A lawsuit has been filed by a crew member during an All Elite Wrestling event when Jonathan David Good aka Jon Moxley allegedly went “off script” and injured Christopher Francis Dispensa.
The lawsuit (h/t Cageside Seats) states that Dispensa was injured at the May 10, 2023 AEW Dynamite at the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit Michigan. The lawsuit states that Dispensa was holding a screwdriver for Moxley to use during a match. It further states that when Moxley took the screwdriver from Dispensa, he shoved him to the ground causing real physical injuries.
The lawsuit alleges (among other legal theories) “negligent hiring, training, supervision & retention” and negligence as to AEW and assault and battery against Moxley.
The allegations against AEW stem from contracting Moxley as a performer and failing to prevent him from staying “on script” and not harming those not in the performance. Of course, for his Moxley is being sued for his physical actions.
While this alleged actions do not rise to criminal assault, battery is the unlawful touching of another without consent which this seems to be. Dispensa was not made aware that Moxley would physically push him according to the Complaint.
There is the defense of Assumption of the Risk as Dispensa knew this was a “violent” wrestling match and Moxley was playing his character of being uncaring to others. However, the unintentional physical harm inflicted on the crew member may find him liable.
The lawsuit was filed on May 30th so we should se a response by AEW and Moxley’s legal representatives. I would think this ends with a settlement although AEW may fight this and move the venue to Florida where it is located. MPO will continue to follow.
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