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Posts Tagged ‘Wade Chism’

The 2013 MWR Yearbook is HERE Purchase TODAY!!!

Posted by flairwhoooooo on February 18, 2014

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It is with great excitement that we are presenting the 2013 MWR Yearbook.

Since 2008 Missouri Wrestling Revival has supported the men and women in pro wrestling in the Midwest. Throughout the past 6 years we have had the support and assistance of many great people. From the promoters that work hard to promote shows with their hard earned money and deliver an exciting night for fans to remember to the wrestlers that have driven miles and miles down the road each and every weekend. We have worked closely during the years with many of the top writers, photographers, artist and fans that have true love and respect for the sport.

Each year the yearbook in my opinion is a testament for all the hard work that everyone has done to keep pro wrestling alive in the Midwest. No matter if you have contributed to the yearbook or MWR website this year or if the last time was when the site first opened, please know that you are part of the MWR family and a positive reason for the success of the site.

The 2013 MWR Yearbook returns with the Artist of Champions Rob Schamberger once again painting and designing the cover feature the 2013 MWR Year end Award Recipients.

For the low price of 19.95 on Amazon.com this book is filled with over 650 photos and over 300 pages.

To put that in perspective the cost of this book is only .7 cents per page!!

If that is not enough for you to purchase the book the cover of the the 2013 MWR Yearbook features the return of “The Artist of Champions” Rob Schamberger ,painting and designing the cover feature the 2013 MWR Award Recipients.

Highlights include

• Introduction by Midwest star Darin Corbin

• January- December Top Stories

• Mike Wilson’s Shooter Spotlights

• Articles from Adam Testa, Ben Simon, Herb Simmons, David J. McCutcheon, Mike Wilson, Patrick Brandmeyer, Pete Sakaris, Steven Lucas, Matt Murphy , Patrick Harden, Chris Roedel, Eleanor Harris, Midnight Guthrie, Josh Ray, Brady Lawrence and Jesse Matthews and more.

• Artwork from Artists Mark Taggart, ICON, Raven Johnson, Michael Liao, and Ron McCaffery III

• Artwork of Harley Race, Bruiser Brody, Rufus R. Jones, Macho Man Randy Savage,”Dr. Death” Steve Williams, “Bulldog” Bob Brown Buck Robley, The Great Cheyenne, Ricky Cruz, ACH, Heath Hatton, Dan Walsh, Dubray Tallman, “Miss Natural” Heather Patera, Bull Schmitt, The Magic Man, Sean Vincent, Rachael Summerlyn, Davey Vega, Mark Sterling, Stacey O’Brien, Darin Corbin, Ruff Crossing and the Ladies of MWR featuring every female star that entered a MWR promotion in 2013.

• MWR Complete results page of all the 2013 shows.

• MWR Friends and Family photo collection.

• Wrestle Wear Beyond Compare- MWR Wrestlers model their own shirts.

• A look at books from authors in the Midwest including.

o Larry Matysik’s 50 Greatest Wrestlers of All-time.

o Matt Murphy’s The Story of a Nobody and the pursuit to become Somebody.

o Wrestling at the Chase photographer Roger Deem’s the Strap.

o Blood, Tables and Chairs – “The Story of an independent Wrestler”

• Matt Murphy remembers Dr. Death Steve Williams

• Larry Matysik and Pete Madden on Eddie Smith.

• Wade Chism Flashback.

• The return of the very popular Favorite matches by the wrestlers themselves ..
This year we have

o Brandon Espinosa
o The Drill Instructor
o Flash Flanagan
o Heather Patera
o The Hooligans

• MWR Top Prospects

• MWR Trading Card list

• From the Desk of promoter Herb Simmons.

• MWR by the numbers..

• MWR Year in Awards and for the first time who were the runner ups!

• THIS AND MUCH MORE!!

So don’t wait any longer be sure to purchase yourself a copy of the 2013 MWR Yearbook and add it to your collection with the 2011 and 2012!

