Interview – Oisin Delaney

1. Welcome to TheBritishWrestlingRevival Blog Oisin, could you please introduce yourself to start the interview off??
My name is Oisin Delaney, I’m from Laois; it’s in the midlands of Ireland. I came over here for work and got into wrestling after finding The Projo, now Knucklelocks School of Wrestling.

2. As a tag team called The NIC, could you tell me how you two became a team and have you always known each other or do you only know each other through wrestling??
We both started training the same weekend and had been meeting occasionally at training. We had a match against one another and our trainer, Darrell Allen, suggested that we might work as a team. So we started training and putting ourselves out there as a team and haven’t really looked back.

3. Growing up who would you say you idolised in wrestling and would you say that these wrestlers inspired you to train and if not who did??
I remember watching Hulk Hogan as a kid and just being blown away by this superhero, but as I got older and watched a lot of WCW, I loved Goth-Sting and, in particular, Chris Jericho. I loved his runs as cruiserweight and tv champion, everything he did had me hooked. He’s the most innovative wrestler and the fact that he’s still going at 48 really speaks for his work ethic.

4. So far as a team you have competed on a lot of Progress shows and for the likes of GOOD and TIDAL, individually what would you say have been your favourite matches and moments so far teaming up??
Some of my favourites have been for Battle Pro, which is a proper hidden gem in South London. We had a match against Doug Williams and Jonny Storm which was very special for us; two guys who built the scene before it existed as it does today; and against Craft Beating Company (Ashmore and Matt Walters) on “Graps Graps McGee” was a favourite, it was a turning point with that crowd. Our match against Trial By Violence (Gabriel Kidd and Saxon Huxley) for Progress is a big favourite too, felt like a proper scrap.

5. What would you say the future holds for the NIC coming into 2019 and are there any teams in the UK who you’d love to face if given the opportunity either for the first time or again this year??
We just want to wrestle for as many promotions as possible, have loads of matches and get more chances to shine. Couldn’t only name a few teams, we want to wrestle everyone!

6. Finally where can the readers find you live to begin 2019 and where can promoters book you as a team or in singles competition for future dates??
Just this month; January 11th, Battle Pro vs Nathan Cruz & Lucas Steel. January 20th, Pro Wrestling Soul vs TK Cooper & Chuck Mambo. January 26th, we’re in Wrestling League’s Tag Tournament; Hot Tag. We’re regulars at Battle Pro & Wrestleforce so keep an eye out for those! We’re OisinDelaneyPW and CharlieCarterPW on Twitter and Instagram, that’s the best place to keep up with our match announcements!

Interview – Jack Morris

Photo credit; David & Elaine Wilson

1. Welcome to TheBritishWrestlingRevival Jack and thanks for your time, first of all could you give the readers a quick introduction to yourself??

Hi all, I’m Jack Morris & I’m a pro wrestler from Fife, Scotland. I am 25 years old and have been involved in wrestling for 2 years, with 2018 being my first full year wrestling on shows.

2. Let’s talk about beginnings in wrestling, did you watch it growing up and if so were there any wrestlers in particular that you idolised??

Aw yeah, I was obsessed with it growing up; I would watch the shows, play the PlayStation games, collect action figures, t shirts, the lot…

I started watching when I was 5/6 years old. My older brother, Max, would watch it so that’s who introduced me to it & ever since then I’ve been a fan!

Watching when I was younger I was all about the good guys! Rock, Austin, Kane! Mick Foley as Cactus Jack! My mum or dad would wake me and Max up in the middle of the night for the PPVs IF we both went to bed early so one of my earliest memories was seeing Triple H retire Cactus Jack at No Way Out 2000…. & 6 year old Jack was devastated!

3. It’s been said that you’ve gone from being a pro footballer to a wrestler, how did that all come about and what did you make of the transition between them??

Injuries really! I had a 2 year contract at Cowdenbeath, who were playing in the Scottish Championship at the time, and my second year was just plagued with injuries, and I wasn’t offered another contract. I carried on playing for a couple other clubs once fit again but I’d really just fallen out of love with it and that’s when I decided to get involved in wrestling.

I had never stopped watching it and still a massive fan, so since I was no longer playing football I thought to myself, ‘well why not!’ so I swapped my shin pads for knee pads! I didn’t find the transition too bad, I’ve always had a good level of fitness and I’m quite naturally athletic so that aspect was okay… It was more the psychology aspect of wrestling, the theatrical side of things, that took some time learning as it was something totally new to me.

4. You have started to make a name for yourself on the Scottish Wrestling scene, what do you make of the growth of Wrestling in Scotland at the minute??

I think it can only be a good thing! I think the inaugural WWE UK Tournament put a good spotlight on the UK wrestling scene & helped get people through venue doors up and down the country with fans wanting to see the other talent the independent promotions had.

I think you’ll find more often than not there will be at least one promotion running a show somewhere in the country at a weekend which can only be a positive thing I think. Not just from a wrestling fan perspective but as a performer I believe I learn something in every match so the more opportunities to be involved in shows, to have a match, the more I’ll learn and ultimately improve as a performer.

5. Would you say one of your goals this year is to wrestle down in England more this year and do you have any other goals that are top of your list??

Definitely. I’ve said since day one that all I want to do is wrestle, for any promotion anywhere, & if the opportunity to get down south and perform in England comes about, then great, I’ll be buzzing!

Goals for this year is to just improve on my 2018. It was obviously a little bit of a break out year for me, getting my name out there, so hopefully I can just build on last year & make some more debuts in 2019!

