This is a bit preliminary, but we're hearing that Maxim EIC Ed Needham — perhaps the most powerful fratboy in the world — is preparing for his big exit. Nothing super concrete, but we're under the impression that a select few around the Maxim offices have been privy to the news that Needham is planning to leave this particular laddy juggernaut, perhaps even for the risqué embrace of a competitor (or maybe to pursue his dream of working at an upscale optical boutique).

We weren't quite sure we bought this one, so we contacted Needham himself, who told us our sources were wrong and, moreover, that our rumor is "completely devoid of truth grains" (such quaint, British sentence construction). Nevertheless, it's fun gossip, and we're curious as to why it's persisted. Some suggest that Needham, were he to go, would head back to his native England. And Rupert Murdoch is launching a weekly lad mag over there. Hmmm.

Oh well. Too bad we don't have any "truth grains."
UPDATE: Perhaps our sources are total drunks and meant Maxim executive editor Charles Coxe, who resigned last night. Maybe they meant Needham all along, and there'll be a bloodbath. Maybe we just want to be done with this story. Cove's email after the jump.

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After 8 years, 2 months, 24 days, and about 50 pounds of Godfather sandwiches, it's finally time for me to leave the Dennis Publishing nest this Friday.

I can't say exactly what I'm off to do, but rest assured that it will undoubtedly involve some form of public humiliation.

I'm nothing if not painfully sentimental and long-winded, so let me just say to everyone at Dennis Publishing, past and present: Thank you for everything you've given me.

(Except the rash, Felix.)

My new email is [redacted]. Please stay in touch.

______________________________
Charles Olav Coxe
Executive Editor
Maxim Magazine