Thank you for your support of MWR and we hope to see you at a show in 2014!

To PURCHASE this book today click here.

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WLW/WWE/Pro Wrestling Noah presented a magical week for wrestlers and fans in the Midwest in October.

Posted by flairwhoooooo on October 25, 2011

By Brian Kelley

For the past 10 plus years the must attend wrestling weekend in the Midwest has been held in Eldon Missouri at Harley Race’s World League Wrestling Academy. Race is considered by many to be the very best wrestler in the history of the sport. During his time as the 8-time NWA World Champion he would travel across the globe defending the title including the very best in Japan. When his career was done those trips and relationships would help build a relationship with Pro Wrestling Noah, one of the top wrestling companies not only in Japan but around the world.

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-Wrestling NOAH Ken Hirayama and Ryu Nakata with Harley Race. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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Trevor Murdock has been a star around the world but there is nothing like being home with the ones he loves. Here he is joined with his daughter and Wife before meeting his fans. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

WLW and NOAH would team up to trade talent to allow the best to compete against each other in matches that would prepare one Trevor Murdock to not only be ready to make a run in WWE but flourish with tag team partner Lance Cade to become a 3-time WWE Tag Team Champions.

The WLW school would introduce fans to stars like Matt “the Missile” Murphy, Griz, Derek Stone, Trevor Murdock, Wade Chism, the Drill Instructor, Warcloud and Johnny Jett as they mixed it up with many of the top names in the sport like Meng, Butch Reed, Bobby Eaton, The Harris Brothers, Rick Stiener and Japan’s Takeshi Morishima, Takao Ōmori and Go Shiozaki as they toured towns for fundraisers around the Midwest.

While the school runs year round to season the young talent, the annual WLW/NOAH camp works with WWE as past trainers have been John Laurinaitis, Ricky Steamboat, Tom Pritchard, Takashi Suguira, Go Shiozaki, Takeshi Morishima, KENTA, Naomichi Marufuji, Kenta Kobashi, Ty Bailey, and many more.

This year’s camp featured Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat, William Regal, Kevin Von Erich, and Harley Race along with representatives from Pro-Wrestling NOAH Ken Hirayama and Ryu Nakata as students around the country came to hone their wrestling skills in the ring.

I was honored to be a guest to sit in during the weeks camp as the 40 plus students took part in the camp. During the days that I was there I was impressed with the patience and dedication that each of the trainers gave each of the students.

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Superstar Steve and Pro Wrestling Noah teaches to the students. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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Jason Jones and Noah show young Joe Reiling some pointers (Photo Credit Brian Kelley)

Due to the size of the groups there were two locations for the students, one for the beginners and one for the more seasoned wrestlers. While each group would be able to get great hints on how to work a match, logic, moves and where to be in the ring with hands on from the trainers.

As the camp went on during the week, the Pro Wrestling Noah and WWE representatives wanted to see the wrestlers come up with a match, then perform it in the ring. After the match was done advise was given to each of the wrestlers on what they did right, what they could have done different and how to improve it for the fans.

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Dustin Bozworth (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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Dillon Divine (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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Jonas Albert Robinson (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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(Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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SBC (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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(Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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(Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

During the Saturday wrestling show I sat down with a few of the students to get their take on the weeklong camp and what they got out of it. One Jonas Albert Robinson from Oregon had already been to Lance Storms camp and been wrestling since 2008 stated honestly “What I learned this week was that I don’t know anything about wrestling. When I walked through the door I thought I knew about 60% of how to have a great match but in reality it was more close to 5%. The trainers at the camp really opened my eyes on how to improve my game and give the fans their money’s worth when I get in the ring. Then I was amazed at the positivity and information that Kevin (Von Erich) provided. In the end he was such an added bonus with Steamboat and Regal.