6. Finally where can the readers catch you live so far in 2019 and where can promoters book you for future shows??

If you want to see me wrestle you can find me, along with some great talent, wrestling on shows for Reckless Intent Wrestling, Scottish Wrestling Alliance, Respect Pro Wrestling & United Pro Wrestling in 2019! Dates can be found on their respective Facebook pages!

Promoters can email me at;
jackmorriswrestling@gmail.com

& my social media pages are;
Facebook – Jack Morris Wrestling.
Twitter & Instagram – JackMorrisX17

Thank you very much for having me, British Wrestling Revival!

 

 

Interview – “The Visionary” Vaughn Vertigo

Ahead of his return to the UK next week, Vaughn Vertigo has returned to BWR for his second interview and the first wrestler to be re interviewed on the blog. Find out more about his return to the UK and the Canadian Wrestling scene.

1. Welcome back to TheBritishWrestlingRevival Vaughn, could you introduce yourself to the readers who might not already know you??

Aloha! I’m “The Visionary” Vaughn Vertigo out of Toronto, Canada. I’ve been wrestling for about 6 years and started my training when I was 14 years old.

2. The main reason for this interview is you returning to the UK very soon, are you looking forward to heading back first and foremost??

I spent April 2017 and February of this year in the UK trying to get my feet wet in the scene and test out what I would be able to accomplish. I absolutely can’t wait to return this time around as I’m finally entering a stage in my career where I’m feeling the most comfortable I ever have and I can’t wait to show everyone my vision.

3. One of the main parts of your return to the UK is debuting in IPW as part of the Invitational representing Canada, are you excited to debut for IPW and show the fans what they’ve been missing out on??

The first two trips to the UK have really been about finding my footing and testing out what opportunities could present themselves in the future. IPW entering me into the IPW Invitational is exactly the sort of challenge I’ve been looking for. Being one of the absolute best companies in the UK and a company I used to binge watch on Youtube, this opportunity honestly can’t come soon enough. I’m so happy to represent Canada and to be fortunate enough to be given the chance to show what The V Guy has to offer against some of the world’s best up and comers.

4. Being from Canada, what do you make of the current state of the wrestling scene compared to for example the UK??

The Canadian scene is honestly thriving and very healthy with some of the best wrestler’s you’ve unfortunately never heard of. We’ve been closed off much like the UK used to be, however we’re all working towards building it into a global market and the place to be. The UK is phenomenal but you already knew that. It’s why you’ll see other Canadian’s like ELP, Evil Uno, Mike Bailey, Josh Alexander over trying to wrestle with the world’s best. Wen all want to be a part of the hottest wrestling market right now.

5. Have you got a list of dates when you are back in the UK so the readers can see you live??

I’ll be back in the UK very soon for the #IPWInvitational as well for these companies:
Oct 26th – Wrestleforce, Rayleigh, Essex
Oct 27th – DOA Wrestling, Ipswich, Suffolk
Oct 28th – Wrestleforce, Witham, Essex
Nov 1st – TBA, UK
Nov 3rd – Mayhem Wrestling, Monza, Italy
Nov 7th – TBA UK
Nov 11th – Vertigo Pro Wrestling, Jacs Aberdare, Wales

6. Finally have you got a message to the readers to end the interview off??

The UK has been a place I’ve always dreamed of wrestling and with this most recent tour to expand into Italy and Wales is making this journey all the better. I want to compete with the best around and at 22 years old I know I still have a long ways to go but honestly every like, every share, every RT helps more than you can imagine. We’re all trying to build our brand, but without the support of your friends, colleagues and fans it can be a trying process. Let’s show the world how cool wrestling can be yeah? Any who, I’ll see you all soon, as you were ❤

Interview – Bjorn Beauman

1. Welcome to TheBritishWrestlingRevival Bjorn thanks for your time, could you please introduce yourself to the readers??

Why did it take so long for you to get me on this? I can bench 120. I should’ve be the first guy! I’m Bjorn Beauman. Pharaoh of Fashion, wrestling overlord and the guy you’re going to tell your grandkids about interviewing. 

2. How did you get involved in wrestling and who would you say inspired you to become a wrestler??

I was modelling for Gucci in Nice. Vaughn Vertigo, a Canadian pro wrestler, was on the shoot – he was dating one of the models. We were complimenting each others bone structure and he mentioned I have a incredibly powerful looking pecs – perfect for wrestling. I went to a training session at the London School of Lucha Libre and pretty soon I was wrestling for Lucha Britannia and main eventing Triple L vs Bacon Jr. I’m a natural. So Vaughn inspired and my pecs inspired me. 

3. Recently you made your debut for Demand Lucha in a losing effort to Freddie Mercurio, what did you make of your debut in Canada and your opponent??

My debut in Canada wasn’t for Demand Lucha, it was for Barrie Wrestling vs RJ City 2 weeks prior. Then I wrestled for Bordertown Pro, two matches at Tacofest and then Demand Lucha. Do your research! Demand Lucha at Lee’s Palace was great – historic venue, sold out, red hot crowd – exactly where I should be. Freddie won illegally, he slammed me on the stage which I’m pretty sure is against the rules – the stage is a foreign object. Double foreign cos it happened in Canada so it should be a double DQ. So that’s two victories for me. 

4. Also you have made your debut for GOOD Wrestling this year, what did you think of your debut and are you hoping to return soon??

I like GOOD Wrestling as a company – I can relate to what they do. I’d like to return. It was good for what it was – didn’t get to show too much of myself but I’m a show guy, if the show goes well then I’m happy. 

