20 Greatest Wrestling Documentaries Ever

18. The British Wrestler (2012)

Wrestling With Shadows Vince Bret
ImpactWrestling.com

Sometimes, the best wrestling documentaries come from the most unlikely of sources. In 2012, VICE decided to chart the rise of Grado, who at that time was seeking the chance to secure bookings with the largest promotion in his hometown of Glasgow, Scotland. Grado didn't only get hired by ICW, he ended up revolutionising the entire company.

The British Wrestler aims to show how the industry in the United Kingdom has changed since the heights seen by World Of Sport and daytime television coverage. Given ICW's subsequent explosion in the UK in years after the release of this film, it makes for incredible viewing for those who have even a passing interest in British wrestling.

Grado is a great focal point, he comes across as entirely likeable. Better yet, he's easy for even casual wrestling fans to identify with, because his story is one of a true underdog overcoming the odds and living out his dreams.

The content is at once endearing and eye-opening, giving great exposure for a scene that was ready to blow up in 2012.

Contributor

Lifelong wrestling, video game, music and sports obsessive who has been writing about his passions since childhood. Jamie started writing for WhatCulture in 2013, and has contributed thousands of articles and YouTube videos since then. He cut his teeth penning published pieces for top UK and European wrestling read Fighting Spirit Magazine (FSM), and also has extensive experience working within the wrestling biz as a manager and commentator for promotions like ICW on WWE Network and WCPW/Defiant since 2010. Further, Jamie also hosted the old Ministry Of Slam podcast, and has interviewed everyone from Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels to Bret Hart and Trish Stratus.