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The Freebird -Von Erich feud did not get started again at the camp but Freebird Buddy Roberts son Buddy Roberts JR poses with his dads arch enemies sons Marshal and Ross Von Erich. All three took part in the camp. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )(Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

While Jonas have been able to be in the ring prior to the week, Joe Reiling has yet to have a match but knew the importance of getting the proper training and the luxury of having Race’s camp so close to his home in Warrensburg Missouri. Reiling stepped up the plate when Regal asked for two young men to get in the ring to work the arms. Though his experience was limited he gave a 100 percent and tried to soak in all the information that his trainers were given him. During my conversations with his fellow peers in the camp they relayed to me that he had earned their respect that week and had improved a ton from day one to the final day. Reiling stated to me that he did not know when his first match would come but the camp added to the fire to learn more to live his dream to be a pro wrestler.

I watched another Oregon native Dillon Divine as he worked under the watchful eyes of Steamboat and Regal. I was impressed with his facial expressions and Divine said it best to be when said “You get what you put out of it. So go for it.

While many of the Harley students took part in the camp one young wrestler fans at MWR are aware of is the 2010 MWR Future Star recipient Sir Bradley Charles.

The award is given not only to the wrestler MWR feels has the talent but the dedication and work ethic to become better, to be the best that they can be. SBC had been to Lance Storms camp, wrestled outside the country and is a rising star at Metro Pro Wrestling, 3xwRESTLING , NWA Dynamo and SICW but he once again proved that he is deserving of the award by seeking out more training to be the best that he can be.

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Ryan Drago looks to slow down Lee Walker. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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SBC receives a punishing blow from Dustin Bozworth. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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OUCH (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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Jeff Strong stretches SBC. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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Jeff Strong, Ryan Drago and Dustin Bozoworth with the win. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

At the end of the week SBC debuted for WLW as he teamed up on the Saturday show with Lee Walker. & Ethan H.D in a tough loss against the team of Ryan Drago, Jeff Strong, & Dustin Bozworth. Even though SBC did not get the “W” the skills that he learned this week will give him that much more a chance to become a star around the world.

In what was one of the most surprising moments for me during the week the students were all smiles as they told me that Regal had invited them to his hotel room on the final night to discuss wrestling in a special Q and A on the week’s events, his opinions and stories from one of the most traveled wrestlers from the past twenty years. What an invitation from a man who could of easily of stayed to himself during a time that he was not required to but instead respects the sport so much that he wanted to give back to the students who took the opportunity to take part in the camp. To say that with that bit of information from the students didn’t move Regal up on my favorites of all time would be a lie.

The week would not be complete as WLW would bring the action and love to the fans. A great night of wrestling as always added with a request from Regal to actually wrestle on the card. His opponent former WLW wrestler who has worked at WWE and ROH as well as a two time WLW Tag team champion with Matt Murphy and Superstar Steve Fender respectably.

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Steve Fender meets the fans. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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Ms Natural and her fans. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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This lovely grandmother brought her granddaughter to the matches. They were so adorable that a picture had to be taken. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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MWR Dubray Tallman poses with friends from ST Louis Kyle Valle and Joe Bates. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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(Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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Everyone wants to talk to the WLW Champ Brian Breaker. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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For 5 hours Kevin Von Erich signed autograph after autograph then took photo after photo. One of the nicest guys MWR has ever met.

The night started off with the fans having a chance to meet the stars of WLW as well as Ricky Steamboat and Kevin Von Erich.

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Is Kevin Von Erich Teaching the WLW Women's champ Lucy Mendez how to do the claw? (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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Ricky Steamboat was in high demand. Bringing smiles to fans young and old alike. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

I had the honor of meeting a true Superstar on the night when I spoke to the Cauliflower Alley Club’s Karl Lauer.

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Master Sgt Ira Scott, 87 yrs young and served in WW11, Korea and VietNam total over 30 yrs

He introduced me his “hero” Master Sgt Ira Scott, 87 yrs young and served in WW11, Korea and VietNam total over 30 yrs. was in the US Air Force and done everything from crew chief on fighters, to copters to bombers to medical attention in emergency and sewed up guys so would not bleed before the medics go to um. A very remarkable man and what a real hero is really all about. 5″6″ about 145 lbs and sharp as a teen ager. Later in the night WLW announcer Dan Gier would introduce him to the fans. Out of respect everyone in attendance gave the man a well-deserved standing ovation.

