The British wrestling scene has long been a vibrant and diverse landscape, home to promotions that range from industry trailblazers to gritty, underground collectives.
While the golden days of the mid-2010s BritWres boom are a fading memory, the scene remains populated by promotions striving to innovate, adapt, or reclaim past glory.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the most notable wrestling promotions in the UK today, from the established dominance of Revolution Pro Wrestling (RevPro) to the unique appeal of Pro Wrestling EVE, the history-laden name of World of Sport Wrestling, and beyond.
Each company has its own story to tell.
Some battling to maintain their stature, others seeking to redefine their legacy. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the scene, these promotions highlight the past, present, and potential future of wrestling in Britain.
1. RevPro
While Revolution Pro Wrestling (RevPro) has faced its share of challenges, it has remained the preeminent wrestling promotion in the UK, outlasting its contemporaries and evolving into the standard-bearer for British wrestling.
Founded in 2012 by Andy Quildan, RevPro quickly gained a reputation for showcasing world-class talent and bridging the gap between British wrestling and the global stage.
Their alliance with New Japan Pro Wrestling introduced UK audiences to international stars while providing homegrown talents with a platform to shine on the world stage. RevPro became synonymous with high-quality in-ring action, cultivating a legacy of memorable matches and events.
Despite the rise of competing promotions and the tumultuous landscape caused by WWE’s NXT UK initiative, RevPro has stood firm.
The company weathered the talent drain that impacted many British promotions and adapted by consistently elevating new stars while maintaining its partnerships with global organizations. They continue to deliver marquee events, such as their annual “High Stakes” shows, at iconic venues like York Hall.
RevPro’s ability to survive and thrive in a rapidly changing environment is a testament to its resilience and commitment to excellence. While the UK wrestling scene may no longer be in the boom period of the mid-2010s, RevPro remains the torchbearer, showcasing why it’s still the top wrestling promotion in Britain.
Learn more about the history of RevPro
2. Progress
While they have fallen from their lofty heights in the mid-2010s, Progress Wrestling are still right behind RevPro as one of the top wrestling promotions in the UK.
The company, founded by Jim Smallman and Jon Briley in 2011, changed how wrestling was viewed in the UK. They came in with a punk rock approach while also telling unique and cohesive stories across a number of events, or “chapters”.
Sadly, they lost their momentum after doing a deal with the devil (NXT UK and the WWE in this case). They lost all their top talent and were forced to cease their punk activities, like using unlicensed music for their entrances.
Smallman, Briley and Glenn Joseph left the company to join the WWE in 2020 and sold the company to new owners. While they continue to promote shows on a regular basis, they are nowhere near as big as they once were or could be again.
Click this to see the ultimate guide to watching Progress.
3. Pro Wrestling EVE
Next on the list is the UK’s biggest all-women promotion in Pro Wrestling EVE.
Founded in 2010 by Emily and Dann Read, EVE broke new ground by putting women’s wrestling front and centre at a time when it was often overlooked.
Their shows combined high-octane in-ring action with a feminist punk ethos, creating a unique and empowering space for wrestlers and fans alike.
They boast some of the best female wrestlers in the company appearing regularly at The Big Penny Social. Names like Millie McKenzie, Nina Samuels and Alex Windsor lead a fantastic roster that has the potential to become huge in the BritWres sphere.
4. World of Sport Wrestling
Putting World of Sport Wrestling this high on a list of promotions is a risky decision, but not one without its merit.
It is arguably the most well-known on the list to the wider wrestling audience. Even ignoring the 20-year history of World of Sport showing wrestling on ITV, the rebooted WOWS show in 2016 and 2018 attempted to breathe new life into the sport.
While the show was horrible, the name commands recognition. The promotion has already been rebooted, with two pilot shows being filmed last year in Norwich and ready for broadcast.
Whenever and however that happens, World of Sport Wrestling are one to watch in 2025.
5. Insane Championship Wrestling
Insane Championship Wrestling (ICW), once a powerhouse of British wrestling and a cultural phenomenon in Scotland, has seen a significant decline in recent years.
Known for its gritty, over-the-top style and raucous crowds, ICW captured the zeitgeist of the mid-2010s UK wrestling boom. Events like “Fear & Loathing” drew thousands to arenas like the SSE Hydro, and their blend of hardcore action and colourful characters made them a must-watch promotion.
However, ICW’s fortunes have waned dramatically. The company suffered a massive blow when many of its top talents were signed away by WWE, particularly for the NXT UK brand, leaving a void in its roster. Their partnership with WWE initially brought more exposure but ultimately stifled their rebellious, anything-goes spirit—a hallmark of ICW’s identity.
The pandemic years exacerbated ICW’s struggles, forcing them to scale back operations and rely heavily on streaming content, losing the electric atmosphere that made their live shows unforgettable.
Additionally, allegations and controversies surrounding the British wrestling scene during the “Speaking Out” movement tarnished the reputation of several individuals associated with the promotion, creating further challenges for ICW to recover its standing.
While the company continues to run shows and maintain a loyal core audience, ICW is far removed from the heights it once achieved. The days of sold-out arenas and cultural relevance seem distant, leaving fans to wonder if ICW can ever reclaim its former glory.
Long ago are the days of Grado vs Drew McIntyre. With Mark Dallas gone from the company, it looks like ICW’s glory days are not coming back, but they remain consistent for wrestlers and fans alike in Glasgow.
6. British Kingdom Pro Wrestling
It’s a mystery why British Kingdom Pro Wrestling aren’t bigger than they are.
Formerly known as 4PW, the promotion has been running consistently good shows since 2004. They have a good working relationship with Dragon Gate, facilitating the use of top Japanese wrestlers for their shows like Mochizuki Jr. and Kota Minoura.
Mixed in with imports like Brian Kendrick and their own home-grown stars, Brit King Pro have all the potential to become a contender to RevPro’s crown. With more publicity and some big moves, they have a real shot at becoming a top promotion in the UK.
