Just as Liv Morgan’s alleged stalking case was about to go to trial, an unexpected development has emerged that could alter the proceedings significantly.
PWInsider reports that Sean Chan, accused of interstate stalking and domestic violence involving Liv Morgan, has officially submitted a notice of an insanity defense. This motion was filed on December 23, 2025, ahead of the trial initially set for January 12, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida.
Chan’s defense team filed under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 12.2(b), which allows expert testimony to support an insanity claim. The defense stated that after reviewing findings and consulting with Chan, they determined that further investigation into his mental state was necessary to properly defend him.
Dr. Michelle Ayala was hired to examine Chan. Despite some scheduling delays, she conducted the evaluation on October 24 and presented a detailed report on December 22. According to Dr. Ayala’s assessment, Chan suffers from acute delusional disorder, which led him to believe he was in a romantic relationship with the alleged victim, and that he was legally insane at the time of the offense.
This new defense could disrupt the trial timeline. Prosecutors quickly countered, labeling the motion as “untimely” since the deadline for pretrial motions was May 12, 2025. They claim allowing this last-minute defense could derail the scheduled trial.
In response, Chan’s attorneys argued the delay was due to circumstances beyond their control, specifically Dr. Ayala’s thorough examination process. They also pointed out that the deadline passed before Chan was formally indicted, making it impossible to meet earlier requirements. The court has now permitted prosecutors until January 6, 2026, to respond before deciding whether the trial date will change.
As previously reported, Sean Chan traveled from Scarborough, Ontario to Florida, where he was arrested by the FBI on June 3 for allegedly trespassing at Liv Morgan’s residence. He reportedly surrounded her home for hours, leaving notes with personal information and handling an air pellet gun on her balcony. WWE security detected his presence via surveillance footage, leading to his arrest and subsequent charges on June 25.
Chan has remained in federal custody since June, with all bail requests denied. If found guilty, he faces up to five years in prison.
The January 12 trial has been postponed due to the pending insanity defense. It remains uncertain whether the court will allow this new defense or adhere to the original schedule, making the case even more complex.
What’s your take? Should the court delay the trial to consider the insanity claim, or is it too late to change the timeline? Share your thoughts in the comments.
December 29, 2025, 3:19 PM
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Fan Take: This development is crucial for WWE fans because it underscores the real-life dangers and complexities behind such high-profile cases involving wrestlers. How the court handles this could set important legal precedents affecting the safety protocols and personal security measures within the wrestling industry.
