Dark Sheik has confirmed she walked out of Game Changer Wrestling (GCW) following the promotion’s decision to bring in former NXT referee Drake Wuertz. The performer, who had been a regular with the promotion from 2021 until earlier this year, publicly addressed her departure on social media on October 4, 2026.
Dark Sheik’s Departure Over Wuertz’s Return
The decision to bring Wuertz into GCW occurred during the promotion’s Homecoming event in mid-August. The following night, he competed in a deathmatch and issued an apology to the live crowd for his past actions and public statements.
Following his return bout at Homecoming night two, Wuertz has not competed for the promotion again.
Brett Lauderdale’s Defense of the Booking
GCW owner Brett Lauderdale addressed the internal and fan-based backlash regarding the booking.
Lauderdale characterized Wuertz as genuinely contrite but acknowledged that the burden of proof remains on the performer. The promoter noted that Wuertz has significant work to do to demonstrate a genuine change in character and admitted that if he is proven wrong, he will accept responsibility for the decision to bring him back.
The Comparison to Joseph Sawyer’s Injury Status
In her public statement regarding the walkout, Dark Sheik drew a parallel between the promotion’s handling of Wuertz and their treatment of contracted talent. She wrote, “when they brought in drake and I was the only one who walked out, im pretty sure I became the last outlaw. But if a signed guy took a week off for injury. now its ‘We’re all gcw.’”
This comment serves as a direct reference to recent criticism from wrestler Atticus Cogar, who publicly challenged GCW Champion Joseph Sawyer for missing scheduled events due to injury. Dark Sheik has not appeared for the promotion since April, while Wuertz has remained inactive following his brief return in August.
Common Questions Regarding the GCW Controversy
Why did Dark Sheik leave GCW?
Dark Sheik confirmed she walked out of the promotion because they brought in Drake Wuertz, whose history of controversial public comments—including support for QAnon and opposition to mask mandates—clashed with her values.
What was Brett Lauderdale’s response to the backlash?
Lauderdale stated that his decision was based on a personal history where Wuertz helped him through addiction issues. He acknowledged the criticism and stated that if Wuertz fails to show genuine change, he will admit the decision was a mistake.
When did Drake Wuertz last compete for GCW?
Wuertz appeared during the Homecoming event in mid-August, participating in a deathmatch on the second night. He has not competed for the promotion since that appearance.
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