5. What would you say are your future ambitions in wrestling and where do you see yourself in five years time??

Today is Tuesday right? So what I do every Tuesday – eating melon from a designer shoe surrounded by Swedish models who sequentially compliment various parts of my body. 

6. Where can the readers find London’s hottest professional wrestler Bjorn Beauman and where can promoters send booking enquiries??

I have Instagram and Facebook @bjornbeauman, I’m making a twitter under bjornbeauman too – contact either page for bookings. I handle most of my wrestling stuff. Contact L.A White for modelling enquiries. 

7. Finally have you got a message to the readers to end the interview off??

I’m feeling good, I’m feeling fresh after my stint in Canada. I’ve got some new things planned that I hope will take me to the next level. I’m just working hard and benching loads. Watch me.

If you want to support BWR as well as Bjorn go and follow us on Twitter : @BritWresRevival

and also like us on Facebook :https://www.facebook.com/BritishWrestlingRevival/

Interview – Garrett ‘G-Wiz’ Bond

Photo Credit: Brett Hadley Photography

1. Welcome to TheBritishWrestlingRevival Garrett, to start off with could you please give me a quick introduction for the readers??

Sure thing, I’m originally from South East London but have lived in Nottingham for nearly 10 years now. My Dad (Dave Bond) was a wrestler, firstly amateur, and then he got into pro wrestling. He featured on world of sport and was part of a tag team called the Caribbean Sunshine Boys with Johnny Kincaid so I guess that’s where I got my passion for wrestling, firstly watching, then becoming a wrestler. That goes straight into the second question. 

2. You are known as a second generation wrestler with your dad part of the Caribbean Sunshine Boys, is this something you are massively proud of and did your dad have any hand in your training??

I’m absolutely proud to be a 2nd generation British wrestler. Even now I have mates from my childhood that tell me stories of their dads watching my dad on tv and it’s just a real proud feeling. In 2014 my dad was post humously inducted into the British wrestling hall of fame (which was the spark I got for getting into the wrestling business myself), for that reason obviously dad didn’t have a hand in my pro wrestling training however there’s plenty of footage of him that I’ve seen and also, life lessons that transfer, it’s just a shame he never got to see me lace up the boots!

3. On Sunday 23rd September, you face Jack Starz at Legacy Wrestling having winning the Royal Rumble to secure the shot, do you have any thoughts on your opponent ahead of the match??

You know what, I’ve been pumped for the match with Jack Starz since winning the rumble. Legacy Wrestling is a great promotion and I’m hoping to pick up the win and the title but more than anything, I rate Jack Starz highly and getting to face him is something I’m relishing and it’ll be a real tough test but one I can’t wait for.

4. Also speaking of future matches, you team with Sheikh El Sham to face Barmy Army who are the current Pro Wrestling 4 U tag team champions, do you have any words for Matthew Brooks and Noah??

As for the PW4U tag titles, we The Sovereign, aren’t there to play about, we want gold and lots of it so Matthew Brookes and Noah are going to have to bring their A Game because we plan on bringing that gold home.

5. You recently lost your House of Pain Heavyweight title to Paul Malen meaning that the Militia now hold all the titles in the promotion, firstly how eager are you to gain the title back and are you looking forward to your 6 man steel cage match with them in October??

I did lose the heavyweight title to the militia, but you’ve gotta remember I also lost the tag titles to them on the same night and it was to dirty cheating tactics so you best believe I’m hungry to get my heavyweight title back ASAP! All I want is a fair one on one where I know I can beat him but I’m certainly looking forward to getting 3 of those guys in a steel cage where they can’t run! 

6. What would you say your future ambitions are in wrestling and where do you see yourself in five years time??

With the future, being a 2nd generation Brit wrestler, my goal is to get on world of sport and show the world what I’ve got. It’ll really bring my journey full circle and It’d be so amazing to do what Dad did some 30+yrs ago. I know a lot of people dream of the WWE, but WOS Wrestling means far more to me personally and if I get the chance, it’ll be one to watch. 

7. Where can promoters find Garrett ‘G-Wiz’ Bond and where can readers support you??

The best place for promoters is to contact me on FB. 

8. Have you got a message or any future dates you wish to plug to end the interview off??

As for dates, catch me at PW4U on September 7th, House of Pain on the 15th, and Legacy Wrestling on the 23rd (more to be announced).

G-Wiz

If you want to support BWR as well as Garrett go and follow us on Twitter : @BritWresRevival

and also like us on Facebook :https://www.facebook.com/BritishWrestlingRevival/

Interview – ‘Chaos’ Kai Payne

Photo Credit: Y2Grae Photography

1. Welcome to TheBritishWrestlingRevival Blog Kai, could you please introduce yourself to the readers??

Hey! I am Kai Payne. I’ve been a professional wrestler for 5 years, and am 21 years old.

2. How did you get into wrestling growing up and how did you then start wrestling training??

My dad originally took me to a local training school when I was 16. It was a way to get my head round something new whilst my parents sorted out divorce arrangements. I’d been setting up wrestling shows between my friends as a kid so most of the agility stuff came naturally to me. It didn’t take long in training to start turning a few heads.

3. You were initially part of a tag team called the Aerial Hybrids with Jay Garner with you still teaming with him occasionally, how did that come about and would you still like to team with him more often??

