MWR Event Report: WLW on April 25, 2008

World League Wrestling in Lebanon, MO (April 25, 2008)

by Joshua Ray

It was a first for me on two counts. First of all, April 25th would be my very first World League Wrestling show. Secondly, it would be my first wrestling show in my hometown of Lebanon, MO, the home of Missouri Wrestling Revival. After doing my best to help the Laclede County Shriners promote the show during the week prior, I would now hold my breathe and hope for great pro wrestling action and an even better turnout. I wasn’t disappointed on either count.

I did my best to tally the crowd, eliminating those who wore red Shriner shirts, security/staff, and wrestlers. My count stayed between 130 and 140. This was a solid number, considering some of the problems the Shriners had with venue changes, ticket outlet cancellations, and lack of promotion until a week prior. These reasons are no slight to the Shriners or WLW, as these problems were mainly due to forces outside of either organization’s control. Another factor affecting attendance was that country music singer Jo Dee Messina had a show at Cowan Civic Center in town that same night.

As for the action, all I can say is that I was blown away. The show was solid from top to bottom. More about the matches later on.

I brought my wife, sister and my sister’s boyfriend to the show to check out one of my passions in life. All three are not big pro wrestling fans, so my main concern was for them to be entertained. At the end of the night, all three were happy to have come out to the show. It’s important to note that my sister looked like she had the best time of all, and that might have something to do with two pictures she had taken of her through the course of the night. The first was of her sitting on Professional Wrestling Legend Harley Race’s knee, giggling like a little school girl (I don’t think I’ve ever officially heard a school girl giggle, but I assume it sounded something like my sister). The second was of her and my wife, Sara, with their favorite wrestler of the evening, “The Vietnam Phenom” Bao Nguyen.

The show was ran efficiently, professionally, and with more than just a touch of class. Things seemed to run smoothly from top to bottom, and the fans were treated well by both the Shriners and WLW. WLW was treated, in return, with fans that were really on top of things. I thought that the crowd was every bit as loud as most crowds ten times larger.

I am a firm believer that a knowledgeable wrestling fan should cut loose at a wrestling show. Wrestlers are there because they want to entertain, which means that wrestlers want a reaction. They want to be cheered or booed. They aren’t looking for somebody to yell out insider comments or prove that they are the smartest wrestling fan in attendance. I followed up on my belief by giving a generous dose of both adoration and disdain in various situations. I sincerely hope that my contributions added to the experience and did not take away. I asked my wife (my most honest critic and supporter) and she told me I didn’t go overboard, so I’m satisfied!

Yet another positive for the night was Harley Race’s wife, BJ. Of anyone involved in a wrestling show, I can honestly and truthfully say that she was the nicest, friendliest and most genuine. In the Army, we called non commissioned officers the “backbone of the Army”. For WLW, I have a hunch that she’s their “backbone”. That is a sincere compliment. Of the many positives I took away from the night, that was my fondest.

Before I get too much further into my personal observations, let’s take a look at the show. I believe I have the match order correct, so on with the results.

Superstar Steve vs Marc Godeker

I’ll come right out and say it: Steve is one of my favorite wrestlers to watch live. I say that knowing that even though I haven’t watched him wrestle on DVD (yet), he will be one of my favorites there, too. He’s just got a style that I enjoy, with a mix of stiff shots, aerial moves, and a solid ground game. He had a formidable opponent in Marc Godeker, one half of the WLW Tag Team champions, though. Godeker was thick, strong and more than able to hold his own against Superstar Steve. After receiving some crowd-pleasing punishment to his shoulder, Godeker mounted an underhanded comeback before falling victim to WLW’s Hollywood, CA native.

 

This was a great opening match. Each of these guys wrestled their style of match, and it was such a great way to get the crowd fired up at the very beginning of the show. While I was already a fan of Superstar Steve, I have to admit that despite the “rule bending” by Marc Godeker, I was very impressed with him as well.

Brian Breaker vs “The Vietnam Phenom” Bao Nguyen

As far as the overall enjoyment of my group, this match was it. For most of the match, Bao looked like he would be embarrassingly defeated at the hands of the larger Brian Breaker. Fortunately for Bao, he proved to be very resilient. “The Vietnam Phenom” got a surprise pinfall victory over Breaker, getting a great reaction from the crowd in the process. I know that my wife and my sister were very happy for him!

The match was a very good one, and was underscored by the fact that both competitors are relatively new to a professional wrestling ring. Bao informed me that the match was the fifth in his career! It was a very impressive showing! Brian Breaker did an excellent job as well, but in his own words referred to his showing as “not good enough”. Better luck next time, Brian!

Darin Waid vs Dinn T Moore

Here’s a word to the wise: when you want to pit two wrestlers against each other who couldn’t be more opposite in appearance, wrestling style or crowd reaction, look no further than Darin Waid and Dinn T Moore. Darin attempted to keep Moore off balance, and succeeded in doing so at the beginning of the match. Moore wanted to power his way to victory, and finished the match by doing so. He didn’t receive any of the wrestling fans’ approval for the win, but I doubt he either expected or desired it.

Again, both competitors impressed me in their own specific way. While Moore may have escaped with the victory, there is no doubt in my mind that Darin Waid will be back to even the score.

WLW Ladies Championship Match -
Ms. Natural (C) vs Stacey O’Brien

The women were next up. I would receive a harsh dose of reality at the hands (or trash-talking mouth) of Stacey O’Brien when she was introduced and made her way to my location. She started yelling for me to stand up, and I’ll admit that it reminded me of a female drill sergeant I had back in basic training. Guess what? I stood up. If she would have told me to sit my nervous butt down, I’d have probably did that, too. She was loud, cocky and ready to fight.

She was followed by the champ. Looking ever so graceful in her robe, Ms. Natural had the crowd’s approval and was prepared to shut the mouth of her feisty challenger. After the two gave everything they had to give, it looked like Ms. Natural was ready to finish O’Brien off. In fact, I even shouted out that it was over. Boy did I eat my words. Seven seconds later, Stacey O’Brien reversed Ms. Natural’s maneuver and pinned her shoulders to the mat for the three count.

I was speechless as O’Brien held the title above her head in celebration.

WLW Tag Team Championship Match –
Steve Anthony & Marc Godeker (C) vs Superstar Steve and “Wild” Wade Chism

Superstar Steve and Marc Godeker were back in action. This time, each had tag team partners. In Godeker’s case, it was the other half of the WLW Tag Team Champions, Steve Anthony. Superstar Steve’s partner was one of my favorites, “Wild” Wade Chism.

Anthony started the match in stall mode, primping his hair and basically being too afraid to get involved with “Wild” Wade. Wade took care of it, though. He made sure that Anthony gave the fans their money’s worth! Wade and Steve dominated for most of the match. Most of that domination came at the expense of Steve Anthony, a man I’ve dubbed “Princess”. Godeker managed to get involved, however, and the tables briefly turned. Shortly later, all four men jumped into the ring and brawled, with Wade catching Anthony and looking like he was going to lead his team to tag team championship glory. Superstar Steve, meanwhile, lined Marc Godeker up for a superkick. He missed, catching Chism (who had Anthony over his shoulders) with the kick instead. This inadvertently led to Anthony picking up the pinfall victory, meaning he and Godeker retained the titles.

After the match and much to the delight of the fans in attendance, Chism and Superstar Steve shook hands clearing up any misunderstanding before it ever became an issue.

Harley Race -
A Class Act

Next, pro wrestling legend Harley Race was introduced by the ring announcer and given a standing ovation by the citizens of Lebanon. This part of Missouri still respects pro wrestling history even though we haven’t had a show in some time. Harley Race is a big part of that history! He came to the ring and spoke to everyone about the years of experience he had and the toll that wrestling had taken on his body. He told the young fans in attendance that they should never, under any circumstances, try any of what they see in pro wrestling at home.

“When you are old enough, if you still want to wrestle then come talk to me and I’ll train you on how to do it properly.”

I don’t think I can ever say it enough. Harley Race. Class act. Give respect where respect is due.

He then introduced us to “The Masterpiece” Chris Masters, who he gave a wonderful endorsement to. Chris came out to a huge positive reaction, and asked us if we were ready for the main event.YES!

Main Event:
WLW Heavyweight Title Match -
“The Masterpiece” Chris Masters vs Dangerous Derek McQuinn

At first, it looked like Derek was going to be too frustrated to continue his quest for the gold. Masters won the test of strength and it wasn’t making Derek very happy at all. Derek rebounded, though, wearing the champ down with chin locks, sleepers and other wear down and submission holds.

Masters retaliated with his power and will to remain the World League Wrestling Heavyweight Champion. Pinning Dangerous Derek in the corner, he unloaded with vicious chops and shoulders to the gut.

Dangerous Derek was on the ropes, literally, and Masters measured him up for his finishing hold, he “Masterlock”.

He cinched it in, and everything pointed toward a title-retaining victory by “The Masterpiece”. The crowd exploded!

Aware of his surroundings, Derek desperately used his legs to push out of the corner. He rolled backwards over Masters, who still had his hold locked in and seemed to be unable to let go. Dangerous Derek McQuinn pinned Chris Masters and became the WLW Heavyweight Champion!

