Posts Tagged ‘Dory Funk Jr.’
SICW Wrestling Explosion Bruiser Brody & Stan Hansen vs Dory Funk Jr. & Giant Baba; Waco vs Keith Smith Jr
Posted by flairwhoooooo on March 19, 2015
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged: Bruiser Brody, Dory Funk Jr., Giant Baba, Keith Smith Jr, SICW Wrestling Explosion, Stan Hansen, Waco | Leave a Comment »
Adam Pearce offers an open contract for the NWA World title in Glen Carbon, Illinois on April 6th!!
Posted by flairwhoooooo on January 29, 2012
By Brian Kelley
Adam Pearce is a 4-Time and current National Wrestling Alliance Worlds Heavyweight Champion.
Missouri Wrestling Revival was on hand once again for an historic weekend in the wrestling as the NWA Worlds Heavyweight champion Adam Pearce defended his title.
First it was in Des Moines, Iowa for 3XWrestling as Pearce looked to have lost the prestigious title to “The Belt Collector” Jeremy Wyatt. For more details on the very controversial match click here to see how “Scrap Iron” Adam Pearce was able to leave Des Moines with his belt still around his waist.
The next night we traveled to Council Bluffs , Iowa to Magnum Pro Wrestling as hometown favorite “Babyface” Tony Cortez wrestled quite possibly the match of his life as his fans cheered him on. We will have a full recap of the match along with photos of the two warriors in action later this week at MWR.
Till then I do have to let you know that Pearce was able to retain the NWA World title, but his trips to the Midwest have been nothing short of near disasters each time. Prior to this weekend he had been to battle not once but twice with the former NWA Central States Champion and Metro Pro Champion Michael Strider. On each occasion, Strider left a lasting impression on the Worlds Champion with a war that the fans in Kansas City is still talking about today.
Not since Ric Flair has there been such an active NWA Worlds Champion and Adam Pearce is not backing down from no one. We received this video with a major announcement from the NWA Worlds Champion.
There you have it wrestling fans, the NWA Worlds Championship will be defended in Glen Carbon Illinois, on April 6th at NWA Dynamo Pro Wrestling, the same area that champions like Lou Thesz, Harley Race, Ric Flair, Dory Funk Jr., Gene” Kiniski and Pat O’Conner defended the title.
Pearce is now in his fourth title reign, and is better than ever. His experience, confidence and talent level is spectacular. We have heard reports that the contract has been signed, and as soon as we can verify the rumors we will let you know just exactly will have that golden opportunity to go down in the history books as a National Wrestling Alliance Worlds Heavyweight Champion.
Mark your calendars, fans in the St Louis area, the NWA Title returns on April 6th, 2012.
Don’t miss it.
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged: "Babyface" Tony Cortez, 3XWrestling, Dory Funk Jr., Gene Kiniski, Harley Race, jeremy wyatt, Lou Thesz, Magnum Pro Wrestling, Metro Pro Champion Michael Strider, michael strider, Missouri Wrestling Revival, NWA, NWA Central States Champion, NWA Worlds Heavyweight champion, Pat O’Conner, Ric Flair | Leave a Comment »
Is NWA World Champion Adam Pearce’s “Last Ride” tour about to come to a screeching halt due to “The Belt Collector” Jeremy Wyatt?
Posted by flairwhoooooo on January 16, 2012
- NWA World Champion Adam Pearce’s t-shirt as he makes his world tour.
By Brian Kelley
The prestigious NWA World title returns to where it all began as the NWA World Champion Adam Pearce comes to Des Moines, Iowa on January 27th in action at the 2-time MWR promotion of the Year 3XWrestling.
Adam Pearce has been the NWA World Champion since July 31st when he won the NWA World Heavyweight Championship for the fourth time by defeating Chance Prophet, Jimmy Rave and Shaun Tempers in a four-way match to win the vacant title.
It’s a shame that Pearce, a veteran of the sport for over 16 years has never received the just do that the man of his talents deserves. While the NWA title and the organization thrived for years under the management of the likes of Sam Muchnick, times have changed and the NWA has seen dark days for the type of wrestling that made me a fan of the sport.
With his years of experience in the ring and a desire to bring back the glory of the NWA World Title Adam Pearce has embarked on what he calls his “Last Ride tour”.
His last trip to the Midwest was memorable to say the least as he made his way to Kansas City for Metro Pro Wrestling. The Challenger was Michael Strider, the setting a packed house at the Turner Rec Center on November 5th, 2011.
Steven J Girthy and NWA Central States Champion Jeremy Wyatt make their claim for the NWA World title. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
Earlier in the night at Metro Pro Wrestling, Jeremy Wyatt and his manager Steven J Girthy would let the fans know that it was he who deserved a match against Adam Pearce. Bringing to the ring Wyatt read the hype surrounding him in the year 2011 including the KC Star where they ranked him the #1 wrestler in Kansas City and copies of the MWR article “Does Steven J Girthy have Jeremy Wyatt poised to become the NWA Champion of the World on Nov 5th at Metro Pro Wrestling ?”
Yet, it would be a classic matchup in the main event as Strider looked to have earned his boyhood dream to become the NWA World Champion when he pinned Pearce as referee Michael Crase Jr. counted 1-2-3.
The fans were ecstatic to see Michael Strider go for the NWA title in November at Metro Pro Wrestling. (Photo Credit Bill Smith)
Strider look to land the big move that would give the former NWA Central States champion his dream to become the NWA World Champion. (Photo Credit Bill Smith)
Strider the NWA World Champion??? (Photo Credit Bill Smith)
Matt Murphy, then the MPW comish goaded Strider to continue the match due to Pearce’s feet to be supposedly under the ropes. (Photo Credit Bill Smith)
While Strider went to celebrate with his fans and father, out to the ring came MPW commissioner Matt Murphy. Murphy claimed that Pearce’s feet were on the bottom of the ropes as Crase Jr. made the final third count to the mat.
Murphy on the mic taunted Strider stating that “You don’t want to win the title like that; you want to be a man and win it like a Champion.”
