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Posts Tagged ‘Bao Nguyen’

New WLW Tag Team Champions – Steve Fender and Brandon Espinosa

Posted by flairwhoooooo on November 5, 2017

This past weekend at the Harley Race Wrestling Arena, Superstar Steve Fender and Brandon Espinosa defeated Kyle Roberts and Warwick Stephans to win the vacated WLW Tag-Team Championships. The new tag team Champions Fender and Espinosa were able to win the belts despite miscommunication between the two at that saw them come to near blows during several key moments of the contact .

If these two can get on the same page, they could very well hold onto these belts for a long time as both of them are two of the top wrestlers during the MWR years. Fender was one half of the first ever WLW Tag Team Champions back in 2001 with Matt Murphy. Since then he has held onto the belt with several partners throughout the years including Ace Steel, Mason Hunter, Mark Sterling, Bao Nguyen and Dangerous Derek just to name a few. Espinosa is no stranger to tag team success with partners Brandon Aarrons, Mike Sydal and Ace Hawkins.

WLW returns to Richmond, Missouri this coming Saturday. Be sure to keep up with MWR updates on the new Champions and WLW Stars.

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Meet the new Kingpin of WLW Steve Anthony-WLW Recap 1-30-2009.

Posted by flairwhoooooo on February 13, 2009

wlw
By Brian “Flair” Kelley
Photo credit:Dubray Tallman

Friday was here and I was more than ready to make my way to Richmond Missouri, to see World League Wrestling in action. They had invited us to meet with fellow wrestling fans to invite them to come too our site and sign up for a chance to win a free MWR T-shirt during their first show of 2009.

The doors opened up and the place filled up very quickly with wrestling fans, meanwhile my girlfriend went around to meet the fans and to encourage them to come to our booth and sign up. The legend himself Harley Race was at the table with autographs for the fans along with a handshake, Dan Gier announced on the PA that very shortly we would see some exciting action soon and not to forget to sign up at our booth. Former WWE Star Eugene was sitting near WLW rising star Amy Hennig, with kids and adults a like coming up to meet them. While looking at the there of them I felt as I was part of wrestling history as before me were the Past (Harley Race) the present (Eugene) and the future of Pro Wrestling ( Amy Hennig).

The show started off with two of the rising stars of the WLW, Dustin Lane and Brian Breaker. Breaker came to the ring as one half of the WLW Tag Team Champions along with Dinn T Moore. The last time I saw Breaker, I saw potential but it was obvious that he was just starting and seemed to have had a long ways to go. I had the privilege of seeing Dustin Lane in his first match at WLW against The Vietnam Phenom” Bao Nguyen and was really impressed with his athleticism and skill.

Dustin Lane and Brian Breaker start the action.

Dustin Lane and Brian Breaker start the action.

Breaker proved early in the match that his time at the Harley Race Academy and tag teaming with Dinn T Moore had paid off. Lane and Breaker went back and forth with Lane targeting Breakers left arm and Breaker countered with his power to get out of trouble when needed. Before I knew it the 15 minute time limit had expired

Brian Breaker used his power to his advantage.

Brian Breaker used his power to his advantage.

The next match was between the “Young One” Darin Waid taking on Breaker’s tag team partner the ever dangerous Dinn T Moore. The crowd at Richmond despises Dinn T Moore and showered him with chants that were not flattering. Waid started the match off using his speed to keep the Champion at bay. Dinn T took the control of the match just for a few minutes but the crowd really seemed to light the fire in Waid as there were no stopping the man.

Dinn T Moore uses mind games to start the match.

Dinn T Moore uses mind games to start the match.

Moore hit a devastating clothesline that would have stopped any other man. Moore went for a forearm shot in the corner but Waid tossed him nearly out of the ring. Moore returned the favor with a powerful right, followed up with a body block. Dinn T made the mistake of going to the top, which Waid used his speed to capitalize on using the ropes to catapult himself to hit Moore with a flying kick. Waid looked to have Moore’s number but with a quick strike into a slam, Moore went and got the 1,2,3.

Next up was a short intermission that led to the WLW Women’s Champion Stacey O’Brien defending her title against arch enemy Amy Hennig. Amy defeated Stacey briefly for the title this past fall but Stacey regained the belt on the way to becoming the first ever MWR Female Wrestler of the Year. Prior to the match Chants of Amy Hennig rang through the building.

The match started with Stacey delivering a slap to the challenger’s face which infuriated Hennig and she chased Stacey around the ring which allowed the Champion to get the upper hand for just a moment. Amy took an early advantage and worked O’Brien’s leg to perfection and had her crawling to the ropes for the break. Hennig’s name was being chanted even louder than before when the Champion was able to kick Hennig into the ropes head first. With a moment of hope, O’Brien attacked with an arsenal of moves, forearms, kicks and body slams were delivered with force. Hennig showed that she would not give up and took all the champion could give and came back to deliver some offense of her own. Then it happen, O’Brien claimed that she had a leg injury and begged the ref for a break but Hennig would have none of it saying that she had seen this one too many times and proceeded to attack, when O’Brien struck with a roll up and retain the title much to the dismay of Hennig and her fans.

Amy Hennig works the leg of Stacey O’Brien

Amy Hennig works the leg of Stacey O’Brien

What I noticed early was how much more confident Hennig was in the ring and it was obvious that O’Brien was taking the rising star more serious in this encounter. This rivalry is far from over and may be one of the most exciting feuds of the year in the Midwest in 2009.

I was excited when it was announced that the tag team Dinn T Moore and Brian Breaker would be defending their tag team titles against Waid and Lane. I had caught up with the menacing due to get their thoughts of 2009 and the tag team division and they had this to say.

I must admit after seeing how much Breaker had improved his wrestling along with more power to his arsenal, I was on the Moore and Breaker bandwagon.. Add on the fact that his tag team partner was none other than one of the most complete wrestlers in the Midwest Dinn T Moore, I was pumped up to see this tag team. A tag team I felt could lead the way in 2009.

