Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is referred to as the “Steel City.” Along with its 300 related steel businesses, 466 bridges, 30 skyscrapers, and two inclined railways, at one time in our nation’s history, the city was the leader in metal production.

Steep curved streets, the three rivers, and the vibrant colored landscape portray a uniqueness that sets Pittsburgh apart from other metropolitans. The population falls under a half million people, but it still keeps the feeling of a neighborhood vibe. Between the professional football and hockey teams, they have set a precedence in winning with 11 championships in total. Those achievements have established a reputation for excellence.

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Within the past decade, professional wrestling has seen an insurgence of women athletes. These ladies are not eye candy, they are legit fighters and in some cases are just as tough as the men who compete. Today, it is not uncommon to see intergender matches and to watch men and women square off to fight each other. Unlike most sports, wrestling has evened the playing field. It looks as if the women of today’s wrestling are finally receiving the respect that they deserve.

Currently, wrestling for women is a far cry from what it was just 25 years ago. Then the lady wrestlers were referred to as divas and they were flaunted as sex objects as opposed to being taken seriously as legitimate prizefighters.

Read more…

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is referred to as the “Steel City.” Along with its 300 related steel businesses, 466 bridges, 30 skyscrapers, and two inclined railways, at one time in our nation’s history, the city was the leader in metal production.

Steep curved streets, the three rivers, and the vibrant colored landscape portray a uniqueness that sets Pittsburgh apart from other metropolitans. The population falls under a half million people, but it still keeps the feeling of a neighborhood vibe. Between the professional football and hockey teams, they have set a precedence in winning with 11 championships in total. Those achievements have established a reputation for excellence.

Pittsburgh has deep blue-collar roots. No matter the industry that currently fuels the city’s economy, it will never lose the hard-working attitude which made the city a success. There is a sense of pride that dwells in western Pennsylvania and it is the main characteristic that is prevalent there.

The Steel City has also claimed several professional wrestlers as their own. Whether the mat stars were born or just reside there, they are now Pittsburgh property! Bruno Sammartino, Johnny Valiant, Shane Douglas, and Brit Baker are a shortlist of grapplers who share and have shared ties to the city. However, there is a new face on the scene and she is determined to make a name for herself and leave her mark on the sport of wrestling as well. Introducing 18-year-old, Nikita Knight, the Spartan Warrior.

Who is Nikita Knight? The answer: the wrestler who debuted against Thunder Rosa on AEW Dark just two days after she became legal to compete professionally.

“When I saw my name on the board next to Thunder Rosa’s name, I thought I was going to pass out or pee my pants,” Nikita Knight said. “Rosa dictated the match and walked me right through it. I wasn’t concerned about that at all. I just wanted to make sure that I did my part.”

One would have to admit that the pressure that comes with that particular situation has to be weighty, however, many wrestlers there the day of her taping helped make Nikita’s experience at AEW very positive. In a wrestling promotion where the elite of the sport gather, the young rookie was astonished by the respect, cohesiveness, and professionalism displayed throughout the company.

Assuring her that all would be well, Q.T. Marshall and Dustin Rhodes consoled and advised Nikita for her upcoming contest with the acclaimed wrestler, Thunder Rosa. Many wrestlers do not get to experience an atmosphere quite like that when they make their debut in pro wrestling. So, for Nikita it was both special and memorable.

Starting in bingo halls, high school gyms, and small venues is usually the norm for new talent. A scene like AEW or even the WWE is a goal for most pro wrestlers. Many athletes put in years of in-ring work before they perform with major companies such as those. AEW currently showcases professional wrestling by matching superstars with up-and-coming wrestlers from around the country to be featured on Youtube. The concept is not new. WWF was famous for their squash matches, but they were not known for developing young talent amid Hulkamania. It appears as if AEW is scouting and preparing wrestlers to potentially be their future stars.

While Nikita was 17 years old with just 10 months of training to her credit, she had an opportunity to attend a wrestling seminar that was put on by Q.T. Marshall. Marshall works as a wrestler and a producer for AEW. He is also a trainer and co-owner of The Nightmare Factory with Cody Rhodes and Glacier in Georgia.

Performing some basic drills at the seminar did not go as planned for the teenager on that particular day. However, she continued through the session and sought counsel with her trainer Brandon K. when it was over.

