CIW Tears Down The House At Springfield High!

A very excited crowd of 200 (including a small army of youngsters wearing Lucha masks) saw an exciting night of wrestling at Springfield High School, in Holland, Ohio, on November 12.

Getting things started were Doug Basham, formerly 1/2 of the WWE tag champs, taking on Rocky (local favorite D-Ray 3,000, in a new guise-including a tail!). Basham did a good job of establishing himself as the heel, by insulting everyone, and everything, in sight. The audience returned the "love," cheering wildly as Rocky picked up the win with a roll-up.

Next up it was the "Girls Friends" taking on the Amish Assassin, and Chuck Wagoner in a tag battle. This had a number of comedy spots, including one member of the heel "friends" team unwittingly applying an illegal hold to his own partner. In the end, the bad guys cheated their way to victory. Amish assassin, and his partner, gained some measure of revenge by taking trns applying the dreaded "stink face " to the referee, who got no sympathy from the fans.

local favorite, "New Age Patriot" Brian Castle, who continues to improve with every outing, took the measure of the generically named Chuck Davis with a Samoan Drop, and press.

A six man tag match brought an end to the first half of the show, WWE legend Paul Bearer led one team, and T.K. Parker led the heel team, which included CIW champion Akuma. Bearer's team got the win and stayed in the ring during the 40 minute intermission for photo ops with the fans.

After the break Dick Foley took on U. S. Champ, Dave Dupont, who was accused by CIW's Director of Operations, Percival Friend, a legend in his own right, of stealing the title from Foley in a prior bout. Dupont's manager took exception to this. In the end, not even "Mr. Socko" could save Foley as Dupont eliminated all doubt by getting the win with a Cobra Clutch.

Next up Benjamin Boone and Nate Mattson "The Michigan Brothers" (you can guess how that went over in a crowd where a large number of fans were wearing Ohio State jackets!) took on WWE alums, Doink The Clown and Rosie. The match also featured an "enforcer," a teacher--a very tall teacher who forced Boone and Mattson back into the ring as they attempted to flee!

Rosie won for his team with a samoan Drop and pin.

Time for the main event pitting Abyss, and Crimson, guided by manager Truth Martini, against Rhino, who was clearly at a disadvantage in what was supposed to be a three-way match! The action spilled out of the ring as the three battled all over the field house, and up into the bleachers.

In the end, much to the crowds delight, Rhino picked up the well earned win, and Abyss, and Crimson turned on Martini! this ended the evening, and all the delighted little "luchadores," and their parents went home happy.

Shimmer Women Athletes Taping Exceeds Expectations

October 1st, in Berwyn, Illinois, the Shimmer Women Athletes staged one of the greatest pro wrestling shows, this writer has ever seen! In the interest of full disclosure, let me say that circumstances prevented me, and my companions from staying for the full taping, so I will only describe the matches I saw. I will review the DVD when it becomes available. Now on to the show.

A crowd of 200 knowledgeable, and wildly enthusiastic fans (from many different states, and several foreign countries) packed the old Eagles Club, and they would not be disappointed!

First official match saw Kelly Skater take on Nicky Ross in a good match won by Ross with a roll-up.

Next up, Davita Rose vs Mercedes Martinez. This was a very competitive, hard hitting affair, with plenty of offense by both women. Martinez took the win with a fearsome looking cradle piledriver.

Third match saw Cincinnati, Ohio native Hailey Hatred take on Kalamity. Again fans were treated to fast, hard hitting action! Hatred won with a ferocious powerbomb. In a display of sportsmanship Hatred helped her foe to her feet, and both raised their arms to loud cheers from the fans. At this point, Michigan's Mena Libra, and Melanie Cruise, did a run-in to break up the display of good will (and set up a future confrontation?).

Next up, Sara Del Ray took on Yubi Oka. Words simply fail me: this was simply one of the three best matches I have ever seen! And I have been watching wrestling for more than 50 years. The two women went all out, with spectacular, hard hitting action that told a story, and had fans on their feet and cheering wildly!

After a series of believable near falls, Sara finally gained the victory with a missile drop kick. If she is not the best woman wrestler in the world, who is? Stay tuned.

Next up was an interview segment that saw Impact Wrestling's Madison Rayne, (Ashley Lane in Shimmer) confront former partner Nevaeh. This ended in a pull apart brawl.

The fifth match saw the great Japanese star, Kana, make her debut. That she would play the heel was established by video vignettes (shown earlier) showing her rebuffing efforts by Sara Del Ray, and others, to welcome her to Shimmer.

Her opponent was Mia Yem, and this was another spectacular match with ferocious action, and some spectacular spots. Kana won with a submission maneuver that had me fearing for Yem's safety.

Next up Pro Wrestling Illustrated presented a plaque to Madison Eagle,(Champion of Shimmer Wrestling) recognizing the Australian as the number one woman wrestler in the world. Serena Deeb (formerly part of CM Punk's " Straight Edge society" in WWE) came out to challenge Madison to a title match.

This was a very well done segment, both women were 100% believable in their statements and responses to each other. Selling the importance of the title, and what it meant to them, without brawling, or screaming at each other. This approach made their upcoming match seem like a major, competitive event.

Next Daizee Haze, and partner Tomoka Nakagawi, (Shimmer Tag Champs) came out in street clothes, declaring they didn't have anything to prove, and were" taking the night off." Of course, this idea was overruled, and they were forced to defend against the team of Ayumi Kunihari, and Ayako Hamada.