The Richmond faithful chanted NEW CHAMPS when Waid and Lane entered the ring and all I could think was fat Chance! You can not say that Richmond is not a sharing bunch because they gave the Moore and Breaker a chant of their own “OLD CHAMPS”.

Dinn T Moore and Brian Breaker lets the fans know who they champs are!

Dinn T Moore and Brian Breaker lets the fans know who they champs are!

Before the start of the bell, the Champions ambushed their opponents. When the ref was able to force Moore back to his corner Breaker wisely powered Lane to his partner’s corner. Lane was able to withstand the early attack and make a tag for his team which allowed them to go on the offense for the first time. The Champions may have had the power but the challengers had the speed and utilized it to their advantage. This showed when Breaker bounced off the ropes and was treated to a swift dropkick. When it was time to win tag they too showed they could double team and took turns with chops in the corner.

Darin Waid shows one of his arsenal of moves.

Darin Waid shows one of the many moves in his arsenal.

With one mistake from Lane, Moore was showed his skills when he delivered a shoulder block that took the young wrestler off his feet. I thought at this moment that the titles were safe and the crowd must have sensed it to because they clapped and yelled for Lane to make the tag. Dan Gier stated that 10 minutes had expired and even with the crowed on his side, Moore and Breaker controlled the match with pure dominance…. Or so it would seem Lane was able to hit Moore with a neckbreaker which stunned him long enough to allow Lane to get the fresh Waid the tag. Waid and the crowd was on fire and the with the four men going at it at once. Moore looked to have things going their way and had slammed Lane in the middle of the ring. Moore then went to the top rope only to have Waid strike and hit him with a flying stunner off the top rope. The crowd went nuts and we did indeed have NEW CHAMPS.

During intermission Harley entered the ring to show respect by having two presentations, one was 300 to the Eagalton center to promote activities to the organization. A special donation was given to the Franklin family $500 to the cystic fibrosis foundation. Proving once again that Wrestling and the communities they come to have a close knit bond that each other share.

The main event was upon us and we would crown a new WLW Champion. Eugene had entered already entered the ring when Steve “King of the 450” Anthony came to the ring and asked Eugene for a “small favor” which was for Eugene to stay out of this match because this was Anthony’s destiny to be the Champion.

Steve Anthony ask Eugene for a favor as a friend.

Steve Anthony ask Eugene for a favor as a "friend".

Eugene was confused on what to do, stay and wrestle like the fans wanted him to or go to the back and call it a night as Anthony had wanted from his friend. Anthony got tired of waiting and attcked and that’s when Superstar Steve Fender made the save.

Anthony was feeling the pressure from Fender as Eugene was still hurt on the outside of the ring. When Anthony pleaded for a break Fender hesitated which left an opening for Anthony to kick Fender in the stomach. Anthony’s good fortune did not last long because Eugene got back in the ring to get a few laughs as Anthony’s expense, at one time riding him like a horse and patting his butt.

Eugene always takes time to ask the fans what they want.

Eugene always takes time to ask the fans what they want.

Eugene and Fender showed each other mutual respect by shaking hands before they went after each other. When Anthony did come back to the ring Fender and Eugene was ready with a double team. The problem arose when Fender went for the pin; Eugene was smart enough to make the save. Fender returned the favor when he Superkicked Eugene and then had to make the save before Anthony was able to pin the former WWE star.

Superstar Steve makes the save.

Superstar Steve makes the save.

Fender went to the top to hit Anthony with a flying head butt while Eugene was down but missed. Eugene was taking some hits from the cocky youngster when he suddenly “Hulked up”. Anthony persevered and at one point accidentally threw Eugene onto ref, which prompted the other ref to come into the ring to try to count the pin. Fender by this time had caught his second wind and hit Anthony with fierce punches and a beautiful bridge suplex. By that time a third ref, Johnny Gold had entered the ring to count the pinfall. When it looked as if Eugene was to make the pin on Anthony, Gold hit the mat a second time but when it was time for him to count to three, something was in his eye???

Eugene’s attention was distracted just for a split second, which allowed Anthony to kick Eugene into the corner and the force propelled him back to Anthony who rolled him up while Johnny Gold suddenly could count to three and did so in two seconds. That evil Johnny Gold!!!

World League Champion Steve Anthony

World League Champion Steve Anthony

2009 started off with a bang, Steve Anthony was the new World League Wrestling Champion, Dustin Lane and Darin Waid had done what I thought was impossible and defeated Dinn T Moore and Brian Breaker for the WLW Tag Team Championship. Brian Breaker has convinced me that he is one of the top rising stars not only in WLW but in the Midwest. I have no doubts that Amy Henning is a superstar in the making and treasure the opportunity to see her up close and personal before she makes it to the top of the world.

WLW is filled with a great group of young talent in the locker room and 2009 looks to be a breakout year. Join WLW in a town near you. For more information please go to the WLW please take time to check out their website at WLW-WEBSITE.

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A Reporter’s Reflections: ROH Commentary, Dec. 5

Posted by reimaginejournalism on December 14, 2008

By Kari Williams

For the second time this year, working with Missouri Wrestling Revival initiated me to the live experience of a class-act wrestling show I otherwise may not have attended. I was not sure what to expect upon arrival, but I got everything I could have asked for—and so much more.

Once the doors opened, I quickly scoped out the merchandise table and planned to splurge on ROH gear. However, I first needed to find Brian Kelley to discuss the website and this piece you are reading now. Upon finding him, I talked with the High Voltage Wrestling promoter, TNT Keny G, and saw many familiar faces—Pierre Abernathy, Evan Gelistico, Billy McNeil, Kurt Styles and Gary the Barnowl, just to name a few.