Strider unwisely would make the decision to not take the title that way and agreed to have the match continue. It would be minutes later that Pearce would benefit a little assistance from Murphy when he tripped Strider, allowing Pearce to strike and use a roll up with his feet on the ropes to retain the title.
The next day I would travel to Collinsville, Illinois to cover Ring of Honor where fans came up to me, asking if in fact Michael Strider had become the NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion as they had seen on the NWA website, then was deleted as the NWA webmaster caught word of what had occurred. Unfortunately, I had to deliver the bad news that Pearce along with Murphy had stolen the Worlds Championship from the former NWA Central States Champion Strider.
Little did we know how someone’s missed opportunities would allow Wyatt to get his wish at the NWA world title.
Fast forward to the final show of the year at 3Xrestling on December 30th. 3XWrestling Champion Jeremy Wyatt loses a close match against Mark Sterling after the “Iron Man” used the ringside bell to help Sterling began his first 3XWrestling title reign.
In the locker room, 3XWrestling camera’s captured Todd Countryman offering Sterling the contract. Let’s watch this once more to see how Wyatt and not Sterling received this dream match against the World Champion Adam Pearce.
So mark your calendars, ask for the day off, and make your way to Des Moines, Iowa at ALL PLAY as the Champion of the World Adam Pearce comes to defend his title against the 2-time 3XW Champion Wyatt. Wyatt is currently the NWA Central States Champion and only the 3rd man in the history of the NWA to hold both the NWA Central States and the NWA Missouri title (He did this last year, Harley Race and Bob Orton being the other two men) Jeremy Wyatt.
Only the third man to hold the NWA Central States and Missouri Championship at the same time, Jeremy Wyatt(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
Though Adam Pearce used some underhand tactics to defeat Strider at Metro Pro Wrestling, make no doubt about it that he can defeat Wyatt in many many ways. Pearce in the past has successfully defended the NWA World Heavyweight Championship against Bryan Danielson (WWE’S Daniel Bryan, the reigning World Heavyweight Champion) and Danielson is just one name on a list of victims.
From the Apr '09 edition of Pro Wrestling Illustrated; Pearce bludgeons perhaps his greatest opponent, a bloody Brent Albright, in New York City.
Pearce brings the ring an old school high impact attack, standing 6’2, 245 pounds he will unleash a fury of moves including the Figure four leglock, Flying fist drop, and the Middle-rope elbow drop setting his opponents up for The Rack Bomb (Backbreaker rack dropped into a powerbomb) or the vicious Jumping piledriver to retain the title.
Quite honestly, after hours of studying tape of Pearce in action, you can see many of his opponents in fear of those finishers from the start of the match.
Pearce will have to beware of the crossface finisher from Wyatt. Many matches and titles have been won via this feared move in the Midwest for “The Belt Collector” Jeremy Wyatt(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
One man who will not have fear in his eyes is the “The Belt Collector” Jeremy Wyatt. Wyatt considered by many to be the best wrestler in the Midwest, has been dying for this opportunity to make a name for himself. He knows that opportunities likes these are very rare for wrestlers in the area. Quite possibly the most hated man in the Midwest, 3XWrestling fans have come to love him for his multiple matches of the year and giving a 110% during every match.
Wyatt can strike from anywhere!!!(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
Wyatt has many of the fans scattering for safety as he stalks Gage Octane. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
Opponents have to be concerned about going to the mat as Wyatt is a student of the game and is scary to defend against. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
Devin Carter goes flying from a right hook from Wyatt….Where Wyatt lacks in size he makes up with the knowledge of when and where to deliver the blow.(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
Wyatt has successfully defended his NWA Central States championship against arch rival and NWA Kansas champ Tyler Cook. In less than two weeks he goes for the NWA WORLD TITLE!!!(Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
Wyatt most likely will be the first to tell you he is not doing this for the fans, yet he is the fans best chance to bring back the NWA Worlds title back home to the Midwest.
Adam Pearce has been the heart of the NWA since his first NWA World title reign September 1st, 2007 when he defeated Brent Albright in the finals of the vacated NWA tournament. Here Pearce is on set of NWA Wrestling Showcase talking 'rasslin' with David Marquez. (Photo credit Shane Kidder.)
Is Pearce making a mistake as he makes good on his promise to “GIVE BACK to a deserving industry that has given me 16+ years of experiences that I’ll cherish forever.”
Onlu the kids are brave (naive)enough to talk back to the champ. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
Pearce has been wise in the past to align himself with men who can assist him in keeping his beloved gold, here he celebrates with the then MPW Champion Derek Stone and Matt Murphy. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
Pearce, a fighting champion will be around the world in Oberhausen, Germany defending the title a week prior to his return to the Midwest. Fans in Iowa can prepare for a double shot starting off with match against Wyatt at 3XW then heading to Council Bluffs, Iowa for Magnum Pro Wrestling to take on “ Babyface” Tony Cortez the very next night.
With one Lighting Spiral from Wyatt on January 27th at 3XWrestling, the NWA president Robert Trobich and Magnum Pro may be scrambling late Friday night to come up with a plan to resign a rematch against the NEW NWA World Champion Jeremy Wyatt and Adam Pearce immediately.
When it is all said and done, I want the NWA and Adam Pearce don’t say that Missouri Wrestling Revival didn’t try to warn you of “The Belt Collector”.
Great NWA world title moments in the Midwest.
April 3, 1908-Frank Gotch defeats George Hackenschmidt to become the world champion in Chicago, Illinois.
April 19, 1917 Earl Caddock defeated Joe Stecher to become the world champion in Omaha, Nebraska.
Earl Caddock was not only a world champion but also enlisted in the Army to serve our country. Fans be sure to pick up the new book from Mike Chapman called Caddock “Walnut’s Wrestling Wonder” on one of the best wrestlers to ever come from the Midwest. For more info on how to purchase the book click here.
March 3, 1922 Ed “Strangler” Lewis defeated Stanislaus Zbyszko to become the world champion in Wichita, Kansas.