Again a great match, with a great story propelled by four talented women pushing themselves to the limit. The challengers finally won, when Kunihara, pinned Nakagawi after two brutal looking suplexes. The fans showed their appreciation of all four women's efforts with a "That was Awesome!" chant.

The seventh match saw Nevaeh defeat Asley Lane. My vision was obscured by some one standing in front of me, so I didn't see the winning maneuver.

Next was Cheerleader Melissa taking on Britani Knight. Melissa won with a version of a cradle piledriver. Saraya Knight came out to berate Britani, who fled for the safety of the dressing room!

Match number nine saw Portia Perez take on Jessie McCann. Although Perez was the heel in this contest, she had plenty of supporters! At the seven minute mark, competing chants broke out in support of both competitors. Perez, after faking out the referee, with an attempt to bring a chair into the ring, ko'd her opponent with a chain around her fist that she had smuggled into the ring. Winner: Portia Perez.

Tenth match saw Saraya Knight took the measure of Allison Danger, in a match competed under British rules.

It was at this point that we left. Now for some editorial comments. This spectacular show clearly demonstrated what women wrestlers are capable of delivering when given the time to perform in the ring, and on the microphone. The story telling was excellent, the give and take was top shelf. The athleticism was at an extremely high level.

Can't wait to see them again!

Universal All Pro Wrestling In Toledo: August Show

An enthusiastic crowd of 200 fans were treated to a night of professional wrestling action that featured both the best and the worst of wrestling in the current epoch. An enthusiastic, and talented roster could not entirely overcome shaky booking.

The evening got underway with a confrontation between commissioner Sebastion Maze, and Joe Rodriguez. Joe demanded to be included in the steel cage main event (for the UAPW championship). Maze pointed out that Joe hadn't paid the $5,000 fine levied due to his bad behavior at the last show.

Maze then ordered him to wrestle against Renzo Da Great. Joe secured an early advantage with a low mule kick. Renzo staged a come back, but fell victim to two DDT's. Rodriguez picks up the win.

Next up, newcomer Big Jake South, collided with Rampage. South is a large, powerful youngster, who could be a future main eventer. Rampage gave it his best shot, but after a spinning choke slam, could not beat the three count. Give the "w" to Big Jake!

Third match of the night saw saw Manitoba native, Scotty Fraytown, square off with Michael Zane. The pink clad (an homage to Bret Hart?) heeled it up with gusto. Zane was batterred from pillar to post, but still picked up the win with a well timed "small package," for the pin fall victory.

Last bout before intermission, was a tag battle featuring "The Untouchables," (Jake Frost, and Brent Daniels) accompanied by radio personality (WIOT) Grizzly Brown, taking on a high flying team composed of "The Wild Child," and his partner, Greg (didn't catch his last name).

This was, in my opinion, the best match of the night. The heel team, The Untouchables and the smaller face team performed the time honored tag formula, complete with missed (by the harried Referee) tags, punished heroes, and dramatic comebacks, hot tags, etc.). Wild Child, and his partner picked up the win. And then suffered a beat down by their foes. Undoubtedly setting up a future battle.

After the break, the first odd bit of booking, saw Ice Tre take on "The Homeless Avenger," Dick Nasty, with a third opponent involved. Was it a handicap match? a three-way? No clear declaration. After some intense, if at times confusing, action, Third guy won with a spinning DDT.

Next up: a "Homeless Street Fight," between "Mister Main Event," and Grady. This was a comedy match, complete with whip cream, skid-marked shorts, etc. (somewhere Lou Thesz is spinning in his grave!). I admit I am not a fan of comedy matches, but if you are going to have them. They need to be kept short (in my humble opinion). This one went on way too long, from one end of the large venue to the other. Eventually most of the crowd stopped caring, and the bout was called a draw.

Now it was time for the main event. A short break was needed to set up the steel cage, and UAPW took great pains to make sure it well secured. The combatants were Criss Chambers, and Carnage, Carnage attacked his opponent on the way to the ring and a lengthy brawl ensued, culminating in Criss being put through a table.

Once in the cage, the gladiators waged a brutal war. Both men were bloodied, Chambers was put through yet another table! As both battered and damaged combatants rolled on a mat covered with the detritus of their weapons allowed warfare, Joe Rodriguez entered the ring.

After laying chair shots down on everyone within reach, Joe pinned Carnage, and was awarded the title? Was this a "money-in the-bank" match? The ending was confusing, and distasteful. A word of caution to the booking committee: screw job finishes generate heat in the short term, but can be deadly in the long run. Look at how the Sheik killed the Detroit territory, for an example of this path's perils.

On the plus side the show was well paced, and well thought out. If UAPW can learn from its mistakes, this promotion has a bright future.

Universal All Pro Wrestling Warms Up The Ice House.

UAPW held its first card away from its training school, Glass City Wrestling Academy, on Saturday, June 18, and proved itself to be a "work in progress."

The evening opened with an on-air personality from WIOT, coming to the ring and calling out Dick Nasty (AKA, the "Homeless Avenger"). Allegedly, Nasty had been responsible for some serious injuries to the radio jock, a few years earlier and, in the spirit of letting bygones be bygones, the radio personality wanted to show there were no lingering negative feelings. Now if you have watched any wrestling in the past, you probably realize that this was likely to end badly!

