWF owner, McMahon's actions, including sending WWF wrestlers to dethrone Lawler, marked an early instance of his villainous persona and physical involvement in a storyline.
1993: WWF's New Generation Era Begins
The year 1993 marked the start of the New Generation Era for WWF, a period of fluctuating success and new ventures that proved challenging for McMahon's leadership.
July 1994: McMahon Acquitted of Steroid Distribution Charges
In July 1994, a jury acquitted Vince McMahon of charges related to steroid distribution. The case stemmed from allegations that he had supplied steroids to WWF wrestlers.
September 23, 1996: Jim Ross Outs McMahon as Owner
On September 23, 1996, during a worked shoot promo on Monday Night Raw, Jim Ross revealed Vince McMahon's true identity as the owner of the WWF, marking the beginning of McMahon's transition from commentator to on-screen personality.
March 17, 1997: Bret Hart's Expletive-Laden Rant
Following Bret Hart's loss to Sycho Sid on March 17, 1997, Hart launched into a profanity-filled tirade against McMahon and WWF management, further blurring the lines between storyline and reality and foreshadowing future confrontations.
September 22, 1997: The Beginning of Austin-McMahon Rivalry
On September 22, 1997, during a confrontation involving Stone Cold Steve Austin and Owen Hart, McMahon was unexpectedly stunned by Austin, marking the start of their iconic rivalry.
November 1997: End of an Era: McMahon Steps Away from Commentary
Vince McMahon's long run as a WWF commentator came to an end in November 1997, marking the end of an era in WWF broadcasting.
November 1997: McMahon's Tenure as Play-by-Play Commentator Ends
Vince McMahon stopped regularly performing commentary duties for the World Wrestling Federation in November 1997.
December 1997: Austin Confronts McMahon and Forfeits Intercontinental Title
In December 1997, after weeks of defiance, Stone Cold Steve Austin relinquished his Intercontinental Championship but not before delivering a Stone Cold Stunner to McMahon, further escalating their ongoing feud.
1997: Mr. McMahon Character Debut
Vince McMahon debuted the character of "Mr. McMahon," which would go on to be one of the most iconic characters in professional wrestling, in 1997.
1997: Montreal Screwjob
The Montreal Screwjob, a controversial event in wrestling history, took place in 1997.
1997: The Montreal Screwjob
In a controversial moment at Survivor Series 1997, McMahon interfered in the championship match between Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels, famously known as the "Montreal Screwjob," solidifying his on-screen persona as a villainous authority figure.
December 1998: McMahon Reignites Feud with Austin
McMahon reignited his feud with Stone Cold Steve Austin in December 1998, putting a $100,000 bounty on his head at the Royal Rumble.
1998: McMahon Manipulates the Deadly Games Tournament
Throughout 1998, McMahon manipulated the "Deadly Games" tournament, favoring Mankind, showcasing his willingness to exploit others for his own benefit.
January 11, 1999: McMahon Participates in Corporate Rumble, Screws Mankind
On January 11, 1999, McMahon participated in the "Corporate Rumble" but was eliminated. He also interfered in the WWF Championship match, reversing a decision to favor The Rock over Mankind.
May 1999: McMahon as the "Higher Power"
In a shocking twist in May 1999, McMahon was unveiled as the mastermind behind the Corporate Ministry, further solidifying his villainous persona and leading to a feud with Stone Cold Steve Austin.
June 24, 1999: McMahon Publicly Feuds with Ted Turner
On June 24, 1999, during an appearance on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien", McMahon publicly called his rival, Ted Turner, a "son-of-a-bitch", showcasing their intense rivalry.
October 1999: WWF Goes Public and the Attitude Era's Peak
In October 1999, McMahon took WWF public, offering company stock. This period coincided with the peak of the Attitude Era, characterized by edgier content like foul language, graphic violence, and controversial matches, leading to high ratings for their show, Monday Night Raw.
1999: McMahon Wins and Vacates WWF Championship, Feuds with Triple H
McMahon briefly held the WWF Championship in 1999 and engaged in a bitter feud with Triple H, culminating in a match at Armageddon.
