The Positives and Negatives of My Weekend of (British) Wrestling at Pro EVW and Kamikaze Pro

Part Two - Sunday 26^th October – Kamikaze Pro – Birmingham

My second show of the weekend was at Kamikaze Pro in Birmingham. The original plan was to go to this so that my girlfriend could see Tyler Bate – her favourite wrestler (more on this later). On closer inspection, I noticed that, in the main event, there would be a huge star of my childhood fandom – Bob 'Hardcore' Holly. Bonus. I'm not usually attracted to shows based on the import (as I've stated in a few articles in the past) but this was a nice addition to getting to a show for the missus' needs (I'm a good boyfriend, eh?).

On arrival, I was pleased that the blonde lady (anybody know her name?) on the door was aware of the blog. It's always nice to know that people know it, read it and enjoy it. Later in the interval, it was nice to know that Tyler Bate also enjoyed what I write here – pointing out the Mad Man Manson interview as a good one. It's nice when fans say that they enjoy the blog and it's probably even more pleasing when the guys on the show say that they do, too.

I haven't been up to a Kamikaze show for a while now and, as always with good shows, I regret this and need to do something about it! Clearly things have improved – as they should do with a growing promotion – with a good sized audience; maybe over 200? Not only was it a big crowd, but they were a loud and 'up for it' crowd; plenty of regulars it would seem.

Positive: An Audience With Eddie Dennis

I got to talk with Eddie not too long ago at a show and he was very pleased with the things that I write about him. This positive will be no different. Eddie came to the ring as a heel, as I expected him to (he had been at the last Kamikaze show that I attended). T-Bone then came out with a scowl on his face, this was typical of him but I assumed that he would be the babyface for this match. Then he started shouting at kids at ringside and emptying packets of crisps over others (tough guy).

I started to think that we were going to have a heel vs heel match, which would've been a strange start (or any part of a show). Within minutes things became clearer; Eddie became a favourite of the Birmingham locals due to his comedy ramblings towards T-Bone. This was also helped due to the audience being a somewhat 'smart' crowd. In wrestling, when a show gets to a certain level of popularity, there's going to be a large number of smart fans and in some ways that helps situations such as this match. Either that or Eddie is getting popular with the Kamikaze audiences and will soon be turning full babyface. EITHER THAT or Eddie can continue doing what he's doing and still be popular regardless?!

Eddie Dennis

Positive: The Match The Missus Had Been Waiting For...

The second match saw The Hunter Brothers taking on Tag Team Champions Dan Moloney and TYLER BATE. I type Tyler's name in capitals there because I'll probably be in trouble if I don't (she's quite defensive of Tyler... it's almost worrying). As I tried to enjoy this match, I had a camera phone resting on my shoulder, with several (hundred?) shots being taken whenever Tyler was in view. When I would attempt to clap something that The Hunters would do, I was immediately stopped and given 'the look'. In the House Of Tyler, clapping for others is extremely frowned upon!

It was quite pleasing that after only two matches, the missus was satisfied with the evening's wrestling and nothing was likely to top that for her... until the interval...

For me, I loved the story of this match. I've read a few things somewhere that there is tension amongst the team of Bate and Moloney. This showed and, along with a decent match, was really pleasing to see. I take it that Tyler wants to do things more 'by the book' whereas Moloney wants to get the job done whatever way he needs to. What's even more impressive is that when they eventually do split and feud, it will be a very looked forward to match – between a 17-year-old and an 18-year-old (please correct the ages if I'm wrong on that?!). How impressive is that that we have two guys that aren't even twenty in a believable, almost 'must see' match?

Negative (Positive really?!): Lee Hunter Thinks He's James Mason

I saw you, Lee. I heard you even clearer.

Lee summoned the power of James 'thirty year veteran' Mason in his “DO YOU WANT SOME MORE?” question to the audience. On receiving the answer he required, Lee then started up a 'WE WANT MORE!!” chant. Sickening!

In all seriousness, though, what a simple and massively effective way of getting the audience into it this is... fair play Lee Hunter, but I'll be watching you from now on to see if you steal any more family-friendly-show, pandering chants!

Positive/Negative: Fighting Females/Weird Match Placement

I'm not going to get into my views on ladies wrestling as I (kind of) addressed it in my post yesterday. The positive to this is the name of the division. There are probably a thousand names that a women's division can be given but I really like the name 'Fighting Females'. It's a really catchy name and if it actually has some scrappy, fighty girls in it then job done.

The negative for me was the match placement. Before the show I tried to figure out what match might go where and I was surprised to see the ladies match on as the first half main event. For me I'd have had the Money in the Bank Ladder match at that point. I think that the ladies match should probably be either second on the card or just before the main event. This is what I've seen in the past and as far as appeal, that's the position that would best suit it.

Positive: The Best Interval Ever?

Before going to the show, a good friend of mine said that I should take my Bob Holly book to the show to be signed. I hadn't even given it a thought as just meeting him would be pretty cool.

During said interval, we made our way over to the merchandise table as Bob was there signing items and taking photos. I waited my turn and then finally got to shake the man's hand that had been a big part of my childhood. Don't get me wrong, Bob wasn't the main star of the Attitude Era but he was a huge character in what that era was all about. Out of all the imports that come over to our shores, he's the biggest attraction that's been here in my eyes and my fandom. I was pleased to let Bob know that I really enjoyed his book; it was one of the most honest and real memoirs that I've had the pleasure to read. I was also pleased to get a photo with him. Not as pleased as he was to get one with my girlfriend though?! Fair play to him though; a very nice, humble guy who deserved all the applause that he received throughout the night.

Hey pal, hands off?!

Other than getting Bob Holly to sign my book, the main aim of this show (apart from enjoying the show itself) was to get my girlfriend a photo with Tyler Bate.

Let me elaborate. Ala – the missus – came with me to a Triple XXX show in January. She saw Tyler in the ring and fell in love instantly. Despite me pointing out that he was 17-years-old, this didn't deter her from stating that, from that day on, Tyler would be her favourite wrestler. This has sometimes been forgotten when she met Chris Andrews, then Justin Sysum, oh and that time she saw Chris Masters at a show (what's up with my abs, eh?). But whenever I would mention going to a show with Tyler on it, she would, again, realise where her loyalties lay (hint: they don't lie with me... #SadFace).

On our way back to our seats from meeting Bob, there HE was: Tyler. I introduced myself and briefly said that Ala was his biggest fan and could we get a photo. He gladly accepted (and was probably a little worried). Ala's dream had finally come true: to be within touching distance of her favourite.

A little excited to meet Tyler...

All jokes aside, I'd like to thank James and Kaminkaze Pro for getting Bob Holly over here so that I had the chance to thank one of my childhood favourites, as well as get my book signed – that book now becomes an even bigger keeper in my eyes. Also thanks to Tyler for the photos with Ala; it made her night (and life probably?!). It's moments like this that show that wrestling is great for everyone. We both got something out of this show that made our nights!

Right, where was I? Oh yeah, wrestling positives and negatives:

Positive (with a hint of Negative): The Craziness Of The Ladder Match

I'll get the negativity out of the way first. Well, not that negative but just my personal preference. I'm not a huge fan of flippy, jumpy, diving-over-the-top-rope here, there and everywhere matches. I'm sure I could have condensed that sentence down, but there you go. I'm more of a 'wrestling' kind of fan and the flippy stuff just doesn't mean anything to me. It's pretty, it gets a 'OOOOOoooooo' from the crowd everytime (and those gosh darn 'THIS IS AWESOME!' chants that are kind of warranted and kind of aren't), but it's just for show. At times it just feels like a way of getting everyone's 'sh*t' in.

