Former WWE Star Curtis Axel Arrested on DWI Charges in Minnesota
Former WWE performer Joe Hennig, widely recognized by wrestling fans as Curtis Axel, is facing legal trouble following his arrest earlier this month in St. Francis, Minnesota. The former professional wrestler, who is the son of WWE Hall of Famer “Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig, was taken into custody after an incident at a local McDonald’s drive-thru.
Details of the Incident
According to reports from local law enforcement, officers from the St. Francis Police Department were dispatched to a McDonald’s on Saint Francis Boulevard Northwest on May 17 following reports of a vehicle collision. Upon arrival, officers observed a truck moving slowly through the parking lot. The responding officers noted that the driver, identified as Hennig, exhibited visible signs of impairment, including slurred speech and bloodshot, watery eyes.
The criminal complaint alleges that the situation escalated when Hennig refused to comply with officer commands to exit the vehicle. Authorities report that officers were eventually required to physically remove him from the truck after he showed resistance. Once in custody, Hennig allegedly refused to submit to chemical testing and reportedly directed verbal abuse toward the officers on the scene.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Hennig faces a series of charges stemming from the incident, which reflect the severity of the alleged conduct. Court records indicate the following charges:
- Gross misdemeanor refusal to submit to a chemical test
- Misdemeanor driving while intoxicated (DWI)
- Obstructing the legal process
- Violation of open bottle laws
- Disorderly conduct
During an inventory search of the vehicle, police reportedly discovered an open 750 mL bottle of vodka on the passenger side floorboard. Following his arrest, a judge set bail conditions for Hennig, allowing for release under specific parameters or a $12,000 bond. The case remains active in the Anoka County court system.
A Legacy in Professional Wrestling
Joe Hennig is a third-generation professional wrestler, carrying on a storied family tradition that includes his grandfather, Larry “The Axe” Hennig, and his father, the iconic Curt Hennig. He enjoyed a lengthy tenure with WWE from 2007 to 2020, competing under the ring names Michael McGillicutty and Curtis Axel. During his career, he achieved multiple accolades, including holding the Intercontinental Championship and the WWE Tag Team Championship.
Key Takeaways
- Subject: Joe Hennig (Curtis Axel), former WWE superstar.
- Location: St. Francis, Minnesota.
- Charges: Includes DWI, obstruction of legal process, and refusal to submit to chemical testing.
- Status: The case is currently moving through the Anoka County judicial system.
This is a developing story. As legal proceedings continue, further details regarding the court’s findings will be updated. For resources regarding alcohol-related issues or legal support, please consult local community health services or legal counsel.