In a landmark announcement, Pro Wrestling: EVE officially entered a Code of Conduct agreement with Equity UK. This will offer its performers a trade union for the first time, which is a much-needed advancement in professional wrestling.

According to the official press release:

EVE – Riots Grrl of Wrestling is pleased to announce that we have agreed to a Code of Conduct for the engagement of performers with Equity UK. Equity is the trade union for professional performers. We understand this Code is the first of its kind.

The Code of Conduct sets out EVE’s terms and conditions in writing, provides union recognition, a Dignity at Work policy as well as giving access and time for talent to engage with the union. The Code of Conduct is a culmination of talks that began over eighteen months ago between EVE and Equity UK.

We believe there are clear benefits for talent to be part of the union, including accident insurance for talent injured at work, as well as public liability and backstage insurance. Union membership also provides confidential legal advice and support, even when talent is working for promoters who do not recognize the union. Equity Members have access to representation in contractual disputes as well as getting help with tax and welfare guidance.

In continuing our commitment to the performers, we at EVE will subsidize the membership subscription of any artist booked on our show for that given month.

This is huge news for the UK-based indie promotion. Pro Wrestling: EVE has proudly been at the forefront of an upswell of progressive improvements in wrestling since its development in 2013. It’s no surprise that they are the first to offer their performers a union.

Proper on-site insurance and comprehensive legal representation are unheard of in pro wrestling. Hopefully, this announcement will inspire more promotions to offer their workers the same benefits.