And so it did. As a number of wrestlers joined in a beatdown of Mr. Nasty. Another group of wrestlers made the save before any serious damage was done.

The show officially began with a Battle Royal, featuring most of the roster. There were the usual number of shifting alliances, betrayals, etc. When the number of combatants was reduced to a manageable number, Falon Chase, a woman wrestler, entered the ring and cleaned house. She made quick work of the opposition to gain the victory.

Next up: Rampage vs. Ryan. This bout featured the "crooked ref" gimmick. The ref clearly favored Rampage, counting slowly when Rampage was pinned, and fast when Ryan was in a similar predicament. Of course this was all to no avail, as Ryan picked up the nod.

Third match was a three-way, as Scotty Fraytown took on Carnage and Trey Miguel. This was a hard fought affair that saw the aptly named Carnage pick up the win.

Last up before intermission was Dick Nasty taking on Donner ("party of one"). Lots of punching, and brawling ending up in a double count out.

After the break it was time for "Mr. Main Event" to take on Grady this was total comedy, including whipped cream filled pie plates, and, the old Harlem Globetrotter bit with the water buckets! After way too much comedy for my taste, Grady rolled up his foe for the victory.

Next on tap was "Ice Trey" taking on Criss Chambers . This was a good match, that told a story, and allowed both men a chance to look good. Chambers used a pile driver, and moonsault for the well earned win.

Now it was time for a nod to another era, as "Kamala Jr., looking like a clone of the original faced the challenge of Mr. Fitness. Words fail me as I struggle to describe Mr. Fitness's attire: if I say that it included a bikini top, and 'a too small singlet--well you get the general idea.

Kamala was very powerful, but Mister Fitness had a respectable outing before falling victim to a "splash" from the second rope. This was a very enjoyable match. Kamala could quickly, with the right booking (lots of squashes) be built into a main eventer to build a program around.

Match number eight was a tag bout, featuring Dick Nasty, and Criss Chambers taking on a heel team whose names I missed in all the noise! This was a lengthy match won by Chambers and Nasty.

Time for the main event: a "Lumber Jack" match Pitting the popular Brandon Edwards against bad boy Joe Rodriguez. The two adversaries had a high flying battle. The "Lumberjacks," did what lumberjacks do in these situations: gang up on the good guy! At times; however, the lumberjacks seemed a little confused about what was expected of them. In the end Edwards gained the win over Rodriguez, sending the 150 to 200 fans home happy.

The positives of the show were an enthuisiastic crowd, and a spirited roster of performers.

The negatives: sound quality was poor, booking was loose: the 3 and 1/2 hour show could have been tightened to 2 and 3/4 hours, if the matches had been a little shorter, and tighter.

All -in-all, a successful show for a promotion worth watching!

Three Title Matches and Bloody Brawl At POG 7th Anniversary Showa

Price Of Glory, the" little promotion that could," held it's celebration at Michigan sports camp in Coldwater, Michigan on June 12. The opening tag bout set a high standard for the night, as "Pretty Nifty,"( Jack Verville and Mr. Nifty) took on Ryan Epic and Scott Young.

This was a hotly contested bout as Verville, and Nifty resorted to a number of questionable tactics to offset their high flying opponents. The issue was in doubt until Epic got nailed with a sick looking piledriver that had me wincing! Pretty Nifty established themselves as a team to be reckoned with, with this win.

Next up a three-way match: Uncle Funky vs NinJoe vs "Dynamite" Brian McFeters. This one was interrupted by a mysterious interloper who made quick work of all three. Result: No Contest I guess.

Third bout saw the rough and rugged Sue Jackson take on Bam (this was not an intergender match--Mr. Jackson was apparently the lad Johnny Cash wrote the song about!) In any event Bam scored the win.

The next bout was another tag team match: Mitch Johnson and Tony X taking on Mitchell Taylor and Zach Champ. I was unfamiliar with these two teams. Taylor and Champ were the heels.

Rounding out the first half of the show was a "street fight" match between Mike Musso and Roderick Street. The ring could not contain the enmity between these two men battled their way out of the ring and into the back. They brawled from one room to another, using every thing they could find to inflict damage on each other, including exercise equipment, a leather strap, and every wall or floor within reach!

Eventually they fought their way to the parking lot. Here the bed of a Dodge pick-up served as aring as the battle continued! By this time Street was bleeding profusely. The combatants fought their way back into the building and into a second ring! Here Street proved to be" bloody--but unbowed," as he ultimately rolled up Musso for a hard fought win.

After the intermission, the second half of the card began with a tag title bout between champions Jimmy "The Hype" Shalwin, and Max "Game Boy" Morrison taking on the "Wild Stallyins," Johnny Dynamo and C.J. Otis. The four men held a clinic on how to conduct a tag match. This was wild and wooly. The heelish champions made full use of their arsenal of devious tricks to seem on the verge of winning, but it was the challengers winning the titles as Otis forced Morrison to tap out.

Next up, a "Ladder Match" for the scheduled-to-be -retired POG Chaotic title. Noah Lott was the challenger, taking on his friend (and the Chaotic Champion) Dollar. These two know each other so well that at times we seemed to be watching a chess match as these two anticipated one another's tactics. In the end Lott eked out the win. He then place the retred title belt on Dan Severn's trophy shelf and shoo hands with Dollar.

