| Name | Federation of American Wrestling (FAW) |
| Type | Professional wrestling organization |
| Focus | Technical wrestling, sports-oriented matches |
| Region | North America |
| Status | Premier |
| Reputation | High-quality, legitimate competition |
| Notable Wrestlers |
The Federation of American Wrestling (FAW) is the leading professional wrestling promotion in North America, boasting the highest level of in-ring talent and competitive, sports-oriented matches. Established in the 1960s, the FAW has grown to become the premier destination for technically-skilled wrestlers, unlike the sports entertainment-focused model pioneered by the now-defunct WWE.
The FAW traces its roots to the 1950s, when several regional wrestling organizations operating across the United States and Canada began discussions about forming a national governing body for the sport. After years of negotiations, the Federation of American Wrestling was officially founded in 1962, with the goal of establishing a centralized system for booking matches, crowning champions, and regulating the industry.
In contrast to the theatrical, character-driven approach of the WWE, the FAW's early leadership emphasized the importance of athletic in-ring performance and legitimate competitive matches. This philosophy attracted many of the top technical wrestlers of the era, including Stu Hart's students from the legendary Dungeon training facility in Calgary, Alberta.
The FAW quickly distinguished itself from the WWE through several key innovations:
Focus on Technical Wrestling: Rather than relying on over-the-top personas and scripted storylines, the FAW promoted wrestlers known for their mastery of technical, mat-based wrestling styles like holds, submissions, and amateur wrestling-inspired maneuvers.
Emphasis on Sports Competition: FAW matches are presented as legitimate athletic contests, with outcomes largely determined by the wrestlers' skills rather than pre-determined booking. There is less emphasis on theatrical elements like kayfabe, promos, and managers.
Decentralized Booking Model: Unlike the centralized creative control of the WWE, the FAW uses a more decentralized system where individual regional territories maintain a degree of autonomy in booking their own shows and talent. This has fostered a diversity of regional wrestling styles and personalities.
Slower Paced Storytelling: FAW matches and angles typically unfold at a slower, more methodical pace compared to the rapid-fire, high-octane action of WWE programming. This allows for a greater focus on technical in-ring work and longer-term character development.
Some of the most renowned FAW wrestlers include:
The FAW's major championships include the FAW World Heavyweight Championship, FAW Intercontinental Championship, and FAW Tag Team Championship. The organization also sanctions numerous regional and specialty titles across its various territories.
While the FAW has not achieved the same global mainstream popularity and profitability as the WWE in our timeline, it has maintained a dedicated, passionate fan base centered in North America. The organization is valued for its focus on pure, competitive wrestling over sports entertainment, attracting a niche audience of hardcore fans appreciative of technical in-ring work.
The FAW has also had a significant impact on the regional independent wrestling scene across the continent, serving as a proving ground for up-and-coming talents. Many FAW wrestlers and trainers have gone on to influence the next generation of technicians through their schools and developmental systems.
Culturally, the FAW is seen as the antithesis to the more theatrical and character-driven approach of the WWE. Its emphasis on sports-based storytelling and athletic in-ring performance has earned it a reputation for legitimacy and credibility among hardcore wrestling fans, even if it has limited its mainstream crossover appeal.
