You Say You Want Bookings — But Do You Really?

 

It seems like every day on social media, I see the same post:

“Looking for bookings!”
“Available this weekend!”
“Who’s running shows?”

Promoters see those posts, and many of us actually reach out. But here’s the truth most fans never see — a lot of the wrestlers posting “looking for bookings” don’t really mean it.

The Kentucky Reality Check

In Kentucky, professional wrestling is a regulated industry under the Kentucky Boxing and Wrestling Commission. That means if you want to wrestle here, you can’t just show up, lace your boots, and go to work. You have to meet the same standards as everyone else who takes this profession seriously.

That includes:

• Passing a physical exam signed by a licensed physician.

• Obtaining an active Kentucky wrestling license.

• Being subject to random drug testing by the state commission.

None of this is unreasonable. In fact, it’s in place to protect the wrestlers, the promoters, and the fans.

The Excuses We Hear

When you start explaining that process to some out-of-state talent (if you are even lucky enough to get a response from them), their interest suddenly disappears.
They’ll say:

“That’s too much trouble.”
“I’m not paying for that.”
“I don’t do drug tests.”

And right there — you can tell the difference between someone chasing a career and someone chasing a hobby.

The cost? Usually under $200 total. That’s less than what most wrestlers spend on new gear, gas for one weekend, or a night out. And here’s the kicker — that small investment can easily be earned back after working just two or three shows.

Invest in Yourself or Stay Stuck

Kentucky promotions are actively looking for new talent. There’s opportunity here for guys and girls who are serious about this business — who want to grow, get exposure, and build their brand in a new territory.

But opportunity doesn’t come knocking when you won’t even open the door.

The difference between a weekend warrior and a professional is simple: professionals invest in themselves. They do the paperwork. They get the physical. They follow the rules. They take the bookings seriously.

So the next time you post that you’re “looking for bookings,” ask yourself if you’re really ready for them — or if you just like how it sounds online.

Because in Kentucky, we’ve got rings waiting. The question is — do you want to work, or do you just want attention?