John Laurinaitis Put On Leave By WWE

WWE’s Head of Talent Relations John Laurinaitis has been put on leave by WWE while an investigation into misconduct allegations is carried out.

The Wall Street Journal first broke the news that Vince McMahon was under investigation by WWE’s Board of Directors over a $3 million ‘hush money’ payment related to an alleged affair with a former company employee.

The investigation uncovered previous payments and non-disclosure agreements linked to previous female WWE employees with misconduct allegations levelled at both McMahon and Head of Talent Relations, John Laurinaitis.

It was announced by WWE on the 17th of June that Vince McMahon was stepping back as company Chairman and CEO while the investigation is carried out. Stephanie McMahon was named as her father’s interim replacement in both roles, although Vince McMahon will still maintain control over the company’s creative direction.

Now Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful has reported that John Laurinaitis has been placed on administrative leave by the company while the investigation is carried out as well. Long-time Vince McMahon lieutenant, Bruce Prichard, has been named as the interim Head of Talent Relations in Laurinaitis’ absence:

“Fightful can confirm that talent were informed that Bruce Prichard is now interim Head of Talent Relations. John Laurinaitis was placed on administrative leave.”

Vince McMahon appeared in a defiant appearance on SmackDown on the 17th of June and he has since made a surprise appearance on Raw to hype a huge return on the 27th of June edition of WWE’s flagship show.