GCW and IWTV have reached a settlement.
In June 2021, Independent Wrestling TV sued Game Changer Wrestling due to a breach of contract. The contract in question names IWTV as the distributor of GCW events. In the lawsuit, IWTV has claimed damages in excess of $500,000.
The lawsuit noted that Game Changer Wrestling proceeded to have a total of 36 pay-per-view events between December 5 and May 15, that “were a violation of the signed distribution agreement between the parties.” IWTV also claimed to have informed GCW that they were breaching their contract but despite that, the events continue to occur.
In August 2021, GCW filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit.
On April 20, GCW released a statement announcing that the two sides have reached a settlement.
From GCW:
Game Changer Wrestling is pleased to announce that we have comes to terms on a settlement agreement with IWTV that brings an end to litigation between the parties.
This agreement represents a significant milestone for GCW, but most importantly serves as a victory for INDEPENDENT Wrestling and its fans.
This agreement also affirms our long held belief that GCW is the SOLE OWNER of our extended library, which includes all Game Changer Wrestling, Jersey Championship Wrestling and LA Fights events.
This is important not just for GCW, but for independent wrestling promotions across the United States and abroad as we all navigate the ever changing landscape of professional wrestling.
Further, this agreement removes obstacles that had previously limited our ability to capitalize on our content and clears the way for us to move forward with ambitious plans to "change the game" in 2022 and beyond.
Most importantly, this settlement allows us to focus all of our efforts and resources on what matters… producing and delivering the best product possible for our rapidly growing and global fanbase
Finally, while this agreement defines a conclusion to our relationship with ITV, it doesn't mean it's the last time you will see GCW on the platform. As part of this arrangement, GCW will provide IWTV with "The Settlement Series", a series of 8 live events spanning the course of the next year. We look forward to announcing dates and details on these events in the coming weeks.
This last year has been trying. As a small business, our resources are not unlimited. Litigation was a last resort, but a necessary step in establishing our independence. At the end of the day, we thrive in the arena, and our resources are best directed towards the ring…. not the courtroom.
Enduring this process would NOT have been possible without the support of our crew, our performers, and most importantly.. the fans. Your loyalty has been unwavering and together, we have continued to make history and take both Game Changer Wrestling and independent wrestling to new heights.
We have reached a settlement in our lawsuit with IWTV.
— GameChangerWrestling (@GCWrestling_) April 20, 2022
This is a major step forward for GCW.
Thank you to everyone who has stood by and supported us throughout this process. pic.twitter.com/OieHhrYlbD
IWTV also issued a statement on the matter shortly after.
IWTV is pleased to announce that it has reached agreement with Game Changer Wrestling.
— IWTV (@indiewrestling) April 20, 2022
PS - Here's what's streaming live this weekend https://t.co/yB5gt26Eu7 pic.twitter.com/RbaTbaqzS3
Fightful Select has more details regarding the settlement.
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