For Immediate Release
New York, NY – February 24, 2026
SHOOT Project Owner and CEO Josh Johnson, known professionally as the Real Deal, announced today the immediate termination of the organization's entire in-house security team and the reassignment of Head of Security Lou Grimaldi, effective immediately.
The decision follows a series of security failures during SHOOT Project: Zenith 012, including multiple unauthorized backstage altercations and the failure to prevent ringside interference during several high-profile matches.
"The events of Zenith 012 demonstrated a complete breakdown in our security protocols," Johnson stated. "When wrestlers are being attacked backstage without intervention, when our champions can't make it to the ring without incident, and when our security staff is either unable or unwilling to maintain order, changes must be made. I have zero tolerance for incompetence, and that performance was unacceptable."
Lou Grimaldi, who has served as SHOOT Project's Head of Security since 2024, has been reassigned to a facilities management role within the organization. The remainder of the security staff has been released from their contracts. SHOOT Project has entered into an exclusive agreement with AEGIS Security, a New York-based private security firm specializing in high-profile entertainment and sporting events. AEGIS will assume all security responsibilities for SHOOT Project events, including venue security, talent protection, and backstage access control, beginning with Reckoning Day on March 9th.
"AEGIS Security brings a level of professionalism and accountability that we require," Johnson continued. "Their personnel are trained specifically for the unique challenges of professional wrestling events. They will have clear rules of engagement, direct reporting lines to management, and most importantly, they will do their jobs without bias or hesitation."
AEGIS Security has provided security services for major sporting events, concerts, and entertainment venues throughout the northeastern United States. The company employs former law enforcement and military personnel trained in crowd management, VIP protection, and crisis intervention.
"We're honored to partner with SHOOT Project," said Marcus Webb, AEGIS Security's Director of Operations. "Our team understands the difference between maintaining order and becoming part of the show. We're here to protect the talent, protect the fans, and ensure that SHOOT Project events run smoothly and safely."
The new security protocols will be in full effect for SHOOT Project: Reckoning Day on March 9th at The Pinnacle.
When asked whether this change would impact the ongoing tensions between various SHOOT Project factions, Johnson was direct: "The wrestlers want to fight? Fine. They can fight in the ring, in sanctioned matches, where they're supposed to. But the days of backstage brawls going unchecked are over. AEGIS will maintain order, period."
About SHOOT Project: SHOOT Project is a premier professional wrestling promotion based in New York, featuring the world's top athletes competing for championship glory.
About AEGIS Security: AEGIS Security is a full-service security firm providing comprehensive protective services for entertainment venues, sporting events, and corporate clients throughout the northeastern United States.
Order Will Be Restored
AEGIS Security - Effective March 9th, 2026