3. Monkey Gate
Like Michinoku Pro-Wrestling in the 1990s, Dragon Gate became a cult favourite because of its lucharesu (Japanese/Mexican hybrid) style and whacky characters. Originally called Toryumon, the promotion was founded by former WCW and WWE star Ultimo Dragon before it was taken over by top star CIMA. Dragon Gate rose in popularity during the 2000s. At the height of its popularity, however, came a scandal that rocked the promotion and lead to the expulsion of one of its wrestlers. Dragon Gate wrestlers keep blogs that can be accessed via the company's official website. Unlike WWE, these are non-kayfabed and are not moderated. Essentially, the wrestlers are allowed to post what they want. Concern grew when Dragon Gate rookie RYOMA began posting pictures that appeared to show the abuse of a monkey that lived at the dojo. The monkey, a macaque named Kora, had lived in the dojo for around a decade before the pictures were posted. RYOMA had started a blog detailing the abuse from the monkey's perspective (including posting graphic pictures) and, when Dragon Gate officials found out about it, they immediately closed it. But the word was out and the damage had been done. Fans were disgusted at the abuse, which included choking, burning and punching the monkey amongst other shameful acts (such as getting her drunk on Sake). RYOMA was fired from the promotion and others who had been involved in the abuse were forced to issue an apology and shave their heads as punishment, as well as being fined heavily. Thankfully, Kora was transferred to a foster home and there were no more reported incidences of abuse.