The high-profile criminal case involving Shawn Chan, a Canadian national charged with interstate domestic violence against WWE Superstar Liv Morgan, has hit another significant delay. Originally set for this fall, the trial will now likely not commence until January 2026, following a newly filed, unopposed motion that cites the need for additional psychological evaluations and expert testimony[1][2][3]. The delay ensures that Morgan—whose real name is Gionna Daddio—and the WWE universe must continue waiting for legal closure more than a year after the unsettling incident took place.
What Led to the Delay?
According to court documents, both the defense and prosecution agree that further psychiatric assessment is necessary before the case can move forward. Chan’s initial psychological evaluation reportedly diagnosed him with delusional disorder, prompting his defense team to retain an additional expert for a more comprehensive evaluation[1][2][3]. If this new expert is set to testify, the prosecution has reserved the right to conduct its own independent examination.
A key part of the rationale for the delay, as cited in the motion, is to ensure both sides have a full understanding of Chan’s mental state and competency to stand trial. “The Defense has retained an expert to more fully evaluate Mr. Chan for purposes of trial, and likely to testify. If this second expert will provide testimony, the Government will have a right to conduct its own examination,” the filing states[1][2][3].
The Alleged Stalking Incident: Details and Disturbing Facts
Shawn Chan’s legal troubles began in the spring of 2025, when he allegedly flew from Scarborough, Ontario, to Orlando, Florida—on the same day his passport was issued—claiming to customs officials that he would be staying at the WWE Performance Center, which, in reality, does not offer housing for visitors[1][2][3]. Four days later, authorities allege, he traveled several hours to Liv Morgan’s Florida residence.
Surveillance footage reportedly captured Chan circling Morgan’s property multiple times. The criminal complaint details that he entered her backyard, tried unsuccessfully to gain entry through her front door, picked up an air pellet lying on her porch, waited for several hours, and ultimately left a note before departing[2]. According to a law enforcement source familiar with the case, “This level of persistence and the nature of the items he allegedly left behind show a pattern of behavior that goes beyond simple trespassing.”
Chan was arrested on June 3, 2025, and has remained in custody since, with multiple motions for pretrial release denied by the court[1][3]. The seriousness of the charges and the circumstances of the alleged crimes have made bail a non-starter for prosecutors, who argue that Chan presents a significant flight risk and potential danger to Morgan.
Liv Morgan’s Response and WWE’s Position
Liv Morgan, a former SmackDown Women’s Champion and one of WWE’s most popular female superstars, has understandably maintained a low profile regarding the criminal proceedings against her alleged stalker. However, sources close to the WWE locker room say the incident has had a lasting impact on her and those around her.
“This whole situation really shook up the women’s division,” a WWE staffer who requested anonymity told Wrestling News[2]. “The company has offered Liv all the support she needs, and security protocols for talent have been reviewed and tightened.” The source added that Morgan has been a “real professional” through the ordeal, continuing to perform despite the stress.
WWE, for its part, has not issued an official statement on the trial’s delay but has a longstanding policy of cooperating fully with law enforcement in such matters. The company is known to take the safety of its talent extremely seriously, especially in the wake of high-profile incidents involving celebrities and public figures.
The Legal Process: What Comes Next?
With the new trial date tentatively set for January 2026, both sides will have ample time to prepare their cases. The defense is expected to focus heavily on Chan’s mental health, potentially arguing that his alleged actions were the result of untreated psychiatric issues rather than malicious intent. The prosecution, meanwhile, will likely emphasize the disturbing nature of the alleged stalking and the risk Chan poses to Morgan and others.
According to legal analysts, cases involving accusations of stalking—especially those crossing state or national borders—often hinge on the defendant’s state of mind and intent. The outcome of further psychological evaluations could play a decisive role in whether Chan is deemed competent to stand trial and, if so, what defenses may be available to him.
Chan’s continued detention also reflects the gravity with which the U.S. justice system views crimes involving interstate stalking and domestic violence. The denial of bail, coupled with the detailed allegations, suggests prosecutors are taking no chances with public safety.
The Broader Impact on WWE and Its Fans
The delay in the trial means that WWE and its fans must continue to grapple with the shadow cast by this disturbing incident. Stalking and harassment are issues that transcend the wrestling world, but high-profile cases like this inevitably prompt discussions about celebrity privacy, personal safety, and the responsibilities of organizations like WWE to protect their talent.
According to a WWE insider, “This isn’t just about Liv; it’s a wake-up call for everyone in the business. The company is constantly evaluating its security measures, but no system is foolproof. What happened here is a reminder that these threats are real, and everyone needs to stay vigilant[2].”
In the meantime, Liv Morgan continues to compete on WWE programming, where she remains a fan favorite. Her resilience in the face of such a frightening experience has only deepened the admiration of her supporters.
Conclusion: Waiting for Justice
As Shawn Chan’s trial is postponed to January 2026, the wrestling world must once again confront the uncomfortable reality of celebrity vulnerability and the slow grind of the justice system. For Liv Morgan, her friends, family, and fans, the wait for closure continues. Until then, the focus remains on her safety, her career, and the hope that legal proceedings will eventually deliver the justice she deserves.
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