As fans took the time to get their autographs and pictures taken with the stars, The personal highlight of the night for me was to have a few fans come up to introduce themselves stating that they visited the site and enjoyed it.

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Here I pose with a fan of MWR, a great guy who we hope to see in the matches soon.

I have many friends that I know visit the site but it truly makes it worth it when I meet new friends that check MWR out so that they may know when WLW will be back in action or an interview with an up and comer.

One of my very childhood best friends Billy Howser came up for the show on the night with his friend Steve. Billy showed great taste in women once again when the love bug hit him for the “Catholic Schoolgirl” Stacey O’Brien.

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Every schoolboys dream is now every wrestling fans as Stacey O has the boys hearts in the palm of her hands. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

Billy bought him an 8×10 of her and wanted to know when I thought she would be at in the future as I stated that she is a star as well for Metro Pro Wrestling.

As we gear up for the first ever MWR Yearbook, I have called on friends to help me add some special features for the book. One of them is famed artist ICON who work includes the world renowned painting The Gods of Thunder painting, as seen at WWE Magazine January 2011.

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Kevin Von Erich with my friend Icon. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

When he told me of his newest project called “Fantasy Warfare” where he will be drawing two wrestlers from different eras going to war. The first one he did was former WWE Champion the Ultimate Warrior taking on current WWE Star and former WWE Champ Sheamus. I quickly asked to have a special one drawn for the 2011 yearbook and when he asked me who I would like to see go to battle I chose two of my very favorites of all-time, Harley Race vs. Kurt Angle. A match that I think could have won multiple awards throughout the years. Fans be sure to look for this great feature in the book to see who got the edge in this exclusive feature from ICON.

We had posted the importance of Kevin Von Erich coming to the Midwest prior to the show at MWR but little did we know how friendly the man was. All night long he posed for photos giving the fans the famed Von Erich Claw and signing autographs.

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Young Jalen Ray will never forget having the claw put on him by a true master of the move Kevin Von Erich. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

One friend came up to me and was impressed on how respectful his sons Marshall and Ross were to them when they asked for a photo. Their comment, Kevin raised them kid’s right. Marshall and Ross by the way took part in the camp as they look to make a name for themselves. Their dad Kevin, proudly told me how talented they were in their high school sports during a special interview with MWR.

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Corey Dunken leans on Jason Jones. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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The Prince Jason Jones wins once again in 2011. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

An exciting night of action started off with one of the hottest wrestlers in the country as “The Prince” Jason Jones continued his momentum with a win against young Corey Dunken. Jones would have been a real threat for the NWA JR title if he would have been able to get in the tournament for the vacated title left by former champion Craig Classic.

The WLW women’s title has not been as red hot since Malia Hosaka and Brandi Alexander went to war for the championship.

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Ms Natural delivers a punishing move on O'Brien. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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Payback from Stacey. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

With Ms Natural, the most decorated champion in the company’s history back in the game the fans got to see a classic as Champion Lucy Mendez showed her heart to win a match that also featured former MWR Female of the year Stacey O’Brien.

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Lucy keeps the WLW title much to the delight of the fans in Eldon. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

In a WLW Classic match it would be ALL THAT Matt Murphy teaming up with Steve Fender to meet Trevor Murdock and Bull Schmitt in tag action. Each of these men have been able to take the skills taught to them by Race to make multiple trips to Japan and WWE in years past and their battles have always had a special place in the WLW faithful’s hearts.

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Welcome back to wrestling Matt Murphy says Trevor Murdock. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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(Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

During the match Murphy looked to have a leg injury and would not be able to continue. It looked so bad that Ricky Steamboat who was watching in the bleachers with Ms. Natural came to ringside to assist Murphy.

