Stephanie McMahon Pays Tribute To Vince McMahon On SmackDown

Stephanie McMahon opened Friday Night SmackDown to pay tribute to her father Vince McMahon.

Just hours before SmackDown went on the air, Vince McMahon announced that he is retiring from his role as WWE’s CEO and Chairman of the Board.

He will be replaced by Stephanie McMahon and Nick Khan who will serve as co-CEO’s.

Following the shock announcement, it was revealed that Stephanie would be opening SmackDown and addressing the WWE Universe. This led to a tremendous amount of speculation over what her first on-screen appearance as CEO would look like.

As the opening credits finished rolling, Stephanie McMahon stood in the middle of the ring and received a huge ovation. In a short segment, McMahon pointed out that Vince paid tribute the fans and the entire WWE Universe in the statement announcing his departure, so it was time for them to pay tribute to him. At this, she led the crowd in a huge “thank you Vince” chant.

The other huge story heading into the show concerned Brock Lesnar. After the news of Vince McMahon’s departure was made public, it was reported that The Beast walked out of taping. This caused a hasty re-write as the star had been slated to be heavily featured as the build towards his showdown with Roman Reigns at SummerSlam continues.

However, in the dying embers of the show, Lesnar appeared to attack Theory as a stunned crowd roared him into battle.

The show ended with Lesnar standing tall over his battered foe.