Is NWA World Champion Adam Pearce’s “Last Ride” tour about to come to a screeching halt due to “The Belt Collector” Jeremy Wyatt?

NWA World Champion Adam Pearce’s t-shirt as he makes his world tour.

By Brian Kelley

The prestigious NWA World title returns to where it all began as the NWA World Champion Adam Pearce comes to Des Moines, Iowa on January 27^th in action at the 2-time MWR promotion of the Year 3XWrestling.

 Adam Pearce has been the NWA World Champion since July 31^st when he won the NWA World Heavyweight Championship for the fourth time by defeating Chance Prophet, Jimmy Rave and Shaun Tempers in a four-way match to win the vacant title.

It’s a shame that Pearce, a veteran of the sport for over 16 years has never received the just do that the man of his talents deserves. While the NWA title and the organization thrived for years under the management of the likes of Sam Muchnick, times have changed and the NWA has seen dark days for the type of wrestling that made me a fan of the sport.

With his years of experience in the ring and a desire to bring back the glory of the NWA World Title Adam Pearce has embarked on what he calls his “Last Ride tour”. 

His last trip to the Midwest was memorable to say the least as he made his way to Kansas City for Metro Pro Wrestling. The Challenger was Michael Strider, the setting a packed house at the Turner Rec Center on November 5^th, 2011. 

Steven J Girthy and NWA Central States Champion Jeremy Wyatt make their claim for the NWA World title. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

Earlier in the night at Metro Pro Wrestling, Jeremy Wyatt and his manager Steven J Girthy would let the fans know that it was he who deserved a match against Adam Pearce. Bringing to the ring  Wyatt read the hype surrounding him in the year 2011 including the KC Star where they ranked him the #1 wrestler in Kansas City and copies of the MWR article “Does Steven J Girthy have Jeremy Wyatt poised to become the NWA Champion of the World on Nov 5th at Metro Pro Wrestling ?”

Yet, it would be a classic matchup in the main event as  Strider looked to have earned his boyhood dream to become the NWA World Champion when he pinned Pearce as referee  Michael Crase Jr. counted 1-2-3.

The fans were ecstatic to see Michael Strider go for the NWA title in November at Metro Pro Wrestling. (Photo Credit Bill Smith)

Strider look to land the big move that would give the former NWA Central States champion his dream to become the NWA World Champion. (Photo Credit Bill Smith)

Strider the NWA World Champion??? (Photo Credit Bill Smith)

Matt Murphy, then the MPW comish goaded Strider to continue the match due to Pearce’s feet to be supposedly under the ropes. (Photo Credit Bill Smith)

While Strider went to celebrate with his fans and father, out to the ring came MPW commissioner Matt Murphy. Murphy claimed that Pearce’s feet were on the bottom of the ropes as Crase Jr. made the final third count to the mat.

 Murphy on the mic taunted Strider stating that “You don’t want to win the title like that; you want to be a man and win it like a Champion.”

Strider unwisely would make the decision to not take the title that way and agreed to have the match continue. It would be minutes later that Pearce would benefit a little assistance from Murphy when he tripped Strider, allowing Pearce to strike and use a roll up with his feet on the ropes to retain the title.

The next day I would travel to Collinsville, Illinois to cover Ring of Honor where fans came up to me, asking if in fact Michael Strider had become the NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion as they had seen on the NWA website, then was deleted as the NWA webmaster caught word of what had occurred.  Unfortunately, I had to deliver the bad news that Pearce along with Murphy had stolen the Worlds Championship from the former NWA Central States Champion Strider.

Little did we know how someone’s missed opportunities would allow Wyatt to get his wish at the NWA world title.

Fast forward to the final show of the year at 3Xrestling on December 30th.  3XWrestling Champion Jeremy Wyatt loses a close match against Mark Sterling after the “Iron Man” used the ringside bell to help Sterling began his first 3XWrestling title reign.

In the locker room, 3XWrestling camera’s captured Todd Countryman offering Sterling the contract. Let’s watch this once more to see how Wyatt and not Sterling received this dream match against the World Champion Adam Pearce.

So mark your calendars, ask for the day off, and make your way to Des Moines, Iowa at ALL PLAY as the Champion of the World Adam Pearce comes to defend his title against the 2-time 3XW Champion Wyatt. Wyatt is currently the NWA Central States Champion and only the 3^rd man in the history of the NWA to hold both the NWA Central States and the NWA Missouri title (He did this last year, Harley Race and Bob Orton being the other two men) Jeremy Wyatt.

Only the third man to hold the NWA Central States and Missouri Championship at the same time, Jeremy Wyatt(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

Though Adam Pearce used some underhand tactics to defeat Strider at Metro Pro Wrestling, make no doubt about it that he can defeat Wyatt in many many ways. Pearce in the past has successfully defended the NWA World Heavyweight Championship against Bryan Danielson (WWE’S Daniel Bryan, the reigning World Heavyweight Champion) and Danielson is just one name on a list of victims.

From the Apr '09 edition of Pro Wrestling Illustrated; Pearce bludgeons perhaps his greatest opponent, a bloody Brent Albright, in New York City.

Pearce brings the ring an old school high impact attack, standing 6’2, 245 pounds he will unleash a fury of moves including the Figure four leglock, Flying fist drop, and the Middle-rope elbow drop setting his opponents up for The Rack Bomb (Backbreaker rack dropped into a powerbomb) or the vicious Jumping piledriver to retain the title.

Quite honestly, after hours of studying tape of Pearce in action, you can see many of his opponents in fear of those finishers from the start of the match. 

Pearce will have to beware of the crossface finisher from Wyatt. Many matches and titles have been won via this feared move in the Midwest for “The Belt Collector” Jeremy Wyatt(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

One man who will not have fear in his eyes is the “The Belt Collector” Jeremy Wyatt.  Wyatt considered by many to be the best wrestler in the Midwest, has been dying for this opportunity to make a name for himself. He knows that opportunities likes these are very rare for wrestlers in the area. Quite possibly the most hated man in the Midwest, 3XWrestling fans have come to love him for his multiple matches of the year and giving a 110% during every match.

Wyatt can strike from anywhere!!!(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

Wyatt has many of the fans scattering for safety as he stalks Gage Octane. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

Opponents have to be concerned about going to the mat as Wyatt is a student of the game and is scary to defend against. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

Devin Carter goes flying from a right hook from Wyatt….Where Wyatt lacks in size he makes up with the knowledge of when and where to deliver the blow.(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

Wyatt has successfully defended his NWA Central States championship against arch rival and NWA Kansas champ Tyler Cook. In less than two weeks he goes for the NWA WORLD TITLE!!!(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

Wyatt most likely will be the first to tell you he is not doing this for the fans, yet he is the fans best chance to bring back the NWA Worlds title back home to the Midwest. 

Adam Pearce has been the heart of the NWA since his first NWA World title reign September 1st, 2007 when he defeated Brent Albright in the finals of the vacated NWA tournament. Here Pearce is on set of NWA Wrestling Showcase talking 'rasslin' with David Marquez. (Photo credit Shane Kidder.)

Is Pearce making a mistake as he makes good on his promise to “GIVE BACK to a deserving industry that has given me 16+ years of experiences that I’ll cherish forever.”

Onlu the kids are brave (naive)enough to talk back to the champ. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

Pearce has been wise in the past to align himself with men who can assist him in keeping his beloved gold, here he celebrates with the then MPW Champion Derek Stone and Matt Murphy. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

Pearce, a fighting champion will be around the world in  Oberhausen, Germany defending the title a week prior to his return to the Midwest. Fans in Iowa can prepare for a double shot starting off with match against Wyatt at 3XW then heading to Council Bluffs, Iowa for Magnum Pro Wrestling to take on “ Babyface” Tony Cortez the very next night.

With one Lighting Spiral from Wyatt on January 27^th at 3XWrestling, the NWA president Robert Trobich   and Magnum Pro may be scrambling late Friday night to come up with a plan to resign a rematch against the NEW NWA World Champion Jeremy Wyatt and Adam Pearce immediately. 

When it is all said and done, I want the NWA and Adam Pearce don’t say that Missouri Wrestling Revival didn’t try to warn you of “The Belt Collector”.

Great NWA world title moments in the Midwest.

April 3, 1908-Frank Gotch defeats George Hackenschmidt to become the world champion in Chicago, Illinois.

April 19, 1917 Earl Caddock defeated Joe Stecher to become the world champion in Omaha, Nebraska.

Earl Caddock was not only a world champion but also enlisted in the Army to serve our country. Fans be sure to pick up the new book from Mike Chapman called Caddock “Walnut’s Wrestling Wonder” on one of the best wrestlers to ever come from the Midwest. For more info on how to purchase the book click here.

 March 3,  1922  Ed “Strangler” Lewis defeated  Stanislaus Zbyszko to become the world champion in Wichita, Kansas.

Here is a great photo of two of the most powerful, respected and important men in the history of wrestling, Sam Muchnick and Lou Thesz.

December 29, 1937 Lou Thesz defeats Everett Marshall in the first of his six NWA world titles in ST Louis, Missouri.

June 30, 1961 Buddy Rogers defeats Pat O’Connor to win his first NWA world title in Chicago Illinois.

I love this photo of Harley Race. Arguably the greatest NWA World champion of all time.

May 24, 1973 Harley Race defeats Dory Funk Jr. to win first of 8 NWA world titles in Kansas City, Missouri.  Match named Pro Wrestling Illustrated match of the year.

Ric Flair would capture his first NWA World title right here in the Midwest in what many called an upset at the time.

September 17, 1981 Ric Flair defeats Dusty Rhodes to win first of 9 NWA world titles in Kansas City, Missouri.

June 10, 1983 Harley Race defeats Ric Flair for the NWA world title to set up Starcade.  Match named Pro Wrestling Illustrated match of the year.

February 20, 1989 Ricky Steamboat defeat Ric Flair to capture the NWA world title in Chicago, Illinois

January 27^th 2012 Jeremy Wyatt ???? Adam Pearce Des Moines, Iowa

Information of the NWA world title courtesy of the 16^th edition of the PWI Wrestling Almanac.

Could Jeremy Wyatt be defending the NWA WORLD TITLE at these MWR Promotions after January 27th?

MWR fans for a great source of the NWA check out the Alliance-Wrestling.com here.

MWR Managers roundtable with Chad Mylan, Johnny Gold, Mr Late Nite, The Magic Man, Todd Countryman and Travis Cook.

During the last MWR Roundtable we got insight from the Referees in the sport of wrestling (Take the time to check it out here) , today we are joined with us today a few of the very best minds in the game today, the managers. A group of men and women who gives their protégés an advantage going into the match….or they hope so.

Throughout the years in the sport they have been loved and hated. Names such as Bobby The Brain Hennan, Jim Cornett, “Captain Lou” Albano, Jimmy Hart and Paul E Dangerously are among the very best the sport Todd Countryman – There have been a lot of great memories as a promoter, referee & manager. Some of my favorite manager moments have been the night the Gentlemen’s Club formed in November 2007, our feud with the Northstar Express and Brian Ash joining the Gentlemen’s Club this year. has known.

On a personal basis, I can still remember Gary Hart unmasking Abdullah the Butcher prior to going to war with Bruiser Brody, the great interviews of Jim Cornett leading the Midnight Express and yes even the drama that came with the lovely Miss Elizabeth coming to the ring with the Macho Man Randy Savage.

I was able to sit down with The Magic Man, Mr. Late Nite, Chad Mylan, Johhny Gold and Travis Cook to get the views from some of the best in the field of managing in the Midwest.

How did you get into the business?

Travis Cook has had problems with authority in the past.

Travis Cook – I had an acquaintance who started his own promotion back in the Mid-90’s—Midwest Renegade Wrestling. I started doing time keeping and general “gopher” work for that promotion, and eventually started refereeing, which I transitioned to full time for the remainder of the 1990’s. The rest, as they say, is history.

The Magic Man with Pete Madden.

The Magic Man – I was performing as a “street magician” in Venice Beach, California in the late 80′s when word amongst the various performers was that Pro-Wrestling was about to become very popular and that a guy named Vince McMahon was going to do some major hiring. I remembered that my home town of Saint Louis, Missouri used to be the major hub of all professional wrestling (I enjoyed many, many matches at The Kiel Auditorium with my Grandpa!), so I returned home to figure out where to go or who to see to try to get in to the sport. I was already a fairly popular entertainer in the St. Louis area and had an idea about a manager character that I could perform as a magician.

After searching around the area, I found the South Broadway Athletic Club that hosts the Mid-Missouri Wrestling Alliance/Southern Illinois Championship Wrestling. I went to their secret practice facility (not so secret if I was able to find out about it!) and met John Blackheart and several other members there. I pitched my idea to them and they asked me to show them a few of the gimmicks I had in mind.

They immediately liked my ideas and took me in and began to train me. It wasn’t very long, maybe two months, before Tony Casta booked me to be a manager on one of their monthly shows. On the night of my first wrestling gig I was surprised and disappointed that they FIRED the other manager they had (on the spot) and replaced him wth ME! I was unaware that Tony Casta has a policy of only using one manager. I felt really bad for the other guy because he was good ( I had gone to the S.B.A.C. to watch a few live performances before I got my chance) and they didn’t even have the decency to tell him he had been replaced until after the show had already begun.

