Kairos Media, a social media focused digital communications agency, has announced the acquisition of esports organisation “Lightning Pandas” who will return to the esports fray after a three year hiatus.
Lightning Pandas was originally founded by Kairos Media co-founder Michael Craddock and Call of Duty professional Shane “ShAnE” McKerral, but has not been active in the scene since 2014. Back then, the team were a well-known Call of Duty squad who rose in popularity through YouTube and colourful branding.
Kairos Media has now acquired the organisation, and will use it as the company moves into the esports market. Kairos’ first move is the signing of Sean “Dragonn” Allen, a professional FIFA player to the roster on the day of release of FIFA 18.
Many will recognise Sean Allen, as he was West Ham United’s first FIFA player and runner up of the FIWC two years ago. This year he failed to qualify for the tournament but was involved in a coaching capacity, sharing the winning moments with Unilad’s eventual winner, Gorilla. There’s little doubt he’s one of the better known players in competitive FIFA with the scene still generally dominated by YouTube content, pack openings and less by competition-driven Twitch figures.
Rahul Uppal, Esports Manager at Kairos Media commented: “Following their three-year hiatus, we’re excited to announce the official return of the Lightning Pandas. While most people will recognise the Lightning Pandas as the creative offspring of Mike and Shane, we’re now in a strong position to take the organisation to the next level.
In addition to this, we’re delighted to welcome a player of Sean’s calibre to the Lightning Pandas, who does not only share the competitive ambitions of the company, but also our vision for the future.”
Sean Allen said: “I couldn’t be happier to join the Lightning Pandas and become their first esports player. The experience, resources and knowledge of the company presents me with an invaluable opportunity to progress as a player and build my online presence. This is a massive move in the right direction for me and I’m really excited for the future.”
Esports Insider says: Kairos Media are making their move into esports and have started it off with a big name in the FIFA scene. They’re definitely one to keep an eye on as they evidently have lofty ambitions in the esports space.
