More About Me

Since the, "About Me" section of this blog is limited to a specific amount of characters, I decided to write a post that discusses more about what I have done in the pro-wrestling industry, beginning with when I first started in it and leading up to now.

Technically, I started back in the 1990s, contributing to, "Pro Wrestling Illustrated" and then, "Pro Wrestling Torch". In 1997, I contributed to The Official Website of the NWO. That same year, I briefly published my own newsletter, "The Wrestling Express".

In 1998, I taught myself how to design websites, and served as a consultant for various independent promotions. That next year, I worked as a website designer/maintainer for Dylan Summers (Necro Butcher) who was running the Texas-based Power Pro Wrestling Federation, and later was involved with Texas Outlaw Promotions.

During the period of 2000-2002, I was involved in many different projects at once. I was working as a website designer/publicist for talent, contributing to WCW.com, writing columns for independent promotions and the website of former WCW star The Stro, and writing for a variety of pro-wrestling media sites (including WrestlingObserver.com and PWTorch.com). In 2003, I began running my own website, World Wrestling Optimum, which consisted of news, articles, and interviews.

In 2004, I started working for the Michigan-based Ultimate Championship Wrestling as a publicist/columnist. They were an affiliate of American Wrestling Association Superstars Of Wrestling, and I soon became the publicist/columnist of the main governing body of AWA as well. During my time working for UCW, I played a major role in bringing in new talent, due to over the years my having had come into contact with many talents being underused and going unnoticed in the industry. Also, attendance increased by a significant amount.

In 2005, I started doing a column for 3PW. With DVDs sold nationwide, they had the potential to become much bigger than they already were at the time, and were very open to my ideas. I pushed for many changes behind-the-scenes. I had encouraged management to improve the production quality of their DVDs, which led to them dealing with a different production company. 3PW management had planned on waiting for its fan base to increase before getting TV for 3PW. I explained how getting TV for 3PW is what would increase its fan base, and I was then given the green light to find networks that were interested. Two networks were very interested, and I encouraged 3PW management to meet with them as soon as possible. Unfortunately, the owner of the company instead opted to shut 3PW down, due to losing interest. Working for 3PW put me in connection with the UK-based 1PW, who I worked as a columnist for.

After 3PW shut down, I began working as a publicist for independent promotions, including CHIKARA. I also worked as a columnist for CZW. Interestingly though, it was 2006 at this point yet I was still most recognized for the work that I had done for 3PW and AWA/UCW.

In 2007 I started working as a columnist for XCW, a promotion that was seen nationally on MAVTV, had a national DVD deal, and also had PPV events. Working for a promotion of national status was my biggest achievement at that point, and two years later I reached a bigger achievement- Big Japan Pro-Wrestling. Along with working for them as a columnist and an Administrator for their Facebook page, I helped bring Big Japan Pro-Wrestling together with Combat Zone Wrestling to form a working relationship after a previous working relationship between the two promotions had fallen apart. This new working relationship led to Big Japan Pro-Wrestling having its first event in the United States.

In October 2009 I assisted publicity & promotions company MGM Management with the HULKAMANIA- Let the Battle Begin tour by distributing their press release to pro-wrestling news sites that are popular with Australian fans, and conducting an interview with Solofa Fatu Jr. (better known as, "Rikishi"). Also, in 2012 I wrote a number of columns for Women Superstars United.

In May 2018 I did social media for Great North Wrestling.

In April and May 2021, I did blogging and social media for Kyushu Pro Wrestling. During that time, the promotion gained 220 new subscribers and 52,746 new views on its official YouTube channel.

Recently, I have done blogging and social media for Yanagase Pro Wrestling. Since the time I began writing for them, Yanagase Pro Wrestling has their anniversary events at a venue where they have had 300 fans. All previous Yanagase Pro Wrestling events took place at a 50-seat venue.

I have also recently written for the China-based Middle Kingdom Wrestling in a Publicist capacity. My work is an essential piece in the multilingual activation, with it being adapted to traditional Chinese for readers in China. I am the first native English writer who has written for a Chinese wrestling organization in history.

