They say truth prevails, but what if you cannot even speak your truth?
That is the plight of many professionals in a highly power-imbalanced dynamic. The influence of one person can silence the voices of several victims.
However, just an ounce of courage is enough to change this despair into empowerment. And just like that, one woman’s voice changed the course of WWE. In 2020, David Starr’s partner accused him of sexual abuse. This sparked a whole movement against the male wrestlers who got away with abuse just because they were famous, had influence, and were probably shielded by the federation.
However, the #SpeakingOut movement completely rerouted the discourse as more women came forward with allegations against some of the top WWE wrestlers. The latest “boy” on the chopping block was Jordan Devlin McDonagh.
A tweet by Hannah Francesca exposed JD McDonagh’s ugly side, alleging that she was in an abusive relationship with Jordan. She substantiated this claim by photos showing her bruises, which were caused by Jordan Devlin (allegedly).
WWE quickly responded to the allegations against one of its highly remunerative wrestlers, JD McDonagh, with an official statement to Forbes–
“We take any allegation of this nature very seriously and are looking into the matter.”
JD McDonagh Controversies & Allegation Explained
The 33-year-old Irish wrestler was born in Bray, County Wicklow in Ireland. He started his journey at 16, training under several proficient coaches, and even trained in Japan at one point. He made his way through the WWE and currently serves as an associate for The Judgment Day.
He is well-known as the longest-reigning NXT Cruiserweight Champion. He achieved several feats, including a two-time OTT World Champion, a one-time PROGRESS Tag Team Champion, Pro Wrestling Zero1 in Japan, and a one-time Zero1 International Lightweight Tag Team Champion.
Needless to say, he garnered a significant influence over the years, also quickly becoming a fan favorite.
However, the severity of the allegations against him has brought light to the power imbalance in the wrestling community. Hence, the #SpeakingOut movement has initiated the much-needed discourse, especially in the WWE NXT UK scene.
On the contrary, some also believe that the alleged victims could be misusing this movement to stigmatize the coveted professionals. But then again, the number of victims that came forward with their stories has tilted the argument. Several other abuse allegations against huge names, such as Jimmy Havoc and Marty Scurll, have been highlighted.
After the series of allegations, Tom Colohue, a freelance journalist, reported that an emergency meeting was summoned with WWE officials to make the decision on the allegations against the NXT talents.
However, apart from an official statement, there seems to be no firm resolute.
Francesca’s original tweet stated–
“This is scary. I’m really scared. Jordan Devlin did this to me. And this is just the physical damage. Not including my arse and back bruises…because I don’t fancy posting that online.
Forbes reported additional tweets from Francesca’s now protected posts, which say–
“To the promotions, wrestlers and fans staying silent. I hear you. To the abusers tweeting their support. I see you.”
“I was also told to reach out to my abuser as the whole thing might just be a ‘misunderstanding’??????? Promoters…..educate yourself. Don’t gaslight your fans or talent.”
As a sign of support and telling their own story, WWE NXT Superstar Piper Niven responded in a tweet–
“I feel like we are all just waiting for someone else to go first. I’m scared too, I see you and I love you. [heart emoji].”
However, Devlin has denied all the allegations against him.
What are your thoughts on this case? Do you think the alleged victims have any case here? Do you believe J D McDonagh? Let us know in the comments section below.
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