PROGRESS announced some major leadership and management changes after the company found itself right in the middle of controversy regarding the Speaking Out movement that is sweeping the wrestling world.
PROGRESS announced on their website today the removal of Glen (Joseph) Robinson and Matt Richards from the company and revealed that James Amner, Vickie Haskins, Michael Oku and Lucy Cave will all be taking charge in leadership positions. Haskins was one of the first to share her story, doing so back on June 18. PROGRESS’ announcement reads as follows:
Structural Changes At PROGRESS
When it comes to PROGRESS, huge change is needed, and huge change has begun.
Therefore, we would like to introduce the new management team:
James Amner possesses a wealth of experience in artist and event management, in both sports and music. He has been involved in wrestling for over five years and has previously been responsible for PROGRESS events internationally. He will now be overseeing PROGRESS and all of its activities.
Vicky Haskins, whose 16-year career in wrestling includes working in PR, with media, as an interviewer, valet/manager, in merchandising, ring announcing and as backstage liaison, will be joining the new management team.
Michael Oku, one of the brightest future stars, both in and out of the ring, is part of the new team to make sure that a platform to perform is there for all talent.
Lucy Cave will be assisting with this new set up.
Our media team and event production team remain the same.
Glen Robinson and Matt Richards will be stepping away from PROGRESS.
Jon Briley is dealing with a major health issue and, as a result, will also be stepping back.
There won’t be a show for a while, but we will be taking this time to ensure that PROGRESS is a safe space for talent and fans alike. Our priority is to make the wrestling industry the best that it can possibly be.
PROGRESS will not tolerate:
Discriminative behaviour
Verbal abuse
Sexual abuse
Domestic abuse
Emotional abuse
Grooming of an adolescent
Cyber bullying/bullying
Online abuse
Psychological abuse
Financial/material abuse
Abuse of power
Physical abuse
Economic abuse
Using privilege
Intimidation Threats
Shame dumping
Racism
Sexism
Transphobia
Homophobia
Or any behaviours that put performers, production or fans at risk.
It’s very early days for us, as you would imagine, and while we won’t have all the answers straight away, we will be asking the right questions. We welcome your input, too.
James Amner: “ I want a safe space for wrestlers to compete in, and to be safe backstage and travelling to and from events. I want crew to be protected at all times. I want fans to be able to enjoy themselves with only good people around them. People will be on hand to talk to, always.”
Vicky Haskins: “ It’s obvious from recent events that the wrestling industry isn’t as safe a place as we thought it was. I’ve been in the business sixteen years, working in a number of roles whether it be as a performer or backstage, and have experienced some of the inexcusable behaviour that has come to light recently. Quite simply, that will not be tolerated. We need to implement structure, we need to prioritise safety of our fans, performers and staff. It’s of the upmost importance that we provide not only the finest entertainment, but a welcoming environment that is safe for everybody who comes through our doors – fans and wrestlers alike. I’m looking forward to working at PROGRESS, helping in whatever way I can to shape this industry for the better.”
Michael Oku: “Our industry needs a deep clean – from top to bottom. Before it’s legal and ethical to run shows in this country again, I want to make sure that major promotions, in this case PROGRESS, have done everything possible to ensure that a safer and fairer environment for all has been created.“
Lucy Cave: “With the trauma that has transpired in Independent Wrestling, nearly all of the brave people that have come forward have asked for a safe place to return. We want to do everything in our power to make sure this is a reality, learning from failings in the past.”
We look forward to the future
Vicky, Michael, James and Lucy.
This announcement all comes after the promotion fired David Starr and suspended other talent such as Jordan Devlin & Travis Banks due to abuse allegations made their way.
Haskins also provided further comment on Twitter stating, “Things need to change in order to move forward. It’s the upmost importance to provide EVERYONE with a safe environment to perform, work and watch our shows. Here’s to a bright future!”
https://twitter.com/VickyHaskins/status/1275042267343044608