Piss-poor politics….that’s the standard at Broadway. However, all said and done…they DID give me my first shot at being in Professional Wrestling.

MR Late Nite helps Cameron Cage bring pain to Brandon Aarons.

Mr. Late Nite- I started in the business with Missouri (later Midwest) Powerhouse Wrestling in the summer of 2001. I can’t say I ever really had a lot of fun working there. None of the management worked with me to help me improve. I left the company later that same year.

Johnny Gold with Superstar Steve Fender.

Johnny Gold -Well most people already know, Harley race is my step father.

Todd Countryman – In early 2005 I met David Andersen & Steve Biley. Together we created 3XWrestling. From there I ended up getting involved in our events as a ring announcer, referee and eventually as a manager.

Chad Mylan -Todd Countryman, one of the owners of 3XWrestling told me at my high school graduation party that he was thinking of opening up a wrestling company and asked me if I was willing to help out in some capacity or another. I gladly obliged.

How long have you been in the sport?

Travis Cook -Off and on (mainly “on”) for about 15 years.

Todd Countryman – 3XW’s first event was July 2005.

The Magic Man was one of the first to bring Sir Bradley Charles to St Louis....SBC and the Magic Man quickly parted ways.

The Magic Man- I have been in this “sport” for around 20 years but I have been a Magician for over 40 years. The first time I ever got PAID to perform as a magician I was seven years old. That’s well over 40 years ago!

Mr. Late Nite- I’ve been in the wrestling business since the summer of 2001, like I mentioned previously. My time with MPW was very short and only lasted about 5 months. I wouldn’t return to wrestling until 2006, when I joined Full Throttle Wrestling. I stayed there for a year and left in 2007, citing creative differences. I came back a third time in the summer of 2009 with Independent Hardcore Wrestling. It was the first time I had fun in the wrestling business and I was given a great deal of creative freedom. After that, I started getting booked in other towns with other companies. I finally got to showcase my abilities the way I wanted.

Johhny Gold- Going on 13 years.

Chad Mylan distracts the ref while the Mauler uses a chain on Tony Raze.

Chad Mylan- A little over 5 years, doing various things. Managing, running sound, running lights, play-by-play broadcasting, color commentary, interviews…I try to amerce myself in anything.

Were you trained as wrestler?

Todd Countryman – I have had minimal training in the ring, but did not go through a complete wrestling training course.

Travis Cook- I did go through some wrestling training, and I can take bumps and do some of the basics, but I’d never consider myself a “wrestler” per say. If I have to, I can work an entertaining match in such a manner that my limitations are taken into account—but I certainly don’t have the ability or athleticism to wrestle week in and week out. In my mind, there’s a world of difference between what I do and what an actual, honest-to-goodness, professional wrestler does.

The Magic Man- Yes and no…..at first I was merely trained as a manager (to know how to take a few bumps when it calls for it and timing….lots of timing practice…like when or when NOT to do something in the match). Later as we approached a big angle we had built (“we” meaning the wrestlers in the crew—NOT the promoter Tony Casta {he wouldn’t know what an “angle” was if it smacked him in the face!} the boys began to train me more as a wrestler so I could have a match with The Drill Instructor (READ HIS BOOK> “Blood, Tables, and Chairs The Story of an Independent Wrestler” IT’S GOOD!).

Mr. Late Nite- No. MPW wanted to train me as a wrestler, but I didn’t see how that was necessary. You don’t teach wrestling holds to a guy who wants to stand outside the ring and talk.

Johnny Gold- Yes

Chad Mylan- . I never formally had training to be a wrestler. I prefer to let the trained professional athletes do what they’re paid to do. That’s not to say that there isn’t any training involved. It’s vital to learn your basic bumps, certainly, but managing is more of a mental and verbal focus. What I’m saying is that you aren’t going to see Chad Mylan busting out any huricanranas. But a solid slap to the face while the referee’s back is turned? Yeah, I’ll do that.

Who trained you?

Travis Cook- What formal training I had occurred at Dory Funk Jr.’s camp. But a ton of guys have had a role in teaching me different things over the last decade and a half. If I named them all, I’m sure I’d take up several paragraphs and still leave out some people. But I’ll say that, back in the 90’s when I was an referee in MRW, I was fortunate to be around absolutely the best talent in the Midwest week in and week out –and I learned a ton from everybody that was in that promotion…a lot of things that helped me later on as an announcer and as a manager, even though I wasn’t doing either of those jobs at the time.

The Magic Man- John Blackheart and Pete “The Human Wrecking-Ball” Madden.

Mr. Late Nite- I’d like to say somebody trained me, but I can’t. I trained myself.

Johnny Gold- James Grizzle (Griz) and Harley Race.

Mylan has no problems getting involved as Mark Sterling found out during his match with Kwong.

Chad Mylan- Brian Ash has certainly helped me in the ways of learning not to seriously injure myself or others.

Todd Countryman – Brian Ash, Gage Octane

What was the training like?

Todd Countryman – Very hard work & painful. It makes you really appreciate what all of these athletes do.

Travis Cook- When I was in Dory Funk Jr.s camp, I was essentially the guy who took the ass-kicking in every one of our practice matches—and this made sense because I had the least amount of experience of anybody there. However, I always believed that was an opportunity because *every* good manager needs to have the ability to take an ass-kicking when the babyface finally gets ahold of them. Also, they made it a point to do promos every day as part of the training, and that was something that I excelled at very early. I think I always knew what it took to make a good manager, but once I actually got in there and took the punishment and started doing promos, that’s when I started having the confidence to believe “hey, I’ve really got something here”.

The Magic Man- The training was actually fun. I have never ever been athletically inclined (hence “magician” <{another word for “geek”}) and it was a unique opportunity for me. I learned how to take all the bumps “wrong” much like a manager character SHOULD do. This later helped me out in my career as a ‘wrestler’ in Michinoku-Pro in Japan.

Mr. Late Nite- I would practice promos anywhere and everywhere. I’d do them in the car or while I was at home. I’d practice facial expressions in my bathroom mirror while I was shaving. It sounds a bit unorthodox, but that’s what helped me during those times when I wasn’t in the business and couldn’t practice in front of a live crowd. Another thing that helped me was lying to my parents as a kid and faking sick to get out of school. I had to really act to fool the school and my parents!

Johnny Gold- Just like everyone else “hard”.

Chad Mylan- Brian Ash slammed me, avalanched me, Jimmy Rockwell dropped a flying elbow on me that took my breath away, and not in a Gone With the Wind kind of way. It’s painful, it’s brutal. But it’s neccessary. You have to know what you’re doing out there.

What promotions have to you worked for?

Travis Cook- Far more than I can name—and a good many of them that aren’t in business anymore! Off the top of my head, I did refereeing for MRW, managing for RCW, UWA, MMWA-SICW, and different promotions outside of St. Louis (most of which seem to have initials of which I can never seem to remember). Announcing for GCW, a second version of MRW that popped up in Kansas City a few years back, and MMWA-SICW. And different one-shots here and there all over the place over the years.

Todd Countryman – I’ve only managed in 3XW. I have worked as a referee for 3XW, Metro Pro, PWP, CSW, Dynamo Pro & Magnum Pro. I have also done ring announcing in 3XW & PWP. I was also the sound guy at several NWA No Limits events.

The Magic Man- MMWA/SICW, Steel City Wrestling, NWA-New England, Michinoku-Pro (Japan), Frontier Martial Arts Wrestling (FMW) (Japan), BattleArts (Japan), High-Voltage Wrestling Mid-West, Metro Pro Wrestling, NWA Dynamo and so many other indie federations I can’t possibly list them all here. You name one, I’ve probably worked there. I’ve been around the block, baby!

Mr. Late Nite- MPW and FTW (but I’m not proud of those). IHW, PWE, NBWA, and PWN.

Chad Mylan- 3XWrestling mainly. I’ve also worked for MECW, and I helped out during a 3XWrestling/IPW co-promoted show and NWA No-Limits. I also did a handful of interviews for MWR’s Best of the Midwest show.

Johnny Gold- WLW, Metro Pro Wrestling, and many others.

Who did you look up to as far as managers go in the sport?

Travis Cook- Bobby Heenan, Jim Cornette, Skandor Akbar, Jimmy Hart (particularly his work in Memphis, which, in my opinion, blows his WWE work out of the water). And one guy that few people think of as a manager, but he was a great one—Eddie Gilbert.

Todd Countryman – Bobby Heenan is incredible. I am a huge fan of JJ Dillon. I also enjoyed Jimmy Hart & Paul E. Dangerously. Jim Mitchell is a great man as well.

The Magic Man and Brett Young have had problems recently at Metro Pro Wrestling.

The Magic Man- Bobby “The Brain” Heenan is my all-time favorite but I also admire Jim Cornette and especially Paul Hayman.

MR Late Nite with Cameron Cage.

Mr. Late Nite- Jim Cornette, Paul Heyman, and Bobby “The Brain” Heenen.

Johnny Gold- The best Jim Cornette.

Chad Mylan- Jim Cornette certainly for his gift of being a verbal technician of the mouth. But probably the number one guy has to be Jimmy Hart. Hart, probably more so than any manager just had the look and sound to his voice that absolutely annoyed you. I mean, someone who would LOUDLY talk trash so everyone could hear him..how could you not hate the guy? He and I were not blessed with body defining genetics. But it didn’t really matter, because if you’re in the right place at the right time, a little distraction is sometimes all you need.

Who was your first protégé?

Todd Countryman – Gage Octane & Mark Sterling as we formed the Gentlemen’s Club.

Travis Cook- Down in Florida, I managed a guy named Big Bad John for Dory Funk Jr’s “Bang!” promotion. The guy was huge, in great shape, and was absolutely terrified of a microphone. So I saw an opportunity and volunteered to do all the talking for him while I was down there. It was a perfect situation to learn how to help someone get over in spite of their limitations—and at the end of the day, that’s the entire point of having a manager.

The Magic Man- Not sure what you mean by “Who was your first protege?”. I know what the word “protégé” means, I just don’t have anybody that I am modeling to be like myself and I never tried to be exactly like any of the managers I admire. If you mean “Who was one of your first wrestlers in your stable?” it was none other than my favorite of all time – “The Human Wrecking-Ball” Pete Madden!

Mr. Late Nite- The Beast. I managed him when I started in the business. We would do this thing where Beast was wearing a tribal mask. I would take it off of him and he would go nuts and attack his opponent. After the match, I would put the mask back on him and it would calm him down.

Chad Mylan- “The Laotian Sensation” Ricky Kwong. I taught him to fully embrace his heritage despite what the fans though. I also taught him some English so that he won’t constantly be a victim of a “random bag check” at the airport. I’m just saying…

Johnny Gold- Griz

Who was else have you managed?

Todd Countryman has been the brains behind the success of men like Gage Octane.

Todd Countryman – Brian Ash, Casanova & Devin Carter and in 2011 I have managed Genesis .

Travis Cook- Down in Florida, I managed a guy named Big Bad John for Dory Funk Jr’s “Bang!” promotion. The guy was huge, in great shape, and was absolutely terrified of a microphone. So I saw an opportunity and volunteered to do all the talking for him while I was down there. It was a perfect situation to learn how to help someone get over in spite of their limitations—and at the end of the day, that’s the entire point of having a manager.

The Magic Man- Oh, man, there have been so many memorable wrestlers I have managed….the fabulous “T. Rantula” of Steel City Wrestling and WCW fame, The Texas Hangmen (Psycho & Killer), Mascara Magica (the Magic Mask) from Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre, Kahagas, Sir Bradley Charles <(that guy is going to go places!), “The Future” Donnovan Ruddick <(he’s going places too!), “Flash” Flanagan (or “Slash Venom if you’re in Puerto Rico), The Hooligans (Devin & Mason Cutter), …oh the list goes on and on. Too many to list here.

Mr. Late Nite- Marcus Mansfield, the Stud, Christian Haze, Xander Frost, Curtis Payne, Graves, Cabal, and Michael Gideon Morbid. I recently started managing “The Future’ Donovan Ruddick and I managed Mason Beck for a show. It’s been such a blast managing Ruddick. He listens to my ideas and he’s extremely easy to get along with. He’s a true professional in every sense of the word. Editors Note: MR Late Nite managed Cameron Cage to the IHW Title while leading both Eric Allen and Ace Hawkins in 2011 since this interview has taken place.

Chad Mylan- I’m freshly breaking into my managerial career at the moment, so Ricky Kwong has been my only diamond in the rough thus far. Unless you count the 8 man tag we had at Vets Auditorium where I also managed Brian Ash, Devin Carter, and Casanova. Unfortunately we lost that match, thanks in part to facing, amongst others, a freaking RIVER MONSTER. I kept telling Kwong to poke him in the gills to cut off his air circulation, but the language barrier once again came into play.

Johnny Gold- Wow I have had 13 world title, 23 tag team titles, and five women’s world titles being held by someone that I have managed. To name a few there is Griz, Superstar Steve, Matt Murphy those three and myself are the original “Gold Exchange”. There is also dangerous Derek Mcquinn, Haku (Meng), Miss Natural, Ty Dalton and others.

