For The Love Of Wrestling (FTLOW) returns to the BEC Arena in Manchester on February 21st and 22nd, 2026. Established as Europe’s largest dedicated wrestling fan convention, the event serves as a central gathering point for fans of global promotions, including WWE, AEW, TNA, ROH, WCW, and NJPW. The 2026 edition continues the convention’s tradition of bringing together talent from the industry’s past and present for a weekend of interactive experiences. Ticket info: https://www.fortheloveofwrestling.co.uk/
A Premiere Destination for Wrestling Fans
Since its debut in 2019, which featured a world-exclusive appearance by The Undertaker, FTLOW has expanded its operations. Originally held at the Exhibition Centre in Liverpool, the event moved to its current home at the BEC Arena in Manchester in 2023. The convention is structured to provide attendees with “one-on-one” access to professional wrestling stars through organized autograph sessions and professional photo opportunities.
In addition to physical collectibles, the event features a robust schedule of stage programming. Attendees have access to up to 20 live panels over the course of the weekend. These sessions, included in the price of a standard entry ticket, allow guests to discuss their professional careers before taking questions from the audience in a live, interactive format. The arena will also feature custom set and prop builds, alongside trade stands and independent artists catering to the wrestling community.
Spotlight: Christy Hemme and SoCal Val
Two prominent figures featured at the 2026 event are Christy Hemme and SoCal Val, both of whom have maintained long-standing roles within the industry.
Christy Hemme first achieved national prominence as the winner of the 2004 WWE Diva Search. Her career includes a significant tenure in TNA Wrestling, where she performed as both an in-ring competitor and a ring announcer. Hemme is currently available for autographs and professional photos throughout the weekend. Her presence in Manchester follows a career that has spanned the industry’s most significant eras of growth in women’s wrestling.
SoCal Val, known professionally as Valerie Wyndham, is a recurring fixture at international wrestling conventions. Having served as a primary interviewer and ringside personality for TNA for many years, she frequently serves as a moderator and host for the live panels at FTLOW. Her role involves facilitating discussions between the audience and the star guests, leveraging her extensive experience as a broadcaster to manage the live Q&A sessions.
The 2026 Guest Lineup
The guest lineup includes: Saraya (Paige), Kurt Angle, Swerve Stickland, Bobby Lashley, Dustin Rhodes, Samoa Joe, Jerry “The King” Lawler, Jim Ross, Kevin Nash, Rob Van Dam, Killer Kross, Scarlett Bordeaux, Billy Gunn, The Sandman, The Great Khali, Darby Allin, Orange Cassidy, Shotzi Blackheart, The IInspiration, Melina, Christy Hemme, Frankie Kazarian, Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake, Earl Hebner, The Blue Meanie, Marty Jannetty, Bushwhacker Luke Williams, Bill Apter and Doug Williams.
Interactive Features and Logistical Information
The convention offers several tiers of engagement for fans. Attendees can bring personal items to be signed or purchase 8×10 photos at the event. Advanced purchase of autograph and photo session “extras” is encouraged, as these can sell out prior to the event. Advanced tickets also grant priority access to queues, which can be significant for high-profile guests.
Beyond the star interactions, FTLOW provides a platform for memorabilia collectors and artists. Trade stands throughout the venue offer event-exclusive items and authenticated signed memorabilia. For fans unable to attend in person, the convention provides options to order signed photographs through their official channels. Click here for ticket information.
