Baltimore, Maryland – Five former WWE ring boys recently filed a suit alleging exploitation and sexual abuse during their time working for the wrestling company. The suit, filed anonymously, targets Vince McMahon, former CEO of WWE, along with his wife Linda and their company TKO Group Holdings. The men, who were minors at the time of the abuse, claim that the McMahons were aware of the abuse but failed to intervene.
The ring crew chief, Melvin Philips Jr., has been accused of sexually abusing the former WWE ring boys, with allegations suggesting that the McMahons were informed about the abuse but did not take any action to address the situation. The lawsuit claims that incidences of sexual abuse were rampant and open within the company, with many individuals allegedly aware of the abuse but choosing to remain silent.
In response to the lawsuit, plaintiff lawyer Greg Gutzler expressed gratitude towards the courage of the clients for coming forward. He emphasized the importance of holding accountable those who allowed and enabled the abuse of the young boys within the wrestling industry. Another lawyer, Ann Callis, representing Janel Grant in a previous lawsuit against Vince McMahon, expressed solidarity with the new accusers and condemned the culture of sexual abuse and human trafficking allegedly perpetuated by McMahon within WWE.
Callis called for the waiver of any non-disclosure agreements that may have been signed by victims, in order to encourage others to come forward with their stories. The core message from Ms. Grant and other WWE survivors is the pursuit of accountability for McMahon, WWE, and all other involved parties. Despite these allegations and lawsuits, McMahon and his legal representatives have yet to make any public comments or responses regarding the claims made by the ring boys.