EDIT: Link to Post Wrestling Article
PWInsider is quoting PostWrestling.com but it’s Mike Johnson so the story is likely vetted.
PostWrestling.com is reporting that TNA has suspended former TNA Champion Rich Swann after they became aware that Swann was arrested this past June and charged with disorderly public intoxication and causing a disturbance, a misdemeanor offense. TNA stated to PostWrestling.com that they were not aware of Swann’s 6/8 arrest until being asked for comment.
Swann was released on a $250 bond on 6/9. He has a case hearing this week in Florida.
It should be noted that on his Facebook page, Swann has posted numerous times in recent months that he has been alcohol free, which would line up with right after the arrest.
“TNA Wrestling takes any and all charges against its performers seriously,” TNA told POST Wrestling in a statement. “Rich Swann is responsible for his own personal actions. He has informed TNA Wrestling that he is voluntarily entering into a substance abuse rehabilitation program. TNA Wrestling has suspended Rich pending the completion of its investigation into the incidents.”
Swann had been paired with AJ Francis as First Class in recent months.
Not defending Swann’s actions here, he clearly needs to stay sober, but it is possibly the most MURICA thing I’ve read today to flash a gun at a drunk who is clearly confused about being at the wrong door.
I’ve had this happen to me a few times over the years - Newcastle has more than it’s fair share of drunks and pissed up tourists - if you stay calm, be patient, and repeat yourself a lot, you’ll be fine.
But getting aggressive is unbelievably stupid behaviour, which has the very real possibility of rapidly escalating the situation should the confused drunk also be carrying.