Anthem Sports & Entertainment Inc., the parent company of Impact Wrestling, revealed today that it is restructuring its management team. However, Scott D’Amore has been promoted to President of Impact Wrestling.
Here is the official announcement:
RICHARD SCHAEFER NAMED PRESIDENT OF ANTHEM SPORTS GROUP
Scott D’Amore Elevated to President of IMPACT Wrestling
Lou D’Angeli Appointed Vice President of Marketing
Mike Pine’s Talon Partnerships Engaged as Strategic Advisors for Brand Partnerships
Anthem Sports & Entertainment Inc., a global media company, announced that veteran combat sports executive Richard Schaefer will be the President of its sports properties, now organized under Anthem Sports Group Inc. (ASG). This includes the renowned IMPACT Wrestling, the pioneering all-female MMA organization Invicta Fighting Championships, and Fight Network, a leading 24/7 combat sports channel.
Schaefer, with over two decades in combat sports and boxing, will oversee ASG and drive strategic partnerships with sponsors, brands, agents, and athletes. His hiring underscores Anthem’s commitment to elevating its events and broadcasts globally. Under Schaefer’s leadership, ASG plans to pursue more acquisitions in combat sports and professional wrestling, utilizing Schaefer’s extensive boxing promotion experience.
“Richard Schaefer is a powerhouse in the combat sports and boxing industries,” stated Leonard Asper, Anthem President and CEO. “His integrity and expertise, developed over more than 20 years with top brands and fighters, make him a valuable addition to our executive team. We are excited to reach new heights under his leadership as President of Anthem Sports Group.”
Schaefer expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I am thrilled to join Anthem and ASG. Working with Len Asper, Ed Nordholm, Scott D’Amore, and Shannon Knapp, we will create a global destination for top talent and exciting content across combat sports. Our combined assets will generate new synergies with distribution platforms, sponsors, venues, and fan engagement.”
Schaefer’s successful career includes his tenure as CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, promoting iconic stars like Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Canelo Alvarez, and organizing over 527 events. His expertise in generating record-breaking revenues will be pivotal for ASG.
Anthem has also bolstered its leadership with Scott D’Amore as President of IMPACT Wrestling, highlighting its growth strategy. D’Amore and Shannon Knapp, President of Invicta FC, will report to Schaefer.
“Since 2018, Scott has revitalized IMPACT Wrestling, making it a premier wrestling promotion,” noted Ed Nordholm, Anthem’s Chief Corporate Officer.
Additionally, former WWE and Cirque du Soleil executive Lou D’Angeli joins ASG as Vice President of Marketing, overseeing marketing, advertising, promotion, and public relations.
D’Angeli’s extensive experience includes his role as Vice President of Marketing for Cirque du Soleil and Director of Marketing for WWE, where he developed national advertising strategies and fan events.
“In a few months, Lou has seriously increased awareness and attendance at IMPACT Wrestling and Invicta FC events,” continued Nordholm. “His expertise is already paying off.”
Mike Pine & Talon Partnerships have also been retained as Strategic Advisors, focusing on securing sponsorships and new revenue initiatives for IMPACT Wrestling and Invicta FC, while also supporting Anthem’s entertainment offerings.
“Mike’s vast knowledge and innovative ideas align with our mission,” added Nordholm. “We are confident that our talented team under Schaefer’s leadership will expand our combat sports offerings, catering to enthusiasts worldwide.”