“It was pretty embarrassing, but afterward Q.T. asked me how old I was. I told him when my birthday was and he asked for my promo pictures and videos of any matches,” Knight admitted. “I sent him what he asked for that evening and he asked if I wanted to come for the next AEW Dark taping, and I said yes!” It made me feel good that somebody with his kind of experience thought that I had potential.”

With Marshall believing in Nikita, it gave her a boost in her confidence. But let us not forget who we are talking about. Nikita is from “Steel City!” She’s tough and has proved it! Hard work and determination are characteristics that have been instilled in Nikita since she was a young girl. By the age of four, she was training in gymnastics. The school where she was enrolled believed if the skill was not perfected at an early age the athlete would never see progress. The practices were four hours long and were extremely intense for any age level. The 30 minutes of conditioning was strenuous but necessary to maintain the high demand for stamina during competition.

“I blame gymnastics for every good and bad thing in my life that has ever happened to me. It prepared me for almost anything stressful, “Knight responded “When I was performing on the mat, I was the only one out there being judged. I knew when I sucked and when I didn’t.”

She achieved a level nine out of ten in her gymnastics skill level at the age of 14. Upon starting high school, she was ready to take on a new challenge. That test was competitive cheerleading. Nikita found the adrenaline rush and the same competitive edge that gymnastics offered her.

Traveling was a big part of cheerleading and due to her team’s success, they earned several offers to perform in prestigious tournaments. One of those was at the world level which took place in Orlando, Florida. One year before the cheerleading season ended, Nikita suffered a disappointing setback when she broke her fibula during a routine. Nikita's coaches asked her to compete in the upcoming cheerleading contests. Reluctantly she agreed, but after each contest, she immediately put her orthopedic boot back on. Nikita knew she had to take the time to heal, but when she was required to try out to keep her spot on the team, she knew it was time to move on.

“I'm about safety and I felt like it wasn’t safe anymore,” Knight stated. “I need my body for the rest of my life, so I said goodbye to that.”

Practicing Jui-Jitsu filled the void that cheerleading left behind, but only for a short time. Being choked out was not what Nikita aspired for. Though she enjoyed contending on the mat she was not a fan of being strangled. Nikita knew that she loved competing and physical activity, so she was determined to find her path.

Scrolling through Instagram one day led her to a posting of the WWE. Following the wrestling news sparked an interest in her and she started watching more of it on television. Wrestling encompassed everything Nikita loved. It contained the hard work that gymnastics had, the performance side that she experienced in competitive cheerleading, and the fighting aspect that Jui-Jitsu offered.

“I like single-person sports because I can control my pacing. I went to my dad and I asked him how could I get into pro wrestling,” Knight commented. “He looked at me like I was crazy, I told him that wrestling was what I needed to be doing.”

As soon as Nikita turned 17, she was able to start training. Learning the multi-facets of the profession began for her at the Stronghold Wrestling Academy in Lamont Furnace, Pa. From the beginning, Nikita felt right at home because of Brandon’s emphasis on safety.

Focusing on acting and character development is important to Nikita. Due to her background, in gymnastics and cheerleading, performing flips is just something she is accustomed to. Being partial to the Lucha Libre style of wrestling is something the Spartan Warrior has always gravitated to.

Wrestlers like the Undertaker and Randy Savage have always been entertaining for Nikita to watch, but that has changed. Rey Mysterio, Rey Fenix, and Pentagon Jr. are now her favorites. It has a lot to do with the similarities to her very first sport.

Being signed to a major wrestling company such as AEW or the WWE is a goal for Nikita. However, at 18 years old, she is in no hurry to rush the process. Nikita is comfortable with the advice and guidance that she is getting from Brandon, and knows that she has been properly instructed to execute moves in the ring the right way.

“I’ve heard stories that people have gone out to hurt each other. Their careers were cut short and they didn’t need to be,” Knight exclaimed! “I think wrestlers need to know that we do things a certain way so we keep our opponents safe as well. I want to do this as long as I can and I don’t want to end up in a wheelchair.”

Within the past decade, professional wrestling has seen an insurgence of women athletes. These ladies are not eye candy, they are legit fighters and in some cases are just as tough as the men who compete. Today, it is not uncommon to see intergender matches and to watch men and women square off to fight each other. Unlike most sports, wrestling has evened the playing field. It looks as if the women of today’s wrestling are finally receiving the respect that they deserve.