When HOPE Wrestling started a Milton Keynes branch, I was brought in because I had mad a name for myself in that area for several other companies. Jay was one of their trainees at the time. They put us together so that I could shift some of my knowledge of being a crowd favourite on to Jay, and see where the story unfolded. What wasn’t planned, was me and Jay becoming friends outside of the job and securing ourselves tag team bookings elsewhere. We’ve performed across England and even overseas in Italy. We are both good enough to stand on our own feet and get bookings but it’s always nice to have a tag team booking here and there!

4. Speaking of Jay, you have been involved in one of Sacrifice Pro’s most talked about storylines to date called Brick Lane, what was the mission of the group and how do you rate Sacrifice’s rise as a promotion during its time open??

Sacrifice is quite frankly the promotion I call home. BrickLane is something very close to my heart. I saw 3 guys doing the things I did a couple of years prior. They have good work ethics and are clearly talented. My plan was to see if I could get them all over on my side and see where the story could take us. The best bit is, no one expected it to be them three. Especially with Jay’s departure from the company, and the Bromantics winning tag-team gold earlier on in the night. The initial shock that I was the leader had settled in, and I could just stand there and appreciate the reaction my friends were getting. It was pretty satisfying. As for sacrifice pro? Just keep watching. They will continue to do things no one else is doing, and they were the first company to really give me the ball and run with it. If you watch the moments I have had the pleasure of being involved with you’ll know that’s where I’ve had some of my best work. For this I will always be grateful.

5. You made your debut for PW Clash recently and formed an alliance with Tengu called XILE and next up in October you face Marcus Antony and Gene Munny who are out for revenge, do you have any words for your opponents??

PWCLASH is up and coming in the world of British wrestling. But they have an amazing opportunity to make a big impact. Amazing venue, great storytelling and an unreal roster. It’s been interesting to enter another faction outside of my own, but I pride myself in ever expanding. If you want a game plan from Xile, you’ll need to ask our leader: CJ Carter.

6. What would you say are your main ambitions in wrestling and where do you see yourself in five years time??

5 Years time? Hmm. That’s a tough question. I always set myself targets and so far I have never missed one. So I guess if I tell you my targets we can just check them off together. I would like to debut for one of the top 5 in the UK. (Progress, ICW, Defiant, WOS, OTT.) I would also like some more tag team gold with Jay, and the opportunity to work someone recognised on a global scale. When I was 18 i locked up with Sabu. It would be cool to have a similar experience soon!

7. Where can promoters book ‘Chaos’ Kai Payne and where can fans find you on Social Media??

Type in “Kai Payne” on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Google, Google images and any search engine you can find! You can contact me on kaipaynewrestling@gmail.com or direct message any of my social media accounts. I will respond. Just remember my character has a Multiple Personality Disorder. So you can book whatever you want in Kai Payne!

8. Finally why should every promotion in the country be booking Kai Payne on their shows would you say??

Good question. Simply put: I’m doing things that no one else on the scene is doing. I have originality. My move set is unique, I talk with more passion than anyone else because I believe it. I can fly with cruiserweights and I can lift with heavyweights. I can out show off the showmen, and I can outwrestle the technicians. My character is flexible and I pride myself in working ANY style this British wrestling scene has to offer. Truth is, you’re getting something now that pretty soon everyone else is gonna want if you book Kai Payne. I’ve never had a quiet reaction from 10 fans to a 1000. I’m not another face to go by, I am a professional wrestler you simply can’t forget. I am the Prime Mover, Kai Payne.

Thankyou.

If you want to support BWR as well as Kai go and follow us on Twitter : @BritWresRevival

and also like us on Facebook :https://www.facebook.com/BritishWrestlingRevival/

 

DVD Review: WWE WrestleMania 34

Welcome to the latest WWE DVD review, it has been a while since anything has been posted but this now changes now I have got some personal issues out of the way which have prohibited regular posts. Today it is the turn of WWE’s latest release and their biggest event of the year in the form of WrestleMania 34.

After today, a review of Randy Savage: Unreleased will be posted over the weekend which was released before this at the end of May. As well as that before the next release on the 25th June, any titles that have not been reviewed that I possess will be reviewed so expect a lot more alongside the return of regular interviews in the coming weeks.

As usual, I will give my thoughts on every match as well as the overall rating as well as whether I think you should purchase this title and why to end it all off.

To start off with it was the Intercontinental Championship three way between The Miz, Finn Balor & Seth Rollins. This was an excellent opener to the main card with a lot of fast paced action and in the end it was Rollins that claimed the title becoming the new champion. Rollins hit the Stomp on Balor and then on the Miz in quick succession with the Miz taking multiple finishers in losing showing how high stakes that it is that it takes a lot for the wrestlers involved to lose. Rollins as a result of winning the IC title has now won the Grand Slam (every title in the WWE). It is a shame for the Miz that he lost but it will bring him hopefully a new feud now he has lost the title.

Next up we had one of my favourite matches on the card. Charlotte vs Asuka. I am a big fan of both and both played their part in a brilliant match that saw Charlotte finally break the streak. Some of the best parts were the Spanish Fly by Charlotte off the apron and of course her Figure Eight submission at the end to claim the win. Charlotte and Asuka have both come a long way especially Charlotte who has created her own career for herself after being accused of not being a great wrestler initially and of course having her dad involved but I myself think she is one of if not the best in the world Women’s wise and as is Asuka so it was no surprise this match was class.

Randy Orton vs Bobby Roode vs Jinder Mahal vs Rusev was next up for the US title and it was an alright match. The crowd was hot for Rusev which was no surprise really with the whole Rusev Day angle which I have loved personally and am pretty annoyed that they seem to be ending it prematurely. Barring that though, all wrestlers had their opportunities to have their chance to shine on the WrestleMania stage but putting it on straight after the Charlotte vs Asuka spectacular kind of killed the momentum of it. Saying that though I am glad that Jinder has claimed another title, I was a huge fan of him in the early days and so I am glad he is getting a push again.