Who would like to manage on the independent scene that you have not had the chance to work with?

Travis Cook- Well, I’m retired right now, so the short answer is “nobody”! I’m perfectly content outside the wrestling business at this point. That being said, there’s two guys out there that—way in the back of my head—I have a storyline for each of them that I think could work. I won’t mention here who either of them are–if the opportunity ever comes up to work with either of them, I want to be able to pitch the idea to the promoter myself…so I trust that you’ll understand if I don’t tip my hand here, the risk of somebody “taking” the idea and using it for themselves is too great! I’ll say this much, neither one of these guys currently have any idea that I would potentially have any interest in either of them…but if the opportunity were to come up, I’ll be ready

The Magic Man- Sinn Bodhi or possibly the exotic “Cassandro” !

Todd Countryman – I would welcome the opportunity to manage a lot of the talented wrestlers on the independents.

Mr. Late Nite- I’d like to manage Mason Beck more. Mason’s a total package in the ring. He’s got the look, the skill, and the charisma. Another guy I’d like to manage is Jimmy Karryt. I gained a lot of respect for him during his matches with “Future” this year. He’s young, but he’s got a good head on his shoulders and he’s very respectful, not to mention a lot of fun to be around. I’d also like to manage a tag team again.

Chad Mylan- The company I have founded in part of a generous donation from the Laotion government, MMA: The Mylan Management Agency is always looking for talent worldwide. I have my eye on a few existing talent, but as far as current local independent talent is concerned, The Mississippi Madman and Maddog McDowell certainly come to mind. What can I say? I like my underlings mean and monstrous.

Johnny Gold- Mark Sterling or Derek Stone.

What has been one of your fondest memories thus far in the sport?

For months Travis Cook tempted Donovan Ruddick to become part of the Connection. Ruddick would finally joined Cooks group and quickly rose among the top in the Midwest.

Travis Cook- I like to say that I’ve had my ass kicked by more Hall of Famers than any other manager I know! Within the last few years, I’ve been attacked by Rocky Johnson, beaten in a steel cage match by Bob Orton, taken the Claw from Baron Von Raschke, and appeared as “Friday” at a wrestling legends convention with Kamala. My biggest thrill was at that convention, sitting on the same stage with guys like Roddy Piper, Jimmy Snuka, Paul Orndorff, The Midnight Express, Ted Dibiase, The Funk Brothers, The Rock & Roll Express, and many others. That was one of those “What the heck did I do to deserve to sit alongside *these* guys” moments! Also, the last year I managed in MMWA-SICW, myself, Donovan Ruddick, and Brandon Espinosa got the chance to do a storyline that I’d wanted to do for several years, but just couldn’t find the “right” guys to pull it off previously. However, Espinosa and Ruddick were the perfect guys to do it, and it was great to finally implement it and see the crowd reaction it got. That was truly a gratifying moment. Also, getting the chance to work with Larry Matysik on the creative end of the business was tremendously exciting, and something I’ve learned an awful lot from.

The Magic Man- Appearing and performing magic and wrestling in front of 30,000 fans in Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Hall in Tokyo, Japan for a Michinoku-Pro Wrestling Pay-Per-View on a National Holiday (All Sports Day) on October 10th, 1997. (over 100,000 watching on PPV!).

Mr. Late Nite- Managing “The Future” Donovan Ruddick, getting booked @ NBWA, PWE, and PWN, performing in front of 1,000 people @ the PWE Lincoln Arts & Balloon Festival show, and being in a feud with Mephisto in IHW.

Chad Mylan- Doing commentary for 3XW for the first time certainly sticks out. It had always been a dream of mine that guy, the lead guy, setting up the matches for the fans, calling those exciting moments, and finding offense in the shenanigans of the bad guys. Being a supposed “bad guy” now though, I clearly see how much of an idiot I was. The bad guys get things done.

Johnny Gold- Getting Mr. socko’d by Mic Foley in front of five thousand people in Springfield Missouri.

What is the easiest way for a manager to get a reaction from the fans?

Travis Cook- I’m not real sure how to answer that question. I guess that every manager has their “go to” spots in order to get a reaction—but really, if you don’t naturally have a bad attitude or you’re not really a jerk (at least to some extent) in real life, then you’ll never be able to get the reaction you need to get from people as a manager no matter what you do. If you are genuinely a nice, humble person in real life, then there isn’t anything easy you can do as a manager in order to get a reaction. But, on the other hand, if you really do have that “anything to get ahead” streak to some extent in real life that a manager is supposed to portray, then you’ll have no problem getting the reaction out of fans that you want…in fact, you’ll barely have to think about it. Fortunately for me, I’ve always had an aspect of my personality that would do “anything to win”, so I suppose that’s why I made the transition to managing so easily.

The Magic Man- I don’t know about other managers, but for me….I just walk out there, twirl my mustache and grin….then I pick my nose and flick a booger into the audience!

Mr. Late Nite- Find out what traits people hate in other human beings and do them. Most people when they’re trying to be a heel just say “shut up” or use generic cut downs. That’s cheap. What you have to do is think about all the people that you just can’t stand personally and then try to be like them. Odds are, if you hate those traits, other people will hate them too.

Chad Mylan with the Mauler.

Chad Mylan- I’m a big proponent is using the “if there weren’t cameras rolling, I’d punch you square in the ovaries.” I’ve threatened to take children to orphanages; I’ve thrown ridiculous over-the-top celebrations after victories. Once I played an air banjo version of the song Banjo Ho-Down because I thought it would help me better connects with the fans in southern St. Louis. I’ll really stoop to any level, honestly. Morals really aren’t an issue with me.

What is the most common mistakes a manger makes on the independent scene?

Just when referee Jeromy Robb thought he stopped Todd Countryman from interfering on Zach Thompsons behalf….

Countryman masterfully distracts Robb while his other stable mate Casanova stops Rockwell from hitting a big move on Thompson.

Todd Countryman – Standing there and doing nothing. A manager should be involved in the match without taking all of the attention away from the wrestlers.

Johnny Gold- A common mistake by other managers is by insulting the people in the crowd. That is what I call getting a cheap reaction “cheap heat”. The best is by not getting caught by the ref when you interfere in a match!!

Travis Cook- There’s two of them—not paying attention to the match, and worrying more about getting yourself over instead of getting the guy you are managing over. If your wrestler is selling, you SHOULD NOT be turning your back and interacting with the crowd at that point. Psychology-wise, your “financial investment” is getting his brains beaten out at that point—you should be focused on getting him out of that predicament than arguing with some toothless hillbilly in the front row. I see tons of guys do it and it makes steam come out of my ears every time!

The Magic Man- The biggest mistake these new punks make is walking out there wearing wrinkled-up, dirty, common street clothes they bought at Wal-Mart three years ago. They look like slobs and they make it look like anybody can do this. We are performers and we should look a step up from the crowd. A manager should separate him or herself from the common fans.

Mr. Late Nite- Just standing there. A lot of male managers do that. They just stand around the side of the ring and don’t do very much (if anything at all). Male managers are already dying out to make way for a bunch of women with large breasts and no personalities. For us to just stand there and do nothing is a disservice to our profession and a disservice to those who have paved the way for us to be here (i.e. Heyman, Heenen, Cornette, Blassie, etc.). We have to be as animated and vocal as we can to get people to notice us.

Chad Mylan- Not paying attention. It’s so easy to get caught up in interacting with the fans, but you have to realize that there’s a match going on. You don’t want to be the main focus of the match, but you also don’t want the fans to forget that you’re out there and you’re smarter than the goon they’re cheering for. Also getting caught. Those refs will disqualify you, because they’re idiots.

Johnny Gold- I have been in matches with some of the all time greats. Dustin and Dusty Rhodes, Meng, the Barbarian, Mic Foley, the Harris brother (DOA), Terry Funk, Buff Bagwell, The Abyss, Ted Diabise, Vader, Greg “the hammer” Valentine, Honky Tonk man, Harley Race and I know there is a lot more that I cant remember right now.

Who have been your favorite wrestlers to guide throughout the years?

Todd Countryman – All of them. Each person really has been a different experience, but all positive. Mark Sterling, Gage Octane, Brian Ash, Devin Carter & Casanova have all been great to manage.

Travis Cook- I’ve enjoyed almost all of them, but I suppose my favorites were Brandon Espinosa & Donovan Ruddick…and again, that was mainly because we got to do an angle that I’d had in the back of my head for several years, and they were the perfect guys to pull it off. I think we got more heat with what we did than anything else I’ve ever been a part of in my career.

The Magic Man- My favorites would definitely have to include “The Human Wrecking-Ball” Pete Madden our characters went well together). Then I would have to mention “T. Rantula” from Pittsburgh, PA. He is a big man and takes control of the match and we also go good together although I really like his main manager The Black Widow (his lovely wife).

Mr. Late Nite- The only one that I’ve ever had fun managing has been Donovan Ruddick.

Chad Mylan- Like I said before, my managerial career has just began. Irregardless, Ricky Kong has been a joy to manage. Not just because of the fact that he’s the pride of a nation, but because he’s helped make The Mylan Management Agency bigger than wrestling. Seriously, do a Yahoo search for MMA then Pro Wrestling. MMA has more hits. That’s a Yahoo fact, kids.

Johnny Gold uses his cain and the ropes on The Iceman while the ref is looking away.

Johnny Gold- You can get some fans heated up to much in a match. You are always on the outside out the ring. Some promotions don’t always have a ring barrier so you need to keep moving around. I have been clubbed from behind by a fan not liking what I was doing to Trevor Murdock outside the ring. lol

Why do you feel that the use of managers have scaled down through the years?

Todd Countryman – There was a big shift to valets/women being used in that role several years ago. I don’t know the exact reason, but it is unfortunate to see the manager be phased out. It is a role that can add so much to a wrestling event and/or a match itself. A manager can be a mouthpiece for a guy that can’t talk and help them build feuds.

Travis Cook- I think the biggest reason is because both of the national promotions have gone to fully scripted promos on their TV shows. In the old days, you gave a guy a manager because he was good in the ring, but lacking behind the microphone. But since wrestlers no longer get to do their own promos in WWE or TNA, I assume they feel that the need is no longer there for a manager to “talk” for a wrestler—after all (in their flawed logic), it doesn’t matter if a guy isn’t good at doing promos, because “creative” will be writing all the promos for them anyway. I think both promotions are really missing the boat because they aren’t using managers anymore.

The Magic Man- The use of managers has been drastically scaled down since they started using “valets” or pretty girls to stand around at ringside looking sexy but having no clue whatsoever as to what the hell they are supposed to be doing out there. If they give them a “spot” it is usually so obvious that the spot is coming that the crowd doesn’t POP because they lost the element of surprise. If they are going to go with “valets” they should at least train them as to how to be a manager in some respect.  Do I sound bitter? Yeah, well I guess ‘Free LOVE ‘ will always trump ‘Free Magic Tricks’.

Mr. Late Nite- Vince McMahon is the industry leader, so whatever trends he starts, the rest of the wrestling world tends to mimic. Since McMahon has pushed aside male managers, lots of wrestling companies have chosen to do the same thing. It’s the “Well it works for Vince, so it’ll work for us” philosophy. That’s not always true. Doing things Vince doesn’t do gets you noticed a lot more than trying to be like him. It’s like watching Sleepy Hallow at the theater and then watching a 3rd grade presentation of Sleepy Hallow. The acting isn’t quite as good and the sets look cheap. Be special. Give people something different.

Chad Mylan- There’s great importance in the wrestler having the ability to talk for themselves, since they are the ones people are paying their money to see. People don’t spend their hard earned cash to go see a manager. Despite all that, having a manager at ringside can provide extra drama to the match, and through in-ring or backstage interviews their verbal talents can be used to draw people into a match that they normally might not be that into.

Johnny Gold- I don’t think I can name just one! myself, Griz, Superstar Steve and Matt Murphy started the gold exchanged and at that time in my opinion there were not any better four heels in the Indy scene and maybe better than some in the “show”

What goals do you have in wrestling in the future?

Little did Travis Cook and MMWA –SICW Commissioner Keith Smith know that MWR caught them speaking to each other at a NWA Dynamo show. Could a return of the Manager of Champions be in the works?

Travis Cook- None…after all, I am retired! That being said, if the right situation came up—either financially or creatively (or preferably both) –then I’d certainly be open to discussing it. Put it this way—if I ever come back, it’ll be for something good!

The Magic Man- I plan to return to Japan to have a retirement match with Shinzaki Jinsei (Hakushi) for Michinoku-Pro at some point but I also have offers to perform in England for two different promotions. I am looking into all of this as I wait for my Passport renewal to be approved. I also have several other plans related to the wrestling industry that I am unwilling to reveal at this time.

MR Late Nite at times have bitten off more than he can chew as he did here against U-Gene and the Madman.

Mr. Late Nite- To get booked in more towns and for more companies to get my name out there. I’d like to eventually land a contract with one of the major wrestling companies in the country. I’d also like to be on shows in other countries too.