Here is a great photo of two of the most powerful, respected and important men in the history of wrestling, Sam Muchnick and Lou Thesz.
December 29, 1937 Lou Thesz defeats Everett Marshall in the first of his six NWA world titles in ST Louis, Missouri.
June 30, 1961 Buddy Rogers defeats Pat O’Connor to win his first NWA world title in Chicago Illinois.
I love this photo of Harley Race. Arguably the greatest NWA World champion of all time.
May 24, 1973 Harley Race defeats Dory Funk Jr. to win first of 8 NWA world titles in Kansas City, Missouri. Match named Pro Wrestling Illustrated match of the year.
Ric Flair would capture his first NWA World title right here in the Midwest in what many called an upset at the time.
September 17, 1981 Ric Flair defeats Dusty Rhodes to win first of 9 NWA world titles in Kansas City, Missouri.
June 10, 1983 Harley Race defeats Ric Flair for the NWA world title to set up Starcade. Match named Pro Wrestling Illustrated match of the year.
February 20, 1989 Ricky Steamboat defeat Ric Flair to capture the NWA world title in Chicago, Illinois
January 27th 2012 Jeremy Wyatt ???? Adam Pearce Des Moines, Iowa
Information of the NWA world title courtesy of the 16th edition of the PWI Wrestling Almanac.
Could Jeremy Wyatt be defending the NWA WORLD TITLE at these MWR Promotions after January 27th?
MWR fans for a great source of the NWA check out the Alliance-Wrestling.com here.
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged: "Babyface" Tony Cortez, 3XW, 3XWrestling, Adam Pearce, ALL PLAY, Alliance-Wrestling.com, Bob Orton, Bryan Danielson, Buddy Rogers, Chance Prophet, Daniel Bryan, Dory Funk Jr., Dusty Rhodes, Earl Caddock, Ed "Strangler" Lewis, Everett Marshall, Frank Gotch, Georg Hackenschmidt, George Hackenschmidt, Harley Race, jeremy wyatt, Jimmy Rave, Joe Stecher, KC STAR, Last Ride tour, Lou Thesz, Magnum Pro Wrestling, mark sterling, Matt Murphy, Michael Crase jr, michael strider, Mike Chapman, Missouri Wrestling Revival, MWR, NWA, NWA president Robert Trobich, Pat O'Connor, Pro Wrestling Illustrated, PWI Wrestling Almanac, Ric Flair, Ricky Steamboat, Ring of Honor, Sam Muchnick, Shaun Tempers, Stanislaus Zbyszko, Starcade, Steven J Girthy, Todd Countryman | Leave a Comment »
Ron Powers’ reign of terror continues!!
Posted by flairwhoooooo on August 9, 2011
By Brian Kelley
Ron Powers in 2011 has been big, bad and just plain mean. To start the year he would turn on his best friend Danny Boy Hawkins giving him a beat down that was hard to watch. He would follow that up by taking Danny Boy’s Classic Wrestling Championship title while ending his career.
He was just getting started, after taking out Danny Boy he has set his sights on MMWA-SICW promoter Herb Simmons. When Simmons brought in Cowboy Bob Orton, Ted Dibiase and Dory Funk Jr so that the fans could have a chance to meet some of the all-time greats, Ron Powers in some demented way took offense to that.
In an odd pairing to say the least, Sean Vincent, the cocky and brash Canadian has been one of Powers henchmen in all of his evil deeds. Powers jealousy and rage has not only been targeted towards the legends but also newcomer LaMarcus Clinton who the fans have quickly gotten behind. Powers would challenge the high flying youngster to a match. Clinton was quickly put on the spot against one of the best ever in the Midwest in his very first year. The weight, the experience and brute strength of Powers would be too much for Clinton as Powers would get the win….but after the bell was rung; Powers continued to attack Clinton thus forcing the ref to reverse the decision in favor of the young star Clinton.
Last month in East Carondelet, Power’s ego would be front and center once again when he challenged anyone to an arm wrestling match. A MMWA-SICW security employee came out but stood no chance of beating power. Out came wrestler Pete Madden who gave it his all but quickly fell to the monster Powers when out of the back came young Chris Hargas.
Hargas one of the young studs of MMWA-SICW was fired up but not as angry as the champ seem to be as he looked on the other side of the table knowing that Hargas was in awesome shape. After several moments of stalling Powers and Hargas sat down to decide who the top arm wrestler was. At first it looked like another win for Powers but Hargas fought and never gave up until it looked as if he had Powers beat. Yet before MMWA-SICW Commissioner Keith Smith could call the victoryPowers had snapped.
Brutally attacking Hargas with chair shot after chair shot while Sean Vincent antagonized and assisted the champ. Powers quickly sent a message to Hargas that he was not amused.
Later that night during a CAC Championship match between Ron Powers and Chaz Wesson, Hargas had regrouped and though you could see he was in pain, was fired up coming through the door and after Powers. The locker room had to be emptied to separate the two and regain peace.
Ron Powers lifts Chaz Wesson with ease. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
Keith Smith tries to protect Hargas.
Check out the fans in the next two photos who are in shock and some that are enraged at the actions of Ron Powers . (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
That leaves us to this month; Chris Hargas is set up to team up with Chaz Wesson to take on Ron Powers and Sean Vincent.
We caught up with Ron Powers and Sean Vincent moments after Hargas and Powers were separated and they had this to say.
MMWA-SICW returns August 20th in East Carondelt with a co-main event featuring two of the very best in the country when Gary Jackson meets Mark Sterling.
Get your tickets and come out of the heat into the AC at MMWA-SICW in East Carondelet.
