WWE has already let British wrestler Jack Gallagher go and AEW has said that Jimmy Havoc will be in treatment and counseling while they decide how to proceed. NWA VP David Lagana has also resigned.
WWE: https://www.wwe.com/article/jack-gallagher-released
We wish Jimmy Havoc all the best as he receives treatment and counseling in an effort to overcome the mental health and substance abuse challenges in his life. pic.twitter.com/mh0hudsPuW
— All Elite Wrestling (@AEWrestling) June 19, 2020
Pursuant to allegations made by pro wrestler Liz Savage on her Twitter account, 6/18/2020, NWA VP David Lagana has resigned his position, effective immediately. As well all production of NWA content is temporarily halted, pending a restructuring of executive management positions.
— NWA (@nwa) June 19, 2020
Other people who are facing allegations include David Starr, Jim and Stacey Cornette, Velveteen Dream and Matt Riddle from NXT, and a long list of British wrestlers from NXT UK and the British indie scene including Jordan Devlin, Ligero, Travis Banks, Mikey Whiplash and many more.
UK police have started an investigation.
EVERYONE PLEASE READ
— Leanne-Marie 🖤💪🏻 (@LeanneMarieWres) June 19, 2020
Well done everyone for sharing their experiences. You are helping change Pro Wrestling for the better.
Contact me with any questions.#SpeakingOut pic.twitter.com/uY1e7JrkYK
Not all allegations have been confirmed, but wrestlers on both sides of the pond have been showing support for the people speaking out.
#SpeakingOut is hard to do and I applaud each and every one who shared their truth. We are survivors and there is strength in overcoming turmoil. I pray you all usher in a peace that surpasses all understanding! Much love 🤎
— Big Swole 💪🏾 (@SwoleWorld) June 19, 2020
They’ll make you feel it’s your fault, that you were looking for the abuse. They’ll say it’s bc the clothes you wear, the pictures you post, the way you talk, the nationality you have. FUCK THEM, I hope now y’all understand and change for better.. #SpeakingOut
— TAY CONTI (@TayConti_) June 19, 2020
THIS. The amount of untold stories, typed & then deleted. As I could imagine for so many others as well.
— KYLIE RAE (@IamKylieRae) June 19, 2020
It’s okay to not be ready. So much love and respect for those who are #SpeakingOut https://t.co/mkNSEJcTmT
I’ve been in the wrestling business since I was 18. I, like so many others, have been in situations where I felt I had no voice and was forced to bury it so deep that I never have to think about it again. #SpeakingOut
— The Bunny 🐇 (@AllieWrestling) June 19, 2020
I’m only just catching up properly with social media and wow. Seeing so many of you speaking out against these disgusting humans makes me so sad to see your experiences but proud of you for telling your story. Keep using your voice. We love you and have your back ❤️ #SpeakingOut
— PAIGE (@RealPaigeWWE) June 19, 2020
I truly admire those who are sharing their stories. All in hopes that it will help someone who may have similar experiences and to prevent these things from ever happening in our industry again. We’re here for you. My heart is with you all. #SpeakingOut
— Bayley (@itsBayleyWWE) June 19, 2020
There is a lot more on the #SpeakingOut hashtag: https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpeakingOut
The wrestling scene has a long history of sexual and physical abuse allegations, going right up to the top (Vince McMahon), and including many WWE hall of famers like Jerry Lawler, Ric Flair, JBL and others. Whether this is the start of a true #MeToo moment for the industry remains to be seen, but for now we hear and support those who are speaking out.
If you are in the UK, you can write to your MP to urge support for the Sexual Offences (Sports Coaches) Bill 2019-21, which would outlaw coaches from having relationships with trainees under 18.
Dakota Kai has been streaming on Twitch to raise money for RAINN. You can contribute directly at https://www.rainn.org/
Sources: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
