MPW presented a three hour show at Wyandotte MI's ARC Hall on May 15th. A number of titles were in play, so lets get to it.
The card literally opened with a big match as two four hundred pound competitors saw action. Big Chuck took on the Mongolian Butcher. Big Chuck got the win when the Butcher was disqualified due to a run-in by Doomsday who attacked Chuck with a kendo stick.
Match number two saw "Gutter" take a win over Xavier Justice via a Boston Crab tap out.
In the third contest of the night "Sweet" Willie Wates (with "Lita Libra")using an effeminate ring persona took on Tommy Taznick (with Cameron Sky). All four got involved in the action, but Taznick picked up the win when Sky used a loaded forearm brace to ko "Sweet" Willie.
In the last match before the intermission, Andy Muscat took the measure of Mark Chojka with a frog splash and body press.
After the break, A "Tag Team Battle Royal" got things underway again. Frankly the action was a little hard to follow at points. Competitors included Johnny Scarbone, The Bumpin Uglies, DBA and Jason Platinum, Vinnie Scarbone, among others. I will have to list the winners later as I didn't catch their names.
Next up was the "Motor City Machine Gun," Mike Kelly defending the PWL TV championship against challenger "Doomsday." This was quite a brawl. Kelly picked up the win via dq due to interference by the Mongolian Butcher. This sets up a tag battle pitting Kelly and "Big Chuck" against "Doomsday" and the Butcher on the next card.
Match number seven saw Joseph Schwartz (The Hebrew Hammer) take on Nate Mattson. This match started with some comedic bits including an audience participation bit where crowd was asked to name famous Jewish wrestlers (Goldberg and Barry Horowitz were mentioned). These two talented performers put on a good match, but there was no crowd heat for this one, as Mattson picked up the win with a figure four leglock.
Mr. Nifty then took on Adam Reynolds (with "Game Boy" Max Morrison) the stipulation was that if Nifty won Reynolds would give him a title shot on the next MPW card. Nifty won with a roll up setting up the title match.
In the semi final contest NCWA Champion Jason Harris (aka the "Sharp Dressed Man")put the title on the line against Kevin Thorn. Harris started by cutting a heel promo that set up the opportunity for Thorn to rally support by declaring that the audience was his family, and he wouldn't let Harris get away with insulting his (KT) "family."
harris played the "chicken heel" to perfection running from the challenger, and fleeing th ring at any sign of danger. Harris was disqualified for sluggin Thorn with the NCWA belt. Thorn gained a measure of revenge by flattening the champion.
The main event pitted Eddie Venom against MPW champion Jaimy Coxx, in a "Table Match" The only way to win was to put your foe through a table. This was a wild affair that saw Venom bleed, and get put through a table! Unfortunately for the champion the referee was unconscious at this point and couldn't issue the decision. Venom and his manager cleared the ring of the broken table, and brought in another table.
Of course now the ref had revived and declared Venom victorious when he put Coxx through the second table! Can you say rematch?
Next MPW card is slated for July 10th.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Sunday, May 9, 2010
WWA Holds Final Card Of The Season
May 9th's card at Somerset Hall in Toledo, will be last for a few months. Feuds were concluded, and the seeds were planted for future conflicts at tonight's event promoted by Dr. Jerry Graham, Jr. Now to the action.
First up: Halloween, a local favorite, took on Brandon Edwards. A few comedy spots to get things underway as Edwards efforts caused more pain to him than his elusive foe. This was followed by an exchange of chops which led into a fast paced exchange of holds. A couple of botched spots, which fortunately did not result in injury. Halloween used a "roll up" to pick up the win.
Next up was Denzell Titan, 1/2 of the tag champs, "The CIA," announced that his partner "Black Velvet" sufferred a broken leg in a match in Japan. Denzell took on the much larger Will Studd (former WWA champ) setting up a classic syrength vs. speed contest. Although Studd used his strength to dominate much of the action, speed won out as Titan used a version of the codebreaker, and a roll up to get the nod.
Third bout saw Brian Ziggler take "The New Age Patriot," Brian Castle. This one started a little slowly, as Ziggler spent a lot of time baiting the crowd for some cheap heat. Eventually Castle nailed a Russian Leg Sweep and cover for the win.
After a short intermission, Pastor Pain took on Sebastion Rose in a grudge match. Pain picked up the win when his former protege was disqualified, but this pairing could play out again in the future as nothing was really resolved.
Match number 5 demonstrated how audiences can alter the booking of a match. Dan Boone, who was booked as a face, took on the always heelish Crimson. For whatever reason, the crowd chose to back Crimson ( a Sting look-a-like) and rejected Boone's efforts to earn their support. Crimson picked up the win by forcing Boone to tap out to an arm lock.
