WrestleFest

1. What Is a WrestleFest?

WrestleFest is the real-world gathering of the global MeetFighters.com community—where online connections become physical, friendly, and fun matches. It brings together fighters of all levels for open mats, social events, and shared passion for combat sports. In 2025 alone, four WrestleFests took place across Europe and North America, reflecting the community’s rapid growth.

2. History of WrestleFest

Born from grassroots meetups between combat-sport enthusiasts, WrestleFest has evolved into an international series of volunteer-driven events. Over the years, each host city has added its own character— New York with its long-standing wrestling tradition is the birthplace of WrestleFest. Toronto - The first city to replicate the event, proving that building off the original model was viable for new cities. Berlin with its inclusive queer focus. Chicago - The latest city to hold a large event and helping shape the format for new cities. What began as small informal gatherings has become a global movement that unites fighters through sport, camaraderie, and shared identity.

3. Perfect for Newbies

WrestleFests are great for beginners, offering an entry into wrestling, submission grappling, and physical play. Experienced participants gladly help newcomers build skills, confidence, and comfort—whether their interest is sporty, erotic, or self-defense-oriented. You can come as you are, learn at your own pace, and discover the style of wrestling that fits you.

4. Empowerment

For LGBTQ+ participants, WrestleFest creates a rare space where strength, physicality, and identity coexist without judgment. It empowers individuals to embrace their bodies, connect with community, and express themselves through combat sports. Many describe it as transformative: a place where confidence grows, friendships form, and authentic self-expression is celebrated.

5. Independently Organized, Supported by MeetFighters, Sponsored by WatchFighters

Each WrestleFest is independently organized by local volunteers who shape the event to their city and community. At the same time, MeetFighters.com provides essential visibility, infrastructure, and platform support to help organizers succeed. WatchFighters.com supports organizers financially, helping cover a large part of the event expenses. This combination of independence and shared community makes the WrestleFest network vibrant, diverse, and sustainable.