In a new lawsuit, WWE chairman Vince McMahon and the WWE organization are accused of knowingly allowing widespread sexual abuse of young boys by former ringside announcer Melvin Phillips Jr. during his employment in the 1970s, 1980s, and early 1990s. Phillips, who died in 2012, is accused of using his position to exploit minors for personal gain.

Abuse allegations and McMahon’s knowledge

Filed in Baltimore County on behalf of five anonymous plaintiffs known as John Does, the suit claims Phillips would hire boys as young as 12 or 13 under the guise of assisting the ring crew, only to later abuse them.

According to the lawsuit, McMahon was aware of Phillips’ misconduct, allegedly describing Phillips’ interest in young boys as “peculiar and unnatural” in the 1980s. The suit further asserts that at some venues, Phillips was even provided with a private dressing room, where he reportedly filmed encounters with the minors on a personal video camera—an unusual possession at the time, underscoring the claim that his behavior was “open” and unchecked.

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Lawyers speak out on the case

Representing the plaintiffs, Greg Gutzler, a partner at DiCello Levitt, condemned the alleged negligence. “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,” Gutzler said in a statement. “That so many were aware…and did nothing to prevent or stop it is simply unconscionable.”

DiCello Levitt’s founding partner, Mark DiCello, emphasized WWE’s responsibility toward the alleged victims. “The WWE and McMahons had a responsibility to these underaged boys, and they failed them in the worst way possible. We will vigorously fight to uncover the truth about this systemic, insidious, and life-altering abuse,” he said, adding that they “commend our clients for their bravery in coming forward.”

Recent accusations in Netflix docuseries

McMahon was recently featured in a Netflix docuseries, Mr. McMahon, which highlighted additional claims of misconduct, including sexual assault and allegations of trafficking involving former WWE employee Janel Grant.

McMahon has publicly denied these claims, asserting that the series “misrepresented” him. The case now joins a growing list of serious allegations surrounding McMahon and WWE, casting a new shadow over the organization as more lawsuit details emerge.