The Ongoing Debate: Is Independent Wrestling Truly Dead?

The conversation surrounding professional wrestling on social media often involves debates about whether WWE or AEW is superior, complaints about how wrestlers are booked, or gripes about excessive commercials on TV. While these discussions continue, there has been increasing chatter about the supposed decline of independent wrestling.

The discussion gained momentum when Produce Wrestling and Absolute Intense Wrestling (AIW) announced year-end hiatuses for different reasons. Notably, Produce Wrestling has already scheduled a show for February 25th. This has sparked speculation about the health of independent wrestling.

OutKick Dropkick has highlighted several independent promotions this year, such as Pandemonium Pro Wrestling, Awesome Championship Wrestling, Gamechanger Wrestling, and Fight Factory Wrestling. In response to social media’s talk about the decline of independent wrestling, OutKick Dropkick attended Fight Factory’s “No Thanks Given” event in Middletown, New Jersey, to assess the situation. The event did not disappoint.

The show featured notable matches and appearances. Ben Bishop, who surprised audiences at TNA’s Bound for Glory pay-per-view, participated in an eight-person tag team match. Richard Holliday, Jack Vaughn, and Madisyn Maxwell faced off against the team MADE. Kristin Blaze defeated Rachel Ley, offering a glimpse into the future of women’s wrestling. Even WWE Hall of Famer Arn Anderson attended to support his sons against Sent 2 Salute.

The main event was a no holds barred match between TNA star KC Navarro and Steve Gibki for the openweight championship. Gibki won by spearing Navarro through a table and applying the Hell Hammer submission.

Held at the Middletown Sports Complex, the event drew a dedicated fan base despite being on an ice rink, the regular home of the North American Hockey League’s New Jersey Titans. The turnout demonstrated that independent wrestling remains vibrant.

OutKick Dropkick spoke with Ben Bishop about the perception of independent wrestling’s decline. Bishop refuted this, citing the strong attendance at Fight Factory. “This notion that indies are dead is just noise,” he stated. “It surfaces every few months. Indie wrestling is alive and well.”

Audience members, who could have chosen to watch WWE’s “Friday Night SmackDown” or engage in other activities, still came to support the event. This commitment to indie events suggests that, contrary to rumors, the independent scene is thriving.

Killer Kross, another professional wrestler, echoed Bishop’s sentiments. While he acknowledged his limited engagement with online debates, he argued that robust attendance at indie events undermines claims of a dying scene.

Many pro wrestlers not signed to major companies strive to deliver quality performances. They understand that not every venue will be massive, but their dedication ensures fans keep returning.

The idea that independent wrestling is dying lacks substance. The enthusiasm of fans and wrestlers alike proves the contrary.