A lawsuit has been initiated against Jon Moxley, following claims that the professional wrestler seriously injured a production team member during a live AEW Dynamite broadcast on May 10, 2023, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. The alleged incident, in which Moxley is accused of shoving a worker to the ground and causing severe injuries, is at the heart of the legal complaint, with the core issue centering on Jon Moxley being sued for negligence and civil assault in AEW Dynamite incident.
Christopher Dispensa filed the complaint in Wayne County on May 30, asserting that he sustained significant harm, including damage to his cervical spine and shoulder that required surgical procedures. Dispensa claims that, while he was working at the event as a production staff member and not as a performer, he was unexpectedly pushed by Moxley, deviating from the planned script and resulting in long-term bodily damage.
Details of the Alleged Assault During Steel Cage Match
The episode in question featured a steel cage match with Jon Moxley facing Kenny Omega, with Dispensa contracted by Little Caesars Arena to assist with production tasks. He was directed to provide Moxley with a screwdriver—a move that was reportedly scheduled as part of the match proceedings. However, Dispensa’s lawsuit alleges that he was not notified or warned that any physical interaction would take place after handing over the object.
According to the civil suit, Moxley allegedly placed his hands on Dispensa’s face and shoulder before forcefully shoving him to the ground, catching Dispensa completely off guard and deviating from the agreed and scripted actions. The complaint details that this unscripted act resulted in Dispensa suffering substantial injuries, including the need for surgery on his cervical spine and shoulder, and requiring intensive medical care.
The document further states that, at the time of the incident, Dispensa was not made aware that his role would change from behind-the-scenes support to becoming an active participant, nor was he given any protection or notice regarding the risk of being physically engaged by one of the wrestlers.
Claims of Prior Issues and Alleged Negligence by AEW
Beyond the alleged physical assault, the lawsuit accuses All Elite Wrestling (AEW) of negligence related to hiring, training, and managing Jon Moxley, suggesting that AEW either knew, or should have known, of his purported history of “unpredictability and prior disciplinary issues.” Although no specific examples of earlier incidents are listed in the suit, the filing highlights what the plaintiff claims is a pattern involving Moxley and a lack of sufficient oversight by AEW.
“Upon information and belief, Defendant MOXLEY had a history of disciplinary issues before this incident involving other people while under Defendant AEW’s employ, agency and/or contractual relationship.”
—Lawyers for Dispensa
“The past disciplinary offenses by Defendant MOXLEY include a documented history of unpredictability as well as a lack of control by Defendant AEW, all of which were known or should have been known to Defendant AEW at the time of this assault.”
—Lawyers for Dispensa
The legal team for Dispensa also argues that his severe injuries were a direct result of AEW’s alleged failure in background checks and oversight of its performers. The complaint claims responsibility falls on the organization for not taking proper precautions when employing individuals like Moxley and not providing an adequate warning or protection to workers like Dispensa.
“As a proximate cause of Defendant AEW’s negligent hiring, training, supervision and retention of its employees, agents and/or contracted individuals, Plaintiff was seriously injured.”
—Lawyers for Dispensa
Extent of Injuries Still Uncertain
According to court filings, the full impact of Dispensa’s injuries may not yet be known, as he continues to experience physical complications since the event took place. The seriousness of the harm and potential for ongoing issues forms a major part of the complaint’s argument for substantial damages.
“Defendant MOXLEY’s actions did harm Plaintiff, the extent of which is still unknown, as Plaintiff continues to have physical issues related to the incident.”
—Lawyers for Dispensa
Damages and Relief Sought in Court
The lawsuit, entered officially on May 30, seeks compensation in excess of $25,000, which aligns with Michigan’s legal requirement for bringing civil claims before a circuit court. The final amount requested will be decided based on the outcome of court proceedings and jury determination.
Dispensa’s legal counsel specifically requests restitution for a broad range of damages including extensive medical expenses, lost wages and earning capacity, permanent and significant disfigurement, and enduring pain—both physical and emotional. The claim also seeks exemplary damages for what is described as humiliation, anxiety, and the impact on Dispensa’s reputation and future professional prospects.
“A. Medical expenses;B. Disability;C. Permanent and serious disfigurement;D. Wage Loss and Lost Earnings CapacityE. Pain and suffering;F. Exemplary damages for mental and emotional anxiety,humiliation and/or indignity;G. Diminution in business reputation and opportunitiesH. Other economic and noneconomic damages not yet known.I. All other damages available under Michigan LawWHEREFORE, Plaintiff demands judgment against Defendants in an amount to bedetermined by the jury, together with costs, interest, and such other relief as this Court”
—Lawyers for Dispensa
Unanswered Claims and Future Developments
Despite the lawsuit attracting widespread attention due to the involvement of Jon Moxley, a prominent figure in AEW, neither Moxley nor AEW have made any public comments or issued responses regarding the legal action so far. The outcome of the lawsuit could have significant implications for how wrestling promotions manage production staff safety and oversee performer conduct during live televised events. The court is set to determine the financial liability and any further actions based on the evidence presented by all parties involved.