I soon made my way back to the merchandise table and proceeded to spend $50 on a t-shirt and a hoodie, where I ran into Greg Jovi, who designed the FIST t-shirts. He told me that he needed to find Steven Kennedy because Kennedy told him that he would be there with bells on. Greg brought bells for Kennedy. Haha.

Prior to the actual start of the show, there were two ‘dark’ matches (for lack of a better word). The first one put Hunter Matthews against Steve Anthony. As the bout began, Matthews told the fans, “No cat calls, please.” Then, only moments into Matthews’ entrance, a “Hannah Montana” chant started. Anthony ended up catching Matthews with a quick roll-up for the pin. Having  never been to a show before, the opening match opened my eyes to what ROH truly is—entertaining, enjoyable and filled with superb wrestling.

The next dark match set Dirty Ernie against Brandon Marino. This bout did not do as much as the first to make me become an active follower of ROH, but it did keep me intrigued. Ernie secured the win after choking Marino on the ropes early in the game and then after losing control, he quickly regained his dominance and secured victory.

As the show truly got under way, the announcement came that MsChif would not compete and that the SHIMMER title would not be defended. However, a bonus match came about as a replacement.

Kenny King wrestled Kenny Omega in a spectacular display of athleticism. King had the first big takedown, which was followed up by back and forth action into a standoff that produced applause from the captivated audience. Soon after this, King and Omega found their way to the outside, where King pummeled Omega into the guardrail. Once they moved back into the ring, King delivered a beautiful snap suplex that received respectable praise. Omega gave the match a bit of humor when he said, “You son of a B!” following a nearfall. After connecting with an enziguri kick, Omega secured victory with a roll-up.

Rhet Titus and Sal Rinauro took on Grizzly Grimwood and Bushwhacker Luke Williams in the first of many tag team matches. Grimwood and Williams played to the crowd, causing Titus and Rinauro to use that to their advantage; but they were quickly thrown out of the ring. As the match progressed, both teams took it to the limit to please the crowd. They also proved their worth and showed me what I’ve been missing out on. Titus stole the victory for his team with a roll-up where he grabbed the tights.

The bonus match took place next, pitting Tony Kozina versus Bao Nguyen. Many people seemed uninterested in the match, and I heard grumblings from those sitting around me that this was not a good replacement for the SHIMMER title match. Personally, I thought the match was fine. It could have been better, but then again it could have also been much worse. Nonetheless, Nguyen and Kozina wrestled a fairly even match, where Nguyen’s athleticism outweighed Kozina’s near the end. Nguyen suplexed Kozina into a bridge and earned himself a three count.

An insanely impressive tag team gauntlet followed, with the first two teams being Brent Albright and Eric Stevens and Irish Airborne (Jake and David Crist). Both of these teams amazed me with their skill in the ring. Albright and Stevens advanced to the second round of the tournatment, and faced Sweet & Sour’s Davey Richards and Bobby Dempsey. Richards’ intensity translated to the fans, who ate up his presence. However, everyone seemed to care more for Dempsey, who Richards intentionally kicked and pounded on. The two did work together long enough to make it to the next round as Stevens tried to use a boot that Larry Sweeney threw into the ring, the referee disualified Stevens.

The Briscoe Brothers, Jay and Mark, rushed to the ring and made their presence felt against the weakened Dempsey and Richards. Bringing additional, pure athleticism to the bout, the Briscoes astounded me with their skill, as I hade never seen them prior to this show. As cohesively as the Briscoes worked together, Dempsey and Richards seemed to fall apart at the seems, which more than likely caused their downfall. After Jay and Mark left the ring, Sweeney attacked Dempsey and slapped him right across the face, which, among other things, caused Dempsey to sulk to the back, bloody nose and all.

A brief intermission ensued, and then the match I deemed my personal favortie began—Jimmy Jacobs and Delirious versus Ace Steel and Necro Butcher. The moment that Age of the Fall’s (AoTF) music blared through the speakers, I was hooked. I had heard a lot about AoTF online and from other people, but I did not fully appreciate them until seeing witnessing their presence live. So much happened in this match, and I got so captivated by the match, that I did not write down the specifics of what happened. These four men battled in and out of the ring, eliciting an “ROH” chant and applause from the crowd. In the closing moments of the bout, as Jacobs and Delirious had Necro and Steel in a weakened state, Jacobs gave a foreign object to Delirious who contemplated using it. Daizee Haze then came to ring side and talked him out of doing so, ultimately costing them the match. Haze apologized to Jacobs who walked away in disgust; she then raised Steel and Necro’s hands. When everyone else left the ring, Delirious received an overwhelming applause.

Tyler Black took on Austin Aries in a classic match that had fans raving for more. Before the bell rang, Aries got on the mic and said that he wanted to put everything aside and have a classic match with Black—and that they did. Both men showed their strengths and gave the fans everything they asked for. Aries and Black battled inside and outside the squared circle, in a match with too many nearfalls to count. Impressive move after impressive move warranted a “This is awesome!” chant. In the end, Black established his dominance as he defeated Aries, much to the delight of the jam-packed crowd. Aries received a standing ovation for his work as Black walked victoriously to the back.

The highly anticipated main event put Claudio Castagnoli and the ROH World Champion Nigel McGuinness against Jerry Lynn and Brian Danielson. A “Best in the World” chant rose up out of the crowd as McGuinness made his way to the ring. This was simply tag team wrestling at its best. Frequent tags, cutting the ring in half, multiple near falls and an all-together great chemistry between the teams made the match fantastic. Lynn secured his team’s fate while delivering a piledriver to Castagnoli.

After the final match, I spoke with Brian Kelley and Chuck from Slamzone, who only had positive things to say about the night. The matches were spectacular, the atmosphere was almost cult-like and everything came together perfectly. Now, I know I am not an expert, but, in my humble opinion, this show proved what wrestling is all about—pure competition, incredible athleticism and quality matches every match.