Next up was my favourite match on the card. Ronda Rousey & Kurt Angle vs Stephanie McMahon & Triple H. I have been a big Ronda Rousey fan for years so was overjoyed when she joined the WWE and her debut lived up massively to expectations. It didn’t look like a debut and looked like she had been there years, Stephanie played her part in the match as the vindictive boss of the WWE and she also sold very well for Rousey considering Steph isn’t a frequent in ring performer. It was also good to see Kurt Angle once again back in a WWE ring, one of my favourite wrestlers of all time so definitely popped for the entrance as usual.

The next match was The Usos vs The New Day vs The Bludgeon Brothers. This was a dominant performance from the repackaged Harper and Rowan with them laying to waste two teams that are two of the  best of the past two years showing how much they want to push them. Winning claimed them the SmackDown tag team titles and they did so by hitting two powerbombs in quick succession from either member to get a win in just under ten minutes.

The Undertaker vs John Cena was a quick win for the Deadman against a legend of the game which was surprising and not what I want. I have always been more of a fan of Cena throughout my time watching WWE so this left a sour taste in my mouth. It vindicates Taker’s loss last year but it sucks that we didn’t get an extended match between the duo.

Following that it was Daniel Bryan and Shane McMahon vs Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn which was a great match and it was great to see Bryan back in the ring after a very long absence. Bryan did what he has done in his whole career in this match he was seemingly down and out and came back to win the match. At the end of the match he hit the running knee to Zayn and then slapped on the Yes Lock to win after just under 20 minutes. It was exactly the feel good story that was needed in the return of a wrestler that has suffered so many knock backs but didn’t look like he has lost a step.

In addition following that it was Nia Jax vs Alexa Bliss with Jax claiming the RAW Women’s title for the first time. It was a quick win with her hitting the Samoan drop to claim the title and her having most of the offense despite Bliss keeping her hand in with some offence on the knee. This will probably mark different paths for the both of them with Jax looking to defend her title and Bliss potentially going to SmackDown to go after that title. Not as long as I expected it to be but it shows Jax’s dominance as a new champion.

WWE Championship time next in the form of AJ Styles vs Shinsuke Nakamura which was billed as a massive dream match. It wasn’t five star by any means but was very watchable. Styles worked on the left knee of Nakamura for the most part and quick exchanges at the end including an exploder Suplex followed by a set up for the Kinshasa knee was halted with the Phenomenal One hitting the Styles Clash to claim the victory. This probably suffered due to it’s position on the card, swap this with the Intercontinental title and it would have been brilliant but still a good clash.

Following that it was a moment that will live in the memory from this WrestleMania and that was Braun Strowman ‘picking’ a kid from the crowd to team with. Strowman dominated with Nicholas of course not getting any offence. This shows how dominant he is as he claimed his first title in the WWE. It makes a bit of a mockery of the tag team division especially for an established team like The Bar but if they were trying to create a WrestleMania moment they certainly did so.

The main event between Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar followed a similar script to most matches involving the latter which was a shame. It was a dominant performance from the Beast Incarnate but one that showed Reigns to have a lot of fight despite him being up against it. He took six F5’s on the way to losing kicking out of everyone until he couldn’t take another and despite him getting two spears in he did not win the match. As usual due to his status as one of the leading lights in the company, Lesnar did not lose his title despite rumours at the time that he was going to go to the UFC after Mania. He didn’t and then he faced Reigns at the Greatest Royal Rumble in a god awful cage match. It’s just a shame it had to end the show like this and the crowd thought so to.

Rating – 7/10 – A good show overall but not as good as some of WWE’s efforts as of late which was a shame. Some matches suffered but only due to their positioning on the card, the start was better than the end with Charlotte vs Asuka and Rousey/Angle vs Steph/Hunter being the highlights of the show. The title matches barring the Intercontinental title left a lot to be desired including two squash tag team title matches, it shows dominance for certain teams/wrestlers but it does leave a sour taste on those who have become invested in certain stories.

I am looking forward to my next WWE review and you can find out when the next one will be by going to :

Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/BritishWrestlingRevival
Twitter : @BritWresRevival
Instagram : @BritWresRevivalBlog

Finally I would like to thank WWE Home Video and Fetch Publicity for their continued support of myself and my reviews! So please go and Support WWE Home Video : https://www.facebook.com/WWEHomeVideoUK?fref=ts and @WWEHomeVideoUK

Interview – Fraser Thomas

1. Welcome to TheBritishWrestlingRevival Fraser, could you start by introducing yourself to the readers??

First and foremost, thank you for having me. My name is Fraser Thomas, I am professional wrestler based in Wolverhampton and train at the Fight Club Pro Dojo under Travis Banks, Martin Zaki, Clarkeward and the Hunter Brothers. I have been in and amongst the British Wrestling scene for roughly 11 years. Having leaving the scene in 2014 for 3 years to lost weight and look after my terminally ill Mum I am currently viewing this as my re-debuting year.

2. Lets start with you getting into wrestling, how did you get into wrestling growing up and who would you say inspired you??