The fall out came when Andy Chene came out to cut a promo on Crimson. The crowd booed Chene, a face, and cheered the heel Crimson! It will be interesting to see how this is booked when WWA returns in the Fall.
The sixth bout saw favorite "D-Ray 3,000" take on "the Sharp Dressed Man," Jason Harris, and "Pitt Bull" on a handicap match. This was actually a pretty good match as D-Ray weathered the onslaught of his opponents to eventually pin Pitt Bull.
Now it was time for the main event. Bobo Brazil, Jr.(seconded by Dr. Graham) defended the title against the 420 lb "Baba Tunde" (from the wilds of Mt Kilimanjaro)who was, as always, led to the ring wearing a hood, by Pastor Pain, and Jungle Jane.
Pain immediately whacked Dr. Graham with "the book," as Babatunde seized the early advantage with the dreaded "foriegn object." The action was in and out of the ring. Brazil gained control of the foriegn object and began to dominate the action in spite of Pain, and Jane's best (worst?) efforts to cheat on behalf of Babatunde.
At one point, all three seconds were in the ring, and Jungle Jane planted a kick into Graham's belly. As the ref forced Jane and Pain to leave the ring. Graham threw Babatunde's hood over the wild man's head, rendering him passive and helpless as Brazil polished him off with a head butt and pin.
In the ensuing melee, the furious heels attacked Graham and Brazil. In a bit that bypassed the '90s, the 80s, and the 70s, Jungle Jane, after trying to belt Graham with a chair, found herself pulled over his lap and spanked. The crowd of about a hundred was delighted.
Local fans can watch WWA Superstars on cable ch 69 at midnight, on saturdays, for future plans.
First up: Halloween, a local favorite, took on Brandon Edwards. A few comedy spots to get things underway as Edwards efforts caused more pain to him than his elusive foe. This was followed by an exchange of chops which led into a fast paced exchange of holds. A couple of botched spots, which fortunately did not result in injury. Halloween used a "roll up" to pick up the win.
Next up was Denzell Titan, 1/2 of the tag champs, "The CIA," announced that his partner "Black Velvet" sufferred a broken leg in a match in Japan. Denzell took on the much larger Will Studd (former WWA champ) setting up a classic syrength vs. speed contest. Although Studd used his strength to dominate much of the action, speed won out as Titan used a version of the codebreaker, and a roll up to get the nod.
Third bout saw Brian Ziggler take "The New Age Patriot," Brian Castle. This one started a little slowly, as Ziggler spent a lot of time baiting the crowd for some cheap heat. Eventually Castle nailed a Russian Leg Sweep and cover for the win.
After a short intermission, Pastor Pain took on Sebastion Rose in a grudge match. Pain picked up the win when his former protege was disqualified, but this pairing could play out again in the future as nothing was really resolved.
Match number 5 demonstrated how audiences can alter the booking of a match. Dan Boone, who was booked as a face, took on the always heelish Crimson. For whatever reason, the crowd chose to back Crimson ( a Sting look-a-like) and rejected Boone's efforts to earn their support. Crimson picked up the win by forcing Boone to tap out to an arm lock.
The fall out came when Andy Chene came out to cut a promo on Crimson. The crowd booed Chene, a face, and cheered the heel Crimson! It will be interesting to see how this is booked when WWA returns in the Fall.
The sixth bout saw favorite "D-Ray 3,000" take on "the Sharp Dressed Man," Jason Harris, and "Pitt Bull" on a handicap match. This was actually a pretty good match as D-Ray weathered the onslaught of his opponents to eventually pin Pitt Bull.
Now it was time for the main event. Bobo Brazil, Jr.(seconded by Dr. Graham) defended the title against the 420 lb "Baba Tunde" (from the wilds of Mt Kilimanjaro)who was, as always, led to the ring wearing a hood, by Pastor Pain, and Jungle Jane.
Pain immediately whacked Dr. Graham with "the book," as Babatunde seized the early advantage with the dreaded "foriegn object." The action was in and out of the ring. Brazil gained control of the foriegn object and began to dominate the action in spite of Pain, and Jane's best (worst?) efforts to cheat on behalf of Babatunde.
At one point, all three seconds were in the ring, and Jungle Jane planted a kick into Graham's belly. As the ref forced Jane and Pain to leave the ring. Graham threw Babatunde's hood over the wild man's head, rendering him passive and helpless as Brazil polished him off with a head butt and pin.
In the ensuing melee, the furious heels attacked Graham and Brazil. In a bit that bypassed the '90s, the 80s, and the 70s, Jungle Jane, after trying to belt Graham with a chair, found herself pulled over his lap and spanked. The crowd of about a hundred was delighted.
Local fans can watch WWA Superstars on cable ch 69 at midnight, on saturdays, for future plans.