Due to my photo-taking frenzy, I missed the part where Masters had his nose busted open. When he lifted himself off the mat, his nose and mouth were covered in blood. Chris was okay, but it was definitely a sight to see!

My Final Thoughts -

I can’t say enough about this show. I had a great experience, my friends and family had a great experience, and those from the town who made the trip had a great experience. I hope to see WLW in town in the near future, and I hope that Missouri Wrestling Revival can be a part of it all!

The Kari Williams MMWA-SICW Recap

MMWA-SICW Results for April 19, 2008

By Kari Williams
Throwing one’s weight around seems to be the norm in MMWA-SICW as of late. The Connection has become like a tyrant in the company, running rampant and attempting to create a dictatorship, which was seen throughout the night on April 19th in East Carondelet, Illinois at the Community Center.

Ending the night with an explosive bang, Jeremy Lightfoot waged an uphill battle against Waco and the returning Jeff Hawkins. Fans were in an uproar for this emotionally fueled contest, where Hawkins and Waco dominated Lightfoot nearly the entire match. In the beginning moments, Lightfoot had tossed Waco to the outside, which resulted in Hawkins interfering and planting Lightfoot face first into a steel chair. Hawkins then continued the beat down on Lightfoot, using a chain as his aide. After this barrage, Lightfoot had blood trickling from his skull like water from a leaky faucet. Hawkins then forced Lightfoot upright, holding him from behind, as Waco journeyed to the top rope and launched onto a dazed Lightfoot, connecting with a double axe handle. Once making their way back into the ring, Lightfoot had to fight valiantly to gain even the slightest bit of momentum. He delivered fierce chops and punches to Hawkins, but just as it seemed that Lightfoot would reign supreme, Hawkins was able to tag Waco. The Texan native worked on Lightfoot’s arm continuously, perhaps to eliminate the Lightfoot Driver from the equation. Waco then distracted Referee Jim Harris, which allowed Hawkins to further injure Lightfoot with the chain. Showing his ‘no surrender’ attitude, Lightfoot tried once again to take the advantage. He had the strength to level Waco with a clothesline, and he may have gotten the win, if not for Hawkins breaking up the count. Waco and Hawkins dictated the remainder of the match-up—with the exception of Lightfoot having the wherewithall to hit Waco with a Lightfoot Driver—and after double-teamed headbutts from the top rope in opposite corners, Hawkins secured the victory at 13: 44. Unfortunately for Lightfoot, the beating did not end there, as Hawkins and Waco continued after the bell. Phil E. Blunt then entered the fray, revealing an apparent alliance with the two aforementioned men.

Previously, “The Main Attraction” Tommy Knight took on “Wild Child” Billy Diamond in a rematch from the March 15th show at the South Broadway Athletic Club. Knight controlled the match from the bell with an impressive shoulder tackle. However, Knight’s glory was short lived as Diamond quickly took over. Sensing that he himself was in trouble, Knight distracted referee Jim Harris, which allowed The Connection manager Travis Cook to attack Diamond, thus saving his “precious main attraction.” Cook’s antics turned the tide, so to speak, for Knight, giving him complete control. Then, when Diamond started getting some offense, and could have quite possibly gone 2-0 against Knight, Cook grabbed a bag of white powder—and after Knight had Diamond positioned—thrust it into Diamond’s face, thus leading to a disqualification victory for Diamond. In the aftermath, The Connection, doing what they do best, came out and attacked Diamond from behind.

In one of the few matches The Connection did not interrupt, Shaft took on Saladin. The fans berated Saladin from the opening bell with “U-S-A!” chants and willed Shaft to continue the fight. Shaft controlled nearly the entire bout by targeting the ankle, setting Saladin up for the ankle lock. The melancholy Middle Easterner barely had a chance to mount an offense, as a result of Shaft’s vigorous tenacity. Saladin made a weak attempt to defeat Shaft after Shaft connected with his signature turnbuckle-walk bulldog. However, it was not be, and Saladin tapped to the ankle lock at 16:04.

Lumberjacks reigned supreme in the much-anticipated lumberjack match between Steve Montana and Phil E. Blunt. Neither man gained a clear advantage early on, but both were able to dish out some formidable offense. Montana used his brute strength to execute multiple clotheslines, whereas Blunt connected with an impressive DDT. However, the contest was not as crisp as it appears, because where ever Blunt is, The Connection follows. Both men were knocked out of the ring multiple times, with the lumberjacks playing their part, and shoving them back into the squared circle—some even got a few shots in on the competitors as well. Just when Blunt began to lose some ground, The Connection found their way to ringside, distracting nearly all of the lumberjacks. That distraction then gave way to Jerome Cody sneaking in from the outside—entering the ring, thanks to Bobby D, Saladin and Tommy Riggs sidetracking Harris—and forced Montana to the mat with a crushing spear. Cody was in and out quicker than lightning can strike, and after further commotion, Blunt was able to steal a victory from Montana. All hell broke loose in the aftermath, where all of the lumberjacks began to turn on each other, until peace was eventually restored. Montana, Blunt and Cody then had words following the bout, expressing their obvious hatred for each other.

The preceding match saw Josh Arnold—in only his second professional match—taking on the All-American Hero Johnny Courageous. Once again proving his worth in the company, Arnold was able to match Courageous in speed, endurance and strength. Arnold focused on the leg of Courageous, locking him into a single leg Boston crab at one point, then an even more devastating leg-lock submission that had Courageous screaming in agony. However, Courageous was able to pull out the win with a small package after taking a clothesline and a dropkick from Arnold.

Prior to that match, Bobby D and Tommy Riggs fought with all the vigor and vitality that make them MMWA-SICW material. D dominated the match from the get go, focusing on Riggs’ leg. He even went so far as to forcefully slam the injured leg into the ring post. It appeared the match would be over quickly, when D received a three count from Harris, but the decision was quickly reversed when Harris discovered Riggs’ foot resting on the bottom rope. Using the anger which resulted from the missed call, D relentlessly attacked Riggs. However, Riggs found one moment of opportunity and capitalized. He delivered a devastating body slam, followed up by a People’s Elbow—shades of The Rock. At the five minute mark, Riggs slammed D to the mat with a clothesline, went for the pin, but only received a two-count. He then went for a chokeslam, and secured himself victory.

The opening bout of the evening pitted one-half of the Tag Team Champions, Mr. Bibbs, against Moondog Rover. Both men came to battle with every intention of winning. However, because of their equal determination, neither man was able to gain a clear advantage. With one minute remaining in the match, Rover went to deliver a corner splash to a dazed Bibbs, but Bibbs side-stepped Rover and had gotten a slight advantage with 30 seconds left. Bibbs then kicked the dog when he was down, delivering a boot to the chest, but just as Harris was bringing his hand down for the third count, time expired, and the match was declared a draw.

Before the action got underway, Travis Cook forced the fans to endure his new interview segment, “The Champagne Room.” His first guest was Commissioner Keith Smith. After back and forth bickering, in which Cook asked the question, “Why aren’t you wrestling?” Smith then pointed to his neck and said that two cervical neck fusions were keeping him from being in action. Soon though, the real reason for Smith being the guest was revealed—Cook had found a loop hole in the contract for the match he was scheduled to wrestle. A thirty day period had to elapse before Cook could compete. Therefore, Smith said that next month, there would be a drawing, open to all the fans in attendance, to determine who will be handcuffed to Cook in the match.

Your Trip to Space Mountain-International Championship Wrestling

Your Trip to Space Mountain

By Brian “Flair” Kelley

Mr. Kelley explores his trip to International Championship Wrestling’s event earlier this month. Magicians, TNA Stars, brawling, and words with the Tonya Harding! What’s not to like?
At last I find the time to return with “Your Trip To Space Mountain”.

I planned a road trip with my girlfriend for a weekend of pro wrestling, including our first showing of International Championship Wrestling with special appearances by former figure skater/bad girl Tonya Harding and TNA stars “Cowboy” James Storm, Eric Young and Knockout Traci Brooks. The next night we had plans to get a motel so that we could go to Ottawa, KS and see International Wrestling Conference’s first show. The problem that came up was that I happened to be on call that weekend and was afraid they would want me back home (3 hours away). We didn’t want to take the chance of wasting the money, if in fact they did call me.

I won’t lie, though. I did have a couple of concerns about going to the International Championship Wrestling show on the first night of my planned weekend. First and foremost, their was no place on the website to buy tickets. The last thing I wanted to do was drive 3 hours and use all of that gas money only to find out that it was sold out. If you know me, though, you know I am open for anything new.

On that Friday, the doors were to open at 6:30PM. If I was to leave work at my scheduled time then there was no way we would have made it, so I found a way out and left at noon. I visited friends in Marshall on the way to KC. We arrived a full thirty minutes early at 6PM at a National Guard Armory. There were about four people ahead of us, and about that time Tonya Harding and another guy started putting up a sign in front of us that said “autographed pictures and autographed bats for $40.00″ (yes I said $40.00).