Time for another tag match! First up, the team of Osiris and "The SI," began to walk to the ring when their foes, Idol Heinze and Magnum Conroy, attacked the much smaller SI with chairs. They targeted his knee, left him in a heap, and attacked Osiris in the ring! Eventually, SI made it to the ring and took a desperation tag from his partner.

SI was at least a hundred pounds smaller than both Heinze and Conroy, and was quickly forced to submit as they punished his already injured knee. Osiris demanded a rematch, thus setting up a story line for next season.

Now it was time for the main event as POG champion, Keith Creme, took on the challenge of Sean Tyler. Creme taunted both Tyler and the audience with his customary insults. The two men waged a heated battle. In the end Tyler won the match, and the title. The new champion celebrated with the audience as the beaten champion fled to the back with a bloody nose!

Price Of Glory will be idle during July, but returns on August 7th to begin season eight!

Clash Wrestling Scores Big with "Back To The Future"

It was a warm Saturday night in Taylor, Michigan. The action in, and around the ring was even hotter, as Clash Pro Wrestling scored big with an imaginative, and innovative night of wrestling.

The event was built around a time machine theme (complete with an unseen Delorean, ala the film, "Back To The Future) complete with a Mad Scientist Ring Announcer.

First bout of the night saw White Ranger draw an opponent from the the time machine, R2TD2. R2DT2 had a robot persona, which he maintained throughout the match, and all the way to the back. White Ranger gave it his best, but fell victim to an old fashioned kick to the face and was pinned.

Next up was Dave Manzo, his foe from the past was "Kamikaze" Keith Calhoun, who emerged in a 1986 edition complete with fanny pack! The crowd was really taunting Calhoun, calling him "Biff," which really incensed him. Manzo, and calhoun put on a solid bout with Manzo scoring the pin after what looked to be a variation of the "attitude adjustment" (slam from a fireman's carry position).

Next was a trip back into more distant eras, as "Caveman" Tyler Elkins (obviously from the dawn of time) saw Matt Cross emerge from the time machine (circa 490 BC) in Spartan warrior garb. Spartan skills proved no match for primitive power as the Caveman overpowered the Greek Warrior with a "Neanderclaw" applied to the mandible, for the victory.

Next up was a "Mosh Pit Battle Royal." With headbanger musical accompaniment by The family. This one was won by N8 Mattson, and included, among others, one of the "Bumpin' Uglies" tag team. It was loud, it was wild, it was a wonder no one got hurt!

Thefirst half of the show concluded with an interview segment featuring Jenny from VH1;s "Rock Of Love" show . Jenny's guest was Simon Dean, former WWE star. When Jenny attempted to ask a question, Dean called her a "dumb blonde," much to the crowd's displeasure. Then Dean called out Clash Champion, Gavin "GQ" Quinn, who credited Simon's system for his success After verbally jousting with the fans, the heels turned their attention to Jenny.

Things looked bad for the reality show star, until, like chivalrous knights of old, tag team partners "Too Sweet" came to the rescue of the damsel in distress! This set up the main event: Dean and Quinn against" Too Sweet." It also led into an intermission and more music from "The Family."

After the break, "H3RD," Tommy Treznick, and Ded Vaughn, took on the challenge of Danny Danger and Josh Thor. But not before mad scientist Treznick presented his "monster" of a partner, with a female monster as a gift! Treznick, et al, took home the win after Ded delivered a pile driver to one of their foes.

Next up was "Ace High" Cameron Skyy, taking on fast rising star, Mena Libra, in an intergender match. This was one of the few miscues of the night. Libra, came to the ring in a walking cast from a fractued foot suffered three weeks ago in Lakewood, Ohio. The "hook" was that Skyy did not really want to wrestle Mena, but she insisted and was eventually flattened! In my humble opinion, she had no business in a wrestling ring with her injury.

Yes, I know there is a long tradition of wrestlers "working hurt." But not all traditions are worth preserving. Working with broken bones can delay healing, and shorten a career! Okay, I'll get off my soapbox now because it is eime for the main event!

The main event was a classic. Simon Dean played "old school heel" to perfection. Gavin Quinn complemented Dean as his partner, as the duo took on the high flying, if smaller tam "Too Sweet."

This was an exciting and satisfying tag battle, as both teams played their roles to perfection, After a back and forth battle, "Too Sweet" gained a well earned win, and Dean and Quinn teased turning against each other, before harmony was restored.

The real winners of the night were the fans, who went home happy after an exciting night of professional wrestling! Kudos to Clash Pro Wrestling for a very successful show!

PCW Holds Exciting Nine Bout Card In Toledo

Headliners Nightclub was the site for Powerbomb Championship Wrestling's best card of the season on Easter! The energy level and intensity was present throughout the night, and the fans responded with enthusiasm. Let's get to the action.

First up were "Big" Jake Smith and Gideon. These gentlemen were making their first appearance in Toledo, so the crowd was unsure who to cheer for. In the end, they didn't cheer for either, as Big Jake picked up the win.

Next, Benjamin Boone took on Tim Horner, Jr. The crowd got into this one! Boone has established himself as a heel, and Horner is a fan fave, so there was no confusion. Both men got in plenty of offense, and Boone seemed on the verge of victory with a Cobra Clutch. However, Horner kicked off the turnbuckle and scored the pin.