Okay, now I'll get onto what I thought of this match: it was excellent! As much as I'm not a fan of this type of flippy, floppy(?) type of match, I thought this was great in that it flowed really well. There were spots galore and it never took a second to breath. It kept you engrossed from start to finish; two guys would be in the ring, flip, spot, spot, flip, CRASH! And then another two guys would come in and do something equally as flippy and spotty and CRASHY! There were combinations of guys all at once and some nice (and scary) ladder spots. The pick of the bunch was when Pete Dunne pushed Damian Dunne from the ladder onto the one rested in the corner. Crazy stuff.

And a match involving Pete Dunne and 'Flash' Morgan Webster wouldn't be complete with a Reverse Hurricanrana?! Such a brutal looking move.

Fair play to all the guys in this match, it was exciting, brutal at times and had an unpredictable ending.

Negative: That Doesn't Seem To Make Sense...

After the ladder match had ended, MC/Commentator/General Manager(?) Lawrie Neal decided that Pete Dunne had been screwed out of winning the MITB briefcase and would fight Robbie X for it at the next show. This is such a bullsh*t way of announcing this match. Robbie won the match fair and square; low blows and all are allowed etc so it makes no sense to announce this match as if Pete is hard done by. Pete Dunne versus Robbie X should be a good one, whatever the prize involved, but this reminds me of when Damian Sandow 'screwed' Cody Rhodes out of winning the MITB briefcase last year. It's every man for themselves and there's no disqualifications. Get to the match without excuses like this.

POSITIVE: I Heart Sebastian Radclaw

I've said it before and I'll say it again; I love the Sebastian Radclaw character. It took me ages to finally see him on a show (previously watching him on his Youtube offerings was funny enough at the time) and when I did I couldn't believe that I'd waited so long. The twitchy, crazy, dancy little guy is TOO funny. I was in absolute stitches throughout this match; from the silliness of it being a 'Skat Monkey on a Pole' match, to his translations of what Marshall X was saying. Seb is so funny and really talented wrestling-wise, too, which is always a tick in the box for me. Comedy-wise I can think of Grado, Mad Man Manson and Radclaw as being genuinely funny guys in British wrestling; and comedy is definitely needed on shows. It's always great when people give their character 100% and I feel that that's what Seb does everytime!

Sebastian Radclaw

I think that Seb versus Marshall was my favourite match of the night. As crazy as this sounds, I was emotionally invested in him getting Skat Monkey back?! I loved the comedy aspect of the match and, for the first time in my British wrestling fandom, was CHANTING along. I have never done that before so it must have gripped me that much?!

POSITIVE: Imports Doing The/Their Job

I posted a tweet on Saturday after seeing one particular show's results. All the imports on their show (well, four out of five) went over their opponents (won). I'm sure this show was fantastic and everything but I couldn't believe that that was the 'scoreline' or whatever you'd like to call it. After doing an interview with Mad Man Manson on imports and having strong views on them myself for as long as I can remember, it really bothers me when we – in this country – seem to pander and treat these guys as if they are something special. Maybe some of them were/are, but they're going to be here for one match. ONE MATCH. It should be their job to make OUR guys look the business and in most cases do 'the job'. That doesn't have to happen everytime, but it should happen a lot more often than not. Don't get me wrong, it's not all about the wins and losses but in the fan's eyes that's sometimes really important; more important than just getting to be in the ring with an import.

Thank you to Bob Holly for doing that on this show. Obviously you do as you're told by the promoter and I think what was asked of Bob Holly on this night made Ryan Smile and Robbie X look better for it. I was completely surprised that Ryan LOST the Kamikaze Pro Championship to Bob Holly and that's a good thing. I had no doubt in my mind that Ryan would sneak a win and continue on as champion with Bob's scalp part of that reign.

It was a nice, unexpected surprise. And so was the finish to the show.

Out popped Robbie X, briefcase in hands, to smash Bob over the head and become the even newer Kamikaze Pro Champion. Great stuff! Not only had there been a huge surprise with Bob winning the belt but he had then done what was right and given Robbie the heel tagline going forward of 'I beat Bob Holly'.

Results

• Eddie Dennis defeated T-Bone
• Kamikaze Pro Tag Team Championship: The Miracle Violence Connection (Tyler Bate & Dan Moloney)(c) defeated The Hunter Brothers (Jim & Lee)
• Fighting Females match: Leah Von Dutch defeated Nixon Newell
• Money in the Bank ladder match: Robbie X defeated 'Dynamite' Pete Dunne, Damian Dunne, Chris Brookes, 'Flash' Morgan Webster and Ethan Silver to receive a future championship match
• Skat Monkey on a Pole match: Sebastian Radclaw (w/ The Spirit of Uncle Eggbert) defeated Marshall X to regain Skat Monkey
• Kamikaze Pro Championship: Bob 'Hardcore' Holly defeated Ryan Smile (c)
• Money in the Bank cash-in: Kamikaze Pro Championship: Robbie X defeated Bob 'Hardcore' Holly (c)

An excellent, feel-good show that was a pleaser from start to finish. Kamikaze has become one of my favourites with a good mix of wrestling, flips and sh*t, characters and stories to sink your teeth into. Thank you again to James and all the crew at Kamikaze for putting on a top show. It looks as if things are on the up and are progressing. The audience seem like they're regulars and with shows like this that will only improve in the months ahead. Birmingham are lucky to have a promotion such as this that brings a great level of entertainment to their Sunday evenings.

Please visit Kamikaze Pro on Facebook and Twitter; follow them and look out for future events – you will not be disappointed!

Support British Wrestling

@jimmosangle

The Positives and Negatives of My Weekend of (British) Wrestling at Pro EVW and Kamikaze Pro

Part One – Saturday 25^th October – Pro EVW – Bourton-On-The-Water

Pro EVW (mainly based in Gloucester) is one of my favourites. This might not be reflected with how many of their shows I've been to this year but that is due to my need and desire to get around more of the rest of the country's shows and get a better taste for wrestling in UK. Eventually, and not too far away, I'm going to have a good idea of which ones I like, which ones are a stretch to travel to, and which ones are the absolute sh*ts, and then I'll be a happy blogger who doesn't bitch and moan about every little thing. This will be a result of finding the promotions that make my whiny little brain happy and SUSPEND MY DISBELIEF from start to finish... that's not that hard to do, is it?

This weekend could have been perfect if I could have gone to one of my other favourites; Pro Wrestling Chaos (Bristol) on Friday night, but, unfortunately, my working hours would get in the way of that one... b*stards...

Positive: The Guys and Gals of Pro EVW

One of my favourite things about Pro EVW is that when I get there I'm really happy to see everyone. It's always nice to see everyone, from the wrestlers to the trainees to the organisers, and it's usually long overdue (as I noted earlier). All the wrestlers that appear on a Pro EVW show are friendly and there doesn't seem to be an ego about them, unlike some other shows that I go to. This is where I first got to see “behind the curtain” and I'll always be grateful for that.

Positive: Waking New Fans Up For The Night Ahead

I wasn't sure whether to make this a negative, but it stays a positive due to the effort made to get the audience 'into' this show and wake them up. MC Hank McCoy always does his best to get the audience ready for the matches, but it's always going to be difficult with a relatively new-to-wrestling crowd, especially when there aren't as many as you'd like in attendance. Hank did as best as he could before the opening match. This is when some work was needed to be done by the wrestlers in the opening match.