March 13, 2000: McMahon's Return and Heel Turn
On March 13, 2000, McMahon returned to WWF television, siding with The Rock, but his allegiance shifted at WrestleMania 2000 when he betrayed The Rock to aid Triple H, marking the beginning of the McMahon-Helmsley Era.
2000: XFL Launches
Vince McMahon launched the XFL, a professional American football league, in 2000.
2000: WWF Championship Pursuit and Return
In 2000, Vince McMahon participated in a six-man tag team match for the WWF Championship at King of the Ring, but his team lost. He then took a hiatus from television, returning later in the year to question Mick Foley's actions and express concern for the wrestlers in the Hell in a Cell match. He later fired Foley after a confrontation.
February 2001: XFL's First Season
The XFL, Vince McMahon's football league, commenced its first season in February 2001.
March 2001: WWF Acquires WCW
In March 2001, Vince McMahon made a significant move by purchasing World Championship Wrestling (WCW) from AOL Time Warner. This acquisition brought numerous WCW wrestlers into the WWF, setting the stage for the Invasion storyline.
March 23, 2001: WWF Acquires WCW, Ending the Monday Night War
On March 23, 2001, McMahon's WWF won the Monday Night War, a ratings battle against WCW, by acquiring the struggling WCW from Turner Broadcasting System. This acquisition marked a turning point in wrestling history.
April 1, 2001: ECW Files for Bankruptcy
On April 1, 2001, Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) filed for bankruptcy, leaving WWF as the only major wrestling promotion.
July 9, 2001: The Invasion Storyline and Team WWF vs. The Alliance
On July 9, 2001, the Invasion storyline intensified as former WCW and ECW wrestlers formed The Alliance against WWF. Vince McMahon led Team WWF, turning face in the process.
November 2001: Ric Flair's Return and Co-Ownership
In November 2001, Ric Flair made a shocking return to WWF after an eight-year hiatus, claiming co-ownership of the company alongside Vince McMahon. This led to a heated rivalry between the two wrestling icons.
2001: WWE Purchases WCW
The WWF purchased their largest competitor at the time, World Championship Wrestling (WCW), in 2001.
2001: WCW's Demise Impacts WWE's Creative Direction
With the demise of WCW in 2001, WWE felt less pressure to compete for viewers with edgy content, leading to a shift towards a more family-friendly product.
2001: First Iteration of XFL
Vince McMahon was part of the ownership group that launched the XFL for the first time in 2001.
2001: McMahon's billionaire status
Vince McMahon reached billionaire status in 2001, solidifying his position as a financial powerhouse in the wrestling industry.
2001: Acquisition of WCW
In 2001, Vince McMahon orchestrated the acquisition of World Championship Wrestling (WCW) from AOL Time Warner, marking a significant moment in wrestling history as WWF's biggest competitor came under his control.
January 2002: Vince McMahon vs. Ric Flair at Royal Rumble
The rivalry between Vince McMahon and Ric Flair culminated in a Street Fight at Royal Rumble in January 2002, which Flair won. As co-owners, their feud continued with McMahon leading SmackDown! and Flair leading Raw.
May 5, 2002: WWF Changes Name to WWE
On May 5, 2002, World Wrestling Federation Entertainment, Inc. announced a name change to World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) after a lawsuit from the World Wildlife Fund over the "WWF" trademark. The change, effective May 6, also signified a shift towards emphasizing entertainment.
June 24, 2002: WWE Enters the Ruthless Aggression Era
On June 24, 2002, McMahon officially announced the Ruthless Aggression Era, maintaining some elements of the Attitude Era, such as violence and adult themes, but with a renewed emphasis on wrestling.
2002: McMahon drops off the billionaire list
Vince McMahon's time as a billionaire was relatively short-lived, as he reportedly fell off the list between 2002 and 2013.
January 28, 2003: WWF Acquires ECW Assets
On January 28, 2003, WWF further solidified its dominance by acquiring the assets of the bankrupt Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW).
February 13, 2003: Hulk Hogan's Return and Feud with Vince McMahon
Vince McMahon's attempt to sabotage Hulk Hogan's return on February 13, 2003, backfired when Hogan knocked him out. This marked the beginning of their feud, leading to a match at WrestleMania XIX.
