Triple H Says Vince McMahon Thought Iconic WWE Moment Would Not Work
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WWE Chief Content Officer Paul 'Triple H' Levesque recently reflected on his poignant in-ring retirement announcement, revealing that former WWE CEO Vince McMahon initially had reservations about how the segment would be received. Levesque, however, perceived the moment as one of triumph and celebration.
The powerful segment occurred at the start of night two of WrestleMania 38, hosted at AT&T Stadium. It was there that Levesque formally concluded his storied in-ring career, a decision that followed a serious cardiac procedure for a heart issue from which he has since made a full recovery.
Discussing this memorable event on a recent episode of "Stephanie's Places," Levesque shared McMahon's initial perspective. He recounted how McMahon questioned the idea of opening such a grand show with what he perceived as a somber announcement.
Levesque detailed the conversation, stating, "The moment in Dallas (at WrestleMania 38), Vince (McMahon) asked me to go open the show. The idea of going and putting my boots in the ring was not what he had in mind. Like, 'Why do you wanna -- I gotta open the show with a downer,' and I said, 'I don't see it as a downer. I see it as kind of a triumphant moment. I'm back."
More news: WWE News: Steve Austin Reveals Real-Life Vince McMahon Confrontation
In separate news concerning Vince McMahon, developments continue in the sex trafficking lawsuit filed against him, WWE, and former executive John Laurinaitis by ex-WWE employee Janel Grant. An update on May 7th, 2025, indicated that a judge had permitted Grant to proceed with an updated version of her lawsuit against the defendants.
Superstar Triple H and Chairman of World Wrestling Entertainment, Vince McMahon, attend the World Wrestling Entertainment "Denver Debacle" press conference at the Hard Rock Cafe, Times Square on May 21, 2009 in New York City....
Superstar Triple H and Chairman of World Wrestling Entertainment, Vince McMahon, attend the World Wrestling Entertainment "Denver Debacle" press conference at the Hard Rock Cafe, Times Square on May 21, 2009 in New York City. MoreFurthermore, a significant decision was made in the legal proceedings to temporarily halt the discovery process in the case. This pause means that the phase where both sides gather evidence and information from each other is currently on hold, pending further legal deliberations or rulings.
The lawsuit has scrutinized McMahon and WWE, with allegations detailing serious misconduct. The allowance of the amended complaint and the stay on discovery represent the latest procedural steps in what is expected to be a complex and closely watched legal battle.
Triple H has been praised by WWE fans since taking over creative and breathing new life into the product.
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