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged: Chris Hargas, Classic Wrestling Championship, Cowboy" Bob Orton, Danny Boy Hawkins, Dory Funk Jr., Gary Jackson, Herb Simmons, Keith Smith, LaMarcus Clinton, mark sterling, Missouri Wrestling Revival, MMWA-SICW, MWR, Pete Madden, Ron Powers, Sean Vincent, Ted Dibiase | 1 Comment »
Cloverleaf Radio’s Jimmy Falcon interviews Dory Funk JR
Posted by flairwhoooooo on July 20, 2011
The years have passed by for Dory Funk Jr. and he may look older but he still has the “IT” factor. After a great six man, two out of three falls match against Ron Powers, Sean Vincent and Kevin X fan favorite Danny Boy joined Funk Jr.s partners Gary Jackson and Chaz Wesson in celebration for their victory. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)
Dory Funk Jr. Hits Cloverleaf Radio’s Long List of Guests after A Wonderful Interview where he covered his Start in Pro Wrestling, His NWA Title Match with Gene Kiniski (And The 4 Years That Followed), His WWE Hall of Fame Induction, Legends of Wrestling & Smackdown Vs. Raw Video Game, His WWF Career, His Recent St. Louis Event with MMWA-SICW & More.
To listen to the interview click here.
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged: Dory Funk Jr., Gene Kiniski, Missouri Wrestling Revival, MMWA-SICW, MWR, NWA, WWE | Leave a Comment »
Ron Powers shoots on the MWR,the Midwest and promoter Herb Simmons.
Posted by flairwhoooooo on June 7, 2011
Ron Powers has been on a path of destruction since the first of this year. * Photo Credit Brian Kelley*
Wow, whomever wrote this has a big misunderstanding of what I am about.
Has anyone from this site ever interview me about any of this?
I’ll answer that…..NO! You people interview the fans, the promotors, and all the guys in the locker room, who all have tall aspirations of going to the big show. This is usually followed by a handshake or a hug. Do you want to know the truth? Like Jack said,”You can’t handle the truth”. The truth is, this was, at one time, the most brutal profession to be in. The toll it would take on your body and mind was unimagineable. Keeping injuries a secret, keeping your head on a swivel, and the lack of trust with the bookers and talent, usually, was a day to day thing.
I was, as Terry Taylor described, “wrestlings best kept secret”.
World Championship Wrestling, World Wrestling Federation, and numerous companies in Japan, all wanted me on their roster. I brought Lex (Luger)to the point of collapsing after a match at a house show. The phone would not stop ringing. I knocked out the “Great Muta” in Japan. After that tour, I almost had to change my phone number. However, I had the ability to do, what alot of wrestlers couldn’t do, say NO. I was married with kids and had a great job. I knew I couldn’t keep both sides happy, so I chose family. I would work spots for all of them periodically, but if you don’t sell your soul to Them, you were just a drone. This is where I was different. I wouldn’t sell out. Bruiser Brody always told me to take what I want, and leave be, what I don’t. I’ve followed that advice since 1987.
Gary Jackson is no light weight himself but here he struggles from the strength of Ron Powers * Photo Credit Brian Kelley*
I might have aged, I might be 15Lbs heavier than when I retired in 2004, but I can still do my job better than anyone else, today. You see what I want to show you. You hear what I want to tell you. I have the ability to beat you in your mind, before we even lock up. When I face another man across that ring, I don’t see nervousness or excitement. I see fear in his eyes. I see him contemplate about finding another profession. I see his family look away. I can watch every match, at every show, and tell you who has potential, at a glance.
I look at your “trading card” list, and I see a few challenges, but not many. B.G. James, Mike Sydal, Sean Vincent, Mark Sterling, and Trevor Murdoch to name a few. However, back in WLW, I beat Trevor’s ass so bad, I guess he changed his name. Alot of the guys on the list, I’ve never heard of. I wont judge. As far as the rest of them, its like being really good at whiffleball, and trying to play pro baseball. You won’t make it past the first pitch.
Herb, I’m throwing a no hitter as your “Classic Heavyweight Wrestling Champion“. I know you are starting to get a little nervous about the amount of money your spending trying to knock me off. It will not happen. You brought in Danny Boy, Bob Orton, Dory Funk, and now Ted Dibiase, all to try to take me out. The only thing your doing, is turning the SICW into a grave yard. Vincent and I are just getting warmed up.
- Ron Powers has shown no mercy for any of the top stars that promoter Herb Simmons has put in front of him. Here Powers works the leg of Chaz Wesson. * Photo Credit Brian Kelley*
Keep sending bodies, and I’ll change my wrestling name to Kavorkian.
Classic Wrestling Champion
Ron Powers
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged: B.G. James, Bob Orton, Chaz Wesson, Danny Boy, Dory Funk Jr., Herb Simmons, mark sterling, Mike Sydal, MMWA-SICW, Ron Powers, Sean Vincent, Ted Dibiase, Terry Taylor, Trevor Murdoch, World Championship Wrestling, World Wrestling Federation | Leave a Comment »
Dory Funk JR thrills fans young and old in St Louis in 2011 at MMWA-SICW
Posted by flairwhoooooo on May 24, 2011
By Brian Kelley
With great info from Larry Matysik’s book From the Golden Era-The St. Louis Wrestling Record Book 1959 to 1983
Dory Funk Jr’s connection with the city of St. Louis is etched in stone. During Funk Jr’s historical four year NWA World Championship reign he would defend the title many times in the great city .
Dory Funk Jr- Photo Credit Amanada Blase
On February 11, 1969, in Tampa, Florida Funk captured the NWA World Championship with a victory over Gene Kiniski. Eleven days later on February 22, 1969 Funk would return to ST Louis to settle the score with rival Waldo Von Erich under “Texas Death Match Rules.”
Luck would have it for Waldo Von Erich that Sam Muchnick, Promoter in St. Louis and President of the National Wrestling Alliance changed the match from a Texas Death Match but to a World Title opportunity. The fans would be able to see Funk win a two out of three falls match when Funk won the first fall and Von Erich was not able to continue due to a shoulder injury.
Fans around the world know the name Bobby “The Brain” Heenan as the man who was instrumental in bring Pro Wrestling mainstream with his charismatic ability and quick wit while chasing mega star Hulk Hogan’s WWF (E) title during the Rock and Wrestling era.
