Davey Richards Issues Statement On Pro Wrestling Status: “If This Is The End Of My In-Ring Career – I Am Nothing But Grateful For Every Time I Got To Step Foot In That Ring.”
Back in March of this year, some domestic abuse/violence allegations surfaced about Davey Richards from one of his ex-partners claiming Richards “engaged in inappropriate and unreasonable behavior … including significant use of cocaine and other substances and domestic violence [toward a different partner].” Wrestling Inc reports those are “an accurate representation of a court document” they’ve obtained.
Richards vehemently denied the allegations, but then retired from professional wrestling as a result of them.
In response to the allegations Richards issued the following statement to PWInsider, which we present in full:
Hello everyone –
Wow, what a couple of days.
There are allegations of Domestic Violence against me.
The allegations I adamantly deny and if you look on casenet in MO under my name Wesley David Richards you’ll see there are no charges filed against me.
However, I do understand the industry’s stance on this matter.
Everyone should feel safe at shows and I do not want to be the person whom damages that.
The pic being posted of my wife’s eye is from training and we regulatory train in martial arts as many of the students have have got black eyes and such.
Again, no charges were filed and I deny these allegations but I must do what is right and not what I want.
So I am canceling myself.
This great sport is far too wonderful for anyone, including myself to tarnish it.
I will wrap up my shows this weekend and I will be retiring from professional wrestling.
Please continue to support Team Ambition and this sport.
Throughout his professional career, Richards has been part of companies such as… Ring Of Honor, IMPACT Wrestling, New Japan Pro Wrestling, Major League Wrestling, PWG, and Pro Wrestling NOAH.
“The last 3 months have been – wow, tempestuous to say least. Things got very dark for awhile for me – at one point I planned on taking my own life. Sounds to surreal to think I was in that state. To have a couple bitter ex’s do through the trouble, turn, and effort to spread false information about me to destroy my wrestling career – a career that I came back to with no other intent then to just give back was harrowing. Worst – they succeeded in doing so.
I could have sought vengeance – but those whom seek vengeance should start by digging two graves. Since that time that accuser has admitted her claims were false and the other – well- that’s her cross to bear. I’ve dedicated my life to helping others through wrestling and medicine. To claim I was intentionally hurting others was heartbreaking. Worst again- everyone bought it. I really wanted to use my last year or so in wrestling to give back and give the vast amounts of knowledge back to the sport that has given me so much. But it looks like that was not meant to be.
But the darkest days always bring the brightest mornings. I’ve re – dedicated myself to my study of medicine, my love of grappling, and most of being a father. If I hold onto the bitterness and apathy as those whom tarnished my name then I am no better than them. So I forgive them. I was given a talent by God for wrestling and for medicine – no one can take that from me and it is my responsibility to use my talents and passion to help and serve humanity. Today I can say – I am happier than I have been in a very long time. I have peace and direction in life.
If this is the end of my in ring career – I am nothing but grateful for every time I got to step foot in that ring. Love me or hate me – I can say with complete honesty I gave you every thing I had in me every single time. Wrestling is good. Life is good. Love you all. Davey.”
After months of not addressing the issue after the initial statement denying the allegations, Richards released a tweet earlier today, explaining that it’s been a dark few months for him, but that he’s gotten back into medicine, grappling, and focused on being a father to his son.
Davey does mention in his statement that one of the accusers has claimed that she put out false claims against him, but with Davey being the abuser, it is hard to take this at face value.
Bodyslam staff will keep this situation updated if more information becomes available.
Follow Gerard at @BearDown316 on Twitter
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