Philadelphia-based independent promotion Chikara was founded in 2002. The promotion was known for colorful characters, long storylines, a lucha-influenced style, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
That last one is particularly ironic now, as founder Mike Quackenbush (real name Michael Spillane) has announced the company is “discontinued” after he and other prominent talents were mentioned in multiple #SpeakingOut stories which painted a picture of an abusive environment behind the scenes at Chikara.
Spillane also says he will be stepping down as the head trainer at Wrestle Factory, the school he founded in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
— Mike Quackenbush (@MikeQuackenbush) June 24, 2020
Over the years, Chikara featured talents like Cesaro, Sami Zayn, Kevin Owens, Chris Hero, Brodie Lee, and Sarah Amato.
Now it’s no more. And while that sucks, it’s hard to see it as a bad thing.