Ugly. Vince McMahon, head of WWE, was on "The Today Show" today. He termed deceased wrestler/alleged murderer Chris Benoit "a monster" and hedged a bit about his previous statement that steroid use wasn't involved.
On Thursday, McMahon told the Today show's Meredith Vieira, "Steroids may or may not have had anything to do with this, It's all speculation until the toxicology reports come back.""This is not an act of rage," McMahon said of Benoit's asphyxiations of wife Nancy and 7-year-old son Daniel. "This is an act of deliberation ... a horrific tragedy. It happened in pro wrestling. There's a rush to judgment. There's almost a hysteria around us."
He also pointed a finger to the prescription medications investigators discovered in the house, and mentioned his organization's "wellness program," launched in February. Within the WWE, said McMahon, Benoit was known as "a mild-mannered individual. ... There was no way of telling this man was a monster."
Anabolic steroids were found in the house. Reports have also revealed that Benoit's son suffered from Fragile X Syndrome, which is a genetic condition often associated with cognitive disabilities and autism. Sources say that this may have led to stress between Benoit and his wife. Does anyone else long for the days of Hogan and his shirt with the holes in the back for easy rippage and "I Am A Real American"?
Jen#2 says:
This situation is awful, and my prayers are with the family of these poor souls, I also don't think it's fair to label chris benoit a monster, I truly believe that he was not of sound mind.
Naomi says:
I am disgusted and appalled at Vince and the way WWE is dealing with this. In his 22 year career Chris had always acted with respect and integrity and to slander his name is disgusting You should be ashamed Mr McMahon an all of you in the WWE. He was a brillant wrestler and a wonderful person.A mental breakdown does not make a monster and we all know it.RIP Chris your fans will always love and remember you the way you were.The WWE has alot to answer for reacting like this.
Fred says:
There's just so much to be appalled by in connection to this tragedy,from the actions of Mr.Benoit to the fact that in the past decade,approximately sixty pro wrestlers,all 45 or younger have died.
It really seems that pro wrestling,especially the WWE,has much to answer for.
matt warnentail says:
to those who slander the name of chris benoits name. you don't even know him that way. he was a better wrestler than most he just took a wrong turn in his life