Monday, May 3, 2010
"Chaos In Coldwater"
It was a night of action, and surprises at the Price Of Glory show in Coldwater, MI, omn May 2. The regular videographer/soundman had car problems and couldnt make it, which meant more subdued entrances for this show.
The curtain raiser featured Mister Nifty (from "Niftyville," of course) taking on Sean Tyler. This featured fast paced back and forth action, with neither holding a clear advantage. Finally a frustrated Nifty, began tossing chairs into the ring, in the chaos that ensued, as various others got involved,including Tyler's tag partner, Joseph Schwartz.
While the ref was otherwise occupied, Nifty tossed a chair to Schwartz, and then fell to the mat with a groan, selling a chair shot that never happened. The ref seeing the apparently stricken Nifty, thrashing about on the mat, and Schwatz with a chair signalled a disqualification, awarding the match to Nifty (who also qualifies for June;s tournament for the chaotic cahampionship.
Up next was an intergender match betweeh winless (0 and 10) Ryan Epic, and the "first lady of POG," Sybil Starr. It wasn't much of a contest as the scintillating Sybil slapped her opponent during the introductions, low-blowed him as the match got underway, then polished him off with a crossface in about a minute and a half.
Next up was an interview segment featuring "moisture moment" Jack Veasey, and "Mild Mannered Matt interviewing Defiance, Ohio's own "The SI." You had to be there.
The third match saw Jonny Lawless and Noah Lott bring down, if not the house at leat the ring! During the action the middle rope fell loose! In the end Noah Lott prevailed with his finisher called, of course, "Noah's Arc."
Hard Core Harry then wandered out with a bag of tools for his match with Hardcore Harley. Only problem was that that bout is scheduled for June! Harry insisted that the ref declare him the winner, before he would leave,
next up Jamie P., a former POG commissioner led the "Hollow Souls" to the the ring to face a pair of masked opponents. The souls won, pinning "Pedrosis." Pedrosis then unmasked revealing--Ryan Epic! This was Epic's second loss of the night. On that note, it was time for intermission.
After the break, Joseph "Hebrew Hammer" Schwartz challenged Jimmy Shalwin, the POG champion (accompanied by Max Morrison). After Schwartz dominated the action, Shalwin gained the tainted win by spitting the tainted Kool Aid into Schwartz's eyes.
In the match of the night, Keith Creme, anf "Chill" Jack Verville, wnt to an old school, scientific draw. Creme proved t be a master tactician, and Verville no slouch. The crowd chanted for "five more minutes." The announcer declared that, rather than "five more minutes," both would advance to the chaotic tournament.
Next up: the Hollow Souls got their shot at tag champs, Idle Heinz, and Osiris. This proved the wisdom of the old saying: be careful what you ask for! The champs proved way too powerful for the souls who were pretty much squashed by the powerful champs.
It was noe time for the main event match pitting "Michigan's only Masked Monster," Jamie Eternal, against the popular "Dollar." This was a real "slobber knocker"--as Jim Ross would say, and ended with both being counted out. It took most of the locker room to keep these two apart. Champ Shalwin rejoiced "they both lost, so I get next month off!"
He was indignant when informed that rather having a bye for the next show, he would have to defend against both Dollar, and Eternal. That's right. On June 3rd, it will be a three-way match for the POG title. On that exciting note, the announcer thanked us all for coming, and a thoroughly happy crowd dispersed.
The curtain raiser featured Mister Nifty (from "Niftyville," of course) taking on Sean Tyler. This featured fast paced back and forth action, with neither holding a clear advantage. Finally a frustrated Nifty, began tossing chairs into the ring, in the chaos that ensued, as various others got involved,including Tyler's tag partner, Joseph Schwartz.
While the ref was otherwise occupied, Nifty tossed a chair to Schwartz, and then fell to the mat with a groan, selling a chair shot that never happened. The ref seeing the apparently stricken Nifty, thrashing about on the mat, and Schwatz with a chair signalled a disqualification, awarding the match to Nifty (who also qualifies for June;s tournament for the chaotic cahampionship.
Up next was an intergender match betweeh winless (0 and 10) Ryan Epic, and the "first lady of POG," Sybil Starr. It wasn't much of a contest as the scintillating Sybil slapped her opponent during the introductions, low-blowed him as the match got underway, then polished him off with a crossface in about a minute and a half.
Next up was an interview segment featuring "moisture moment" Jack Veasey, and "Mild Mannered Matt interviewing Defiance, Ohio's own "The SI." You had to be there.
The third match saw Jonny Lawless and Noah Lott bring down, if not the house at leat the ring! During the action the middle rope fell loose! In the end Noah Lott prevailed with his finisher called, of course, "Noah's Arc."
