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Indie professional wrestling is grappling once again with the tough issue of who will remain in the industry. This time, the focus is on promoter Javan Miller, who has been accused of predatory conduct by indie wrestler Edward Draven.
Draven spoke out on Twitter about his unsettling experience while working with Miller’s promotion, CIW, explaining his decision to break his silence despite the emotional challenges stemming from his past trauma.
“I was really hesitant to share this because I tend to avoid these topics due to my past experiences. However, recent events have pushed me to speak up, and I believe it’s crucial to voice my concerns.”
Initially, Miller had booked Draven for two shows after observing a public challenge on Twitter, which thrilled Draven as it would allow him to wrestle alongside a long-time friend. However, the situation quickly escalated into something troubling.
“Javan Miller, known also as Michael Long, booked me for two CIW shows after Jay Karma tweeted expressing a desire to wrestle me. I was excited about it, but things took a turn when Michael began discussing one of the wrestlers he was reportedly involved with.”
Draven noted that Miller’s conduct became increasingly inappropriate and disrespectful, involving behind-the-scenes gossip, derogatory comments about other wrestlers, and unprofessional booking choices.
“He spread false rumors about various wrestlers and suggested they were receiving preferential treatment for promotions while disparaging those who could not attend events.”
Draven highlighted how the match was structured in favor of the wrestler Miller was allegedly pursuing.
“On the second day, he told Jay and me, ‘Don’t do too much in the match to outdo your boyfriend.’ Additionally, I faced another wrestler he was trying to influence… I traveled all the way from Georgia to Ohio.”
After the incident, Draven decided to cut all ties with Miller and CIW, only to later overhear that Miller was misrepresenting the situation to others in the locker room. He referred to Miller as repugnant.
“Afterward, Michael told other talent that the reason I and the other wrestlers weren’t brought back was that we were ‘trash,’ when in fact I was defending myself against the creeps.”
The most disturbing aspect? Draven stated that Miller is a registered sex offender with a history of stealing from the industry, raising serious concerns about the implications of his actions.
“He’s a registered sex offender and has been known to take advantage of this business. Enough is enough. We must speak out to prevent further incidents from happening.”
Similar stories are not unusual in professional wrestling, but each voice that comes forward pushes the industry toward greater accountability and better protection for performers.
Do you believe indie wrestling promotions are doing enough to safeguard talent? Is a stronger vetting process for promoters needed? Share your views in the comments; your voice is important.
December 11, 2025 7:26am
Fan Take: This news highlights a critical concern in wrestling, emphasizing the need for heightened accountability within the indie scene. For fans, it’s essential to ensure that the industry remains a safe and respectful environment for all performers, as their well-being directly impacts the quality of the sport we love.