This prompted me to say “Who is Tonya Harding?” She turned around and in the saddest voice imaginable said “Me”. I laughed and told her I knew who she was. To be honest, I was proud of this short conversation that we had and truth be told I was being quite a smart ass.

While in line, another fan named Richard Corp entertained us with magic tricks and told us that he was a comedian magician. He said that he did shows around the area and without knowing that one of my favorites is Tommy Chong, he mentioned that he is actually friends with him. He brought smiles to the kids in line as well as my girlfriend, and I am sure we will catch one of his shows in the future.

We finally were allowed to purchase our tickets, which were $20.00, and go to our seats. The ring looked a little shaky and there were no ring rails to boot. We sat next to the Richard magician in the front row. A ton of chairs and no people, but a TV station was in the house with channel 38 personality Holly Starr in one corner.

Tonya Harding was across the room, and after getting to know some of other fans around us we decided to go talk to her. I told her I was playing about what I had said earlier, and that my mother was in fact a fan and wanted an autograph. For $10.00 we got our picture taken with her as well.

Disco Inferno, who was a WCW star back in the day, was there. I had met him at a WLW show a few years back, but I still had him sign a picture for us and take another one for free. Before I knew it though, Eric Young and Traci Brooks were standing nearby talking to fans and signing autographs. I am sure Eric must think that my girlfriend and I are stalkers by now, because we have seen him five times and taken pictures with him in the past year. The first time was when TNA sold tickets for Lockdown in St. Louis. The second time was when we attended an All American Pro Wrestling show in Carbondale, IL for VIP tickets (Traci Brooks was also there that night). We stayed in the Hilton where TNA had a fan interaction event (I met my friend Chuck from Slamzone there). Then we met Eric in Kansas City for the TNA house show. Eric is always willing to smile, so big props to Eric. He helped make it a great evening. Traci is first class, too, as she always comes off as a genuinely nice person. For that reason alone she is a asset to any company she works for, and might I say that on this night she was looking better than ever.

Central States Wrestling star (and I am willing to bet future WWE wrestler) Mark Sterling was in conversation with Traci and Eric, so I asked for him to stay in the picture that we took . I happen to have the goofiest smile ever, but I can tell you that before the first match started I was happy that we had made the trip.

The matches did not start until an annoying hour and a half later, but there really were not that many more fans that showed up. For some reason I always feel bad about that. The ring announcer came out and thanked the crowd for coming and introduced the first match, which had Clarice (who had a gimmick that is almost identical to TNA’s Abyss) defeating Kent Truth. It looked a little cheesy at first, but it was short and for an opener was not bad. Although the crowd was small, they were excited to see wrestling and really added to the night. The next match was a tag team match between the team of Cameron Cage & Sean Vincent and the team of Chaz Wesson & Michael Serious. That match was a pleasant surprise because I have been wanting to see Cage for awhile now and the other three I had seen and knew that they could produce a good match. There were some stiff shots, and the heat that Cage and Vincent were able to bring out from the crowd (as they stole a win from Wesson and Serious) was awesome. After the match, the Ring Announcer impressed my girlfriend as he did a “commercial” for the sponsors of the show.

Two Powerhouses battled before the intermission as John Saxon popped the crowd with win over Adrian Whisper. Before the intermission was over, Dubray and I hung out with fans around us and I encouraged our new friend Lisa to bring her daughter and Richard to CSW’s show on May 3rd in Lawrence, Kansas. Richard had me rolling throughout the night with his comments to the wrestlers and at one time had me nearly crying. For the life of me I wish I could remember what it was that he said.

Traci Books started the second half of the night with the crowd clearly on her side. She took on the snobby Irresistible Danielle and brought laughter into the building when she said Danielle looked like she was twelve years old. They battled in and out of the ring, and at one point Richard told Traci to use his knee and she gladly did as she slammed Danielle head first into it. Traci would go on to get the victory to the crowds delight.

The next match was Disco Inferno and Doink the Clown against each other, and after that match I have to eat my words. I recently told International Wrestling Conference’s current President Steve Scott that I did not enjoy Doink as a wrestler at all and did not understand why anyone would book him. That is not a knock on the wrestlers who have portrayed him throughout the years, it’s just that I do not like that gimmick. In this case, though, Disco and Doink both put on a superb match. Doink was able to excite the crowd with his antics and I have to say I also enjoyed Doink and Disco. They played well off each other.

James Storm came to ring for the main event and was able to draw some monster heat from the crowd. He made fun of several of the fans that approached the ring to let him have a piece of their mind. Eric Young came out and the crowd wanted to see Storm get what was coming to him. The two wrestlers went back and forth and before I knew it the two were right next to us, body slamming each other right in front of our group of people. Lisa and I tried to get as many pictures as possible before Young threw Storm into a bunch of chairs and, to add insult to injury, tossed him into a trash can. In the ring Storm was able to get the decisive advantage and it looked as if he had Young in real trouble. He kicked him out of the ring ,and as the ref restrained Storm from attacking him again on the outside, Young went under the ring and out came SUPER ERIC much to Storm’s chagrin. What must have seemed like a sure victory just a few minutes before for Storm turned out to be Super Eric’s victory, concluding the evening

The night was through for Dubray and I, and the drive had been well worth it as we made new friends, watched some good wrestling and met some of the best wrestlers in the world today. It just goes to show you that you never know what is in store for an independent wrestling show until you actually go. I will keep my eye out for the next International Championship Wrestling show, and though I will be cutting back somewhat in the amount of shows I go to due to the rising gas prices I hope to see you at one very soon.

WHOOOOOOO!

Combat Tested, Mother Approved

Combat Tested, Mother Approved
by Joshua Ray

I’ve been doing some thinking about how to get more involved in Midwest pro wrestling. I say that as if I am doing something differently than I normally do, but the fact of the matter is that i am always trying to stay involved in one capacity or the other. It’s hard to get that respect when somebody first starts out in this business, especially when they are involved as less than a promoter or a wrestler. Let’s face it, we love wrestling, but we all realize that you have to pay your dues before you can be taken seriously.

Those who do not pay their dues are those people we hear so much about. You know the people I’m talking about. These people are the people who try to train professional wrestlers but have barely been wrestling a few months. They are the people who take $5,000 and try to run a full time wrestling promotion with it, often cancelling shows and stiffing talent in order to make a quick buck.

Anybody who has the desire to make it in the pro wrestling has to accomplish two things. The first is to always stay true to yourself. You’ve always got to be honest with yourself about what you want to do. Set goals. Stick to the plan. Be yourself. Do not brag and boast about things that truthfully have nothing to do with you. It will only make you look like a fraud and a phony in the long run. Sure, in the short term you may achieve a moderate amount of success. In the end, however, the truth will be let out of the bag and you will lose every ounce of success you managed to attain, and then some.

The second thing you need to do is play to your strengths. For me, it’s writing and talking. Gone are my athletic days where I had big dreams of being the next Rey Mysterio Jr. The left me when I injured my back in Iraq in 2003. I’ve got to utilize the things that I am still proficient at. If you are not good in an area but want to be, then practice, practice, practice and train! One day you might be able to add that skill to your list of strengths.

Back to what I was originally talking about. I’ve been thinking about ways for MWR to better promote wrestling in the Midwest. I got to thinking about the MWR Awards and what I want to accomplish with them, and things started to spiral (which is a good thing).

Want to know how my brainwaves started spiraling? Take a look:

Right now, this site makes approximately zero dollars and zero cents. I’m not complaining, but it does make it difficult for me to get more involved in the wrestling scene like I want to. Wouldn’t it be great to have enough money by the end of the year to actually present the end of the year awards to the winners? I would love to have enough money through donations, ad revenue, personal funds, and merchandise sales to be able to buy the awards and present them to everyone who won! That would be awesome.

What would be even better would be to help promotions sanction matches in a few years for an MWR cup! It could be a one evening event with one promotion, but I think that the more than likely scenario would involve a couple of promotions and would take a few months. That idea might actually work as it could be a great promotional tool for all involved, plus it could bring talent to various promotions that wouldn’t normally be able to make it.

Do any of you have ideas or suggestions for a man with a very erratic train of thought? E-mail me!

The Kari Williams MMWA-SICW Recap

MMWA-SICW April 12, 2008 Results

By Kari Williams
Gerald Loeb once said, “The desire for gold is the most universal and deeply rooted commercial instinct of the human race.” Such was the theme at South Broadway Athletic Club (SBAC) on April 12, as new champions were crowned, championship belts were used in battle and every competitor seemed to have his or her eye on the ultimate goal.

Capping off the night, one-half of the Tag Team champions, Dave Vaughn, fought valiantly against Waco. Vaughn kept the match on a more technical level, trying to throw Waco off his typical pound-and-ground attack style. Vaughn targeted his opponent’s arm for the majority of the bout, but Waco was able to overcome the pain and delivered a devastating scoop slam to the title holder. However, Waco was unable to capitalize, possibly as a result of the absence of The Big Texan, and as Waco attempted to splash an dazed Vaughn in the corner, Vaughn escaped from sure defeat. He then nailed Waco with a vicious spear for the win.