Luckily, this would be in the form of The Magnums (Walker and Riley) and Fame & Fortunate (Caine and Gordon). For the first five or so minutes, these four would have great comedy that would get the audience into the show and make them feel at ease. It was needed as small, inexperienced audiences need as much encouragement as they can get to realise that it's ok to make noise and it's ok to let yourself go at a wrestling show. I'm still not sure if this comedy segment, before the wrestling got going, was intentional but it worked better than if they would have just started wrestling straight away.

Chardonnay

Positive/Negative: Girls Matches

I've only really seen one good ladies match in my wrestling fandom. I don't even count the abomination in the WWE at the moment in that. Generally, I really want to like the ladies matches on UK shows but it's really difficult to. That's not to say that they shouldn't try, but I think there's a reason that they only get one match (if that) on most shows. It's a harsh reality, but as one of the wrestlers said to me after the show, it's not that 'believable' when girls are in the ring. The positive to this match was that there were some decent wrestling sequences in there. Some of the best of the night, in fact.

Positve: Justin vs Lomaxx (And Justin's Sh*tty Springboard 450 Splash)

I really like matches when there are two big men and one has that slight size advantage – you know he's going to kick the sh*t out of the slightly smaller guy for ten minutes! It reminds me of Iestyn Rees matches against, say, Big Grizzly or Richtor. He's a big guy, but he's up against someone bigger (and stronger?) and it's going to be a mission to overcome the odds. Justin had the same situation. I particularly liked Lomaxx vocalising how easy it was to shove Justin away. I think it was needed to show how dominant he was, and was going to be for the remainder of the match. It also made the audience hate him and think he was a cocky, over-confident dick.

The match would come to a close with Justin finally slamming Lomaxx after several teases. This got quite a good pop, as was desired. The impressive looking visuals continued as Justin finished the match with a Springboard 450 Splash.

Yeah ok Justin, You did good. Show off!

Positive: The Teacher and The Student

The System's Dom versus Matt Ridler wasn't billed as such but this was that type of feel. You had twenty-year veteran Dom taking Ridler to school at times with some no nonsense moves along with some tasty chops that I could feel in the back row. I was really looking forward to this match in particular as I'd seen them putting it together before the show. I kind of knew what was coming and it made complete sense to me. Matt looked good throughout but got the sh*t kicked out of him by the more experienced guy, who would pick up the somewhat dominant win. It's how these matches should always pan out with experience coming out on top nine times out of ten. As long as the younger guy comes out looking better then it's job done.

Additional positve for Tom (Logan) for his presence at ringside. At times I thought he was a bit too much, but there was a lot of confidence in everything he was saying (shouting) when getting the audience to cheer or boo. He even cracked out an impressive, and unexpected, American accent to berate one person in the crowd. Unlike a lot of trainees I see, Tom is a bigger guy that, with the right training/guidance, can be a good addition to the show in future. All the hair and facial hair helps in my book, too. There's just not enough beards in wresting at the moment...

'Mr Wales' Iestyn Rees

Positive: Bad Guy Iestyn Rees

I did some pre-show notes on Friday and one of them was about Pro EVW having the same heels and babyfaces in all the time that I've seen them. This isn't necessarily a bad thing as people will get fairly familiar with these battle lines, especially when they want a little continuity from show to show. For as long as I can remember, Iestyn has been a face for Pro EVW mainly as part of The Alpha Males. On this night, Iestyn would become 'Mr Wales' and attack 'The Swiss Pornstar', 'Fat Les', 'The Shark' Chris Andrews (Mr England) to set up the main event of England versus Wales. It's a simple thing to do and a nice change to see someone cross from face to heel (for one night only?).

Negative: The Champ Isn't Here

or

Positive: Working Around Setbacks

I don't know the ins-and-outs of it and it's none of my business, but the new Pro EVW Champion Charlie Garrett wasn't at this show. This disappointed me as I was looking forward to seeing him before the show and also versus Chris Andrews in the advertised main event. Regardless of this, the show and set of matches that happened were more than good enough. There were six matches with something for everyone. There were such talents as Iestyn Rees, Chris Andrews, The Magnums and UK Dominator along with up-and-comers Matt Ridler and Logan; trainees used in the right way.

Again, in my pre-show notes, I had this big speech about how Charlie being champion sets up some nice possibilities. You could have him against former champion Justin Sysum. There's also a match that could take place against the guy that he beat for the title, Sam Bronson. The most intriguing is if Iestyn were to stay heel (or turn heel on Charlie) and there's a jealousy match between The Alpha Males. Some good possibilities for those that like a bit of continuity with their wrestling shows.

Results

• Pro EVW Tag Team Championship: Fame & Fortunate (Robbie Caine & 'Gentleman' Gilligan Gordon)(c) defeated The Magnums ('Filthy' Chris Walker & 'Dirty' Dick Riley)
• Chardonnay defeated Nadia Sapphire
• Justin 'The Hammer' Sysum defeated Lomaxx
• JD Knight defeated Sam Bronson
• Dom (w/ Logan) defeated Matt Ridler
• Team England; Chris Andrews & The Magnums defeated Team Wales; Iestyn Ress & Fame & Fortunate

Another nice little show in a new venue. Not the biggest attendance; I'd have thought around 80 were there, but that's not a bad thing for a new venue, especially as they usually draw around 200 at their other, regular venues. This show reminded me of how good a Pro EVW show can be and that I need to get my ass down Gloucester way more often. As I said before, when I've gotten around the majority of the country's promotions I'll have a better idea of where is worth my time. I have no doubt that Pro EVW will always be on that list.

Lomaxx

Please check out Pro EVW on Facebook and Twitter and look out for any future events. A very good family show that does the simple things well and sends everyone home happy, everytime.

Support British Wrestling

@jimmosangle

COMING SOON - Part Two - Sunday 26^th October – Kamikaze Pro – Birmingham

Jimmo's Angle Special: Interview: Mad Man Manson on Imports and British Wrestling

Recently, I did an article for The Indy Corner (link) about imports on the UK wrestling scene. It's been a subject that I've thought about for a long time now and felt the need to bring attention to. Additionally to this, I was speaking to a good friend of mine who dropped a few names of people that had similar opinions of imports as I do and I felt it was worth seeing for myself how these individuals really felt.

I messaged Mad Man Manson about this subject and he happily obliged to share his thoughts on imports. He was also kind enough to share his thoughts on the British wrestling scene.

I live in hope that my words will somehow make people think and change things that they do. I realise, however, that this probably won't be the case and people will continue to do what they are doing because they get certain endorsements that give them the justifications to continue. Hopefully people will listen to the following words from a British wrestling favourite and think hard about their future dealings in British wrestling.

The following is an interview I conducted with Mad Man Manson on 'Imports' and 'British wrestling':

Imports
What is your general view on imports on the UK scene?
Well, here's the general dealio:
It's not the import's fault, I've been an import for half my 'career', they are just guys trying to make money in the job. It's the promoters and fellow 'wrestlers'. Promoters paying over the odds and acquiescing to their demands while on the other hand arguing with their regular talent about £5 extra for exes, etc.

Some promoters use them brilliantly – Fludboat (Stephen Fludder - PCW) in Preston tells them exactly what he wants and if they don't do it, he fucks them off. Perfect business. If you hired a plumber to fix your sink, you wouldn't let him watch your TV, eat your dinner and paint your door.

The 'wrestlers' are their own worst enemy on this one - How many times have you seen “I get to wrestler tonight. OMG!” on a social media status? It's fucking embarrassing. No, you don't GET to wrestle so-and-so, you GET to be paid to do your fucking job like every office drone, football player, carpenter and warehouse man in the country. BUT this is because they haven't been trained in the job, they're fans. Nothing wrong with being a fan but when you take money from my pocket, I have a problem with it.

