Lee Fitting, the former ESPN Senior Vice President of Production, is facing serious allegations of misconduct, raising questions about WWE’s decision to hire him earlier this year.
As noted earlier today on Ringside News, a report from The Athletic detailed claims that Fitting objectified women, made sexually charged comments, and fostered a toxic work environment during his tenure at ESPN.
Fitting was dismissed from ESPN in August 2023 after a complaint was filed against him in 2023 but that was not the sole purpose for his departure. Despite this, WWE brought him on board in January 2024 as their Head of Media and Production. Now, the move has drawn intense criticism, particularly in light of WWE’s ongoing legal battles involving accusations of misconduct at the highest levels.
Janel Grant, a former WWE employee who has accused Vince McMahon of sexual assault and harassment, responded to the revelations through her spokesperson, Kendra Barkoff-Lamy. In a statement issue directly to Ringside News, Barkoff-Lamy blasted WWE for perpetuating what she called an “unsafe work environment.”
“How can WWE claim they are committed to improving the company’s culture, and at the same time, hire a man earlier this year who was accused of sexual misconduct and workplace harassment in his previous role? The allegations against Lee Fitting during his time at ESPN are extremely concerning. Revelations like this are why Janel Grant’s lawyers sent a letter to WWE and Endeavor, urging them to release all current and former employees from their NDAs. The same old boys club who enabled Janel Grant’s abuse are continuing to put alleged predators in leadership roles, and this pattern must change once and for all.”
Grant’s legal team previously called on WWE and its parent company, Endeavor, to release employees from non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that allegedly shield misconduct within the organization. WWE has not responded to the request, and their silence on the allegations against Fitting has only fueled further scrutiny.
A WWE spokesperson declined to comment when reached by The Athletic. Meanwhile, Grant’s civil lawsuit against Vince McMahon, WWE, and John Laurinaitis recently resumed following the expiration of a six-month stay on December 11.
As these issues unfold, fans and industry insiders alike are questioning whether WWE is truly committed to creating a safe and inclusive work environment.
What’s your take on WWE’s decision to hire Lee Fitting amid these allegations? Should companies do more to vet leadership hires? Share your thoughts and feedback in the comments below!