Hard Core Harry then wandered out with a bag of tools for his match with Hardcore Harley. Only problem was that that bout is scheduled for June! Harry insisted that the ref declare him the winner, before he would leave,
next up Jamie P., a former POG commissioner led the "Hollow Souls" to the the ring to face a pair of masked opponents. The souls won, pinning "Pedrosis." Pedrosis then unmasked revealing--Ryan Epic! This was Epic's second loss of the night. On that note, it was time for intermission.
After the break, Joseph "Hebrew Hammer" Schwartz challenged Jimmy Shalwin, the POG champion (accompanied by Max Morrison). After Schwartz dominated the action, Shalwin gained the tainted win by spitting the tainted Kool Aid into Schwartz's eyes.
In the match of the night, Keith Creme, anf "Chill" Jack Verville, wnt to an old school, scientific draw. Creme proved t be a master tactician, and Verville no slouch. The crowd chanted for "five more minutes." The announcer declared that, rather than "five more minutes," both would advance to the chaotic tournament.
Next up: the Hollow Souls got their shot at tag champs, Idle Heinz, and Osiris. This proved the wisdom of the old saying: be careful what you ask for! The champs proved way too powerful for the souls who were pretty much squashed by the powerful champs.
It was noe time for the main event match pitting "Michigan's only Masked Monster," Jamie Eternal, against the popular "Dollar." This was a real "slobber knocker"--as Jim Ross would say, and ended with both being counted out. It took most of the locker room to keep these two apart. Champ Shalwin rejoiced "they both lost, so I get next month off!"
He was indignant when informed that rather having a bye for the next show, he would have to defend against both Dollar, and Eternal. That's right. On June 3rd, it will be a three-way match for the POG title. On that exciting note, the announcer thanked us all for coming, and a thoroughly happy crowd dispersed.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Cauliflower Alley Club's 45th Reunion is Spectacular, Part Two
OK, lets get the name dropping out of the way: Tiger Conway, Jr., Killer Karl Cox, Bob Geigel, The Sensational Destroyer, Dick Beyers, Don Leo Jonathon, Dean Higuchi, "Judo" Gene Lebell, Mil Mascaras, Earl Maynard, and oh so many more.
The big social events were the "Baloney Blowout," on Tuesday night (the name commemorates a time when wrestlers on the road would pool their change and buy bread and balogna to keep themselves fed between towns)and the major awards banquet on Wednesday night (April 21st).
On Tuesday, the first honoree, Irish Pat Barrett, was unable to overcome the volcanic ash cloud blanketing Europe, and the UK, and Ireland to appear to accept his award in person. His career lasted from 1960 to 1985, and covered the entire planet.
Vince Fahey, who runs the website "Kayfabe Memories" (www.kayfabememories.com )dedicated to preserving pro wrestling's storied history received the "Red Bastein Friendship" award for his work, and dedication to the sport, and CAC.
Lee Fields, longtime wrestler and Gulf Coast promoter, recieved a posthumous awrd in recognition of his long career. Also recieving a posthumous award was George "Scrap Iron" Johnson. George trained in the legendary "dungeon" of Stu Hart. An "enhancement worker," his work Ethic was legendary. George passed away in 1982. Members of his family were in Las Vegas to accept the award.
Joyce Grable, who had a twenty year ring career after being trained by Lillian "The Fabulous Moolah" Ellison, received the womens wrestling award. Also honored were Vance Nevada, Rip Hawk (originally from Toledo), Magic Shwartz, and Roger Kirby.
The major awards at the banquet were Dean Higuchi, who was introduced by the "Mormon Giant," Don Leo Jonathon. Dean was a legend in Hawaii, both as a wrestler and as a promoter.
A special moment for me, and especially for friend Sybil Starr, who was trained by him, was Dan "The Beast Severn receiving the "Lou Thesz Award," for his achievements in amateur,and professional wrestling as well as his feats in MMA. Dan barely made it from Europe in time to claim his prize. His acceptance speech, like the man himself, was low key, powerful, dignified, and inspiring.
Jim Ross, "Good Old JR" the best play-by-play announcer in wrestling history (IMHO), received a lifetime achievement award for his nearly 40 years in wrestling. His stories of the early days of his career were priceless, if unprintable here. He was introduced by another legend--"Stone Cold" Steve Austin.
The final award, the "Iron Mike" award, went to Ted DiBiase, the infamous "Million Dollar Man." Ted proved to be the total opposite of his gimmick; a humble, polite, and generous man who clearly had earned the love and respect of his peers. This included Harley Race, the tough as nails, seven time NWA champion, who wept as he recalled trying to save the life of Ted's Dad, "Iron Mike: Di Biase. Mike Dibiase died in a wrestling ring when Ted was nine years old. Terry Funk, took over for Race, and somehow they made it through a moving presentaion that I will not soon forget.