Sadly, there's nowt I can do about it, nor is it my place to judge others on how they wish to behave. I do know that as long as XYZ wrestling is paying £500 plus quid to cover some shitbox yank who works for $50 at home, we'll always be looked down at as jokes by the rest of the wrestling world.

What do you think imports bring to British wrestling?
If they have any kind of name value, they bring in paying customers. Some of the more experienced ones can also be used to teach students but in general, the teaching should be left to the British guys. People from all over the world come here to train - guys like Brian Danielson, Fergal Devitt, El Generico and loads more came here to learn the job before going onto great success. Every Summer, Japanese, American and European wrestlers travel to this country to learn how to work. This country! This is where they choose to learn. SO, why the fuck do people here fly off to those countries under the guise of it being to learn? It doesn't make sense. If you're not making it here, it's one of two reasons - 1: You're not good enough. 2: You're not fucking good enough.

Imports are over valued, British wrestlers are under valued. This is British wrestling, nobody can do it better than a British wrestler.

Are they really worth the expense?
Depends on the expense. If you get Hulk Hogan for a tenner and two people pay a tenner each to see him, who wouldn't have been coming to the show without him, bang! Profit. If, however, you pay a tenner for someone who doesn't bring in a paying customer or a DVD sale, bang! Loss. It really is that simple.

People like to cloud and muddy the issue using buzz words like 'exposure' and 'elevating home talent' but it's bollocks. IF YOU AREN'T MAKING MONEY AS A WRESTLER, EITHER STOP DOING IT OR GET BETTER. IF YOU'RE NOT MAKING MONEY AS A PROMOTER, EITHER STOP DOING IT OR GET BETTER.

Do you feel that British wresting show-goers know who the majority are?
Depends on the show goer. There's no average. The crowd up at PCW would know the majority but the crowd at Devon Cliffs wouldn't have a clue. Similar attendances, different audiences. Promoters and wrestlers in this country are blinded to the bigger picture as the majority are fans, not businessmen. Being a fan is not a bad thing, but allowing your heart to rule your head is. People get caught up in calling it 'the business' like the rules are somehow special and specific only to it. Remove 'the' and you're left with just fucking business! That's what it is. Treat it as such.

British Wrestling
What is your view on British wrestling at the moment? Is it the in a “great” place like many claim it is?
It can't be judged with a sweeping statement as there are far too many variables. Some of us are successful, make good money and enjoy it. Others don't. Are there some exciting things going on? Definitely. PCW, PROGRESS, that ICW in Scotland. All doing brilliantly. Making money, entertaining fans and giving the wrestlers a solid, safe, enjoyable environment in which to work.

We can work 3 or 4 days a week, every week. During the Summer, we can work anything up to a dozen jobs a week. NOWHERE else in the world is that available. It should be appreciated and respected.

What do you see as the main problems in British wrestling?
No business sense. Too many training schools. Too few barriers to entry into the job itself. An immature attitude towards the job from those within it. Fragmentation of market sector leading to diminishing returns in terms of profitability, audience share and potential growth.

There's some great things going on. There's some shit things going on. I'm involved in both.

Is there a problem with training in this country and too much of a 'fan mentality' amongst the 'wrestlers'?
There are about 9 people in this country good enough to train. There are about 90 training schools. See the problem? Why would someone go all the way to Dean Allmark's excellent, reliable, safe, productive school when they could play wrestler with their mates in their local hall? If the job was harder to get into, the fans who try to get into it would either a) Become excellent tradesmen having overcome the obstacles or b) Understand that it's not a viable career or job for everyone and go back to being fans again.

The absolute best piece of advice I can offer to anyone thinking of, or currently training is this - Look at the training school. Look at the trainer. Now ask these questions: Has that school produced anyone who is where you wish to be? No? Walk the fuck away. Has that trainer produced anyone who has gone on to be where you aspire to be? No? Walk the fuck away.

People are picking training schools based on geography. How fucking ridiculous is that?! 'Well, training school A is well run, successful and safe but training school B is near my bus stop. B it is!' Clowns.

Some of us look after each other and let each other know when there's money to be made somewhere. A promoter will always try and get a price down (as they should, that's business) but the fan wrestlers are so desperate to wrestle, they drop their price to a pittance. The business minded wrestlers charge more of a premium as they are not desperate to be performers.

What do you enjoy about wrestling?
I enjoy the adventurous lifestyle at times. I enjoy seeing new places and experiencing new things. I enjoy spending time with my friends who are also in the job. I get a buzz from entertaining people and making them laugh. I also enjoy the money and opportunities it provides for me, without that, I would not be involved in it. I have gotten far more from my time in the job than it has asked of me. That is a real positive for me.

Why do you do it?
I do it primarily for money. The same reasons most people do most jobs. It is a trade that I have trained in and know how to do well, within my own limitations. People want to give me money to ply my trade. I want to let them. The bonus to that is that I enjoy entertaining people. I get a good feeling when something goes well, when something is received well. Like an actor or comedian on stage, it feels good to connect with an audience as an entertainer.


As I said in the introduction to this interview, I hope that this makes people think more. Whether it is bringing in imports or our general attitude to how things are done in British wrestling, things still need to improve in this country if we are to be seen as more than just a place to get an easy pay-off and where anyone can get on a show. Manson is right, it SHOULD be harder to get into wrestling.

I'd like to thank Darren (Manson) for his time and answers. It was refreshing to hear what someone REALLY feels about some of the most important issues in British wrestling instead of the usual sugar-coating that a lot of people seem to do.

Support British Wrestling

@jimmosangle

The Positives and Negatives of Grand Slam Wrestling (Ravenhill/Mason)

This weekend was one of them busy ones where I thought it would be a great idea to go to two shows and then write up the reviews for both. This all equals having not much of a weekend left, but in the case of this one just passed, it was well worth it! From a wrestling point of view, this weekend wasn't ever going to fail – Saturday I saw the likes of Martin Kirby, 'Flash' Morgan Webster and El Ligero alongside some of the best there is in the Bristol area (see the link) and on Sunday I saw James Mason, 'Returing from a WWE tour' Stevie Starr, and one of my favourite comedy heels, Mean Tommy Dean.

As much as I love going to CHAOS or PROGRESS shows – quite possibly my two favourites at the moment – I love going to see shows put on by Alan Ravenhill and James Mason. You just cannot go wrong with these types of shows. On a side note, I NEVER know what to call these shows?! I'm pretty sure it's called 'Grand Slam Wrestling' but then I hear it referred to as 'Superstars of Wrestling' (not to be confused with the SUPERCARDS that are on offer down Gloucester way...). It could also be called 'Welsh Wrestling' (in England?) but that's who I always think this is 'in association with' and all that...

Anyway, what it is is a great afternoon of wrestling for all the family (urgh, I feel like I'm promoting it on the radio or something?!). Like my other review this weekend, this review will probably be a complete ass kissing affair, too! What I want to try and get across here, though, is why this particular show is quite possibly one of the BEST in the country without doing anything massively fancy. And I can imagine what some of the die-hard fans of other promotions will think to that comment; 'he's talking sh*t' or 'my promotion has eight matches and there's loads of dives and stuff' and other hugely hilarious crap like that.

Let the kissing-up commence...

Positive: A Nice Surprise...

