For wrestling fans, Ring of Honor (ROH) was a name synonymous with high-flying action, technical prowess, and a passionate fanbase. From its humble beginnings, ROH carved a niche as a promotion focused on in-ring quality, showcasing some of the best independent wrestlers in the world. But in the ever-evolving world of professional wrestling, things can change quickly. With the recent shifts in the industry, many fans have been left wondering: is Ring of Honor wrestling still in business?
The answer, as you’ll soon find out, isn’t as straightforward as a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ The wrestling landscape has seen significant transformations, including acquisitions, consolidations, and a constant influx of new talent. This article will provide a comprehensive look at the current state of ROH, examining its history, recent developments, and what the future may hold for this once-vibrant promotion. We’ll explore the key events that have shaped ROH, the challenges it has faced, and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.
So, grab your favorite wrestling shirt, settle in, and let’s unravel the story of Ring of Honor in 2024. We’ll cover everything from its ownership to its television presence and the talent that makes it all tick. This should give you a clear understanding of where ROH stands today.
A Brief History of Ring of Honor
To understand where ROH is now, we need to look back at its origins. Ring of Honor was founded in 2002 by Rob Feinstein. The promotion quickly distinguished itself by focusing on in-ring action and showcasing the talents of wrestlers often overlooked by larger promotions. ROH’s early days were marked by a commitment to technical wrestling and a dedication to building a loyal fanbase. Early stars like Bryan Danielson (Daniel Bryan in WWE), CM Punk, Samoa Joe, and Nigel McGuinness helped establish ROH’s reputation for quality wrestling. These wrestlers, and many others, used ROH as a platform to hone their skills and gain recognition.
The company’s focus was on creating a product that appealed to wrestling purists. They offered a refreshing alternative to the more entertainment-focused approach of WWE and the often-chaotic styles of other independent promotions. ROH’s commitment to showcasing talent and providing a platform for compelling matches quickly earned it a dedicated following. The promotion’s shows were known for their fast-paced action, innovative match types, and the development of compelling storylines. ROH also embraced the independent wrestling scene, fostering relationships with other promotions and showcasing wrestlers from various backgrounds.
ROH’s initial success was built on this foundation. The promotion expanded its reach through pay-per-view events and DVDs. This allowed fans across the globe to experience the unique ROH style. The promotion also began to tour more frequently, building its brand and growing its fanbase. ROH’s influence on the wrestling world was undeniable. It inspired countless other independent promotions and helped shape the careers of many of today’s biggest wrestling stars.
Key Moments in Roh History
Several moments stand out as pivotal in ROH’s history. These events helped to define the promotion and shape its trajectory:
- The Rise of the ROH Six-Man Tag Team Championship: This title brought a new dynamic to the ROH product and allowed for more diverse matches and storylines. It gave opportunities to a broader range of talent.
- The ROH vs. CZW Feud: This inter-promotional rivalry brought ROH to the attention of a larger audience. It showcased the intensity and competitiveness of the independent wrestling scene.
- The ‘Summer of Punk’ (2005): CM Punk’s departure for WWE was a significant moment for ROH. It highlighted the promotion’s role as a launching pad for talent. It also tested the promotion’s ability to recover and continue.
- The Acquisition by Sinclair Broadcast Group (2011): This marked a significant turning point. It brought television exposure and financial stability to ROH. It also led to changes in the promotion’s overall approach.
- The Supercard of Honor Shows: These annual events became a staple for ROH. They provided a platform to showcase the company’s biggest stars and storylines.
These moments, among many others, shaped Ring of Honor’s history, solidifying its place in wrestling history.
The Sinclair Era and Television Expansion
In 2011, ROH was acquired by Sinclair Broadcast Group. This was a pivotal moment, bringing the promotion its first consistent television exposure. Sinclair’s ownership provided ROH with financial backing and a platform to reach a wider audience. The move allowed ROH to secure a regular television slot on Sinclair-owned stations. This expanded the promotion’s reach and introduced it to new fans. (See Also: Is Matt Hardy Still Wrestling )
The television deal was a significant step forward for ROH. It provided a consistent presence on television and helped to build brand recognition. ROH’s television show featured a mix of in-ring action, interviews, and backstage segments. The show allowed ROH to develop storylines, showcase talent, and build its fanbase. The television exposure also helped ROH to attract bigger names and build its roster.
However, the Sinclair era wasn’t without its challenges. The need to cater to a broader audience sometimes led to changes in ROH’s style and presentation. Some fans felt that the focus on in-ring quality was diluted to appeal to casual viewers. The promotion faced the challenge of balancing its commitment to wrestling purists with the need to attract a larger audience. Despite these challenges, the Sinclair era was a period of growth and expansion for Ring of Honor. It solidified ROH’s place in the wrestling landscape and provided a foundation for future success.
Key Aspects of the Sinclair Era
- Television Deal: The acquisition by Sinclair brought ROH consistent television exposure, which was a huge step forward for the promotion.
