One of the characteristics of the final years of Vince McMahon’s tenure as WWE Chairman was mass talent cuts.
Throughout 2020 and 2021 WWE released a huge number of Superstars both from the main roster and NXT. Many of these releases came despite stars being heavily featured on television and having months and years left on their contracts.
Vince McMahon Was Against “No Cut” Clauses
The mass releases sparked speculation that some WWE stars and any new signees could look to insert no-cut clauses into their contracts. This would mean, at least in theory, that they couldn’t be released out of the blue like so many before them. However, it appears there was one significant stumbling block, Vince McMahon.
A new report from Fightful Select has noted that Vince McMahon was against the clauses being utilised, despite many in the “front office” being in favour. Interestingly, WWE President Nick Khan was said to be open to the idea. The report adds that McMahon’s stance didn’t prevent the company from signing any big name free agents, but some did enquire about them.
In closing, the report states that many are impressed with Nick Khan and his style of management, specifically his willingness to think outside the box.
Since Vince McMahon left WWE, mass waves of releases appear to be a thing of the past, although there have been releases across NXT and with the closure of NXT UK.
Vince McMahon retired from his role with WWE in July 2022 following a string of sexual misconduct claims were made against him, while it is alleged that he paid more than $12 million in secret settlements to supress the allegations.
On December 13th it was reported that Vince McMahon was looking to return to WWE, this is despite facing fresh allegations of sexual assault.