Financial Mismanagement and Unkept Promises
Ultra Pro Wrestling (UPW) has faced persistent financial issues, with developers spending funds on unapproved models (e.g., Rob Van Dam) while key contributors went unpaid. Despite backers’ support, no playable build has been released, and the game’s release date has repeatedly been postponed. Vallely, the project’s leader, argued that spending on RVD’s model would entice him to sign with UPW, but RVD never agreed. Contributors expressed frustration over the lack of direction and frequent changes in priorities.
Failed Partnerships and Internal Conflicts
UPW’s attempts to pivot to white-label deals with WWE and AEW collapsed. In 2024, a Netflix executive proposed using UPW’s engine for a WWE mobile game, but the deal fell through. Similarly, a 2026 pitch for a Fight Forever sequel with AEW failed after the executive overseeing video game development left the company. Internal disputes arose over whether to quietly remove D-Von Dudley from the game after he signed with WWE, with Vallely arguing against it to avoid appearing untrustworthy.
Transparency and Dismissals
Vallely claimed transparency by sharing a Netflix/WWE pitch video with Patreon subscribers, though he omitted details about the deals. In 2025, he dismissed his COO, Gimbles, citing a lack of experience and revoking his title. Pay disputes and conflicting priorities further eroded team morale. Vallely also faced questions about unaddressed issues, including unfulfilled promises to backers and the status of 50 championship belts promised in 2023.
Unanswered Questions and Lingering Concerns
Key concerns remain unresolved: the lack of updates on the trademark application, the absence of the promised championship belts, and the ongoing silence from UPW about its future. Vallely has not provided the disputed budget documents or the deleted podcast he claimed showed transparency. With no playable build in sight, backers continue to wait for a resolution, while the project’s credibility faces increasing scrutiny.