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MWR Spotlight: “Vietnam Phenom” Bao Nguyen

Posted by Admin on October 14, 2008

Bao Nguyen
“I want to make wrestling my career.”

By Josh Ray
Owner-Editor
inadvertent.nerd@gmail.com

A young Bao Nguyen.

A young Bao Nguyen.

On April 25, 2008 in the hometown of Missouri Wrestling Revival, a match between Brian Breaker and “Vietnam Phenom” Bao Nguyen turned a few heads.  The apparent underdog, Bao managed to secure a victory over his larger and more experienced opponent.  I approached him after the match to tell him how impressed I was and was shocked to learn that this was only his fourth match as out of training.  The fact that he was that good in such a short time out of wrestling school resonated in my mind.

“This guy is somebody to watch, for sure,” I thought to myself.

At the time, I wasn’t the only person to take notice.  While the crowd definitely enjoyed him and the match as a whole, my wife and sister took immediate notice of the “Vietnam Phenom” as their favorite wrestler.  Out of all of the wrestlers who appeared that night, my sister wanted a picture with only one: Bao Nguyen.

My sister Becky, Vietnam Phenom Bao Nguyen, and my beautiful wife Sara.

My sister Becky, "Vietnam Phenom" Bao Nguyen, and my beautiful wife Sara.

I’ve had the opportunity to see him twice since then, and he hasn’t disappointed.  When I heard his story, it was easy to understand why he’s as good as he is at this stage in the game.  He’s not afraid of listening to others, and he’s not afraid of hard work.  His first break into the business happened due to his hard work and competitive drive.

“I started out in 2004 as a referee in Sacramento, CA for a promotion called Supreme Pro Wrestling.  After going to a few practices, I wanted to become a wrestler due to my competitive nature,” Bao said.

At the time, Bao was in college.  This didn’t stop him from pursuing a career as a professional wrestler, but it also didn’t keep him from studying hard and finishing college.  Where most young men might leave one for the other, Bao Nguyen chose to tackle and succeed at both.  He trained for a year for Supreme Pro Wrestling, before moving back home to the San Francisco Bay Area.  It was there he had his first exposure to Japan’s Pro Wrestling NOAH when he resumed his wrestling training, this time for Pro Wrestling Iron.

During this time, Bao stayed active with the Cauliflower Alley Club (CAC), a nonprofit professional wrestling organization that emphasizes friendship through pro wrestling.  The CAC puts a well-deserved focus on the wrestling legends, and that fact says even more about Bao’s character.  It was at a CAC function that he learned about Harley Race’s pro wrestling training camps that are held each year.

“I’ve known about Harley Race’s wrestling camps because I stay active with the Cauliflower Alley Club.  In 2006 I went to the camp and really enjoyed how Superstar Steve taught.  I had no doubt that I would be able to hone my skills in that atmosphere,” Bao said.

Going to that camp was fate, it seems.  Pro Wrestling Iron closed downshortly later and left the “Vietnam Phenom” without a place to train.  Once again, Bao’s desire to get better and his willingness to work shined through.  Where some might stick around the area and find just any place to train, he looked for the best place to train.

“I wanted to go somewhere where I would have more opportunities to work in Japan and for WWE.  Since Pro Wrestling Iron already had a relationship with Pro Wrestling NOAH through Donovan Morgan and Michael Modest, I wanted to go somewhere that could keep me exposed to them (NOAH).  I chose the Harley Race Wrestling Academy,” said Bao.

After choosing where he would train, he concentrated on getting there.

“I saved everything I could for seven months and took the long trip to Eldon, MO to start training,” said Bao. “I’m always trying to get better and I’m willing to learn from people who are willing to teach, so I think that has helped me develop as a wrestler.”

The Vietnam Phenom in action.

The "Vietnam Phenom" in action.

This hard work paid off recently at World League Wrestling (WLW) show.  At the end of the annual training camp that Harley Race’s conducts with Pro Wrestling NOAH, there is a big joint show that features some of the best from Pro Wrestling NOAH, WLW, and the trainees who attended the camp.  On September 19, 2008 in Eldon, MO as part of the show, Bao was rewarded by being featured in the main event tag team match.  The main event featured two reknown wrestlers from Japan, as well as the son of a pro wrestling legend.

“To tell you the truth, I was pretty surprised when they picked me to be in the main event with Takeshi Morishima against Marufuji and Steamboat Jr. (for the WLW-NOAH show on September 19, 2008).  It was definitely the highlight of my career at this point, and I worked as hard as I’ve ever worked.  I hope that I did well enough for them to offer me something,” Bao said.

While he recognizes that he doesn’t hold the magic card that can get him closer to his goal of wrestling in Japan or for WWE, he’s not afraid to put in the work needed to get there.  No get rich quick schemes for the “Vietnam Phenom”.  He’s more than happy to pay his dues and diligently work toward his goals, saying, “It’s up to NOAH as to whether or not I ever tour with them, but I’ll continue to work hard and become a total wrestler to improve those chances.”

He summed it up by adding, “Basically, I want to make wrestling my career.  That would be my ultimate goal whether it be NOAH or WWE.  I’ve just got to work hard and maintain my focus.  It will happen when I am ready.”

Tyler Cook, me, my beautiful wife Sara, and Vietnam Phenom Bao Nguyen.

Tyler Cook, me, my beautiful wife Sara, and "Vietnam Phenom" Bao Nguyen.