Todd Countryman – I am always aiming to improve my skills in whatever I do in wrestling. I would like to continue managing for as long as I can and I would like to continue as a referee as well. I don’t hold any illusions of a WWE or TNA contract at all, but want to be the best that I can be.

Chad Mylan- Easy. World domination, a lucrative, long term contract, and to not get punched in the face by a do-gooder. Again.

Gold has had problems in the past with the Legends such as Piper.

Johnny Gold- Oh yeah there isn’t any in WWE at all. go back just twelve or so years you had Paul Heyman, Harley Race, Jimmy Hart, Bobby Heanen, Paul Bearer and others I’m forgetting. All of those guys all added something to the show!!

How can a promotion or wrestler get in touch with you?

They can reach me on facebook under my name, Travis Cook. Also, they send an email to inbox for my political TV show on Youtube “America’s Evil Genius”: americasevilgenius@hotmail.com

The Magic Man- Promotions and Wrestlers can contact me with LEGITIMATE OFFERS at magicman667@msn.com or at my MySpace page (www.myspace.com/magicmanjack) or at my Facebook page under the name “Jack Sinn”. I will then send them a phone number to call if further info is needed.

Mr. Late Nite- Fans and promoters can reach me at these.
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=632226302
Facebook Fan Page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mr-Late-Nite/245752018103?ref=nf
E-mail: mrlatenite82@yahoo.com

Chad Mylan- I’m Facebook accessible. You can contact 3XWrestling@gmail.com also. Or if you happen to live in Laos, your local mail gondola can drop off a letter of commitment to the Mylan Management Agency at the Laotian Grand Palace.

Johnny Gold Well I don’t do as much managing in WLW anymore since Mrs. Race (my mother) passed away. How can a promotion or wrestler get in touch with you MY EMAIL IS johnnygold2001@yahoo.com

Todd Countryman – By e-mail 3xwrestling@gmail.com or Facebook.-

15) The High Flyers (Mike Sydal and Zach Thompson)

When two of the most popular young wrestling came together to form the High Flyers, fans where all smiles but those same cheers gave their opponents extra motivation to bring the pain. How much loved where the High Flyers? Fans were seen crying during moments when “Delicious” Devin Carter, Casanova along with Todd Countryman of The Gentleman’s Club continually used underhanded tactics during one of their matches.

With victories over Sexy & Smooth and a huge win against TNA Wrestling star “The Middle Eastern Nightmare” Sheik Abdul Bashir and his brother Arya Daivari when they nailed a double standing moonsaults by excellent back-and-forth tag team match which saw the fans thrilled after the High Flyers picked up the huge win over a national star like Bashir, a former X-Division titleholder.

When their arch rival the Gentlemans Clubs manager 3XW Commissioner, Todd Countryman forced them to wrestle in a Loser Leaves 3XW match in May 2010, which Thompson won. In September 2010, Sydal shockingly ran into the building to save Thompson from a beat down after losing to Brian Ash. Countryman declared that if Thompson could beat Ash in October, then Sydal would be re-instated to 3XW, but Sydal was also banned from the building for that show. Thompson pull off the big upset and beat Ash, re-instating Sydal.

Sydal injured his knee coming off the top rope in their big return match as a team in November against American Ground & Air (Sailer & Bash). Since Sydal returned, they never really got in-sync again as team, possibly giving Thompson motivation to join Genesis in March 2011, where Thompson sneak attacked Mark Sterling to cause him to lose a Lumberjack match to Brian Ash.

2010 Missouri Wrestling Revival Award winners

What a great year 2010 was for pro wrestling in the Midwest. Shows throughout the Midwest showed a steady growth in an economy that is struggling.

The biggest companies in the World, WWE and TNA both had pay per views in the Midwest. Fans were able to meet the stars at TNA’S fan fest. The ST Louis Wrestling Hall of Fame honored Dory Funk JR, Bobby the Brain Heenan and Baron von Raschke with their inductions to the hall of fame during the celebration.

Wrestling returned to Kansas City in a big way when Metro Pro Wrestling debut at the historic Memorial Hall with special guest Tommy Dreamer and a TV deal on Metro Sports. Led by former WWE Superstar Trevor Murdock, the Metro roster has to step up their game if they are to be the best if they are to stand out of the 3 time WWE Tag Team Champions shadow.

We were happy to add New Midwest Wrestling to our coverage area.At MWR we have seen some of the NMW talents in past in Dan the Man and Ryan Phoenix but we quickly saw that Bobby Houston, Eric Logan and NMW Champion Jonathan Magnus are just a few that are worthy of seeing in action as well.

Once again we were able to enjoy another great PWE show at the Lincoln Balloon Festival. PWE later in the year saw Donovan Ruddick and Mason Beck go up against the fun lovin former WWE Star U-Gene and the Mississippi Madman.

We were able to see PWP get out of the grasp of the Murder Militia in a classic War Games match while on the other side of the state 3XWrestling continued their standard of providing the fans with great wrestling and an up and close look at their great website including the monthly Outside the Ring program.

In ST Louis MMWA-SICW was the 2009 MWR Promotion of the Year, but they did not rest on their laurels. They continued to train young wrestlers while bringing in some of the very best in Mark Sterling and Mike Sydal, fans where also  thrilled to see old favorites return like Danny Boy and Ron Powers.

AAPW had one of the very best feuds in the Midwest with Shane Rich turning his back on his good friend Edmund “Livewire” McGuire.

NWA Dynamo has brought back some of the GCW flavor and packed the house in a great show in the summer with Pete Madden and Mike Sharona going to war with Nikki Strychnine and Makaze in the main event.

HVW had a slow year but was proud to boast that HVW Original Santana G had made her way to Florida with a great opportunity to valet on Spike TV for TNA with Orlando Jordan.

World League Wrestling is primed to be at their very best with the young talent training at the Harley Race Wrestling Academy. Don’t be surprised to see the talents of Jason Jones, the Cancun Kid, Lucy Mendez, Jack Gamble, Brian Breaker and Ethan Wright hold titles throughout the Midwest and beyond in the near future.

IHW proved that they were one of the best with entertaining shows that grew more and more fans each time. Brandon Aarons has turned into the one of the biggest fan favorites in all of the Midwest. Eric Allen and Sean Vincent would test the skills of the rising young star.

MECW mixed hometown flavor with a dose of Windy City Wrestling, including former WWE Star Mike Anthony and the one and only Bailey Mannix along with teen heart throb Evan Money.

IWA Unlimited provided the fans of Olney Illinois with free wrestling each Wednesday. High flying and hard hitting action gave the wrestlers a chance to improve their skills in a great environment.

IWA Productions packed the house with special guest The Honky Tonk Man but it was the local fans that stole the show when Christian Rose and Danny Cannon tore the roof off the place.

NWA Supreme shows may not have that many shows but the ones they did have where filled with some of the best stars locally and nationally.

MWR wrestlers have been active working to get to the top. Mike Sydal was announced as the 2009 PWI Rookie of the year while Midwest stars Mark Sterling, Ace Hawkins, Brandon Espinosa all made appearances with Ring of Honor.

The fans and friends of Barry Ryte showed their support for their guy after he was diagnosed with cancer causing him to back out of the 2010 ECWA Super 8 tournament. Barry has shown in the ring that he has the heart of a champion, and that fighting spirit has helped him It has been announced that he has been cleared to wrestle in 2011. If we had an inspirational wrestler of the Year he would have won hands down.

Fans were blessed to have the Champion of the World Tyler Black make their way to their hometown as Tyler Black met Jeremy Wyatt at 3Xwrestling in Des Moines Iowa, while in Illinois Black went one on one with Brandon Aarons.

This fall word got out that the Future Donovan Ruddick had made his way to Florida with a developmental contract for WWE. He joined the before mentioned Black who has since lost his title to Roderick Strong but we all know the best is yet to come for Tyler Black.

I hope that you have enjoyed the coverage of all of your favorite promotions. It is with the hard work of Dubray Tallman, Mike Van Hoogstraat, Bill Smith, Gary Giaffoglione, Matt Murphy, Greg Anthony , Dartallion Allen, Mark Campos, Josh Ray and Rob Schamberger that makes the site what it is today.

We would like to thank the promoters and wrestlers that support the site for the past three years.

Last but not least thank you so much to the fans of pro wrestling in the Midwest. Take the time to see a wrestler before they become the next Superstar.

On January first we were proud to announce that Mike Chapman was named as the 2010 MWR Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. For more info on Mike Chapman click here.

Now with further ado I give you the 2010 MWR yearly awards.

2010 Wrestler of the Year

Mike Sydal-

Mike Sydal (Photo Credit Scott Finkelstein)

The wrestler of the year was a close vote this year as the surge of Mark Sterling coming within votes to be named for the second year in a row for MWR Wrestler of the Year. Meanwhile Donovan Ruddick had a great push thanks to great performances in 2010 against Dave Vaughn, Mephisto, and the Mississippi Madman. Hard work would pay off for Ruddick as the opportunity that many felt was long overdue, came to pass when he was signed to the WWE developmental contract late this fall. Jeremy Wyatt and Trevor Murdock both garnered several votes thanks to what many voters voiced their respect for each of these men. Last but not least just on the outside of the voting range was Brandon Aarrons who and his former tag team partner Brandon Espinosa .

Mike Sydal toured the country in 2010 wrestling in matches each and every week. Promoters loved him, fans cheered him and the country noticed. His hard work and dedication combined with a true desire to improve earned made him the second wrestler that took part in the WLW/Noah camp that won the PWI Rookie of the Year.

Sydal was just getting started, during Wrestlemania weekend he was in California wrestling with Ring of Honor. He would continue wrestling with Ring of Honor training at their training center before making appearances on Direct TV’S HDNET against Tyler Black, Christopher Daniels and more.

In the fall Sydal returned to much fan fare. At Metro Pro Wrestling, Rock and Roll Mike Sydal was once again on TV with Metro Pro Wrestling against the former WWE Tag Team Champion Trevor Murdock.

At 3XW he was involved in one of the most emotional matches of the year when he was force to face “The Unbreakable” Zach Thompson. Thompson defeated his High Flyers’ partner Mike Sydal following a Dublin Driver in a very emotional and hard fought Loser Leaves 3XWrestling match set up by 3XW Commissioner Todd Countryman in May. Fans rejoiced when Thompson overcame the odds to defeat Brian Ash in November to allow Sydal to once again return.

Throughout the year of 2010 Sydal popped up just about everywhere good wrestling could be found.

Sydal has earned the respect of his peers and promoters and it showed in the 2010 in the final vote. Out of 14 awards committee voters the lowest Sydal got were 16.

We would like to congratulate Mike Sydal as the 2010 MWR Wrestler of the Year.

First Runner up- Mark Sterling
Second Runner up- Donovan Ruddick
Third Runner up- Jeremy Wyatt

2010 MWR Tag team of the Year

Attitude Inc. (Guy Smith, Spencer Powers, and Michael Shard)

New Midwest Tag Team Champions : Attitude Inc – Spencer Powers, Michael Shard and Guy Smith

Attitude Inc is a flashy tag team that has electrified the ring at New Midwest Wrestling for the past year. All three men are former NMW Heavyweight Champions who have come together and found success. Like the Freebirds, Attitude Inc have mixed partners to their advantages. Their success and talent has won over the awards committee.

At the start of the year they dismantled the faction the Sin Club of Steve Bishop, Dave Parker and Dareian Frost in impressive fashion.

In July the they outlasted the tag teams of Logantyre (Eric Logan and Justin McEntyre) , The New Immolare (Tom Arson and Ryan Phoenix) and the Full Metal Jackals( Danny Cannon and Alex Castle) in an exciting four way match to win the NMW Tag Team titles.

In consecutive months of October and November they defeated the up and coming tag team the Full Metal Jackals (Danny Cannon and Alex Castle) to retain the NMW Tag Team Titles.

Though Attitude Inc has their hands full with the tag team of the Uninvited (Rip Mystic and Tom Arson) heading into 2011, the team can hold their head up high that MWR has named them the 2010 MWR Tag Team of the Year.

First Runner up- Gentleman’s Club- Devin Carter and Casanova
Second Runner up- Steve Fender and Mark Sterling
Third Runner up – The Hooligans -Devin and Mason Cutter

2010 MWR Female of the Year

Amy Hennig

Amy Hennig (Photo Credit Bill Smith)

The current World League Wrestling Women’s champion has been dominate in 2010. Hennig has trained at the Harley Race Wrestling Academy and has all the tools to make it to the top of the wrestling world.

Matches with Lucy Mendez, Santana G and Angelus Layne were must see matches in 2010.

You can catch her brother Joe every Monday night on WWE, do not miss the chance to see her in the Midwest while you still can.

First Runner up -MsChif
Second Runner up- Santana G
Third Runner up- Lucy Mendez

2010 MWR Promotion of the Year

3Xwrestling

3XW’s fifth year proved to be the best yet, featuring a mix of incredible wrestling, packed crowds, strong business relationships within the community, and a continuing commitment to charitable efforts.
Despite the common perception that interest in wrestling is on the decline, 3XW enjoyed consistently growing crowds throughout the year, routinely packing the Des Moines Social Club each month for events thanks to a loyal – and growing – following and strong television, radio, print and word-of-mouth advertising, not to mention the most talented roster of wrestlers in the entire Midwest.