In 2019 I began writing for Michinoku Pro Wrestling, in charge of international wrestling. Since the time that I began writing for them, Michinoku Pro stopped choosing Shin-Kiba 1st Ring for its Tokyo events and began focusing on the much larger Korakuen Hall for its Tokyo appearances. The Korakuen Hall is known as a place where many historical moments in the Japanese pro-wrestling scene have occurred. It's to Japan what Madison Square Garden is to the pro-wrestling scene in the United States. Michinoku Pro had a sellout, standing-room-only event on December 13, 2019 at the Korakuen Hall. The event had an attendance of 1,890. That was the highest reported attendance at the Korakuen Hall to date for a pro-wrestling event since April 2015.

I am open to new writing opportunities, from event previews & results reports to wrestler spotlights & social media. I offer sponsored content and an international audience. This blog is now included in Google News, which has over 11 million visits every day, giving your product the opportunity to be promoted in front of millions. Check out my samples and see how I can take your brand to the next level:
https://harold-williams.com/2012/05/samples-of-my-work.html


info@harold-williams.com

Google has created a knowledge panel about me and my work: https://g.co/kgs/x4pMxp1

If you run a small wrestling promotion or wrestling news website and are looking to take your content to the next level in an affordable way- I am offering affordable rates starting at $110 / ¥16,000 per blog post/article.

I graduated from university with a major in Business and a minor in Computer Applications, which makes me an asset not only as a writer but in a business and technological capacity as well.

I am also a Technology Writer specializing in AI, VR, AR, NFTs, 5G, Web3, streaming, and the metaverse in the context of wrestling-and a subject matter expert in the business side of Japan's MMA scene, soccer scene, and other sports.

Exploring the Differences Between Strong Style and Lucha Libre

Professional wrestling features a diverse range of styles, traditions, and philosophies. Two of the most distinct and influential styles are strong style, popularized by Japanese wrestling, and lucha libre, the high-flying Mexican tradition. While both aim to entertain, their approaches to in-ring action, character presentation, and cultural significance differ notably.

Strong style, as presented by wrestlers like Kazuchika Okada and Shinsuke Nakamura, at its core, emphasizes intensity. It's a physically demanding style, identified by stiff strikes and a focus on submissions. Matches often have a more serious feel, with wrestlers showcasing their toughness and resilience. The emphasis is on the struggle, the fight, and the demonstration of technical skills. Victory is earned through spirit, determination, and the ability to withstand punishment. On the other hand, lucha libre, with iconic figures like Rey Mysterio and Mistico, embraces a spectacular approach. Aerial maneuvers and colorful masks are trademarks of this style. While lucha libre is athletic, the emphasis is on spectacle, excitement, and the captivating display of high-flying artistry.

Perhaps the most fundamental element of lucha libre is the mask, representing not only the wrestler's character but also a deeper symbolic meaning. Masks can represent a heroic persona or a dark, villainous side. The mask becomes an extension of the wrestler, a symbol of their identity and their connection to the fans. In lucha libre, the mask is considered more than a costume; it's a sacred object. The loss of a mask in a "Mask vs. Mask" match is considered the ultimate humiliation, a symbolic removal of the wrestler's identity and honor. This tradition has created some of the most dramatic moments in lucha libre history. Meanwhile, masks are not a central element of strong style, although there are masked wrestlers in puroresu, as a result of the influence of lucha libre in Japan.

Strong style often focuses on the competitive aspect of wrestling, with wrestlers battling for pride, respect, and championship glory. While character development is important, it often takes a backseat to the in-ring action. On the other hand, lucha libre is more character-based, due to matches between luchadores representing good versus evil.

Strong style and Lucha libre are generally considered sports in their countries of origin. However, in lucha libre, it is more so viewed as a cultural expression in Mexico, deeply established in national identity. While strong style is primarily considered a sport in Japan, the intense physicality and unwavering courage displayed by its specialists have also grown a strong sense of national pride within the wrestling world. The image of the strong Japanese wrestler symbolizing fighting spirit has become a cultural cornerstone for many.