Yet it was many years before that in St Louis that Hennan had protégé Black Jack Lanza in line to take the NWA World Championship. The two would sell out the Kiel Auditorium not once but twice, but even with the genius Hennan is Lanza’s corner Dory Funk Jr would not be dethroned.
For the next four years Dory Funk Jr. would defend the NWA World title around the world while bringing sell outs to St Louis with the very best challengers of that day. Fans would see classic matches between Funk Jr. and Dick the Bruiser, Jack and Jerry Brisco, Johnny Valentine, Rufus R. Jones, Baron Von Raschke and Harley Race before losing the title to Race in Kansas City on March 24th 1974.
In 1974 Dory Funk Jr would be the NWA Missouri Champion by defeating Harley Race on May 24th 1974 during a two out of three falls match at the Kiel.
Funk Jr. as the NWA Missouri Champion would get a victory of then NWA World Champion in St Louis on Nov ember 15 1974, Jack Brisco. St Louis announcer and historian Larry Matysik recalls in his book From the Golden Era-The St. Louis Wrestling Record Book 1959 to 1983 “*Dory Funk Jr. beat NWA Champion Jack Brisco, who did retain the title. Lou Thesz, special referee. 1-Brisco was DQ for throwing the bloody Funk over the top rope after 51:30. Neither man scored a fall in the remainder of the one-hour limit. As winner of the only fall, Funk was awarded the victory. But the challenger could not win the title by DQ, nor by winning only one fall of a best-of-three match, so Brisco kept the championship. This was the fifth consecutive battle between Brisco and Dory Jr. in almost four years that went the full one hour limit.
As the Missouri Champion Dory Funk Jr.defeated Killer Kowalski, in his last match in St Louis. Kowalski would go onto be inducted in the WWE Hall of Fame and train current WWE Star Hunter Hearst Helmsey, TNA Knockout Chyna among many others before he passed away on August of 2008.
The great Harley Race would regain the NWA Missouri Championship beating Dory Funk Jr. in a two out of three falls match on February. 21, 1975.
Dory would return to action for years in St Louis with a notable match on Aug. 6, 1982 at the Kiel against NWA Champion Ric Flair losing a two out of three falls battle.
The fans loved to see Canadian Sean Vincent get his due from the former World Champion Dory Funk JR *Photo Credit Brian Kelley*
In all as a World Champion Dory Funk Jr defended the NWA Championship 24 times while drawing over 256,871 total attendances which is an astounding average of 10,703.
This past Saturday in East Carondelet Illinois Dory Funk JR returned to action at the young age of 71 in a three way tag match with partner Chaz Wesson and Gary Jackson against Sean Vincent, Kevin X and CWC Champion Ron Powers.
In a true testament to Dory Funk Jr.’s charisma and talent, I witness fans young and old on their feet at the end of a very entertaining match.
The fans in St Louis still love Dory Funk JR *Photo Credit Brian Kelley *
Dory Funk JR has been inducted in every Wrestling Hall of fame that is creditable including the St Louis Wrestling Hall of Fame. His legacy will always have strong ties to the city of St Louis and thanks to the fine people at MMWA-SICW we had a special moment in wrestling history. Forty one years after his first NWA World title defense in St Louis, Funk Jr. returned to say thanks to the fans of the Midwest.
MWR fans will be thrilled to hear that Dory Funk Jr sat down with Larry Matysik in a special interview that can be purchased in the near future. Look for details on how in the future at MWR.
Dory Funk Jr. did not come alone to St Louis as he brought with him is lovely wife Marti and the students n the Funking Conservatory, their professional wrestling school which is also the Official American Training Center for All Japan Pro Wrestling. Please click on this link to watch Dory Funk Jr’s match along with the students of the night.
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged: Black Jack Lanza, Bobby Henan, Dick Bruiser, Dory Funk Jr., Harley Race, Jack Brisco, Jerry Brisco, Larry Matysik, Missouri Wrestling Revival, NWA, NWA World Champion, Sam Muchnick, ST Louis, St Louis Hall of Fame, Waldo Von Erich | 1 Comment »
Dory Funk JR teams up with Danny Boy and Gary Jackson this Saturday
Posted by flairwhoooooo on May 17, 2011
May 21, 2011, Dory Funk, Jr. returns to St. Louis
Here is this Saturday’s May 21 lineup for East Carondelet, Ill. Community Center
Promoters Larry Matysik and Herb Simmons
Dory Funk, Jr. and Danny Boy Hawkins and Gary Jackson
Vs.
Ron Powers and Kevin X and Sean Vincent
2 out of 3 falls
Big Texan vs. Dave Vaughn
Funking Conservatory Wrestling’s World Champion, Luke Spencer vs. Bobby Dee
Ace Hawkins vs. Brandon Espinosa
Waco vs. Chaz Wesson
LMC vs. Tony Raze
Plus one Wrestling Match from Funking Conservatory Wrestling Officiated by Claudia “The Claw” Reiff
For Ticket Information, call 618-286-3393
Friday, May 20 at the Community Center
8 p.m. Meet in person Dory Funk, Jr (Talk to Dory Funk about Sam Muchnick and all the wrestlers who made St. Louis one of the Greatest Wrestling Cities in World)
For Ticket Information, call 618-286-3393
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged: Dory Funk Jr. | 1 Comment »
2010 Missouri Wrestling Revival Award winners
Posted by flairwhoooooo on January 27, 2011
What a great year 2010 was for pro wrestling in the Midwest. Shows throughout the Midwest showed a steady growth in an economy that is struggling.
The biggest companies in the World, WWE and TNA both had pay per views in the Midwest. Fans were able to meet the stars at TNA’S fan fest. The ST Louis Wrestling Hall of Fame honored Dory Funk JR, Bobby the Brain Heenan and Baron von Raschke with their inductions to the hall of fame during the celebration.
Wrestling returned to Kansas City in a big way when Metro Pro Wrestling debut at the historic Memorial Hall with special guest Tommy Dreamer and a TV deal on Metro Sports. Led by former WWE Superstar Trevor Murdock, the Metro roster has to step up their game if they are to be the best if they are to stand out of the 3 time WWE Tag Team Champions shadow.