Currently, wrestling for women is a far cry from what it was just 25 years ago. Then the lady wrestlers were referred to as divas and they were flaunted as sex objects as opposed to being taken seriously as legitimate prizefighters.

Now, all women wrestling promotions such as Shimmer, Shine, WOW, and Mission Pro have forged their way into popularity with the wrestling fans. This fact is not just because the companies bring an obvious uniqueness, but because they present talented competitors that know how to wrestle. No matter what their gender is!

Wrestling is attracting women from all walks of life, and with all kinds of backgrounds. It is hard to keep track of all the ladies who want to take part in the action. However, when fans least expect it, someone else hits the scene who ends up leaving a lasting impression. In this particular case, it is Miss Reality, Madie Wrenkowski from Dallas, Texas.

At first glance, this young lady is stunning as she enters the venue floor in one of her many stylish outfits. The most popular of Madie’s attire is her gear that is made out of the Houndstooth material pattern. This particular design pays ohmage to Kylie Jenner because of the choice of print. It is also inspired by Florence Griffith Joyner (Flo-Jo), who was a record-setting track star because of the asymmetrical pant leg.

Madie’s brother comes up with ideas and designs for her in-ring apparel, and it is her mother who does the sewing and who turns the idea into an elegant garment. The wrestling gear fits Madie’s personality and at the same time sets her apart from everyone else.

“I didn’t want to look like I was playing wrestler and I didn’t want to look as if I was wearing a costume,” Madie Wrenkowski declared. “A lot of the girls today, have the bedazzles everywhere. After the match, the mat becomes a graveyard for all the sparkles that were once on their gear. I didn’t want that. I want my gear to be unique.”

Mission Pro Wrestling is what Madie calls her home promotion. The diversity there is incredible. The women come from different backgrounds and have their styles. Whether it be AEW or Mission pro, it's nice to have the experience, to work with so many different people. But, do not let this lady Texan fool you with her pretty smile and her keen eye for fashion, Madie Wrenkowski can kick your ass! Not only is she tough, but she also has a mouth on her. So, do not be surprised if she tells you off right before she beats you up!

“Miss Reality is who I am in a sense. I have always said what I have wanted to say and I have always dealt with the consequences later,” Wrenkowski said. “If I feel a certain way, I’m going to let you know about it. Even if I get my ass kicked.”

Growing in North Texas, Madie always watched wrestling on television. Eventually, she went to college in San Marcos to study Wildlife Biology. Jokingly Madie teased her mother that she was going to drop out of school to become a wrestler. Of course, her mother insisted she get her degree before doing anything like that.

Finally, that day came when Madie walked the stage and received her diploma. Before long, she found a job in her field which would have taken her to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Unfortunately, just two weeks before Madie was to go to the island for employment, a volcano erupted. That natural disaster instantly changed the course of Madie's life.

“I took that as a sign of fate,” Wrenkowski explained. “After that, the rest was history.”

Fortunately, because pro wrestling is quite prominent in Texas, Madie hoped to stay in her home state. Attending a wrestling fantasy camp in Houston put on by Booker T was her next step. However, due to the “Space City’s” enormous size, the young lady did not adjust well.

Knowing that she wanted to continue with her dream of wrestling, Madie talked to someone who she was introduced to at the school in Houston. Gino Medina, one of Booker’s wrestlers and trainers suggested that she look into the Hybrid School of Wrestling located in San Antonio which was run by Chris Marvel.

Timing is everything. Shortly after Madie arrived at her new training facility, Thunder Rosa moved to Texas and Chris brought in Jazz and Rodney Mack to help with the training at Hybrid. Having the opportunity to be taught by two women who have carved out their success in wrestling benefitted the young female student greatly.

“To be able to learn from women is very different. There is a difference between the man’s and woman’s perspectives in wrestling. I have been fortunate to have Rosa and Jazz guide me away from the mistakes that they have made,” Wrenkowski stated. “They are both very aggressive and direct about how they do business. I think being able to see that in them has allowed me to be the same way.”

Mission Pro Wrestling was established in 2019. Since then, it has given women a platform to show the world what they are capable of doing inside the ring. The women on the roster have different styles and come from diverse backgrounds.

