Guide Note

In the wake of the Chris Benoit murder-suicide in 2007, World Wrestling Entertainment suspended several of its wrestlers who violated its wellness program.

Fast Facts

1. No public guidelines exist regarding all grounds for suspension
2. Prior to 2007, names of suspended wrestlers were not disclosed

Though numerous WWE wrestlers have been suspended in years prior to 2007 for behavioral conduct and/or contractual reasons, the public did not begin to scrutinize the company's handling of its workers until Benoit's death.

WWE implemented a wellness program in 2005 after the premature death of Eddie Guerrero, who died of heart failure after years of drug use.

Following Benoit's death, the press investigated Signature Pharmacy, an online drug company that supplied Benoit with anabolic steroids found at the murder scene. They discovered that other WWE wrestlers ordered from the company as well.

The WWE suspended or released 11 wrestlers in relation to the case, but did not disclose their names. The professional wrestling organization has since named all performers in subsequent suspensions especially relating to wellness policy violations.