Ohio Valley Wrestling

American professional wrestling promotion

Ohio Valley Wrestling

Industry| Professional wrestling
Founded| 1993; 32 years ago (1993)[1]
Founder| Nightmare Danny Davis
Headquarters| 4400 Shepherdsville Rd, Louisville, Kentucky, United States
Owners|

* Morley Sports Management
* Craig Greenberg
* Matt Jones

Website| ovwrestling.com
Ohio Valley Wrestling

Created by| "Nightmare" Danny Davis
Original language| English
No. of seasons| 25
No. of episodes| 1,352
Production
Camera setup| Multicamera setup
Running time| 105 minutes
Original release
Network|

* WBNA-21
* Triller TV
* YTA
* YouTube
* Action Sports

Release| January 17, 1998 (1998-01-17) –
present

Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) is an American professional wrestling promotion and former developmental territory based in Louisville, Kentucky.[2]The company is currently owned and operated by Morley Sports Management, a United Kingdom-based sports consulting firm.

OVW was initially a member promotion of the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) from its inception in 1993 until 2000, when it became the primary developmental territory for the World Wrestling Federation, now known as WWE.[3] It remained in this role from 2000 until February 7, 2008, when the promotion became unaffiliated.[4] In November 2011, OVW became the developmental territory for Total Nonstop Action Wrestling.[5] This relationship initially ended on November 2, 2013, but on March 19, 2019, the two promotions re-established their developmental agreement.[6]

OVW's television programming originates from the Hotpoint Davis Arena in the Buechel neighborhood of Louisville.[7] Their weekly series (branded on-air as OVW Rise since January 2024,[8] and known informally as OVW TV) currently airs live on local station WBNA-21, streaming service Triller TV, and the promotion's YouTube channel. As of 2020, through various syndication and distribution deals, OVW's weekly series is available to view in over 100 million households in the U.S., and to over 700 million worldwide.[9][10][11]

## History

[edit]

### Founding and NWA membership (1993–2001)

[edit]

OVW was founded by Nightmare Danny Davis in 1993 as a National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) member promotion under the name NWA Ohio Valley Championship Wrestling.[12] The company primarily ran shows in the Kentucky and Indiana territories that were formerly run by the United States Wrestling Association, with weekly shows run out of the original Davis Arena in Jeffersonville, Indiana, with larger shows run out of the Louisville Gardens in Louisville, Kentucky.

In 1997, OVW ended its relationship with the NWA and renamed itself Ohio Valley Wrestling. Later that year, Trailer Park Trash became the first OVW Heavyweight Champion by defeating Vic the Bruiser.[13]

On January 16, 1998, OVW taped the first episode of its weekly television series, emanating from the original Davis Arena in Jeffersonville, Indiana. Louisville Gardens ring announcer Dean Hill served as play by play commentator alongside Faye Davis as the Ring Announcer. The show featured an introduction to the company by owner Danny Davis, with a main event of Nick Dinsmore and Rob Conway vs Juan Hurtado and The Assassin #2.[14]

### WWF/WWE developmental territory (1999–2008)

[edit]

In 1999, WWF creative team member Jim Cornette bought a stake in OVW.[citation needed] Cornette, taking on the role of booker and show writer while appearing in an on-camera commentator role, made his first televised appearance on July 10, 1999, and spoke of the changes that were to take place.[citation needed] The first group of developmental talent included future stars such as John Cena, Randy Orton, Brock Lesnar, Batista, and Shelton Benjamin.[15]

OVW held its final show at the original Davis Arena on August 21, 2002, headlined by a match between Damaja and Rene Dupree.[16] On September 4, 2002, the company would debut its show at the current Davis Arena at 4400 Shepherdsville Rd in Louisville, KY.[citation needed] On July 10, 2005 Jim Cornette parted ways with WWE and was relieved of his duties overseeing OVW. This resulted from an incident where Cornette reportedly slapped an OVW beginners class student Anthony Carelli (better known as Santino Marella) for having an inappropriate reaction to being confronted by a horror-themed wrestler called The Boogeyman during a match at an OVW live show.[17] The two have not been on positive terms since, even having a confrontation during an event both were performing at as recently as October 2017.[18] Cornette was replaced by WWE Trainer Al Snow on the announce team, and Snow was replaced as creative director/producer by Paul Heyman. This arrangement would be short-lived, however, as WWE would eventually put Heyman in charge of the revival of ECW as a WWE brand. Eventually the booking duties would go to Al Snow, who would have the longest tenure outside of Cornette. Jim Cornette sold his stake in OVW to Davis in 2007.[19]

In 2007, WWE launched Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW) in Tampa, Florida to serve as a new developmental territory. OVW and FCW simultaneously trained WWE prospects for a brief period, but on February 7, 2008, WWE announced that it had ended its relationship with OVW, moving all contracted talent to FCW.[4] WWE-contracted talent also made occasional appearances on OVW shows, including a match between John Cena and Lance Cade as the main event for the final Kentucky Kingdom show.[20] However, FCW was dissolved in 2012 and was relaunched as NXT, formerly a reality/scripted television program that existed in its format from 2010 to 2012, replacing the ECW brand.

### Post-WWE years (2008–2018)

[edit]

In 2009, OVW alumnus John "Bradshaw" Layfield would leave WWE to sponsor OVW.[21] On September 8, 2010, in what was dubbed the company's "season premiere", Danny Davis, who himself was making his return for the first time in over a year, announced that Jim Cornette was returning to his role as match maker of the company.[22] Cornette, who was also executive producer of Ring of Honor's HDNet show, Ring of Honor Wrestling, announced that ROH talent were going to work in OVW, along with other new and returning OVW members of the roster.[citation needed]

Logo used in the 2010s

On November 7, 2011, it was announced that OVW and TNA Wrestling had reached an agreement for the former to become an official training and developmental territory.[23] This agreement would end on November 2, 2013, due to a financial dispute.[24]

### Gladiator Sports and Al Snow era (2018–2021)

[edit]

On April 6, 2018, it was announced that professional wrestler Al Snow was purchasing the promotion from Danny Davis, who was planning to retire but didn't want to shut the company down.[25] On September 12, 2018, it was announced that Ohio Valley Wrestling would be merging with Top Notch Boxing, a major boxing promotion in Louisville, to form the Gladiator Sports Network.[26] OVW's first event under the Gladiator Sports banner was the 1000th episode special of its television series on October 10, 2018, from Louisville's Fourth Street Live!. This was OVW's first ever live televised event and it was streamed on FITE TV.[27] The event featured a tournament for the vacant OVW championship featuring both current and past stars as well as a tribute to the companies founders.