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Steamboat shows some heart to help the "injured" Murphy. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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Murphy was proud of himself as he taunts the former NWA World Champion Steamboat. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

When out of the blue, Murphy showed his true colors and attacked Murdock and Schmitt to the shock of Steamboat and the fans.

Murdock and Schmitt would be able to recover to get the win in what many fans said was one of the most special moments in WLW History. Out of respect each men hugged one another to end the match.

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RESPECT. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

This past spring WLW Stars Trevor Murdock and Brian Breaker toured Japan for Pro Wrestling Noah. While the two stars were on the plane tragedy struck when Hurricane Katrina exploded on Japan. The country was left in shambles and many lost loved ones during one of the saddest moments of 2011. During intermission Harley thanked his friends at Pro Wrestling Noah for their support throughout the years. In response Pro-Wrestling NOAH Ken Hirayama and Ryu Nakata spoke to the fans. They spoke about the promises of many countries to stay and help the country during the aftermath but when it came time for action many was no where to be seen, while Switzerland and the USA were front and center with support for Japan. They then thanked the fans and the country while starting a USA Chant out of respect for the men and women of the USA for their help.

Back to action the man who is the current WLW Champion Brian Breaker would defend his title against fan favorite Jack Gamble. In what I thought was the match of the night, Gamble took a beating but refused to lay down to the champion Breaker. It looked as if the speed of Gamble may pay off but Breaker was just to good as his moves of crushing power was too much for Gamble.

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Jack Gamble took a beating throughout the match but never once backed down. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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Jack Gamble can exploded at any time during a match. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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DROP!! (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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WWE'S William Regal.

In the main event it would be a wrestling clinic as Steven Regal and Ace Steel would go old school as they traded moves and punishing blows that could have been a headlined anywhere in the country.

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Sit back and watch a classic wrestling match in front of your eyes as Regal goes against Ace Steel. (Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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(Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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(Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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(Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

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(Photo Credit Brian Kelley )

Regal would be able to capture a hard earned win on Ace Steel to finish the nights.

Once again World League Wrestling proved that they provide the fans with moments that will be cherished for a lifetime. For the aspiring wrestler , they gave them a chance to become better and be seen by WWE and Pro Wrestling Noah Scouts and for the fans a chance to meet their favorites and watch wrestling the way it was meant to be.

If you missed this years event be sure to keep an eye out at MWR for info on all WLW shows and as soon as we know more about the 2012 WLW/WWE/NOAH camp we will post it here.

Editor’s Note: We would like to thank Harley Race, Pro Wrestling Noah for their hospitably to bring allow us to bring you the fans this awesome look at one of the most important weeks of the year. WLW for over the past 10 years have been dedicated to giving back to communities through fundraisers of their exciting family friendly wrestling shows.

Thank you to the wrestlers of WLW and the students that attended the camp for working with MWR for photos and comments for this story.

Last and most importantly thank you to the fans for their support of MWR and your local wrestling promotion.

Hope you enjoyed this feature and we hope to see you at the matches real soon.

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Combat Tested, Mother Approved

Posted by Admin on October 9, 2008

Combat Tested, Mother Approved!
MWR vs WWE vs TNA?

by Josh Ray (MWR Owner/Editor)
inadvertent.nerd@gmail.com

A day or two ago I began thinking to myself about the vice grip that World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has on professional wrestling here in the United States. Sometimes it gets frustrating for me to see talented, believable wrestlers left out of the mainstream simply because they aren’t the son or daughter of a former pro wrestler or aren’t a clone of Randy Orton. I understand that WWE is doing smart business, but smart business can sometimes be the undoing of the business, too.

In addition to the glass ceiling that keeps many wrestlers from reaching full potential, the exit door can be very unforgiving, too. WWE owns the wrestlers’ names in many cases, or changes the names so that when the wrestler returns to the independent scene his name value and drawing power is greatly diminshed. If a wrestler is an independent contractor, they should be able to retain the name when they no longer compete in WWE. It’s actually really sad that WWE conducts business that way.