- Roster Expansion: The increased exposure helped ROH attract new talent and build its roster.
- Production Values: Sinclair’s backing allowed for improvements in production quality, making the show more visually appealing.
- Storyline Development: With a consistent television presence, ROH could develop longer, more complex storylines.
- Financial Stability: Sinclair’s resources provided ROH with financial stability, allowing the promotion to invest in its product.
The Sinclair era helped to shape ROH into the promotion we know today.
The Tony Khan Era: Acquisition and Transformation
The wrestling world was shaken in 2022 when Tony Khan, the owner of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), acquired Ring of Honor. This was a monumental shift. It signaled a new chapter for ROH and created significant buzz within the wrestling community. Khan’s acquisition brought several changes to the promotion. He brought his vision for ROH and integrated it with AEW. This included the use of ROH talent on AEW programming and the merging of storylines.
One of the most significant changes was the shift in ROH’s presentation. Khan relaunched ROH with a focus on its legacy and history. He brought back classic ROH stars and reintroduced beloved championships. The move was designed to appeal to long-time fans while also attracting new viewers. The relaunch also saw ROH return to pay-per-view events. The Supercard of Honor event was a major success, showcasing the talent and the potential of the revived promotion.
The integration of ROH with AEW has had a profound impact. ROH wrestlers have appeared on AEW programming, giving them a wider audience. AEW talent has also competed on ROH shows, creating a synergy between the two promotions. Khan’s vision for ROH involves a blend of classic ROH elements with modern wrestling trends. The goal is to create a product that appeals to a wide range of wrestling fans. This has meant balancing the needs of the hardcore audience with the desire to attract new viewers.
Key Changes Under Tony Khan
- Acquisition by Tony Khan: The acquisition by Tony Khan brought ROH under the same ownership as AEW.
- Relaunch of ROH: Khan relaunched ROH with a focus on its legacy and history.
- Integration with AEW: ROH talent began appearing on AEW programming, and vice versa.
- Return to Pay-Per-View: ROH returned to pay-per-view events, including the successful Supercard of Honor.
- Revival of ROH Championships: Khan brought back classic ROH championships and introduced new ones.
The Tony Khan era has marked a significant transformation for Ring of Honor.
Current Status: Is Ring of Honor Still in Business?
The answer to the question, is Ring of Honor wrestling still in business?, is a resounding yes. However, the form and function of the promotion are different than in previous eras. Under Tony Khan’s ownership, ROH has been re-imagined. It exists as a distinct entity but is closely linked with AEW. ROH continues to produce events, including pay-per-views and television shows. The shows feature a mix of established ROH stars and up-and-coming talent. The promotion is also working to build its brand and attract new fans. (See Also: Are Wrestling Uso Brothers Not Related )
ROH’s television show airs on multiple platforms, including HonorClub and various streaming services. This allows fans to watch the promotion’s events and stay up-to-date with the latest storylines. ROH also continues to hold live events, allowing fans to experience the action in person. These events provide opportunities for fans to interact with wrestlers and show their support for the promotion. The future of ROH under Tony Khan seems bright. The promotion has the resources and the talent to continue growing and evolving. The key will be to continue to balance the needs of the hardcore fanbase with the goal of attracting new viewers.
The integration with AEW has brought both benefits and challenges. ROH wrestlers have gained exposure on AEW’s more prominent shows. This has helped to build their profiles and expand their reach. The challenge lies in ensuring that ROH maintains its identity and doesn’t get overshadowed by its parent promotion. ROH must continue to offer a unique product that appeals to its core audience while also attracting new fans. The future of ROH depends on how effectively it can navigate these challenges.
Roh in 2024: Key Aspects
- Television and Streaming: ROH has a consistent presence on television and streaming platforms, allowing fans to watch its events.
- Live Events: ROH continues to hold live events, providing opportunities for fans to experience the action in person.
- Talent Roster: ROH boasts a talented roster of wrestlers, including both established stars and up-and-coming talent.
- Storyline Development: ROH continues to develop compelling storylines, keeping fans engaged.
- Integration with AEW: ROH is integrated with AEW, allowing for cross-promotion and collaboration.
Ring of Honor is actively operating and is a part of the professional wrestling landscape.
The Roh Roster: Who’s in the Ring?
The ROH roster is a mix of established veterans and rising stars. The promotion has a diverse group of wrestlers, each bringing their unique style and skill to the ring. The roster includes wrestlers from various backgrounds and experiences. This creates a dynamic and exciting product. The talent pool is constantly evolving as new wrestlers join the promotion and existing wrestlers develop.
Several key wrestlers have become synonymous with ROH. These wrestlers have consistently delivered high-quality matches and have helped to build the promotion’s reputation. They are the backbone of the promotion. Some wrestlers have a long history with ROH and have helped to define its style. They represent the legacy of ROH and its commitment to in-ring excellence. Other wrestlers are newer to the promotion but are quickly making their mark. They represent the future of ROH and its ability to attract and develop new talent.