2003: WWE Purchases ECW Assets
WWE purchased the assets of the defunct Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) in 2003.
December 26, 2005: Vince McMahon's Confrontation with Shawn Michaels
On December 26, 2005, while reviewing Bret Hart's DVD, Vince McMahon's comments about the Montreal Screwjob were interrupted by Shawn Michaels. This interaction hinted at a potential rivalry between McMahon and Michaels.
2005: Vince McMahon Feuds with Eric Bischoff
In late 2005, Vince McMahon turned face again and engaged in a feud with Eric Bischoff, criticizing his performance as Raw General Manager. This led to "The Trial of Eric Bischoff," where Bischoff was ultimately fired.
February 1, 2006: Sexual Harassment Allegation Against McMahon in Florida
On February 1, 2006, Vince McMahon was accused of sexual harassment by a worker at a tanning bar in Boca Raton, Florida. The accusations included showing nude photos, groping, and attempting to kiss the worker. While initially discredited due to McMahon's attendance at the Royal Rumble event in Miami, it was later clarified that the alleged incident occurred the day before the event. No charges were filed against McMahon.
2006: Vince and Shane McMahon vs. D-Generation X
Throughout 2006, Vince and Shane McMahon engaged in a feud with D-Generation X (Triple H and Shawn Michaels), culminating in several matches, including a tag team match at SummerSlam and a Hell in a Cell match at Unforgiven.
2006: McMahons Fund Tennis Facility
Vince and Linda McMahon donated $2.5 million in 2006 for the construction of a tennis facility in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania.
2006: "Stand Back" Featured on McMahon DVD
Vince McMahon's 1987 "Stand Back" performance was featured on his 2006 DVD, showcasing its lasting impact as a memorable moment in his career.
2006: McMahon's wealth and assets
By 2006, Vince McMahon had amassed a significant fortune, owning properties such as a Manhattan penthouse, a Greenwich mansion, a vacation home, and a yacht named "Sexy Bitch."
2006: Vince McMahon Feuds with Shawn Michaels
Throughout 2006, Vince McMahon and Shawn Michaels engaged in a heated rivalry, marked by interference in matches, a Street Fight at Saturday Night's Main Event XXXII, and a No Holds Barred match at WrestleMania 22.
2006: Massaro Alleges Sexual Assault During WWE Tour
In 2006, Ashley Massaro alleged that she was sexually assaulted by a man impersonating a doctor during a WWE tour in Kuwait, a claim WWE officials initially denied knowledge of.
2006: Eric Bischoff Returns and Criticizes Vince McMahon
Almost a year later, in 2006, Eric Bischoff resurfaced on Raw to promote his book. He took the opportunity to criticize Vince McMahon's management and legacy, reigniting their feud.
2006: Beginning of alleged sexual misconduct settlements
Allegations of sexual misconduct against Vince McMahon surfaced, dating back to 2006, leading to a series of settlements and investigations.
January 2007: The "Battle of the Billionaires"
In January 2007, Vince McMahon initiated a highly publicized feud with Donald Trump, which led to the "Battle of the Billionaires" at WrestleMania 23. McMahon's representative, Umaga, lost the Hair vs. Hair match, resulting in McMahon getting his head shaved bald.
June 11, 2007: Vince McMahon "Presumed Dead"
On June 11, 2007, in a shocking turn of events, Vince McMahon's limousine exploded on WWE Raw. While this was a storyline, WWE initially reported it as real, leaving fans believing McMahon was "presumed dead."
February 2008: Hornswoggle Revealed as Finlay's Son
In February 2008, after a storyline where Hornswoggle was presented as Vince McMahon's illegitimate son, it was revealed that he was actually the son of Finlay. This revelation was part of a larger storyline involving the McMahon family.
July 2008: WWE Transitions to TV-PG Rating
In July 2008, all WWE programs shifted to a TV-PG rating, aiming for a more family-friendly image. McMahon attributed the previous Attitude Era's edginess to competition from WCW and emphasized a focus on "refined and compelling storytelling" in this new era.
