Independent wrestling refers to professional wrestling promotions that operate outside of the major organizations like WWE or AEW. These smaller promotions often feature local talent and provide a platform for wrestlers to showcase their skills, develop their characters, and gain experience. Independent shows can vary in size and style, from small community events to larger regional promotions. Wrestlers in the independent circuit often travel extensively, performing in various locations and building a fan base. This environment allows for creativity and innovation, as promotions may experiment with different match types and storylines. Many well-known wrestlers, such as Seth Rollins and Kevin Owens, began their careers in independent wrestling before moving to larger organizations.