There you have it, one persons report. CAC was so much more than I had hoped for. I know that we will be back next year, and if you are a real wrestling fan, you will be too!
The big social events were the "Baloney Blowout," on Tuesday night (the name commemorates a time when wrestlers on the road would pool their change and buy bread and balogna to keep themselves fed between towns)and the major awards banquet on Wednesday night (April 21st).
On Tuesday, the first honoree, Irish Pat Barrett, was unable to overcome the volcanic ash cloud blanketing Europe, and the UK, and Ireland to appear to accept his award in person. His career lasted from 1960 to 1985, and covered the entire planet.
Vince Fahey, who runs the website "Kayfabe Memories" (www.kayfabememories.com )dedicated to preserving pro wrestling's storied history received the "Red Bastein Friendship" award for his work, and dedication to the sport, and CAC.
Lee Fields, longtime wrestler and Gulf Coast promoter, recieved a posthumous awrd in recognition of his long career. Also recieving a posthumous award was George "Scrap Iron" Johnson. George trained in the legendary "dungeon" of Stu Hart. An "enhancement worker," his work Ethic was legendary. George passed away in 1982. Members of his family were in Las Vegas to accept the award.
Joyce Grable, who had a twenty year ring career after being trained by Lillian "The Fabulous Moolah" Ellison, received the womens wrestling award. Also honored were Vance Nevada, Rip Hawk (originally from Toledo), Magic Shwartz, and Roger Kirby.
The major awards at the banquet were Dean Higuchi, who was introduced by the "Mormon Giant," Don Leo Jonathon. Dean was a legend in Hawaii, both as a wrestler and as a promoter.
A special moment for me, and especially for friend Sybil Starr, who was trained by him, was Dan "The Beast Severn receiving the "Lou Thesz Award," for his achievements in amateur,and professional wrestling as well as his feats in MMA. Dan barely made it from Europe in time to claim his prize. His acceptance speech, like the man himself, was low key, powerful, dignified, and inspiring.
Jim Ross, "Good Old JR" the best play-by-play announcer in wrestling history (IMHO), received a lifetime achievement award for his nearly 40 years in wrestling. His stories of the early days of his career were priceless, if unprintable here. He was introduced by another legend--"Stone Cold" Steve Austin.
The final award, the "Iron Mike" award, went to Ted DiBiase, the infamous "Million Dollar Man." Ted proved to be the total opposite of his gimmick; a humble, polite, and generous man who clearly had earned the love and respect of his peers. This included Harley Race, the tough as nails, seven time NWA champion, who wept as he recalled trying to save the life of Ted's Dad, "Iron Mike: Di Biase. Mike Dibiase died in a wrestling ring when Ted was nine years old. Terry Funk, took over for Race, and somehow they made it through a moving presentaion that I will not soon forget.
There you have it, one persons report. CAC was so much more than I had hoped for. I know that we will be back next year, and if you are a real wrestling fan, you will be too!
Sunday, April 25, 2010
VIP Wrestling At Sienna Hieghts College
Sienna Hieghts Field House, in Adrian, Michigan was the setting for another night of exciting wrestling action tonight. The crowd was small, but enthusiastic, and had plenty to both cheer and boo. Let's get to the action:
Before the main card, a mini-tounament was held between candidates vying for the opportunity to appear on the next VIP card. Mike Musso beat Spencer Irvine, then lost to Jaden Andrews (think of a hefty white guy doing a Michael Jackson schtick, and you will have a picture of Andrews who bills himself as "the new king of pop"). So Andrews will appear on the next card.
The official opener saw Marion Fontaine take the measure of Roderick Stone with a moonsault off the top rope. This was a very entertaing match that got the crowd warmed up, and ready for more.
Next up was an interview segment with "Mild-Mannered Matt" interviewing Jake Omen, VIP Champ, and the members of the "Life Power Church." Things started to turn ugly, when Jake and company threatened MMM. Former champ, Jimmy Shalwin, Jamie Eternal("Michigan's only masked monster"), and Sean Tylerstein, and Joseph Schwartz made the save. When the dust had settled, the disputants had all agreed to an 8-man elimination tag match main event to settle the score.
Match number two saw Ryan Epic take on Jonny Lawless. Epic proved agile and athletic, but it was for naught as he fell victim to his much larger foe. The nod went to Lawless via a slam and press.
Next up was "Madd Dragon," vs Keith Creme. Creme took time out from his busy schedule to heckle me on his way to the ring. Creme proved much too capable for Madd Dragon, and picked up the win.
After an intermission Tag Champs Jack Verville, and Mr.Nifty successfully defend their belts against "Dixie Muscle." A back cracker and press won the match, but the chant of :"dixie chicks!" may have broken Dixie Muscle's will to win.