When I've attended Alan and James' shows in the past, there hasn't been what I'd call a great turn out for them. I'd have thought that there's been around the 80 mark at other shows, and that's not bad considering they don't really use any online advertising (not that I can find, anyway!). The advertising is somewhat old-school with flyers, posters and radio plugs. I think it's sometimes hard to grasp what the single best way to promote a wrestling show is but I've always liked the idea of handing out and posting flyers to people – it's got a personal touch to it; you've made that first connection with a potential show-goer and made it seem that you want that individual to come to your show. Anyway, when we walked into the hall of the Bracknell Leisure Centre, I was pleasantly surprised to see a good-sized crowd ready for some wrestling. In situations like this I don't really do a proper headcount (sometimes I'm not THAT sad...) but scanning around, I think there was around 150; pretty good for a one-off show.

Positive: Headset Hank McCoy

This weekend I really wanted to give my pal, Hank McCoy a shout out. On Saturday he was slightly annoyed at a Twitter comment that suggested that he was 'annoying'. Whoever sent that tweet has no idea; you see him every now and then at a show, I have to put up with him every week?!

Jokes aside, Hank had a tough start to this show as the microphone decided to be a bugger, resulting in him having to shout the announcements out to the audience. I was at the back and could just about hear him so it was a good effort to get the required information out there until a headset was sorted for him to use for the remainder of the show. I kind of hoped that he would wear it like he was Britney Spears but that never happened!

Here's Hank with a crap example of my point

Saturday's annoyance at people questioning his work in tweets (not as bad as I'm making it out to be!) and his professionalism on Sunday all makes me think that this guy is so underused in British wrestling. Yes, I'm completely biased because he's my mate, but Hank McCoy (if that is your real name?!) doesn't just announce people for their matches; he doesn't just shill merchandise and backstage passes; he works his ass off from before doors open until the last person leaves because he understands that he has a job to do; an IMPORTANT job that is completely overlooked by a lot of promotions in the UK. I'm not writing this to get him booked anywhere, I'm simply pointing out that if you have a Hank McCoy (which you don't) on your show then you've already got a great presentation that will attract fans back the next time.

Negative: Because I Need One Somewhere!

I need to admit something. I f*cking hate 'Rockin' All Over The World' by Status Quo. I really do. In my lifetime I have heard it thousands of times and I'm sure generations and generations before me hated it too when it came out in 1875. But I kind of love it a little bit when James Mason enters to it (does that sound naughty to anyone else, or have I just got a dirty mind?). It's such a happy, clap-along, babyface song that it works so well. God damn you, James, for making me like Status Quo a little bit...

Positive: A James Mason Opener

This will never, ever be a negative. If you need someone to open your show then book James Mason (he's got a lightening strike on his singlet that makes him go faster!). I have never seen a bad opener involving James Mason (apart from against Justin Sysum, but that must've been Justin's fault!) and I don't think I ever will. It's one of the most important things to get right on a wrestling show and James never fails to deliver.

And then there's Tommy Dean.

I wish I hated Tommy when he comes out for a match, but I never do. I just find myself laughing at his 'manliness' or whatever he calls it. I'm in awe of his chiselled physique and 28-inch biceps. He is a wrestling god. I'm glad to say that he makes a James Mason Opener that much better, because James has to beat someone, right?

Positive: Why I Think That This Show Is One Of The BEST In The Country

Let me get to the point here. I've looked forward to going to one of these shows because I knew it would be my favourite to do a review on. This show was made for doing a positives and negatives post on as it highlights one of my key beliefs when it comes to British wrestling.

This shows layout is the layout that should be used more. Match one was a simple, flowing affair that gets the audience involved, wakes them up and gets them ready for the night ahead. Match two slowed things down a touch and got the audience ready for match number three, where, on this occasion, there was a big shiny belt to look at and say 'OOOOOOooooooooo' in amazement. After the hard-hitting championship bout there was an interval so everyone could regroup, get a drink, and the kids could recharge their batteries before screaming their lungs out for a further two matches (yes, just two matches in the second half – don't overdo it and kill your crowd's energy by making them sit through a WWE-amount of matches; you're NOT WWE in so many ways so don't copy them!).

This consisted of a match to remind everyone it's time for wrestling again (congrats to Jutler and Tagori for that) and then the main event which saw a tag team contest between four 'backstage brawlers' from ealier in the night. The heroes win, the villains get laughed at and get chased out, and your audience leave knowing that good prevailed over evil. How f*cking difficult is that to do? Not very.

One of the best things about this layout was something that Chris Walker (Magnums) pointed out to me in the car ride home from CHAOS on Saturday: people need to understand their position on the card; if there's a powerbomb in the first match then how is your main event going to top that, for example? Instead of getting all of one's 'sh*t' in because it's your 'opportunity' to shine and blah blah blah, how about just doing your job in your designated part of the show. If you get to the main event one day, do as many powerbombs as you like.

The Smiling Psycho (does that work?)

Positive: This Kade Callous Fellow...

I'd never seen Kade Callous before. I think he's a Welsh Wrestling regular (right?) and that's one of the shows that I'd like to check off the list so I'm sure I'll see him again. Just a quick note here about him; I really liked his crazy-smile-to-angy-psycho look that he did throughout the afternoon. I think it's something he does well and, for me, it's unique to do it AND do it right.

Positive: New Attire

Just lately, I'm blown away that James Mason seemed to have a new singlet – the one with a lightening strike on them – and NOW I'm even more blown away that Tagori – the Japanese Warrior with matching music – also appears to be sporting new gear since the last time I saw him?! Maybe they could tag sometime? (I genuinely feel dirty for attempting such a crap joke...)

Results

• James Mason (w/Status Quo) defeated 'Mean' Tommy Dean
• JD Knight defeated Antonio De Luca
• British Heavyweight Championship: 'Returning From A WWE Tour' Stevie Starr (c) defeated Kade Callous
• Tagori defeated Kay Jutler
• Stevie Starr and Antonio De Luca defeated Kade Callous and JD Knight

I should point out that I've given Stevie Starr the moniker 'retuning from a WWE tour' because I think it is both genius and hilarious that it's used to introduce him! Sometimes I just sit here and amuse myself...

I couldn't find a picture of Tagori, so here's Tajiri (close enough)

Anyway, what a fantastic show this was. It's amazing how such a simple show can get just as good a reaction as some of the regularly-run shows that there are around the country. I really hope that I have conveyed this in this post as it really is pleasing to see a show that sends you home in a good mood with the least amount of effort (not to say that there wasn't effort from the performers, but it seemed so effortless to get the appropriate reactions throughout the afternoon!).

If you can get to a Ravenhill/Mason/Grand Slam Wrestling/Whatever They Call It show then I urge you to. It is a fantastic family afternoon of simple-to-follow wrestling, with lots of laughs and a great feel-good ending... unless Tommy Dean is main eventing, of course...

Support British Wrestling

@jimmosangle

The Positives and Negatives of Pro Wrestling CHAOS

Fiesta Del Rey Chaos

My third visit to Pro Wrestling CHAOS would come this weekend as they presented 'Fiesta Del Rey Chaos', a Mexican-themed version of the show with a Mexican flag and sombrero wearing Ring Announcer, a talented, horned Mexican (British) performer in the main event followed by a pinata (happy) ending.

I was really looking forward to this show as it appeared to be the best line-up that Dave and co. had put together. Alongside their mainstays of Gideon, Jeckyl, The Wild Galleons et al, there were going to be the additions of both Project Ego members Martin Kirby and Kris Travis, El Ligero and T-Bone. CHAOS has been making great strides since it's first show and this has paid off with these kinds of additions to an already entertaining roster.

I'm going to get straight to the point of this post; 'The Positives and Negatives' of CHAOS will be hugely in favour of the positive aspects of the show. I've really tried to come up with negatives but there are very, very few and even those are probably more jokey or me being a picky, shut-your-face-and-enjoy-the-bloody-show blogger...

