GARETH 'ANGEL' THOMPSON

Gareth Thompson’s story is a masterclass in resilience, visionary leadership, and the power of transformation. As the driving force and founder of Kingdom Wrestling, Gaz has pioneered a groundbreaking movement that merges the high-octane spectacle of professional wrestling with

the life-changing message of hope.

 

Forged in Adversity

Gaz’s journey to leadership was forged in the toughest of environments.

He has overcome profound personal obstacles, coming from a fatherless, broken home marked by neglect, alcoholism, poverty, bullying, and sexual abuse. By age 15, he was homeless and living in a skip. He navigated a turbulent young adulthood, escaping a homeless hostel before eventually finding his footing. His life radically shifted when he was introduced to a local church, began his professional wrestling training, and experienced a powerful, life-altering moment of forgiveness with his abuser—moving him to dedicate his life to Jesus.

 

From the Frontlines to Founding a Movement

Turning his energy toward lifting others out of the struggles he survived, Gaz spent seven impactful years with Christians Against Poverty (CAP). Working both at their Bradford head office and on the front lines, he managed a Debt Centre and Job Club. His unique ability to connect with people and share his story saw many find faith, earning him a feature in a BBC 2 documentary. Recognising a unique opportunity to reach those who might never step foot in a traditional church, Gaz launched GT Ministries in 2018. By combining his established career as a professional wrestler with his faith, he toured the UK to roaring success, using the ring as a platform to change lives.

 

Strategic Leadership & National Expansion

Gaz’s professional trajectory accelerated in 2022 when he left CAP to plant the first "Wrestling Church" in the heart of Bradford. Blending body slams with baptisms, the initiative was a resounding success, leading to another BBC documentary and undeniable community impact.

Driven by a growing vision, Gaz strategically scaled the ministry. In late 2023, GT Ministries transitioned into Kingdom Wrestling, officially launching as a national charity. Under his executive leadership, the organisation has experienced explosive growth:

• National Reach & Media Profile: Kingdom Wrestling has captured the attention of international media, featuring on the BBC, SKY, ITV, Channel 5, and The Times. Gaz even took his mission live on-air, famously wrestling presenter Jeremy Vine in the BBC studio.

• Scaling Operations: He has successfully expanded the charity's physical footprint, leading the charge to secure dedicated operational offices and larger venues to accommodate the organisation's rapid growth.

• Pioneering Initiatives: Gaz spearheaded the launch of regional "Takeover" events touring the UK. He also established a wrestling training academy to build confidence and discipline in youth, and partnered with student referral units to support vulnerable teenage boys, alongside mentoring youth in AP settings.

• Community Impact: His leadership has fostered a flourishing, unconventional congregation, resulting in over 30 baptisms in the church's first few years and the launch of "The Forge", a church in the basement of a local pub, for deeper spiritual discipleship.

 

The Man Behind the Mission

Today, Gaz remains at the very forefront of urban mission. While he still performs at a championship level as his in-ring alter ego, "Gareth Angel", his primary focus is on expanding Kingdom Wrestling's impact. He is a highly sought-after speaker at men’s breakfasts, schools, churches, conferences, and podcasts, constantly pioneering new concepts to reach the marginalised. Above all, Gaz is a devoted husband and a proud father.

His life is a testament to the fact that no matter where you start, authentic leadership and faith can rewrite the ending.

 

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