WWE has come to terms on the release of NXT UK Superstars Ligero & Travis Banks. This decision puts an end to the speculation over how WWE would respond to allegations uncovered by the #SpeakingOut movement. Banks and Ligero (real name Simon Musk) join Jack Gallagher, who WWE released on June 19th. WWE released all three men over allegations of sexual misconduct.
Banks issued a statement via his twitter in response to the allegations. In the statement he explains the relationship he had with a former trainee, who was 17 at the time. The former trainee alleges Banks used his position as a trainer to pursue sexual relationships. Ligero also issued a statement via Twitter in response to allegations of sexual harassment and assault. However, he has since deleted all social media accounts.
Prominent UK indie promotion PROGRESS Wrestling dropped Banks and Ligero earlier this month in response to the same allegations. The list of wrestlers PROGRESS released at that time included their fellow NXT UK performer Jordan Devlin.
The #SpeakingOut Movement started after prominent UK indie wrestler David Star was accused of sexual assault by a former girlfriend. Following the accusation, many others came forward with reports of sexual abuse and misconduct within the industry. The movement soon spread to North America. IMPACT wrestling released Joey Ryan, Dave Crist, and Michael Elgin over allegations uncovered by #SpeakingOut. All Elite Wrestling suspended Darby Allin and Sammy Guevara indefinitely over their allegations. The #SpeakingOut movement also uncovered allegations against WWE wrestlers Matt Riddle and Velveteen Dream. Both men have since denied the accusations.
WWE Release Ligero & Travis Banks
Some promotions, namely Bar Wrestling and CHIKARA Pro have opted to close their doors in the wake of these allegations. Others, like PROGRESS Wrestling, have opted instead to implement structural changes to ensure a safe, positive environment for wrestlers, crew, and fans alike.
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