In conclusion, strong style and lucha libre represent two distinct approaches to professional wrestling. Strong style highlights power and technical expertise, while lucha libre embraces performance, agility, and the story of hero versus villain. While their approaches differ, both styles contribute to the industry, offering fans a diverse range of entertainment.

The Ace of Aces: The Enduring Legacy of Hiroshi Tanahashi

Hiroshi Tanahashi is a symbol of perseverance, athleticism, and dedication to the professional wrestling industry. More than just a wrestler, he has become an icon and remarkable talent who has been at the forefront of NJPW during very important times, cementing his place as one of the most respected wrestlers in Japan. Tanahashi's legacy extends beyond championships and distinctions; he has also displayed leadership qualities, which he continues to do to this day.

Hiroshi Tanahashi's career began in 1999, and he quickly stood out with amazing energy, incredible technical skills, and charisma. Tanahashi's matches captivated audiences, creating a deep connection with them. He was a true showman, possessing the ability to draw the crowd in and make them emotionally invested in his every move.

It was when Hiroshi Tanahashi defeated his former mentor Keiji Muto at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom III in 2009 for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship that Tanahashi became the Ace of the company, the wrestler who NJPW was built around. This was more than a title; it was a responsibility. Muto, a legend in the industry, passed the torch to Tanahashi, and he embraced this role, consistently delivering top-level performances and carrying the company. Tanahashi became the face of NJPW, a representation of its commitment to high-quality professional wrestling.

Hiroshi Tanahashi's in-ring style is a blend of technical wrestling and high-flying maneuvers. He's an expert of the fundamentals, so Tanahashi has many holds at his disposal. However, he's also a risk-taker, willing to soar through the air with dives and aerial moves. Tanahashi's matches are a showcase of his versatility.



Beyond Hiroshi Tanahashi's athleticism, his presence commands attention in the ring. Tanahashi is more than a wrestler; he's a performer, capable of captivating crowds with his expressions and mannerisms telling the story of a match as they reveal his state of mind, emotional control, and general performance. Tanahashi's body language shows the impact of an opponent's offense and the weariness of an exhausting match. Fans know exactly how he's feeling during a match, because he shows it instead of hiding it, which adds drama to the action.

Hiroshi Tanahashi's impact on NJPW is endless. He was involved in rebuilding the company's popularity, leading it through a period of growth and establishing it as one of the top wrestling companies in the world. Tanahashi became the standard-bearer for NJPW, a representative of its commitment to quality and its unique brand of professional wrestling. Trained by NJPW and with the company for his entire career, Tanahashi is one of NJPW's most popular wrestlers, and has held the IWGP Heavyweight Championship a total of eight times, which is more times than any wrestler in NJPW’s history. During Tanahashi’s fifth reign, he held the championship for 404 days, the third-longest reign in the company’s history.

And in December 2023, Hiroshi Tanahashi was appointed as President and Representative Director of NJPW.

Hiroshi Tanahashi's legacy extends beyond NJPW as well. He has become a praised figure in the global wrestling community, admired for his skill, his professionalism, and his dedication to the industry. Tanahashi is a role model for aspiring wrestlers, due to the power of his hard work and perseverance.

In a significant announcement at King of Pro-Wrestling 2024, Hiroshi Tanahashi revealed that 2025 will be his final year as an active professional wrestler, with his retirement match scheduled for Wrestle Kingdom 20 on January 4, 2026. While this marks the end of an era in the ring, Tanahashi's legacy will continue as he remains the President and Representative Director of NJPW, a role in which his leadership and extensive experience will be beneficial in guiding the company's future.

Hiroshi Tanahashi's career is a story of the capability of one individual to shape the landscape of professional wrestling. Along with being the Ace of NJPW, he's an icon, a legend, and a wrestler whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of performers and fans alike. Tanahashi's impact on the professional wrestling industry is long-lasting, and his contributions will always be remembered.

