Kroenke Sports & Entertainment Guts Esports Division

Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE) has initiated a significant restructuring of its esports division, The Guard, resulting in the layoff of a majority of its staff. The cuts, which include executive-level positions, were confirmed in February 2023 through reports from affected employees. This downsizing marks a major contraction for the organization, which had previously established a dedicated esports facility near SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles following the division's launch in November 2021.

Despite the widespread layoffs, the company’s professional teams—the Overwatch League’s L.A. Gladiators and the Call of Duty League’s L.A. Guerrillas—will remain operational for the immediate future. These teams are currently being maintained until the conclusion of their respective league seasons or until a buyer can be secured for the franchises. If no acquisition occurs, the teams face potential closure.

The situation highlights the volatility within the professional esports sector, as many of the affected staff had only recently been hired or relocated to Los Angeles following previous industry layoffs. Reports indicate that the organization has provided minimal support or guidance to the displaced workforce. KSE, a major sports and entertainment conglomerate with a portfolio including the Los Angeles Rams and Arsenal F.C., has not yet provided further details regarding the long-term future of its remaining esports assets.