Credit: WWE.com
WWE Hall of Famer The Godfather (Charles Wright) has opened up about the exclusive and star-studded celebration of Vince McMahon’s milestone 80th birthday in New York City. The private two-day event, held at the luxurious Baccarat Hotel and including other activities around the city, brought together iconic wrestling legends and current WWE stars for a truly unforgettable occasion.
A Lavish Birthday Celebration Fit for a WWE Titan
According to The Godfather on his Poddin’ Ain’t Easy podcast, Vince McMahon’s 80th birthday party was nothing short of extravagant. The WWE Chairman personally covered all expenses, including hotel rooms and tickets to major events such as a New York Yankees vs. Boston Red Sox baseball game. The celebration was capped off at Gotham Hall, a historic venue in New York City, showcasing the scale and exclusivity of the festivities.
The Godfather described how the guest list featured WWE royalty including The Undertaker, Kane, John Cena, JBL, and Teddy Long among others. Popular musicians like Jelly Roll provided entertainment, adding a modern flair to the legendary gathering. “Vince bought everything, paid for the hotel, just for us people,” Wright said, emphasizing the generosity and grandeur of the weekend.
Memorable Encounters With WWE Legends
One of the standout stories shared involved a humorous and unexpected reunion. The Godfather recounted how, after trying his first facial at a spa inside the hotel, he was surprised to see The Undertaker walk in next door, dressed similarly for the same treatment. The two icons shared a laugh, marveling at the novelty of such an experience for wrestling legends known for their tough personas.
The Godfather also mentioned the warmth of Vince McMahon himself, who greeted guests with appreciation and a touch of his classic showmanship. “He was all business, but it was like Vince back in the days he had his headset on, moving around, doing his thing,” Wright reported. This moment echoed the intense energy McMahon is known for behind the scenes of WWE broadcasts.
An Elite Guest List Amidst a Close-Knit Inner Circle
Other sources close to the event confirmed the attendance of both WWE alumni and current stars, including Drew McIntyre, Sheamus, The Miz, Maryse, and Titus O’Neil. Hall of Famer Jerry “The King” Lawler shared photos from the party, further highlighting its star-studded nature.
However, some notable wrestling veterans like Dutch Mantell revealed they were not invited, highlighting that McMahon’s guest list was mainly composed of his closest inner circle and longtime associates. Mantell expressed respect for the group Vince surrounded himself with, emphasizing these were people who had shaped WWE and stood loyally by McMahon over the years.
A backstage source familiar with WWE talent dynamics told Fightful on condition of anonymity, “Many current talents feel a deep respect and gratitude to Vince, even if their personal opinions differ. It was clear at the party that this was a family affair for Vince, bringing together the people who helped build the empire.”
Vince McMahon: Strong and Spirited at 80
Despite recent controversies surrounding McMahon’s personal and professional life, multiple eyewitnesses noted that he appeared in good health and high spirits during the birthday festivities. WWE Hall of Famer Teddy Long described McMahon’s appearance and demeanor during the two-night event, saying, “He looked great to me sharp suit, moving around with energy, and even had his headset on like he was running a show.”
This image of McMahon back in his element hinted at the enduring passion he has for wrestling. A WWE insider commented, “For Vince, this party was more than a celebration of his age; it was a reminder of the empire he built and the legacy he’s still very much a part of.”