I first discovered wrestling around the age of 6 or 7 when I was scrolling through the channels early on a Saturday morning looking for cartoons and I remember being mesmerised by the colours and the larger-than-life characters. As I grew older I gained a greater appreciation for the small, more technically proficient wrestlers such as Eddie Guerrero. I’d say my biggest influence on my taking up wrestling in first place would probably be Samoa Joe. As a larger dude, seeing Joe, flying through the air doing running single leg drop kicks and kicking the crap out of people, it heavily influence me to try wrestling training but I quickly learnt whilst capable of those things I had no ability to know when and where to use the more athletic moves at the right time and rested on the easier style of an 1980’s type larger wrestling such as King Kong Bundy or Earthquake.

3. How did you then transition into starting wrestling training and do you have any tips for the readers who might want to go down that path??

Without a doubt, wrestling training is the single, toughest feat I have ever undertaken. You will either love it or hate it. It’s incredibly taxing in your body especially your joints and lower back. If readers are seriously considering training then they have to considered as they willing to deal with the chronic pain that comes with the adrenaline rush that is performing in front of a live crowd? Furthermore, it’s of paramount importance that potential trainees find the right school, with reputable trainers and to train as much as possible in as many places as possible. In my preparations to return to the ring I moved from Hertfordshire to Wolverhampton to training at Fight Club: Pro to ensure I was getting the best training possible as regularly as possible but before my move I trained back up at my old school in Gloucester of Pro Evolution Wrestling as well as Knucklelocks in Brixton. I’ve even travelled to Dragon Pro in Cardiff just to find the best training available. If it’s something that your readers aren’t comfortable with doing just yet, then enrolling in gymnastics, theatre/drama and judo would be advantageous for them to transition to wrestling training when the time is right for them.

4. You ended up losing a massive amount of weight after initially weighing over 30 stone, how proud are you of what you have achieved and do you hope to be an inspiration to other people in the process??

My weight loss is something I am enormously proud of as without having done something I have no doubt in my mind would have continues to have gotten bigger and bigger until it wouldn’t have been possible to do even the simplest of tasks. During this process, I was always aware of highlighting and documenting this process should I decide I wanted to return to the ring which I did via blogs/vlogs. This is just to provide an extreme weight loss journey that was relatable to someone looking to make the first step and I was extremely humbled at the responses that people sent me and how I had inspired them and to this day it makes me proud to have started that. I still see myself as a larger person due to my excess skin but I am so much happier in my body now then I was when I started this back in 2013.

5. You recently made your debut for GOOD Wrestling in Milton Keynes, what did you make of that and also the atmosphere in the Craufurd Arms??

I did!! It was tremendously fun! I got to get into the ring with other wrestlers I hadn’t previously wrestled such as Rhia O’Reilly AND wrestle Lee Hunter. who I initialled wrestled on the circuit during my first foray into professional wrestling so it was fun to wrestle a different style with him. I enjoyed the close proximity the crowd were to the ring as it allowed for a more intimate setting which I enjoy as wrestler and would jump at the opportunity to go back to GOOD Wrestling at a later date!

6. You have also wrestled for Attack Pro Wrestling, one of the fastest rising promotions in the British Wrestling scene, how is it to be a part of and do you think GOOD could have a similar rise??

Since returning to wrestling, I’ve viewed ATTACK! as a second home to Fight Club: Pro. Everyone there has been so welcoming and readily available to provide advice and feedback. When ATTACK! Management asked me if I wanted to wrestle Bronco Brendan in the pre-show I was humbled and delighted that they put their faith in me to wrestle on a card that featured some of the best named talent in the UK and the world. Whether I’m filming the show as part of the production or just helping with merchandise, I’m honoured to be a small part of the weird and wonderful world of ATTACK! Pro Wrestling and in the future hope to become a regular name for them on their shows. GOOD definitely have a similar feel to the ATTACK! Shows as their both shot and edited incredibly well, with heavy audience participation with tremendously talented wrestlers on their shows. They way things are progressing for GOOD, they could become a tremendously fast growing promotion and I’m excited to see where time takes them.

7. What would you say are your future ambitions in Wrestling and who would be your dream match and why??

My goals are to wrestle as much as possible and as many different people as possible in a variety of scenarios and match stipulations as it will only benefit me as a professional wrestler and improve my capabilities with each match. I wanted to continue to wrestle for Anarchy Pro, the fantastic Riptide Wrestling in Brighton, ATTACK!, GOOD, Wrestling League amongst many others. One day in the future, when my abilities warrant it I would love to debut for Fight Club: Pro, PROGRESS Wrestling, Rev Pro, HOPE, NGW, NORTH, ICW, Dragon Pro, Kamikaze, IPW:UK, Defiant, HUSTLE to name but a few. The sheer plethora of promotions at fans doorsteps makes for an exciting time to be a fan of British Wrestling and I’m thrilled to be given the opportunities to showcase myself and make my Mum proud. As for dream opponents? Is no secret that I have great admiration for Mark Haskins, in my mind he is the best professional wrestler in the country. Also being he is one of my best friends and he even married my sister from another Mister, Vicky. So the opportunity to build a program and have a series of matches with him would be truly magical. Other names would be Chris Brookes, Kid Lykos, Tyler Bate, Trent Seven, Pete Dunne, El Phantasmo, Aussie Open, Dan Maloney, Morgan Webster, ZSJ and so many others. The talent that is out there now is staggering and I want to fight all of them.

8. Finally where can the readers find Fraser Thomas on social media and where can promoters book you for future shows??

My IG and Twitter is @_FraserThomas_. I don’t have a Facebook page set up but my account is a personal one for friends and family so please don’t be downhearted if I don’t accept your request but my DM’s are open on my other social media so feel free to message! For promoters I have an email address of FraserThomasPro@gmail.com but you could always slide into my DM’s also!

