Court Bauer Comments On MLW Contracts Amid Talent Defections

Major League Wrestling CEO Court Bauer has commented on the state of MLW contracts.

It’s no secret that the market for independent wrestling talent is heating up. WWE, New Japan, Ring of Honor, All Elite Wrestling, Impact and MLW are all working aggressively to bolster their rosters. The shifting landscape has dealt MLW a few setbacks in recent months. Former MLW World Champion Shane Strickland is rumored to be WWE bound, while Ring of Honor has signed MLW regulars RUSH, PCO and Brody King.

In light of MLW losing a few talented guys to ROH, a fan on Twitter asked Bauer about the state of MLW contracts. User @RulezGoldberg says he finds it difficult to invest in MLW storylines without knowing if the wrestlers he’s following will be around long-term.

Bauer addressed RUSH, Brody King and PCO’s departures and provided some insight about MLW’s “open borders” philosophy towards wrestler contracts.

Our contracts are all legally binding. Rush, Brody and PCO were never under deals. Our contracts allow talent to do TV for all non-WWE companies. Why? We want them to get work. If they get more exposure, they win/fans win/promoters win.

— Court Bauer (@courtbauer) January 21, 2019

In the year-plus since the relaunch of Major League Wrestling, the promotion’s has demonstrated resiliency as they continue building a loyal audience. Similar to ROH refreshing its roster to offset the losses of The Young Bucks, Cody Rhodes and Hangman Page, MLW has also been bringing in fresh faces. New (and returning) performers to be featured at upcoming MLW shows include Ace Austin, Mance Warner, Gringo Loco, Rey Horus and Aero Star.