On October 29, 2018, the brand announced an international expansion of its wrestling school and television product to the European Market labeled OVW-EU.[28] Most of the schools now affiliated with the OVW Brand outside the United States were formally with the "Al Snow Wrestling Academy" brand which was merged with OVW upon the purchase by Gladiator Sports. This expands Ohio Valley Wrestling to a total of 17 wrestling schools worldwide. An on-demand service, which will air past and current editions of the original American brand plus the possibility of a future OVW UK Brand, was also announced. The service would officially launch on the third week of March 2019 at a cost of $4.99 a month.[29]

In February 2019, OVW would announce a partnership with Impact Wrestling to produce an exclusive event for Impact's Global Wrestling Network (GWN). The event, titled Clash in the Bluegrass, would be an Impact One Night Only special held on March 2, 2019, in Davis Arena. The full-length event would stream on GWN on March 9, 2019. Clash in the Bluegrass would mark the first collaboration between OVW and Impact since 2013, and would be the first time the new Davis Arena has ever sold out an event via pre-sale tickets. On March 19, 2019, Impact announced that the company had entered a new partnership with OVW as its developmental territory.[30]

In April 2019, local media in Louisville reported that OVW was developing a formal vocational educational program in professional wrestling through the Al Snow Wrestling Academy, and had applied for accreditation with the Kentucky Department of Education. The school would be approved by the state of Kentucky on September 15, making it the first officially accredited professional wrestling trade school.[31][32]

During the August 8, 2019 TV tapings, it was announced that OVW TV would move to Tuesday nights on WBNA starting October 1, and that the show would air live.[33]

In October 2020, OVW announced a partnership with Qatar Pro Wrestling.[34] That same month, Game+, a Canadian channel owned by Impact's parent company, Anthem Sports & Entertainment, began syndicating OVW's television program in Canada and the United States.[11]

### 2021–present

[edit]

On January 5, 2021, OVW announced that Matt Jones of Kentucky Sports Radio and Craig Greenberg of 21c Museum Hotels were lead investors in a group that purchased a majority interest in the company. Snow continues to run the promotion's day-to-day operations.[35] Later that year, Louisville TV station WDRB reported that OVW was preparing to move into a building in the city's St. Joseph neighborhood that had served as a University of Louisville employee fitness center before being closed in 2019. If zoning approval is obtained, both OVW and the Al Snow Wrestling Academy will operate out of that facility.[36]

It was announced on August 21, 2023, that OVW would be featured in a new docu-series to air on Netflix titled, Wrestlers. The show follows the company throughout their journey and climb back to prominence. The series comes from director Greg Whiteley (Last Chance U, Cheer) and BBC Studios Los Angeles and covers Al Snow's attempt to keep the promotion economically viable.[37] The success of the show led to OVW to enter a strategic partnership with Genvec Ventures that would ensure them a financial stability. In addition, Ed Payer was named the new CEO of the company.[38]

On January 11, 2024, OVW announced that Mickie James has joined OVW as Creative Director, Head of Female Talent and Executive Producer of their wrestling shows.[39]

On April 7, 2025, Matt Jones announced that Morley Sports Management, a United Kingdom-based sports consulting firm and owners of Haverfordwest County, had acquired a majority shareholding stake of Ohio Valley Wrestling. The acquisition took effect on May 1, 2025, with Rob Edwards, founder of Morley Sports Management, becoming CEO of OVW.[40]Jones, Louisville mayor Craig Greenberg, Andrew Jefferson, Jeffrey Tuvlin, and Al Snow remained with the company as advisors and minority owners.

## Championships

[edit]

### Current champions

[edit]

As of July 22, 2025.

Championship  | Current champion(s)  | Reign  | Date won  | Days held  | Location  | Notes  | Ref.

|
|
|
|
|
|
|

OVW Heavyweight Championship | Kal Herro  | 1  | July 1, 2025  | 21+  | Louisville, Kentucky | Defeated Crixus in a tournament final for the vacant title at OVW Independence Rage.  | [41]
OVW United States Heavyweight Championship  | Erik Surge  | 1  | May 8, 2025  | 75+  | Louisville, Kentucky | At OVW TV #1343, OVW executive Al Snow awarded the United States Heavyweight championship to Surge, replacing the National Heavyweight championship.  | [42]
OVW Media Championship  | Anthony Catena  | 1  | June 5, 2025  | 47+  | Louisville, Kentucky | Defeated Anthony Toatele at OVW TV #1347 after Dustin Jackson vacated the title.  | [43]
OVW Rush Division Championship | Stephen Steele  | 1  | June 14, 2025  | 38+  | Louisville, Kentucky | Won the title in a ladder match at OVW Hard Reset.  | [44]
OVW Tag Team Championship | The Trifecta
(Ashton Adonis and Brandon Baretta)  | 1  | May 8, 2025  | 75+  | Louisville, Kentucky | Defeated Loud and Lawless (Jake Lawless and Von Rockit) for the titles at OVW TV #1343.  | [45]
OVW Women's Championship | Freya The Slaya  | 4 | July 1, 2025 | 21+  | Louisville, Kentucky | Defeated Sophia Rose at OVW Independence Rage.  | [41]

### Defunct championships

[edit]

Championship  | Years active  | First champion(s)  | Final champion(s)  | Notes

|
|
|
|

OVW National Heavyweight Championship | 2020-2025  | Jessie Godderz | Erik Surge  | On May 8, 2025, at OVW TV #1343, OVW executive Al Snow presented Surge with the OVW United States Heavyweight title, replacing the National Heavyweight title.
OVW Light Heavyweight Championship | 1999–2001  | Jason Lee  | Chris Michaels  |
OVW Hardcore Championship | 2000–2001  | Trailer Park Trash  | Randy Orton |
OVW Television Championship | 2005–2019  | Brent Albright | AJZ  | On October 30, Tony Gunn threw the Television Championship into the Ohio River. OVW Commissioner Dean Hill announced on OVW TV that because of this, the Television Championship was deactivated.[46]
OVW Kentucky Heavyweight Championship | 2020–2024  | Luscious Lawrence  | Kal Herro  | At the February 15, 2024 OVW Rise event, Mick Foley presented Herro with the Ohio Valley Wrestling Media title, replacing the Kentucky Heavyweight title.[47]