After the break, "Gutter" (with "Cindy"-- a length of down spout!) took on a masked foe whose name was not announced. This was won by "Gutter;" with a version of the "RKO."
Main event was the 8-man elimination tag. This was lively, with lots of action, first man out was Sean Tylerstein of Kosher Club, followed by regular partner Joseph "the Hebrew Hammer" Schultz. Next out both members of the "Hollow Souls," the Jamie Eternal, and then the next to last member of the heel team went. This left ex-champ Jimmie "The Hype" Shalwin in against current champ, Jake Omen. It was Shalwin picking up the win, pinning Omen with a roll-up. This ended the card but set the stage for a future title match between Omen, and Shalwin.
Before the main card, a mini-tounament was held between candidates vying for the opportunity to appear on the next VIP card. Mike Musso beat Spencer Irvine, then lost to Jaden Andrews (think of a hefty white guy doing a Michael Jackson schtick, and you will have a picture of Andrews who bills himself as "the new king of pop"). So Andrews will appear on the next card.
The official opener saw Marion Fontaine take the measure of Roderick Stone with a moonsault off the top rope. This was a very entertaing match that got the crowd warmed up, and ready for more.
Next up was an interview segment with "Mild-Mannered Matt" interviewing Jake Omen, VIP Champ, and the members of the "Life Power Church." Things started to turn ugly, when Jake and company threatened MMM. Former champ, Jimmy Shalwin, Jamie Eternal("Michigan's only masked monster"), and Sean Tylerstein, and Joseph Schwartz made the save. When the dust had settled, the disputants had all agreed to an 8-man elimination tag match main event to settle the score.
Match number two saw Ryan Epic take on Jonny Lawless. Epic proved agile and athletic, but it was for naught as he fell victim to his much larger foe. The nod went to Lawless via a slam and press.
Next up was "Madd Dragon," vs Keith Creme. Creme took time out from his busy schedule to heckle me on his way to the ring. Creme proved much too capable for Madd Dragon, and picked up the win.
After an intermission Tag Champs Jack Verville, and Mr.Nifty successfully defend their belts against "Dixie Muscle." A back cracker and press won the match, but the chant of :"dixie chicks!" may have broken Dixie Muscle's will to win.
After the break, "Gutter" (with "Cindy"-- a length of down spout!) took on a masked foe whose name was not announced. This was won by "Gutter;" with a version of the "RKO."
Main event was the 8-man elimination tag. This was lively, with lots of action, first man out was Sean Tylerstein of Kosher Club, followed by regular partner Joseph "the Hebrew Hammer" Schultz. Next out both members of the "Hollow Souls," the Jamie Eternal, and then the next to last member of the heel team went. This left ex-champ Jimmie "The Hype" Shalwin in against current champ, Jake Omen. It was Shalwin picking up the win, pinning Omen with a roll-up. This ended the card but set the stage for a future title match between Omen, and Shalwin.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Cauliflower Alley Club's 45th Reunion is Spectacular, Part 1
The Gold Coast Casino in Las Vegas, NV was the site this past week (April 19-21) of a spectacular get together of legends of the sport. From 90 year old Ted Tourtas, who proved he can still handle a mike, to Amazing Kong, Cheerleader Melissa, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, "The Million Dollar Man," Ted Dibiase, and the best wrestling announcer of all time--JR, Jim Ross(in my humble opinion)
In the line to check into the hotel, I met a pro wrestler, long retired, who told me that he had "both hips replaced, lower spine fused, and several shoulder operations--but I would do it all again." That was a sentiment that was repeated by more than one grizzled mat veteran in the next three days.
I am not even going to try a linear report, instead, I am going to offer an impressionistic report. First day, Sally and I toured the exhibit hall met a father-son team of "lucha" style mask makers, the producer of a documentary on "The Sheik"(Edward Farhat), Howard Brody, the author of "Swimming With Piranhas: Surviving The Politics Of Professional Wrestling." I also got a photo of Sally with the Alaskan Tag Team Champions, and their title belts. We also met Al "Mr. Outrageous" Burke, wrestler, actor, and stuntman.
Others in the hall included Dave Maciejewski, (davem@communicor.com), with an enormous display of wrestling memorabilia. Dawn Marie, from ECW and WWE, now the head of the Wrestlers Rescue organization, Mad Dog Vachon, Tammy "Sunny" Sytch, Mil Mascaras, Dick "Destroyer" Beyer, Ted Dibiase, and many others.
We met up with Michigan woman wrstler, Sybil Starr, who kept things lively. The workshops offerred included one on the "Psychology of the Wrstling Fan" offered over two mornings by Dr. David M. Reiss of California. It was very informative and avoided being either too simplistic or too technical.