Third match of the night was a Tag title match pitting champions Jason "Sharp Dressed Man" Harris and Sebastian Rose (AKA The Gentlemen's Club) against Toledo's own "CIA" Denzell Titan and Black Velvet. This was a wild brawl, with Velvet taking lots of abuse at the hands of the champs. Both teams pushed the referee out of the way, until he finally called for the double DQ.

There was a little confusion as the match seemed over at the bell, but then continued until the ref again called for the double DQ! The CIA attacked the champs and the two teams fought their way to the dressing room. Although I don't usually care for this type of ending, the match quality was so good, that I am looking forward to next month's rematch.

Next up was "The New Age Patriot" Brian Castle, taking on Grizzly Smith. Two large men can lead to a dull match, but Castle has added some high-flying moves to his repertoire! He picked up the nod with an impressive dropkick, and cover.

Last bout before intermission was one of two title matches on the card, with Andrew Chene (and manager Scott Romer) once again defending his title against Fabian A. Graham (accompanied by brother Dr. Jerry Graham, Jr.). Chene and Romer used the old foreign object routine to gain the advantage. Romer flattened Jerry with a blackjack. Eventually, Chene was disqualified! Romer attacked ring announcer Norm Wamer, who demanded, and was granted a match against the nefarious Romer on the next card. Time for the break.

Match number six saw Windsor's Phil Atlas, take on Japanese star, Kyoshi. an excellent match, with lots of action. Atlas eventually gained the winning pin. But we had not seen the last of either man!

Next up was D-Ray 3000 taking on "Sexy" Sean Casey. Another outstanding match, as both men played their roles well! Casey in particular is just an excellent heel, taunting the fans and strutting around like a peacock. Champion Chene came to ringside, distracting D-Ray, who turned around into a superkick from Casey who picked up the win.

Next up was Voodoo Murderer taking on Chris Carnage (with Pastor Pain) in a rematch pitting two large - very large - men in a rematch. Total brawl! Lots of thunderous chops and punching. This ended in a double countout when the action spilled out of the ring!

Time for the main event: Rhino taking on Krimson in a match brought about as a result of Krimson using the "red Mist" to attack PCW Commissioner Angel Bailey on a previous card.

The two battled on even terms until Kyoshi attacked Rhino. Krimson then rolled up Rhino for the tainted victory!

As Krimson and Kyoshi continued their assault, Phil Atlas came out to aid Rhino, and the two faces cleared the ring. Atlas and Rhino demanded, and were granted, a tag match against Krimson and Kyoshi on the next, and final, card of the season.

All-in-all a satisfying night of wrestling. Although there were more inconclusive endings than I care for, it all built to next month's card. That final event will take place at 7 p.m. at the same location on May 22.

It was reported that Bobo Brazil, Jr., is out of the hospital, and receiving therapy. He is expected to make a full recovery. I am sure all readers of this blog will join me in wishing him the very best!

Report From Cauliflower Alley Club Reunion In Las Vegas.

April 18 through the 20th, saw 600 wrestlers, writers, fans and promoters gather for this annual at Las Vegas' Gold Coast. There were so many events that I will have to write this post in several sections.

Part One: "The Bride Wore Tats"

The first official event was the wedding of Sean Dunster and Tanya Lavigne (better known to their fans as "Massive damage," and "Sexy Samantha." Bishop Jason Sanderson was the cleric entrusted with performing the nuptials. About a hundred people attended the ceremony.

Although the powerfully built Groom wore a Mohawk style haircut, he also wear a conservative dark suit. And his Bride, while possessed of the requisite number of tatoos, also wore a traditional white dress. All-in-all it was a touching event, and I know my readers will join me (and the other guests) in wishing the newlyweds much happiness.

Another highlight of the first day, for me, was meeting Jeff Leen, author of "Queen Of The Ring:The Mildred Burke Story." In my humble opinion the best biography of a Professional Wrestler ever written. Still available on Amazon, and most bookstores.

After the Wedding it was time to head to FSW (Future Stars of Wrestling) arena for a card of professional wrestling. The event featured many wrestlers in town for CAC. I can only imagine how these youngsters felt performing in front of an audience that included some of the best known wrestlers of the last several decades.

The card was a twelve bout extravaganza. To accommodate all the workers wanting to appear on the card, we saw a battle royal, tag bouts, three way matches, womens matches, fatal fourways, mixed tags, etc.

Michigan star Noah Lott, and Akron, Ohio's "Sassy" Stephie Sager were both featured and acquitted themselves well. Other highlights included some insane highspots, and breathtaking maneuvers!

My favorite new team was the "Kiwis" an exciting team from New Zealand. They began their match with a synchronized Maori war dance that was exciting to watch, and probably intimidated their opponents, "Cyanide," and Dr. Doom.

The newlyweds, Massive Damage, and Sexy Samantha, celebrated by taking on Sinn Bodhi, and Stacy Carter in a mixed tag match. The latter team picked up the win. In the main event Franco DeAngelo, successfully defended the FSW title against "Lover Boy" Matt Riviera to send the fans home happy

Part Two: Workshops, Awards, and the Baloney Blow out!

On Tuesday morning I attended a seminar presented by Psychiatrist David Riess, and J.J. Dillon, entitled "The Psychology of Faces, Heels, and Turns" this was a very informative discussion of the psychology involved in wrestling. Just one of several workshops offered.