Prior to the main event, Angel decided to shed his wings and become Tommy Riggs, to take on Shaft. Riggs started the match with a bang, as he attacked Shaft from behind the moment the bell rang. However, he payed for his devilish tactics, as Shaft delivered a flying cross body to gain control. For the remainder of the match, Shaft targeted Riggs’ leg and ankle area, perhaps softening him up for the ankle lock finisher. At the five minute mark, Riggs had regained the advantage, but Shaft’s ‘never say die’ attitude shined through, as he fought his way back and connected with a picture perfect suplex. Shaft secured himself victory with a turnbuckle-walk bulldog for the pin. During the match, Jeremy Lightfoot had come to ringside to observe, and after the match, he and Shaft locked eyes, with tension building.

As a result of a controversial finish in the Heavyweight Title match pitting “The Urban Legend” Kevin X against Champion Jerome Cody earlier in the evening, X was asked to come to ringside, where Tony Costa and Commissioner Keith Smith had developed an idea. Costa and Smith suggested a six-man elimination tag match—The Connection versus X and two partners of his choosing—and if X and Cody were the final two men, the title would be on the line.

The preceding bout saw the debut of an enthused newcomer, Josh Arnold, take on “The New Urban Legend” Phil E. Blunt, in arguably the best match of the night. Dripping with trepidation, Blunt was in no rush to get things underway. He reluctantly tied-up with Arnold and tried to prove his superiority by shoving the rookie to the mat in a weak attempt to boost his own ego. However, as they locked up a second time, Arnold was able to get Blunt into a headlock and followed up with a ferocious clothesline, shocking Blunt. For the remainder of the bout, Arnold proved that he will become a force to be reckoned with in MMWA-SICW. However, Blunt still took him lightly. At one point, Blunt had connected with a DDT and could have very easily ended the match. But his pompous attitude caused him to cover Arnold with a single hand. After that pivotal moment, Arnold willed himself to mount a comeback. He connected with a double axe handle and a running dropkick which knocked Blunt out of the ring. However, by the 10 minute mark, Blunt had regained his composure and set his sights on triumph. Blunt planted Arnold with a piledriver for the win. After Blunt had walked off, gloating in his glory, Arnold made his way to the top rope, symbolically telling Blunt and the rest of the athletes that he is not going anywhere.

Confusion ensued during the Heavyweight Title match, as X once again tried to reclaim his belt. Both competitors showed their lust for gold, each doing whatever they deemed possible to capture what they so desire. Although a fairly even match-up, X’s pure power and brute strength gave him a slight edge. X delivered a belly to belly suplex from the second rope and followed up with an authoritative clothesline and a running power slam. From this point on, Cody was able to get in very little offense. He did, however, manage to take the match outside of the ring and deliver a DDT to X. Shortly after returning to the squared circle, X made a comeback, and executed vicious punches on Cody, then followed up with a flip from the ring apron.

At this point, it appeared as though X had won the title when he pinned Cody, but there was controversy over whether or not Cody had gotten a shoulder up. Tommy Knight came to ringside, and after further deliberation, a five minute overtime was issued in which X completely pulverized Cody. It looked as though X would reclaim his title this time, but The Connection had other plans, as both Knight and Blunt interjected themselves into the match, causing a disqualification victory for X, thus saving Cody yet again.

Stacy O’ Brien and Alexis were both seeing gold as they competed to determine who would replace the former champion “Dynamite” Jennifer Starr, who had failed to uphold her obligations as champion. Trying to play mind games with O’ Brien, Alexis came to the ring carrying a box of Lucky Charms. In this back and forth contest, both athletes had their shining moments. O’ Brien connected with numerous high impact moves throughout, and Alexis was able to maneuver O’ Brien into a camel clutch-like submission. Unfortunately for O’ Brien, there was no pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Just as it appeared that O’ Brien would win her first MMWA-SICW Women’s Title, Alexis pulled out a quick reversal for the pin. Nonetheless, O’ Brien proved that she has what it takes to become a champion in the company.

The previous match pitted former Battle Royal Champion, Moondog Rover, against the current Battle Royal Champion Lumberjack Gabe. Both competitors were evenly matched in this contest. However, the Lumberjacks attempted to play dirty when Lumberjack Abe attacked Rover with the Battle Royal belt. Rover was weakened for a time, but bounced back shortly and began digging up bones. The Lumberjacks had been using under-handed tactics throughout the match without being seen by the referee, and when Rover went to gain retribution with his trusty bone, he was thus disqualified.

“The Main Attraction” Tommy Knight took on Jeremy Lightfoot in the third match of the evening. Although a bit timid in starting the match, Knight put up a valiant fight against the former Heavyweight Champion. Lightfoot controlled the first half of the match, hitting Knight with high impact move after high impact move, including a flying cross body from the top rope. Lightfoot went for a pin attempt and only scored a two count. Consequently, Knight managed to force Lightfoot to the mat with a swinging neck breaker but was unable to keep him down for the three count. Knight had just begun to sense victory when Lightfoot slammed “The Main Attraction” to his demise using the Lightfoot Driver to obtain another win.

Fans were treated (begrudgingly) to a blast from the past as Bobby D returned to action against the All-American Hero Johnny Courageous. Not one to miss a beat, D came out yelling at fans and getting in their faces, just like old times! Of course, then, “Rainbow Warrior” chants followed soon after. Courageous dominated the opening stages of the match, specifically focusing on D’s arm. However, D was able to momentarily stop Courageous’s momentum with a German suplex and a scoop slam. As D hoped that victory was near, he ventured to the top rope, and aimed to end the contest with a splash, but Courageous had other plans. The All-American Hero recovered enough to deliver two vertical suplexes and a neckbreaker, which were then followed up by a dropkick from the top rope. Courageous defeated D much to the delight of the full house crowd.

Mr. Bibbs, with Vaughn at his side, took the fight to Lumberjack Abe, with Gabe, to kick off the night. Bibbs did his best to keep an eye on Gabe to ensure that no interference would occur. Regrettably, Gabe found a way to give his partner the upper hand. Vaughn stood at ringside, waiting for the most opportune moment to help his partner. After Abe rammed Bibbs into the ring post on the outside, both competitors had found their way back to the inner sector of the squared circle. Bibbs began mounting a comeback and heaved Abe outside of the ring, giving Vaughn an opportunity to unleash his frustrations. Despite Bibbs’ fighting spirit, and Vaughn’s assistance, a win was not in the cards—for himself or Abe, seeing as the match ended in a draw, just as Abe was regaining momentum.

MWR 1st Quarter 2008 Awards

Missouri Wrestling Revival’s 1st Quarter 2008 Awards!

Missouri Wrestling Revival got off the ground a little over three months ago in January 2008. Since then, our efforts to cover Midwest pro wrestling have continued to grow with the help of wrestlers, promoters and fans across the region. MWR remains a place where we try to give back to the Midwest pro wrestling community. With three monthly awards in the history books, we progress to the next step in recognizing those individuals and promotions that make pro wrestling great in the MWR coverage area!

For the MWR Quarter Year Awards, we have a committee that selects the winner from a pool of the monthly award winners and honorable mentions. Each individual has a different area of focus, which adds to the ability of MWR to remain unbiased and able to cover a larger area of the Midwest. Quarterly honorable mentions are named when any nominee receives a vote on the MWR Quarterly Award ballots.

Here are the winners and honorable mentions for 1st Quarter 2008.

MWR Wrestler of the Quarter

Eric Ruffington [New Midwest Wrestling/Great American Wrestling/Supreme League of Wrestling/New Breed Wrestling Association]

Eric Ruffington has stayed busy chalking up wins and staying high profile in Illinois over the past three months, primarily staying busy in NMW and GAW. In GAW, he was GAW Central States Champion until February 2, 2008, when he was defeated by Cecil Cerveza. He was nearing five months with the title when he lost it. He then went on to face Jaxson Pride for the vacant GAW Heavyweight Championship, but came up on the short end. In NMW, he is a mainstay with the Central Illinois Championship belt. He is also one half of the SLW Tag Team Champions and NBWA’s Heavyweight Champ.

Honorable Mentions:

Chris Masters [WLW] – Recently released from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), Chris Masters quickly became WLW Heavyweight Champion and has defeated all comers ever since in one of the best and most active promotions in the Midwest.

Shorty Biggs [LWA/CSW] – Shorty is currently the Lethal Wrestling Alliance (LWA) Heavyweight Champion. He became the champion early in the quarter and has taken on all comers, including a very hard fought battle with “The Rebel” Jeremy Wyatt. Shorty also has been climbing the ranks in Central States Wrestling since his debut last summer.

MWR Tag Team of the Quarter

Phoenix Twins (Tweek & Dash) [Scott County Wrestling/All American Pro Wrestling/All American Wrestling]

The Phoenix Twins are one of those tag teams in the Midwest that seem to be everywhere! If a promotion isn’t booking them, it’s easy to be puzzled as to why. They are that good. While AAW, AAPW and SCW have them bringing their intense and entertaining brand of wrestling to their respective areas of operation, many other promotions are taking notice. At the end of April, the Phoenix Twins even have an opportunity to be shown on NWA Wrestling Showcase (or scouted by those who are taping NWA Showcase). Their stock is rising, and they’ve had a very positive start to the year in 2008!