This past July, 3XW also had the honor of being the last wrestling promotion to hold matches in historic Veterans Memorial Auditorium, a building with 55 years of wrestling history. The athletes of 3XW competed in the same building that NWA affiliates, particularly Central States, held matches years ago, not to mention some major WWE/WWF/WCW moments.

3XW’s webshow, Outside the Ring, enjoyed an increasing number of views, as did 3XWrestling.com, which was visited by thousands of fans each month.

First Runner up- Independent Hardcore Wrestler
Second Runner up- MMWA-SICW
Third Runner up- Metro Pro Wrestling

2010 MWR Match of the Year

Jeremy Wyatt vs. Tyler Black – 3XW – April 2, 2010

Spring Showdown at 3Xwrestling was a monumental night of pro wrestling featuring one of the top wrestlers in the Midwest proving to the world that he could hang with the Champion of the World.

The two wrestled to a 30-minute time limit draw in an incredible wrestling match that earned a standing ovation from the crowd after the final bell. The last minute of the match saw referee Jeromy Robb inadvertently get crushed in the corner by both men and fall to the canvas. Black quickly nailed Wyatt with a tremendous reverse brainbuster and covered him for the pin, only there was no ref to count the pin. As Black was checking on the ref in the corner, Wyatt slowly rose to his feet and grabbed Black from behind, slamming him hard with his patented Kansas Tumbleweed (Lightning Spiral) and covering him for the pin with 20 seconds remaining, only for the ref to still be out. Wyatt screamed and pleaded for the ref to get up to no avail and he even counted the pin himself. The time then ran out before a winner could be determined but the fans gave a standing ovation.

First Runner up- MECW November 20, 2010 – Bailey Mannix vs. Eric Allen – 30 Minute Ironman Match

Second Runner up- The Mississippi Madman vs. The Future Donovan Ruddick with MR Late Nite at Pro Wrestling Epic August 28th, 2010 Lincoln, Illinois

Third Runner up- Danny Cannon vs Christian Rose ladder match from IWA Productions OCC show in January 2010

For a complete list of nominations sent from fans, promoters and wrestlers around the Midwest click here.

3XW Divide & Conquer Photo recap with Mark Sterling vs Jeremy Wyatt Iron Man from Jan. 07, 2011

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

3XW Divide & Conquer Results – Jan. 07, 2011 – Des Moines, Iowa

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

1. Jimmy Rockwell & Sir Bradley Charles defeated 3XW Pure Wrestling champion Ricky Kwong & The Mauler w/Chad Mylan by DQ.

Afterwards Rockwell challenged Kwong to one more shot at the 3XW Pure Wrestling championship next month and Kwong accepted.

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

2. Genesis – Gage Octane, Benjamin Sailer, Nate Bash, “Torturous” Tony Sly & AJ Smooth defeated “The American Fury” Jon West, Aaron Masterson, “Big City” 3XW Security Guard, The River Monster & Ryan Slade in a 10 man tag team match.

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

3. Brian Ash w/Todd Countryman retained the 3XW Heavyweight championship by pinning Zach Thompson after a press slam into a diamond cutter.

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

4. The Horn Dogs – Maddog McDowell & Krotch won the 3XW Tag Team championship by defeating “Delicious” Devin Carter & Casanova w/Steve Biley.

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

5. Mark Sterling defeated “The Rebel” Jeremy Wyatt in sudden death overtime in a No DQ Iron Man match that ended up going 70 minutes.

Next show

3XWrestling returns this Friday with Holiday Havoc II.

3XWrestling - Holiday Havoc II

Friday – December 3rd, 2010

Des Moines Social Club
1408 Locust St
Des Moines, IA

Doors open 6:45 pm for Advanced ticket holders
Doors open 7 pm for everyone else
Bell time 7:30 pm
*********************************************
Featuring:

3XW Heavyweight championship
Brian Ash vs. Rory Fox (c)

3XW Pure Wrestling championship
“The Rockstar” Jimmy Rockwell vs. “The Laotian Sensation” Ricky Kwong (c) w/Chad Mylan

*By orders of the 3XW Board of Directors, during this match Chad Mylan will be handcuffed to former 3XW President Skylar Pierce!*

Six Man Tag Team Match
“The Unbreakable” Zach Thompson & The Horn Dogs - Maddog McDowell & Krotch
vs.
Ryan Slade & American Ground & Air - Benjamin Sailer & Nate Bash

Rookie’s Biggest Challenge
“The Rebel” Jeremy Wyatt vs. “The American Fury” Jon West

Also in action: 3XW Tag Team champions – “Delicious” Devin Carter & Casanova w/Todd Countryman, Gage Octane, Darin Corbin, Shane Hollister & more!

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Tickets are available at:

Jay’s CD & Hobby - Tickets will be available at both Jay’s stores 3315 SE 14th Street – Des Moines, IA & Merle Hay Mall – Des Moines, IA

also

Cup O’ Kryptonite - Fleur Drive – Des Moines, IA

Or online at http://www.3xwrestling.com/

Advanced General Admission $12.00
General Admission day of event $15.00
Kids 10 & Under $6.00
Kids 3 & Under FREE admission
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3XWrestling will also be collecting new, packaged toys & gifts at the door for Toys for Tots.

This is something we have done every year and are proud to be able to help brighten many children’s Christmas each year.

We will have a collection box at the door as you come in, please bring a new, packaged toy, sporting good, dvd, cd or other gift and help make the holidays a little brighter for Iowa’s children & teenagers.

For more information on Toys for Tots, check out these links:

http://www.toysfortots.org/

3XW champ ready to kick Ash -By Mark Campos

It’s that time of year again folks as we get ready for family gatherings, turkeys roasting in the oven, a time of peace and serenity……..and of course 3XWrestling’s “Holiday Havoc 2”! What better way to celebrate the holidays then with a full course meal of pro wrestling action?

The 3XW Heavyweight title will be on the line as the current champ Rory Fox will take on the “Gentlemen’s Club” own Brian Ash. This feud has been going on for the past couple of months and with the “Club” and their manager, “Commissioner” Todd Countryman, always interfering in the matches Fox may have to devise a new strategy for dealing with the big man.

Rory Fox made an immediate impact the first moment he stepped into the 3XW ring and to no one’s surprise was the 2009 3XW Newcomer of the Year. Many fans already knew Fox from the MTV reality show many moons ago called True Life: I Want to be a Professional Wrestler. The Iowa native has traveled the country mastering his craft for over ten years and is now setting his sights on Brian Ash and the “Gentlemen’s Club”. Fox won the 3XWrestling Heavyweight title in May at the “5 Year Anniversary” event from “The Rebel” Jeremy Wyatt in a sensational ladder match. Since then he has had to fend of the likes of Ryan Slade, Gage Octane and the rest of the “Gentlemen’s Club”. After having Ash and his cohorts continuously attack him from behind Fox is ready to end this once and for all!

Brian Ash is the very first 3XW Heavyweight champion and he carried the title for some time as he has wreaked havoc all over the wrestling world. Trained by the legends Harley Race and Dory Funk Jr., Ash has the tools, size and experience to take the strap from Rory Fox. But even with his natural abilities Brian Ash has once again chosen to take the easy ride to the top. Ash returned to the ring in March of this year after retiring in a “Loser Leaves 3XW” match from 2007 and seemed to be making amends for his past behavior. True colors were shown though as he returned to the ring and turned on his wrestling students Maddog McDowell and “The Unbreakable Zach Thompson. This is nothing new though as Ash along with Octane and Countryman were once known as the “Blue Chippers” before the creation of the dastardly “Gentlemen’s Club” and much like today cheated to win at all costs. Brian Ash wants his title back and Rory Fox will have to depend on speed, agility and maybe some outside interference to keep the big man down to retain his belt.

Other matches have been announced for “Holiday Havoc 2” including a rematch from last months show with the 3XW Pure Wrestling champion “The Laotian Sensation” Ricky Kwong taking on “The Rockstar” Jimmy Rockwell. Last months match was incredible as these former tag team partners gave probably the best match so far in their 3XW careers. A stipulation has been put in place by the 3XW Board of Director as Kwong’s sneaky manager Chad Mylan will be handcuffed to Skylar Pierce during the match! Also a six man tag team match is in place as The Horndogs and Zach Thompson take on American Ground and Air with Ryan Slade. More matches will be announced soon!

In addition to all this pro wrestling excitement 3XW is putting on a “Holiday Havoc 2” preparty on December 1st at Cup O’Kryptonite, located at 4521 Fleur Drive, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. There will be free beer, door prizes, pro wrestlers, comics and did I mention free beer!

Also don’t forget to bring toys down to the show as 3XW is collecting for Toys for Tots!

“Holiday Havoc 2” will be held at the Des Moines Social Club on Friday, December 3rd located at 1408 Locust Street in Des Moines, IA. Tickets can be purchased online at 3XWrestling.com or at Cup O’Kryptonite and both Jay’s CD and Hobby locations. Advance presale tickets cost $12 for adults and $6 for kids 10 and under. Ticket will also be sold the night of the show at $15 for adults, $6 for kids 10 and under and kids 3 and under are free. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. with the bell time being 7:30 p.m. Don’t be a turkey bring a toy for a child in need!

Subscribe to Mark Campos at the Des Moines Examiner click here

MWR Christmas wish list of matches for 2011.

By Brian Kelley

2010 is near a close and the yearly awards are coming up quickly with some very tough decisions to be made from the awards committee over who will honored with the Wrestler, Tag Team, female, and promotion of the year.

So instead of worrying about who I am going to give my vote to I am going to flip the script.

I am going to make my Christmas wish of matches on this Black Friday  that I would like to see in 2011.

Instead of matches that have done before I am going to do my best to name 10 matches that to my knowledge have not happen before.

So without further ado I give you my Christmas wish matches in NO certain order.

1) Bailey Mannix with Lovely Leon

Bailey Mannix with Lovely Leon (Photo Credit Mike Van Hoogstraat )

vs.
Jaysin Strife

Jaysin Strife (Photo Credit Gary Giaffoglione)

- It is no secret that I have mad respect for both of these competitors. These two men going at it would be a true wrestling classic. One could say that Mannix has the power advantage but Strife could be just a little faster. Neither man is afraid to get their hands dirty and brawl with the best of them. A true wrestling classic in every aspect.

2) The Barrio Boys (Angel and Domino Rivera) With Lucy Mendez

The Extreme tag team (Photo Credit Jerry Chavez)

vs.

Attitude Inc. (Spencer Powers and Guy Smith )

Attitude Inc. (Guy Smith and Michael Shard) – Can New Midwest Wrestling handle being EXTREME? Former ECW Original Angel and his partner Domino Rivera is two men that many promotions run and hide from signing them to the fed.

Attitude Inc appears to be all show but the Boyz would soon find out that Guy Smith and Michael Shard can go.

3) Dixieland Destroyer with The Magic Man

The Dixieland Destroyer and the Magic Man (Photo Credit Mike Van Hoogstraat)

vs.

Shane Rich (Photo by Mike Van Hoogstraat)

Shane Rich – The beauty and the Beast is what I would call this AAPW clash. Rich has the good looks and conditioning but would it be enough to overcome the hillbilly power of the Destroyer.

4) Donovan Ruddick

Mephisto feels the power of Donovan Ruddick.

vs.

Abu Colossus

Abu Colossus delivers the pain on Preston Maxwell(Photo Credit Gary Giaffoglione)

– OK I have been begging for this match for a long time now. Don’t believe me click here to read a former article of mine that sets this match up perfectly. With Ruddick on the verge to explode would Colossus put out the spark first.

5) The Hooligans (Devin and Mason Cutter)

The Hooligans

vs.

The Gentleman’s Club (Casanova and Devin Carter) with Todd Countryman.

The Gentleman’s Club (Casanova and Devin Carter)

– The Hooligans have been almost everywhere but they have not been to the 2008 MWR Promotion of the Year 3XWrestling. With the Gentleman’s club running hot shot over everyone would the Hooligans be able to sway the good fortunes over fan favorites? Or would the mastermind Todd Countryman make them his next victim.

6) Lucy Mendez

Lucy Mendez has come on strong in 2010.

vs.

Santana G

Santana has teamed with some top talent in 2010 but she has yet to win the WLW Womens title.

- Two of the most popular women in the Midwest today. Mendez has had all the eyes on her at Metro Pro Wrestling. What if the Midwest Sweetheart was to show up? No women I know wants competition and the real winners in this battle would be us the fans.

7) Jeremy Wyatt

Every young wrestlers nightmare Jeremy Wyatt (Photo Credit Mike Van Hoogstraat)

vs.

Evan Money

Evan Money-

To become the best that you can be you have to work your way to the top. Money the teenage heart throb has had a solid year in 2010. Wyatt is considered by many to be the best in the game today. You say Money has no chance to survive against “The Rebel”. In Money’s defense he has earned some tough wins but this would be a measuring stick for one of the Midwest hottest young stars. My advice Money, if you have a belt stay far away from “The Belt Collector” Jeremy Wyatt.

8) Dan Walsh

Dan Walsh

vs.

