Originally published on May 1, 2024.
This article contains discussions about sexual abuse, which may be triggering for some readers. The following content reflects my personal opinion and should be interpreted as such. Any views expressed here are solely mine and do not represent any official stance. This opinion piece is intended for entertainment and discussion purposes only, and should not be construed as factual information or professional advice. Reader discretion is advised.
This article has been lingering in my drafts for some time because I wanted to ensure that every statement I make is clear and not misinterpreted. This isn’t about comparing which promotion boasts superior wrestlers or which company draws the largest crowds. It’s about a young woman who is currently battling for her life and dignity against a predator, with fans using her alleged sexual abuse as ammunition in an endless game of tribalism between two wrestling companies. This behavior needs to cease.
I’ve noticed that some AEW fans tend to bring up Janel Grant, not out of genuine concern or awareness, but as a means of scoring points in a back-and-forth. Using anyone’s sexual abuse in such a manner is completely unacceptable. It’s widely acknowledged that the allegations against Vince McMahon are deeply disturbing and outright evil. Considering all we’ve seen in his storylines and other allegations, it’s hard to doubt Grant’s story. But what often gets overlooked is how Grant might feel if (or when) she ever comes across these discussions online.
I won’t delve into the details of the lawsuit against McMahon, as they’ve been extensively covered and are easily accessible online. This article isn’t focused on those specifics; it’s about the wrestling fans. Grant was a woman who found fulfillment in a job she loved, especially after the loss of her parents. She was an attractive young woman who unfortunately slipped through the cracks of a multi-billion dollar corporation and found herself in the situation we’re discussing today. It’s not appropriate for wrestling fans to use her experiences as ammunition against a company that has seemingly addressed the issue by removing McMahon and severing ties with him once and for all.
It’s challenging to expect fans to navigate the complexities of defending or supporting AEW when the founder and president of the company, Tony Khan, is making sweeping comparisons like likening WWE to “Harvey Weinstein.”
“We are the most successful sports startup since the AFL, pre-merger. There has not been a challenger brand that has gained as much market share as AEW in many, many, many years. We are like the Pepsi of pro wrestling, and we’re up against a really evil juggernaut. WWE is our competitor, that’s who we’re facing. AEW is like the Pepsi of pro wrestling; WWE is like the Harvey Weinstein of pro wrestling.”
I have no clue who gave Khan the green light to think it was a brilliant idea to compare WWE to “the Harvey Weinstein of pro wrestling.” Especially given Weinstein’s recent rape conviction being overturned in New York, it’s concerning that someone leading a company billed as the “safest wrestling promotion in the world” would make such a comparison. This is the same company where women wrestlers are openly sharing their experiences through TikTok and X/Twitter, shedding light on the challenges they face in this industry. Certainly, the videos are created in jest, but they highlight genuine experiences faced by female wrestlers in a predominantly male industry. Khan should prioritize promoting safety rather than trivializing these issues as cheap shots. It’s counterproductive.
And unsurprisingly, Khan has faced significant backlash for it. It’s worth noting that AEW’s current FTW champion was recently embroiled in allegations of sexual misconduct. Though the truth of these claims remains uncertain, it certainly raises questions about the cleanliness of AEW’s own backyard. Maybe Khan should think twice before taking such fiery shots when his own company’s track record isn’t spotless either.
Throughout wrestling history, we’ve grappled with tough discussions about wrestlers and their actions both inside and outside the ring. From issues like domestic violence, sexual assault, DUI arrests, and drug use, to even cases of murder, these topics have surfaced time and again. However, amidst these discussions, the mental health of the victims often gets sidelined. It’s important to consider their well-being during these challenging moments. It is easy to sling shit onto others until the shit is slung back to you.
I want to emphasize wholeheartedly that tribalism is part and parcel of the sport. Choosing one team (or company) over another is par for the course. It can get ugly at times, but at what cost and for whom? So before you dive into typing away at your keyboard, thinking you’re sticking it to some WWE mark because they support a company you don’t, consider this: bringing up Janel Grant isn’t hurting them or the company; it’s hurting her and other victims who may choose to stay silent.
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse, there is help and support available. You are not alone. Reach out to the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1–800–656-HOPE (4673) or visit their website at www.rainn.org for confidential assistance and resources. It’s important to speak up and seek help.
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