EsportsNext 2024 just wrapped up in Chicago, with the Esports Trade Association bringing the curtain down on another successful event. From July 7 – 9, the ESTA hosted an esports-centric networking event and showcase, along with an awards ceremony and an induction event that saw Ian ‘Crimsix’ Porter brought into the ESTA Hall of Fame.
This stellar showcase went hand-in-hand with the news that the city’s mayor, Brandon Johnson, had declared July 7 ‘Esports Day in Chicago‘.
Fame Indeed
The ESTA works to spread awareness and raise support for the industry across North America. It aids those seeking career paths in the esports industry just as much as it hosts networking events to allow businesses to forge valuable relationships that could act as bedrocks in the developing foundation of the global esports ecosystem.
Last year, the ESTA inducted its first member into the Hall of Fame – Charles Conroy. With more than 18 years of experience working in the esports industry, Conroy was dubbed as playing ‘a pivotal role in the expansion and business development of several prominent gaming organisations.’
He’s now joined by Ian ‘Crimsix’ Porter, a superstar esports competitor who retired from the Call of Duty scene in 2022 and found a new passion in simracing. He has since moved on to track racing and drives for Rafa Racing Club – and he’s a shining talent on the road as much as he was on the sticks.
Crimsix is the winningest Call of Duty player of all time, boasting three world championship titles, thirty-nine ‘chips’, and tenure at some of the most prestigious esports organisations in the COD scene. He played at the top of his game for more than a decade, acting as a stalwart fountain of experience for newer players to lean on. If anyone deserves a spot in the ESTA Hall of Fame, it’s Ian Porter.
For more Insider Gaming Esports coverage, check out our esports events calendar for 2024