## Roster

[edit]

### Men's division

[edit]

Ring name  | Real name  | Notes

|
|

Anthony Catena  | Anthony Catena  | OVW Media Champion
Anthony Toatele  | Anthony Toatele  |
Ashton Adonis  | Unknown | OVW Tag Team Champion
Big Beef  | Unknown |
Big Zo  | Cowann Owens  | [48]
Boy Toy Troy  | Unknown |
Brady Booker  | Brady Booker  |
Brandon Barretta  | Brandon Smith  | OVW Tag Team Champion
Brandon Espinosa  | Brandon Espinosa  |
Buzz Bucklund  | Unknown |
Carson Drake  | Unknown |
Ca$h Flo  | Mike Walden[49] | [50]
Chris Exodus  | Unknown |
Crixus  | Luke Scoular  | [51]
Dalton McKenzie  | Unknown |
Danny Limelight  | Danny Rivera  |
Deget Bundlez  | Unknown |
D'Mone Solavino  | Unknown |
Donovan Cecil  | Unknown |
Drew Hernandez  | Drew Hernandez  |
Dustin Jackson  | Dustin Jackson  |
Elijah Drago  | Unknown |
Elijah Eros  | Unknown |
Erik Surge  | Vernon Willis Jr.  | OVW United States Champion
EC3 | Michael Hutter  | [52]
Evil Z  | Unknown |
Icon Lee  | Unknown |
Jack Vaughn  | Unknown | [53]
Jake Lawless  | Unknown |
Jake Painter  | Jake Painter  |
Jason Genesis  | Jason Genesis  |
Jessie Godderz | Jessie Godderz  |
JJ Lawson  | Unknown
Jotá Peso  | Luis Garcia  |
Justice Davis  | Unknown |
Kal Herro  | Unknown | OVW Heavyweight Champion
Kash Daniel  | Kash Daniel  |
Leo Fox  | Unknown |
Luke Kurtis  | Unknown | [54]
Luscious Lawrence  | Lawrence Key Jr.  | [55]
Mad Dog Martin  | Jacob Martin  |
Mahabali Shera | Amanpreet Randhawa  | [56]
Maximo Suave  | Unknown |
Mt. Kadeem  | Unknown |
The Obsidian Angel  | Unknown |
Omar Amir  | Omar Amir  | [57]
Parker Li  | Unknown |
PJ Jones  | Unknown |
Prime Jackson  | Unknown |
Ryan Von Rockit  | Ryan Howe  | [58]
Showtime Shanklin  | Unknown |
Star Rider  | Unknown | [59]
Stephen Steele  | Stephen Dumeyer Jr.  | OVW Rush Division Champion
Thomas Heim  | Thomas Heim  |
Tony Evans  | Tony Frank  |
Tony Gunn  | Anthony Gunn  | Producer[60]
Trace Lee Hunt  | Trace Hunt  |
Truth Magnum  | Shiloh Mount  | [61]
Turbo Floyd  | Randy Kaufman  | [61]
TW3  | Thomas Sinkfield  |
Ty Vance  | Unknown |
Will Austin  | Unknown |

### Women's division

[edit]

Ring name  | Real name  | Notes

|
|

Angelica Risk  | Unknown |
Arie Alexander  | Unknown |
Crystal White  | Unknown |
Dream Girl Ellie  | Ellie Hile  |
Freya the Slaya  | Sarah States  | OVW Women's Champion
Hollyhood Haley J  | Haley James  | [62]
J-Rod  | Jessica Roden  |
Karter Cauffman  | Karter Cauffman  |
Ladybird  | Samantha Seibold  |
Leela Feist  | Unknown |
Leila Grey | Catherine Guzman  |
Lovely Miss Larkan  | Larkan Danielle  |
Madi the American Badi  | Madison Owens  |
Noelle  | Unknown |
Rachel Ley  | Rachel Ley  |
Shalonce Royal  | Shalandra Royal  |
Sophia Rose  | Sophia Gedgaudas  |
Tiffany Nieves  | Unknown |

### Broadcast team

[edit]

Ring name  | Real name  | Role

|
|

AJ McKay  | AJ McKay  | Play-by-Play Commentator for OVW Rise
Producer[63]
Carmen Michael  | Carmen Childers  | Play-by-Play Commentator for OVW Overdrive
Eric Cornish  | Eric Cornish  | Ring Announcer for OVW Rise
Color Commentator for OVW Overdrive[63]
Josh Ashcraft  | Josh Ashcraft  | Color Commentator for OVW Rise
Linda Kay  | Linda Kay  | Color Commentator for OVW Rise
Ring Announcer for OVW Overdrive[63]

### Referees

[edit]

Ring name  | Real name  | Role

|
|

Charlene McKenzie  | Charlene McKenzie  | Referee[63]
Dallas Edwards  | Dallas Edwards  | Referee
Daniel Spencer  | Daniel Spencer  | Senior Referee[63]
Jake Cloyd  | Jake Cloyd  | Referee[63]
Shane Chess  | Shane Chess  | Referee[63]
Steven Eveslage  | Steven Eveslage  | Referee

### Producers

[edit]

Ring name  | Real name  | Role

|
|

Jesse Morris  | Jesse Morris  | Producer[63]
Maria James  | Maria James  | Producer[63]
Mickie James | Mickie James-Aldis  | Creative Director
Executive Producer
Talent Relations
Stephen Dumeyer  | Stephen Dumeyer  | Producer

### OVW Academy

[edit]

