Vince McMahon’s Heartbreaking WWE Exit Wins Big at ES Awards 2022

Less than 36 hours from now, we will bid goodbye to this year while welcoming 2023. Like most years, 2022 was filled with several iconic sporting moments. From fairytale finishes to a controversy-laced retirement, the year witnessed it all.

EssentiallySports has selected 22 such moments for bestowing its ES Awards 2022. The awardees are individuals from the sporting world, teams, and even internet personalities.

After his maiden World Cup win, Argentine soccer legend Lionel Messi finds himself on the list. His arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who had a forgettable outing at the recently concluded FIFA World Cup, features for a very different reason.

Then there’s Serena Williams, Antonio Brown, Chris Bumstead, Vince McMahon, and Bubba Wallace for being part of iconic moments.

The list includes NBA legend Michael Jordan, soccer star David Beckham, The GOAT Tom Brady, teenage tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz, internet personalities Salt Bae and the Paul Brothers (Jake and Logan), and WNBA star Brittney Griner among others.

ES is also honoring swimmer Lia Thomas, racehorse Rich Strike, NASCAR driver Ross Chastain, professional bodybuilder Hadi Choopan, NBA legend LeBron James, UFC’s Leon Edwards, and NFL team Minnesota Vikings for scripting noteworthy moments. Golfing league LIV Golf has been awarded the ‘Biggest Disruptive Sporting Moment of the Year’.

Vince McMahon’s WWE retirement marks the end of an era

Vincent Kennedy McMahon, the undisputed big daddy of pro wrestling, took control of the WWE in 1982. In his 40-year reign, the promotion has outlived its competitors while popularizing pro wrestling across the globe. According to reports, the WWE is worth $5.14 billion as of December 28, 2022.

The Boss, however, had to retire on June 17, 2022, after the WWE’s Board of Directors started investigations on past transgressions. According to The Wall Street Journal, McMahon had paid over $12 million in ‘hush money’ to suppress claims of sexual misconduct. The said amount was paid during a period of 16 years.

McMahon’s departure marked the end of an iconic, albeit tainted, career. Not only did he help pro wrestlers become mainstream, but he also provided a platform for some superstars to make a successful career transition. Since his retirement, his daughter Stephanie McMahon and WWE President Nick Khan have taken over as co-CEOs. And his son-in-law Triple H serves as the chief content officer.

And for his contribution to pro wrestling, Vince McMahon is the recipient of ‘End of an Era Moment of the year’ award as ES Awards 2022.