The newly released Netflix docuseries Mr. McMahon delves into Vince McMahon’s life and career, including some of the most controversial moments in WWE history. Among them is the tragic 2007 double-murder suicide involving WWE star Chris Benoit. The final episode of the six-part series addresses the incident, with McMahon and others sharing their perspectives on the causes behind Benoit’s actions.
McMahon directly responds to claims that steroids may have contributed to Benoit’s behavior. In the series, McMahon states:
“Chris Benoit was thought of as an excellent in-ring performer. And as far as we knew, a great guy. There is no correlation between taking steroids and what happened to Chris Benoit. Human beings are flawed. Chris went nuts. It happens in every form of life and everything, so that’s the only thing I can take away from it.”
The topic of CTE, a condition linked to repetitive head injuries, is also addressed. Benoit’s frequent use of the diving headbutt in matches has been suggested as a potential cause of brain trauma that could have influenced his tragic actions. McMahon, however, dismisses this theory:
“This doctor came up with this ridiculous statement of, ‘Okay here’s why Chris Benoit did this’. Some sort of trauma to his head… That’s a complete work. It looks like there’s damage, and there’s not. We know what we’re doing. We don’t hurt each other.”
Despite the dismissive tone toward CTE, the discussion remains a complex and sensitive issue, with Benoit’s tragedy still casting a shadow over the wrestling world.
As Mr. McMahon explores one of WWE’s darkest moments, the opinions shared by Vince McMahon and Steve Austin are sure to spark debate among viewers, especially regarding the impact of head trauma in professional wrestling.
What’s your take on Vince McMahon’s comments regarding the Chris Benoit tragedy and CTE? Do you think the issue of head injuries in wrestling is being taken seriously enough? Share your thoughts in the comments below!