WWE legend Brock Lesnar ‘leaves SmackDown taping in chaos’ by storming out after Vince McMahon retirement-Alistair McGeorge-Entertainment – Metro

Brock Lesnar reportedly left the building (Picture: WWE)

Brock Lesnar has reportedly stormed out of tonight’s WWE SmackDown show after the shocking news Vince McMahon has retired.

The former world champion is scheduled to face Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns for the title at SummerSlam, but he is said to have reacted angrily to the news his longtime boss is leaving the company.

According to multiple reports, Lesnar walked out of tonight’s show after the 76-year-old businessman confirmed his retirement after decades in charge of the wrestling giant.

Brock is no longer being advertised for the event, and it’s unclear how the company will change gears for not only tonight but also SummerSlam itself on July 30.

In a statement issued hours before SmackDown was due to go on air, McMahon said: ‘As I approach 77 years old, I feel it’s time for me to retire as Chairman and CEO of WWE. Throughout the years, it’s been a privilege to help WWE bring you joy, inspire you, thrill you, surprise you, and always entertain you.

‘I would like to thank my family for mightily contributing to our success, and I would also like to thank all of our past and present Superstars and employees for their dedication and passion for our brand.

‘Most importantly, I would like to thank our fans for allowing us into your homes every week and being your choice of entertainment.

‘I hold the deepest appreciation and admiration for our generations of fans all over the world who have liked, currently like, and sometimes even love our form of Sports Entertainment.’

Vince McMahon has retired (Picture: WWE)

McMahon said he is ‘extremely confident’ that WWE’s success will continue, saying he is leaving the company ‘in capable hands’, with Chairwoman and Co-CEO Stephanie McMahon and Co-CEO Nick Khan at the helm.

As the majority shareholder, he vows to continue to support WWE ‘in any way I can.’

‘My personal thanks to our community and business partners, shareholders, and Board of Directors for their guidance and support through the years. Then. Now. Forever. Together’, he signed off.

McMahon acquired the company in 1982 when he bought it from his father, Vincent J. McMahon.

News of his retirement follows reports that he agreed to pay over $12million (£9.98m) over the past 16 years to keep quiet about allegations of sexual misconduct and infidelity involving four women.

The executive has been embroiled in an investigation by the board of directors as they look into the claims.

WWE SmackDown airs Friday nights at 1am on BT Sport 1.

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