WWE Resignation: Shane McMahon Quits Effective January 1, 2010

When I read the news, I assumed that the WWE was playing one of their usual pranks on us wrestling fans. Shane McMahon, son of legendary WWE chairman Vince McMahon, was leaving the WWE after over 20 years? It couldn't possibly be true...sadly, the announcement is not a hoax, it's true.

Shane McMahon issued a statement via the wwe.com website today informing wrestling fans worldwide of his planned resignation from the WWE effective January 1, 2010. The statement reads, "I have never even considered a future outside the walls of the WWE. However, sometimes life takes an unexpected turn, and while it is the most difficult decision I have ever made, it is time for me to move on." No additional information about what Shane plans to pursue or why the sudden departure was available on the site.

Shane McMahon's role in the World Wrestling Entertainment business has focused on global media and marketing. Perhaps Shane had seen the writing on the wall as far as his ability to run the organization once his father, Vince McMahon, steps down. Originally, most wrestling fans would have assumed that Shane would be the natural choice in taking the thrown of this global empire. However, over the past ten years, Shane's sister, Stephanie McMahon has been the driving creative force of the WWE and Shane's creative influence has faltered.

Vince McMahon also posted a message on the wwe.com website stating, "Even though I am personally saddened by Shane's decision to leave the company, I am proud of the enormous contributions he has made." I'm sure that wrestling fans of the world have not heard the end of what caused the sudden departure of the beloved son of the wrestling empire. In any case, with his accomplishments in a multi-million dollar organization, I'm certain that Shane McMahon will find great success in his life outside of the WWE.