Getty Image / Brian Ach
Fallout from the recent lawsuit against Vince McMahon continues as the Bella Twins, Nikki and Brie Garcia, have shared a joint statement about the situation as their stepdad, John Laurinaitis, is named as a defendant in the suit.
The WWE is facing a major reckoning after disturbing allegations against Vince McMahon were brought forth in a lawsuit alleging sexual misconduct and sex trafficking. Following the lawsuit’s allegations (and the loss of a major WWE sponsor), Vince McMahon has already resigned from his position as both the Executive Chairman of TKO Group Holdings and from his seat on the TKO Board of Directors. This is the second time in two years Vince McMahon has resigned due to a scandal.
Bella Twins Are ‘Shocked’ And ‘Disheartened’ By Vince McMahon Allegations
In a joint statement on Instagram, Nikki and Brie Garcia shared the following message:
“We are shocked and disheartened with the recent allegations against members of the WWE. It has been a lot to process since we found out this past week just as you all did.”
“This is something we don’t stand for or condone from anyone no matter who they are. We want all women to feel safe and supported in the workplace and in their everyday lives.”
A key part of that message is ‘no matter who they are.’ John Laurinitis married the Bella Twins‘ mother Kathy back in 2016. He is the former Head of Talent Relations for the WWE but was terminated in 2022 at the time of Vince McMahon’s last scandal which revolved around alleged hush payments that were allegedly paid out due to sexual misconduct.
In the lawsuit filed against Vince McMahon last week, the Bella Twins’ stepfather John Laurinitis was named as a defendant. According to the Post, the new lawsuit alleges “McMahon and Laurinaitis once forced themselves on (the former employee) at WWE offices as they took turns holding her down” while she was assaulted by others. The lawsuit also alleges heinous language was used toward the former employee during the assault.
Fans of the Bella Twins seemed to support them releasing the message. There were some negative comments on Instagram pointing out how they didn’t specifically use anyone’s name in their message. Those comments missed the part where they specifically said “this is something we don’t stand for or condone from anyone no matter who they are.” That’s as clear as they need to be.
Elsewhere in the WWE, Ronda Rousey has accused Bruce Pritchard (a WWE executive) of being a shadow puppet for Vince McMahon. There is talk of endeavor ‘cleaning house’ on anyone closely tied to Vince McMahon.