Controversial Past Lingers as Drake Younger Apologizes at JCW Event

Game Changer Wrestling veteran Drake Younger delivered an in‑ring apology following a recent deathmatch at a Juggalo Championship Wrestling event, stating he is “a changed man.” During JCW’s Powder Keg show, Younger addressed the audience after a brutal match with Joey Janela.

“I’m here to report to you today with gratitude towards Violent J and JCW, towards Brett Lauderdale and Game Changer Wrestling,” Younger said. “I’m here before you a changed man. I am clean. I am sober. I am focused. And I am mentally sharp.”

He continued: “To anybody in the past five years that I may have offended … For those that I misrepresented, I want to genuinely say I’m sorry.”

Younger, a former WWE referee, had been released in 2021 amid controversies related to his political beliefs and behavior. Multiple reports indicate he “loudly criticize[d]” wrestlers for receiving vaccinations and mask mandates, skipped NXT tapings to speak against mask requirements in schools, and displayed behavior perceived as alienating - particularly toward wrestlers of color - many of whom said they “believed Drake Wuertz was racist, and felt uncomfortable around him at the WWE Performance Center.”

In November 2024, Younger was reportedly involved in a physical altercation with John Wayne Murdoch in the parking lot at a GCW event. According to reports, the two had to be separated after a confrontation tied to lingering tensions related to Younger’s reputation and past comments.

Younger’s apology marks a notable moment in his return to the spotlight - but it raises difficult questions. Has he taken meaningful steps to repair the harm caused to colleagues and communities he offended? Is this the beginning of accountability, or a public relations move for renewed acceptance in the wrestling world? And most importantly - will his actions moving forward reflect the change he claims?

Sources: PW Ponderings, Bodyslam.net, Cageside Seats