La Rosa Negra, Holidead, Jasmine Allure, Vert Vixen, Masha Slamovich, and the Renegade twins are just some of the names that fill the card. Some of the ladies at Mission Pro may not be recognizable, however, the impression they leave on the fans is lasting. Do not underestimate the quality of the entertainment that will be seen at a Mission Pro wrestling event. Fans exit the building satisfied with what they experienced and they are left wanting more.

“A lot of the women at Mission Pro bring an inherent brand of aggressiveness to their matches,” Wrenkowski explained. “That aggressiveness compares to what the men bring to their matches.”

The in-ring experience that Madie has gained at Mission Pro has prepared her for the big stage at All Elite Wrestling. The knowledge that Rosa and Jazz have passed onto Madie and the other lady wrestlers have allowed them to adapt to wrestling for television. Miss Reality has become somewhat of a regular on AEW Dark and AEW Dark Elevation. The company’s two shows can be watched on Youtube.

Along with the big stage come some of the more notable names in wrestling. Since its existence, AEW has acquired some of wrestling’s top talent. Wrestlers such as Brian Pillman Jr., Brian Cage, Eddie Kingston, Jerry Lynn, and Dustin Rhodes have invested a bit of their time into Madie’s development. Whether the conversations were about the psychology of wrestling or creating a brand, it all came down to one main fact, it all had to make sense to those who were watching her work.

“I have gotten to pick all of their brains. their minds. The people are so nice there and they have been willing to help me out in any way that they can,” Wrenkowski recalled. “Dustin Rhodes put on a training session and I was critiqued by him. To be able to see how he sees professional wrestling is priceless information.”

Wrestling may appear to be a sport that takes place on a mat inside of a ring. However, it is much more to it than that. It is a small startup business for those who take part in it. Physical attributes are an important trait needed, but communication and marketing skills, along with the ability to stand out and get noticed are also important.

Madie is determined and dedicated to becoming a successful professional wrestler. Though she did not set out on this path at first, she is definitely on it now. Her mentors, Jazz, and Thunder Rosa might have paved the way for her and all the other current-day lady wrestlers, but it is now up to Madie and her peers to move forward.

“Just because we are women, we don’t have to be like the WWE divas when all that started,” Wrenkowski commented. “I feel that Jazz was one of the women who was a big proponent in the women's revolution of professional wrestling.”

In a day when the average professional wrestler is 170 pounds, it is nice to know that there are still guys like Bill Collier in the business. The man is known as “Big Time,” stands six feet and four inches, and weighs 250 pounds. After 14 years in the business, the Johnstown, Pennsylvania native is still going strong.

2021 has been very rewarding for the 40-year-old. Bill has had a handful of opportunities to wrestle for AEW. AEW started putting on matches in January of 2019 and since then they have been surprising fans with exciting in-ring action. Not only have several veteran wrestlers come to work for the Florida-based wrestling organization, but it has attracted a lot of new talent as well.

The company streams two shows that are on YouTube Monday and Tuesday evenings. AEW Dark and AEW Dark Elevation air matches of the promotion’s superstars taking on the highly talented competitors from the independent circuit.

When Bill wrestled for AEW in March, he had a six-man tag match against the Dark Order and two singles matches. The single matches that he had were against two of the organization's top-tier talent, Adam Page and Jon Moxley.

“A friend of mine who has a contract with AEW said if I was looking for some extra work, to email this address,” Bill Collier recalled. “I sent an email and I received a reply that same day. It was literally that fast.”

Bill went to Florida the following week and stayed with the company for three days during their television tapings. The roster is full of highly recognizable faces of today’s leading superstars. Due to Bill’s time in the business, there were several people that he knew from crossing paths with throughout his years of wrestling.

“The locker room is laid back and everybody shares the same goal in putting on the best show possible. I found everyone to be cordial and helpful.” Collier explained. “Cody Rhodes was approachable and he had some positive feedback for me after my matches.”

Some may say that Bill got a late start in the game at the age of 25. Bill had his first child at 18 years old and worked diligently to provide a secure life for his family. When he felt the time was right, he pursued wrestling.

Wanting to train in Altoona with trainer Ken Downs was Bill’s first choice. Ken worked under the wrestling name of Kato. At that time, he was in between moves and didn’t have his new facility ready. In the meantime, Bill went to Indiana, Pennsylvania to train with APWF. It was there where Bill got a feel for the ring and gained a good understanding of the fundamentals of the business.

