Fightful reported on Wednesday that a new lawsuit was filed against Vince McMahon, his wife Linda McMahon, and TKO Group Holdings, by five former “Ring Boys” who have accused former WWE employees of sexual abuse.
The term was applied to young men who were employed by WWE and the lawsuit, filed by DiCello Levitt and Murphy, Falcon & Murphy, alleges that the survivors, referred to as John Does 1-5, were hired by Melvin Phillips Jr.. Phillips was WWE’s ringside announcer and ring crew chief, and subsequently groomed and sexually abused these boys.
The lawsuit claims that Phillips exploited underaged boys, primarily from broken homes, during WWE’s events. These assaults occurred not only at wrestling venues but also in hotel rooms, with WWE allegedly turning a blind eye to the pervasive abuse. The lawsuit claims that WWE was aware these horrific acts were ongoing and they are being sued for failing to intervene. Sports Illustrated quotes the filing and notes:
In 1992, Mr. Phillips and Mr. Garvin were accused of having inappropriate contact with Tom Cole, a former “Ring Boy”. Pat Patterson was also accused in Mr. Cole’s complaint. All three resigned from WWE in the wake of the accusations. Mr. Garvin died in 1998. Mr. Phillips died in 2012. Mr. Patterson died in 2020. Mr. Cole died in 2021.
Greg Gutzler, a partner at DiCello Levitt, said, “The bravery of our clients gives us the chance to hold accountable those who allowed and enabled this rampant abuse.” The lawsuit seeks justice for the survivors, who recently learned of WWE’s alleged knowledge of the abuse.
Former WWE writers open up about a toxic work environment fueled by fear, script changes, and verbal abuse, with Vince McMahon at the center of it.
DiCello Levitt is determined to uncover the full truth behind the systemic abuse. This lawsuit comes at a time when TKO Holdings, WWE, and Endeavor are attempting to usher in a new era for the company, distancing themselves from the controversies that occurred under McMahon’s leadership. This certainly isn’t ideal timing and it sheds a pretty horrific light on WWE as they are trying to reshape the company’s future.
If WWE and TKO were aware of these allegations and a potential lawsuit might have been pending, it’s not a good look for the company.
This news comes on the heels of former writers speaking out about the work environment Vince fostered when he was in control of the company, including verbal abuse and bullying.