The History of Wrestling in South Carolina

The state of South Carolina has played a significant role in shaping the pro-wrestling industry. The state has produced many figures who are well known today, such as Paul Wight, Shelton Benjamin, and Trick Williams. It's the birthplace of wrestlers who are considered legends of the business, including the longest-reigning NWA World Women's Champion in history, The Fabulous Moolah, the extremely popular Mr. Wrestling II, and the charismatic Rufus R. Jones. While the wrestling scene of neighboring North Carolina often overshadowed the scenes of other states due to being home to one of the most important wrestling promotions, Jim Crockett Promotions, which later became World Championship Wrestling, the South Carolina wrestling scene has its own unique story to tell and a legacy that continues to influence wrestling today.

The first pro wrestling event on record took place in 1932 in Greenville, South Carolina. One wrestler featured on the card of this independent event was Gus Sonnenberg, who was a former holder of the AWA World Heavyweight Championship and World Heavyweight Championship. Not only was he a standout due to his championship reigns, but Sonnenberg was also one of the early crossover athletes in wrestling history, previously playing in the NFL from 1923 until 1930.

Wrestling returned to South Carolina in 1940 via Eastern States Championship Wrestling (ESCW), promoted by Jim Crockett Sr.- this was the original name of what is best known as Jim Crockett Promotions/WCW. The promotion was founded in the bordering North Carolina nine years earlier, now branching further out in the South Atlantic states area after drawing impressive crowds in North Carolina and Virginia in the 1930s.

ESCW introduced South Carolinians to wrestlers when they were early in their careers and before they found championship success, such as Ben Morgan, who later became NWA Idaho Heavyweight Champion; Ellis Bashara, who later became an NWA Texas Tag Team Champion; and most notably, Wally Ward, who later became known as the legendary Buddy Rogers, the first WWE Champion in history.

In 1948, the NWA was formed, acting in the role of a governing body for regional wrestling promotions. ESCW joined the NWA in 1950, and changed its name to Jim Crockett Promotions (JCP) in 1952. JCP proved to be a valuable representative of the organization in South Carolina, drawing as many as 3,000 fans to an auditorium in the state. This was considered a very big crowd for a wrestling show in the 1950s, when large South Carolina auditoriums generally had a seating capacity of around 3,400 seats.

A home venue for JCP in South Carolina was Township Auditorium in Columbia. It is a historic building that was built in 1930 and is considered the first multi-purpose facility or showplace in the Carolinas.

After JCP and Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling (the brand name that JCP began using in South Carolina in 1973) events were the only wrestling shows taking place in the state for many years, that changed in 1984, when the AWA, the Memphis-based Continental Wrestling Association (CWA), and Championship Wrestling From Georgia (CWG) all came onto the scene. The nationwide wrestling boom of the 1980s had arrived, with WWE being the dominant company. In an attempt to be strong competition for WWE, the owners of the four promotions joined forces to create Pro Wrestling USA, which had TV tapings in South Carolina and other states. Although the promotion's television program was syndicated nationally, Pro Wrestling USA was active for only two years, due to internal conflicts and WWE's growing dominance.

In 1985, JCP began having "NWA World Wide Wrestling" tapings in South Carolina. This program made its debut in the 1970s, broadcasting North Carolina wrestling action on television nationally- JCP was such a major presence on national television, many fans thought JCP was the NWA, instead of a member of the governing body.

This was the beginning of wrestling matches that took place in South Carolina being able to be seen by millions of people around the world, via shows that continued to be broadcast by JCP (which became known as WCW by the end of the decade). Also, in 1988, WWE hosted a non-televised event at the Township Auditorium in Columbia.

In January 1990, the North American Wrestling Association (which then became South Atlantic Pro Wrestling months later) made its debut as the first South Carolina-based promotion in history. One of SAPW's founders was George Scott, who had previously been a matchmaker in JCP during the 1970s, and later in WWE during the early 1980s.

Due to SAPW operating at a loss during its first six months in business, George Scott lost around $600,000, leading to his retirement from the pro-wrestling industry. Former NWA United States Heavyweight Champion Paul Jones and former WCCW matchmaker Frank Dusek took over the promotion, and the smart business move of getting SAPW on America One Network was made, giving the promotion national exposure. SAPW was sold to promoter Greg Price in 1992, and the promotion's final event took place in August of that year. Along with Paul Jones, notable wrestlers who are a part of SAPW's alumni are Vince Torelli (who later became known by his real name, Ken Shamrock), Chris Chavis (who later became known as Tatanka), Manny Ferndandez, and Robert Fuller (who later became known as Col. Robert Parker).