Rory Fox

Rory Fox

-MTV vs MTV – Rory Fox gained national fame as one of the featured personalities on MTV’s True Life while Dan the Danimal” Walsh starred in MTV’s Road Rules. Need I say more.

9) Steve Fender and Mark Sterling

Steve Fender and Mark Sterling (Photo Credit Mike Van Hoogstraat)

vs.
BroMance Jordan McEntyre and Knight Wagner with Eryn

- Different styles for sure, Fender and Sterling are no nonsense hit you in the mouth tag team in the style of Arn Anderson and Tully Blanchard while BroMance is….well they are BroMance a team with a lot of flash but can blind you with their double team abilities.

10) Trevor Murdoch

vs

Jonathan Magnus with Stephani King

Jonathan Magnus with Stephani King- No one likes a bully and that is what Magnus is at New Midwest Wrestling. A big man pushing his weight around to keep the NMW title around his waist. I don’t think that Murdoch would be so easy to push around. A match that would be talked about for ages in Springfield Illinois for years to come.

In my personal stocking match-

Crimefighter gets Eric Allens attention

Crimefighter’s chosen wrestler vs. The Pride of Peroia Eric Allen – A perfect match for NMW. It has been over a year ago that we took a look at the contriversal Eric Allen and his supposed win for the “Peorian Pride Championship”, ST louis Wrestling communities Crimefighter called foul quickly. Words and tempers flared between the two in the past but what if the red hot Eric Allen was to show his face in Springfield Illinois at the heart of Crimefighter’s coverage area?

A special attraction match for sure.

Other notable matches

The Cancun Kid vs. Kwong with Chad Mylan
Jason Jones vs. Ryan Phoenix
Preston Maxwell vs. Homicidal Steven Davis
Billy McNiel vs Zach Thompson
Curly vs #1 Brett Young
Jimmy Rockwell vs Brandon Espinosa
Pete Madden vs. Dave Vaughn
Matty Starr vs. Danny Cannon
Tony Cortez vs Brandon Aarons
Dan the Man vs Alexander Rudolph
Bobby Houston vs. Derek Stone
Christian Rose vs. Chris Havius
Bumrush Brothers vs The Beautiful Bodies
Eric Logan vs Tyler Cook
Ron Powers vs. Brian Ash
Donnie Peppercricket vs. Davey Vega
Kory Twist vs. Father Jack Mecidol
Sir Bradley Charles vs. The Big Texan

Beware of rabid dogs at 3XW

By Mark Campos

As the days get colder and nights get shorter out come the ghouls and goblins and that can only mean one thing, 3XWrestling’s “Halloween Horror 4” is almost here! On October 1st at the Des Moines Social Club come see the best the Midwest has to offer for a horrific night of professional wrestling!

Without a doubt one of the most anticipated match ups for “Halloween Horror 4” will be the bout for the tag team gold. The current Tag Team champs, The Gentlemen’s Club, are set to defend their titles against The Horn Dogs. These two long time tag teams will be looking to do some damage at the 3XW arena and no one will want to get in their way!

The 3XWrestling Tag Team champs consist of the handsome Casanova and the red headed wonder boy, “Delicious” Devin Carter. These two have been with 3XW from the beginning and are the first ever tag champs for this promotion. But they have not always been friends and have looked at other from the other side of the ring as they fought over the 3XW Heavyweight title. After some grueling battles against each other Carter decided to do the unthinkable and team back up with Casanova in February of this year thus joining the much hated Gentlemen’s Club. Their second reign as the Tag Team champions came with a win over the High Flyers in March and they have been terrorizing 3XW and the fans ever since.

See the Gentlemen's Club at 3XWrestling's "Halloween Horror 4"

The Tag Team champs are going to need to bring everything they got plus the kitchen sink if they are even thinking about beating the top tag team contenders, The Horn Dogs. This unlikely dynamic duo is made up of the huge and powerful Maddog McDowell and the agile cruiserweight Krotch. The Horn Dogs had first teamed up in 2008 but went their respected ways as McDowell took on all challengers as he held the 3XWrestling Heavyweight title. Renewing their interest in the tag team gold this year The Horn Dogs have reunited in hopes of taking the belts back to the “dog house”. McDowell and Krotch have both stepped up their wrestling game and winning the gold could send them to the next level.

Maddog McDowell in action at 3XWrestling's "Clobberpalooza Classic III"

All eyes will be on the ring for what should be a classic match featuring brute strength, fast paced action and maybe a sleeper hold or two. Also be on the look out for the Gentlemen’s Club manager, the despicable and conniving “Commissioner” Todd Countryman, who will most likely be waiting for the opportunity to use his loaded briefcase. Other championship bouts and grudge matches will be taking place in addition to a frightfully scary over the top rope battle royal! Come join the family friendly action that is pro wrestling with 3XW.

3XWrestlings’“Halloween Horror 4” will be held at the Des Moines Social Club on October 1st located at 1408 Locust Street in Des Moines, IA. Resevse your tickets exclusively at the 3XWrestling website or tickets can be purchased at Cup O’Kryptonite and both Jay’s CD and Hobby locations. Advance presale tickets cost $12 for adults and $6 for kids 10 and under. Ticket will also be sold the night of the show at $15 for adults, $6 for kids 10 and under and kids 3 and under are free. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. with the bell time being 7:30 p.m. Please do not throw chairs!

Check out the video to see Maddog McDowell take on “The Rebel” Jeremy Wyatt from February’s “Reign of Terror

MWR’S Referee Roundtable with legend Dave Hebner

I have been working on this article for the past couple of months. This feature is designed to know more about the one guy who is often forgotten but vital to a matche’s success. That man is the referee. An often heard cliché is that the best ref is one that is not seen. That statement is true but there is no doubt that you will see the ref at one point during the contest and most definitely during the final seconds of the match.

I personally got to see first hand the importance of a referee during a short “ booking” period last fall for an upstart promotion. I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by some of the best talent in the game today so I could have picked names out of a hat and felt good that the card would come off good.

Little did I know how hectic being the booker was (that story is for another day) but two people that many may not notice plays a big part in making the show a success and I am speaking about the ring announcer and the referee. I was lucky to have two men who take great pride in their work on those two shows, Eric Davis and Luke Roberts. Both of these guys could have sit back and let me drowned but they stepped up to the challenge and the show was much better for it. I saw on those occasions as “booker” how important each mans job was and for that I am forever grateful for these two’s talent.

In this roundtable of professional referees around the Midwest I am joined by some of the best today. First we have Martin Thomas, Thomas, I had the pleasure to check out in action many times at CSW in Kansas. Steve Biley from Iowa was one of the founding fathers of 3XW, a company that won the 2008 Promotion of the Year and is always a popular choice from MWR fans to check out. Eric Davis is one of the most recognized referees in St Louis working for just about every promotion in the STL. Brandon Schmitt, Jeromy Robb and Mark Wilson are all students of Harley Race and can be found throughout the Midwest at other promotions as well. Last but not least we have David Switzer who is in his very first year represents my friends from IWA Productions and  David has a desire to become one of the best.

There is no doubt that most referees have a true love for the sport and I always look forward to speaking to each of these fine men who have became good friends of mine to boot about their experience’s inside the squared circle.

Now MWR Fans I hope you enjoy MWR’S Referee Roundtable at the end of this feature we are joined with one of the ALL-TIME GREATS in the sport Dave Hebner. Hebner and his twin brother Earl have been involved in some of the greatest matches and angles in sports history from WWE’S Wrestlemania to today’s TNA. Dave is the only current referee with his own branded T-shirt (White with black stripes with the writing “Yes I did it“)

A true legend in his profession we are honored to have Dave Hebner be a part of this feature.

Brian Kelley
MWR Owner .

1) Lets start out by letting the fans know how long each of you have been a refer and how you got your start in the sport?

Martin Thomas

I’ve been a referee for 10 years now. I hate to admit it but I got started by breaking my ankle and having a midlife crisis. I was recovering from ankle surgery, realized I was out of shape and getting worse, so I started bugging Michael Strider about training for Central States Wrestling. I wanted to be a wrestler, discovered my body thought I was too old for that, so I went into refereeing instead.

Steve Biley

Well, I have been a ref for 4+yrs. I was one of the original owners of 3XWrestling in Des Moines. Just like many pro wrestling fans, I wanted to be part of the action growing up. After starting 3XW with Todd Countryman and Dave Andersen, we all thought that maybe I could ref to help with the budget, since I was free. Brian Ash and others would show me things and give suggestions. The rest is history

Eric Davis

I started in the summer of 2005, and well I went to a show with a friend that had been wrestling for a little while, and they needed a ref so I said that I would do it and I got a crash course in the business and then luckily met up with the right people and got the training and from there to here I’m a zebra through and through

Brandon Schmitt

Refs can find themselves in a bad spot just by trying to do there job as Brandon Schmitt finds out in this three way match between Trent Stone, Trevor Murdoch and the Cancun Kid (Photo Credit Bill Smith

I had my first show on September 21, 2007 in Eldon, mo. I’d been friends with the first graduate of Harley Race’s Wrestling Academy, Matt Murphy for a number of years when i approached him about doing a fundraiser for my old high school in oct.’06. I helped set one up in ’06, and one in March of ’07. I was invited by Harley to a couple of shows that summer to just sit back and observe the refereeing side of the matches. I started training at Harley’s school a few weeks later. A couple of shows ago, in Council Bluffs, IA, I officiated my 500th match.

Mark Wilson

Lets start out with letting the fans know how long each of you have been a referee and how you got your start in the sport? I began attending the Harley Race Wrestling Academy in January 2009. I refereed my first match in Bolivar, MO on March 28, 2009, which was a WLW Ladies Title match between Amy Hennig and Stacey O’Brien. After the match, Mr. Race told me I had done a good job. That meant more to me than I can express. After a show in Slater, MO, both Mr. Race and his wife, BJ, told me that I had done an excellent job. That vote of confidence from them made me extremely happy. As of this writing (June, 2010), I’ve had 28 shows since January 2, 2010, which averages to a little more than one show a week, none of which would have been possible without Harley and BJ Race.

Jeromy Robb

 I completed my ref training in 2007 at the Harley Race Wrestling Academy.

David Switzer

 I’ve been a ref for about a year now. I got started almost as a fluke. A couple friends of mine, Alex Castle and Christian Rose (Project Mayhem) told me one night that the regular ref at IWA-Productions in Olney, IL had advanced far enough in his training that they were going to let him start wrestling. This left them without a regular ref. They asked if I wanted to give it a try. The following Wednesday, I showed up early for a crash course in reffing, they gave me one squash match to work, they liked me, and I’ve been their main ref ever since.

2) What promotions have you worked for?

Martin Thomas

Martin Thomas gives former WLW Women’s Champion Stacey O’Brien the rules prior to her match with Amy Hennig (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

CSW, NWA Dynamo, Metro Pro Sports Wrestling, WLW, PWP, TNA, and probably a few I’ve forgotten, no offense intended.

Steve Biley

3XW, NWA-No Limits, NWA-Central States, PWP. Worked a joint 3XW/IPW show. Worked for a couple others not really worth mentioning.

Eric Davis

The ones that I work regularly are IHW, LWA, PWE, and HVW. I’ve also worked ICAW, RPW, RCW, IWAI, CJTPAAW, HCW, FTW, and a few others I can’t remember.

Brandon Schmitt

Harley Race’s World League Wrestling of course. NWA Brew City Wrestling, AWA in Milwaukee also. Central Empire Wrestling, Pro Wrestling Phoenix, Metro Pro Wrestling. I know I’m probably leaving out some–I apologize. (Going to have to dig out my notebooks!)

Mark Wilson

WLW, of course, Maximum Wrestling Alliance in Spavinaw, OK, Compound Pro Wrestling in Tulsa, OK, Mid South Wrestling Alliance in Midwest City, OK, and Arkansas Pro Wrestling in Siloam Springs, AR.

Jeromy Robb

Ricky Kwong is warned for excessive choking in the ropes on Evan Money at MECW from Jeromy Robb (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

World League Wrestling (Camera Man), 3XWrestling (Ref, Camera Man),Metro East Championship Wrestling (Ref), Metro Pro Wrestling (Ref)

David Switzer

My primary promotion is IWA-Productions in Olney, IL. We do weekly shows on Wednesdays, and a Saturday show about every six weeks. I also have reffed an NWA show in Streator, IL. And I’ve done some shows for ICAW in Anna, IL. I will work at my first New Midwest show in Springfield, IL on July 10. EDITORS NOTE: Switzer has since worked for NMW and PWE since he turned in his answers) I’m still new enough that I am not at all well known, but promoters are starting to find out about me.

3) What is the key for a ref to be successful?

Martin Thomas

Stay out of the way and don’t be seen until you’re needed.

Steve Biley

Steve Biley makes sure that Gage Octane is not choking Zach Thompson

Talking to the wrestlers before hand and knowing what they have planned, and keeping alert during the match. Remembering that most of the times you are the complete wimp, but yet still have to maintain order.

Eric Davis

Personally I think its communication with the workers and making sure you know your role in the match to help the workers get their gimmicks over, the standard Indy ref that just stands there and then slowly gets up after slowly dropping down for the count. And above always do your job if it isn’t the finish and the worker’s not listening to the count or doesn’t kick then damn it.

