Five former WWE ring boys claim they were exploited and sexually abused during their time working for the wrestling giant — while scandal-scarred ex-CEO Vince McMahon did nothing to stop it.
The men – who were underaged boys at the time of the alleged abuse – filed suit anonymously in a Maryland court against McMahon, his wife Linda and their company TKO Group Holdings.
The couple allegedly knew about the sexual abuse by ring crew chief Melvin Philips Jr. but did nothing to stop it from happening, the court papers claim.
“Thanks to the bravery of our clients, we finally have a chance to hold accountable those who allowed and enabled the open, rampant sexual abuse of these young boys,” plaintiff lawyer Greg Gutzler said in a statement.
“That so many were aware of the sexual abuse of the ring boys and did nothing to prevent or stop it is simply unconscionable.”
Ann Callis, a lawyer for Janel Grant who sued McMahon earlier this year claiming he sexually abused and trafficked her, called the new claims “deeply troubling” and said Grant stands in solidarity with the new accusers.
“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,” Callis said in a statement.
The lawyer said any non-disclosure agreements victims may have signed should be waived so they can come forward with their stories.
“Ms. Grant stands by all WWE survivors and believes that Mr. McMahon, WWE, and all involved parties must be held accountable.”
McMahon and a lawyer representing him in another case both didn’t immediately return requests seeking comment Wednesday afternoon.
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