In recent years, the wrestling scene in South Carolina has been very active, with many independent promotions operating throughout the state, offering a diverse range of wrestling styles and experiences. Wrestlers from all over the country make their way to South Carolina to compete in front of passionate fans. Also, South Carolina-based promotions are a platform for local wrestlers to showcase their skills and entertain. These promotions include Action Packed Wrestling, WrestleForce, Old School Championship Wrestling, 3Count Pro Wrestling, Pro Wrestling Turbo, and Explosive Pro Wrestling.

With 90% of South Carolina residents living in a household with internet, and the average person using the internet for six hours and 38 minutes every day, I hope to see promotions there publicized as effectively as possible. If they are, the promotions will grow even more in visibility, show attendance, and streaming consumption, showing more fans both within and outside of South Carolina what the state offers. The South Carolina wrestling fans are passionate and supportive of their local promotions, which consistently develop talent and improve quality. If the right people are involved, the South Carolina wrestling scene will move up to an even higher level.

A History of Wrestling Managers

For many years in professional wrestling, it was very common to see a figure lurking at ringside during a match, who might also be known for pulling strings backstage, who cuts promos for wrestlers, and might also mastermind havoc: the wrestling manager. More than an ally at ringside, managers have played an important role in the history of professional wrestling, acting as mouthpieces, strategists, and sometimes, even instigators of mayhem.

The role of the wrestling manager can be traced back to the 1900s. Promoters and matchmakers saw value in having a charismatic figure to represent and promote wrestlers. These early managers often served as spokespeople, hyping up their clients to the audience. They were the original "mouthpieces", using their verbal skills to build anticipation for upcoming matches and establish their wrestlers as tough competitors.

As wrestling evolved, so did the role of the manager. They became more than spokespeople; they began involving themselves in matches, adding layers of drama and intrigue. There were now ringside managers being rulebreakers, using dirty tactics to help their clients win. However, there were also managers who were fan favorites, providing guidance and support to their wrestlers. In addition, there were managers who were masters of manipulation, playing mind games with opponents, interfering in matches, and sometimes even being attacked by their client's opponent. In general,the manager is a marketable character who, idealistically, is a draw.

Originally, the main purpose of the manager was to support his client- for example, to speak for them (if the manager could cut a better promo than the wrestler) or interfering in a match on his client's behalf. The bottom line was that the manager should not overshadow his client. However, some of the most famous managers in wrestling history, like Paul Heyman, Bobby Heenan, and Jim Cornette elevated the role of manager, to the extent that fans often paid more attention to them than their clients.

In Paul Heyman's case, he elevated the role of manager to the extent that in 1991 he became the leader of his own faction, the Dangerous Alliance, with the goal of destroying WCW, brick by brick. The alliance consisted of standout talents- WCW United States Heavyweight Champion Rick Rude, Madusa, Arn Anderson, Larry Zbyszko, WCW World Television Champion Steve Austin, and Bobby Eaton.



The evolution of the wrestling manager also saw the arrival of a different type of manager- the valet, a female companion who added glamour and spectacle to the wrestlers' entrances. Classic examples include Miss Elizabeth, Woman, and Lady Blossom.

There also have been cases where people have transitioned into ringside manager roles without initially being presented as managers. Two examples are Luna Vachon, who made her debut in WWE as wrestler but later became ringside manager of Bam Bam Bigelow and Bull Nakano; and Bruce Prichard, who made his debut in the GWF as an announcer but later also become a prominent GWF heel in the company as the manager of GWF North American Champion The Dark Patriot and ally of Scott Anthony and GWF Light Heavyweight Champion Barry Horowitz.

In addition, there is a type of manager that is not involved in the entertainment side of the pro-wrestling industry, instead focusing on the business side. More commonly referred to as, "agents" these days, they play a major role in representing wrestlers and handling various aspects of their professional lives. This kind of manager falls under the talent management and relations umbrella on the business side of wrestling, which I go into detail in my ebook, "The Business Side of Wrestling: A Look Behind the Curtain".