RELATED LINKS

Respect the Legends: Stanislaus Zbyszko
MWR September 2008 Awards
Singles Rankings (Updated Frequently)
Your Trip to Space Mountain (WLW Event in Sedalia, MO)
Amy Hennig’s Pro Wrestling Debut

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MWR September 2008 Awards

Posted by Admin on October 4, 2008

MWR September 2008 Awards

The MWR Awards Committee has grown slightly this month in an effort to spread representation around the coverage area. With that said, here are the results for the September voting:

 
September Wrestler of the Month

Hunter Matthews
[Scott County Wrestling]
[Metro East Championship Wrestling]
[Mid Pro Wrestling]

Matthews had quite possibly his best month in his pro wrestling career, becoming the first wrestler in Scott County Wrestling History to win the Quad Cities Championship on three separate occassions.  The title win came about in a grueling “I Quit” match with Dewey Dawson, a man he has been feuding with for months.  He also wrestled at Mid Pro Wrestling’s first show, defeating KC Jackson in front of 200 fans to become the first ever Nose Bleed Seats Middleweight Champion.

1st Runner Up – Ryan Cruz [3XW]
2nd Runner Up – “Vietnam Phenom” Bao Nguyen [WLW]
3rd Runner Up – Kraig Keesaman [Whiplash]

Others receiving votes: Gary Jackson, Tojo Yamamoto Jr., “Serial Thriller” Shane Rich.

 

September Tag Team of the Month

Gentlemen’s Club (Gage Octane & Mark Sterling)
[3XWrestling]

Mark Sterling, Gage Octane & Todd Countryman

Mark Sterling, Gage Octane & Todd Countryman

These two did something that seemed impossible to most 3XW fans… they ended the 20-month 3XW Tag Team Title reign of The Northstar Express, the longest in 3XW history.  What’s even more amazing is the underhanded manner in which it was done.  Being more underhanded than the Northstar Express in 3XW is tough.  The Gentlemen’s Club made it look easy.

1st Runner Up – Zero Gravity (Brett Gakiya & CJ Esparza) [SCW]
2nd Runner Up – Northstar Express (Darin Corbin & Ryan Cruz) [3XW][AAW]
3rd Runner Up – Aaron Masterson & Mad Dog McDowell [MECW]

Others receiving votes: None.


September Woman of the Month

Stacey O’Brien
[World League Wrestling]

Thats soooo Stacey O!

That's soooo Stacey O!

Stacey continues to hold it down in WLW as Ladies Champ, and was the only female in the MWR coverage area to pick up a victory in the month of September.

1st Runner Up – Amy Hennig [WLW]

Others receiving votes: None.

 
September Promotion of the Month

World League Wrestling

Harley Races World League Wrestling

Harley Race's World League Wrestling

WLW had two shows in the month of September, and both made a huge impact!  On September 4th, Bobby Lashley faced Marc Godeker and Go Shiozaki in what looked to be a handicap match at various times during the match, with Lashley picking up the victory.  The other show was the annual WLW-NOAH show which took place on September 19th.  Both were big successes

1st Runner Up – Pro Wrestling Phoenix
2nd Runner Up – Whiplash Wrestling
3rd Runner Up – Mid Pro Wrestling

 Others receiving votes: 3XWrestling.


September Personality of the Month

Gary Giaffoglione
[Pro Wrestling Phoenix]

It’s been heard over and over again in MWR conversations: “Not a nicer man can be found in Midwest pro wrestling”.  On top of Gary Giaffoglione’s friendly disposition and love of pro wrestling, he takes some of the best pictures on the Indy scene.  Don’t take our word for it.  Go check out some of his photos here.

1st Runner Up – Todd Countryman [3XW]
2nd Runner Up – Mark Bland [Absolute Wrestling Radio]
3rd Runner Up – Jewells [LWA]

Others receiving votes: None.


September Match of the Month

Kensuke Sasaki & Katsuhiko Nakajima
vs
Keith Walker & Oliver John
[World League Wrestling]
(September 19, 2008 in Eldon, MO)

This match was one of the hardest hitting and crowd pleasing matches of the entire year.  At the end of the match, Japanese wrestling legend Kensuke Sasaki got a standing ovation and his name chanted by the Eldon, MO crowd.  It was that good.

 

1st Runner Up –

Fans Bring the Weapons Match:
Chris Havius
vs
Stephen Saint
[Pro Wrestling Phoenix]
(September 20, 2008 in Council Bluffs, IA)

 

2nd Runner Up –

Cage Match for the SCW Heavyweight Title:
Shane Hollister
vs
Marek Brave
[Scott County Wrestling]
(September 12, 2008 in Davenport, IA)

 

3rd Runner Up –

Nose Bleed Seats Undisputed Heavyweight Title Match:
Mississippi Madman
vs
Bobby Houston
[Mid Pro Wrestling]
(September 27, 2008 in Decatur, IL)

 

 Others receiving votes:

Last Man Standing Match:
Kyle King
vs
JC Thunder
[Whiplash Wrestling]
(September 27, 2008 in Harveyville, KS)

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Your Trip to Space Mountain- Bobby Lashley and WLW

Posted by Admin on September 11, 2008

Your Trip to Space Mountain

By Brian “Flair” Kelley
flairwhoooooo@yahoo.com

I woke up on Saturday morning and almost decided to not attend the WLW event that evening as I would be checking them out the next weekend in Moberly. I was also concerned that I would not be able to get tickets as it may be a “sell out”, But as the morning came to a close, I couldn’t resist. My girlfriend and I left for Sedalia, Mo for W.K. Chevrolet where former WWE Superstar Bobby Lashley was to sign autographs.

While waiting in line the Noon Day Optimist Club announced that they had tickets for sale, I picked up second row tickets and was all set for the evening. Before I knew it some kids in the line were excited and yelling “He is here, Bobby Lashley is here… and he is huge!”


When I first caught sight of Bobby, the child was right, he was huge, he was all smiles and, with kids jumping up and down around him, he gave them high fives and exclaimed he was glad that they were there. He headed to the table to sign Autographs and take pictures. We took our pictures and said hello to one of my heroes, Harley Race, and headed off to supper prior to the show.


