The criminal trial of Charles “2 Cold Scorpio” Scaggs, the renowned former professional wrestler known for his tenure in WWE, WCW, and ECW, has been postponed yet again. According to recent court documents filed in Kansas City, Missouri, the trial, originally slated for November 3, 2025, is now rescheduled to begin on January 26, 2026. This marks the second delay following an earlier postponement from June 2025 to November 2025[1].
Background of the Case
The charges against Scaggs stem from a violent incident that took place on June 15, 2024, at a Love’s Travel Stop where Scaggs was employed as a security guard. The confrontation reportedly began when Scaggs asked a man to extinguish a lit cigarette inside the premises, which led to a verbal altercation. The situation escalated outside the store, culminating in Scaggs allegedly stabbing the man multiple times.
Scaggs has pleaded not guilty to two felony charges: first-degree assault and armed criminal action. His defense team has indicated a self-defense claim, arguing that Scaggs acted to protect himself during the altercation. The victim sustained serious stab wounds to multiple areas including the head, chest, legs, and abdomen, and was taken to a hospital in critical condition[4].
Trial Timeline and Delays
Initially, the trial was set to begin in June 2025. However, after a joint agreement between the defense and prosecution, it was postponed to November 3, 2025, accompanied by a pre-trial hearing on October 23, 2025[3][5]. Now, following a new request from the prosecution, the court has pushed the start date further back to January 26, 2026[1].
These delays reflect the complex nature of the case and the preparation required by both legal teams. Sources close to the situation tell us that the prosecution is finalizing additional forensic reports, while the defense is working on gathering witness testimonies that support Scaggs’ self-defense argument.
Impact on 2 Cold Scorpio’s Wrestling Career
Since the incident, 2 Cold Scorpio’s wrestling activities have been significantly affected. Scaggs was removed from a planned GCW Japan tour and several other independent bookings shortly after his arrest in mid-2024[1]. Industry insiders suggest that promoters have been cautious to associate their events with a high-profile wrestler undergoing serious legal proceedings.
According to a WWE insider who requested anonymity, “There’s sympathy for Charles among many veterans, but understandably, promoters want to avoid controversy that could alienate fans or sponsors.” Despite this, several wrestling legends from the ECW and WCW days have publicly offered their support, emphasizing belief in his innocence and hoping for a fair trial[1].
Legal Proceedings and Defense Strategy
Scaggs’ legal team has maintained that the alleged stabbing was done in self-defense. Court records show that the defense plans to argue that the escalation was provoked after Scaggs asked the man to extinguish the cigarette, and when confronted, Scaggs feared for his safety[2][4]. Video surveillance and eyewitness accounts are expected to play a crucial role in the upcoming trial.
A wrestling community member privy to the defense’s approach said, “They’re assembling a strong case demonstrating that Charles did not intend to harm, but acted because he was pushed into a corner during a sudden violent encounter.”
Ongoing Community Support and Outlook
While the legal battle continues, many in the wrestling world have rallied to offer moral support. Scaggs remains free on bond during the extended pre-trial period, allowing him to engage cautiously with the wrestling community.
“Charles’ peers have not abandoned him,” a wrestling veteran noted. “This is a tough chapter, but the hope is that justice will run its course fairly.”
With the trial now set for early 2026, the wrestling world watches closely as this saga unfolds. Fans and promoters alike await a resolution that will determine whether 2 Cold Scorpio can eventually return to the ring or if this legal challenge will mark a permanent halt to his storied career.
