EXCLUSIVE: Major League Wrestling has appointed Emmy-winning actor and wrestler Paul Walter as Executive Producer. In addition, MLW has signed with Walter’s management company, Artists First, for representation with the goal of securing television and streaming distribution deals as well as brand licensing partnerships.
Since its 2002 launch, MLW has had its events and other programming carried by smaller streaming platforms and pay sports channels and available on its YouTube channel. Its difficulties securing a major TV/streaming distributor led to a lawsuit against the biggest wrestling player, WWE, for interference, which was settled.
As Executive Producer, Hauser will play a major role in shaping the creative and business direction of MLW as well as boosting its promotional reach across media platforms and driving new content initiatives.
“I’ve been a lifelong fan of professional wrestling, and MLW represents everything I love about the sport— hard-hitting action, compelling characters, and innovative storytelling,” Hauser said. “I’m thrilled to join MLW as an Executive Producer and look forward to working alongside the team to bring fans the best possible experience.”
Hauser transitioned from Hollywood to professional wrestling in what he called “the reverse Dwayne Johnson,” referring to the Rock’s move from wrestling to acting. Hauser made his pro wrestling debut in 2023, and he has been with the MLW ever since while also continue acting.
“Bringing Paul Walter Hauser on board as Executive Producer and teaming up with Artists First marks a major milestone for MLW,” said Court Bauer, MLW Founder and CEO. “Paul’s passion and creative insight, combined with the industry-leading expertise of Artists First, will propel MLW to new heights and expand our presence across multiple platforms.”
Hauser won an Emmy and a Golden Globe for his performances in Apple TV+’s Black Bird. He recently starred in The Instigators and voiced roles in Inside Out 2 and Orion and the Dark. Upcoming projects include The Luckiest Man in America (IFC Films), The Fantastic Four (Marvel Studios), The Naked Gun (Paramount Pictures), Americana (Lionsgate), Balls Up (Amazon/Skydance), Deliver Me From Nowhere (20th Century Studios) and The Chris Farley Show (New Line Cinema).
