British Wrestling today announces that Craig Anthony will be stepping down from his role as Chief Executive Officer after seven years of transformational leadership.
Since his appointment in September 2019, Craig has overseen a significant period of modernisation, strategic growth, and operational development across the national governing body. Under his executive direction, British Wrestling successfully launched its 2025–2030 strategic plan, Unleashing Potential, achieved substantial growth in core membership and club affiliations, expanded organisational turnover, and delivered major capital and sustainability improvements at the British Wrestling Academy. His leadership also supported peak performance outcomes on the international stage, including three medals at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Having guided the NGB through a vital phase of modernisation and established robust governance and operational foundations for the future, Craig has decided the time is right to hand over the reins as he prepares to pursue new executive opportunities within the broader sports sector.
Steven Esom, Chair of British Wrestling, commented:
“On behalf of the Board and the wider wrestling community, I want to express our sincere gratitude to Craig for his dedicated service over the past seven years. Craig has led the organisation through an important period of transition, embedding higher standards of governance, driving financial sustainability, and putting strong operational structures in place. He leaves British Wrestling on a firm footing for future growth, and we wish him every success in his next chapter.”
Craig Anthony, commented:
“It has been a privilege to lead British Wrestling over the past seven years and to work alongside our dedicated staff, volunteers, coaches, and athletes. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together, from modernising our operations and rebuilding our membership base to supporting our high-performance pathways. With the 2025–2030 strategic plan now firmly established, the organisation is well-positioned for its next phase of growth, and I look forward to watching the sport continue to thrive.”
The Board will outline interim leadership arrangements and details regarding the recruitment process for a new Chief Executive in due course.
