Ryan Clancy Crowned the 17th IWTV Independent Wrestling World Champion
A new chapter begins on the 8-year anniversary of the championship’s debut
Eight years to the day after IWTV crowned its first champion, a new name has been etched into the title's storied lineage. On October 20, 2025, at Wrestling Open RI in Cranston, Rhode Island, “Fancy” Ryan Clancy defeated Marcus Mathers to become the 17th IWTV Independent Wrestling World Champion.
The milestone comes as October 22nd marks eight years since Jonathan Gresham became the inaugural champion in 2017. The title was later recognized as a World Championship by Pro Wrestling Illustrated on August 8, 2021, cementing its place among the most respected prizes in independent wrestling.
Champions Through the Years
Jonathan Gresham, Tracy Williams, Orange Cassidy, Kris Statlander, Erick Stevens, Warhorse, Lee Moriarty, Wheeler Yuta, Alex Shelley, AC Mack, Krule, Matt Tremont, Alec Price, Marcus Mathers, and now Ryan Clancy
Passing the Torch
Marcus Mathers’ reign ends at 294 days, with 21 championship defenses across promotions like Beyond, ETU, CZW, and Focus Pro.
In his closing message, Mathers reflected on his time as champion and his friend’s historic win:
“Independent Wrestling World Champion.
Last year, no one asked me to but I called out Krule anyway. I did it because I wanted to stand up and be the face of the independents. Every single day since, I’ve pushed myself to be better than yesterday and to make my dreams and goals a reality.
Over 293 days, I defended the IWTV Championship 21 times and even saw WWE highlight my reign online and on Tubi. Title or not, I still carry the spirit of the independents with pride, hoping to inspire others through my dedication and work ethic.
The championship is now in great hands. My best friend Ryan Clancy embodies everything that makes a great champion. I couldn’t be prouder to see him carry that torch.
Thank you to IWTV, Beyond, Open, ETU, C4, ISW, IGB, Focus Pro, and CZW for being part of this journey.”
The Fancy Era Begins
After his win, Clancy expressed his gratitude and excitement in a heartfelt message to fans:
“What an incredible 48 hours it has been for The Fancy Man.
An overwhelming amount of love and support and I couldn’t be more grateful.
I promise I will do right and be an Independent Wrestling World Champion you all can be proud of!”
Known for his traditional wrestling style, Clancy represents a blend of old-school discipline and modern-day polish, the perfect ambassador for the independent scene as it enters its next chapter.
Upcoming Title Defenses
Clancy’s reign has only just begun, but he’s wasting no time proving himself. His first scheduled defense is this Thursday night at Wrestling Open, followed by a title defense at DOA Pro Wrestling’s “The Threat Within” on Saturday, November 8, in Portland, Oregon, where he’ll face Amira.
Both events, including the replay of his championship win, stream exclusively on IWTV.live. Subscribers can catch every defense live or on demand.
Watch the Next Era Unfold
The IWTV Independent Wrestling World Championship continues to stand as the proving ground for the very best on the scene today, and “Fancy” Ryan Clancy now holds the crown.
You can stream Ryan Clancy’s title win and all upcoming IWTV Championship defenses now at IWTV.live.
Photo Credit; Jon Washer