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By: Casey Roberts 

casey.roberts@bluegrassnewsmedia.com

 

For Jimmy Walls, professional wrestling isn’t just about body slams and big entrances — it’s about community, purpose and preserving a legacy.

The Lincoln County native and founder of the United States Wrestling Federation (USWF) has spent decades building a reputation as both a respected performer and independent promoter. His vision? Bring back the character-driven, hard-hitting style of old-school wrestling that once captivated generations — and deliver it to fans across Kentucky.

Walls’ journey into the ring began with a chance trip to a wrestling show with a friend, where he met WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy Valiant. That moment led to formal training with Valiant and future work with regional promotions like UWA and SCW. But it was under the guidance of “Fabulous” Danny Fargo at Mountain Wrestling Alliance that Walls’ in-ring persona truly came to life.

Performing as “Rated X,” Walls became a heat magnet — the kind of villain fans loved to boo but couldn’t ignore.

“People loved me. Then they loved to hate me. And then they loved me again,” Walls said, laughing. “I always gave them something to feel.”

Walls has since transitioned from performer to full-time promoter, operating USWF with a clear mission: deliver “wrestling the way you remember it.” Heavily inspired by the Memphis territory days and veterans from USWA and CWA, Walls brings that southern grit and storytelling flair to county fairs, festivals and hometown gyms across the region.

“We try to keep it old-school,” he said. “That’s the kind of wrestling I came up on, and fans around here still love it. We just try to keep that style alive.”

Under his leadership, USWF has become one of the busiest wrestling promotions in Kentucky. This summer alone, the company has scheduled more than two dozen appearances at events large and small — including shows in Lincoln, Garrard, Boyle, and Mercer counties, plus a few trips across state lines.

One of the most anticipated stops on the calendar is the Lincoln County Fair, a show Walls says means a little more to him than the others.

“You always want to give back to your community,” he said. “Wrestling in front of the people you grew up with — that means a lot. From McKinney to King’s Mountain, I’ve tried to keep wrestling alive here.”

That commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed. Walls has been inducted into five different halls of fame, including the Kentucky Wrestling Hall of Fame and the Appalachian Mountain Wrestling Hall of Fame — honors that reflect not only his longevity in the business, but the respect he’s earned behind the scenes as a mentor and promoter.

“To be recognized by your peers like that — that means everything,” Walls said.

At the heart of it all, though, are the fans. From wide-eyed kids seeing their first match to loyal supporters who’ve followed Walls through every character turn and storyline, it’s the crowd that keeps the energy alive.

“I just hope the kids in the crowd become fans like we’ve had for years,” he said. “Wrestlers are out there putting their bodies on the line to entertain. I just hope they enjoy what we do and come back again.”

USWF’s tour continues across the state through the fall, with a mix of returning stars, new talent, and signature moments at every stop.

Remaining 2025 USWF/UCW Fair and Festival Schedule

• June 28 – Western Kentucky State Fair

• July 1 or 2 – Marion County

• July 3 – Hart County

• July 4 – Lincoln County

• July 5 – Lincoln County

• July 8 – Hardin County

• July 9 – Jessamine County

• July 10 – Hardin County

• July 20 – Marshall County

• July 25 – Pulaski County

• July 26 – Mercer County

• Sept. 12 – Garrard County Rural Heritage Festival

• Sept. 13 – Garrard County Rural Heritage Festival

• Sept. 26 – Casey County Apple Festival

• Oct. 4 – Mt. Vernon Bittersweet Festival

For more information on showtimes and appearances, visit USWF’s official social media pages or check with local fair listings.