2008: McMahons Donate to Educational Institutions
In 2008, Vince and Linda McMahon made significant donations to institutions like Fishburne Military School, Sacred Heart University, and East Carolina University.
January 5, 2009: Vince McMahon Returns to WWE
Vince McMahon returned to WWE programming on January 5, 2009, as a face, supporting his daughter Stephanie's decision to fire Chris Jericho (who was later rehired).
January 4, 2010: Vince McMahon Kicks Bret Hart
On January 4, 2010, Vince McMahon returned to his villainous persona. He seemingly forgave Bret Hart for the Montreal Screwjob, only to kick him in the groin, solidifying his heel persona.
2010: Shane McMahon leaves WWE
Shane McMahon, son of Vince and Linda, departed from WWE in 2010.
April 7, 2011: WWE Shortens Name, Focuses on Global Entertainment Expansion
On April 7, 2011, the company shortened its name from World Wrestling Entertainment to just WWE, signifying a strategic move towards broader entertainment ventures, including television, live events, and film production, alongside wrestling.
June 27, 2011: CM Punk's Pipebomb and Vince McMahon's Removal
On June 27, 2011, CM Punk delivered a scathing promo (known as the "Pipebomb") criticizing WWE and Vince McMahon. This led to Punk winning the WWE Championship and McMahon being removed from his position by the board of directors.
2011: Alleged Sexual Assault by McMahon in California
In 2011, Vince McMahon allegedly sexually assaulted a tanning spa worker in California, leading to a lawsuit filed against him in December 2022.
June 11, 2012: Vince McMahon Fires John Laurinaitis
On June 11, 2012, after a match between John Cena and Big Show, Vince McMahon fired then-General Manager John Laurinaitis.
2012: WWE Network Launch Initially Planned
WWE initially planned to launch the WWE Network in 2012, marking a shift towards digital content distribution. However, the launch was delayed to 2014.
June 2013: McMahon Family Dispute
In June 2013, the McMahon family, including Vince, became embroiled in a dispute regarding the direction of WWE, particularly the handling of wrestlers like Daniel Bryan and general managers such as Brad Maddox and Vickie Guerrero.
2013: Brock Lesnar Attacks Vince McMahon
In 2013, during a storyline involving CM Punk and The Rock, Vince McMahon was attacked by Brock Lesnar, leading to a storyline injury where McMahon suffered a broken pelvis.
2013: McMahon remains off the billionaire list
Vince McMahon's net worth fluctuated over the years, and he remained off the billionaire list until 2014.
February 2014: WWE Network Launches
In February 2014, Vince McMahon played a key role in launching the WWE Network, an over-the-top streaming service for WWE content.
May 16, 2014: McMahon's net worth drops to $750 million
On May 16, 2014, Vince McMahon experienced a significant decrease in his net worth, dropping to an estimated $750 million due to a decline in WWE stock value.
November 3, 2014: Return and Stipulation for The Authority
Vince McMahon made a return to WWE programming on November 3, 2014, setting a significant stipulation: if Team Cena triumphed over Team Authority at the Survivor Series event, The Authority would be stripped of their power.
2014: WWE Network Launch
In 2014, Vince McMahon launched the WWE Network, a streaming service dedicated to professional wrestling.
2014: The McMahons' political donations
Vince and Linda McMahon made significant contributions to Republican Party causes in 2014, donating $1 million to various candidates and organizations.
2014: Stepping Aside from On-Screen Authority
Vince McMahon, after initially celebrating Randy Orton's victory alongside Triple H and Stephanie McMahon, decided to step back from his on-screen authority role in 2014. His goal was to observe and assess Triple H and Stephanie's leadership within the company.
2014: WWE Network Launch Delayed
The launch of the WWE Network, originally planned for 2012, was delayed until 2014.
December 14, 2015: Alignment with The Authority and Confrontation with Roman Reigns
On December 14, 2015, Vince McMahon returned to WWE and aligned himself with The Authority. He confronted Roman Reigns regarding Reigns' attack on Triple H at the TLC pay-per-view.