I hope you enjoyed this interview and I would like to thank Fraser for answering the questions for you to read, please go and support him on social media if possible!

If you want to support BWR as well as Fraser go and follow us on Twitter : @BritWresRevival

and also like us on Facebook :https://www.facebook.com/BritishWrestlingRevival/

Interview – ‘Young Legend’ Anthony Mafia

Photo Credit: Mark Kidsley – Photographer (www.mark-kidsley.com)

1. Welcome to TheBritishWrestlingRevival Anthony, could you start by introducing yourself to the readers??

Yo. My name is Anthony Mafia. I hit hard, spit bars and leave scars. I’m a just Wrestler who happens to know how to Rap.

2. How did you get into wrestling growing up and who would you say inspired you??

I grew up actually playing Wrestling games first then following along with Wrestling on TV. Started with WWF Attitude and Smackdown 1 on PS1 and started watching alongside each other in ’99. Once i was familiar with the Characters, their moves & music i was invested. It’s extremely easy for Wrestling to leave a tremendous impression on us when we’re young, it’s captivating. It’s why a lot of Wrestlers will tell you they started watching when they were kids. It’s the perfect alternative to Magic.

As far as influences go, Shawn Michaels is the first and least surprising answer but there’s no shame in that. The man was pretty much the Best all round Wrestler in the world at one point. A true total package and moved around the ring and sold in a way no one else did at the time and is often imitated now. But my major influences was the Rock and Stone Cold. They were literally Superstars and Treasures of the business as far as commanding respect from the crowd and dripping with Charisma.

That’s what i’m more fascinated by. Moves and athletic spots are a credit and are one thing but to have everybody in the palm of your hand, shout your catchphrases back at you and have iconic everlasting appeal is quite another. Once you figure that part out your set for life.

3. How did you then start training and would you recommend it to any of the readers??

I started training in 2009 at The Rough & Ready Martial Arts School in Northampton, which is now the Training School of WIN Wrestling. Jem “MTX” Brown took the Pro Wrestling classes there at the time and was my very first trainer. After a while i ventured out to Leicester and started training with Joseph Conners and that’s where it all first started to make sense to me, the things i didn’t understand yet.. The difference between being a good Wrestler and a good Worker.

Jem taught me everything i knew up to that point about what makes you Wrestler. You know the Moves, The Intensity, The look and how to come out of your shell and be an alter ego but Joseph taught us about Storytelling, about where to put moves and how to improvise. I credit Conners for giving me a greater understanding of the Physiological aspect of Wrestling which is both a science and an art form in of itself. The importance of Character and gimmick came from a Mad Man Manson seminar i attended and it was invaluable. Completely changed my perspective on Wrestling and getting people to relate to you, react and remember you is long term more important then anything else we do in the ring.

4. You faced Beano at the most recent GOOD Wrestling show in a losing effort, do you have any words for him after that and what do you make of the crowd at GOOD??

I was really excited when i was booked against him and the match was a lot of fun. I’m not sure we could’ve had the exact same match in many other places and get away with what we did and got the reactions we did. Beano is pro man, very talented, solid and reliable. Exactly the kind of guy you wanna work with and he’ll be a top UK star sooner or later.

The crowd at GOOD are darlings man. It’s a unique, intimate, boutique but kind of underground punk rock feel. They’re truly supportive and make it so easy for us to perform for them. It’s one of my favourite places to Wrestle. Plus you can experiment more too. Try some truly eccentric stuff and comedic nonsense that may would be frowned upon elsewhere, but the fans they love that. They know where they can go if they wanna see more traditional serious Wrestling but they come here instead. But we do get down to business and give them the solid stuff too. They get the best of everything.

5. You recently made your debut for HOPE’s FUTR brand in a losing effort to Fowler, what did you make of your debut and are you hoping to return in the near future??

I think it was challenge me and Fowler were both up for because it was a clash of styles. Fowler is an incredible Martial artist and a legit fighter and he’s incorporated that into his style, he’s no nonsense so we had to figure out how to balance some of creativity and the character based stuff i tend to lean towards and i think we did well.

I was proud to be a part of FUTR and was real excited about working there and i’m looking forward to going back. It’s all about using the Brand recognition of HOPE to help give exposure to whole generation of incredible talent that a lot of people may not be familiar with. A lot of us are from the Midlands but the UK itself is a treasure trove of underappreciated and underutilised talent. We all know how good we are and all we want is a stage to hone our craft and earn our crust.

6. Also you are one half of the current APEX tag team champions with Kent Nelson, how did it feel to win those and what do you make of your tag team partner??

Those Tag Team Championships are actually my first Championship victory in my career and it was completely unexpected especially considering the talent in the match. Sometimes you look at a Title match you’re booked in and you see who else is in it and you don’t even entertain the idea of them going with you.

Not to mention the story we told, as i turned on my regular partner at the time Morgan Black to win the Titles with Kent Nelson, it didn’t make any sense whatsoever how we did but i wasn’t gonna protest when i’m about to win my first gold strap! So yeah, extraordinary circumstances.

I actually enjoy teaming with Kent. He’s bigger than me so we have a dynamic and he’s a cynic. We’ve got a similar sense of humour so we get on and that always contributes to your teams chemistry and productivity. Also, Kent’s actually crazy young! He’s good now so just imagine how much better he’s going to get. That’s the scary part.

