TRIGGER WARNING - SEXUAL ABUSE
On October 23, a new lawsuit was filed against WWE, Vince McMahon, Linda McMahon, and TKO on behalf of "Ring Boys" who survived sexual abuse. Five survivors, named as John Does, claim they were groomed and sexually abused by WWE ring crew boss and ring announcer Mel Phillips.
The lawsuit cites multiple examples of former WWE personnel and talent indicating that it was common knowledge that Phillips was sexually abusing ring boys.
The entire lawsuit can be read by clicking here.
Vince and WWE are already facing a lawsuit filed by former employee Janel Grant, who alleged she was sexually assaulted and trafficked by Mr. McMahon. The lawsuit is currently on pause as McMahon is under federal investigation.
Ann Callis, the attorney for Grant, gave the following statement (via Brandon Thurston) on the new lawsuit:
"The allegations in the ‘ring boys’ lawsuit against WWE are deeply troubling. Vince McMahon made sexual abuse and human trafficking a hallmark of WWE’s culture for decades. Survivors like Janel Grant and other former WWE employees deserve their day in court. All former WWE employees who experienced sexual abuse and harassment should be allowed to tell the truth by having their non-disclosure agreements waived. Ms. Grant stands by all WWE survivors and believes that Mr. McMahon, WWE, and all involved parties must be held accountable."
On October 8th, Representatives for Janel Grant asked for nondisclosure agreements to be waived in their lawsuit against Vince McMahon, WWE, and John Laurinaitis. Waiving the NDAs would allow former and current employees and contractors to potentially come forward with allegations.
David Bixenspan, who has been covering the story of Mel Phillips and the Ring Boy scandal for at least four years, wrote an extensive piece for Rolling Stone regarding the lawsuit. Fans can read his previous coverage from Business Insider here.
Victim Resources:
National Sexual Assault Hotline
Hours: Available 24 hours
1-800-656-4673