Al Snow Ring name  | Real name  | Role

|
|

Adam Revolver  | Jared Pridgin  | Television Show Writing and Formatting
Producer
Occasional Wrestler
Al Snow | Allen Sarven  | Minority Owner
Head Trainer
Becky Cady  | Becky Cady  | Executive Administrator
Bryan Roof  | Bryan Roof  | Admissions Director
Production and Digital Media
Doug Basham | Lyle Basham Jr.  | Trainer
Occasional Wrestler
Jay DeNiro  | Shane Hedrick  | Trainer
Occasional Wrestler
Josh Patterson  | Josh Patterson  | Basic English for Professional Wrestling
KarDaniel Dunn  | KarDaniel Dunn  | Sports Performance and Nutrition
Kharn Alexander  | Kharn Alexander  | On-Camera Presentation
Mike Bucci | Mike Bucci  | Financial Management

### Management

[edit]

Matt Jones Ring name  | Real name  | Role

|
|

Andrew Jefferson  | Andrew Jefferson  | Minority Owner
Bryan Kennison  | Bryan Kennison  | Chief Commercial Officer
Craig Greenberg | Craig Greenberg  | Minority Owner
Jeffrey Tuvlin  | Jeffrey Tuvlin  | Minority Owner
Matt Jones | Matt Jones  | Minority Owner
"Nightmare" Danny Davis | Daniel Briley  | Founder
Rob Edwards  | Rob Edwards  | Chief Executive Officer
Majority Owner
Tracy Rosensteel  | Tracy Rosensteel  | Chief Strategy Officer

## Notable alumni

[edit]

* Aaron Aguilera/Jesús
* Abyss
* Alicia Fox
* Antonio Thomas
* Ariel
* Armando Estrada
* Aron Stevens
* Bam Neely
* Batista
* Beth Phoenix
* Big Show
* Bobby Lashley
* The Boogeyman
* Bradshaw
* Brent Albright/Gunner Scott
* Brian Pillman Jr.
* Brock Lesnar
* Bull Buchanan
* Carlito
* Chad Toland
* Charlie Haas
* Chris Cage
* Chris Kanyon
* Chris Masters
* Christopher Nowinski
* CM Punk
* Cody Rhodes
* Colt Cabana
* Crash Holly
* Crazzy Steve
* Crimson
* Cryme Tyme
* Curt Hawkins/Brian Myers
* Daffney
* Damaja/Danny Basham
* Daniel Puder
* Daniel Rodimer/Dan Rodman
* Davey Boy Smith Jr.
* Deuce 'n' Domino
* Dexter Lumis
* DJ Gabriel
* Doug Basham
* Drake Maverick
* Elijah Burke/D'Angelo Dinero
* EC3
* Eve Torres
* Faarooq
* Flash Flanagan
* Frankie Kazarian
* Gail Kim
* Gene Snitsky
* The Highlanders
* Jackie Gayda/Miss Jackie
* Jake Hager
* Jamie Noble
* Jamin Olivencia
* Jay Bradley/Ryan Braddock
* Jazz
* Jillian Hall
* Joey Mercury
* John Cena
* Johnny Nitro/John Morrison
* Johnny Jeter
* Johnny Swinger
* Jon Heidenreich
* K.C. James
* Katie Lea
* Kelly Kelly
* Ken Doane/Kenny
* Kenzo Suzuki
* Kevin Thorn/Seven
* Kid Kash
* Kizarny
* Kofi Kingston
* Lance Cade
* Lei'D Tapa
* Linda Miles
* Luke Gallows/Festus
* Luther Reigns
* Madison Rayne
* Marc Copani/Muhammad Hassan
* Mark Henry
* Mark Jindrak
* Maryse Ouellet
* Matt Cappotelli
* Matt Morgan
* Matt Sydal
* Megan Bayne
* Melina Perez
* Melissa Coates
* Mike Mondo/Mikey
* The Miz
* Mr. Kennedy/Mr. Anderson
* Natalya
* Nathan Jones
* Nick Dinsmore/Eugene
* Nick Mitchell/Mitch
* Nick Nemeth/Nicky/Dolph Ziggler
* Nidia
* ODB
* Orlando Jordan
* Pat Buck
* Paul Burchill
* Randy Orton
* Ray Gordy/Jesse
* Rebel
* René Duprée
* Rhyno
* Ricky Ortiz
* Rico Constantino
* Roadkill
* Rob Conway
* Rob Terry
* Rodney Mack
* Romeo Roselli
* Ron "H2O" Waterman
* Rosa Mendes
* Ruby Riott/Ruby Soho
* Ryback
* Santino Marella
* Sean O'Haire
* Sean Patrick O'Brien
* Serena Deeb
* The Shane Twins/The Gymnini
* Sharmell
* Shawn Daivari
* Shawn Spears
* Shelton Benjamin
* Simon Dean/Nova
* Sojourner Bolt
* Solo Darling
* Steve Bradley
* Sylvain Grenier
* Sylvester Terkay
* Taeler Hendrix
* Tank Toland
* Taryn Terrell
* The Tate Twins
* Tommaso Ciampa
* Tommy Dreamer
* Trevor Murdoch
* Tyson Tomko
* Victoria
* Vito
* Vladimir Kozlov
* Wade Barrett
* Zack Ryder/Matt Cardona

## See also

[edit]

* List of Ohio Valley Wrestling tournaments
* Sports in Louisville, Kentucky
* List of National Wrestling Alliance territories
* List of independent wrestling promotions in the United States

## References

[edit]