Positive: So Many Beards...

Before the show I would look around and be in awe of all the facial hair that would be on offer for this show. The Hanham audience probably still don't realise how lucky they were to have witnessed such a showing of testosterone and machoness. Gideon, Grizzly, Bane, Jeckyl, Eddie Dennis, Chris Walker, Mike Bird... writing that list just brings it home how much beardy goodness was on offer. Note to self: grow my beard back like a real man.

Here's a cut-out beard...

Positive: The Panic And Passion of Dave Youell

And in the same kiss-ass way that I did with Nick Ashberry at EAW the other week, this positive will be all about one of the men driving CHAOS in the successful direction that it is currently going in. I met Dave at the first show that I went to earlier this year and was instantly humbled that he liked my reviews etc, and was very welcoming to me (probably because he wanted a decent review himself!). Since then I have had a few interactions over Facebook with him as well as seeing him up at Triple X Wrestling (Coventry) where he does a sleazy, disgusting character that you should go and see for yourself (use protection). I have also gotten advice from him in a couple of phone conversations and I'm very grateful for the time that he has given me for the questions that I've thrown his way.

The point of this positive is to highlight the passion and determination of him (as well as Nick and Rob) to make this show as successful as possible. He's a huge wrestling fan himself that wants to give local fans the best possible show so that they come back again and again. I think he's doing a fantastic job of making that happen. The panic of Dave Youell is something I've seen every show now; even though the show is sold out or WILL sell out; even though he has a great team around him that are doing their bits, whether it be constructing their matches, doing the music and sound checks; and even though everything is in order and ready to go, Dave is still on edge – probably until the show is over – and this is great to see. It's great to see that he cares so much and it's great to see that that panic, passion and determination pays off with having over 200 fans making as much noise as possible before, during and after six extremely entertaining matches.

Positive: As If They Needed Waking Up MORE!

The first match of the evening should wake the crowd up and get them ready for the rest of the night. On this night, the audience were crazy up-for-it BEFORE the show. They were then worked into a further frenzy with the addition of MC Hank McCoy and THEN the first match had an easy job ahead of it. Perfect. For me, the first match should be short(ish), fast paced and to the point. Dave Mercy versus Jeckyl was just that. They went off at a quick pace and it didn't drop too much from that point. It ended at just the right time and, as if the Hanham locals needed anymore reason to be rowdy, Jeckyl got the win to get them p*ssed off and even more passionate for the night ahead.

Positive: The Sleaziness Of The Second Match

The second match of the night would be the funniest match of the night. The first ever ladies match in CHAOS would take place between Scotland's Kay Lee Ray and the rest of the UK's Pollyanna. The first positive of the match would be Kay Lee Ray's entrance. At first she would come out, arms firmly behind her back, not really giving the fans any acknowledgement. On entering the ring, after getting an indifferent reaction, she would snatch the microphone from Hank McCoy and let everyone know that she deserved better, would be making her entrance again and expected a more welcoming response. On entering again, she received the response that she deserved as Hanham would make it clear that she should go back to where she came from. Now I knew that she was the heel. Simple and effective.

The second positive of this match was the introduction of special referee, 'Filthy' Chris Walker – one half of The Magnums. He would stake his claim to being the referee as he had more experience with 'dealing with two women at the same time'. I'd question that claim but he was made the referee anyway. There were so many laugh-out-loud moments in this match with Walker reacting to every sleazy-looking move and pinning predicament in the funniest way.

The third positive of this match was the pleasing ending. After siding with fellow heel Kay Lee Ray throughout the match, Walker would have a falling out with her towards the end which would earn him a slap from her. This would then lead to her downfall as he would deliver a fast-count in favour of Pollyanna for the win.

Negative/Positive: The Death Of The Kraken/Emergence Of Big Grizzly

The Wild Galleons do it for me. They're a great act for the kids to get behind, but they're also so likeable and silly that it gets a 31-year-old 'Yo Ho, Let's Go!'ing along with them. Part of their act is The Kraken, who is dressed pretty silly but can move really well for a big man. I loved him chucking himself around in the six-man tag elimination here! The ending would see The Kraken turn on his fellow shipmates and then reveal himself to be Big Grizzly, complete with his best 1999 Vince McMahon impression: 'It was me! It was me all along!'.

Steve (Grizzy) is too much of an angry, scary heel to have been playing a Kraken forever so it's nice that he'll get a new start without the mask. It's a good way to end the Galleons/Doomsday Killers storyline and give Captain Jack and Roger something new to do. Looking forward to the future there!

Negative: Oh He's A Heel...

Here's where I'm going to be a picky, w*nker blogger. The triple threat after the interval between Martin Kirby, Morgan Webster and Wild Boar started with all three coming out and doing the usual babyface-slapping-hands-with-everyone-in-sight gig before entering the ring ready to put on a trademark CHAOS triple threat match. When all three were in the ring, it would be then that Kirby would decide to berate the audience and reveal that he would be the heel of the three. I much prefer it when the battlelines are drawn before the match starts. If you're the heel, then come out and scowl at people; knock kid's hats off their heads; anything, don't do the slap hands routine and then do one thing that shows your a heel.

Negative: No Kirby vs Webster singles match?

But then...

Positive: Another Really Exciting Triple Threat Match

Part of me was annoyed that Wild Boar got added to this match. With the news that Kris Travis wouldn't be able to make the show I really hoped that a new opponent would be picked for Boar and things could commence as I'd wanted. I was really looking forward to the fast paced spotfest that Kirby and Webster would've put on; in other matches that I'd seen these two in they had really impressed me; this would have been a fresh match that I didn't remember seeing advertised anywhere else.

I made a deal with myself that I would give the three-way a chance and I'm glad that I didn't sit there in a mood that I couldn't see the originally-planned match. This triple threat was up there with the others that I'd seen at CHAOS and keeps me interested and excited for future triple threats as they always seem to deliver.

Positive: Ring Rage

Just a quick note: I loved T-Bone's entrance for his match with Eddie Dennis. He came out and seemed really p*ssed off! I'd say he was probably the scariest heel of the night as he walked to ringside shouting in kids faces, knocking kid's hats of their head (quite tame, I know) and even pushing one guy back in his seat when he dared to square-up to Bone. This is the type of thing where everyone can really get behind the babyface – with the aggression that Bone showed, I'd want to see him to get the sh*t kicked out of him.

T-Bone

Positive: The CHAOS Of The Ringside Brawl

Normally, I hate it when a match, especially a main event, spills to the floor and then there's ten minutes of fighting amongst these chairs then fighting amongst them chairs, followed by fighting by the bar. Not everyone can see what's going on and it gets somewhat boring and tedious waiting for it to get back in the ring where you know the finish will take place. I sometimes find it lazy that there isn't enough wrestling to get through a match of this importance. Ligero vs Bird was a little different, though. Yes, the fighting in these chairs and them chairs got a bit tedious, but then Ligero dived from the stage onto Bird – that got a reaction out of me. That grabbed my attention. The more engrossed I got, the more it reminded me of championship 'wars' that I had seen down at Pro EVW in Gloucester. On them shows, the champion generally went through the ultimate struggle to keep hold of his title. This match felt like those. Great to see a Piledriver making a comeback, too!