Ted Dibiase, and Harley Race presented a session called "Getting Heat," in one hour they covered more of the basic art of pro wrestling than you would expect to find in a much longer course. That is probably why they had an SRO audience of fans, indie promoters, and indie wrestlers.
Other workshops included one on planning for "Life After Wrestling." It covered such topics as staying on good terms with the IRS, and investing for the future. It included really down-to-earth, practical advice to help the new generation of grapplers from winding up like "Randy The Ram," (Mickey Rourke's character in the film, "The Wrestler").
In the line to check into the hotel, I met a pro wrestler, long retired, who told me that he had "both hips replaced, lower spine fused, and several shoulder operations--but I would do it all again." That was a sentiment that was repeated by more than one grizzled mat veteran in the next three days.
I am not even going to try a linear report, instead, I am going to offer an impressionistic report. First day, Sally and I toured the exhibit hall met a father-son team of "lucha" style mask makers, the producer of a documentary on "The Sheik"(Edward Farhat), Howard Brody, the author of "Swimming With Piranhas: Surviving The Politics Of Professional Wrestling." I also got a photo of Sally with the Alaskan Tag Team Champions, and their title belts. We also met Al "Mr. Outrageous" Burke, wrestler, actor, and stuntman.
Others in the hall included Dave Maciejewski, (davem@communicor.com), with an enormous display of wrestling memorabilia. Dawn Marie, from ECW and WWE, now the head of the Wrestlers Rescue organization, Mad Dog Vachon, Tammy "Sunny" Sytch, Mil Mascaras, Dick "Destroyer" Beyer, Ted Dibiase, and many others.
We met up with Michigan woman wrstler, Sybil Starr, who kept things lively. The workshops offerred included one on the "Psychology of the Wrstling Fan" offered over two mornings by Dr. David M. Reiss of California. It was very informative and avoided being either too simplistic or too technical.
Ted Dibiase, and Harley Race presented a session called "Getting Heat," in one hour they covered more of the basic art of pro wrestling than you would expect to find in a much longer course. That is probably why they had an SRO audience of fans, indie promoters, and indie wrestlers.
Other workshops included one on planning for "Life After Wrestling." It covered such topics as staying on good terms with the IRS, and investing for the future. It included really down-to-earth, practical advice to help the new generation of grapplers from winding up like "Randy The Ram," (Mickey Rourke's character in the film, "The Wrestler").
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Two Title Bouts Headline WWA Superstars In Toledo
April 11, and Somerset Hall was the venue for another card of wrestling from the
1980's. If you liked that era of pro wrestling, this was the card for you. If you didn't like that style--not so much. A crowd of about 100, mostly faithful regulars, was on hand for the festivities. Now to the action.
First bout saw crowd favorite Halloween take on Pitt Bull (the fans chanted "Poodle" at him). This match served mainly as a warm-up, but the crowd popped big when halloween nailed his foe with a spear for the win! This in spite of interference by "The Sharped Dressed Man," Jason Harris, who announced that he was taking on Pitt Bull as his protege (ala "NXT?").
In an interview segment, Tag Champs, The CIA (Denzell Titan & Black Velvet)announced that they would be touring Japan, and thanked the fans for their support. No one, I suspect, was caught unawares by the run-in by Pastor Pain, and his cohort, except for the CIA! They delivered a beatdown on both of the champs. The culmination saw Titan slammed through a table. It took two tries to accomplish!
The second match of the night saw Brandon Edward delivered into the hands of Babatunde, the 435 lb clone of Kamala. Edwards proved no match for his much larger foe, and was quickly disposed of! Babatunde then went on a rampage pinning "Jungle Jane," one of his handlers in a corner. Much of the roster came to Jane's aid, only to be disposed of by Babatunde!
Bobo Brazil, Jr. finally made the successful save, and cleared the ring so match number 3 could get under way. Anothe local favorite, Bryan Castle--The New Age Patriot took on The Ripper who, needless to say was from "parts unknown." Highlight of this match was a dropkick by the nearly 300 lb Castle, who went to win with a Russian leg sweep.
Last bout before intermission was CIA defending the tag title against the Kentucky Wrecking Crew. Black Velvet was the only member of his team at the start of the contest. Pastor Pain, and his partner attacked their outnumbered foe with utter ferocity, and seemed headed to certain victory, until a heavily bandaged Denzell made his appearance. The champs made the heroic comeback, much to the partisan crowd's delight, and escaped with the win.
After intermission, Andy Chene took on his former partner, Crimsom. It was a wild match filled with brawling in and out of the ring. At one point Crimsom spewed a red mist into Chene's face and the two continued their brawl. After a couple of minutes the announcer declared that Crimsom had been disqualified? A very strange finish! Don't know if someone's timing was off or what?