1. ^ "About Us". Archived from the original on June 20, 2023. Retrieved June 20, 2023.
2. ^ "About OVW | Ohio Valley Wrestling". Ovwrestling.com. Archived from the original on December 6, 2013. Retrieved August 10, 2015.
3. ^ Cactus Back Wrestling (May 31, 2017), OVW TV #1 (January 17,1998), archived from the original on October 3, 2019, retrieved April 18, 2018
4. ^ a b "WWE to cease affiliation with Ohio Valley Wrestling". World Wrestling Entertainment. February 7, 2008. Archived from the original on February 10, 2008. Retrieved February 7, 2008.
5. ^ "TNA Impact Wrestling and OVW Sign Developmental Deal | Ohio Valley Wrestling". Ovwrestling.com. November 7, 2011. Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved August 10, 2015.
6. ^ IMPACT (March 19, 2019). "BREAKING: We are thrilled to announce that we have re-entered into an agreement with @ovwrestling to serve as an official development and training territory for IMPACT Wrestling.pic.twitter.com/Wm8g20VwPT". @IMPACTWRESTLING. Archived from the original on November 7, 2020. Retrieved March 19, 2019.
7. ^ Marshall, Anne (December 7, 2011). "Learning the ropes". Louisville Eccentric Observer. Archived from the original on January 8, 2012. Retrieved December 12, 2011.
8. ^ OVW Rise TV #1274 - After the Nightmare (2024-01-12) - Results @ Wrestlingdata.com; Retrieved on September 4, 2024
9. ^ "OV Wrestling". OV Wrestling. Archived from the original on October 2, 2021. Retrieved February 5, 2020.
10. ^ "Watch OVW".
11. ^ a b "OVW Adds Game+ As 7th Network To Growing Platform; Owner Al Snow Comments". Forbes. Archived from the original on December 27, 2021. Retrieved December 27, 2021.
12. ^ "Danny Davis Sells Ohio Valley Wrestling | 411MANIA". 411mania.com. Archived from the original on April 18, 2018. Retrieved April 18, 2018.
13. ^ Van Drisse, Trent (June 2, 2011). "OVW TV report 6-1 tapings in Louisville". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Archived from the original on April 5, 2011. Retrieved June 3, 2011.
14. ^ "OVW TV Taping (January '98 #1) at Davis Arena (Original) wrestling results – Internet Wrestling Database". Archived from the original on February 18, 2022. Retrieved October 4, 2018.
15. ^ "The kids from OVW that changed WWE". Archived from the original on September 1, 2019. Retrieved October 4, 2018.
16. ^ "OVW Jeffersonville Show (Aug '02) at Davis Arena (Original) wrestling results – Internet Wrestling Database". Archived from the original on February 18, 2022. Retrieved October 4, 2018.
17. ^ "Jim Cornette Fired From World Wrestling Entertainment - WrestlingInc.com". www.wrestlinginc.com. Archived from the original on October 4, 2018.
18. ^ "More Videos and Details from Jim Cornette – Santino Marella Incident at Wrestling Convention". October 8, 2017.
19. ^ "TNA News: Jim Cornette says TNA needs a developmental program, criticizes WWE's developmental program". PWTorch.com. April 10, 2009. Archived from the original on March 3, 2016. Retrieved August 10, 2015.
20. ^ "OVW Summer Sizzler Series '08 (#4) at Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom wrestling results – Internet Wrestling Database". Archived from the original on February 18, 2022. Retrieved October 4, 2018.
21. ^ Johnson, Mike (March 8, 2009). "More details on JBL-OVW story (updated)". PWInsider.com.
22. ^ Caldwell, James (September 9, 2010). "ROH/OVW News: Jim Cornette announced as new OVW matchmaker; "working relationship" announced between ROH & OVW". Pro Wrestling Torch. Archived from the original on September 11, 2010. Retrieved September 9, 2010.
23. ^ Caldwell, James (November 7, 2011). "TNA News: TNA announces official training program with WWE's former developmental territory". Pro Wrestling Torch. Archived from the original on November 10, 2011. Retrieved November 7, 2011.
24. ^ "FRI. UPDATE: More TNA cost saving moves, Carters send e-mail to talent denying sale, Video game promotion, real story behind birth of one of greatest world title reigns, Legednary mafch, Classics on Demand, Weekend preview". F4wonline.com. November 1, 2023. Archived from the original on October 6, 2014. Retrieved October 27, 2023.
25. ^ "Former WWE superstar Al Snow purchases Ohio Valley Wrestling". Louisville, KY: WDRB. April 6, 2018. Retrieved August 16, 2018.
26. ^ Finley, Marty (September 12, 2018). "Ohio Valley Wrestling merges with Louisville boxing group to form new sports network". Louisville Business First. American City Business Journals.
27. ^ Wrestle Zone. "OVW's 1000th Episode To Air Live On FITE Next Week – Wrestlezone". PW-Core.com. Archived from the original on October 4, 2018.
28. ^ "OVW UK•EU". www.facebook.com. Retrieved February 25, 2019.
29. ^ "Exclusive: Al Snow on the Gladiator Sports Network & Ohio Valley Wrestling's future". April 6, 2019.
30. ^ CURRIER, JOSEPH (March 19, 2019). "IMPACT WRESTLING & OVW RE-ENTER DEVELOPMENTAL AGREEMENT". F4W. Archived from the original on March 21, 2019. Retrieved May 8, 2019.
31. ^ Bard, Jessica (April 3, 2019). "Ohio Valley Wrestling to open first professional wrestling trade school". Louisville, KY: WDRB. Archived from the original on April 3, 2019. Retrieved April 4, 2019.
32. ^ "The Al Snow Wrestling Academy is Now a State Accredited Trade School". September 15, 2019. Archived from the original on September 18, 2019. Retrieved October 4, 2019.
33. ^ "8/7 OVW TV TAPING LIVE REPORT FROM LOUISVILLE, KY". August 8, 2019. Archived from the original on September 3, 2024. Retrieved September 3, 2024.
34. ^ Johnson, Mike (October 23, 2020). "OVW announces partnership with Qatar Pro Wrestling". PWInsider.com.
35. ^ Melchor, Michael (January 5, 2021). "Matt Jones and Craig Greenberg Purchase a Majority Interest in Ohio Valley Wrestling". Ohio Valley Wrestling. Archived from the original on January 10, 2021. Retrieved January 9, 2021.
36. ^ Draut, Sam (August 31, 2021). "Former UofL fitness center proposed as pro wrestling academy". WDRB. Retrieved September 10, 2021.
37. ^ Otterson, Joe (August 21, 2023). "Netflix Sets Premiere Date for Ohio Valley Wrestling Docuseries 'Wrestlers' From 'Cheer,' 'Last Chance U' Creator (EXCLUSIVE)". Variety. Archived from the original on August 21, 2023. Retrieved August 21, 2023.
38. ^ Russell, Skylar (December 12, 2023). "OVW Announces Strategic Partnership with Genvec Ventures, Ed Payer Revealed as New CEO". Fightful. Archived from the original on December 12, 2023. Retrieved December 25, 2023.
39. ^ DeFelice, Robert (January 11, 2024). "Mickie James Joins OVW; Named Creative Director, Head of Female Talent, and Executive Producer". Fightful. Archived from the original on January 12, 2024. Retrieved January 12, 2024.
40. ^ Solowrestling (April 8, 2025). "Ohio Valley Wrestling tiene nuevos propietarios". Solowrestling (in Spanish). Retrieved April 10, 2025.
41. ^ a b Kreikenbohm, Philip (July 1, 2025). "OVW TV #1351 Independence Rage - TV-Show @ Davis Arena in Louisville, Kentucky, USA". Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database. Retrieved July 1, 2025.
42. ^ Kreikenbohm, Philip (April 24, 2025). "OVW TV #1341 - TV-Show @ Davis Arena in Louisville, Kentucky, USA". Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database. Retrieved April 24, 2025.
43. ^ Kreikenbohm, Philip (June 5, 2025). "OVW TV #1347 - TV-Show @ Davis Arena in Louisville, Kentucky, USA". Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database. Retrieved June 5, 2025.
44. ^ Kreikenbohm, Philip (June 14, 2025). "OVW Hard Reset 2025 - TV-Show @ Davis Arena in Louisville, Kentucky, USA". Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database. Retrieved June 14, 2025.
45. ^ Kreikenbohm, Philip (May 8, 2025). "OVW TV #1343 - TV-Show @ Davis Arena in Louisville, Kentucky, USA". Cagematch - The Internet Wrestling Database. Retrieved May 17, 2025.
46. ^ Melchor, Michael (November 20, 2019). "Ohio Valley Wrestling Announces RUSH Championship". Ohio Valley Wrestling. Archived from the original on December 7, 2019. Retrieved December 6, 2019.
47. ^ "OVW Rise 2/15/24 Results: NWA World Champion EC3 vs. Luke Kurtis, Leila Grey Celebrates Her OVW Women's Title Victory, Mick Foley Introduces A New OVW Championship".
48. ^ "Big Zo". OV Wrestling. Archived from the original on December 31, 2021. Retrieved December 31, 2021.
49. ^ "Cash Flo | Actor". IMDb. Archived from the original on December 8, 2024. Retrieved November 27, 2024.
50. ^ "Ca$h Flo". OV Wrestling.
51. ^ "Crixus". OV Wrestling. Archived from the original on July 2, 2022. Retrieved July 31, 2022.
52. ^ "EC3". OV Wrestling.
53. ^ "Jack Vaughn". OV Wrestling. Archived from the original on November 25, 2023. Retrieved November 25, 2023.
54. ^ "Luke Kurtis". OV Wrestling. Archived from the original on July 31, 2022. Retrieved July 31, 2022.
55. ^ "Luscious Lawrence". OV Wrestling.
56. ^ "Mahabali Shera". OV Wrestling. Archived from the original on October 4, 2023. Retrieved November 25, 2023.
57. ^ "Omar Amir". OV Wrestling.
58. ^ "Ryan Von Rockit". OV Wrestling. Archived from the original on November 25, 2023. Retrieved November 25, 2023.
59. ^ "Star Rider". OV Wrestling. Archived from the original on December 27, 2021.
60. ^ "Tony Gunn". OV Wrestling.
61. ^ a b "Outrunners". OV Wrestling.
62. ^ ""Hollyhood" Haley J". OV Wrestling. Archived from the original on January 17, 2021.
63. ^ a b c d e f g h i "Team". OV Wrestling.

