Janel Grant’s legal team is pushing back against WWE, Vince McMahon, and John Laurinaitis as they attempt to dismiss her amended complaint.
In the latest legal filing, Grant’s attorneys argue that the defendants are trying to suppress key details about her alleged trafficking and abuse, which the amended lawsuit outlines in greater detail.
The updated complaint, filed on January 31, introduces additional allegations, including formally identifying Brock Lesnar in connection with McMahon’s alleged solicitation. WWE and McMahon’s legal team have since objected, claiming Grant’s filing is an attempt to manipulate media coverage, adding new claims that weren’t part of the initial lawsuit, and unfairly harming McMahon’s reputation.
The defendants also argue that references to the SEC investigation into McMahon and the involvement of his longtime doctor, Dr. Carlon Colker, should be removed, stating they are irrelevant to the case. However, Grant’s attorneys disagree, saying this information is crucial in exposing WWE’s internal culture and the lengths McMahon went to in covering up his alleged misconduct.
Grant’s legal team has now filed their latest response this past Monday, stating that her amended complaint was submitted at the appropriate time and that the updates provide necessary context. Her attorney, Ann Callis, argued that the revised filing was meant to describe in greater detail the abuse Grant endured while also informing the court of material developments that occurred while the case was delayed due to a federal investigation into McMahon.
“These are all proper purposes for [Grant] to amend her pleading under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, and the resumption of this case is a proper time to amend,” Callis wrote. “Defendants are not entitled to take a red pencil to the complaint and suppress damaging facts… Defendants’ gripes and grievances are not legally cognizable objections that should prevent the Court from the benefit of an Amended Complaint that clarifies key issues and brings the facts up to date to account for the lengthy stay, which Plaintiff did not initiate.”
Grant’s team also pushed back against WWE’s argument that the delay in filing was improper, pointing out that the case had been paused due to the federal investigation. They also accused WWE of attempting to gain a legal advantage by exploiting the sudden passing of Judge Meyer, who was previously handling the case.
Another key issue raised is that Grant’s legal team is claiming Dr. Carlon Colker is withholding her medical records, which they argue could provide further evidence of McMahon’s involvement. They allege that Colker, who has a long history with McMahon, administered unknown treatments to Grant while being fully aware of her situation.
As the lawsuit moves forward, WWE, McMahon, and Laurinaitis will now have to respond to these latest legal arguments before the court determines whether the case will proceed in public court or be moved to private arbitration.
With more details continuing to emerge, this case is only getting bigger. Should Grant’s lawsuit stay in the public eye, or will WWE find a way to keep it behind closed doors? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.