Vince McMahon Settles Hush Money Case With SEC, Civil Sexual Assault Case Continues

According to a report from NBC News, Vince McMahon has agreed to settle a “hush money” case with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Mr. McMahon was accused of committing a securities law violation by making undisclosed “hush money” payments to alleged victims of sexual misconduct. The WWE is a public company—meaning these types of payments must be disclosed. However, the corresponding civil assault lawsuit is still moving forward in court. Here, our Miami sexual assault and battery lawyer discusses this case in more detail.
Vince McMahon Settlement With SEC (Hush Money Case)
In January of 2025, Vince McMahon—the former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE)—settled charges with the SEC for an alleged failure to disclose hush money payments. Mr. McMahon agreed to a $1.7 million settlement, including a $400,000 civil penalty. He also agreed to reimburse the company (The WWE) nearly $1.33 million. These payments related to two undisclosed agreements made in 2019 and 2022 with women who had accused him of sexual misconduct. Notably, the SEC found that these undisclosed payments led to significant misstatements in WWE’s financial reporting for 2018 and 2021. The WWE is a public company.
Vince McMahon and the WWE are Being Sued Civilly for Sexual Assault
Despite the SEC settlement, Vince McMahon and WWE are still embroiled in serious legal challenges. A civil sexual assault claim is still pending against Mr. McMahon, WWE, and another man named John Laurinaitis. The claim was brought by a former WWE employee named Janel Grant. The lawsuit details severe accusations against McMahon, including coercing Ms. Grant into sexual acts. The lawsuit had been temporarily paused due to a federal investigation but resumed after the stay expired. As such, Ms. Grant’s civil lawsuit will now proceed. Currently, Mr. McMahon and the WWE are trying to compel arbitration of the civil sexual assault claim.
A Civil Sexual Assault Lawsuit Can Allow Victims to Hold Powerful Parties Accountable
Sexual assault is a criminal act. The responsible person may be arrested and charged with a serious criminal offense. At the same time, the criminal justice system is not the only legal option available for victims. A civil sexual assault claim may allow victims to hold powerful parties—from the perpetrator to businesses—accountable. Through a successful civil claim, a victim can pursue financial compensation and other remedies. Notably, unlike criminal cases, which require proof beyond a reasonable doubt, civil cases have a lower burden of proof.
Contact Our Miami Sexual Assault Lawyer Today
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, we are committed to fighting for justice for the victims of sexual violence. You may be entitled to financial compensation through a civil claim if you have been a victim. If you have any questions about your case, please do not hesitate to contact us for a free, confidential case review. We advocate for the rights of sexual violence victims throughout South Florida.
Source:
nbcnews.com/business/business-news/vince-mcmahon-sec-settlement-1point7-million-hush-money-agreements-rcna187140