After more than six months of training in Indiana, Bill got a call from Ken in Altoona. Ken’s gym was ready. The trainer in Western Pennsylvania had a track record for training bigger wrestlers and for Bill that was just what he needed. When the two men teamed up, they started from scratch.

“Ken felt like we needed to break everything down that I had learned. He showed me how to wrestle like a big guy so the audience could understand what they were getting,” Collier said. “Kato is a phenomenal trainer and he is responsible for the performer I am today. Deciding to train in Altoona with Ken is one of the best decisions I have ever made.”

Being from Pennsylvania Bill has wrestled in several of the promotions in that state. Some of these are PWX, International Wrestling Cartel, Keystone Championship Wrestling, and Imagine Wrestling, just to name a few. Bill has also wrestled for Maryland Championship Wrestling and Empire State Wrestling in New York. He has also traveled often to compete for Greektown Pro Wrestling in Ontario, Canada.

Over the years Bill has stepped into the ring with a long list of notable names. Sharing the ring with such talents as Chris Hero, Cody Deaner, Stevie Richards, Brian Pillman Jr., and Jack Swagger has proven Bill’s toughness and ability to adapt to different wrestling styles.

Going back through the years of all the matches Bill has had, he easily picked a few names of guys he felt he had memorable encounters with. That list includes Shane Taylor, John McChesney, and John Alexander.

“I think all those men are phenomenal,” Collier responded. “I think John Alexander is almost not human. Once our match started, he kept going and never stopped. He helped push me through that contest.”

Nagging pain slowed “Big Time” down in 2017. The discomfort he felt in his left hip and knee and right elbow was enough for him to question his passion for the sport. The movement that he once had inside the ring was not the same and he thought his body was breaking down.

Wrestling on a show in Canada turned out to be the turning point for Bill. At that event, he was paired with a wrestler who normally worked in tag team action. His opponent leaned on Bill to structure the match and to call it. It was then that Bill realized his passion for wrestling was just as strong as ever.

“The next day I researched on how to train differently and how to work around my injuries,” Collier expressed. “It took me a few months to achieve my goal, but at the age of 40 I feel like I’m in the best condition I can be in since I have been doing this.”

Bill has come a long way since his early days with Ken in Altoona, but the two have maintained their friendship and they continue to see each other frequently.

Challenging Bill to push himself and to grow as a performer is Ken’s main directive, however, the love Bill has for professional wrestling comes from within.

“I don’t know why I like it so much. I just know that when I am doing it everything else feels right,” Collier announced. “At this rate, I truly believe I can do this for another five years.”

Very few people start wrestling and get to where they want to be in the sport right away. Some never get there at all. For professional wrestler Jeremiah Plunkett, it has taken him more than 16 years. The 34-year-old wrestler from central Tennessee has been wrestling for the National Wrestling Alliance since March of this year and he is enjoying every minute of it.

It has been a long road for the journeyman whose career was slowed by a neck injury in 2019 and by the Covid pandemic in 2020. Jeremiah found himself so discouraged to the point that he bought what was going to be his last pair of wrestling tights and boots.

“In December of 2019, I helped the NWA backstage for a pay-per-view taping. Several months later I received a phone call from a New Jersey area code and I didn’t answer it,” Jeremiah Plunkett said. “I listened to the message and then I got a text and I found out who it was. The text said they wanted to talk to me about the NWA. I called back immediately.”

Being the oldest wrestling promotion in operation, the NWA has always been a place where Jeremiah saw himself wrestling. After he made his professional debut in 2005 that was always the goal. He has always been a fan of the NWA and he loves the nostalgia attached to it. Throughout its history, the company has experienced different degrees of success and notoriety. Of course, many fans will remember some of the greats who wore the company’s belt. Many of them are wrestling legends and will never be forgotten. Men like Lou Thesz, Buddy Rogers, Harley Race, Dusty Rhodes, and Ric Flair are recognizable names who held the precious 10 pounds of gold.

Then there were times when people were not aware that the NWA was still in existence. Starting in July of 1993 and for more than a year, the iconic leather strap was the center of controversy and drama. World Championship Wrestling withdrew from the NWA while Ric Flair was the champion. With both companies unable to come to suitable terms, the NWA Title was vacated and Ric Flair was no longer their champion. The stability for the once strong wrestling organization started to falter and left many fans disheartened.