Personal Positive: Feedback

It really pleased me that during the afternoon and evening, I had several comments and chats with people regarding the reviews that I do. People seemed genuinely interested and this made me feel that there is good to what I do. Don't get me wrong, I'm going to do them regardless, but it's nice to know that people, including wrestlers, enjoy and appreciate(?) the b*ll*cks that I spout! Thank you to those that approached me and sent comments my way about what I do. One of the hardest thing to get is feedback so I always welcome anyone's opinion and I'm more than happy to justify my positives and negatives. Admittedly, sometimes it's just my personal preference on something and other times something just flat-out p*sses me off because I'm sure it shouldn't be that way?!

Results

• Jeckyl defeated Dave Mercy
• Pollyanna defeated Kay Lee Ray (Special Referee: 'Filthy' Chris Walker)
• Six-man Tag Team Elimination: The Wild Galleons (Captain Dick Morgan, Roger The Cabin Boy and The Kraken) and The Doomsday Killers (Gideon, Killbain and Ian Williams) ended in a no-contest
• Triple Threat: Martin Kirby defeated 'Flash' Morgan Webster and Wild Boar
• 'The Pride of Wales' Eddie Dennis defeated T-Bone
• King of CHAOS Championship: 'Flyin'' Mike Bird (c) defeated El Ligero

I realise that I have massively kissed CHAOS' ass here but it is well deserved! As a fan, I couldn't fault anything really and this worried me?! I never intend to find anything negative about the shows but something normally crops up. On this occasion, I just enjoyed the hell out of it; I was smiling from the first match all the way through to when everyone was leaving and the ring was being dismantled!

If you can manage to get a ticket (they sell out every show, didn't you know?) then I urge you to attend a Pro Wrestling CHAOS show. It's one of the up-and-comers in the country and provide an excellent night out for all the family. That's a very notable word there: family. There is such a great family feel to these shows. The wrestlers that compete (more-so the regulars) interact in a way that lead you to KNOW that they are all on the same page; the people that attend these shows unite and sing, cheer, boo, scream and get frustrated as one; and together, the CHAOS guys and the fans have a great relationship that I don't see getting weaker in the future. As I've typed that I've felt that it sounds a bit cheesy, or deep, but I don't care! A top wrestling show gets an emotional reaction from it's fans and that's what happened at this show.

Support British Wrestling

@jimmosangle

The Positives and Negatives of EAW: Caged Warfare

I've been very fortunate that a lot of people have welcomed my 'positives and negatives' posts when doing show reviews. On the back of this, I have had invites to a few shows to give my view on what I like and didn't like. I'm grateful to them and applaud them for having the bottle to take any constructive criticism that might come their way. Obviously, I can't stress enough that they can take it or leave it – let's face it; I'm a nobody – if you're confident in your show and what you're doing then great; If you see that what I offer is complete crap then carry on with what you're doing.

I just hope, in some way, that I can highlight something that you didn't spot and change it for the better.

Anyway...

This weekend was a bit of a stacked one for me for a change, with NBWA in Banbury on Saturday evening (see link) and then a kind invitation from Nick Ashberry to come up to Rushden to see his EAW (Extreme American Wrestling) show and give my thoughts. I spoke to Nick over Facebook and really liked the way he described EAW and what his shows are about.

Positive: The Pemberton Centre, Rushden

The venue was pretty easy to find. Unlike visiting Southside a few weeks ago, we took a more direct route to Rushden to ensure that we got there on time and there were no country roads to overcome! As we walked into the hall of the centre, it was an impressive sight: the ring (obviously), plenty of seats around and a very good set-up on the stage, where the wrestlers would enter from. This looked like a wrestling show and was a great positive before the show even began. And yes, the ceiling was VERY high – Jimmo = happy.

Positive: Know Your Role, Fans

As we got a drink from the bar, Nick (Owner, MC, Ring Announcer...) was on the mic to give the fans some direction on what they should do during the show; basically, when the heels come out you 'BOO!' them and when the babyfaces come out you 'YAY!' them. This wasn't really needed, as the audience seemed to know what they should do, but it was a nice touch. USUALLY I would hate this but this is a largely family orientated show so it's probably a good move to involve them early on and iron-out any confusions they would have in making any sort of noise. Luckily, the Pemberton Centre was filling up nicely, and when you have a big attendance they feed off each other and get comfortable making noise. I couldn't say for sure how many were there but it must have been easily over 200.

Positive: This Is Going To Sound Picky...

At the previous night's show (and NO, this isn't going to be a comparison post) there was a 'pre-show match'. EAW gave us a 'free match' before the show. I can understand if this is seen that I'm being picky but, for me, a simple thing like having a pre-show match and calling it one thing rather than another is a big deal. By calling it 'free' you are 'giving' the fans something for nothing – that sounds a hell of a lot more appealing than calling it a straight-up 'pre-show match'. That just makes it seem that you're copying a well-known American company... very small thing but I instantly noticed the wording and how that made me feel as a paying customer – it was nice that I was seemingly getting something for nothing.

Positive: I prefer Rude Boy Matt and Rude Boy Taylor to 'Shortfuse' Matt Walker and Taylor Made

Okay, that statement isn't entirely true; I dig the WHAM! Theme music that Taylor Made has, but I can definitely do without the nipples gag every show, so it was nice that Rude Boy Matt wears a vest to cover them burger nips. I also liked the Prime Time Crew's gimmick (this was the team name that Rude Boys Matt, Taylor, and their partner Nate (?) had). I hate chavs and what better gimmick to have as heels – it works, they were hated (“dirty chavs” chants) and it's very British... that was nice to see on an Extreme American Wrestling show!

Paul Malen

Positive/Negative: Get Your Own Moves!

This is the start of me being a moany, whiny know-it-all, 'shut your mouth and just enjoy the show' blogger tw*t. There were a LOT of WWE signature moves in this match and it bothered me. And that's not a bad thing! For me, I didn't appreciate seeing an Attitude Adjustment, a Rock Bottom, I'm sure there was an RKO in there, an attempt at a People's Elbow and a 'You Can't See Me' taunt. I did appreciate the 3-D with the RKO variation to it, though; that was a little different. MORE IMPORTANTLY, the screaming kids next to me and all around LOVED all this. After all, it is Extreme AMERICAN Wrestling so why not thrown in WWE moves?!

Negative: This One's For You, Paz: The Referees

A lot of shows don't see having a good referee as a priority. I can kind of understand that as in their eyes and, for them, the fans eyes, it's all about the wrestlers. But having a sh*t referee can make a hell of a difference in a BAD way. The two referees on this show didn't look interested at all. They allowed EVERYTHING that happened and didn't show ANY authority when a heel would do something outrageous, and were far too easily distracted (the referee distraction was used a little too much early on). In the main event they might as well have not been out there as Andy Poole climbed the cage whenever he liked or slammed a door into Marc Massa's face and they just watched and allowed it. I can imagine Ref Paz watching this match and stabbing his eyes out at it! Paz, they also missed several 5-count opportunities – I know this eats you up inside!

POSITIVE (IN CAPITALS): Stixx And The Story Of The Second Match

The second match was probably my favourite of the night. I say this because I could not stop smiling at the story, the personalisation of certain moves/strikes, and the 'will he, won't he' ending to the match.

First of all, Stixx (heel) came out and explained the story so far. This was great for me – a new fan around these parts – as I had no idea who people were. Stixx explained that Blake, an EAW favourite, was getting nowhere kissing up to the fans and that he was going to take him under his wing (basically, whether he wanted it or not). Their opponents would be The Predators; Joe Connors and Paul Malen. The match would tell a great story of Stixx showing Blake 'how it's done' before Blake would reluctantly get in, do the minimum and then not like his actions. The only complaint I had was that he was a bit reluctant to WRESTLE his opponents – whether you like Stixx or not; COMPETE! Anyway, as the match went on, The Predators would keep questioning Blake about his partnership with Stixx (hey, he didn't ask for this?!) before Blake started to show signs of frustration, before grabbing a handful of tights for the win...

