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Indie wrestling is facing fresh controversy following Edward Draven’s allegations against CIW promoter Javan Miller, also known as Michael Long. In response, Miller has stepped forward to present his side of the story.
Draven revealed that he had been hesitant to speak out about this issue for some time due to its sensitive nature, but ultimately felt the need to bring it to light. While his statements were assertive, Miller offered a different perspective.
Draven asserted that after being scheduled for two CIW events, Miller began making insinuating remarks regarding wrestlers he allegedly had affairs with. He also claimed that Miller discussed other wrestlers’ private lives and suggested they were using underhanded tactics to advance their careers, which Draven found distasteful. Furthermore, he alleged that Miller’s personal interests influenced match decisions.
When Draven chose to leave CIW, he claimed Miller told others that both he and another wrestler were departing due to lackluster performances. Draven contested this assertion, stating he left to safeguard his own reputation and raised concerns about Miller’s history.
Subsequently, Michael Long issued a statement to Ringside News, denying Draven’s narrative and seeking to set the record straight.
“I didn’t intend to take your time, but since Edward Draven has chosen to fabricate falsehoods, here are the facts he conveniently omitted.
Initially, during the booking, Draven and his opponent treated the match like an extended rehearsal, which frustrated the locker room. The individual who interrupted Draven’s match wasn’t an unknown assailant; he was a friend of Draven’s who had to cancel due to injury prior to the show. Draven was informed about this situation, as evidenced during the conclusion of the match. Our company thrives on storytelling, and we aimed to utilize this talent later on, hence the reservation made for him post-match—a concept Draven seems to misunderstand.
On the following night, during a four-way meeting, Draven was asked to speak simply due to his lack of reliability. It’s my oversight for not assessing his capabilities thoroughly before extending a favor. Draven himself admitted he had just three months of training before trying to make his own way, which explains a lot. In reality, the audience showed little concern for him, while the wrestlers I favored received a strong reaction.
Draven and his associates failed to grasp that we focus on storytelling in wrestling, not self-indulgent choreographed performances. Most of Edward’s complaints stem directly from his own inadequacy. There’s a reason his name was virtually unknown until now: he’s attempting to gain notoriety by tearing others down.
Regarding my past, yes, I have one, but it has nothing to do with being a predator. It simply involves having trusted someone who misrepresented their age online—no physical contact or meetings occurred. It’s just desperate for Draven to bring that up.
These are the facts, and the rest is Draven chasing the attention he previously lacked.”
Currently, the claims from both sides remain conflicting. No external investigation or confirmation has yet been made public, but we’ll continue to monitor developments.
Only time will reveal the next source of controversy in professional wrestling. The indie wrestling scene is filled with intriguing personalities, and it remains uncertain who will capture the spotlight next.
What are your thoughts on this latest wrestling controversy? Do you side with either narrative? Share your opinions in the comments!
December 12, 2025 3:14 p.m.
Fan Take: This story matters to wrestling fans as it underscores the complexities and controversies that often surround the industry, revealing how personal dynamics can affect professional careers. The resolution of this situation may not only impact those directly involved but also set a precedent for how future disputes are handled within the wrestling community.
