How to Start an Indie Wrestling Promotion (And What Nobody Warns You About)

May 27

So you want to start your own wrestling promotion? That’s awesome—and terrifying. Whether you’ve been a lifelong fan or a frustrated talent looking to create your own stage, running your own shows sounds like a dream.

But here’s what they don’t tell you: starting an indie wrestling promotion is part circus, part logistics nightmare, part dream come true.

If you’re searching how to start a wrestling promotion or run indie wrestling events, this guide is here to help you understand what it really takes to get in the ring… without getting KO’d by the business.

🎪 1. You’ll Need a Ring (and a Crew to Build It)

Let’s start with the obvious: no ring, no wrestling. You can rent one, buy one, or borrow one—but each comes with challenges. Setup takes time, sweat, and a crew who knows what they’re doing. Don’t skimp on safety here.

Pro tip: Make friends with reliable ring crews. You’ll need them more than you think.

🏛️ 2. Booking a Venue Is Trickier Than It Sounds

“Just rent a VFW hall or gym, right?”

Not so fast. Some venues want full insurance coverage. Others want to know if there’ll be blood. Some will ghost you once they realize it’s wrestling. Finding the right spot—affordable, accessible, willing to host a ring and rowdy crowd—is half the battle.

Hidden headache: Some venues require permits, security, or contracts weeks in advance. Do your research.

🤼 3. Talent Wrangling Is a Full-Time Job

Booking talent is about more than “who’s cool.” You need wrestlers who will show up, promote the event, work the crowd, and make your show better—not harder.

Do they have gear? A character? A decent promo? Are they reliable? Will they drive 3 hours and still be in character when they walk in the door?

Planet Wrestling Tip: We’ve built a roster of talented, creative wrestlers who get what we’re building—and add to it. That chemistry is everything. See what we’re about

📣 4. Marketing Is Not Optional

You can book the best card in the world, but if nobody knows about it, you’ll be performing for 12 friends and a confused bartender.

You need:

A website
Social media posts (and lots of them)
Promo videos (YouTube helps a lot)
Local flyers or posters
A way to sell tickets online

And don’t expect wrestlers to do all the promo work. It’s your show—push it like your rent depends on it (because it might).

📄 5. Paperwork Is Real (Insurance, Permits, Fees)

Depending on your state or city, you might need:

Liability insurance
Business registration
Performance or assembly permits
Event staff / security clearance

Ignore these at your own risk. Nothing ends an indie promotion faster than a cease-and-desist before bell time.

💸 6. You Probably Won’t Make Money (At First)

Even if you sell 100 tickets, merch, and concessions, the margins are tight. Talent, venue, staff, and equipment costs add up fast. Many indie promotions lose money for the first several shows—it’s a labor of love before it’s a business.

But the payoff? When the crowd chants, the ring shakes, and your vision comes to life? Unbeatable.

🌍 Case Study: Planet Wrestling – Building a Brand from the Ground Up

We launched Planet Wrestling with a wild idea: combine wrestling, storytelling, and a galactic tournament called Copa del Mundo. What started as a passion project has grown into a full-fledged promotion with a loyal following, unforgettable characters, and a live event coming June 21 in Romulus, MI.

We’re still learning, adapting, and grinding—but we’re proof that you can start your own wrestling promotion and bring your weird, wonderful vision to life.