Starting Up a Fed

[AlphaDog_Nick]

Hey guys, I am no new to this thread technically, but I am new in signing up. I have been visiting for quite some time, and just decided to register today.

Anyways, one main question I have on my mind is the Fed's name. Now, I hope that someone can guide me to the answer, but this is something that I have not been able to find anywhere.

Just with like anything else, this is a business, and with a business, you need a license to conduct business, and must register a business name legally, and such. So my question is: Is pro wrestling business the same in the registering aspect as a business like McDonalds would be? Do you need to legally register a federation business name, or can you just set up your federation and assign any name without going through the legal process?

Thanks, just something I would like to be answered.

Also, one more quick question: How, legally, can a fed. play entrance music for the wrestler? Do you, or the venue need to possess a music license to play it? And, can you record it? How does that all work out?

Thanks!

[The SteelDragon]

Most states have a sanctioning body for small business. I'd advise you to check for with them for answers on your first question. I know some promotions consider themselves "clubs" or "organisations" rather than businesses and avoid a lot of red tape that way. Many states also have sanctioning bodies for Wrestling, Boxing, and combat sports that you need to get a promoter's license from, too. (I believe there's a post with every states' Athelitic Commision contact information somewhere in the promoters' section)

To use copy-righted music, you need written permission from the band, composer, or record lable. As long as you're a small time promotion, most of them will let you use their music free or at very little charge. I'd suggest using local bands. I think its good when a wrestler comes out to music that the fans haven't heard before and most local bands are more than happy to get some exposure for their music. (You might even work out a deal with some local bands to give live performances at your shows)

[AlphaDog_Nick]

Yes, I was thinking about using local bands for the music, I thought that was a great idea!

Also, thanks for the tip about the AC, I am going to contact the Massachusetts AS, however, I do not believe that they regulate wrestling.

However, if I call this federation an organization, wouldn't I still need to go through some legal process?

Thanks, and Im sorry, I'm just really confused.

[The SteelDragon]

Texas no longer regulates professional wrestling, but somehow I feel better having a letter from the Texas Athelitic Commission on file saying so.

I'm really not sure what the legal difference between an organisation, a business, and a hobby group are. I do know that some promotions do prefer to be listed as organisations though, so there must be some perk in it somewhere. You should probably check with a lawyer. You might also find some info on the Massachusetts state government website in the business section. www.mass.gov