Stephanie McMahon’s WWE Leave Of Absence ‘Didn’t Come Overnight’

UPDATED: Details continue to be revealed regarding Stephanie McMahon’s WWE leave of absence, with the latest report saying it wasn’t a sudden decision. Fightful Select reports that while the move surprised many, it didn’t “come overnight” and had been in the works for a while.

The report notes that some members of WWE’s PR team were made aware of the decision, as well as several members of the media who held off on reporting the news until it was made official. Sources in the company made it clear that the decision to focus on her family has nothing to do with marital issues. McMahon is still considered part of the WWE family and is expected back eventually.

While as reported Triple H is back working full-time now, the report notes that his duties are “categorically different” from what they were before his health issues.

ORIGINAL: As previously reported, Stephanie McMahon announced that she was taking a leave of absence from WWE in order to focus on her family. It was reported at the time that “no one but the most inner circle” had a clue she was going to make the announcement. Nick Khan will be taking over most of her responsibilities.

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter confirmed that the news “came out of nowhere” to most people in the talent and creative. There were a few people who knew but didn’t say much. There is said to he “more to it” but the reasons given “were not inaccurate,” and the part about family is “definitely part of it.” There’s no word on when she’ll be back, but she will be back.

It was noted that Triple H is back working full-time for the company after his health issues last year and subsequent in-ring retirement. While he was out, McMahon had to pick up many of his responsibilities, not to mention the personal toll one would expect.

It was noted that this absence was ‘100 percent her choice’ and has been coming for some time. It was added that she was not forced or pressured and it was “her choice.”