Who Owns AWA Wrestling?

Who Owns AWA Wrestling?

Introduction

AWA Wrestling, also known as the American Wrestling Association, is a professional wrestling promotion that has entertained fans around the world for decades. Over the years, there have been various individuals and organizations that have owned and operated AWA Wrestling. In this article, we will take a closer look at the ownership history of AWA Wrestling and the key figures behind its success.

The Founding Years

The American Wrestling Association was founded in 1960 by Verne Gagne, a legendary professional wrestler himself. Verne Gagne was not only a successful wrestler but also had a vision to create his own wrestling promotion. With his passion for the sport and business acumen, Gagne laid the foundation for what would become one of the most influential wrestling promotions in history.

Gagne’s Ownership Era

For several decades, Verne Gagne owned and operated AWA Wrestling. Under his leadership, AWA became a prominent force in the wrestling industry. Gagne’s dedication to promoting talented wrestlers and providing high-quality entertainment helped establish AWA as a major competitor to other wrestling promotions during its peak.

The Rise of Vince McMahon Jr.

In the 1980s, Vince McMahon Jr., the owner of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), made significant moves that would eventually reshape the landscape of professional wrestling. McMahon sought to expand his dominance beyond regional territories and approached Verne Gagne with an offer to purchase AWA Wrestling.

Vince McMahon Jr.’s Acquisition

In 1988, Vince McMahon Jr.’s WWE acquired AWA Wrestling from Verne Gagne. This acquisition marked a turning point in professional wrestling history, as it further solidified McMahon’s position as the driving force behind the industry. With the acquisition, many AWA wrestlers joined WWE, and their legacy continued in a new era.

Current Ownership

As of today, AWA Wrestling is not actively operating. The promotion had its last show in 1991, and while there have been attempts to revive it over the years, none have been successful in bringing back the glory days of AWA. However, the legacy of AWA and its influential ownership still resonate with wrestling fans around the world.

Conclusion

Throughout its existence, AWA Wrestling has seen different owners who played crucial roles in shaping its identity and impact on professional wrestling. Verne Gagne’s vision and leadership laid the foundation for success, while Vince McMahon Jr.’s acquisition propelled professional wrestling into a new era. While AWA Wrestling may no longer be active today, its rich history serves as a testament to the passion and dedication of those who owned and operated it.

Sources:

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Wrestling_Association
• https://www.wwe.com/inside/awa-history