The Most Hardcore Pro Wrestling Promotion Gets Feature Documentary

IWS Wrestling documentary
Image via @thezackdelusion

Generation Iron to Produce a film on the International Wrestling Syndicate from Canada – IWS

The Generation Iron Network has announced a new feature film documentary exploring the world of IWS Wrestling. Production will begin on March 2nd, 2024 – filming the 25th IWS anniversary celebratory wrestling event. The film will be directed by Vlad Yudin (Generation Iron, The Hurt Business, Ronnie Coleman: The King) and is slated for a global release.

IWS is a professional wrestling promotion based out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada and is renowned as one of North America’s longest-running promotions. It is also widely known for being one of hardcore wrestling’s biggest standouts globally.

Originally founded by Edward Dorozowsky (aka SeXXXy Eddy) as the Dawson Wrestling Federation, Eddy joined with Manny Eleftheriou, mostly known as “Crazy Manny” and a group of friends to form the World Wrestling Syndicate – which eventually evolved into the International Wrestling Syndicate as it is known today and currently aired on PPV with Triller.

The documentary will provide an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look into IWS while also chronicling the 25 year history of the independent but vastly popular promotion.

“We have done a lot of really cool and out of the box docs over the last few years, but the one about IWS Hardcore is going to be insane,” said director Vlad Yudin. He continued, “We are absolutely excited to bring the IWS story to the world.” 

“IWS isn’t just another pro wrestling show – it’s a party. The live atmosphere is unlike any other, and we can’t wait to bring the noise to a global audience,” said Manny Eleftheriou.

Sexxxy Eddy Manny Eleftheriou Andrew Stott IWS

Style of Wrestling

IWS is known for its hardcore wrestling style, which often involves the use of weapons, high-risk maneuvers, and intense physicality. Matches in IWS frequently feature elements such as steel chairs, tables, barbed wire, thumbtacks, and other props to enhance the spectacle. However, IWS also incorporates elements of traditional wrestling storytelling, with feuds, alliances, and character development playing important roles in its programming.

Notable Events and Matches

Over the years, IWS has produced numerous memorable events and matches that have helped solidify its reputation in the wrestling world. These include signature events like “Scarred 4 Life,” “Praise the Violence,” and “Un F’N Sanctioned.” Some of the promotion’s most famous events include hardcore matches featuring notable wrestlers such as Sabu, Rob Van Dam, Sami Zayn, Kevin Steen (now known as Kevin Owens in WWE), and others.

IWS Wrestling

Talent and Roster

IWS has featured a diverse roster of wrestlers from around the world, including both established veterans and up-and-coming talent. While the promotion has often focused on hardcore wrestling, it has also showcased performers with a wide range of styles, from technical wrestling to high-flying aerial maneuvers. Multiple wrestlers who have competed in the IWS have gone on to achieve success in major promotions such as WWE, AEW, Impact Wrestling, and Ring of Honor.

Legacy and Influence

Despite its status as an independent promotion, IWS has had a significant impact on the wrestling industry, both in Canada and internationally. The promotion’s hardcore style and innovative approach to storytelling have influenced other independent promotions and helped shape the broader wrestling landscape. Additionally, IWS has served as a launching pad for many talented wrestlers, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills and gain exposure to a wider audience.

On June 8, 2023, IWS joined the Triller+ SVOD subscription platform that provides both live and archived events. including its weekly show Bloodstream. IWS aired its first live event Scarred 4 Life on July 15, 2023.

The IWS Wrestling documentary will be produced by Vlad Yudin and Edwin Mejia Jr. (Generation Iron, The Hurt Business, Ronnie Coleman: The King) with Manny Elefthriou, and Andrew Stott as executive producers.

IWS Wrestling

Derek Dufour
Derek Dufour has been managing all digital operations on the Generation Iron Network for over six years. He currently manages a team of editors, writers, and designers to provide up-to-date content across the GI Network.