By Shane Goodman shane@dmcityview.com

A new style of professional wrestling

Most everyone is familiar with the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) style of professional wrestling. There’s the massive cable audience, the flashy attire, the sex appeal, the violence, and, of course, the steroids. But there is a whole other world of professional wrestling, one that also focuses on entertainment and athletics, but is done more for a love of the sport than the money. 

Des Moines-based 3XWrestling recently locked in the Des Moines market with live events downtown each third Friday of the month at inPlay. That’s a big step up for an independent league, which typically holds events in high school gymnasiums or county fairground buildings. And 3X claims its style of wrestling varies from the big leagues, too, with a more family-focused approach. They leave the vulgarities, bra and panties matches and blood baths to Vince McMahon and company. 

Reporter Jared Curtis takes a look at professional wrestling, its rich history and the local growth in this week’s cover story. 

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