Stixx; excellent job on the night

On the stage, Blake would then confirm his new, and true, colours by embracing Stixx (not in that way) and stating that they were 'winners'. Blake looked a little inexperienced so an alliance with Stixx is probably a good thing for him going forward.

Oh, and the 'personalisation of moves/strikes' I referred to was in relation to The Preators. I'm not saying that they are the innovators of these but it pleased me that when they had an opponent in the corner, instead of your average, generic punches, Malen would bounce Stixx' head into the top turnbuckle a couple of times, then the middle a couple of times and then would finish the obligatory ten on the bottom turnbuckle. Good stuff. Connors' impressed me a little more with his clothesline/elbow combination strikes in the corner. Little things make it look like you have your own identity.

Positive: I Recognise Them Nipples

Hey, Super Koji, I recognise your nipples; you're not fooling anyone! AND you don't sound Japanese! I'm onto you...

Negative: Get In The Gym ASAP

I thought it, I still think it, so I have to say it... there were a few guys on the show that needed to get in the gym. I know this is the case with a lot of shows, but this is the first thing I thought when Andy Poole got into the ring and took off his 'I did not tap out' shirt (I'm guessing he did tap out at some point?). I realise that this is a family show so this won't be important to a lot of them fans as long as he gets the sh*t kicked out of him by the crowd favourite (as he did), but it's just something that stuck out to me.

Positive/Negative: Mister Monster Is A Great Character, But This Match Type Isn't Family Friendly

This is the part where I sound like an old git, and sometimes, I am. I thought the Mister Monster guy was really good. The kids loved him, he's got a... unique look. But it always screams one thing to me when a guy's 'speciality' is hardcore-style matches. I don't know the history between these guys as this was my first show, but sh*t must have gotten real if they require a Dumpster/Weapons That The Fans Bring Can Be Used match.

The fish flapping in TK Hayward's face was a good laugh and the introduction of Lego bricks (I think?) was a nice touch, too.

Supplemental positive for having the hardcore guy go for the Light-Heavyweight title!

Although this match could be family friendly if not as much stuff was used etc, this one didn't seem that way due to a couple of unsure, silly spots. As I pointed out about 'dangerous' spots on the NBWA show the night before, the table-over-the-dumpster spot where Mister Monster went into it looked like it didn't go exactly to plan. As I said previously, if in doubt, don't be an idiot and hurt yourself. I know some people in wrestling think that this is their life etc etc, but I can guarantee that you have a day job on Monday morning so make sure you can get to it. Stick more to wrestling and leave your ironing boards and decorating tables at home.

Yes, the families and kids loved this match but isn't this the type of stuff that gets wrestling in the news due to one kid hitting his sister with a frying pan or some other 'hardcore' act of violence?

Wow, that was deep... onto more positives:

Positive: The Charity Scalping And The Raffle

I'm always a little sceptical when the words wrestling and charity collection are in the same place. This was a nice touch, though, and hopefully worked towards gaining extra cash for the chosen charity (sorry, didn't catch the name of it). On last hearing, I believe that they reached the goal of £1400 which is a huge amount to generate! Well done to EAW and the guy (sorry, didn't quite catch his name, either) that got his head and beard shaved!

The raffle was the best that I'd ever seen. Usual prizes on wrestling raffles include posters, show dvds, wrestling figures and future-show tickets. All very nice prizes and gives those that win a souvenir of the show they went to. EAW gave out a poster, too, but signed by WWE's Sheamus. They also gave out Bret Hart and John Cena dvds, Bret Hart show tickets and a ring-worn John Cena armband. This all felt 'big' and went along nicely with 'American' part of the EAW name.

Speaking of the EAW name...

Positive/Negative: EAW – Extreme American Wrestling (The Name)

Before I went to the show, this bothered me a little. AT the show, I understood it and it's something I think is a simple but effective selling point. When people in this country think of wrestling they think of WWE, you know, that highly successful, long-running American company. What better way to 'sell' your show by having the word 'American' in there? I'm pretty confident that if you have that word on your poster or when you promote your show, you will have just as much interest as when you advertise an American 'star' (from the WWE, TNA or wherever else).

It still bugs me that we're in the UK so it should still be 'British' wrestling, but monetarily (I like that word this weekend!) I need to shut up!

Positive: A Steel Cage Match

What a fantastic spectacle for everyone in that venue. Where else in the country do you see an actual steel cage match? And as much as some of you laugh at that, it IS a great selling point. I remember seeing on Nick's posters about a 'Steel Cage Match As Seen On TV'... if I'm a kid and I see that then I want IN.

'Ultra' Marc Massa became the new EAW Champion

Positive: Characters Done Well

One of the best things that EAW does is the characters that it presents. Yes, there are a few, generic looking, pretty boys that look angry and a few that need to get in the gym, but there were a lot of gimmicks that were pure fun and covered for other downsides.

The Prime Time Crew and Mister Monster were two that really stood out as having a few layers to them.

POSITIVE: Nick Ashberry

There are a lot of promoters and 'promoters' that have bad reputations in this country. I'm not sure what is thought of Nick Ashberry, but I really don't care. I like Nick. He's passionate about his show and seems like a genuine fan as well as wanting to put on a great family show (with a view to making a bit of money). This is clear to see in the type of show that he puts on – it's American named and themed, and that WORKS in this country. It's not 100% my cup of tea because I would rather we adopted our own identity, but it really works for him. Nick's energy throughout the show was amazing and I challenge anyone to match it. He did the ring announcing (in a very comical, American-sounding voice); he presented the show from start to finish; he was a character on the show and he kept the audience's spirits up during the interval and construction of the steel cage. It was similar to how I view Jim Smallman at PROGRESS; there is a connection with the fans that attracts you to the show. He is the promoter, the ring announcer, and your FRIEND throughout the show that encourages you to get involved and that it's ok to cheer your heart out for your favourites. I know most promoters' place is in the back, but I love that Nick is as hands-on as he is. It's his baby and he's determined to see it grow up under his watchful eye.

Results

• Free match: EAW Tag Team Championship: The Prime Time Crew (Rude Boys Taylor & Nate)(w/ Rude Boy Matt) defeated Andy Reign & Eric Phillips
• EAW Academy Champion Stealth defeated Rude Boy Matt
• Stixx & Blake defeated The Predators (Joe Connors & Paul Malen)
• Super Koji defeated Andy Poole (w/ EAW Champion Chris Tyler) by DQ
• Dumpster/Weapons match for the EAW Light-Heavyweight Championship: TK Hayward (c) defeated Mister Monster
• Steel Cage match for the EAW Heavyweight Championship: 'Ultra' Marc Massa defeated Chris Tyler (c)(w/ Andy Poole) to become the new champion

I got to speak to Nick during the interval and he says that he doesn't normally listen to the internet and the things that keyboard warriors have to say. I completely understand that. I also agree that he shouldn't because most people are negative for the sake of it. There are also far too many ass-kissers out there that really don't progress anything, either.

I hope that Nick finds this helpful, or just a little entertaining if nothing else. I want to enjoy every show that I go to but have become a right old man at times that if I don't see what I like I reach for the pen... or keyboard! It's never anything personal, just my view on the British wrestling that I see. If you know that there's something dogsh*t with what you do then I'll probably say it. If it's something THAT obvious then I won't be the only one to say it (others will probably say it more privately, though).

Keep going to shows and...

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