## External links

[edit]

* Official website
* Ohio Valley Wrestling at IMDb

* v
* t
* e

Ohio Valley Wrestling

Championships|

| Primary|

* Heavyweight (reigns)
* National Heavyweight (reigns)
* Kentucky Heavyweight (reigns)

|

Secondary|

* Anarchy (reigns)
* Rush Division (reigns)

Tag Team Division|

* Tag Team (reigns)

Women's Division|

* Women's (reigns)

Accomplishments|

* Triple Crown
* Other tournaments

Talent|

* Roster

Programming|

* OVW TV
* Clash in the Bluegrass
* Sacrifice
* Wrestlers

Partnerships|

| Current|

* Impact Wrestling

|

Former|

* World Wrestling Entertainment
* Ring of Honor
* National Wrestling Alliance

Ownership|

* Craig Greenberg
* Matt Jones
* Al Snow

* v
* t
* e

WWE

History|

* McMahon family
* Capitol Wrestling Corporation
* 1980s boom
* Black Saturday
* WrestleMania I
* Ring boy scandal
* Steroids trial
* The Kliq
* Bone Street Krew
* Monday Night Wars
* Montreal Screwjob
* Attitude Era
* The Invasion
* WWF trademark dispute
* Chris Benoit double-murder and suicide
* PG Era
* New Monday Night Wars
* Wednesday Night Wars
* ThunderDome
* Vince McMahon sex trafficking scandal

Programming|

| Weekly in-ring shows|

* Monday Night Raw
* history
* special episodes
* Friday Night SmackDown
* history
* special episodes
* NXT
* Seasons 1–5
* special episodes
* Speed
* Main Event
* Evolve

|

Recap shows|

* Afterburn
* Bottom Line
* This Week in WWE
* Vintage
* Wal3ooha

Seasonal shows
and specials|

* Biography: WWE Legends
* LFG
* Most Wanted Treasures
* Rivals
* Saturday Night's Main Event

Pay-per-view and
WWE Network events|

* Royal Rumble
* Vengeance
* Elimination Chamber
* NXT Stand & Deliver
* WrestleMania
* Backlash
* King of the Ring
* Battleground
* Clash
* Money in the Bank
* Heatwave
* SummerSlam
* Bash in Berlin
* No Mercy
* Bad Blood
* Halloween Havoc
* Crown Jewel
* Survivor Series
* NXT Deadline

Other|

* Broadcasting rights

Home bases|

* UFC Apex
* WWE Performance Center

Former|

* Amway Center
* Full Sail University
* Tropicana Field
* Yuengling Center

Personnel|

* Hall of Fame
* Former personnel
* A–C
* D–H
* I–M
* N–R
* S–Z

Notable rivalries
and matches|

* André the Giant–Hulk Hogan rivalry
* Bret Hart vs. Tom Magee
* Mankind vs. The Undertaker
* The Streak

