| Name | Federation of American Wrestling (FAW) |
| Type | Professional wrestling promotion |
| Style | Technical, character-driven, regional identities |
| Status | Preeminent in the U.S. during its era, resisted transition to 'sports entertainment' model |
| Competitors | Independent promotions • Globally-focused organizations |
| Established | 1950s |
| Active years | 1950s - 1970s |
| Headquarters | United States |
The Federation of American Wrestling (FAW) was the leading professional wrestling promotion in the United States from the 1950s through the 1970s. Formed through the unification of several influential regional territories, the FAW cultivated a distinctive style of wrestling that prioritized technical prowess, character work, and regional identity over the flashy, high-production "sports entertainment" that came to dominate the industry in later decades.
The FAW was established in 1953 when a coalition of the country's major regional wrestling circuits - including the National Wrestling Alliance, the American Wrestling Association, and the Capitol Wrestling Corporation - agreed to pool their resources and talent rosters under a single promotional banner. This move was driven by a desire to streamline operations, share top talent, and better compete with the growing popularity of televised wrestling.
The new FAW quickly established itself as the premier professional wrestling organization in the US, boasting a roster of legendary performers like Gorgeous George, Lou Thesz, Verne Gagne, and Bruno Sammartino. Promoters emphasized a grounded, technical style of wrestling that showcased the athletes' skill and personalities, in contrast with the emerging "sports entertainment" approach pioneered by upstart competitors.
A key part of the FAW's distinctive identity was its embrace of regional wrestling traditions and characters. Each of the territories that made up the FAW had developed its own style, heroes, and villains over decades of operation. The new national promotion sought to preserve these local flavors rather than homogenize them.
For example, the grappling-focused Chicago style was embodied by rugged, scientific wrestlers like Dick the Bruiser and The Fabulous Kangaroos. Meanwhile, the Southern territory featured larger-than-life characters like Ric Flair and Dusty Rhodes who played up regional stereotypes and feuded over long-running, soap opera-esque storylines. This diversity of regional identities and traditions was a major part of the FAW's appeal.
As television became the primary mode of delivering wrestling to audiences, the FAW faced increasing competition from upstart promotions willing to invest in flashier, more theatrical productions. Organizations like the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and the National Wrestling Entertainment (NWE) began poaching top FAW talent and luring fans with their high-octane, "sports entertainment" approach.
In response, the FAW doubled down on its "old school" identity, evolving to incorporate more dramatic storylines and character work without sacrificing its emphasis on technical in-ring ability. Stars like The Undertaker, Steve Austin, and Shawn Michaels helped the FAW adapt to the changing times while retaining its core sensibilities.
However, the rise of globally-oriented promotions like the International Wrestling Syndicate (IWS) in the 1980s and 1990s, along with the proliferation of independent circuits, eventually eroded the FAW's dominance. While it remained a significant force in the industry, the promotion was never able to fully transition to the new "sports entertainment" model championed by its major competitors.
The Federation of American Wrestling left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling. Its emphasis on character, regionalism, and in-ring skill over pure spectacle has inspired generations of wrestlers, promoters, and fans. Many of the FAW's signature performers, storylines, and stylistic traits can still be seen in wrestling today, even as the industry has evolved.
While no longer the juggernaut it once was, the FAW continues to hold a cherished place in the hearts of wrestling aficionados who appreciate its commitment to the sport's "old school" roots. Its influence can be felt across the industry, from the technical mastery of New Japan Pro-Wrestling to the character-driven narratives of All Elite Wrestling. The FAW's legacy as a guardian of wrestling tradition endures.