Brandon Schmitt

First and foremost, when you start your training is to SHUT YOUR MOUTH. Watch and listen, because chances are, the ones training you have years of experience in this business, AND YOU DON’T! I hate to sound mean about it, but there isn’t a text book to teach you how to ref, so a lot of what you learn is going to be by making mistakes and learning from them. So when a veteran of the ring is telling you something—-LISTEN TO HIM! No matter whether he’s pulling you to the side or screaming at you to correct you—LISTEN. A referee can make or break a match, and he’s doing his damndest to make sure you can be trusted in some pretty big situations.
I don’t know if I can put this next part into words or not, but here goes nothing:
I can’t imagine NOT doing this for as long as I can. There truly is no better place than inside the ring–in the zone with the boys– lungs burning, flying around the ring during a 30 min tag match– not hearing a word spoken between anyone– everything clicking– a chaos that can’t be explained. Crowd popping’ the whole damn match. Then, still hearing the crowd after everyone has come back through the curtain—-DAMN! Those moments are what I heard the late, great Dr. Death Steve Williams once describe to me as “Cornbread! Ain’t nothing better than that!” I thank God for this business and those moments!

Mark Wilson

The refs are so close to the action that often even they can’t believe the impact that comes from the moves that they take, just like this one that Santana G will sure to feel the next morning from Amy Hennig at WLW in Park Hills Mo. (Photo Credit Mike Van Hoogstraat )

Actually, I think there are several things that separate the best referees from all the rest. Primarily, keeping oneself in good physical shape is a must. Enduring the warm-up at Mr. Race’s wrestling school is a true test of what kind of physical shape you are in. If you referee every match on a six match show, being in top physical shape will keep you as able to do your job in the main event as much as in the first match. Secondly, study, study, and study. I watch as many WWE, TNA and YouTube videos every week as I have time for to pick up different things from good referees and to ignore from the average or worse refs. Before the matches, listening to the wrestlers and what moves or holds they might try to use during the match will give you an idea of where you need to be in the ring to stay out of the way.

Jeromy Robb

Listen, Position, Training and Heart.

David Switzer

To me, the keys are pretty simple. Pay attention. Use your ears when you have your back turned to the action, so you don’t turn around at the wrong time. Crowd reaction is key to timing when you can’t see what is going on and you don’t have a wrestler in front of you to be your eyes. Know the tendencies of your wrestlers. Anticipate where they will end up after certain moves, so if they go for a cover, you are already in a good place to drop down and count. Always know your finishes before you go out, at least when possible. I usually ref a whole show, often with no intermission, so I have to know everything before I step into the ring for the first match. Remain actively involved in the match, but without trying to draw attention to yourself. Nobody is there to see the ref, unless your mother is in the crowd, but if the ref screws up, the whole match is down the toilet. And stay out of the way. If they start running and flying around the ring, anticipate where they are going, and don’t be there. Also, I was told early on that I have one thing going in my favor, and that is that I have absolutely no ambition to ever wrestle. I guess a lot of refs are wrestling trainees who really don’t have their heart into reffing. They are doing it to pay their dues.

4) On the flip side what is some of the most common mistakes that a ref makes in a match?

Martin Thomas

Thomas went from trying to maintain order between two of the most beautiful women to trying to maintain order with two powerhouses in Dinn T Moore and Michael Strider (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

Too many refs want to be involved in the match. Not necessarily doing moves but they are too close to the wrestlers, they take attention from the wrestlers by breaking them apart too early or do something to draw attention to the ref. Either that or the ref looks bored and stiff during the match, that drives me crazy.

Steve Biley
Not maintaining order when you are supposed to and not following “the rules” I have seen guys that where reffing and just stand there with there thumb up there a## and make the match look stupid.

Eric Davis
Most common mistakes are not doing their job, like I said before if they are out of the ring and not listen to the count or aren’t releasing a hold before the five count, do not cover for them repeatedly you have to show authority and if its a reason for dq then do it and always count if both shoulders are down, in submission moves either workers shoulders can be on the mat and that is a pinfall, but most Indy refs don’t remember to look for it

Brandon Schmitt
Not taking charge in there. For example— don’t stop your count if a wrestler isn’t breaking a choke-hold. Get in his face and let him know that there are rules to the contest. And if he abuses it again and doesn’t break the hold before you get to 5– DQ him! Let HIM do the explaining when he gets back to the locker room. Another thing referees need to do is– be loud on every count, whether it’s a 1,2,3– a 5 count, or a 10 count. On my very first day of training, Harley told me that no matter if it was a show with 50 fans or 50,000—he wanted the person in the last row of the upper deck to hear the referee slap the mat, and KNOW if it was a 1 or a 2 or a 3 count. Those things there are my little pet peeves when watching other referees through the curtain. In general though, be the ref that the boys can depend on.

Mark Wilson
Staying out of the way, paying attention to everything going on in the ring, moving around constantly to be in the best possible position. If you want, you can be just a fat, dumpy ref with his shirt untucked and who stands in the corner and waits until it’s time to make a count, or you can get yourself into shape, study good referees, be aggressive and let the crowd know that you are the official in the match and that you are going to do your best to make certain you call it as fairly as possible.

Jeromy Robb
Not Listening to the Veterans

David Switzer
Being out of position when a wrestler covers his opponent. It shouldn’t take more than a second or so for the ref to be down and counting. And again, listen for crowd reaction, or for the sound of a wrestler dropping to the mat before you turn around if there is cheating behind your back. Otherwise, you turn around too soon; you see the foreign object in use, and blow the whole match for everyone. I know because I’ve made that mistake. Nothing makes you look bad like seeing something you shouldn’t have and pretending that you didn’t. The fans are smart enough, they don’t buy that.

5) Who in your mind is some of the top refs in the sport today?

Martin Thomas

I have to apologize again, I’ve been retired for 2 years, so I haven’t focused much on wrestling and I don’t watch it on tv.

Steve Biley
Me….absolutely a joke!!! Ya know, I am not always up on names, but I have seen a few of the east coast guys and they are great,

Eric Davis
Bryce Remsburg of Chikara,Shimmer and CZW among others, I think he is a great ref he can fit any match style and help you get your gimmick over, Rudy Charles is a pretty good one, and I like Slick Johnson to he sets himself apart in which ever way he can.

Brandon Schmitt
Mike Chioda and John Cone. Those two are at the top of their game each and every night. And that’s why they are where they are–WWE. I’ve been fortunate to have worked a few shows that John has attended, and each time he’s been more than willing to critique my matches and answer any questions that I’ve had. For that I am forever grateful!

Mark Wilson
I learn constantly by watching John Cone, Charles Robinson, Mike Chioda in WWE and Slick Johnson and Brian Hebner in TNA. Mr. Cone has given me feedback at the WLW shows he’s attended, and that has helped me out tremendously. I’d say the best referee in the business at this time is Mike Chioda, but my favorite of the current crop of referees is Slick Johnson. He obviously keeps himself in shape, looks like he can take care of himself in the ring if a wrestler tries to intimidate him and makes is calls clear and loudly for the wrestlers and the audience to understand. The greatest referee of all time was probably Tommy Young. I’ve watched as many of his matches from the NWA that I could get a hold of. Carl Fergie was another referee in Mid-South/UWF from that era who was a good referee.

Jeromy Robb
John Cone, Charles Robinson

David Switzer

Switzer keeps an eye out for the action as Zebra Cakes uses legal double teams (Photo Credit

I really enjoy watching John Cone in the WWE. Todd Sinclair in ROH is another favorite. Locally, Robbie McCann is outstanding.

6) What has been your favorite match that have been the official for and why?

Martin Thomas

I’ve got a couple of favorites, (Matt) Sydal/Delirious/Payday Patterson from a few years ago in CSW. Three of my favorite guys to watch and work with. Another match is my favorite just because it’s funny, in a tiny little town, my pants ripped from the crotch to the knee. Embarrassing but funny at the same time. Everyone in the ring had a hard time finishing the match because we were laughing so hard and I had to borrow someone’s sweatpants to finish the show.

Steve Biley

I am not sure I can give a favorite. I have reffed a lot of REALLY fun matches that when I was done, I was like wow!!!! Brian Ash, Gage Octane, NSE, Mark Sterling, Jimmy Rockwell are just some of the guys that I have worked matches with and said WOW when I was done. Sterling vs. Octane was INCREDIBLE to work.
One that I distinctly remember is working with Keith Walker when he held the NWA World Tag title. That big SOB was one guy that legitimately scared the SH#T out of me in the ring.

Eric Davis
Wow that’s a pretty hard one a lot of them have been a lot of fun but I would say Dash Rando vs. Billy McNeil, it was at the first LWA pro wrestling heroes family show in house springs mo and in the match both Dash and Billy went under the ring and I followed and I came back out with bee outfit on over my ref shirt and did the rest of the match like that, the crowd wanted more of the bee costume lol.

Brandon Schmitt
Tough question! There have been some real fun ones, but so far, nothing compares to Go Shiozaki vs. Darin Waid at the Night of Legends II in Waterloo, IA back in the summer of ’08. In front of legends like Harley Race, Bret Hart, Roddy Piper, Baron Von Raschke, among many, many other greats, those two beat the hell out of each other, at 200mph for the entire time limit draw. A beautiful, yet exhausting match that had had the crowd showing their appreciation with a standing ovation after the final bell. That’s when Waid begged myself and the crowd for “5 more minutes.” Once the crowd started chanting, and Shiozaki agreed to the o.t. period, we started an extra 5 min. A couple of minutes into the o.t., Shiozaki caught Waid off the top rope and hit the GO FLASH for the win. And once again, the 2 of them were given a standing-o from the crowd and the legends attending. We had high-flying, brawling (in and out of the ring), and scientific wrestling that told a story, all in one match. Darin and Go had the crowd in the palm of their hands that night, and I’ll always be honored to be a part of that match.

Mark Wilson
I would say that my favorite match to referee so far was the main event of the WLW 10th Anniversary Show in which Brian Breaker defeated Superstar Steve for the WLW title. It was such an honor to be involved in a match of that caliber and to have been in front of some of the greatest legends in the business that night: Harley Race, Bret Hart, Terry Funk, Bob Geigel, Bill Kersten, and the numerous other luminaries present. Members of my family were in the audience, too, and my oldest sister snapped a picture of me handing the belt to the new champion.

Jeromy Robb
Jeremy Wyatt vs. Tyler Black: The Passion these two Wrestlers have is just Amazing.

David Switzer

Dave Switzer counts the pin for a huge match this year as Brandon Aarons went for the win against Ring of Honor World Champion Tyler Black at Pro Wrestling Epic. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

With only about 200 matches’ reffed, I don’t have a large list to pick from. But I really enjoyed a match I did in Vandalia, IL between Matt Cage and Eugene. Cage is a friend of mine and always a pleasure to work with. Eugene was a real pro and great to work with. I had a lot of fun in the match. Eugene involved me in a lot of his comedy routine, which drew from my acting experience. I also took the hardest bump I have ever taken in that match.

7) Now for the fun what was your least favorite match?

Martin Thomas

A hardcore match for a small promotion, it was horrible. I actually asked the manager of one of the wrestlers to hit me so I could get out of the ring for a bit…which he did, thankfully

Steve Biley
Remember the comment about places not worth mentioning….

Eric Davis
honestly almost every match I worked in FTW a lot of bad memories from when I worked there, but I did make some good friends that and wish I could see again.

Brandon Schmitt
That one night when I attended a show where I wasn’t working. If I’d have known ahead of time that it would be SO hard to just sit in the crowd and watch and NOT be in the ring, I wouldn’t have gone. Pure hell, period.

Mark Wilson?
I recently had a match that was presented to all of us as a traditional 3 way match, but it was announced as elimination 3 way match. I asked the wrestlers which it was, and they seemed as confused as I was. Nonetheless, we ended up with one wrestler being “counted out” by me and he was eliminated, leaving the final two wrestlers in the ring to wrestle to a pinfall finish. I guess we made chicken salad out of chicken manure in that one.

Jeromy Robb
Hahahahaha. I’m good :)

David Switzer
A four match gauntlet where DA Morrison had to do 3 singles matches, then a 1-on-2 handicap match, defending his IWAP Club Championship. It was a weird night where we only had about 4 wrestlers at the show. DA did all he could, given the circumstances, but there was no break for him or me between matches and the whole thing was just unnecessary and a bad experience.

8) What Superstars have you been in the ring with?

Martin Thomas

I’ve been very lucky and worked with some of the best indy talent around, bigger name talent working with Harley, and been the sole referee for a TNA house show.

Steve Biley
Jerry Lynn, Tracy Brooks, Malia Hosaka, Keith Walker, Tyler Black, Zac Gowen, Awesome Kong. I know I am missing some

Eric Davis

Eric Davis has refed some of the biggest matches in St Louis over the past few years, here he is the man in order between WWE Hall of Famer Bob Orton and “Bloody” Harker” Dirge at Independent Hardcore Wrestling in Dupo Illinois)

Supersters? Well bigger name Indy people would be Mike Quakenbush, Davey Richards, Claudio Castagnoli, Arik Cannon, Tyler Black, Ian Rotten, Mickie Knuckles, MsChif, Dazie Haze, Delirious, Alex Shelley, and a couple more.