2015: McMahon returns to the billionaire list
Vince McMahon rejoined the ranks of billionaires in 2015, with an estimated net worth of $1.2 billion.
January 4, 2016: Special Guest Referee and Royal Rumble Announcement
Vince McMahon inserted himself as the special guest referee in a match between Roman Reigns and Sheamus on January 4, 2016. This match was for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Despite McMahon's interference in favor of Sheamus, Reigns was victorious.
2016: Shane McMahon returns to WWE
After a six-year absence, Shane McMahon returned to WWE in 2016.
April 3, 2017: Appointment of Kurt Angle and Superstar Shake-up
Vince McMahon returned on April 3, 2017, to announce Kurt Angle as the new General Manager of Raw. He also revealed the upcoming Superstar Shake-up, a roster draft between Raw and SmackDown.
2017: Alpha Entertainment Established
Vince McMahon created Alpha Entertainment, an entity separate from WWE, in 2017.
January 22, 2018: Return, Heel Turn, and Confrontation with Stone Cold
On the January 22, 2018, episode of Raw 25 Years, Vince McMahon addressed the WWE Universe. However, he turned heel by criticizing the audience, calling them "cheap." He was later confronted and received a Stone Cold Stunner from Stone Cold Steve Austin.
January 25, 2018: XFL Resurrection Announced
Vince McMahon announced the revival of the XFL on January 25, 2018.
December 17, 2018: Return with Family and Promise to Shake Things Up
Vince McMahon returned to WWE television on December 17, 2018, alongside Shane McMahon, Stephanie McMahon, and Triple H. Together, they pledged to improve WWE's performance and announced their collective management of both Raw and SmackDown.
2018: McMahon's net worth reaches $3.6 billion
Vince McMahon's net worth reached a peak of $3.6 billion in 2018, highlighting his continued success in the business world.
May 15, 2019: Ashley Massaro's Death and Sexual Assault Allegations
Former WWE wrestler Ashley Massaro, before her passing on May 15, 2019, alleged she was sexually assaulted on a 2006 WWE tour in Kuwait and that WWE officials discouraged her from reporting it.
June 2019: NCIS Investigation into Massaro's Allegations Begins
The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) launched an investigation into Ashley Massaro's sexual assault allegations in June 2019.
July 25, 2019: WWE Announces Edgier Content Direction
In response to the emergence of All Elite Wrestling (AEW) as a competitor, McMahon announced a plan to make WWE's content "a bit edgier" while remaining within the PG rating during a conference call on July 25, 2019.
October 2, 2019: Wednesday Night Wars Begin
On October 2, 2019, the "Wednesday Night Wars" commenced as WWE NXT and AEW Dynamite went head-to-head in a battle for viewership.
2019: Janel Grant starts working at WWE
Janel Grant's employment at WWE global headquarters began in 2019, marking the start of her interactions with Vince McMahon, which would later lead to legal action.
2019: Involvement in Daniel Bryan and Kofi Kingston Feud
In 2019, Vince McMahon involved himself in the storyline between Daniel Bryan and Kofi Kingston, creating obstacles for Kingston in his pursuit of a WWE Championship opportunity at WrestleMania.
2019: Jon Moxley Leaves WWE Citing McMahon's Creative Process
In 2019, wrestler Jon Moxley, formerly known as Dean Ambrose in WWE, left the company for rival AEW, publicly criticizing WWE's creative process and specifically blaming Vince McMahon for it.
January 2020: Conclusion of NCIS Investigation
The NCIS investigation into Ashley Massaro's sexual assault allegations concluded in January 2020, though no further details about the investigation were released.
April 13, 2020: XFL Files for Bankruptcy
The XFL, after its revival, faced financial challenges and filed for bankruptcy on April 13, 2020.
April 24, 2020: Appearance on SmackDown for Triple H Anniversary
Vince McMahon made an appearance on the April 24, 2020, episode of Friday Night SmackDown to celebrate Triple H's 25th anniversary in WWE.
September 2020: Bischoff Reveals McMahon's Tactics During Monday Night War
In September 2020, Eric Bischoff revealed McMahon's behind-the-scenes tactics during the Monday Night War. He described how McMahon would send letters criticizing WCW's content, particularly its violence, to Ted Turner and shareholders in an attempt to create tension.
