Is There Wrestling in Canada?

Canada, known for its rich sports culture, is home to various popular sports like ice hockey, lacrosse, and Canadian football. But what about wrestling?

Is professional wrestling a popular sport in the Great White North? Let’s explore!

The History of Wrestling in Canada

Wrestling has a long and storied history in Canada. It dates back to the early 20th century when professional wrestling promotions began to gain popularity across the country. In those days, wrestling events were held in local arenas and featured a mix of local talent along with international stars.

Did you know? One of the earliest Canadian professional wrestlers was Frank Gotch, who gained fame for his rivalry with American wrestler George Hackenschmidt in the early 1900s.

The Rise of Promotions

In the 1980s and 1990s, professional wrestling saw a surge in popularity worldwide thanks to promotions like WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment). Canada played a significant role during this era as it produced several legendary wrestlers who became household names.

Bret “The Hitman” Hart

Bret Hart is arguably one of the greatest Canadian wrestlers of all time. Hailing from Calgary, Alberta, Hart achieved worldwide fame as a member of the famous Hart wrestling family. He was known for his technical prowess and captivating storytelling inside the ring.

Notable Achievements:

WWE Championship Title (5 times)
Intercontinental Championship Title (2 times)
Tag Team Championship Titles (7 times)

Trish Stratus

Trish Stratus, a former fitness model turned professional wrestler, made a significant impact on the wrestling scene in the early 2000s. Hailing from Ontario, Stratus was known for her athleticism, charisma, and versatility.

Notable Achievements:

WWE Women’s Championship Title (7 times)
WWE Hardcore Championship Title (1 time)

The Canadian Wrestling Scene Today

Today, Canada continues to have a thriving wrestling scene with numerous promotions and independent wrestlers making their mark. Promotions like Impact Wrestling and All Elite Wrestling regularly hold events in major Canadian cities.

Fun Fact: The legendary Hart Dungeon, a training facility run by the Hart family in Calgary, has produced many successful wrestlers who have gone on to achieve great success both nationally and internationally.

Notable Canadian Wrestlers Today

Kevin Owens – Known for his hard-hitting style and charismatic personality.
Sami Zayn – A high-flying wrestler with incredible in-ring skills.
Taya Valkyrie – A dominant force in women’s wrestling with an impressive track record.

In conclusion, professional wrestling has a strong presence in Canada’s sports culture. With its rich history and continued contributions to the industry, Canada remains an important hub for both homegrown talent and international superstars.

So yes, there is definitely wrestling in Canada!