The evening banquet, or "Baloney Blowout," harkened back to a time when traveling wrestlers, short on cash would pool their change to buy bologna, and a loaf of bread to stretch their resources. A number of awards were presented. These included Darling Dagmar, a midget star of decades past, who received the "Womens Wrestling (retired) award. Tom Burke ( Wrestling Historian Award), Michel Martel (Posthumous Award), The Gilbert family: Dad Tommy, Doug, and the late Eddie Gilbert were honored for their storied careers.

Other winners included, Dan Kroffat (Mens Wrestling--Retired). Jack Armstrong received the "Golden Ear Award." Lisa "The Adjuster" Haynes won the "Humanitarian Award," for her work in animal rescue.

Mick Foley was the final honoree of the night, winning the "Lifetime Achievement" award. Foley brought his H.S. Wrestling Coach as his guest. Mention was made of his work with a number of causes and groups.

Part Three: More Workshops, The Banquet, and More Awards

Went to Part 2 of "Faces, Heels, and Turns " seminar with Dr.Reiss, and today's co-presenter, "The Million Dollar Man,," Ted Dibiase. They covered some of the subtleties of successful turns from Heel to face, and vice versa.

After the workshop, it was on to the exhibit hall where the Cribbage Tournament was underway. two time champ Dick "The Destroyer" Beyers seemed unstoppable, until he was upset by a female competitor,Vicki Burdick ! The tournament was finally won by Bill White.

At the final night's banquet award winners included: "Irish" Pat Barrett (International Star). Bruno Lauer (The Manager Award). "Rockin Robin" Smith was honored, as was the Honky Tonk Man, Rick Martel, Amazing Kong (watch for her debut in WWE), and the "Iron Mike" award winner, Sergeant Slaughter.

This ended another CAC Reunion. Congratulations to CAC President Karl Lauer, and his hard working crew for another well run, successful event! Cant wait until next year!

Bloody Brawl Caps Nine Bout Powerbomb Championship Wrestling Card

Headliners was the new venue for PCW wrestling in Toledo, Ohio, and the crowd's hopes were high as the action got underway. Opening bout pitted Benjamin Boone against the Super Ninja. Super Ninja wasn't so super losing to Boone in under two minutes,

Next up, "Handsome" Frank Stilletto took the measure of Cleveland's Phil Esquire via submission.

Norm Wamer, the ring announcer, spoke with commissioner Angel Bailey regarding the status of Krimson. Ms. Bailey had no sooner declared that he was on indefinite suspension, when Krimson came running into the ring threatening both Bailey, and Wamer.

Before he could do anything, Rhino came charging in to make the save and a wild brawl erupted. It took most of the locker room to separate the combatants. Rhino and Krimson will meet on next month's card.

In the third bout of the evening, D-Ray 3000 gained a measure of revenge on former partner The Pit Bull, using a brainbuster to pick up the win.

Match #4 saw local hero, Brian Castle aka the New Age Patriot defeat the masked "Eagle" in quick fashion.

Last bout before intermission, and arguably the best match of the night saw fast rising Phil Atlas take on Chris Korvis in a spirited, and competitive match! Atlas gained the nod with a super kick, and a cover.

After the break, Voodoo Murderer took on Pastor Pain's latest protege, Chris Carnage. This was a brawl before Pastor Pain slipped a set of brass knuckles to Carnage. Carnage used them to ko his foe for the win.

Next up was a tag team title match as champions, the Gentlemen's Club (Sebastian Rose and Jason Harris defended their belts against Toledo's own CIA (Black Velvet and Denzell Titan). Titan was the target of the champions for much of the lengthy match. But in the end it was an unconscious Black Velvet, who was covered by an unconscious Jason Harris for the win. Titan had tried the same bit of chicanery, but was foiled by the referee.

The semi-final bout saw "Sexy" Sean Casey (with Tiana) take on another masked grappler, Tiger Conway. Tiana's interference cost Casey to lose by disqualification.

Time for the main event of the evening as champion Andrew Chene, with manager Scott Romer took on Fabian Graham (late of the Lima Correctional Facility) with brother Dr. Jerry Graham, Jr.. This was a short but bloody brawl. Both men used weapons, a foriegn object for Chene (not spotted by the ref.), and a chair for Graham (spotted by the ref) Graham was disqualified.

It was also reported that Bobo Brazil Jr. suffered a stroke last week, and will be in a Louisville Hospital for at least another week. I know readers of this blog will want to join me in wishing him a full, and speedy recovery!

The new venue, Headliners, is in serious need of a thorough cleaning. A little more heat would have been welcome as well. Cold as it was for the audience, it must have been even worse for the competitors. One hopes it is a work in progress. Next show is April 24th.

Wild Night of PCW Action as Titles Are Won and Chaos Reigns!

It was the night before Valentine's Day, but no love notes were exchanged at Somerset Hall, as violence and double dealing were the order of the night! Let's get to the action.

As the event got underway former WWE, and TNA star, Rhino was introduced. He gave a "thumbs up" to Powerbomb Championship Wrestling, and said he would be available for autographs and photo ops at intermission.

First match of the night saw Chris Carnage (now aligned with Pastor Pain) take on masked man, "The Machine." This was a total squash, as Machine was battered from pillar to post, before being done in by a variant of a sidewalk slam.

