1FW’s Summer Stage at Center Stage: QT Marshall’s Independent Vision Comes to Life
With MJF, Tony Schiavone, and breakout stars on deck, One Fall Wrestling’s debut in Atlanta could be the most important indie event of the summer.
By Mark O’Brien | @WrestleMobs
QT Marshall has something to prove.
Not to AEW. Not to the critics. But to the fans—and to the next generation of wrestlers who are betting their futures on One Fall Wrestling (1FW).
This Friday, July 26th, 1FW makes its historic debut at Center Stage in Atlanta, a venue rich in WCW and NWA history. It’s a full-circle moment for Marshall, the AEW executive and longtime trainer, who has built one of the most consistent and community-driven indie ecosystems in the Southeast—and he’s done it on his own terms.
“I don’t want AEW to fund our company, because then I lose control,” QT tells The Irish Wrestling Podcast in an exclusive sit-down.
“I’ve seen how people try to get help from Tony [Khan]. I don’t want to be one of those. I’d rather do it the hard way.”
Watch the full interview now on Bodyslam.net’s YouTube Channel
1FW: More Than Just Another Indie
In the past year, 1FW has become a hub for emerging talent, running shows nearly every week across Georgia. Built around graduates of the Nightmare Factory and up-and-coming independents, the promotion combines old-school territory scheduling with modern-day production quality.
Friday’s Summer Stage event is their boldest move yet, with:
- MJF appearing in-ring for a live promo
- Tony Schiavone, returning to Center Stage for the first time in over 30 years
- QT Marshall & The Gunns vs. The Frat House in a main-event six-man tag
- The introduction of the 1FW Breakout Title via a Casino Gauntlet Match
- A long-running feud culminating in a coffin match
- And as QT teases: “You never know who’s gonna show up.”
Tickets available now via Ticketmaster and 1FWLive.com
The Breakout Title: A Platform, Not Just a Belt
QT is careful not to brand 1FW a “developmental” territory. But in practice, it’s become just that — a refined proving ground where talent get real reps, real feedback, and real shots at recognition.
“We’re not giving the Breakout Title to someone from AEW. They’ve already made it,” he says.
“This is for someone who hasn’t. It’s our stamp of approval — a sign they’re ready for the next level.”
The match format? Inspired by AEW’s Casino Battle Royale, but reworked as a Casino Gauntlet — allowing multiple talents to shine in a controlled, showcase-driven setting.
TV Ambitions and Long-Term Vision
As buzz grows, so do questions about streaming, syndication, and expansion. QT says they’ve had internal conversations about going bigger — with real opportunities on the table.
“We’ve got the space. We’ve got the talent. And we’ve got the production team,” he confirms.
“I just want to make sure it looks right. Because once you put it out there, it has to hit.”
The long game? Syndicated TV in Georgia, crossovers with Coastal Championship Wrestling in Florida, and possibly a weekly content model by year’s end.
QT’s Message to Fans: “Come See It Live”
“If you’re in Atlanta this Friday, come check us out.
If at the end of the night you don’t feel like you got your money’s worth—email me at qtmarshall@gmail.com and we’ll make it right.”
It’s not just a wrestling show. It’s a statement. QT’s betting on 1FW the way indie wrestling used to work—face-to-face, town-to-town, with a passionate community at the heart of it.
EVENT INFO
1FW Summer Stage – Friday, July 26, 2024
Center Stage Theater, Atlanta, GA
Ticketmaster | 1FWLive.com
Watch the full interview on Bodyslam.net’s YouTube
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