Honorable Mention:

“Da Bomb” Brian James & Brandon Espinosa [AAPW] – While not the most active tag team in the Midwest, these two left a great impression in limited action as partners. One highlight of their 1st Quarter 2008 was an impressive victory over Mark Sterling and “Showtime” Darrien Sanders on February 9th.

MWR Promotion of the Quarter

Scott County Wrestling

Winner of the very first MWR Monthly Award for Promotion of the Month (January), Scott County Wrestling has done an excellent job of matching two very important pieces of the wrestling pie of success: consistent shows and fantastic booking. The tag team scene has been fantastic, with two MWR matches of the month being SCW tag matches (Phoenix Twins vs Absolute Answer, Trik Davis & Danny Daniels vs Zero Gravity [Brett Gakiya & CJ Esparza]). The feud between Tyler Black and Shane Hollister has been highly entertaining. Mississippi Madman, Keith Walker, Marek Brave, and others on an extremely talented roster round out reasons why SCW should be much more widely recognized than they are.

Honorable Mentions:

World League Wrestling – WLW has one of the most active schedules, a high profile heavyweight champion, and a great working relationship with Japanese promotion Pro Wrestling NOAH. A very good promotion that barely missed being Promotion of the Quarter by ending in a three-way tie for second place.

All American Wrestling – Another of the promotions that barely missed being Promotion of the Month, AAW has another very active schedule and has one of the most entertaining and talented rosters in the Midwest. Jerry Lynn is their heavyweight champion and has almost made it a year with a very intense schedule of title defenses, defeating Marek Brave, Delirious, Keith Walker, Tyler Black, Silas Young and Austin Aries, among others.

Lethal Wrestling Alliance – Coming off of a rough show, LWA had a string of very successful and entertaining shows to begin the year to come in as the third member of the three-way tie for second place. Talent from all over the wrestling world has competed in an LWA ring this year, and they’ve got an underrated crowd favorite champion in Shorty Biggs.

MWR Woman of the Quarter

Miss Natural [World League Wrestling]

There were a handful of female wrestlers who were active in the first three months of the year, but the race for Woman of the Quarter was down to two in the eyes of the voting wrestling community. Miss Natural edged out MsChif in very close voting, largely due to her two MWR Woman of the Month awards (February and March) and her victory over MsChif in WLW in the month of March. While she doesn’t really compete outside of the promotion that calls her their champion, she is a dominant force there and definitely won over the voters for the Woman of the Quarter.

Honorable Mention:

MsChif [LWA/WLW] – The only other woman to receive votes for Woman of the Quarter, MsChif was Woman of the Month for the month of January and was arguably the most active female wrestler in the Midwest. MsChif is the NWA Midwest Woman’s Champion, and will soon battle TNA and NWA’s Awesome (Amazing) Kong in an all-important battle.

MWR Personality of the Quarter

Crimefighter [St. Louis Wrestling Community]

Love him or hate him, the man known as Mad Conservative Crimefighter is one of the more knowledgeable wrestling fans in the area. Running a website about the St. Louis Wrestling Community, Crimefighter keeps everybody up to date on wrestling results and the inner workings of the wrestling business as it relates to the St. Louis area. His forum is one of the most active non-promotion forums on the Internet, and he has one amazing list of promotions in Illinois and Missouri! These are but some of the reasons why Crimefighter has been selected by the MWR Awards Committee as Personality of the Quarter.

Honorable Mention:

Luke Roberts [LWA/UWA/RCW/CSW] – As we mentioned in our MWR March Awards, this guy must be doing something right!
Luke Roberts list of credentials:
- Ring Announcer/Official for Lethal Wrestling Alliance
- Ring Announcer/Official/Commentator for Ultimate Wrestling Alliance
- Ring Announcer/Official/Commentator for Rampage Championship Wrestling
- Ring Announcer for Central States Wrestling-Missouri
- Ring Announcer for Cage of Fury (MMA)
Great job by a very hardworking member of the Midwest wrestling community! He missed out in the voting for Personality of the Quarter, but that is no indication that the work he’s doing on the Midwest pro wrestling scene is meaningless!

MWR Match of the Quarter

Barbed Wire Match for the CSW Heavyweight Title:

Michael Strider vs Jeremy Wyatt (2/2/2008 in Lawrence, KS) [CSW]

Michael Strider. Jeremy Wyatt. Barbed wire. Nearly-severed arms. Nipples that actually were severed. Brutal.

Here is the breakdown of a match that could very easily be match of the year:

After an intermission where the ring was set up for the main event, it was finally time to watch two of the best in the Midwest, Michael Strider and “The Rebel” Jeremy Wyatt for the CSW Heavyweight Title. It would prove to be a very brutal and bloody war between two very determined men, and all inside a ring surrounded with barbed wire and devoid of wrestling ropes.

At least everyone thought the match would be inside the ring.

Strider and Wyatt initially did their best to stay out of the barbed wire while attempting to throw the other into it. The match eventually spilled to the outside, and both men brawled all over the arena. Chairs and pieces of guardrail flew everywhere. That was just a prelude to both wrestlers being thrown everywhere. By the time the match reentered the ring, both men were already badly beaten.

The fans hadn’t seen it all yet. Strider had chunks (yes, chunks) of his left hand and right arm torn from him after being tied up in the barbed wire. Wyatt was power bombed through the barbed wire. Strider hit Wyatt with a chair shot to the head. Wyatt hit Strider with a suplex onto his head that looked like it snapped the champ’s neck.

Then there were thumbtacks. Yes, thumbtacks. By the end of the match both men had been ripped open by barbed wire and punctured by numerous thumbtacks. Some of those thumbtacks were still embedded in Wyatt’s skull and Strider’s back. They had given it their all and the fans were more than appreciative. One of them had to lose and it was only a matter of time, but Strider hit the Strider Spiral.

1-2-Kickout!

Wyatt retaliated with one of his own seconds later.

1-2-Kickout!

Then somehow out of nowhere, Strider hit a suplex that nearly snapped Wyatt’s head right off his body, which secured the pinfall victory. Strider retained his title.

The crowd went nuts and the two men who had just laid it all out on the line were standing in the center of the ring staring at each other. Strider offered his hand for a respectful handshake, and after a few seconds Wyatt returned the favor by flipping him the bird and leaving.

When Wyatt left, three masked men rushed into the ring and brutally destroyed Strider. It wasn’t a difficult task, since Strider had laid it all on the line in a great title defense. Amazingly, Jeremy Wyatt returned to the ring and actually fought as a team with Strider against the attackers. The numbers were too great for these two exhausted men and they were easily defeated, only to be joined by Brett Young and eventually Derek Stone in an attempt to run the masked men off.

Again the masked men targeted one man at a time and used numbers to pick them apart, possibly re injuring Derek Stone’s leg in the process. The masked men finally chose to unmask after making sure that all men were defeated, revealing themselves to be Jaysin Strife, Tyler Cook, and in a huge surprise – a returning Payday Patterson!

All three men stomped on the fallen CSW wrestlers and cursed the name “CSW” and the fans before finally exiting the building.

Hype Gotti eventually made it to the ring to lend assistance, but it was much too late.

Honorable Mention:

TLC Dog Collar Match for the CSW Heavyweight Title:

Michael Strider vs Dingo (3/3/2008 in Mt. Vernon, IL) [CSW]

The only other vote-getter in the Match of the Quarter category, this match had two things in common with the winner. First of all, it featured CSW Heavyweight Champion Michael Strider. Secondly, it was a sanctioned CSW Heavyweight Title match. Another brutal affair, this TLC Dog Collar Match featured two of the best in the Midwest competing for the gold. NWA Missouri Champion Dingo almost picked up the huge win, but Strider used some underhanded tactics to retain his title.

MWR Spotlight: Edmund “Livewire” McGuire

Missouri Wrestling Revival Spotlight:
Edmund “Livewire” McGuire

By “Your Trip to Space Mountain” writer Brian “Flair” Kelley

Editor’s Note: After this interview was conducted, “Thunderbolt” Brandon Walker was injured and will be unable to face Edmund “Livewire” McGuire tomorrow. AAPW and MWR wish Mr. Walker a speedy recovery!

Height: 5’9”

Entrance Music: “How Many Wanna” by Ja Rule [Instrumental]

Experience: 5

Promotions: All-American Pro Wrestling (AAPW), National Wrestling Coalition (NWC), IWA Productions, United States Championship Wrestling , New Focus Wrestling

Biggest Match: Versus “Homicidal” Steven Davis in Carbondale, IL on 8/19/07 [AAPW Heavyweight Championship Tournament Finals to crown the 1st EVER AAPW Heavyweight Champion]. I was unsuccessful thanks to “Thunderbolt” Brandon Walker’s outside interference.