The show started off with Akiyago taking on Brian Breaker in the opening contest. Akiyago is despised by the fans and he used mind games to keep Breaker from using his power to his advantage and was able to get the win. But before he left, he couldn’t resist the urge to antagonize the fans, who were not happy that he had won.

Akiyago has Brian Breaker on the ropes.

Up next was fan favorite “The Vietnam Phenom” Bao Nguyen taking on the newcomer Dustin Lane in his wrestling debut. The match started off in a slow pace and before I know it the two wrestlers where hitting each other with exciting moves as the action went back and forth which led me to believe that this was not Lane’s first match. I was later told that in fact, this was his debut in wrestling so I witnessed history as Lane was able to get the win when he rolled up Bao with a small package. Though Lane was able to get his first victory, I am sure that Bao Nguyen will look to even the score in their next encounter. I hope to see the rematch to see these young guns go at it.

 

Dustin Lane lets Bao know he is a quick learner.

WLW at this point had an intermission and Bobby Lashley came out and took pictures inside the ring and once again he was all smiles. I enjoyed watching him interact with the fans young and old. He picked up one young child with one hand and teased that he would throw him out the ring over the top rope only to bring him back in the ring and all the while the child was smiling from ear to ear. You know that kid will be telling the story to all his friends at school on Monday morning. He played with one female fan by getting on one knee and she could not believe her eyes as her face turned red. She too would have a story to tell. To say the intermission was worth watching would be an understatement.

Prior to the match Stacey O’Brien even gives the ref Martin T a hard time.

Up next was what I like to dub the future of women’s pro wrestling: Amy Hennig taking on WLW Womens Champion Stacy O’Brien . I was fortunate to say that I was able to see Amy in her wrestling debut in Eldon and her first opponent was this same Irish troublemaker. The first match up Stacy really used Amy’s inexperience against her and at times made her look foolish in her attempt to break into the WLW Womens Title hunt.

Amy Hennig proves to Stacey O’ Brien that she may be a rookie but she will not be pushed around.

You could tell Amy had worked hard and learned from her mistakes in her first encounter and was giving Stacey fits throughout the match. Though Amy had improved immensely since the first time they met, Stacy was always one step ahead of the one who she sarcastically calls “Little Miss Perfect”. Stacey seized the opportunity with the ref out of position; she put her feet on the ropes to get the pin on Amy. As Stacy would say ” That is soooo Stacey O”.

There is no doubt that Amy is WWE bound but I would be shocked if Stacy wasn’t there to greet her. Amy will get another shot for the WLW Women’s champion this weekend as she will face off once again in Moberly,MO on September 13, 2008. It is a match that I highly recommend you come and check out.

The next match up would feature two of the most charismatic wrestlers on the WLW roster Dinn T Moore and Michael Strider. Dinn T Moore has floundered in the WLW since his departure with Brandon Tatum and that may have attributed to him just barely missing the Missouri Wrestling Revival Top 100. Make no mistake about it, there are few in the Midwest that can get under the fans’ and wrestlers’ skin like the former WLW Tag Team Champion. He has the talent to win any match he is a part of.

On the other side of the ring you had one of the hardest hitting wrestlers in the Midwest. Strider has taken on some of the best in the business and really can work a crowd to his advantage. This would be a very interesting match as both men look to move up the ladder to the WLW Heavyweight Title currently held by “Dangerous” Derek McQuinn.

Dinn T Moore shows that the heavyweights in the Midwest can fly as well, as he goes up top to hit Michael Strider with a big move.

At first, Strider got the upper hand on Moore to start the match and as Moore regrouped outside the ring the fans chanted “chicken”. Strider urged him to return to the ring for a beating and when Moore returned, he withstood some more punishment from Strider. With one mistake from Strider, though, Dinn T put the heat on Strider – knocking him down with one big move after another. Strider continued to get up and each man did not give an inch. The fans were cheering on Strider for the bad guys have won all the matches in these evening to the fans dismay and Strider was there last chance to celebrate, Dinn T Moore though had other plans and was able to get the win this evening with a roll up along with the tights pulled ,as he left the ring, Dinn T bragged to the fans know that he is among the WLW elite. The fans last hope for happiness would be Bobby Lashley.

In the end what promised to be a hard hitting match lived up to the expectations, with another future battle between these two foes a must see.

The Main event would be none other that a 3 way match with Bobby Lashley, NOAH’S Go Shiozaki and one half of the current WLW Tag Team Champions Marc Godeker.

The wild card in this match would be Godeker, Godeker and his tag team partner Steve Anthony have the skills that is reminiscent of a great tag team that went by the name of “The Steiner Brothers” in their prime, but unfortunately Steve Anthony has been healing from an injury due to a match earlier this year so Marc has had to go out solo for the time being. How would Marc be able to respond to working with two of the best in the business? We were about to find out.

 

Bobby Lashley enters the WLW ring for the very first time.

The crowd was like mini WWE with the crowd going nuts when Lashley hit the ring with the crowd giving no doubt to who their favorite was, Lashley’s two opponents must have came up with a game plan prior to the match as they worked together to start the match, but Lashley was in World Championship form and was overpowering two wrestlers who are no lightweights themselves and then something happened… Lashley slammed Shiozaki hard onto the mat and when Shiozaki cried out in pain and reaching for his leg, help came from the WLW staff as they rushed to assist the Japanese Superstar. Lashley went to assist Shiozaki with Godeker outside the ring and, with Lashleys guard down, Shiozaki showed his true colors and attacked him as Godeker quickly entering the ring to assist him. The two wrestlers who each come from a different background had one thing in common and that was to get a win off the former ECW Champion but when it came to the time for each of them to get the pinfall on him, they broke up the count before the other one could get the win.

A perfect ambush from Go Shiozaki.