The ROH roster also includes wrestlers who regularly appear on AEW programming. These wrestlers benefit from the exposure that AEW provides, and they help to build excitement for ROH events. The collaboration between ROH and AEW allows for a wider range of talent to be showcased. It also creates more opportunities for compelling matches and storylines. The roster is a key asset for ROH. It is what makes the promotion’s product unique and appealing.
Notable Wrestlers in Roh
Here are some of the notable wrestlers who are currently appearing in Ring of Honor:
- Claudio Castagnoli: Known for his incredible strength and technical ability.
- Bryan Danielson: A former ROH World Champion, now a major star in AEW.
- Samoa Joe: Another former ROH World Champion and a dominant force.
- The Briscoes: A legendary tag team that was integral to ROH’s history. (Sadly, Jay Briscoe passed away in 2023).
- Dalton Castle: A charismatic performer and former ROH World Champion.
- Eddie Kingston: A gritty and intense wrestler who brings a lot of heart to his matches.
- Wheeler Yuta: A rising star known for his technical skills.
- Athena: A dominant force in the women’s division.
The current roster showcases a combination of established stars and up-and-coming talent. (See Also: Has Pro Wrestling Always Been Fake )
How to Watch Ring of Honor
Watching Ring of Honor is easier than ever, thanks to the various platforms where the promotion’s events are available. The primary way to watch ROH is through HonorClub, the promotion’s subscription service. HonorClub offers a variety of benefits, including live streams of ROH events, access to the ROH video library, and exclusive content. This is the best way to support the promotion and experience its events live.
ROH events are also available on pay-per-view. This allows fans to purchase and watch individual events without a subscription. Pay-per-view events typically feature the biggest matches and storylines. They are a great way to experience the excitement of ROH’s major events. ROH’s television show airs on various channels and streaming platforms. This provides another way for fans to watch the promotion’s events and stay up-to-date with the latest storylines. The television show features a mix of in-ring action, interviews, and backstage segments.
The availability of ROH on multiple platforms makes it accessible to a wide audience. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the promotion, there are plenty of ways to watch and enjoy ROH. The various viewing options allow fans to choose the method that best suits their needs and preferences. The accessibility of ROH is a key factor in the promotion’s success. It allows ROH to reach new fans and expand its audience.
Ways to Watch Roh
- HonorClub: The official subscription service for ROH, offering live streams, a video library, and exclusive content.
- Pay-Per-View: Individual ROH events can be purchased on pay-per-view.
- Television and Streaming: ROH’s television show airs on various channels and streaming platforms.
There are multiple ways to watch Ring of Honor and experience the wrestling action.
The Future of Ring of Honor: What’s Next?
The future of Ring of Honor appears promising. The promotion is under the leadership of Tony Khan. It is integrated with AEW, and has access to resources and talent. The focus is on building the ROH brand and attracting new fans. The key to the future is to balance the needs of the hardcore fanbase with the goal of attracting new viewers. The promotion must continue to offer a unique product that appeals to its core audience while also expanding its reach.
The continued integration with AEW will play a significant role in ROH’s future. The cross-promotion allows for a wider range of talent to be showcased and creates more opportunities for compelling matches and storylines. The goal is to build a cohesive wrestling universe. This will benefit both promotions and create a more engaging experience for fans. The use of ROH talent on AEW programming and vice versa will continue to be a key strategy.
ROH’s success will depend on its ability to evolve and adapt to the changing wrestling landscape. The promotion must stay true to its core values of in-ring quality and a focus on compelling storytelling. ROH must also embrace new technologies and platforms to reach a wider audience. The future of ROH is in the hands of its leadership, its talent, and its fans. The combination of these factors will determine the promotion’s long-term success. The potential for growth and innovation is significant.
Key Factors for Roh’s Future
- Continued Integration with AEW: The collaboration between ROH and AEW will be crucial for the promotion’s success.
- Focus on In-Ring Quality: ROH must maintain its commitment to high-quality wrestling.
- Storyline Development: Compelling storylines will keep fans engaged.
- Talent Development: ROH must continue to develop and showcase new talent.
- Expansion and Innovation: Embracing new technologies and platforms will be important for expanding the audience.
The future of Ring of Honor looks bright, with exciting possibilities ahead.
Final Verdict
So, is Ring of Honor wrestling still in business? Absolutely. While the promotion has undergone significant changes, including ownership and integration with AEW, it remains an active and vibrant part of the wrestling world. It’s a testament to its legacy and the dedication of its fans. The future of ROH looks promising, as it continues to build upon its rich history while adapting to the modern wrestling landscape. With a talented roster, a dedicated fanbase, and the backing of Tony Khan, Ring of Honor is well-positioned to continue entertaining wrestling fans for years to come.
The story of Ring of Honor is one of resilience, innovation, and a passion for professional wrestling. It’s a story that continues to unfold, with new chapters being written every week. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new viewer, there’s never been a better time to experience the excitement of Ring of Honor. The promotion offers a unique and compelling product that is sure to captivate wrestling fans of all stripes.
