Vince McMahon announces retirement from WWE

Former WWE chief executive Vince McMahon announced his retirement Friday on Twitter, a decision that came in the middle of an investigation into allegations of hush money paid to women alleging sexual misconduct.

“At 77, time for me to retire,” MccMahon’s tweet says. “Thank you, WWE Universe. Then. Now. Forever. Together.”

A Wall Street Journal report says McMahon paid more than $12 million to four women over 16 years to over up claims of sexual misconduct and infidelity. The women, all of whom were involved with WWE, signed agreements that “prohibit them from discussing potential legal claims against or their relationships with the 76-year-old executive,” the report said.

A previous report from the Journal said the company’s board was investigating McMahon for agreeing to pay a secret $3 million settlement to a former employee with whom he allegedly had an affair. That woman is among the four mentioned in the latest report.

The longtime WWE boss last month agreed to step back from his role as chairman and CEO during the investigation.

“I have pledged my complete cooperation to the investigation by the special committee, and I will do everything possible to support the investigation,” McMahon said then in a statement. “I have also pledged to accept the findings and outcome of the investigation, whatever they are.”

McMahon’s daughter, Stephanie, has been serving as interim CEO and chairwoman.

CNN contributed to this report.