One big thing
Five former WWE ring boys filed a sexual assault lawsuit against Vince McMahon, WWE, Linda McMahon, and TKO Holdings, alleging they were sexually abused by former announcer Mel Phillips Jr.
Why it matters
This lawsuit is the second major legal action against McMahon and WWE this year, following Janel Grant’s sex trafficking and abuse allegations. It highlights a pattern of alleged misconduct within the company spanning decades.
Key details
• The lawsuit accuses McMahon, WWE, and others of turning a blind eye to the sexual abuse of ring boys.
• Janel Grant’s attorney, Ann Callis, released a statement in response to the new lawsuit.
• Callis called the allegations “deeply troubling” and stated that McMahon made “sexual abuse and human trafficking a hallmark of WWE’s culture for decades.”
• The attorney urged WWE to waive non-disclosure agreements for former employees who experienced sexual abuse and harassment.
Historical context
Previous allegations
• In the 1990s, former ring boy Tom Cole accused Mel Phillips and Terry Garvin of sexual harassment and misconduct.
• Cole reached an out-of-court settlement with WWE.
• Tragically, Cole committed suicide in February 2021 at the age of 50.
What they’re saying
Ann Callis, Janel Grant’s attorney:
“Survivors like Janel Grant and other former WWE employees deserve their day in court. Ms. Grant stands by all WWE survivors and believes that Mr. McMahon, WWE, and all involved parties must be held accountable.”
The big picture
These new allegations add to the growing list of legal and ethical challenges facing WWE and its former chairman, Vince McMahon. The pattern of alleged misconduct spanning decades raises questions about the company’s culture and leadership.
As this story continues to develop, how do you think these lawsuits will impact WWE’s future and the professional wrestling industry as a whole? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