Signature Move: The Livewire Legdrop (top rope legdrop), Superkick

Edmund, what attracted me to you for the interview was seeing you in action with All American Pro Wrestling. I had taken the time to search for you on Myspace, and what stood out to me was the fact that you are such a student of the sport. You have quite a passion for wrestling. What drew you to wrestling and who did you look up to?

Well, it was really easy for me to get caught up in the wrestling craze thanks to my family being huge fans. Ever since I can remember, I have been a die-hard wrestling fan. I grew up on 80′s NWA, WCCW, WWF, WCW, AWA, and USWA Memphis. I, till this very day, remain a fan of the old-school era of wrestling, and study it relentlessly in preparation of matches. I have so many wrestlers that I idolized and looked up to, and who I saw as inspirations for me to get into this business: “Cowboy” Bob Orton, Jr., Harley Race, Dory Funk, Jr., “Nature Boy” Ric Flair, Nick Bockwinkel, Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat, “Superstar” Bill Dundee, Jerry “The King” Lawler, Shawn Michaels, Bret Hart, Dean Malenko, Chris Benoit, “Flyin” Brian Pillman, The Undertaker, and “Diamond” Dallas Page are some of the most notable ones that I remember idolizing.

Who trained you and was it what you expected?

“Homicidal” Steven Davis & “Dangerous” Donny Sixx trained me. I really can’t say it’s what I expected, but I went in with a positive attitude, kept my eyes and ears open and my mouth shut, and gave my very best efforts to learning the craft of pro wrestling. I am grateful for all of the knowledge and time these gentlemen put into training me and molding me into who I am today.

Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake, Kid Kash, Greg “The Hammer” Valentine, Koko B. Ware, The Naturals, “Showtime” Eric Young, “Tennessee Cowboy” James Storm, Abyss, and Traci Brooks have all wrestled for AAPW, which must be a thrill for an up and coming wrestler such as yourself. Out of these Superstars which ones impressed you the most and really went that extra mile to work with the stars of tomorrow?

Koko B. Ware, hands down. Koko went out of his way to encourage me and to explain to me the art of promos. You know, how to make them believable. I made it a point to pick his brain regarding certain aspects of this business, and he was gracious enough to lend his ear and his time to me. For that, I’m fortunate as well as grateful.

It seems these days that all you hear about are the negative aspects of the sport when wrestling or wrestlers are the topic of conversation, but I must say that my experience with wrestlers on the Independent scene has been only positive. When doing research about you, a story came up about you attending a boys birthday party. Please tell the readers about how this came about and what were the results?

Well, the young man whose birthday party I was the surprise guest for attends most of AAPW’s area events. His mother asked me days prior to that whether I was available and if I could be a surprise guest for her son’s birthday party because he’s a huge fan of mine. I looked at it as a chance to do something for someone that wasn’t done for me when I was young, so it wasn’t at all a problem for me. I jumped at the opportunity. It’s not everyday that a kid has a wrestler for a birthday party guest! We all had a blast, and the young man and his family and friends attended that night’s event in West Frankfort, IL.

My Girlfriend and I took the 250-mile road trip to Carbondale, IL some time ago to see AAPW and what the promotion had to offer, and really had a good time. The show was very well run, and we look forward to coming back. How would you describe AAPW to a fan that wants to see some wrestling action?

I would describe All-American Pro Wrestling as a very family and fan-friendly wrestling organization that prides itself on providing good, clean entertainment. We do our best to emphasize the term ‘pro wrestling’, and in-ring action is strongly emphasized. I agree with you when you say that anytime pro wrestling is discussed, it’s usually referred to in a negative light. AAPW does it’s best to bring some class and respectability to professional wrestling. We sort of have an old school atmosphere to our events. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with having a little pizzazz in independent wrestling, but when it all boils down, it’s spelled w-r-e-s-t-l-i-n-g. We do our best to contribute to that philosophy. We want people to feel at home when attending our events, and we want to be a wrestling promotion they can call their own and be proud of.

With your quick moves you can electrify a crowd, which makes you very popular with the fans. You have won some big matches in AAPW but it seems as if Brandon “Thunderbolt” Walker has been a thorn in your side since nearly the beginning. In West Frankfort, IL in January after beating Chocolate Thunder (who substituted for a missing-in-action Brandon Walker), you made a challenge to “Thunderbolt” Brandon Walker for April 12, 2008 in West Frankfort for a No Countout No Disqualification match, yet once again in Mt Vernon, IL you were taking on Mike Masters when Thunderbolt pushed you off the top rope to allow Masters to take advantage and get the pin. Later in the evening, you decided to get some payback on Walker by heading to ringside, distracting Walker in order for “The All American” J.T. Calhoun to secure a victory in their match. This leads us to April 12th in West Frankfort, IL at the New Beginnings Assembly. Doors open at 6PM with a bell time of 7PM. You will finally have a chance to get a payback win off Thunderbolt. How do you feel going into this?

You’re absolutely correct, Brandon Walker has indeed been a thorn in my side for the longest time now, dating back to August when he cost me the opportunity to become the very first AAPW Heavyweight Champion. There seems to be an underlying bitterness in Brandon. Since returning to Southern Illinois after a lengthy absence (following a stint of being on top in this area for years), Brandon sees that there’s a new crop of young lions on the prowl. I guess he chose me to target. I, being one to never back away from a fight, embraced the competition and after a while it turned personal after a series of back and forth battles. We’ve each got a victory over one another, and on April 12th I plan to settle this score with Brandon once and for all!!!

What goals do you have for yourself in wrestling?

To have fun. Plain and simple. Not too many people in this lifetime can say they lived their dreams, and I am blessed to be able to say that I have. I feel as though I have yet to reach the tip of the iceberg, and I’m going to continue to give it my all and entertain audiences to the best of my abilities. As far as particular goals, I’d like to tour the U.S. & foreign countries in pursuit of pro wrestling experience. WWE is always an option…

Now it is time for the Space Mountain Free Fall where you can give your thoughts on the wrestlers that are scheduled for April 12 with AAPW:

“Thunderbolt” Brandon Walker:

Officially exterminated after April 12th courtesy of Edmund “Livewire” McGuire.

Shawn Shultz:

Arrogant, obnoxious, super-talented athlete who I’ve waged war with once… and won!

Carnage:

Diabolical, mysterious and savvy…

Keith Knox:

Hmmm… I feel sorry for Shawn Schultz on April 12th.

“Homicidal” Steven Davis:

One of the toughest competitors I’ve ever stepped into any ring with. I have welts on my back and chest that will last me a lifetime thanks to this guy.

Ax Stevens:

Wily and dangerous. He’s been on a hot streak like none other here in AAPW lately. We’ve battled all over IL, IN, MO and AR, and I consider him to be one of my fiercest rivals. We have a score that has yet to be settled, and one day, we’ll get the chance to close the book on our storied rivalry.

“The All American” JT Calhoun:

For a man his size, it’s astonishing to see someone with that kind of speed, strength and agility. Much props to JT.

Vulcan:

I’ve never had a chance to cross paths with Vulcan, but I’ve worked with him in other companies. From what I’ve seen, it’s all about brute force with Vulcan. His smashmouth style has earned him championships and he’s got a reputation for throwing the rulebook out the window. Let’s just see how he tests his mettle against the competition here in AAPW.

Mike Masters:

As good an athlete as Mike Masters is, I must admit that I’ve lost respect for him. I know wrestling’s all about wins and losses, and as hard as the reality of it may be, I can accept losing to a better competitor. Mike proved in Mt. Vernon, IL back in February that he’s willing to stoop to any level necessary to gain respect. It takes a very respectable individual to steal a cheap victory from me after Brandon Walker interfered… at least in Mike’s eyes it does! I proved to him in Carbondale, IL last month that that deed doesn’t come without a heavy price Believe me, he got his receipt tenfold in the form of him having his shoulders pinned to the mat… one. two, three!

Playboy Paul Rose:

What a character this guy is! He’s another in a long line of wrestlers who’ve tried to take me down and have been proven unsuccessful. I’m still trying to figure out what kind of gall this guy has for coming out in pink feather boas, pink Speedos, and bleach-blond hair.

“The Future” Donavan Ruddick:

He’s making his AAPW return on April 12th, and is looking to destroy any and everyone in his path, I’m quite sure. I’m going to be sure to keep my eye on this individual closely.

“The Serial Thriller” Shane Rich:

A class act in every sense of the term. He’s gone through a lot of trials and tribulations to get to where he is in AAPW, and I commend him for never giving up and never giving in. It’s paid off for him by him winning the AAPW Heavyweight Championship. Don’t let my respect for him lead you to believe that I won’t be chasing him down for that title someday.

Brandon Espinosa:

I’ve been in the ring with this tremendously talented athlete only once, and he emerged the better man that night. If given the opportunity, I’d like to believe that the results would be a bit different… unfortunately for Mr. Espinosa…

J.C. Blade:

One of the hungriest young competitors that we have here in AAPW. He’s looking to make a way for himself. I encourage him to keep up the good work and never lose faith, no matter how rough the competition may be.

In Altamont, IL a new promotion IWA is having a Fund Raiser to benefit the Blue Knights. Their charity is the SAFE Program. What can you tell us about this new promotion?

