Kraken Pro Wrestling: building a community  

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ABAC students get rowdy during the match. | PHOTO | HUNTER HOLTON

Kraken Pro Wrestling is bringing entertainment and energy to the city of Tifton. While fans young and old gather to watch an electrifying sports event, many don’t realize what really takes place behind the scenes to bring Kraken Pro Wrestling to life. 

Kraken Pro Wrestling’s promoter, Samuel Skaggs, describes the extensive work that goes into hosting a match. “Usually, from a month out, we have plans throughout the year for the directions we want to go, and we assign the people we feel can execute those plans and do them correctly.” 

Skaggs explains that when assigning his team to various roles, he places them where they will excel. “Whether it be how they work with the athletes or how well they can promote themselves, we make sure to give opportunities to those people,” he says. “And for the people who aren’t as strong in certain areas, we help them evolve into that star. Whether that’s in the ring, backstage, or during the overall presentation.” This approach gives anyone a chance to be part of something bigger. 

Kraken Pro’s vision extends far beyond wrestling; it’s about building and strengthening the community. Many Tifton community members, including ABAC students, often say there is nothing to do in the area. “I hear that all the time,” says Skaggs. 

“But Tifton has a lot.” Skaggs explains that his goal is to offer something that gets families and friends out for two hours to enjoy an experience that allows them to forget the world and watch something amazing. “With the show itself, I just want to build that atmosphere of people coming back, building community, and loving the show.” 

More than 200 audience members packed Chino and Letty’s Place to see the Kraken Pro Wrestling team’s hard work. From community members to ABAC students, new fans to longtime supporters, there was something for everyone to enjoy. 

ABAC student Camden Durham shared his thoughts on the event. “This was my first time attending a Kraken Pro Wrestling event, but I’ve attended multiple WWE events.” Durham went on to describe his favorite part of the night: “My favorite moment was how the wrestlers could work the crowd. They did a great job. They are all extremely talented. Every single one of them!” 

Though this was Durham’s first Kraken Pro event, he expressed excitement about what the organization could bring to Tifton. “I think professional wrestling as a whole is something people write off because it’scalled fake or scripted, but to me, professional wrestling is something that can unite a whole group of people. Especially those who are really involved in it. It’s an art form as much as it is a sport.” 

Many members of the community see how much effort is being put into Kraken Pro Wrestling and enjoy attending matches often. 

“My favorite part is when they come out with the music blaring and they get everyone hyped up, y’know? I just love the environment over here. The fans are really into it,” says community member, Mason Benson. 

Another community member, Scott Burch, sees how the city of Tifton is rediscovering sports entertainment and how the community is coming together because of it. “We all band together. It’s kinda like a family over here,” Burch says with a laugh, “And who doesn’t enjoy watching someone get punched in the face, let’s be real.” 

Even through the headaches and hassles, the Kraken Pro team puts their hearts and souls into everything they do, always striving to provide the best entertainment for the community of Tifton and their fans. 

If you’re interested in becoming a member of the team, attending a wrestling event, or keeping up to date with all things Kraken Pro Wrestling, make sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram @krakenprowrestling. 

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