Former NBA referee Tim Donaghy is back in pinstripes. Only this time, he was in the squared circle.
Donaghy made his debut as a “crooked” referee in the main event of Major League Wrestling's Fusion on Wednesday night. He prohibited fan-favorite Savio Vega from winning a title as part of his role in the match.
The disgraced NBA referee told Sports Illustrated it was a different sort of experience, but one he enjoyed:
“I think people are going to find it entertaining,” Donaghy said, per SI's Justin Barrasso. “I was a little out of my comfort zone, but I think it went well.”
Donaghy set the NBA world on fire when he alleged the league directed officiating crews to rig playoff series, including the 2002 Western Conference Finals between the Los Angeles Lakers and Sacramento Kings.
Ultimately, Tim Donaghy pleaded guilty to gambling charges and was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison.
Article Continues BelowStill, Donaghy has not shied away from the spotlight, routinely doubling down on past allegations of game-fixing. He will never return to the hardwood, but might there be a future in wrestling?
Donaghy said he was open to a continued partnership with MLW:
“Wrestling is a form of entertainment, and I’m having fun with it,” Donaghy said, via Barrasso. “It got a little more physical than I expected, but it was definitely exciting. Everyone was very helpful and professional, and I hope I’m part of it again.”
While Donaghy might be hoping for a new career in wrestling, he will forever be synonymous with one of the more notable scandals in NBA history.