8 Ways ECW Shaped Modern Wrestling

After the territories died, ECW proved that an independent promotion could still function with weekly shows in the U.S., at least regionally. Promoters didn’t need the financial capacity of WCW or WWE – fans would support a low-rent production as long as the in-ring action was quality.

Just like Big Dick Dudley, ECW has spawned several children of varying ilk. Combat Zone Wrestling (CZW) has carried on the hardcore legacy by promoting death matches in the Philadelphia area. Ring of Honor (ROH) was co-founded by Heyman’s protégé Gabe Sapolsky, and has developed a reputation for showcasing elite athleticism and hard-hitting action. House of Hardcore (HOH) was founded by ECW stalwart Tommy Dreamer, and has simultaneously served as a breeding ground for unsigned indy talents and an oasis for ECW legends.