Kingdom Wrestling in the running for two major awards

Kingdom Wrestling, based in Shipley, is in the running for Social Enterprise of the Year at the Keighley and Airedale Business Awards <i>(Image: Supplied)</i>
Kingdom Wrestling, based in Shipley, is in the running for Social Enterprise of the Year at the Keighley and Airedale Business Awards (Image: Supplied)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

A WRESTLING charity has been shortlisted for two awards.

Kingdom Wrestling, based in Shipley, is in the running for Social Enterprise of the Year at the Keighley and Airedale Business Awards, while founder Gareth ‘Angel’ Thompson is up for Sports Personality of the Year at the 2026 Men's Porch Legacy Awards.

The nominations celebrate the organisation’s work in using professional wrestling to inspire and support communities, particularly young people across the Bradford district.

A spokesperson for Kingdom Wrestling said: "These nominations recognise Kingdom Wrestling's relentless dedication to empowering the local community, transforming lives, and delivering high-energy, family-friendly sports entertainment.

"From helping vulnerable youth find their confidence to bringing communities together, this recognition reflects the incredible impact the charity has made across the Bradford district and beyond."

The charity recently held community takeover events at Darley St Market and a 'Read-A-Slam' event at Keighley Library.

It is now preparing for three autumn shows: Chain Reaction on September 25, Souled Out on October 30, and Toyal Rumble on November 27.

The organisation’s NXT GEN programme, which uses wrestling to teach life skills, has returned to schools, colleges, and pupil referral units this term.

Kingdom Wrestling also runs a full schedule of training classes.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos