About WSL

World Sports Live presents The Silverback Challenge

Constantin Preda, Executive Producer

Gaslight Pictures (IMDB) | Constantin Preda, a first-generation US American of Russian-Romanian descent, began his filmmaking career after discovering his passion at age 10. He attended the University of Central Florida’s film school, winning a 1998 Kodak Film Grant for his thesis film “Salt” and started as a production assistant before graduating.

Since then, Preda has worked in diverse roles including Series Producer, Field Producer, Assistant Director, and Editor for networks like Nickelodeon, MTV, VH1, CMT, Discovery, HGTV, and Animal Planet on shows such as Hogan Knows Best, My Big Redneck Wedding, House Hunters, and Naked and Afraid. He has also directed and produced national commercials for brands like Sears and Michelob Ultra, assistant directed music videos, and taught film and sciences at Full Sail University and Walt Disney World’s Youth Educational Series. He has published poetry and articles in outlets like The Orlando Sentinel.

Sam Butler, CEO

Sam Butler is a former competitive bodybuilder, certified health coach, and seasoned event producer with over a decade of experience in the fitness and entertainment industries. As the CEO of World Sports Live, Sam has produced and hosted large-scale fitness expos, transformation events, and community-driven wellness challenges across the country.

Most recently, Sam created and is executive producing the “Silverback Challenge,” a groundbreaking reality TV series that follows police officers through a 90-day transformation, blending elite training, mental resilience, and community leadership. His mission is to spotlight powerful stories of perseverance while building platforms that merge fitness, media, and social impact.

Passionate about helping individuals unlock their highest potential, Sam continues to develop dynamic productions that inspire action, elevate health, and promote positive change.

Devin Hansen, Co-Producer

Devin Hansen is a versatile creator, strategist, and entrepreneur with a passion for storytelling and innovation. A former journalist and published author, Devin wrote Guts: The Lane Evans Story, earning critical acclaim and national media appearances for its compelling, non-partisan exploration of politics and Parkinson’s disease. His career spans writing, digital marketing, web development, project management, and live-stream production, with experience working for major clients like JP Morgan, AOL, Citibank, and American Greetings, where he drove creative content and marketing initiatives.

As an entrepreneur, Devin founded and sold 5mile.digital, launched the Brew and View cinema and Rocket Theater, and consulted on a million-dollar music venue. He now leads TKOTIX, a live-streaming and ticketing platform for pay-per-view events nationwide. With expertise in live event production and digital solutions, Devin blends creativity, strategy, and execution to build brands and shape the future of online content, always pursuing new opportunities with a keen eye for innovation.

Matthew Bates, Chief Account Executive

Matthew Bates brings over 20 years of expertise in radio, TV (broadcast and cable), digital advertising, and out-of-home (OOH) sales to his role as Chief Account Executive for the Silverback Challenge. Known for his exceptional sales skills, Matthew focuses on delivering tailored advertising solutions for the event.

In 2024, Matthew’s outstanding performance earned him the Presidents Club honor, recognizing him as a top Account Executive. His extensive experience in building mutually beneficial partnerships has driven successful advertising campaigns for the event, maximizing impact and engagement.

Heather Armiak

Heather Armiak is a seasoned fitness trainer, influencer, and NPC Bikini competitor with over a decade of experience in the health and wellness industry. She has served as the Marketing Director and Talent Recruiter for World Sports Expo for more than 10 years, helping grow the brand’s national presence. Heather is currently leading production efforts for The Silverback Challenge, bringing her expertise in fitness, media, and event coordination to the forefront of this high-impact reality series.

[email protected]

Sam Butler, CEO

407-288-4788

Devin Hansen, Mgr.

309-428-3635