October 29, 2020: Report: McMahon Aware of Allegations Against Phillips
On October 29, 2020, Business Insider reported that Vince McMahon and his wife Linda were aware of sexual misconduct allegations against Mel Phillips but did not take significant action. McMahon, under oath, admitted knowing about Phillips's "peculiar interest in children" but claimed the accusations did not involve conventional forms of sexual abuse.
2020: Alleged sexual assault and trafficking of Janel Grant begins
Janel Grant alleged that Vince McMahon and others subjected her to sexual assault and trafficking from 2020 to 2021.
2020: Second Iteration of XFL
The XFL was relaunched in 2020, with Vince McMahon once again part of the ownership group.
February 2021: Death of Tom Cole
Tom Cole, one of the individuals who had accused Mel Phillips of sexual misconduct, passed away in February 2021.
April 7, 2021: AEW Victorious in Wednesday Night Wars
The "Wednesday Night Wars" concluded on April 7, 2021, with AEW Dynamite emerging as the victor, prompting WWE to move NXT to Tuesday nights.
April 10, 2021: W WrestleMania 37 Appearance
On April 10, 2021, Vince McMahon appeared on the first night of WrestleMania 37, held at the Raymond James Stadium. His appearance marked the return of live audiences to WWE events after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
July 6, 2021: Television Series Announced on McMahon Steroid Trial
On July 6, 2021, a new scripted television series titled "The United States of America vs. Vince McMahon" was announced, focusing on the 1994 steroid trial.
July 29, 2021: McMahon Downplays AEW Competition
Despite the growing presence of AEW, McMahon publicly downplayed their competitive threat during a conference call on July 29, 2021, expressing doubts about their investment in talent.
September 14, 2021: WWE NXT Revamped as "NXT 2.0"
Following AEW's victory in the Wednesday Night Wars, WWE implemented significant changes to NXT, leading to the launch of "NXT 2.0" on September 14, 2021.
November 22, 2021: Cleopatra's Egg Theft Investigation and Austin Theory's Rise
On November 22, 2021, Vince McMahon was involved in a storyline where he investigated the theft of Cleopatra's Egg, a gift from The Rock. Austin Theory revealed he stole it, earning McMahon's favor and a championship match. McMahon mentored Theory in the following months.
2021: Death of McMahon's Half Brother
Roderick James McMahon III passed away in 2021.
2021: McMahon Reflects on Competition with Ted Turner
In 2021, reflecting on the past, McMahon described the period of intense competition with Ted Turner as a "situation where 'rising tides'" because Turner was leveraging Time Warner's resources against WWF.
2021: Alleged sexual assault and trafficking of Janel Grant ends
Janel Grant's allegations against Vince McMahon and others detail a period of alleged sexual assault and trafficking that continued until 2021.
April 2022: Hush-money settlement investigation begins
In April 2022, the WWE board launched an investigation into a $3 million hush-money settlement that Vince McMahon had paid regarding an alleged affair with a former employee.
June 2022: McMahon Steps Down as CEO
Vince McMahon stepped down as CEO of WWE in June 2022, amid allegations of misconduct.
June 2022: McMahon steps down as CEO and chairman
In June 2022, Vince McMahon stepped down from his positions as CEO and chairman of WWE while still overseeing content development.
June 17, 2022: McMahon Steps Down Amid Internal Investigation
McMahon voluntarily stepped down from his positions as chairman and CEO of WWE on June 17, 2022, due to an ongoing internal investigation. His daughter, Stephanie McMahon, took on the roles of interim CEO and chairwoman.
June 27, 2022: Introduction of John Cena and Final WWE Appearance
Vince McMahon made his final appearance on WWE television on June 27, 2022, when he introduced John Cena upon Cena's return to WWE programming.
July 22, 2022: Vince McMahon retires from WWE
Vince McMahon announced his retirement from WWE on July 22, 2022, amidst ongoing investigations into sexual misconduct allegations.
