By Sara O'Leary on February 21, 2025
In the electrifying world of professional wrestling, one name commands respect: Matt Classic. As the Executive Director of the Allied Independent Wrestling Federations (AIWF), Matt isn’t just running a promotion—he’s leading a revolution. With over 30 years of history, AIWF has become a global force, delivering hard-hitting action, raw talent, and nonstop thrills to fans worldwide!
Born in 1992 in Mount Airy, North Carolina, the AIWF started as a regional wrestling hub. Fast forward 17 years after Matt secured 49% ownership, and this once-local promotion has exploded onto the international stage, boasting 150 affiliates across 49 countries! But despite its worldwide reach, AIWF stays true to its roots—keeping the focus on real wrestling, real passion, and real fans.
“We’re where legends, rising stars, and future icons collide,” Matt says. “We give fans pure wrestling, no gimmicks needed.”
And AIWF has the track record to back it up. Wrestling superstars like former AEW World Champion Adam Page and WWE’s Andre Chase got their start in AIWF rings, proving this federation is the ultimate launchpad for wrestling greatness!
AIWF isn’t just keeping up—it’s setting the pace. Under Matt’s leadership, the federation is making bold moves, like introducing championship belts featuring sponsor logos—turning every title match into a branding powerhouse. “When our belts show up on social media, in magazines, or on TV, our sponsors win, and so do we,” Matt explains.
But that’s not all! AIWF is taking sponsorships to the next level, offering branding opportunities on turnbuckles, ring canvases, and more—just like the heavyweights in WWE and UFC. And with over 22,000 social media followers and a growing digital presence, AIWF is reaching more fans than ever. Their new show, AIWF Across the Globe, is already making waves on YouTube and will hit cable networks like Roku in March 2025. “We’re doubling our reach every few years,” Matt says. “And we’re just getting warmed up!”
AIWF isn’t just about high-flying action and bone-crushing slams—it’s about heart. The federation gives back, raising funds for families in need, providing free tickets to veterans, Boys and Girls Clubs, and fans with disabilities. “Wrestling should be for everyone,” Matt says. “No one should miss out on the excitement.”
What makes AIWF stand out? Simple—authenticity. “We deliver pure wrestling—no-nonsense, all action,” Matt says. In a world where theatrics often overshadow competition, AIWF stays true to the spirit of the sport. And with expansion plans targeting new markets—like the ultimate proving ground, New York City—AIWF is ready to shake up the industry.
Challenges? Sure. But Matt and his team thrive under pressure. “We’ve learned to do more with less and fight through obstacles,” he says. “That’s what wrestling—and life—is all about.”
Celebrating 33 years of adrenaline-pumping action, AIWF is charging full-speed ahead, bringing the thrill of wrestling to new audiences while staying rooted in its core values: passion, inclusivity, and pure, unfiltered action.
Want in on the action? Follow AIWF on Facebook at @AIWFWrestling and catch AIWF Across the Globe streaming now on YouTube! The next generation of wrestling starts here!
Email: matt_classic@yahoo.com
Phone: +1 704 957 9961
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