Today, while the traditional role of the manager may be seen much less in most pro-wrestling promotions, there is a noteworthy number of them in Women Of Wrestling. There are four prominent, consistently featured managers in the promotion, which is a higher number than what's typically seen in many other major promotions now. WOW is clearly making a conscious effort to include managers as a significant part of their presentation, and it gives the product a classic wrestling feel as well as provides support for the wrestlers in matches and their character development. The managers are seasoned veteran Abilene Maverick, the fifth-longest-reigning WOW Champion in history, Lana Star, the mystical Siren The Voodoo Doll, the IQ Superior, Samantha Smart, the world's greatest attorney, Sophia Lopez, and the Queen of Chaos, Angelica Dante. Along with being managers, Siren and Smart also step into the ring as wrestlers.

Managers represent a rich history of character development, performance, and the art of promotion. From the early mouthpieces to the modern-day strategists, wrestling managers have played an important role in shaping the landscape of professional wrestling, adding a unique and often disorderly dimension to the squared circle. They are the underrated heroes and villains of the wrestling world, the masterminds behind the mayhem, and a key part of the wrestling business.

A Look at Masked Wrestlers in Puroresu

Masked wrestlers are figures of mystery, intrigue, and generally, very athletic. From the colorful luchadores of Mexico to the masked grapplers of Japan and beyond, masked wrestlers have captivated audiences for generations, adding a unique dimension to the world of professional wrestling. Behind the mask lies a rich history, a blend of tradition, symbolism, and the creation of some of wrestling's most famous and lasting characters.

The tradition of masked wrestling has its roots in lucha libre, the high-flying style of wrestling that originated in Mexico. Masks are a fundamental part of lucha libre culture, representing not only the wrestler's character but also a deeper symbolic meaning. Masks can represent a heroic persona or a dark, villainous side. The mask becomes an extension of the wrestler, a symbol of their identity and their connection to the fans.

In lucha libre, the mask is considered more than a costume; it's a sacred object. The loss of a mask in a "Mask vs. Mask" match is considered the ultimate humiliation, a symbolic removal of the wrestler's identity and honor. This tradition has created some of the most dramatic moments in lucha libre history.

The popularity of lucha libre and its masked wrestlers spread beyond Mexico, influencing wrestling styles around the world. There is a very notable influence of lucha libre in Japan. Along with its wrestling style, masked wrestlers became a prominent part of the Japanese wrestling scene. Talents such as El Desperado, Ultimo Dragon, Starlight Kid, BUSHI, and The Great Sasuke became superstars, showcasing abilities that kept the attention of audiences, their masks making them stand out even more.

However, while the influence of lucha libre in Japan is strong, not all mask-wearing Japanese wrestling superstars were influenced by lucha libre, with a number of them having a mask that originated from pop culture. For example, Jushin Thunder Liger's character was created based on an anime (Japan-produced animated show), and the Tiger Mask character was inspired by a manga (Japan-produced comic book) character of the same name.

Beyond individual superstar wrestlers, entire promotions in Japan have embraced the mask-wearing tradition. For example, Michinoku Pro regularly has events that feature masked wrestlers, such as The Great Sasuke, Rasse & Ringo Yamaya (who won the Tohoku Tag Team Championship last year), the highly successful tag team of Yapper Man 1 & Yapper Man 2, and OSO11. Also, Michinoku Pro is the home of the Fukumen World League, the company's singles tournament that involves masked wrestlers from around the world, including Mexico. Last year's winner of the Fukumen World League tournament was El Pantera Jr., who went on to make additional history in November 2024 by winning the Tohoku Junior Heavyweight Championship. When the year came to a close, both active championships in Michinoku Pro were held by masked wrestlers.

Another promotion in Japan with a significant number of masked wrestlers is Yanagase Pro Wrestling. Its roster includes Lowther, Yanagase Kamen Fuerza, El Aquage, M's Man, Macho Gallows, and Cookie.

