The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of One Pro Wrestling (1PW)

I. Introduction

• Brief overview of 1PW as a significant entity in British wrestling.
• Importance of 1PW in the UK’s wrestling scene.
• Preview of the article’s coverage: formation, key events, controversies, and the current state.

II. The Formation of 1PW

• A. The Origins (2005)
  • Introduction to Steven Gauntley, the founder of 1PW.
  • Motivation behind starting a new wrestling promotion in the UK.
  • Announcement of the first show and the vision for 1PW.
• B. The Inaugural Event: “A Cruel Twist of Fate”
  • Date and location: October 1, 2005, at the Doncaster Dome.
  • Key matches and wrestlers featured (e.g., AJ Styles, Christopher Daniels, Abyss, etc.).
  • Audience reception and initial success.

III. The Golden Era of 1PW

• A. Growing Popularity and Major Events (2005-2007)
  • Success of early shows and growing fan base.
  • High-profile matches and international talent (e.g., Samoa Joe, Steve Corino).
  • Introduction of the 1PW Heavyweight Championship.
• B. Expansion and Challenges
  • Increasing competition and the pressure to sustain growth.
  • Relationships with other wrestling promotions.
  • Financial strains beginning to surface.

IV. Scandals and Controversies

• A. The Financial Troubles (2007-2008)
  • First signs of financial instability.
  • Missed payments to wrestlers and staff.
  • Public backlash and diminishing trust among talent and fans.
• B. Management Issues and Power Struggles
  • Internal disputes and changes in management.
  • Impact of these issues on the quality of shows and talent relationships.
  • The departure of key personnel.
• C. The Collapse and Initial Closure (2008)
  • Details on the financial collapse.
  • The final show before closure.
  • Reactions from the wrestling community and fans.

V. The Rebirth of 1PW

• A. Attempts at Revival (2010-2011)
  • Efforts to resurrect the brand after its closure.
  • New management and changes in business strategy.
  • Limited success and eventual decline again.
• B. The 2022 Re-launch
  • Announcement of the relaunch in 2022.
  • New leadership and vision.
  • First show back: “A New Twist of Fate”.
  • Reception by fans and the wrestling community.
  • Current state and future prospects.

VI. Legacy and Impact of 1PW

• A. Influence on British Wrestling
  • Contributions to the growth of the UK wrestling scene.
  • The legacy left by the original 1PW roster and matches.
• B. Lessons Learned from 1PW’s History
  • Financial management in wrestling promotions.
  • Importance of transparency and trust in business.
  • How 1PW’s story reflects broader trends in independent wrestling.

VII. Conclusion

• Recap of 1PW’s journey from its inception to its current state.
• The enduring appeal and significance of 1PW in the wrestling world.
• Closing thoughts on what the future may hold for 1PW.