This was a very exciting match as the crowd was rallying Lashley to get back on the offensive. When Lashley would get the edge, Godeker and Shiozaki would stop the momentum and vice versa. It looked to be a shocking ending to Lashley’s WLW debut but when the two new friends had a disagreement, Lashley struck and overwhelmed them with power and speed and in the blink of an eye Lashley and the crowd were as one when he was able to pin Godeker for the 1-2-3. Though they were unsuccessful, Go Shiozaki and Godeker shook Lashley’s hands out of respect for such a great match.

During the main event Marc Godeker proved he was more than capable of hanging with some of the best in the business.

The question I had on whether or not Godeker would be able to hang with the two Superstars was answered with a resounding YES, as he more than held his own in one of the most exciting matches in WLW history. A match that will go on in history in WLW along with, Derek Stone’s battles with the great One Man Gang, Kenta Kobashi taking on Wade Chism and when a young Trevor Rhodes defeated Rick Steiner and Wade Chism in a Three-way match to win the WLW Heavyweight Title.

Before the night was over Bobby asked for the microphone. With Lashley’s speech and his actions throughout the day, he made me a fan of his for life. He stated that he had a passion for the sport and he missed the fans, he said that he does what he loves, not for the money as he has plenty of that, He also said that he has a desire to be back on TV soon. He encouraged any fans that saw him on the street to not be shy and come up to him and shake his hand and introduce themselves. He said that he doesn’t take very many independent bookings but when a WWE Hall of Farmer calls you and tells you to work a show, you listen. He thanked not only Harley, but his wife BJ for the opportunity to work with WLW and to be close to the fans once again.

Because I took the drive to Sedalia I was able to meet one of the most impressive wrestlers in person that I have ever seen, and quite frankly is one of the few that is better than advertised. Bobby Lashley has all the tools to be on top of the sport and I am amazed that TNA has not jumped on him as he could really be the one guy who they could sign that could make a difference in closing the gap between the two organizations.

I hope to see you at an independent show soon and, till next time, drive carefully, take care of yourself, and don’t forget to check out Missouri Wrestling Revival.

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Amy Hennig’s Pro Wrestling Debut

Posted by Admin on August 24, 2008

So Close to Doing the Impossible
Amy Hennig’s Pro Wrestling Debut and WLW Results

by Joshua Ray
Owner-Editor
inadvertent.nerd@gmail.com

You would think that a guy who lives an hour away from World League Wrestling in Eldon, MO would make it to a WLW show more often, but alas that hasn’t been the case. After attending my first Eldon WLW show on July 26, 2008, that is definitely changing.

WLW presented a great show at the Eldon Community Center, right next to the old Harley Race Wrestling Academy, on July 26, 2008. The crowd was loud (more on that later) and the wrestlers gave it their all. You can’t ask for anything more!

Earlier in the day I had the opportunity to sit with my good friend Brian “Flair” Kelley and his girlfriend at the Eager Beaver in Eldon as we waited for Eugene to arrive for an autograph signing. My wife accompanied me to Eldon that day, and the four of us had a great visit. I’ll tell you right now, the burgers at the Eager Beaver were pretty good.

Another enjoyable part of the time at the Eager Beaver was getting to chat with Harley and BJ Race for fifteen or twenty minutes about wrestling. I first talked to the Race family in April in my hometown of Lebanon, MO and even though it was a great event and I had a good talk with BJ, I was worried that I might have made a bad impression on Harley. Before writing this, only my wife really knew about that fact. I was very impressed with Harley Race and his genuinely kind and humble personality. I was just concerned about I came off. Everyday is a learning experience and you should always strive to learn from your mistakes, but life is too short to learn exclusively from your own mistakes and I definitely didn’t want April’s interactions with him to be on that list of mistakes I was forced to learn from.

My concerns were put to rest when I chatted with both about WLW’s upcoming training camp with Pro Wrestling NOAH September 15th through the 18th as well as wrestlers that I thought they should keep their eye on. My opinion is worth the same as sand is in Iraq (I’m still digging some of that sand out of crevices, but I digress), but I appreciated him listening and responding to what I had to say.

Eugene arrived, but Brian and I were more content to chat and watch Eugene interact with the young kids to harass him about an interview. One classic exchange between Eugene and a boy went like this:

Kid: You’re my favorite wrestler, Eugene.

Eugene: Well why are you wearing a John Cena shirt, then?

That one got a loud reaction from everybody in the Eager Beaver. Of course Eugene still graciously gave the boy an autograph. I have no doubt that this young boy will remember that conversation for the rest of his life, and that is what pro wrestling is all about. This is why I love it so much.

My group left the Eager Beaver and had some extra time on our hands, so BJ was kind enough to let us tour their brand new facility. It is located right next to the restaurant. The highlight for me was Harley Race’s office. He had the old Central States Championship and his old NWA Heavyweight Title on display. To me, those things are awe inspiring.

Now is the time for me to poke a little fun at my buddy Brian. He knows he messed up, plus even though he’s my friend I really don’t like him very much. While BJ Race was giving us a tour, Brian asked her how she felt when Harley won the NWA Heavyweight Title. Well, back when he won that belt, she didn’t know he even existed! They were married years later. She still answered him, verifying this fact, but I still thought it was funny since I know he knew that already. That’s Brian for you, though. He asks the hard questions… the really hard questions… as in the questions that are impossible to answer. It’s okay, though… later in the evening during Eugene’s first match, I yelled Eric instead of Eugene for some reason. Classic.

I still didn’t corner Eugene for a quick interview. One of these days I’ll learn to do my job. Hopefully I will have another opportunity. I was too busy taking in the new facility to think about such trivial things as doing what I’m supposed to. Next you’ll be asking me to actually watch a wrestling match or something.

I was impressed with the Eldon Community Center when we arrived there for the show. It was large for the size of the town, and very clean. Michael Strider, Tyler Cook, and Domino Rivera arrived and said hello to Brian and me. I didn’t know what the lineup was going to be for the night, but I was personally hoping for Domino Rivera to make it onto the show. I think the guy is talented and deserves more recognition than he currently receives. A match I watched recently between him and Derek Stone was good, and he’s been working great matches for Central States Wrestling over the past year as well.