We were happy to add New Midwest Wrestling to our coverage area.At MWR we have seen some of the NMW talents in past in Dan the Man and Ryan Phoenix but we quickly saw that Bobby Houston, Eric Logan and NMW Champion Jonathan Magnus are just a few that are worthy of seeing in action as well.
Once again we were able to enjoy another great PWE show at the Lincoln Balloon Festival. PWE later in the year saw Donovan Ruddick and Mason Beck go up against the fun lovin former WWE Star U-Gene and the Mississippi Madman.
We were able to see PWP get out of the grasp of the Murder Militia in a classic War Games match while on the other side of the state 3XWrestling continued their standard of providing the fans with great wrestling and an up and close look at their great website including the monthly Outside the Ring program.
In ST Louis MMWA-SICW was the 2009 MWR Promotion of the Year, but they did not rest on their laurels. They continued to train young wrestlers while bringing in some of the very best in Mark Sterling and Mike Sydal, fans where also thrilled to see old favorites return like Danny Boy and Ron Powers.
AAPW had one of the very best feuds in the Midwest with Shane Rich turning his back on his good friend Edmund “Livewire” McGuire.
NWA Dynamo has brought back some of the GCW flavor and packed the house in a great show in the summer with Pete Madden and Mike Sharona going to war with Nikki Strychnine and Makaze in the main event.
HVW had a slow year but was proud to boast that HVW Original Santana G had made her way to Florida with a great opportunity to valet on Spike TV for TNA with Orlando Jordan.
World League Wrestling is primed to be at their very best with the young talent training at the Harley Race Wrestling Academy. Don’t be surprised to see the talents of Jason Jones, the Cancun Kid, Lucy Mendez, Jack Gamble, Brian Breaker and Ethan Wright hold titles throughout the Midwest and beyond in the near future.
IHW proved that they were one of the best with entertaining shows that grew more and more fans each time. Brandon Aarons has turned into the one of the biggest fan favorites in all of the Midwest. Eric Allen and Sean Vincent would test the skills of the rising young star.
MECW mixed hometown flavor with a dose of Windy City Wrestling, including former WWE Star Mike Anthony and the one and only Bailey Mannix along with teen heart throb Evan Money.
IWA Unlimited provided the fans of Olney Illinois with free wrestling each Wednesday. High flying and hard hitting action gave the wrestlers a chance to improve their skills in a great environment.
IWA Productions packed the house with special guest The Honky Tonk Man but it was the local fans that stole the show when Christian Rose and Danny Cannon tore the roof off the place.
NWA Supreme shows may not have that many shows but the ones they did have where filled with some of the best stars locally and nationally.
MWR wrestlers have been active working to get to the top. Mike Sydal was announced as the 2009 PWI Rookie of the year while Midwest stars Mark Sterling, Ace Hawkins, Brandon Espinosa all made appearances with Ring of Honor.
The fans and friends of Barry Ryte showed their support for their guy after he was diagnosed with cancer causing him to back out of the 2010 ECWA Super 8 tournament. Barry has shown in the ring that he has the heart of a champion, and that fighting spirit has helped him It has been announced that he has been cleared to wrestle in 2011. If we had an inspirational wrestler of the Year he would have won hands down.
Fans were blessed to have the Champion of the World Tyler Black make their way to their hometown as Tyler Black met Jeremy Wyatt at 3Xwrestling in Des Moines Iowa, while in Illinois Black went one on one with Brandon Aarons.
This fall word got out that the Future Donovan Ruddick had made his way to Florida with a developmental contract for WWE. He joined the before mentioned Black who has since lost his title to Roderick Strong but we all know the best is yet to come for Tyler Black.
I hope that you have enjoyed the coverage of all of your favorite promotions. It is with the hard work of Dubray Tallman, Mike Van Hoogstraat, Bill Smith, Gary Giaffoglione, Matt Murphy, Greg Anthony , Dartallion Allen, Mark Campos, Josh Ray and Rob Schamberger that makes the site what it is today.
We would like to thank the promoters and wrestlers that support the site for the past three years.
Last but not least thank you so much to the fans of pro wrestling in the Midwest. Take the time to see a wrestler before they become the next Superstar.
On January first we were proud to announce that Mike Chapman was named as the 2010 MWR Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. For more info on Mike Chapman click here.
Now with further ado I give you the 2010 MWR yearly awards.
2010 Wrestler of the Year
Mike Sydal-
Mike Sydal (Photo Credit Scott Finkelstein)
The wrestler of the year was a close vote this year as the surge of Mark Sterling coming within votes to be named for the second year in a row for MWR Wrestler of the Year. Meanwhile Donovan Ruddick had a great push thanks to great performances in 2010 against Dave Vaughn, Mephisto, and the Mississippi Madman. Hard work would pay off for Ruddick as the opportunity that many felt was long overdue, came to pass when he was signed to the WWE developmental contract late this fall. Jeremy Wyatt and Trevor Murdock both garnered several votes thanks to what many voters voiced their respect for each of these men. Last but not least just on the outside of the voting range was Brandon Aarrons who and his former tag team partner Brandon Espinosa .
Mike Sydal toured the country in 2010 wrestling in matches each and every week. Promoters loved him, fans cheered him and the country noticed. His hard work and dedication combined with a true desire to improve earned made him the second wrestler that took part in the WLW/Noah camp that won the PWI Rookie of the Year.
Sydal was just getting started, during Wrestlemania weekend he was in California wrestling with Ring of Honor. He would continue wrestling with Ring of Honor training at their training center before making appearances on Direct TV’S HDNET against Tyler Black, Christopher Daniels and more.
In the fall Sydal returned to much fan fare. At Metro Pro Wrestling, Rock and Roll Mike Sydal was once again on TV with Metro Pro Wrestling against the former WWE Tag Team Champion Trevor Murdock.
