Is OVW Owned by WWE?By Coder| September 29, 2023 Wrestling Blogs World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) is undoubtedly the biggest name in professional wrestling, known for its larger-than-life superstars and epic storylines. However, WWE’s reach extends beyond its flagship shows and events. One of its lesser-known ventures is Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), a developmental territory that has played a significant role in shaping WWE’s talent pool over the years. The Origins of OVW OVW was established in 1997 by Danny Davis, a former professional wrestler himself. Originally known as the “Ohio Valley Wrestling School,” it served as a training ground for aspiring wrestlers who aimed to make it to the big leagues. Over time, OVW evolved into a full-fledged promotion with regular live events and television tapings. Partnership with WWE In 2000, WWE recognized the potential of OVW and entered into an official partnership with the promotion. This collaboration allowed WWE to scout and develop young talents in a controlled environment before bringing them up to the main roster. Under this agreement, several notable WWE superstars honed their skills at OVW before becoming household names. Wrestlers such as John Cena, Brock Lesnar, Randy Orton, Batista, and countless others went through the rigorous training programs and gained valuable experience at OVW. The Training System at OVW Under the guidance of experienced trainers like Danny Davis and Rip Rogers, aspiring wrestlers at OVW undergo intensive training to master various aspects of professional wrestling. From mastering basic grappling techniques to refining their mic skills, trainees receive comprehensive instruction aimed at preparing them for the demanding world of sports entertainment. Moreover, OVW also provides opportunities for wrestlers to gain in-ring experience through live events and televised shows. This exposure allows them to fine-tune their abilities in front of a live audience, an essential aspect of becoming a successful WWE superstar. OVW’s Independence While OVW maintains a close relationship with WWE, it is important to note that it operates as an independent promotion. This means that OVW has its own roster, championships, and storylines separate from WWE’s main programming. It provides a platform for up-and-coming talents to showcase their skills and develop their characters before potentially getting called up to the big leagues. The Impact on WWE The partnership between OVW and WWE has proven to be mutually beneficial. For WWE, OVW serves as a talent pool where they scout and groom potential future stars. It allows them to identify individuals with the right combination of athleticism, charisma, and in-ring ability before investing in their development. For wrestlers, being part of OVW provides a unique opportunity to learn from industry veterans and gain exposure within the wrestling community. The experience gained at OVW often acts as a springboard for future success in WWE or other promotions. In Conclusion While OVW is not directly owned by WWE, it remains closely associated with the company. The partnership between these two entities has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of professional wrestling by providing a platform for talented individuals to grow and thrive. So, while you may not see OVW on your television screens every week like Raw or SmackDown, its impact on the world of wrestling is undeniable. Key Takeaways: OVW was established in 1997 as a training school for aspiring wrestlers. In 2000, WWE entered into an official partnership with OVW. Several current WWE superstars have honed their skills at OVW. OVW operates as an independent promotion with its own roster and championships. The partnership between OVW and WWE has been mutually beneficial.
