‘Promotions must make people feel safer’ - International Women’s Day

As part of our celebration of International Women’s Day, we’ve asked some of the hard-working and most passionate fans in the British wrestling scene to share their experiences of the industry. In this feature we chat to Tia Owen, a writer and wrestling fan who is a regular at shows across the country. Take it away Tia…

Tia Owen is a writer and British wrestling fan

About The Author

Name: Tia Owen
Favourite wrestler: In an answer that won't surprise anyone who’s seen my Twitter or read my reviews, this is Charles Crowley. His character work is absolutely stellar, and I’m glad that international promotions are starting to recognise this too! 
Favourite promotion: I’ve been to every Wrestle Carnival show since it began - and I’ve loved seeing its evolution over (almost) two years. With its mixture of styles, and talent both new and established, there’s always something different to see. And though I haven’t been to them as much, Wrestling Resurgence also earns major props from me for their commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.
Dream match: This changes every day, but at the moment I’m really hoping someone somewhere books Billy Haze against Judas Grey. They’re two punks in fishnets, it’d be wrong if they didn’t face off! 

Tia’s Experience

As a disabled woman, I occupy a unique space in professional wrestling. 

My experiences have been largely positive - I’ve been treated respectfully by other fans, wrestlers and promotions as a whole. Unfortunately, I know other women haven’t been so lucky. 

The #SpeakingOut movement, with experiences ranging from harassment to assault, showed that wrestling still has a “boys club” mentality inside and outside of the ring. 

As with most things, any meaningful change in this must start at the top. Personally, I support the recommendations of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Wrestling for more regulation in the industry - including classifying professional wrestling as a sport within training schools. 

But I also think promotions can change their own practices to make everyone - not just women - feel safer. Having safeguarding policies, and fan codes of conduct, easily available has definitely put me at ease before going to shows at new promotions. And of course, appropriate measures, up to and including bans, should be taken when necessary. 

Any promotion can say they’re inclusive. But at the end of the day, there’s a whole world of difference between “everyone is welcome” and “we made this with you in mind”.