Major League Wrestling has lost another longtime member of its team, and this time it’s someone who played a major role in keeping the company’s live events running. Mike Kitlas, who served as MLW’s Senior Director of Live Events, has departed the promotion after seven years.
According to PWInsider, Kitlas has left MLW to take a new position with Real American Freestyle. His departure ends a run with the company that began in 2019, during which he became an important part of its live event operations.
Kitlas wasn’t just someone working behind a desk, either. He was heavily involved in nearly every aspect of MLW’s live event business, helping oversee the work that goes into putting on shows at venues across the country.
Before joining MLW, Kitlas also worked for Madison Square Garden, giving him extensive experience in live event operations before becoming part of the wrestling promotion.
It was noted that Kitlas was extremely well-liked within MLW and had developed a reputation for being one of the first people to arrive at a venue and one of the last to leave. His responsibilities extended throughout the live events department, making him a familiar presence behind the scenes. His next stop will be Real American Freestyle, where he’ll continue working in the combat sports industry. Details about his specific responsibilities with the organization have not been disclosed.
Kitlas’ departure also comes as MLW is dealing with another exit. Emmy-winning actor Paul Walter Hauser recently announced that he had parted ways with the promotion over creative differences, although the circumstances surrounding the two departures are different.
Losing someone who spent seven years involved in practically every aspect of live event operations is certainly a significant change for MLW. While Kitlas is moving on to another opportunity, the company will now have to move forward without one of the longtime figures responsible for helping bring its shows together.
What do you think about Mike Kitlas leaving MLW for Real American Freestyle after seven years with the company? Let us know your thoughts and feedback in the comments below.