Next up was Sean Casey, a blond villain "from Hollywood," accompanied by Kiana, taking on the very athletic Will Esquire. This was an excellent match, with lots of offense by both men, before Casey connected with a "super kick" that turned out the lights on Esquire, and gained Sean the win.

Third bout was a tag team title match pitting "The Gentlemens Club" (Jason Harris and Sebastian Rose) against D-Ray 3000 and The Pit Bull. This was won by the gentlemens' Club. Afterwards Pit Bull turned on D-Ray and left him lying in the ring, declaring "from now on I'm taking care of my own business--I don't need no partners!"

Last up before the intermission, veteran Frank Stilletto took on Tim Horner, Jr. This was a rematch, and after both men got in their spots, Stilletto won with a German Suplex and cover.

After the break, it was time for another rematch as SinD, loser to Amanda Ruffen on a PCW card a few months ago, gained a measure of revenge. After a see-saw battle, the more experienced SinD gained the win with a clothesline and press. The crowd really enjoyed this contest, and both women had lots of fans!

Next up (bout #6) Phil Atlas took on Krimson. This was a great match! Lots of high flying offense before Atlas (sooner or later headed for one of the big two, I feel certain) gained the win. But the real story is what happened next!

Krimson attacked the referee, and when commissioner Angel Bailey entered the ring to dissuade him, he hit her with the dreaded "red mist." At this point Rhino entered to make the save! Rhino declared Krimson's attack on Bailey as "the most disgusting thing I've ever seen!"
He further vowed that "somewhere, someday,"he would deliver the punishment Krimson's actions warranted!

The stage was now set for Bobo Brazil to put the PCW title on the line against former partner Andy Chene. How can I put it kindly, these two have been great competitors but they are reaching a point where their bodies just can't respond like their hearts and minds want them to.
It was both sad and painful to hear the chants of "boring" and the boos that greeted their efforts.

Scott Romer was the guest referee, eventually he pulled out a black jack from his pocket and laid out Bobo (to everyone's relief!). Chene covered the unconscious Brazil, and Romer counted 1-2-3,, for the tainted win! Afterward Romer told the crowd, via the ring announcer, that he was now Andrew Chene's manager!

Now it was time for the main event of the evening! The 420lb "Voodoo Murderer," accompanied by Pastor Pain, came out to loud boos to face Fabian A. Graham (from "The Lima Correctional facility") with Dr. jerry graham, Jr.

This one was wild and wooly. It quickly broke down into a brawl that the referee was powerless to control. Within seconds, Fabian was bleeding profusely, the referee was flung aside by both grapplers, Voodoo Murderer had turned on Pastor Pain, Chris carnage came running out to save Pastor pain! Amid the chaos both VM, and Fabian were disqualified! (at least I think that was the finish, it was hard to be certain amid all the confusion!)

Is Voodoo Murderer turning face(good guy)? Will Bobo get a rematch? What does the future hold for The Pit Bull? Will Rhino get his hands on Krimson? These are just a few of the questions to be answered on next month's PCW card. But chaos surrounds even that, as PCW searches for a venue dor the card tentatively scheduled for the last weekend in March!

Starr-Girls Stage Successful Tournament and Buddy D. Wolfe is a Bad, Bad Man!

February 12th, Adrian, Michigan, saw the Starr-Girls promotion hold their first live card (a benefit for the Adrian Jaycees. It was a one night tournament to establish a number one contender to face SG champion Hellena Heavenly for the title. As the evening got underway, founders Sybil Starr, and Veronika Valentine welcomed the crowd, only to be interrupted by the entry of Buddy D. Wolfe, accompanied by Sojourner Bolt (of TNA fame) and fast rising star, Amanda Ruffen.

Buddy demanded a battle royal be held, with the winner getting a bye right into the #1 contenders bout. The crowd cheered their enthusiasm for this plan, and Starr, and Valentine agreed.

The battle royal was a rugged affair won by Sojo Bolt. The tournament began with SinD facing Veronika. Veronika was game, but no match for the more experienced SinD.

Next up was Amanda Ruffen vs Sybil Starr. This was a competitive match until, taking advantage of a distracted referee, Amanda held Sybil in the ropes and Buddy delivered a punch that allowed Amanda to emerge victorious--much to Sybil, and the crowd's, chagrin.

it was now time for intermission, during which a variety of games and other fundraising activities took place.

After the break, it was SinD vs Amanda, this was a hardfought match with the crowd mostly cheering SinD, although Amanda had a sprited band of supporters as well. This one went back and forth until Buddy pulled a spray cleanser from under the ring and attempted to spray SinD with it. There was a glitch: as Buddy tried to shoot the spray into SinD's face, he sprayed himself, and Amanda instead of his intended target!

Amanda was clearly angry with Mr. Wolfe as they headed to the back. This set up the pairing for the #1 contenders match: SinD vs Sojo Bolt. SinD had to be exhausted by this point, but there was to be no rest for her in her quest for the title! Sojo attacked her at ringside, before they could enter the ring! Sojo battered her foe all around the ringside area!

Only the referee's threat of disqualification forced Sojo to take the action into the ring, where she continued to batter her opponent. Slowly; however, SinD began to mount a comeback. Eventually Sojo tied SinD in the ropes and called for Buddy and his spray bottle.