Next up was what proved to be the best match of the night! Jason Harris, AKA, the "Sharp Dressed Man," vs D-Ray 3000. This was a classic example of storytelling at its in-ring best! Action went back and forth until D-ray nailed the win with a brain-buster. Pitt Bull then entered the ring and, with his new mentor delivered a beatdown to D-Ray. These two deserve a push, and a good feud is the proper vehicle for that push.
Main Event was another in a series of wierd stipulation title bouts. This time it was a "wave the flag to surrender" match. Match could only be won by one of the combatants seconds waving a white flag (presumably to save his man from further damage). Bobo Brazil,Jr., the Champ, was seconded by Dr. Jerry Graham, Jr. Challenger Sebastian Rose was seconded by the ubiquitous Pastor Pain.
Brazil won when Pain attempted to hit him with the flag, prompting the referee to declare: "you waved the flag!" a furious Pain called for Babatumbe to come to the ring and attack Brazil. The two (Brazil and Babatumbe) then battled all the way back to the dressing room! The two will meet again on May 9, at the next event.
The good: Jason Harris and D-Ray 3000.
The bad: misscues
The ugly: Wierd stipulations, and wierd finish in the main event. Brazil and Rose can put on an entertaining match without this nonsense. Fans who pay to see these shows deserve clean finishes.
1980's. If you liked that era of pro wrestling, this was the card for you. If you didn't like that style--not so much. A crowd of about 100, mostly faithful regulars, was on hand for the festivities. Now to the action.
First bout saw crowd favorite Halloween take on Pitt Bull (the fans chanted "Poodle" at him). This match served mainly as a warm-up, but the crowd popped big when halloween nailed his foe with a spear for the win! This in spite of interference by "The Sharped Dressed Man," Jason Harris, who announced that he was taking on Pitt Bull as his protege (ala "NXT?").
In an interview segment, Tag Champs, The CIA (Denzell Titan & Black Velvet)announced that they would be touring Japan, and thanked the fans for their support. No one, I suspect, was caught unawares by the run-in by Pastor Pain, and his cohort, except for the CIA! They delivered a beatdown on both of the champs. The culmination saw Titan slammed through a table. It took two tries to accomplish!
The second match of the night saw Brandon Edward delivered into the hands of Babatunde, the 435 lb clone of Kamala. Edwards proved no match for his much larger foe, and was quickly disposed of! Babatunde then went on a rampage pinning "Jungle Jane," one of his handlers in a corner. Much of the roster came to Jane's aid, only to be disposed of by Babatunde!
Bobo Brazil, Jr. finally made the successful save, and cleared the ring so match number 3 could get under way. Anothe local favorite, Bryan Castle--The New Age Patriot took on The Ripper who, needless to say was from "parts unknown." Highlight of this match was a dropkick by the nearly 300 lb Castle, who went to win with a Russian leg sweep.
Last bout before intermission was CIA defending the tag title against the Kentucky Wrecking Crew. Black Velvet was the only member of his team at the start of the contest. Pastor Pain, and his partner attacked their outnumbered foe with utter ferocity, and seemed headed to certain victory, until a heavily bandaged Denzell made his appearance. The champs made the heroic comeback, much to the partisan crowd's delight, and escaped with the win.
After intermission, Andy Chene took on his former partner, Crimsom. It was a wild match filled with brawling in and out of the ring. At one point Crimsom spewed a red mist into Chene's face and the two continued their brawl. After a couple of minutes the announcer declared that Crimsom had been disqualified? A very strange finish! Don't know if someone's timing was off or what?
Next up was what proved to be the best match of the night! Jason Harris, AKA, the "Sharp Dressed Man," vs D-Ray 3000. This was a classic example of storytelling at its in-ring best! Action went back and forth until D-ray nailed the win with a brain-buster. Pitt Bull then entered the ring and, with his new mentor delivered a beatdown to D-Ray. These two deserve a push, and a good feud is the proper vehicle for that push.
Main Event was another in a series of wierd stipulation title bouts. This time it was a "wave the flag to surrender" match. Match could only be won by one of the combatants seconds waving a white flag (presumably to save his man from further damage). Bobo Brazil,Jr., the Champ, was seconded by Dr. Jerry Graham, Jr. Challenger Sebastian Rose was seconded by the ubiquitous Pastor Pain.
Brazil won when Pain attempted to hit him with the flag, prompting the referee to declare: "you waved the flag!" a furious Pain called for Babatumbe to come to the ring and attack Brazil. The two (Brazil and Babatumbe) then battled all the way back to the dressing room! The two will meet again on May 9, at the next event.
The good: Jason Harris and D-Ray 3000.
The bad: misscues
The ugly: Wierd stipulations, and wierd finish in the main event. Brazil and Rose can put on an entertaining match without this nonsense. Fans who pay to see these shows deserve clean finishes.
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