Xpress Wrestling’s Future Uncertain Amid Scandal and Backlash
Xpress Wrestling, formerly known as PWX, is facing controversy after wrestler Jeremy Kobert, known as Jayce Karr, publicly accused longtime promoter Jim Miller of fostering a toxic work environment.
Karr announced his departure from the promotion after seven months, citing discrimination, harassment, and unsafe working conditions. Though he initially had low expectations, Karr said he became invested in improving the company’s reputation and creating a safer locker room for all talent, especially women and LGBTQ+ performers.
He praised bookers Brian Anthony and Timothy Titan for their efforts to reform the promotion, but said those efforts were repeatedly undermined by Miller and his financial partner, known as “Horsepower.” Karr accused Miller of making homophobic, racist, and transphobic remarks and described a recent altercation involving female talent as the “last straw.” He called Miller “a cancer to the Pittsburgh wrestling community” and urged others to unite in removing him, citing decades of ongoing problems.
As part of his Facebook post, Karr shared private text message exchanges between Miller, Titan, Anthony, and others. The texts detail an incident in which Miller allegedly entered or attempted to enter the women’s locker room after being told not to.
One of the individuals present, who was acting as a liaison to help ensure the safety and well-being of female talent, said that women backstage felt unsafe due to Miller’s presence.
Miller denied wrongdoing but used offensive language, referring to a transgender wrestler as a “gay guy” and a “half man.”
Titan and others reported multiple women felt unsafe enough to refuse titles, revealing a pattern of disrespect and boundary violations.
In response to Karr’s statements, Miller posted two lengthy defenses on Facebook. He denied any physical assault or misconduct and characterized the backlash as unfair criticism from disgruntled individuals. Miller took a veiled jab at Karr’s sobriety, prompting Karr to clarify publicly that he has been sober for nearly a year.
Miller announced the end of Xpress Wrestling’s “historical storytelling,” widely interpreted as ceasing promotion events, and revealed plans to focus on wrestling training classes, boxing instruction, and podcasting. He positioned himself as a promoter attempting to provide opportunities despite criticism and financial difficulties.
The announcement suggests Xpress Wrestling is effectively shutting down live wrestling events. While Miller may continue related activities such as training and media production, the promotion’s live event operations appear to be ending amid controversy and financial strain.
Karr’s post and shared texts triggered widespread reactions from wrestlers, staff, and fans. Many shared experiences of harassment, discrimination, and hostile working conditions at Xpress Wrestling. Vocal support emerged for transgender talent Paris Sahara and others who were targeted. Several wrestlers and promoters publicly disavowed working with Miller, and the hashtag #EndPWX gained traction as a call for accountability and change.
This controversy is not isolated. In 2019, veteran wrestler Kelly Klein, known for her work in Ring of Honor and various independent promotions, publicly called out Miller by name when she explained her reasons for leaving PWX. Klein cited discomfort with ownership’s treatment of talent and urged wrestlers, especially young women, to stand against harassment and disrespect, emphasizing the importance of protecting boundaries and valuing oneself.
The public conflict between Karr and Miller has brought longstanding problems within Xpress Wrestling into sharp focus, leading to calls for meaningful reform or an end to Miller’s influence in the local wrestling scene.
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