Vince McMahon stepped down as WWE CEO in 2022 following serious allegations made by former employee Janel Grant. Since then, reactions from within the wrestling industry have been divided. Some talents have criticized McMahon, while others continue to speak positively about his influence. WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair remains firmly in the latter group.
During a recent appearance on “The Ariel Helwani Show,” Flair spoke openly about his appreciation for McMahon and the role he played in helping him during a difficult period in his life. Flair made it clear that he believes wrestling fans should recognize McMahon’s contributions to the industry.
“Everybody in the world that likes wrestling should be thanking Vince McMahon,” Flair stated. “I feel like there’s so much going on that I would be wasting his time. He knows how I feel about him. He lent me $800,000, and unlike what people portray, it was not for the IRS. It was to help me get through three divorces at one time … they hate hearing this, I paid him back every dime when he called me and said; ‘I can write this off,’ I paid him back. Because I didn’t want to let him down. But they use that against me … You know how hard it is to pay taxes on $800,000 in phantom income? It took me five years to get out of that hole—all because I paid him back.”
Flair’s comments provide a detailed look at his financial struggles at the time and how McMahon supported him with a significant loan. He also addressed criticism he has received over the years regarding that situation, emphasizing that he repaid the full amount despite the financial burden it created.
Flair continued by recalling another moment that highlighted his respect for McMahon. After his retirement match against Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 24, Flair revealed that he received a payment for the event but chose to return it.
According to Flair, he signed the check and gave it directly back to McMahon, even though the former WWE Chairman did not expect anything in return. The gesture reflected Flair’s sense of loyalty and gratitude after years of working together at the highest level of the wrestling business.
While opinions on McMahon continue to vary across the industry, Flair’s stance remains consistent. His remarks highlight a personal side of their relationship, shaped by both professional success and financial support during a challenging chapter in his life.
Ric Flair Reflects on Vince McMahon Support and $800,000 Loan
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