October 2022: WWE discloses $19.6 million in unrecorded payments
By October 2022, WWE disclosed $19.6 million in previously unrecorded payments made by Vince McMahon to settle sexual misconduct claims from 2006 to 2022.
December 2022: Lawsuit Filed Against McMahon for Alleged Sexual Assault in California
In December 2022, a tanning spa worker filed a lawsuit against Vince McMahon, alleging that he sexually assaulted her in California back in 2011.
December 2022: McMahon Settles Sexual Abuse Lawsuit with Chatterton
Vince McMahon settled a sexual abuse lawsuit filed by Rita Chatterton in December 2022 for a multimillion-dollar sum, though he maintains his innocence, claiming he settled to avoid further legal costs.
2022: McMahon allegedly pays Grant $1 million of a $3 million settlement
Vince McMahon allegedly agreed to pay Janel Grant $3 million in 2022 in exchange for an NDA, but stopped payments after $1 million when sexual misconduct allegations became public.
2022: Vince and Linda McMahon separate
Vince and Linda McMahon separated at some point before 2022, although they did not officially divorce.
2022: Death of McMahon's Mother
Victoria Hanner passed away in 2022.
2022: Corroboration of Chatterton's Allegations
In 2022, former wrestler Leonard Inzitari corroborated Rita Chatterton's allegations of sexual assault against Vince McMahon during an interview.
2022: McMahon's Leadership and WWE's Declining Popularity
By 2022, industry observers like Bryan Alvarez pointed to a decline in professional wrestling's popularity, attributing it to dwindling viewership since McMahon's acquisition of WCW. McMahon also faced criticism for allegedly minimizing tag team wrestling and his handling of steroid controversies within WWE.
January 5, 2023: Vince McMahon Announces WWE Return
On January 5, 2023, news broke that Vince McMahon was planning to return to WWE as executive chairman in advance of upcoming media rights negotiations.
January 2023: McMahon Returns, WWE Merges with UFC
Vince McMahon returned to WWE and oversaw its merger with Endeavor Group Holdings, the parent company of the UFC, in January 2023.
October 15, 2023: Vince McMahon Removed from WWE Creative Power
On October 15, 2023, Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel removed Vince McMahon from WWE's creative control, handing the responsibility to Triple H.
2023: Stephanie McMahon resigns from WWE
Stephanie McMahon, daughter of Vince and Linda, resigned from her backstage and onscreen roles at WWE in 2023.
January 2024: McMahon resigns from TKO
Following new allegations of sexual assault, Vince McMahon resigned from WWE parent company TKO in January 2024.
January 2024: Janel Grant files lawsuit against McMahon
Former WWE employee Janel Grant filed a lawsuit in January 2024, alleging Vince McMahon had coerced her into a sexual relationship and, along with others, sexually trafficked and assaulted her.
January 2024: McMahon Resigns from TKO
Vince McMahon resigned from TKO Group Holdings, the company formed from the merger of WWE and UFC, in January 2024 after further allegations of misconduct.
January 26, 2024: Vince McMahon Resigns from TKO
On January 26, 2024, following allegations of sexual assault, Vince McMahon resigned from TKO's board, stating his decision was out of respect for the WWE Universe, TKO, shareholders, and business partners.
February 1, 2024: Laurinaitis accuses McMahon of sexual misconduct
John Laurinaitis, a co-defendant in the Janel Grant lawsuit, accused Vince McMahon of sexual misconduct on February 1, 2024, alleging McMahon made "dictatorial sexual demands."
February 2, 2024: Federal authorities launch investigation into McMahon
On February 2, 2024, federal authorities in New York initiated an investigation into sexual assault and sex trafficking allegations against Vince McMahon, involving search warrants and subpoenas.
February 2024: Laurinaitis's Attorney Acknowledges Massaro Allegations
In February 2024, an attorney representing former WWE Head of Talent Relations John Laurinaitis admitted that upper management was aware of Ashley Massaro's sexual assault allegations and claimed they followed proper protocols.
March 2024: Vince McMahon Sells TKO Stock Amidst Allegations
In March 2024, Vince McMahon sold a significant amount of TKO stock following allegations of sexual assault and a previous sale of shares in November.