EFFY has become one of the most popular wrestlers on the Independent scene thanks to his hard work and charisma.
EFFY had arguably the top moment of his career this year when he entered into a feud with Matt Cardona, defeating Cardona for the Internet Championship, ending the historic reign of Cardona.
Business Insider did a profile on EFFY highlighting his journey in wrestling.
The following are excerpts from the feature:
"I've always been a person who wants to poke people a little, but not in a bad way," he told Insider, saying the efforts help provoke perception-expanding private conversations at shows.
Once, Gibson recalled a promoter saying he brought gay people to shows.
"No," he said. "I bring in people who are learning how much fun it is to hang out with gay people."
Despite ongoing struggles across the industry, Gibson saw a change around his third or fourth month of work.
"People who would have screamed slurs at me were buying shirts," Gibson said. "Dads who would have never wanted to talk to me, their kids only wanted EFFY stuff."
Over the years, the connection formed and the resulting revenue showed Gibson that he could live off of his brand without signing with a major player. As one of the first to do so, Gibson urges others to follow suit by showing them how they can make money on their own — even when away from the ring. He believes that effort will further help propel and sustain the independent wrestling boom of the past five or so years.
With fan support and media distribution shifting, Gibson feels he can continue to make a positive impact on his own.
"I'm independent," he said. "I don't need permission from my boss. I don't need permission from the company."
EFFY is set to team with Allie Katch to take on Matt Cardona & Chelsea Green at GCW Blood on the Hills.