7. What would you say are your future ambitions in Wrestling for 2018 and beyond??

Last year was a real good year, i reinvented myself got into even better shape and started figuring it all out. I used to get really frustrated with every aspect of wrestling and used to take it all seriously. Now i just keep out of the bollocks and just enjoy it and take pride instead.

All i wanna do is Wrestle and last year i debuted for many new promotions, this year i wanna debut in more and more and wrestle every weekend. It’s all i think about pretty much.

And beyond? I’ll be honest and not many people are gonna like it but i want Fame and Recognition. I want people to be talking about me the same way they talk about Pete Dunne, i want them to worship me the same way they do Conor McGregor. And i wanna leave a legacy like Kanye. That’s how good i wanna be but it’s all up to me, no one else.

8. Finally where can the readers follow the ‘Young Legend’, Anthony Mafia and where can promoters book you for future shows??

I, would mad appreciate it if you could follow me on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YoungLegendMafia
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MafiaMurderBag
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mafiamurderbag
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/anthonymafia

And if anybody would like to book me to mess it up at their shows, then please just DM me on any of the above. Ain’t nobody got time for Kayfabe Gmail addresses.
Safe.

I hope you enjoyed this interview and I would like to thank Anthony for answering the questions for you to read, please go and support him on social media if possible!

If you want to support BWR as well as Anthony go and follow us on Twitter : @BritWresRevival

and also like us on Facebook :https://www.facebook.com/BritishWrestlingRevival/

Interview – Wheeler YUTA

1. Welcome to TheBritishWrestlingRevival, could you start by introducing yourself to the readers??

Thanks for having me! My name is Wheeler Yuta, I’m 21 years old and I have been wrestling for about five years now.

2. How did you get into wrestling growing up and who would you say inspired you??

My cousins first turned me on to the WrestleMania XIX video game when I was about four years old. I had no idea that real people actually did this on TV. The first wrestler that really hooked me was Rey Mysterio. After that, I dove deeper and deeper. When I was a teenager, I found the internet and was really spoiled in the amount of wrestling I could watch. I really enjoyed watching guys like Ricky Steamboat in the US, but I also fell in love with the World of Sport style from England. Of that group of guys, Rollerball Rocco has to be my favorite. I also developed a love of the Junior Heavyweight style in Japan. Tatsumi Fujinami and the original Tiger Mask stood out as some of my favorites.

3. How did you then start training and would you recommend it to any of the readers??

I began training in the defunct AIWF Academy in Myrtle Beach, SC when I was sixteen. When I was 18, I moved to Philadelphia to train under WWE Superstar Drew Gulak. I also received additional training at the Chikara WrestleFactory with the likes of Mike Quackenbush, Chuck Taylor, and Fire Ant. I had great experiences with all of my trainers and would recommend them to anyone. I was lucky to have a variety of inputs, which I think was invaluable.

4. You were part of the recent NOLA festivities surrounding WrestleMania, how was that and what were your thoughts on the matches you had while you were there??

I had a great time in New Orleans. Being a part of the biggest wrestling week of the year is always a blessing. I didn’t come up victorious, but sharing the ring with the likes of MJF, Tessa Blanchard, Mia Yim, Hornswoggle, Chris Dickinson, and a plethora of others was a wonderful experience regardless.

5. You also took part in Best of the Best recently losing in the first round, how was it for you to wrestle in one of the best tournaments there is and are you hoping to return in the future??

Wrestling in Best of the Best has been a goal of mine for years. Last time I was at the event, I was working ringside security. To be in the ring this year gave me a great sense of pride and accomplishment. Even though they have a reputation for being incredibly tough, I’ve always loved the CZW fans. They tell you how it is and refuse to let anything get past them. I can’t wait to get back in a Combat Zone ring and continue to prove myself.

6. You wear a mask as part of your wrestling attire, how did that all come about and was it inspired by anything??

I like to think of my mask as a piece of armor. It helps me block out any distractions and focus on the task at hand. The design and lights are all inspired by my love of cyberpunk culture.

7. What would you say are your future ambitions in Wrestling and where do you see yourself in 5 years time??

I’d love to know where I’m going to be in five years but honestly I have no idea. In a job as unpredictable as wrestling, you never know where you’re gonna wind up. Honestly my goals are just to see as many cool places and meet as many cool people as I can. I’ve already been able to see many different states and countries on another man’s dime, and I certainly can’t complain about that.

8. Where can the readers find YUTA on social media and where can promoters book you for future shows??

To find me on social media, head to @WheelerYuta on Twitter and Instagram. Like me at Facebook.com/YUTAWrestling and shoot me an email at YUTAWrestling@gmail.com. For promoters, email is definitely the easiest way to contact me, but any other medium is fine.

9. Speaking of future shows have you got any dates you wish to plug??

I’ve got plenty of upcoming shows, but my schedule is constantly changing. If you head to my twitter (@WheelerYuta), my pinned tweet has my entire schedule and is consistently updated. This weekend, I’ll be debuting for Maryland Championship Wrestling and returning to NOVA Pro in Virginia.

10. Finally have you got any merchandise the readers can order and do you have a message to end the interview off??

I have online stores at teespring.com/YUTAmaskmerch as well as teespring.com/yutacartoon if you’re interested in purchasing a t-shirt. At shows, I have shirts, pictures, buttons, stickers, and more. Just find me and I’ll hook you up!

I hope you enjoyed this interview and I would like to thank YUTA for answering the questions for you to read, please go and support him on social media if possible!

If you want to support BWR as well as YUTA go and follow us on Twitter : @BritWresRevival

and also like us on Facebook :https://www.facebook.com/BritishWrestlingRevival/