I can safely say that IWA is going to be an experience like none other. I am looking to carve out a path in IWA just like I have in AAPW and many other promotions that I work for.

It is also scheduled for AAPW to bring hot wrestling action to Chester, IL on May 7, 2008. At this point are there any more dates where we can see Live wire McGuire in action?

Well, I’m booked all the way through June. I am getting booked in advance, and it’s possible that by then I’ll be booked up another few months. I’m going to be all over Illinois and Indiana and I’m working on bookings in Michigan and Ohio, so I encourage any and all to contact me via my Myspace page (www.myspace.com/livewire_mcguire) and inquire.

Any last words for your fans?

I am so eternally grateful for the encouragement and support that you’ve shown me, and I thank you all so much! Your continued support would be greatly appreciated as I continue making a way for myself in this lovely sport of professional wrestling. Thank you and I hope to see and meet you at the events! God bless!

Mark This Down

“Mark This Down”
by “Smart” Mark Anthony

Note from MWR: “Smart” Mark Anthony is a pro wrestling aficionado, Internet advocate, and aspiring wrestling manager with strong opinions and a blunt personality. The views expressed in his column do not necessarily reflect the thoughts, opinions, or feelings of MWR or the MWR staff.

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR: This article has been HEAVILY edited by me in order to protect the individuals and promotions involved. I will never run a pointed and negative article about any individual or entity unless thorough investigation has been conducted by me.
What’s the matter? Did you miss me?

I know there are those of you out there who will deny it but I, as your leader, know the truth. You’ve been lost without me. You’ve been clamoring for more from “Smart” Mark Anthony. You need me to tell you what you like and don’t like.

Here I am, basking in the glow of your adoration.

There are some strange things happening in the world of Midwest professional wrestling, friends. Very strange things. It’s my job to talk about them. Due to my connection with Missouri Wrestling Revival and the fact that I do not have my own website platform to project my views from, I’ve got to tread lightly on this topic. That being said folks… here goes nothing.

In the world of American professional wrestling, there are very few instances where a wrestler would find it feasible to limit himself/herself to only one wrestling promotion. Sure, a newer wrestler might have obligations to a wrestling school that is connected with a promotion, but I’m talking about wrestlers with more than a year of experience. Indy wrestlers in particular need to do some traveling in order to bring in steady money and showcase their skills. Most wrestling promotions only have one (maybe two) shows each month. Most wrestlers are lucky to make fifty to one hundred dollars per show. Do the math.

World Wrestling Entertainment has exclusive contracts. Total Nonstop Action only recently started using exclusive contracts when the company became more established last year. Other than those two promotions, I would venture to guess that the only exclusive contracts would be in connection with the various wrestling schools across the country.

I could be wrong, but I seriously doubt it.

The Midwest wrestling scene is no different. That is, it wasn’t until recently. There have been rumblings across the greater Midwest that a promotion, which as of my writing of this (April 8, 2008) hadn’t even had it’s first show yet, started sending out exclusive contracts to many Midwest wrestlers. The word on the street is that the promotion is claiming to have actually signed some of these wrestlers to exclusive contracts.

How much is this promotion paying? I’ll quit my job here at MWR (sorry, Josh!) and go to work for them if they are making it as worth a wrestler’s while as I imagine they’d need to.

Think about it.

I’ll break it down in optimistic fashion. If the average indy wrestler makes $300 per appearance (I’d say the average “good” Indy wrestler does not even make that much), and he/she typically works four shows per month for various promotions, that is $1,200. Can a start up Midwest promotion have the capability to pay $1,200 per month to make it worth a wrestler’s while? I seriously doubt it.

What’s more troubling is the rumor that has been running rampant with wrestlers whom have received these “exclusive contracts”, but have not signed them. Reports have varied, but wrestlers have stated that the contracts are between fifteen and twenty pages long. My sources also tell me that the “exclusive” part of this contract is hidden.

If we are all fans of professional wrestling, why would we want to sit idly by and support an organization that is obviously trying to exploit our wrestlers? It makes no sense to me.

Even more troubling is the report of stereotypical promotional infighting that has resulted in underhanded tactics from this new promotion. One example is a very well-respected promotion being undermined by a phantom entity calling the venue of each of the established promotion’s events. The caller stated that he/she was the owner of the established promotion and said that the show had been cancelled. The established promotion went from having nearly a year of wrestling dates, to having two or three.

When I originally wrote this article, I had much more information included in it. The article was much less vague then, but I’ll go on ahead and say that the editor of MWR is professional enough to keep somebody like me in check. That means that many of the details have been removed from this article pending a full investigation.

I’ll jump start the investigation by being at this organization’s first show to check on how things run.

You all haven’t heard the last of me!

RELATED LINKS

“Mark This Down” for January 18, 2008
“Mark This Down” for January 27, 2008
“Mark This Down” for February 17, 2008
“Mark This Down” for April 10, 2008
“Mark This Down” for May 9, 2008

MWR Spotlight: Shorty Biggs

Missouri Wrestling Revival Spotlight:
Shorty Biggs

By “Your Trip to Space Mountain” writer Brian “Flair” Kelley

Nickname: The Don Mega

Height/weight: Height? C’mon man what’s my name? As for weight, about two bills and some change.

Entrance Music: “Ante Up” by M.O.P.

Experience: 6 years plus tax.

Promotions: Central States Wrestling (CSW) and Lethal Wrestling Alliance (LWA) are primarily my promotions right now. There are other promotions I work for from time to time.

Biggest Match: They are all BIGG (pun intended) to me, but if you are looking for specifics, I’d say Human Tornado, Dingo, Michael Strider, and Kory Twist were big matches for me.

Signature Move: Short Stop, Short Kut, and the Def Jam.

It is nice to have Shorty Biggs, current LWA Heavyweight Champion with us today.
It’s good to be here. Thanks for having me.

Who or what would you say inspired you to get into the wrestling business?

Like most pro wrestlers, I started out as a fan. My great grandmother was in her living room one day yelling at TV. I rushed in to see what was going on, and I saw the Four Horsemen trying to jump Sting. From there, it was on like Donkey Kong.

One day years and years later this kat I knew told me that he was a pro wrestler and that I should come and check out one of the local shows he was on. It took me about six months to do so, but I finally made it out to a show. By the end of the show I decided that this was something I wanted to get in on, so I went down to the training center. When I went down there, it wasn’t to learn how to wrestle. I was going down there to learn how manage. That’ right, Shorty was supposed to be a manager.

Well, I got in the ring with some jeans and a pair of Timberlands on and I ran some drills. The next time I went to the training center, a guy who was in charge of the talent told me that they didn’t want me to manage. I thought, “damn! I pissed somebody off already!” The guy told me that they wanted me to wrestle. I guess they liked the way I ran the drills. Three months later, I had my first match against a guy named Ricky Recuse.

Damn that was pretty long winded, my bad.

Where did you receive your training from?

If I started naming off every person who helped out in my training then this interview would have to be separated into chapters, so I’ll just say I have received training from every wrestler I have stepped in the squared circle with. I have learned something from them all, and as long as I keep wrestling I will keep learning. So BIGG ups to everyone who
has ever stepped in to the ring with me.

What other promotions have you worked for other than Gateway Championship Wrestling (GCW), LWA and CSW?

I have worked for many promotions throughout the Midwest, and I look forward to working all over the US and maybe one day in another country. If I get into the names of all the promotions, it would be like spilling a bowl of alphabet soup on the floor.

On December 8, 2007 at Yuletide Terror on in House Springs you defeated Pierre Abernathy, a man some have said was hiding from you, for the LWA Heavyweight Championship. How would you describe the feeling you had when the refs hand fell the third time and you were champion.

It was a mixture of feelings. I was excited, happy, thrilled, tired, beat up, half blinded, and relieved. A lot of people didn’t think that I could pull it off, but when it was all said and done the Don’s hand was raised. It was like being at a concert and the artist you came to see played your favorite song. You just get amped, go crazy and lose your mind.

You later defended the belt at LWA’S Proving Ground. It was a flashback to 1985 and St. Louis versus Kansas City, as you took on Kansas City’s own Jeremy “The Rebel” Wyatt in a match. At times it looked like the belt would go to Kansas City, but you were able to get the win and fortunately make the LWA fans happy. Shortly thereafter, you wrestled “The Rebel” again in NWA Central States Wrestling Missouri and were on the short end of that match. What are your thoughts on Wyatt?

Let me tell you something about “The Rebel”. There ain’t no half-steppin’ in that dudes game. I have had great matches with him. It’s something about those Kansas City kats. They bring it, and I would have it no other way. Wyatt is a true talent and I can’t wait mix it up with “The Rebel” again. I don’t know about barbed wire matches or anything like that since I like my face too much, but anytime Wyatt wants to throw hands, I’m down.

You have been a fighting Champion. You have defended the belt against former St Louis Wrestler of the Year Dingo, who is lighting-quick, but once again you came out on top. Your success against Dingo gave you no breathing room, though, as now you have the “69 Monster” Donovan Ruddick targeting you. Many claim him to be the future of the St. Louis wrestling scene, so what will be your strategy as you prepare to face him?