At 3XW he was involved in one of the most emotional matches of the year when he was force to face “The Unbreakable” Zach Thompson. Thompson defeated his High Flyers’ partner Mike Sydal following a Dublin Driver in a very emotional and hard fought Loser Leaves 3XWrestling match set up by 3XW Commissioner Todd Countryman in May. Fans rejoiced when Thompson overcame the odds to defeat Brian Ash in November to allow Sydal to once again return.
Throughout the year of 2010 Sydal popped up just about everywhere good wrestling could be found.
Sydal has earned the respect of his peers and promoters and it showed in the 2010 in the final vote. Out of 14 awards committee voters the lowest Sydal got were 16.
We would like to congratulate Mike Sydal as the 2010 MWR Wrestler of the Year.
First Runner up– Mark Sterling
Second Runner up– Donovan Ruddick
Third Runner up– Jeremy Wyatt
2010 MWR Tag team of the Year
Attitude Inc. (Guy Smith, Spencer Powers, and Michael Shard)
- New Midwest Tag Team Champions : Attitude Inc – Spencer Powers, Michael Shard and Guy Smith
Attitude Inc is a flashy tag team that has electrified the ring at New Midwest Wrestling for the past year. All three men are former NMW Heavyweight Champions who have come together and found success. Like the Freebirds, Attitude Inc have mixed partners to their advantages. Their success and talent has won over the awards committee.
At the start of the year they dismantled the faction the Sin Club of Steve Bishop, Dave Parker and Dareian Frost in impressive fashion.
In July the they outlasted the tag teams of Logantyre (Eric Logan and Justin McEntyre) , The New Immolare (Tom Arson and Ryan Phoenix) and the Full Metal Jackals( Danny Cannon and Alex Castle) in an exciting four way match to win the NMW Tag Team titles.
In consecutive months of October and November they defeated the up and coming tag team the Full Metal Jackals (Danny Cannon and Alex Castle) to retain the NMW Tag Team Titles.
Though Attitude Inc has their hands full with the tag team of the Uninvited (Rip Mystic and Tom Arson) heading into 2011, the team can hold their head up high that MWR has named them the 2010 MWR Tag Team of the Year.
First Runner up– Gentleman’s Club- Devin Carter and Casanova
Second Runner up- Steve Fender and Mark Sterling
Third Runner up – The Hooligans -Devin and Mason Cutter
2010 MWR Female of the Year
Amy Hennig
- Amy Hennig (Photo Credit Bill Smith)
The current World League Wrestling Women’s champion has been dominate in 2010. Hennig has trained at the Harley Race Wrestling Academy and has all the tools to make it to the top of the wrestling world.
Matches with Lucy Mendez, Santana G and Angelus Layne were must see matches in 2010.
You can catch her brother Joe every Monday night on WWE, do not miss the chance to see her in the Midwest while you still can.
First Runner up -MsChif
Second Runner up- Santana G
Third Runner up- Lucy Mendez
2010 MWR Promotion of the Year
3Xwrestling
3XW’s fifth year proved to be the best yet, featuring a mix of incredible wrestling, packed crowds, strong business relationships within the community, and a continuing commitment to charitable efforts.
Despite the common perception that interest in wrestling is on the decline, 3XW enjoyed consistently growing crowds throughout the year, routinely packing the Des Moines Social Club each month for events thanks to a loyal – and growing – following and strong television, radio, print and word-of-mouth advertising, not to mention the most talented roster of wrestlers in the entire Midwest.
This past July, 3XW also had the honor of being the last wrestling promotion to hold matches in historic Veterans Memorial Auditorium, a building with 55 years of wrestling history. The athletes of 3XW competed in the same building that NWA affiliates, particularly Central States, held matches years ago, not to mention some major WWE/WWF/WCW moments.
3XW’s webshow, Outside the Ring, enjoyed an increasing number of views, as did 3XWrestling.com, which was visited by thousands of fans each month.
First Runner up- Independent Hardcore Wrestler
Second Runner up- MMWA-SICW
Third Runner up- Metro Pro Wrestling
2010 MWR Match of the Year
Jeremy Wyatt vs. Tyler Black – 3XW – April 2, 2010
Spring Showdown at 3Xwrestling was a monumental night of pro wrestling featuring one of the top wrestlers in the Midwest proving to the world that he could hang with the Champion of the World.
The two wrestled to a 30-minute time limit draw in an incredible wrestling match that earned a standing ovation from the crowd after the final bell. The last minute of the match saw referee Jeromy Robb inadvertently get crushed in the corner by both men and fall to the canvas. Black quickly nailed Wyatt with a tremendous reverse brainbuster and covered him for the pin, only there was no ref to count the pin. As Black was checking on the ref in the corner, Wyatt slowly rose to his feet and grabbed Black from behind, slamming him hard with his patented Kansas Tumbleweed (Lightning Spiral) and covering him for the pin with 20 seconds remaining, only for the ref to still be out. Wyatt screamed and pleaded for the ref to get up to no avail and he even counted the pin himself. The time then ran out before a winner could be determined but the fans gave a standing ovation.
First Runner up- MECW November 20, 2010 – Bailey Mannix vs. Eric Allen – 30 Minute Ironman Match
Second Runner up- The Mississippi Madman vs. The Future Donovan Ruddick with MR Late Nite at Pro Wrestling Epic August 28th, 2010 Lincoln, Illinois
Third Runner up- Danny Cannon vs Christian Rose ladder match from IWA Productions OCC show in January 2010
For a complete list of nominations sent from fans, promoters and wrestlers around the Midwest click here.
Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged: 2010 ECWA Super 8 tournament, 3XWrestling, AAPW, Ace Hawkins, Alex Castle, Angelus Layne, Bailey Mannix, Baron Von Raschke, Barry Ryte, Bill Smith, Bobby Houston, Bobby the brain Heenan, Brandon Aarons, Brandon Espinosa, Brian Ash, Brian Breaker, Cancun Kid, Casanova, Christian Rose, Christopher Daniels, Dan The Man, Danny Boy, Danny Cannon, Dartallion Allen, Dave Parker, Dave Vaughn, Devin Carter, Devin Cutter, Direct TV’S HDNET, Donovan Ruddick, Dory Funk Jr., Dubray Tallman, Edmund "Livewire" McGuire, Eric Allen, Eric Logan, Ethan Wright, Evan Money, Full Metal Jackets, Gary Giaffoglione, Gentleman’s Club, Greg Anthony, Guy Smith, Harley Race Wrestling Academy, HVW, IHW, Independent Hardcore Wrestler, IWA Productions, IWA unlimited, Jack Gamble, Jason Jones, jeremy wyatt, Joe Hennig, Jonathan Magnus, Josh Ray, Justin McEntyre, Logantyre, Lucy Mendez, Makaze, Mark Campos, mark sterling, Mason Beck, Mason Cutter, Matt Murphy, MECW, Mephisto, Metro pro Wrestling, Michael Shard, Mike Anthony, Mike Chapman, Mike Sharona, Mike Sydal, Mike Van Hoogstraat., Mississippi Madman, MMWA-SICW, Murder Militia, MWR, New Midwest Wrestling, Nikki Strychnine, NWA SUPREME, Orlando Jordan, Pete Madden, PWE, Ring of Honor, Rip Mystic, Rob Schamberger, Roderick Strong, Ron Powers, Ryan Phoenix, Santana G, Sean Vincent, Shane Rich, Sin Club, Spencer Powers, St. Louis Wrestling Hall of Fame, Steve Bishop, Steve Fender, The Honky Tonk Man, The New Immolare, The Unbreakable" Zach Thompson, TNA, Todd Countryman, Tom Arson, Tommy Dreamer, Trevor Murdock, Tyler Black, U-Gene, Uninvited, Windy City Wrestling, World League Wrestling, WWE | 1 Comment »
3XW champ ready to kick Ash -By Mark Campos
Posted by flairwhoooooo on November 27, 2010
It’s that time of year again folks as we get ready for family gatherings, turkeys roasting in the oven, a time of peace and serenity……..and of course 3XWrestling’s “Holiday Havoc 2”! What better way to celebrate the holidays then with a full course meal of pro wrestling action?
The 3XW Heavyweight title will be on the line as the current champ Rory Fox will take on the “Gentlemen’s Club” own Brian Ash. This feud has been going on for the past couple of months and with the “Club” and their manager, “Commissioner” Todd Countryman, always interfering in the matches Fox may have to devise a new strategy for dealing with the big man.
Rory Fox made an immediate impact the first moment he stepped into the 3XW ring and to no one’s surprise was the 2009 3XW Newcomer of the Year. Many fans already knew Fox from the MTV reality show many moons ago called True Life: I Want to be a Professional Wrestler. The Iowa native has traveled the country mastering his craft for over ten years and is now setting his sights on Brian Ash and the “Gentlemen’s Club”. Fox won the 3XWrestling Heavyweight title in May at the “5 Year Anniversary” event from “The Rebel” Jeremy Wyatt in a sensational ladder match. Since then he has had to fend of the likes of Ryan Slade, Gage Octane and the rest of the “Gentlemen’s Club”. After having Ash and his cohorts continuously attack him from behind Fox is ready to end this once and for all!
Brian Ash is the very first 3XW Heavyweight champion and he carried the title for some time as he has wreaked havoc all over the wrestling world. Trained by the legends Harley Race and Dory Funk Jr., Ash has the tools, size and experience to take the strap from Rory Fox. But even with his natural abilities Brian Ash has once again chosen to take the easy ride to the top. Ash returned to the ring in March of this year after retiring in a “Loser Leaves 3XW” match from 2007 and seemed to be making amends for his past behavior. True colors were shown though as he returned to the ring and turned on his wrestling students Maddog McDowell and “The Unbreakable Zach Thompson. This is nothing new though as Ash along with Octane and Countryman were once known as the “Blue Chippers” before the creation of the dastardly “Gentlemen’s Club” and much like today cheated to win at all costs. Brian Ash wants his title back and Rory Fox will have to depend on speed, agility and maybe some outside interference to keep the big man down to retain his belt.
Other matches have been announced for “Holiday Havoc 2” including a rematch from last months show with the 3XW Pure Wrestling champion “The Laotian Sensation” Ricky Kwong taking on “The Rockstar” Jimmy Rockwell. Last months match was incredible as these former tag team partners gave probably the best match so far in their 3XW careers. A stipulation has been put in place by the 3XW Board of Director as Kwong’s sneaky manager Chad Mylan will be handcuffed to Skylar Pierce during the match! Also a six man tag team match is in place as The Horndogs and Zach Thompson take on American Ground and Air with Ryan Slade. More matches will be announced soon!
In addition to all this pro wrestling excitement 3XW is putting on a “Holiday Havoc 2” preparty on December 1st at Cup O’Kryptonite, located at 4521 Fleur Drive, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. There will be free beer, door prizes, pro wrestlers, comics and did I mention free beer!
Also don’t forget to bring toys down to the show as 3XW is collecting for Toys for Tots!
“Holiday Havoc 2” will be held at the Des Moines Social Club on Friday, December 3rd located at 1408 Locust Street in Des Moines, IA. Tickets can be purchased online at 3XWrestling.com or at Cup O’Kryptonite and both Jay’s CD and Hobby locations. Advance presale tickets cost $12 for adults and $6 for kids 10 and under. Ticket will also be sold the night of the show at $15 for adults, $6 for kids 10 and under and kids 3 and under are free. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. with the bell time being 7:30 p.m. Don’t be a turkey bring a toy for a child in need!
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Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged: 3XWrestling, Brian Ash, Chad Mylan, Dory Funk Jr., Gage Octane, Harley Race, jeremy wyatt, Maddog McDowell, Mark Campos, MTV, Ricky Kwong, Rory Fox, Ryan Slade, Todd Countryman, Zach Thompson | Leave a Comment »
Missouri Wrestling Revival 