The Origins of Championship Wrestling from Florida: From 1948 to the Rise of a Wrestling Powerhouse

CWF – The Early Years

Before Dusty Rhodes captivated fans and Gordon Solie’s voice became a fixture in Florida homes, Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF) was quietly forming into one of the most iconic wrestling territories in the nation—starting in 1948, long before the Gossetts took the reins.

The story begins with Cowboy Luttrall, a former wrestler turned promoter who saw potential in Florida’s growing cities. In the years following World War II, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami were ripe for sports entertainment. Luttrall began promoting events across the state, establishing Florida Wrestling Enterprises and laying the foundation for what would become CWF.

In 1948, the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) was formed, establishing a network of territories with a shared world champion. Though Luttrall wasn’t one of the founding members, he quickly aligned Florida with the NWA, allowing legends like Lou Thesz to tour through the state.

CWF Early Years

By the late 1950s, a young wrestler and savvy businessman named Eddie Graham began making waves. After arriving in Florida, Graham became a partner in the promotion and ultimately took full control in 1961. He renamed the company Championship Wrestling from Florida and transformed it into a storytelling powerhouse with a focus on technical in-ring action and layered feuds.

One of Graham’s most significant moves was bringing CWF to television via WTVT Channel 13 in Tampa. With Gordon Solie as the voice of the promotion, Florida wrestling reached thousands of homes every week. Solie’s serious, sport-like commentary gave the product credibility, and CWF quickly became one of the most respected promotions in the country.

Throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, CWF launched or developed the careers of countless stars: Jack Brisco, Bob Roop, Mike Graham, Steve Keirn, Hiro Matsuda, and of course, Dusty Rhodes. Rhodes became “The American Dream” in Florida, connecting with working-class fans with charisma and fiery promos.

CWF after 1985

After Eddie Graham’s untimely death in 1985, the promotion was left in the hands of his allies, including Mike Gossett (Mike Graham) and others. However, the wrestling landscape was changing. The WWF’s national expansion put pressure on regional territories, and by 1987, CWF had closed its doors.

Despite its end, the legacy of Championship Wrestling from Florida remains. It was a proving ground for future legends, a master class in southern wrestling psychology, and a beloved institution for Florida fans. Its influence continues to be felt in today’s industry, from training styles to promo delivery and even modern TV formatting.