Progress wrestling have released a second statement regarding Paul Robinson. Progress have come under fan criticism recently regarding their recent come back show and involvement of current Progress Proteus champion Paul Robinson. Firstly they were accused of not responding to the questions over Paul Robinson’s involvement with the show, Robinson was named during the speaking out movement having been accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a 16 year old girl.
On Monday the 22nd Progress Wrestling released at statement, in which they admitted that Paul Robinson had worked as an agent backstage for Chapters 104 – 108. Progress would also state that they do not normally release names of back stage workers and that all talent were aware of who was working on the show and no issues had been raised. Many fans criticised the statement accusing Progress of putting the blame onto the performers and not taking any responsibility, some fans did defend the company though, noting that they may not have been aware of the incident.
Earlier today Progress Wrestling released a 2nd statement regarding this matter, in the statement they admit to knowing about Paul Robinson’s indiscretion and believed that he proved no threat to talent or Staff. The Statement would also read that Paul Robinson has decided to leave Progress Wrestling of his volition.
Statement released by Progress Wrestling below;
Update 25th February 2021
Our communication over the last number of days has not been good enough and we’re sorry.
In the statements of the 20th and 22nd of February, we shared the talent feedback about their experiences at the tapings, specifically regarding safeguarding measures put in place, COVID safety precautions, and the overall work environment.
The purpose of the statement on the 22nd of February was to address Paul Robinson. We were wrong to include the feedback of talent on the general work environment in this statement. It was not the correct time nor place, and we would like to take this opportunity to unreservedly apologise to the talent and crew for including them in the statement. PROGRESS are wholly responsible for their own staffing decisions.
Moving forward there will be a group made up of talent and crew, who will be able to review any non-promotional communications that mention talent or crew. This group will be independent of company management and administrative staff.
SAFEGUARDING
Our safeguarding procedures can be found here.
PAUL ROBINSON
We are aware of a number of posts on social media in regards to PROGRESS’ decision to have Paul Robinson at the tapings.
In regards to Paul Robinson, no disclosures were made to PROGRESS about his conduct following a post on the social media platform, Twitter, originally shared on 22 June 2020 at 11:30 am (UK Time). A review took place by the Lead Safeguarding Officer, and findings were given to members of PROGRESS management, who were also made aware of the information posted online.
In light of this, conversations were had with Paul Robinson and it was determined that he did not present a risk to talent and staff. As a result, a decision was made to move ahead with the measures in place and contact talent and personnel in readiness for production.
In our 22 February update, we confirmed Paul Robinson’s involvement in the production and requested that if anyone had any information, to contact us at [email protected]. To date, no disclosures have been made and no further information has been presented to us externally or internally.
As of 25 February, Paul Robinson has decided to part ways with PROGRESS.
COMMUNICATIONS GOING FORWARD
With this announcement, we would like to take the opportunity to say that it is not, has never been, and never will be our intention to stick our heads in the sand and ignore you, the fans and members of the public.
We must be responsible when making statements about matters that involve other people. We must make sure that due care is given to the needs, security, and rights of the human beings involved.
If anyone has any further information or wishes to make safeguarding disclosures, please submit these to the new dedicated inbox [email protected]. Any and all communication will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Our goal is to create the most entertaining pro wrestling product that we can. We will continue to strive to make our industry safer and more professional and to do right by fans and talent.
Thank you for reading.
Progress Wrestling Chapter 105 is due to air this Saturday at 8pm GMT and will be available to watch on the WWE Network and Demand Progress. It is questionable whether or not this situation will effect their viewing figures, given that Paul Robinson is now known to be involved as an agent.
You can Follow Andrew More on Twitter @GBOtaku82
Check out our official store at PRO WRESTLING TEES, show us your support and buy a shirt. You can visit our store by clicking here.
Make sure to follow us on Twitter @BodySlamNet and on Instagram @BodySlamDotNet
Also check us out on Facebook and give us a like and share by clicking HERE.</pue