This was not Buddy's night as SinD ducked and the spray wnt into Sojo's face! SinD quickly rolled up her opponent for the win. SinD quickly lft the ring and Sojo pulled Buddy Wolfe into the ring, where she was joined by Amanda. Together, ignoring Buddy's pleas for forguveness, and mercy, they administered a memorable beatdown to their (now ex) manager. Finishing up by stripping him down to his underwear and hurling him from the ring!

It was now time for the tiitle bout: a well rested champion (Hellena Heavenly) vs an already exhausted challenger (SinD). These two have met before. The bout soon became a tactical affair, with each competitor trying one weapon after another to find the one that would lead to victory.

Finally, after more than twenty minutes of gruelling action, SinD scored the pinfall to win the title! Much to the partisan crowd's delight! As she was presented with the belt, a battered Buddy Wolfe emerged from the back to comfort former champion Hellena and declare "you hillbillies haven't seen the last of Hellena Heavenly, OR Buddy Wolfe!"

The crowd booed Buddy to the back, and celebrated SinD's thrilling, if gruelling, rise to the championship! This lowered the curtain on an exciting night of women's championship wrestling, not "sports entertainment" wrestling!

One can only hope for more live events from the Starr-Girls promotion.

Large Crowd and a Night of Mayhem Usher In New Year For PCW At Somerset Hall!

Well, I found myself on the horns of a dilemma yesterday (January 3, 2011) : both Price Of Glory (Coldwater, Michigan) and Powerbomb Championship Wrestling (Toledo, Ohio) were offering exciting cards! Oh what to do?

Well as Yogi Berra famously advised, "when you come to a fork in the road--take it!" So I went with PWC. I found myself part of the largest crowd ever for a PWC event, more than 250 fans looking for a night of excitement. The ten bout card met everyone's expectations!

First up was Tim Horner taking on Frank Stilletto. This was a well-paced opener that started slowly, and carefully gathered steam as both men got in lots of offense before good guy Horner took the measure of his heelish foe with a roll up for the win. Not to be outdone, Stilletto attacked the winner from behind with a vicious German suplex. This one is not over.

Second bout matched a hulking 300 lb. Chris Carnage (dubbed by some in the crowd as an "evil Hulk Hogan," against Page Cutler in phase one of a "gauntlet match," winner here would take on a second foe. Strictly no-contest as Carnage was simply too big and strong for the outgunned Cutler. The (merciful) end came as a result of a spinning backbreaker.

Second course of the night for Carnage, came in the form of Bob Murdock of Texas who soon had reason to regret leaving the Lone Star State. Another squash, as Carnage polished off his foe with a flying body press (after battering him for a few minutes!). Carnage has the look, and style to go a long way in the wrestling business!

Next up, Sebastian Rose took on the American Eagle. Another squash won by Rose with his variation on the Stunner.

The next event was more competitive as the wildly popular D-Ray 3000 took on a larger opponent in the form of Grizzly House Jones. These two battled on even terms until D-Ray (Fear The 'Fro!) won with a shoulder cradle pin.

Chris Carnage returned to take on the much smaller Andy Chene. The lure for Chene was that if he could get the nod over his larger foe, he would get a title shot against the winner of the main event (Bobo Brazil, Jr. v The Voodoo Murderer). Chene, after a tough bout won the nod with a top rope "frog splash," handing carnage his first loss of the night. It also demonstrated that Chene could beat a larger, stronger competitor.

Last match before intermission saw Brett Michaels look-a-like Sean Casey (with Tatiana) take on Truth Marconi. This one had interference by the valet, crowd taunting, both ways, and Casy using the dreaded "foriegn object" to flatten his foe for the win. Time for intermission and complimentary "Tony Packo Hot Dogs" all around.

After the break, it was time for the Tag Title Match pitting the champions: The sharp Dressed Man," Jason Harris, and his protege, Rodney Van Dorn III (aka "Pit Bull") against the resurgent CIA: Black Velvet, and Denzell Titan. The CIA seemed well on the way to regaining their titles when the ubiquitous Sebastian Rose interfered leading to a dq for the champs. Rose then attacked Rodney!

Harris, rather than assisting his partner, urged Rose on in his depridations! Commissioner Angel Bailey came out and announced that 1) the titles were "held up," 2) there would be a tournaent on the next card (Feb.13) to determine the new tag champs.

Phil Atlas then took on Crimson in a Pier Six Brawl, that saw Atlas bloodied, but ultimately victorious via disqaulification. This feud has a few chapters to go!

Next up was a grudge (falls-count-anywhere!) bout pitting former friends Brian Castle and Benjamin Boone against each other. This was a wild brawl that spilled from the ring into the crowd, on to the concession area and over to the gimmick tables. Much punishment was inflicted by both men, with Castle winning with a body press.

Now the stage was set for the main event as Champion, Bobo Brazil (accompanied by Dr. Graham) came to the ring to face what may have been the biggest challenge of his career, the 420 lb "Voodoo Murderer," managed by the ever unpopular, Pastor Pain.

This was a total brawl, with all 4 principals getting involved. VK was disqualified and turned his attention to attacking Graham. At this point Fabian Aloysius Graham, wearing the same garb as when he "escaped" last month, entered the fray to save his brother. When the dust settled it was announced that the Feb.13th card would feature Bobo Brazil defending against Andy Chene; Voodoo Murderer taking on the apparently now released from the asylum, Fabian Graham, a match for the vacant Tag title, and a return womens match .