Brandon Schmitt

Brandon Schmitt clowns around with former WWE Star Eugene after a battle royal in Eldon Missouri (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

These men and women are all superstars in my book, but some more well-known names are—- 3 time World Tag Team Champions Lance Cade and Trevor Murdoch, Roddy Piper, Chris Masters, Rosie, Eugene, NWA World Champion Adam Pearce, Tony Atlas, Joe (Mike McGillicuty) Hennig, Marty Jannetty. That’s just a few off the top of my head.

Mark Wilson
Ritchie Steamboat was in a three way match for the WLW in Waterloo, IA at the Dan Gable Hall of Fame show in July, 2009 in which I was the official. I reffed two matches in Oklahoma that included Jesse White, son of Big Van Vader. Former ECW star Angel Medina was in a tag team match I reffed in Arkansas. Trevor Murdoch has been probably the biggest star I’ve officiated for.

Jeromy Robb
Several

David Switzer
If, by Superstars, you mean nationally known guys who have been on TV, there aren’t many. Honky Tonk Man, Eugene, Jay Bradley (Ryan Braddock in WWE). The Sheik is well traveled, as is Mike Sydal. That’s about it.

9) Lets us know what is your biggest pet peeve that a wrestler will do during match and what can a wrestler do to make your job easier?

Martin Thomas

Two pet peeves: Wrestlers that don’t want to listen to me in the ring and wrestlers that are only concerned with themselves.

Steve Biley

Honestly, communicate before hand what you want and how you want it. There are so many styles out there that not calling something because most don’t want it, but you do, let us know.

Eric Davis
Biggest pet peeve? hmm thinking that they are a superstar and can get to the venue last minute before the match and expect a 5 star match, promotions have call times for a reason get there when your supposed too, and communication is key and the workers that communicate with refs before and during the matches it helps out tremendously and just listen and respect the ref he is the authority figure in the match make him a joke and no one will think he’s credible when needed to be authoritive.

Brandon Schmitt
I can’t really think off anything right off the bat. I used to hate it when a wrestler would be a dick in the locker room to the referees, but now, I’ve learned that if you want respect, you got to earn it. Have me work one of your matches and you’ll respect me afterwards. I work hard and take the shows seriously. If you’re still wanting to be an asshole to me afterwards—-you’re probably an asshole whether you’re in the locker room or at the store buying groceries.

Mark Wilson
It is more prevalent in Oklahoma and Arkansas for a wrestler or tag team to come to the ring with a “posse.” Excellence Personified, a faction that includes some of the best wrestlers in those two states, constantly are distracting me during their matches. Dustin Heritage, Jack Legacy and Michael Barry are probably the best wrestlers in that part of the country, but they, along with their manager Mike Iles, are invariable grabbing the bottom ring rope, jumping up on the apron or they are pulling some other general chicanery. Though I didn’t catch anything illegal in the match, I’m almost certain that their antics cost Brian Breaker the MWA Heavyweight title against champion, Jack Legacy.

Jeromy Robb
Listen, and Listen (not to just me)

David Switzer
My biggest pet peeve is easy. Chewing gum and spitting it out on the mat during the match. Happens at least once almost every show. I get tired of picking it up. Drives me nuts. Another one is when they take too long to cheat while my back is turned. I hate when I have to turn my back, and they take forever to cheat. Especially when they use the old “remove the turnbuckle pad and cheat while the ref is putting it back on” routine. I once had to turn my back and pretend to tie the turnbuckle pad on for almost a full minute because the guys were too slow behind me. Makes me look incompetent, because in the fans’ eyes, I should be watching the action. That’s what they can do to make my job easier. Cheat fast. And if you use a foreign object, hide it before I turn around. Many times, I miss the cheap shot, but when I turn around. They still have the chain wrapped around their fist and make no attempt to hide it. I just have to play dumb, and that also makes me look bad to the fans.

10) Who is your favorite wrestler to officiate for and if there was any Superstar that you have not been a referee for who would you want that to be?

Martin Thomas

I can’t say that I have a favorite wrestler to officiate for, I’ve enjoyed working with 90% of the wrestlers I’ve been in the ring with and I’d consider that to be a good record. If there was any way I could pull it off, I would love to work with Vader. He’s one of my all time favorite wrestlers.

Steve Biley
Hard question! All the guys I have worked with, Mark Sterling. He has stomped mudholes in me, but the guy is INTENSE!
Ya know, Superstars are fun, but really not a lot different than the great guys I already work with.

Eric Davis

The referes job does not end after the match at times. Here ref Eric Davis (Far left) is joined with Kiwi to assist the destruction caused by the Dixieland Destroyer at High Voltage Wrestling.(Photo Credit Mike Van Hoogstraat )

I have a couple actually that I really like working with Dingo was one, Brandon Arrons, Mike Sydal, Sean Vincent, any incarnation of Billy McNeal is good. I would like to work more of the top Indy guys the ones you can learn a lot from like Mike Quakenbush he’s a great guy to have in the locker room I always enjoy when he’s around.

Brandon Schmitt
My favorite so far would have to be Trevor Murdoch. He can be a handful once he steps through those ropes, but he’s so damn old school that you can’t help but like the guy. A true brawler, yet not afraid to take it to the top rope if it means the difference between a win and a loss. When Murdoch speaks, you better listen up, because that guy loves this business and if you aren’t giving 110%, he’s going to let you know how he feels about it. Still a damn handful though!

Mark Wilson

Brian Breaker. I’ve officiated most of Breaker’s WLW matches in the last year and a half, and, though he constantly pushes the limits of the rules, he almost always finds a way to win. If he isn’t a two time WLW champion soon, I will be very surprised.

Jeromy Robb

Tyler Cook gets the bad news from Jeromy Robb that he was unable to pin Jeremy Wyatt in a very close call at 3XW in their rematch this year. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

Mark McDowell. I would like to Ref a match with Mr. Anderson …. Anderson

David Switzer

I have a lot of personal friends who I also ref, guys I knew before I was a ref, and I would like to list them here. But my honest answer would have to be Brandon Walker. I haven’t reffed him for a while, but have done several of his matches in the past. Just a real pro in the ring. A veteran who has the respect of every guy in the locker room. He just makes the sport look good, and would be my favorite guy to ref. As far as a current Superstar I have never reffed, again assuming Superstar means a big name TV wrestler, I would go with Velvet Sky from TNA. More seriously, I would probably say Chris Jericho. I don’t think he is capable of putting on a bad match, and I would love the opportunity to ref him once. More realistically, on a Midwest Indy level, I would like to ref Jimmy Jacobs.

11) What advice would you give someone if they would like to become a ref?

Martin Thomas

There’s too many people who think reffing is just a shirt and count to 3, there’s a whole lot more to it and it shows when you’re the idiot that just puts the shirt on and gets in the ring. A bad ref can ruin a 5 star match.

Steve Biley

A refs job is never easy with a mastermind like Todd Countryman at ringside.

Get trained, don’t think you are EVER smarter than the wrestler who paid a lot of money to learn to do what they do, and just do it.

Eric Davis
Listen to what the vets tell you get to shows early and try to learn everything you can watch people work in the ring work with them, after matches talk to the workers ask if their was anything you could have done or if you where in the way, and always be respectful and be ready for plenty of practical jokes when you are first starting out.

Brandon Schmitt

CARDIO! Better get your lungs ready and your legs ready for some abuse. Let’s just start there.

Mark Wilson

Take control of the match is the definition of a good ref, even the 2009 mwr Wrestler of the YeaR Mark Sterling needs to obey the rules of the countout. Mark Wilson is not passive in his warning of the ten count. (Photo Credit Mike Van Hoogstraat )

Study any of the referees on the current WWE and TNA rosters, and look for older matches with Tommy Young, Earl Hebner, Joey Marella, Pee Wee Anderson, Nick Patrick and Gary DeRusha. Attend the best school in the country, the Harley Race Wrestling Academy. It’s worth the investment. Mr. Race’s name will open all kinds of doors for you. Keep your cardio work up and take as many bookings as you can get. Working with a vast array of wrestlers and many different crowds will prepare you for almost anything that could happen in the ring. And, perhaps the biggest thing, realize that you are there to help the wrestlers shine, not vice versa. If you do your job, you won’t get very much credit, but you will have accomplished that goal. People in the business recognize a good referee, and certainly know the bad ones.

Jeromy Robb
Make sure you want this lifestyle and get Great Training I’m Trained at one of the premier training academies in all of North America Harley Race Wrestling Academy and LISTEN

David Switzer

Watch wrestling. Watch a lot of wrestling. Study the refs on TV. Just like the wrestlers on TV, the refs on TV are also the best at what we do. See how they react in certain situations. See how they position themselves. Even though I’m new to the business, as far as in-ring goes, I’ve been watching wrestling religiously since 1981. Most of the guys I ref weren’t even born then. But I understand what is going on in the ring. Work as hard at your part of the match as the wrestlers do at theirs. Get in shape so you have the cardio to get through a whole show. It’s pretty common for an Indy show to only have one ref, and they aren’t going to stop the show because you are tired. And little things like knowing the rules of various matches. I worked a show a while back that had a last man standing match. I didn’t ref it, but the guy who did have no idea what the rules of the match were. As a result, the match went way longer than it should have. He didn’t know when to count and when to stop counting. Really looked bad.

12) Last but not least how can a promoter contact you to be a referee for them?

Martin Thomas

At the age of 43, I’m finally on facebook…and a lot of people are laughing at me right now.

Steve Biley

Well, if they need an old fat guy that does a pretty good job they can just email me @ stevebiley@gmail.com

Eric Davis
Preferably n facebook http://www.facebook.com/Eicdavisref or email at Trow86@hotmail.com after we talk then I give out my number.

Brandon Schmitt
My email is brndnschmitt@yahoo.com. I surprisingly have been found by promoters on facebook, so I do check it a little more frequently now. I love getting as much time in the ring as possible–so get in contact with me—I’M YOUR MAN.

Mark Wilson
My cell number is 417-389-2090. I have a Facebook page under my name, Mark Wilson. I always look forward to every show, whether in a familiar territory or a new one.

Jeromy Robb
I can be reached several ways Facebook (Jeromy Robb), EMail(jeromy2002@yahoo.com), Phone 515-208-3659

David Switzer

My name is David Switzer. I can be found on facebook under my name, or emailed directly at switzr1@gmail.com

http://www.myspace.com/twinrefs

1) Lets start out with letting the fans know how long each of you have been a refer and how you got your start in the sport? I started out in the Richmond Virginia area I have been in the sport for 27 years now. My twin brother Earl and I watched a lot of tapes and matches to try to improve what we could do.

Dave and Earl Hebner . Can you tell who is who ?

2) Who in your mind is some of the top refs in the sport of all time? I would say Tommy Young. I think that Tommy was one of the top men to ever ref. I will always say that the Hebner’s was the best of all time but you can not take anything away from Tommy. Tommy was real good ref.

3) What has been your favorite match that has been the official for and why? I referred Steamboat vs Savage at WrestleMania III and I always thought that was one of the biggest matches in the world and several Hulk Hogan match’s, Harley Race and Ric Flair, we always were the ref for all the big stars.

4) What is something that a ref does that would surprise the common fan? If a guy gets hurt the ref will be important to lead the match where it needs to go.

Dave Hebner (Photo Credit Mike Van Hoogstraat)

5) On the flip side what is some of the most common mistakes that a ref makes in a match? Sometimes they are in the wrong place and at times they are so excited that they will go down and miss the count or be ten miles from the guys shoulder and not even be close and start counting 1-2 . Instead of being hand to hand they will be feet to feet and there feet would be in the way.

6) Lets us know what is your biggest pet peeve that a wrestler will do during match 6d what can a wrestler do to make your job easier?

7) What advice would you give someone if they would like to become a ref? You can do it, though it is very HARD, you have to be in the right place at the right time. When you go over the finish make sure you get it down and get it down right make it look good. I have seen wrestlers go to “hit” a ref and he miss him by ten feet and the ref still takes the bump down, that’s not good, the fans are not dumb.

8) What match recently stands out to you as one that is for the memories and is it still fun for you? It’s still fun to get up there every now and then, right now my legs are all broken up and I can not do what I use to. I still can do a match here or there and do it well. The people enjoy it and love it. You have to be into it, sure and its glory but you still have to keep your mind into the match.

9) Any other thoughts of your time as a ref.?Feuding with my brother was always special, the fans enjoyed it. It was interesting, I remember one night in Richmond with Hermie Sadler’s promotion where Earl took on his son Brian in a loser loses their hair. Brian won and Earl lost his hair and the fans ate it up.

Harley Race, Nick Ridenour, Dave Hebner and Ted Dibiase

10) Any last thoughts for the fans at MWR? I would like to the fans to know that Midwest’s own Nick Ridenour is the greatest referee of all time. He has been trained by the Hebner’s and for that he can be nothing but the best.

Thank you Dave for taking the time to be there with us.Thank you and have a good day