I would be spittin’ fibs if I said I ain’t think twice about Ruddick. I mean, that’s a big dude. I have fought big men before and I ain’t no little dude myself. The thing that gets me is that he has jumped me like two or three times, but it’s always when my back is turned. Now I’m not trying to say the man is scared, but maybe the guy is thinking twice about me, too. To bottom line it: There are no such things as monsters, and Shorty Biggs it the illest and realest kat that you’re ever gonna meet. Ruddick, watch your step kid because I don’t care if you are 6’9″, 7’12″ or 8’14″, when we get in the ring face to face I’m giving out dirt naps, so get your PJs ready.

Out of everybody you have wrestled and all of the matches you have had, which would you say has been your toughest bout?

I’ve had some pretty tough ones. None of them have been easy. If I have to pick… well, there was a tables match with Strider that was no picnic. I’ve been kicked in the face by Kevin X. Also, it seems that every match I have with Dingo doesn’t go long, but I’m always beat up the most in them.

LWA has brought in Total Nonstop Action (TNA) stars like Alex Shelly, Samoa Joe and Chris Sabin, along with Ring of Honor star Davey Richards. Next up is AJ Styles on May 24th in St. Charles, MO. Who would you like to face if the powers to be were to bring in a current TNA or ROH star?

Well, I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but every time LWA brings in aTNA or ROH star, Alex Shelly excluded, I seem to miss that show. I call it the curse of the Biggbino, and yes I will be missing the show that AJ Styles will be at. That, my dude, sucks. To be honest with you, it would be an honor to wrestle any of the names you mentioned.

One show that I am totally excited about is when CSW returns to Cape Girardeau, MO. It will be at the 2008 Comicon, which will be a good way for us comic geeks to get our fix of both wrestling and comics. Headlining the event will be NWA World Women’s Champion and TNA Women’s Champion Awesome Kong vs. NWA Midwest Women’s Champion MsChif. These ladies are two of the most talented women in the wrestling world today, and they will be on the CSW card along with ROH star Davey Richards, CSW stars Michael Strider, Tyler Cook, Dingo, and Jeremy Wyatt. Any idea at this point as to who you will be going up against?

Man, I am just excited about the whole event. I love going down to Cape Town. They show me a lot of love when I’m down there. I’m also thrilled to be a part of such an epic event for CSW. I think it’s cool that we get to have pro wrestling and the comicon under the same roof. I think wrestling fans and comic fans are both cut from the same thread. I mean, I like super heroes.

The main event alone is worth the price of admission. Kong, MsChif, Richards, Dingo, Strider and the rest of the CSW roster… what more could you ask for? It’s going to be a show that is talked about for sometime.

I don’t know who I’m going up against, but whoever it is had better be ready. This event is major, and I’m going to get my shine on.

Independent wrestler Johnny Vinyl once stated that you are “the most charismatic performer in St. Louis”, and one can easily make that argument. Truly, some of your talent and charisma comes naturally, but what would be your advice for someone coming into the business.

Did Vinyl put on some chap stick before he started kissing the junk in this trunk? (Shorty points to his backside and laughs)

I’m just playing. Thanks for the compliment JV. For real, when I’m out there in the ring I’m just being me. Just be yourself. You also have to know your limits. Not everybody is cut out for this business. Make sure your family and education come first, because when it’s all said and done that’s all you got. Your family was there before wrestling and you better make sure they will still be there after wrestling. Everybody knows that you should have some form of education, so there is no reason for me to even get into that. If any of you young ones out there don’t know about that, then hit me up on Myspace and we’ll talk about the reasons why.

Jeremy Wyatt was able to make his matches with you seem as if it was all about Kansas City versus St. Louis, but I know that you are popular with the Kansas crowd as well as St. Louis. Where else should we plan on seeing the Don wrestle this summer?

I would love to come back out to Kansas. There are true wrestling fans out there and ain’t nothing better than that. Just keep checking my Myspace page. I should have all the dates up there.

Last but not least do you have anything to say for all the Shorty fans out there?

I want to thank all the little shortys out there. Show some love for Shorty. There is nothing better than to go out and entertain you all. It’s the reason I’m in this business.

Thank you Bri Bri for taking the time to rap with the Don Mega and giving the peeps a chance to get know me.

I want give a shout to some of my peeps: G-ma, G-pa, BK, Diddy, Brubaker, Glenda Anne, The Click, Mr.Smith, EJ, CY, BBB, Detective Mesh, The CSW East and West, The Gateway Fam, The LWA Posse, The Fam Fam. You know who your are, and if you have to ask then don’t bother. Every single person in this business, whether you are in front of the crowd or behind the scenes. Anyone and everyone who has supported me.

If you have done anything to support the progress of this business that I love, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart.
You can check out Shorty at http://www.cswwrestling.com and http://www.lwawrestling.com.

On April 19, 2008, LWA will be in Fairview Heights, IL. Shorty Biggs defends his LWA Heavyweight Championship against “69 Monster” Donovan Ruddick. Check it out!

MWR March 2008 Awards

MWR March 2008 Awards

Another month has wrapped up in Midwest Wrestling. Today, Missouri Wrestling Revival covers the best of March 2008. Our panel of individuals contributing nominees continues to grow!

Without any further ado, let’s take a look at the winners as well as those who received honorable mention status!

March 2008 Wrestler of the Month

Honorable Mention – Shorty Biggs [LWA/CSW], Chris Masters [WLW], Eric Ruffington [NMW], Keith Walker [SCW],

Winner – Brett Young [CSW]

All Midwest promotions and wrestlers stayed very active this month, but there aren’t many that can match up with “#1″ Brett Young’s month! Originally scheduled for a Central States Wrestling match for the vacant NWA Kansas Championship against the very formidable Mark Sterling, Young was blindsided with another match in which he would actually have to qualify to face Sterling later in the evening. It was an elimination match featuring the likes of Tony Cortez, Hype Gotti, Jeremy Wyatt, Jaysin Strife and Darrien Sanders, and it was grueling. Young prevailed though, and actually went on to defeat Mark Sterling at the end of the night for the NWA Kansas Championship!

March 2008 Tag Team of the Month

Honorable Mention – None.

Winner – The Phoenix Twins (Tweek and Dash) [SCW/AAPW/AAW]

It took little time for the Phoenix Twins to make their mark on AAPW, as they defeated “The Headliner” Chris Michaels & Flash Flanagan to win the AAPW Tag Titles in Carbondale, IL on 3/15. This plus a hugely entertaining victory over Absolute Answer in Scott County Wrestling action helped in giving more proof that they are among the elite tag teams in the Midwest.

March 2008 Promotion of the Month

Honorable Mentions – CSW, SCW, AAPW, GAW

Winner – World League Wrestling [WLW] [http://www.harleyrace.com/wlw/wlwhome.htm]

The organization headed by Harley Race has the best talent right now that it has ever had from top to bottom in the past year. From former WWE Superstar Chris Masters beating future talent Keith Walker for the WLW Heavyweight Title to the WLW-NOAH connection bringing in talent like Go SHIOZAKI, from WLW Women’s Champ Miss Natural to one of the best Women wrestlers in the world MsChif, this promotion gets the nod for the month of March. The good news is that WLW action is heating up as Spring rolls in. Check out the WLW website for more details!

March 2008 Woman Wrestler of the Month

Honorable Mention – MsChif [LWA], Stacey O’Brien [MMWA-SICW], Alexis Lightfoot [MMWA-SICW], Lady Vendetta [IWA]

Winner – Miss Natural [WLW]

Defeating MsChif, the woman who is widely regarded as the best in the Midwest right now, helps Miss Natural keep her spot! She has some competition this month, though!

March 2008 Personality of the Month

Winner – Luke Roberts [LWA/UWA/RCW/CSW]

Many of us at MWR wanted to give respect to a guy who must be doing something right! Luke Roberts list of credentials:

- Ring Announcer/Official for Lethal Wrestling Alliance
- Ring Announcer/Official/Commentator for Ultimate Wrestling Alliance
- Ring Announcer/Official/Commentator for Rampage Championship Wrestling
- Ring Announcer for Central States Wrestling-Missouri
- Ring Announcer for Cage of Fury (MMA)

Great job by a very hardworking member of the Midwest wrestling community!

March 2008 Match of the Month

Honorable Mentions – Jaxson Pride vs Eric Ruffington (for vacant GAW Heavyweight Title)[GAW], Keith Walker vs Marek Brave [SCW], Michael Strider vs Dingo (Dog Collar TLC Match for CSW Heavyweight Title) [CSW], Arik Cannon vs Ryan Cruz [PWP]

Winner – Phoenix Twins vs Absolute Answer [SCW]

The Phoenix Twins are showing the Midwest what they are made of by competing in highly entertaining bouts in numerous promotions. In SCW, they have found a home for their brand of tag team action! The opponents, the always formidable and well respected Absolute Answer. Tag Team wrestling might not be what it used to be in the national and global American organizations, but it’s alive and well in the Midwest!
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