An 18-year-old wrestling promoter is preparing to stage his first live professional wrestling event in Stafford this October.
Archie Stubbs will launch his Staffordshire-based promotion, The Stafford Showdown, at the Octagon Events Centre on Saturday 24 October.
The event will feature family-friendly professional wrestling, with doors opening at 5pm before the show starts at 6pm.
For Archie, the event marks the latest step in an interest in professional wrestling which began when he was just two years old.
From wrestling figures to promoting a live show
Archie began buying and selling second-hand wrestling figures at the age of 12.
Two years later, he taught himself how to use a 3D printer and began designing and selling custom wrestling figures.
At 15, he started building a collection of British professional wrestling memorabilia which he now exhibits at events around the country.
His collection has also been shown to professional wrestlers including former WWE champion Jack Swagger, also known as Jake Hager.
Archie then stepped into the ring himself on his 17th birthday for his first professional wrestling match.
He has trained with British wrestler Marty Jones, who was one of the familiar names of ITV’s World of Sport Wrestling era.
Savings invested into first Stafford event
Now aged 18, Archie is using his own savings to launch The Stafford Showdown.
He said the event represents years of work across different parts of the wrestling industry.
Archie said: “This show is something I’ve been working towards my entire life. Everything I’ve done, from collecting memorabilia and creating custom figures to training as a wrestler, has led to this moment.”
He added: “I’m incredibly proud to bring live professional wrestling to Staffordshire and can’t wait to welcome fans on 24 October.”
The event is also being supported by Ben Dyer and Michael Dyer, who Archie credits with helping him turn the idea into reality.
The Stafford Showdown
The debut show is being promoted as an evening of family-friendly professional wrestling featuring live matches and a range of wrestling personalities.
The Stafford Showdown is also looking for local businesses interested in match sponsorship, ring sponsorship and other partnerships ahead of the event.
Event details:
- Saturday 24 October 2026
- Octagon Events Centre, Stafford
- Doors open at 5pm
- Show starts at 6pm
Anyone looking for ticket information can contact Archie Stubbs at apswrestlingfan@icloud.com or 07928 325937.
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