Once in the building, my main complaint was that the merchandise was hard to get access to. Over the course of the night I was able to chat with Tyler Cook and Bao Nguyen, both of which are becoming favorites of mine, but it was hard to squeeze up to the tables and it always felt as if I was in somebody’s way.

The first match was “Vietnam Phenom” Bao Nguyen vs Akiyago. Akiyago received a lot of negative attention from the crowd and was hit with the first of too many “chicken” chants, led by the guy sitting right next to me. I love to hassle guys as much as the next person, but I try to come up with more to insult them than just “chicken”. Akiyago defeated “Vietnam Phenom” Bao Nguyen by pinfall, using the ropes for leverage. Martin T was the ref, so of course I gave him a hard time. Martin is a great guy and has humored me on many occasions away from the ring, but he has a tendency to call the match in a way that makes my favorite wrestlers lose. Not cool.

I’m not sure, but I believe the next match was Tyler Cook vs Brian Breaker. I think that Breaker is a great wrestler and Tyler Cook is one of the brightest prospects out there, but it seemed in spots that they had a hard time against each other. Cook flirted with Brian’s girlfriend and my wife entirely too much, making me feel guilty that I hadn’t rubbed baby oil all over my body or tanned recently, but I feel I’m sexy enough without all of the added benefits. Cook managed to pin Breaker, so I guessed I’d better leave him alone. Lord knows that he received enough “tighty whitey chicken” chants to last a lifetime. Oh well, at least they added two words to the first matches “chicken” chants. Who am I to complain?

Next up was Michael Strider vs Marc Godeker. Godeker wrestled a good match and is really a talented guy. I need to make it a point to chat with him at the next show I make it to. Hopefully his tag team partner, Steve Anthony, will be recovered from his broken leg and I can see them in tag team action. Even thought Strider was blatantly cheating, I couldn’t help but cheer him on. I think I was the only one… and since Martin T was the ref again for this match, he made sure that Strider lost. I’ll bring some of my basic training birth control glasses for him next time around. Maybe then he can call the match the way I want it called. I’m a paying fan. I should get what I want.

I didn’t know the next match would be taking place, but I didn’t complain. It would see the pro wrestling debut of Amy Hennig. Her first match wasn’t going to be easy, though, as she was given the unenviable task of facing the WLW Ladies Champion, Stacey O’Brien. Amy Hennig is one of the number one prospects for the Midwest, but after that match I want to be sure to tell you that it isn’t simply because her father was “Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig or her grandfather was Larry “The Axe” Hennig. That would be selling Amy short. She definitely has the tools to make a name for herself without the last name attached. In this particular match, however, she came up short. O’Brien is a talented veteran and one of the best in the Midwest right now. She used it all to her advantage and retained her title.

It is important to note that there was a chant throughout the crowd during this match that I felt was inappropriate. In my personal opinion, some individuals forget that we are not the close friends of a professional wrestler and should not act as such when in the crowd. A chant of “Do it for your Dad” started through the crowd and was very uncomfortable for me to hear. Ms. Hennig did an excellent job of acknowledging the chant and being gracious, but the fact of the matter was that it isn’t really something that should have been chanted during a wrestling match. I can’t speak for Amy as I do not know her personally, but talking with Brian after the evening concluded confirmed my feelings. Brian approached me and said that he felt embarrassed to be a wrestling fan with that chant going. Enough about that, though.

Things were about to liven up a bit, as a six man tag match was about to get under way. WLW Heavyweight Champion “Dangerous” Derek McQuinn, Dinn T Moore and Michael Strider knew that they were supposed to face former WWE star Eugene and the WLW Tag Team Champions. Unfortunately Marc Godeker’s tag team partner, Steve Anthony, was on the injured list for what looked to be a broken leg. Godeker came out with a microphone and told the men standing in the ring that he had a new partner. This partner was a man whom Derek McQuinn hadn’t beaten for the title… Keith Walker!

Walker was more than up for the challenge and the team of him, Eugene and Godeker frustrated their opponents for most of the match, but in the end fell victim to underhanded tactics. Derek, Strider and Moore picked up the win.

The end of the evening featured a battle royal. Ten men got in the ring to do battle and possibly earn the right for a Heavyweight Title shot in the near future. Brian Breaker, Tyler Cook, Bao Nguyen, Akiyavo and others entered the ring, but the last three were down to Michael Strider, Eugene and Dinn T Moore. The odds seemed stacked against the lovable Eugene. Amazingly enough he made it out as the victor!

It was a great night of action at the Eldon Community Center! I was happy to visit with Brian and see some terrific wrestling only an hour from my home.

Next up for World League Wrestling is a big Sedalia, MO show on September 6, 2008 featuring Wrestlemania 24’s hero Bobby Lashley! One week later World League Wrestling and Pro Wrestling NOAH join forces for a very promising training camp. Pro wrestling legend and current World Wrestling Entertainment agent Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat will be in attendance on behalf of the WWE. More information can be found by going to http://www.harleyrace.com/.

I hope that you have enjoyed my personal reflection on WLW’s July 26, 2008 show in Eldon, MO. I encourage you to go to one in your area or support your local independent wrestling promotion. Everyone wants options over the current WWE product, but it is up to you to make those alternatives successful!

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MWR Event Report: WLW on April 25, 2008

Posted by Admin on April 27, 2008

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

by Joshua Ray

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Superstar Steve vs Marc Godeker

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

 

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


Brian Breaker vs “The Vietnam Phenom” Bao Nguyen

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

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


Darin Waid vs Dinn T Moore

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

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



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


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

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

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


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

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

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

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


Harley Race –
A Class Act

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

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

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

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


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



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



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

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

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

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

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


My Final Thoughts –

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

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