Total Nonstop Action (TNA) has started conducting business in this way to a lesser degree. I completely understand not letting the wrestlers compete on the independent scene while they work for the respective company, provided they are being adaquetly paid. However, once they are done they should be allowed to retain the name of the character that they have bled and sweat in order to get over.

I’m off on a tangent, I know, but it all leads (sort of) to the point I wanted to make in this post. MWR. WWE. TNA. A face off.

Now I’m not talking about some fantasy rehash of the Monday Night Wars. I’m merely speculating on some of the great matchups that could be over the years if there was more of a 1990’s way of doing things.

Here are ten that I’ve been thinking of the most:

10. Phoenix Twins vs Motor City Machine Guns vs London & Kendrick.

This match would have all the ingredients of a great, fast-paced tag team bout. Personally, I wouldn’t have a favorite in this. Whoever won would be completely fine with me.

9. Northstar Express vs Ted DiBiase Jr & Cody Rhodes.

What could be better than two guys from the WWE who think they are “Priceless” squaring off against one of the most accomplished tag teams in the Midwest? I’d love to see the mind games being played between both teams as each tried to gain an advantage.

8. “Future” Donovan Ruddick vs John Cena.

John Cena is the symbol of success in professional wrestling in the modern era. Personally, I feel like “The Future” symbol of success, Donovan Ruddick, would be up to the task and would make this a very interesting match.

7. Dingo vs Kurt Angle.

The NWA Missouri Champ has proven time and time again that he can adapt to any style to bring pro wrestling fans the absolute best. If Kurt Angle was healthy, this match would be match of the year candidate.

6. Mark Sterling vs William Regal.

Sterling has mentioned in the past that he’s a student of the Regal school of wrestling thought. Personally, I can see it. Sterling vs Regal would be hard-hitting and vicious, with old school ring psychology that makes me more than happy.

5. Michael Strider vs Fit Finlay.

I’ve seen Strider have some great brawls but with all due respect to each and every opponent he had in all of them, this would be the best. Finlay is nearing 50 years old and can still go like nobody else. There is no doubt in my mind that this one would be a classic.

4. Jeremy Wyatt vs Samoa Joe.

They don’t get any tougher than “The Rebel” Jeremy Wyatt. Samoa Joe could put his toughness to the test, but it would leave a great taste in the mouth of wrestling fans with no prior exposure to one of the MWR coverage area’s greatest talents.

3. CM Punk vs AJ Styles vs Tyler Cook.

Mark my words: Tyler Cook will be in WWE or TNA before all is said and done. My faith in this guy as a wrestler would be rewarded if this match was allowed to take place. AJ Styles and CM Punk are no strangers to the indy scene, and their styles would work well with Cook. In addition, Cook has the fitness level to make this match a 30 minute match… or more. The anticipation would nearly kill the audience, and I wouldn’t be surprised to here Tyler Cook’s name announced as the victor.

2. 3-way Rumble (elimination rules):
Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Lance Cade, Chris Jericho & Edge
vs
“Superstar” Steve, Trevor Murdoch, Wade Chism, Dangerous Derek & Haku
vs
Christian Cage, Sting, Booker T, Christopher Daniels & Eric Young

This match is purely a crazy thought on my part. What if we took 5 of WWE’s top guys and matched them up with a team of Harley’s top guys over the years? What if we then added a team from TNA consisting of three top veterans and two of there most successful originals? There are so many stories that could be told in an elimination styled brawl. This one here is probably the least likely to happen, but also one of the most intriguing.

1. Derek Stone & Mason Hunter vs Cryme Tyme.

Most people do not understand how much of a huge fan I am of the Derek Stone/Mason Hunter tag team. I’ve watched a lot of their work and have always enjoyed the antics in the ring and the continuity they had as a tag team. The dynamic of pitting them against thugs who like money and steal things… awesome!

These are just some of the matches I can think of off the top of my head. Hit me up at inadvertent.nerd@gmail.com and let me know some of the matches you’d like to see. I’ll put your name and the match you chose in my next installment of “Combat Tested, Mother Approved!”

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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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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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