The appeal of masked wrestlers extends beyond their in-ring skills. The mask adds an element of secrecy, allowing wrestlers to create characters and develop complex backstories, or have no story at all, adding to their intrigue. Also, the anonymity of wearing a mask allows wrestlers to experiment with different personas, reinventing themselves without being tied to their previous identities.

The most notable masked Japanese wrestlers- Jushin Thunder Liger, Ultimo Dragon, Tiger Mask, and The Great Sasuke- have become cultural icons in puroresu, similar to how Rey Mysterio and Mistico are cultural icons in lucha libre. With their masks being instantly recognizable symbols, they represent their wrestling ability, distinctive style, and charisma.

Displaying colorful and symbolic hoods, masked wrestlers have added a unique and captivating dimension to professional wrestling. They represent a rich tradition, and a blend of athleticism and the creation of lasting characters. Behind the mask lies mystery and intrigue, which continues to draw wrestling fans around the globe.

A New Era for Ohio Valley Wrestling: Examining the Morley Sports Management Acquisition

This week, Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) announced via press release that Morley Sports Management Limited (MSM), the owners and operators of Welsh professional soccer club Haverfordwest County, will take a majority stake in the wrestling promotion, effective May 1, 2025. OVW is based in Louisville, Kentucky. It was founded in 1993 by Nightmare Danny Davis and first became a notable promotion by helping to develop wrestlers from 2000 to 2008 who became superstars, such as CM Punk, John Cena, Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, Brock Lesnar, Batista, Mickie James, and Beth Phoenix. Today, OVW continues to be a source of the future stars of the industry, a legacy that has been thoroughly upheld in recent years under the guidance of Al Snow.

This news comes four years after author, attorney, businessman, investor, and radio host (Kentucky Sports Radio) Matt Jones purchased OVW in 2021, adding his unique perspective to the product. Jones will remain involved with OVW, retaining a minority equity position and acting as an advisor to MSM and its board. This suggests a blend of new management with an understanding of OVW's recent course and local connections.

So, what does this acquisition by a sports management group with roots in European football mean for OVW, and beyond that, the wrestling industry in general? The press release highlights MSM's success in developing Haverfordwest County, including participation in UEFA competitions and a focus on community engagement and media production (podcasts and a documentary). This shows that MSM brings an additional layer of business understanding and a potential new vision for OVW, one that might extend beyond producing wrestling events. They also have experience in building a sports brand, developing community support, and leveraging media to tell their story- this no doubt will help MSM market the OVW brand to new audiences.

Furthermore, the acquisition opens up interesting possibilities for cross-promotional activities and content collaboration. Could we see joint marketing campaigns leveraging the fan bases of both OVW and Haverfordwest County? Perhaps even collaborative content that explores the parallels between the drama and athleticism of professional wrestling and the passion of European football? These kinds of cross-platform strategies are becoming increasingly common in the broader entertainment industry, and MSM's experience managing a soccer club could provide a unique point of view for OVW's future content and marketing efforts.

The continued involvement of Matt Jones is also noteworthy. His familiarity with OVW and his Kentucky roots likely provide a valuable bridge between the new ownership and the promotion's existing fanbase and traditions. Jones' role as an advisor could ensure an extent of continuity while allowing MSM to fulfill their broader strategies.

One of the key questions moving forward will be how MSM intends to leverage OVW's past as a development territory. Will they look into forming a partnership with a major promotion? Will MSM's experience in developing athletes in a different athletic endeavor provide new insights into scouting and training wrestling talent?

In addition, MSM's background in media production could lead to an increased focus on OVW's digital footprint. We might see an expansion in high-quality video content and potentially even a dedicated streaming platform or expanded social media engagement.

As someone who follows the independent wrestling scene and the pathways to major promotions, I think this development is groundbreaking. The resources and strategic vision of a sports management group like MSM can give OVW a stronger foundation and support to help elevate its image and possibly become a bigger part of the wrestling industry. The blend of MSM's broad sports business experience with Matt Jones's OVW experience and local knowledge creates an exciting situation. The next few months leading up to and following the May 1st transition will no doubt offer clues about the intriguing future that lies ahead for Ohio Valley Wrestling.