Latest Update: Deadline Set for WWE, Vince McMahon & John Laurinaitis to Respond to Janel Grant’s Amended Lawsuit
The legal battle involving WWE, Vince McMahon, and John Laurinaitis continues to unfold, as a new deadline has been established for their response to Janel Grant’s amended lawsuit. The case, which alleges misconduct and other serious claims against the defendants, resumed in December 2024 after a six-month pause due to an ongoing federal investigation.
Background of the Case
Janel Grant initially filed a lawsuit against WWE, McMahon, and Laurinaitis in early 2024, accusing them of sexual misconduct and other violations. The case took a turn when a federal investigation led to a temporary six-month stay, preventing any legal actions from proceeding during that time. However, as of December 11, 2024, the stay was lifted, allowing Grant’s legal team to move forward with their case.
Originally, her attorneys aimed to submit an amended complaint by January 15, 2025. However, due to recent developments—including a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Consent Order involving McMahon—Grant’s legal team requested additional time to ensure all relevant information was included in the updated filing. In response, the court granted an extension, setting a final deadline of January 31, 2025, for the submission of the amended complaint.
Defendants Push for Arbitration
In reaction to the lawsuit, McMahon and Laurinaitis, along with WWE, have pushed for arbitration rather than a court trial. They argue that Grant signed a nondisclosure agreement (NDA) in January 2022, which, in their view, should legally require the dispute to be handled privately rather than through the judicial system. Their legal teams have formally refiled motions to compel arbitration, hoping the court will rule in their favor.
If Grant’s legal team fails to meet the new filing deadline, the defendants are expected to renew their arguments for arbitration. The court has indicated that it will review these motions again if necessary, depending on how the case proceeds.
What Comes Next?
With the amended complaint expected to be submitted by the end of January 2025, the focus now shifts to how WWE, McMahon, and Laurinaitis will respond. Legal experts anticipate that the defense will continue arguing for arbitration, but Grant’s legal team is likely to contest this effort, pushing for the case to be heard in court.
As the lawsuit progresses, further developments are expected to shape the outcome. Whether the case proceeds to trial or is forced into arbitration will depend on upcoming legal decisions. For now, all eyes remain on the January 31 deadline and the responses from the defendants once the amended complaint i
s officially filed.
