WWE - history and overview
The WWE, or World Wrestling Entertainment, is the largest and most well-known wrestling promotion in the world. It was founded in 1952 by Vincent J. McMahon and has since become a global phenomenon, broadcasting to over 150 countries and boasting a loyal fanbase that spans generations. The WWE is known for its larger-than-life characters, over-the-top storylines, and high-production values.
The company has gone through several changes over the years, from being a regional promotion to a national one, to becoming a publicly traded company. The WWE has produced some of the biggest stars in wrestling history, including Hulk Hogan, Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, and John Cena. Additionally, the WWE is known for its flagship events such as WrestleMania, SummerSlam, Survivor Series, and Royal Rumble.
The WWE's dominance in the wrestling industry has not gone without criticism, however. Many fans argue that the company has become too formulaic in its storytelling and that it prioritizes entertainment over in-ring action. Nonetheless, the WWE remains the go-to promotion for many wrestling fans around the world and continues to attract millions of viewers every week.
WWE - current landscape and major events
The WWE is currently split into two main brands: Raw and SmackDown. Raw airs on Monday nights while SmackDown airs on Friday nights. Additionally, the WWE has a developmental brand called NXT, which has become increasingly popular in recent years. The WWE also hosts several pay-per-view events throughout the year, including the aforementioned WrestleMania, Royal Rumble, SummerSlam, and Survivor Series.
In recent years, the WWE has faced competition from other wrestling promotions, most notably All Elite Wrestling (AEW). AEW was founded in 2018 by Tony Khan and has since become a major player in the wrestling industry. Many former WWE superstars, such as Chris Jericho and Jon Moxley (formerly known as Dean Ambrose), have joined AEW, and the promotion has garnered a reputation for its focus on in-ring action and storytelling.
AEW - the new kid on the block
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is a relatively new wrestling promotion, having only been founded in 2018. However, in that short time, it has become a major player in the wrestling industry. AEW was founded by Tony Khan, the son of billionaire Shahid Khan, and is backed by a group of investors that includes Shahid Khan and the Jacksonville Jaguars.
AEW has gained a reputation for its focus on in-ring action and storytelling, with many fans praising the promotion for its fresh approach to wrestling. The company has also placed an emphasis on fostering new talent, with several up-and-coming stars making a name for themselves in the promotion.
AEW has also made headlines for its signing of former WWE superstars, including Chris Jericho and Jon Moxley (formerly known as Dean Ambrose). Additionally, the promotion has hosted several major events, including All Out and Double or Nothing, which have received critical acclaim.
NJPW - the top wrestling promotion in Japan
New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) is the top wrestling promotion in Japan and has a loyal fanbase both in Japan and around the world. The promotion was founded in 1972 and has since become known for its technical wrestling and hard-hitting action.
NJPW has produced some of the biggest stars in wrestling history, including Antonio Inoki, Jushin Liger, and Kazuchika Okada. Additionally, the promotion is known for its flagship events such as Wrestle Kingdom, Dominion, and G1 Climax.
NJPW also has a working relationship with several other wrestling promotions around the world, including Ring of Honor and All Elite Wrestling. This has led to several cross-promotional events, which have been well-received by fans.
Impact Wrestling - the alternative to WWE
Impact Wrestling, formerly known as Total Nonstop Action (TNA), is an American wrestling promotion that offers an alternative to the WWE. The promotion was founded in 2002 and has since undergone several changes in ownership and branding.
Impact Wrestling has produced several notable stars, including AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, and Bobby Roode. Additionally, the promotion has hosted several major events, including Bound for Glory and Slammiversary.
In recent years, Impact Wrestling has also placed an emphasis on intergender wrestling, with several female wrestlers holding championships traditionally held by men. This has garnered praise from fans and critics alike.
Lucha Libre - the colorful world of Mexican wrestling
Lucha Libre is a style of wrestling that originated in Mexico and is known for its colorful masks, high-flying moves, and dramatic storytelling. The style has become popular around the world, with several promotions, including AAA and CMLL, offering their own take on Lucha Libre.
Lucha Libre has produced several notable stars, both in Mexico and around the world, including Rey Mysterio Jr., Eddie Guerrero, and Juventud Guerrera. Additionally, the style has become known for its use of death-defying moves, including dives from the top of the ring and acrobatic flips.
British wrestling - a rising force in the industry
British wrestling has undergone a resurgence in recent years, with several promotions, including Progress and ICW, becoming increasingly popular. British wrestling is known for its technical wrestling and hard-hitting action, with several stars, including Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate, making a name for themselves in WWE.
British wrestling has also become known for its unique venues and fanbase, with several events taking place in intimate settings such as bars and nightclubs. This has led to a more intimate atmosphere and a greater connection between fans and wrestlers.
Other notable wrestling promotions around the world
There are several other wrestling promotions around the world that are worth mentioning, including:
- AAA (Mexico)
- CMLL (Mexico)
- Dragon Gate (Japan)
- Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (USA)
- Ring of Honor (USA)
- Stardom (Japan)
- WCPW (UK)
These promotions offer their own unique take on wrestling and have gained loyal fanbases around the world.
How to watch wrestling leagues from around the globe
With so many wrestling leagues around the world, it can be difficult to know where to start. However, there are several ways to watch wrestling from around the globe, including:
- WWE Network: The WWE Network is a streaming service that offers live and on-demand content from the WWE and several other wrestling promotions.
- NJPW World: NJPW World is a streaming service that offers live and on-demand content from New Japan Pro-Wrestling.
- Fite TV: Fite TV is a streaming service that offers live and on-demand content from several wrestling promotions, including AEW and Impact Wrestling. - YouTube: Many wrestling promotions offer free matches and highlights on their YouTube channels.
Additionally, several cable and satellite providers offer pay-per-view events from wrestling promotions around the world.