Affiliated properties|

* WWE 2K
* WWE Books
* WWE Legacy Department
* WWE Music Group
* Discography
* WWE Podcast Network
* WWE Studios
* Tapout

Defunct businesses|

* World Bodybuilding Federation
* The World
* WWE Classics on Demand
* WWE Home Video
* WWE Network
* Canada
* WWE Niagara Falls
* WWE Magazine
* XFL
* 2001
* 2020

Notable acquisitions|

* American Wrestling Association
* Dragon Gate USA
* Evolve
* WWE revival
* Extreme Championship Wrestling
* WWE revival
* Florida Championship Wrestling
* Georgia Championship Wrestling
* Global Wrestling Federation
* Heartland Wrestling Association (video library)
* International Championship Wrestling
* Smoky Mountain Wrestling
* World Championship Wrestling
* history
* Who Killed WCW?
* World Class Championship Wrestling
* World Wrestling Council (video library)

Investments|

* Avid Technology
* Cloud9
* DraftKings
* Drone Racing League
* FloSports
* Marvel Experience
* Phunware
* Premier Lacrosse League
* Tout

Related companies|

| Owners|

* TKO Group Holdings
* Endeavor

|

Sister companies|

* IMG
* Professional Bull Riders
* Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide
* Ultimate Fighting Championship

Partnerships|

| Current|

* Game Changer Wrestling
* National Wrestling Alliance
* Pro Wrestling Noah
* Dream Star Fighting Marigold
* Reality of Wrestling
* Total Nonstop Action Wrestling

|

Former|

* All Japan Pro Wrestling
* Deep South Wrestling
* Insane Championship Wrestling
* International Wrestling Association
* Memphis Championship Wrestling
* Michinoku Pro Wrestling
* New Japan Pro-Wrestling
* Ohio Valley Wrestling
* Power Pro Wrestling
* Progress Wrestling
* Smoky Mountain Wrestling
* Super World of Sports
* Ultimate Pro Wrestling
* United States Wrestling Association
* Universal Lucha Libre
* Universal Wrestling Association
* Universal Wrestling Federation
* WAR
* Westside Xtreme Wrestling
* World Wrestling Alliance

Championships|

* Current champions
* Former championships
* Types of championships
* Tag team
* Women's
* World

Accomplishments|

* Diva Search
* Money in the Bank
* Tough Enough
* Awards
* Slammys
* NXT Year-End
* WWE Year-End
* Grand Slam
* Triple Crown
* Battle royals
* André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal
* Royal Rumble
* WrestleMania Women's Battle Royal

Tournaments|

* Brawl for All
* Cruiserweight Classic
* Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic
* King of the Ring
* Mae Young Classic
* Mixed Match Challenge
* NXT Breakout Tournament
* Queen of the Ring
* Sam Muchnick Memorial Tournament

Brand extension|

* Raw
* SmackDown
* NXT
* Evolve
* NXT UK
* 205 Live
* ECW
* Draft
* 2002
* 2004
* 2005
* 2006
* 2007
* 2008
* 2009
* 2010
* 2011
* 2016
* 2017
* 2018
* April 2019
* October 2019
* 2020
* 2021
* 2023
* 2024

International|

* Australia
* Canada
* India
* Mexico
* New Zealand
* Saudi Arabia
* UK

Miscellaneous|

* Attendance records
* Titan Towers
* Women in WWE
* WrestleMania Axxess
* WWE action figures
* LJN Wrestling Superstars
* WWE ID and WWE NIL

* v
* t
* e

National Wrestling Alliance

Championships|

| World|

* World's Heavyweight (reigns)
* World Television (reigns)
* World Tag Team (reigns)
* World Junior Heavyweight (reigns)

|

National|

* National Heavyweight (reigns)
* Mid-America Heavyweight (reigns)
* United States Tag Team (reigns)

Women's|

* Women's (reigns)
* Women's Television (reigns)
* Women's Tag Team (reigns)

Programming|

| Current|

* Powerrr

|

Former|

* Primetime Live
* Shockwave
* USA

Pay-per-view and major events|

| Current Signature Live Events|

* Anniversary Show
* Crockett Cup
* Hard Times
* Samhain

|

Pop-Up Events|

* New Years Clash
* By Any Means Necessary
* PowerrrTrip
* 1
* 2
* The World is a Vampire: NWA vs. AAA

Historical events|

* 312
* Alwayz Ready
* Back for the Attack
* Back to the Territories
* Break the Barrier
* EmPowerrr
* Into the Fire
* Looks That Kill
* Nuff Said
* Paranoia
* Shockwave
* Superbowl of Wrestling
* When Our Shadows Fall
* World Wrestling Peace Festival
* Wrestling Summit
* Pay-per-view and closed circuit events (1983–1990)
* Pay-per-view events (2002–2004)

Home bases|

* GPB Studios

Notable acquisitions|

* Houston Wrestling (video library)

Partnerships|

* All Japan Pro Wrestling
* Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide
* Ohio Valley Wrestling
* WWE

Current territories|

* NWA Chicago
* NWA Exodus Pro Midwest
* NWA JCP Southeast
* NWA Kross Fire
* NWA New Mexico
* NWA Texas
* NWA World League Wrestling

Former partners|

* All Elite Wrestling
* Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre
* Global Force Wrestling
* Pro Wrestling USA
* American Wrestling Association
* National Wrestling Federation
* New Japan Pro-Wrestling
* Ring of Honor
* Total Nonstop Action Wrestling
* United Wrestling Network
* Championship Wrestling from Hollywood
* Combat Zone Wrestling
* World Championship Wrestling

Related|

* All In
* Attendance records
* Billy Corgan
* Current champions
* Former territories
* Hall of Fame
* Hall of Heroes
* NWA All Access
* NWA (stable)
* Pinkie George
* Sam Muchnick
* Wrestling at the Chase

* v
* t
* e

Professional wrestling in the United States

Active promotions

| National promotions|

* All Elite Wrestling
* Major League Wrestling
* National Wrestling Alliance
* Ring of Honor
* Total Nonstop Action Wrestling
* WWE

Women's:|

* Women of Wrestling

Independent promotions|

* AAW Wrestling
* All Pro Wrestling
* Beyond Wrestling
* Championship Wrestling
* Chaotic Wrestling
* Combat Zone Wrestling
* Coastal Championship Wrestling
* Deadlock Pro-Wrestling
* DEFY Wrestling
* East Coast Wrestling Association
* Empire Wrestling Federation
* Exodus Pro Wrestling
* Full Impact Pro
* Game Changer Wrestling
* Hoodslam
* House of Glory
* Independent Wrestling Federation
* Innovate Pro Wrestling
* Juggalo Championship Wrestling
* Kaiju Big Battel
* Keystone State Wrestling Alliance
* Main Event Championship Wrestling
* MCW Pro Wrestling
* Northeast Wrestling
* Ohio Valley Wrestling
* PCW Ultra
* Pro Wrestling Guerrilla
* Premiere Wrestling Xperience
* Reality of Wrestling
* Southern States Wrestling
* Ultra Championship Wrestling-Zero
* Warrior Wrestling
* World League Wrestling
* World Xtreme Wrestling
* Xtreme Pro Wrestling

Women's:|

* Shine Wrestling
* Sukeban
* Women Superstars United
* Women's Wrestling Army

Puerto Rican promotions|

* IWA Puerto Rico
* La Liga Wrestling
* World Wrestling Council

Governing bodies and interpromotional alliances|

* United Wrestling Network
* WWNLive

Notable TV programs|

* AEW Collision
* AEW Dynamite
* TNA Impact!
* WWE NXT
* WWE Raw
* WWE SmackDown

Notable streaming programs|

* NWA Powerrr
* Ring of Honor Wrestling
* TNA Xplosion
* WWE Evolve
* WWE Main Event
* WWE Speed

Defunct promotions

| National promotions|

* American Wrestling Association
* Extreme Championship Wrestling
* Jim Crockett Promotions
* Lucha Underground
* Universal Wrestling Federation (Bill Watts)
* Universal Wrestling Federation (Herb Abrams)
* World Championship Wrestling
* World Class Championship Wrestling

|

Independent promotions and regional territories|

* 50th State Big Time Wrestling
* American Wrestling Federation
* Assault Championship Wrestling
* Big Time Wrestling (Boston)
* Big Time Wrestling (Detroit)
* Big Time Wrestling (San Francisco)
* Capitol Wrestling Corporation
* Century Wrestling Alliance
* Championship Wrestling from Florida
* Chikara
* Continental Championship Wrestling
* Continental Wrestling Association
* CWF Mid-Atlantic
* Deep South Wrestling
* Dragon Gate USA
* Extreme Rising
* Evolve
* Family Wrestling Entertainment
* Florida Championship Wrestling
* Fred Kohler Enterprises
* Front Row Wrestling
* Future of Wrestling
* Georgia Championship Wrestling
* Global Force Wrestling
* Global Wrestling Federation
* Hardcore Homecoming
* Heart of America Sports Attractions
* Heartland Wrestling Association
* House of Hardcore
* Houston Wrestling
* Incredibly Strange Wrestling
* Independent Professional Wrestling Alliance
* International Championship Wrestling
* International World Class Championship Wrestling
* IWA Mid-South
* IWF Promotions
* Jersey All Pro Wrestling
* Mason-Dixon Wrestling
* Memphis Wrestling
* Memphis Championship Wrestling
* Metro Pro Wrestling
* Mid-Eastern Wrestling Federation
* Millennium Wrestling Federation
* National Wrestling Conference
* National Wrestling Federation
* New England Championship Wrestling
* NOVA Pro Wrestling
* NWA Mid-America
* NWA San Francisco
* NWA Wildside
* OMEGA Championship Wrestling
* Pacific Northwest Wrestling
* Phoenix Championship Wrestling
* Pro-Pain Pro Wrestling
* Pro Wrestling America
* Resistance Pro Wrestling
* Ring Warriors
* Smoky Mountain Wrestling
* South Atlantic Pro Wrestling
* Southern Championship Wrestling (Georgia)
* Southwest Championship Wrestling
* St. Louis Wrestling Club
* Steel City Wrestling
* Texas All-Star Wrestling
* Texas Wrestling Academy
* Top Rope Promotions
* Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling
* Ultimate Pro Wrestling
* United States Wrestling Association
* Warriors 4 Christ Wrestling
* West Coast Wrestling Connection
* Western States Sports
* Windy City Pro Wrestling
* World Wide Wrestling Alliance
* World Wrestling Alliance
* World Wrestling Association
* Worldwide Wrestling Associates
* World Wrestling Network
* Xcitement Wrestling Federation

Women's:|

* ChickFight
* Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling
* Ladies Major League Wrestling
* Ladies Professional Wrestling Association
* Naked Women's Wrestling League
* Professional Girl Wrestling Association
* Powerful Women of Wrestling
* Rise Wrestling
* Shimmer Women Athletes
* World Women's Wrestling
* Wrestlicious

Governing bodies and interpromotional alliances|

* American Wrestling Affiliates
* Global Professional Wrestling Alliance
* National Wrestling Association
* Pro Wrestling USA
* Wrestling Superstars Live

Notable programs|

* AEW Dark
* AEW Dark: Elevation
* AEW Rampage
* AWA All-Star Wrestling
* AWA Championship Wrestling
* Before the Impact
* ECW Hardcore TV
* ECW on TNN
* ECW on Syfy
* Lucha Libre USA: Masked Warriors
* Lucha Underground
* MLW Fusion
* MLW Underground Wrestling
* NWA USA
* Superstars of Wrestling
* UWF Fury Hour
* WCW Monday Nitro
* WCW Thunder
* WCW Saturday Night
* WCW WorldWide
* Wrestling at the Chase
* Wrestling Society X
* WWE 205 Live
* WWE Heat
* WWE NXT Level Up
* WWE NXT UK
* WWE Superstars
* WWE Velocity

* Attendance records
* Hall of Fame
* History

*[No.]: Number
*[Ref.]: Reference(s)
*[v]: View this template
*[t]: Discuss this template
*[e]: Edit this template