In August of 1994, Shane Douglas, the Eastern Championship Wrestling’s Champion won the NWA Title in a tournament. Dropping the belt in the middle of the ring, he denounced his reign and desire to be the titleholder. From there, Eastern Championship Wrestling withdrew their association with the NWA and renamed themselves Extreme Championship Wrestling. From that moment on, to the wrestling world, the promotion became known as ECW. ECW quickly gained a reputation for having violent and dangerous matches which became known as hardcore wrestling.

Over the next two decades, the belt changed hands over three dozen times. Going through the collection of names is enlightening. Appearing on the list are such wrestlers as Dan Severn, Christian Cage, Jeff Jarrett, AJ Styles, Adam Pearce, and Ron Killings (R Truth). The belt that at one time traveled the globe frequently only went to Japan and Australia a handful of times in those 20 years.

Winning the coveted NWA Title is a dream of almost every wrestler, however many are willing to settle for just stepping in the ring with the Champion. On May 30, 2014, Jeremiah had his chance in Millersville, Tennessee when he faced Satoshi Kojima with the NWA SAW Wrestling promotion. Kojima is a highly decorated wrestler who has won a multitude of championships. His wrestling career started 30 years ago and he is still currently wrestling for New Japan Pro Wrestling.

Like in most organizations pro wrestling has its share of politics. Unfortunately, Jeremiah experienced it firsthand. At the time, the NWA management was not happy with SAW’s decision to pit Jeremiah in a match with Kojima for the World Title. Despite the disagreement between both parties, the match took place. Jeremiah got his shot at the Champion’s belt.

“It was a bit nerve-racking. I saw the email so I know there was controversy about me being in that match,” Plunkett clarified. “I wanted to go out and have a good match for the people who fought for me. I didn’t want them to think they went out and fought for nothing.”

The venue was packed and the SAW promotion experienced record attendance. Tickets were sold to the overwhelming number of spectators who were willing to watch the event through an opened garage door from the parking lot. Cheering fans made their allegiance known to Jeremiah who was humbled by their support. The match lasted nearly 15 minutes and Kojima retained the belt. However, through the conflict overshadowing the match, and the stress Jeremiah endured due to it, he still was a part of wrestling history.

“After the contest, Kojima congratulated me on how good it was and he wished it could have gone longer,” Plunkett mentioned. “It was amazing because everyone in the building was behind me.”

Everyone including Tracy Smothers, “The Wild-Eyed Southern Boy.” There are a lot of wrestlers who have intentions of leaving wrestling better than what they found it, Tracy made sure he did. Countless stories have been shared about how Tracy influenced other wrestlers or went out of his way to help them.

Tracy called promoters to convince them to book younger wrestlers who he thought needed a break. He watched their progress and critiqued them on it. Some stories might not have been even told yet. Jeremiah is one of those wrestlers. Leading up to his match with Kojima, Tracy traveled to Tennessee on a regular basis to hype up the event.

“Tracy knew how important that match was to me so he came to do vignettes and promos to give me a credibility rub,” Plunkett affirmed. “He did it for a little bit of gas money when he could have wrestled in a match and made a better payout.”

The wrestling community lost Tracy on October 28th, 2020, and his death affected many throughout the industry. However, the memories he left behind bring smiles to the faces of those who knew and loved him. There is no doubt that Tracy would be proud of where Jeremiah is today. Since the Spring of this year, Jeremiah has been wrestling with the NWA. He is not currently under a contract, but the matches have been consistent.

It might be a while before Jeremiah steps in the ring with the current NWA Heavyweight Champion, Trevor Murdoch. However, he is getting television time and going up against the likes of Nick Aldis, The Pope, Jordan Clearwater, Luck Hawx, and many other top-notch wrestlers.

“Tracy pounded into my head to be ready to do anything anywhere. Sometimes you may be in the first match or you have to go out and make somebody look good,” Plunkett replied. “Being a utility player or a journeyman may not always be great for your career, but it may always keep you employed.”

Driving an hour north of Houston, Texas, will take you to a city called Montgomery. It is credited for being one of the oldest towns in the state and the birthplace of the Texas Lone Star Flag, and it is also the home of professional wrestler Jay Davis. To wrestling fans, he is known as the Rottweiler.

As of late, the independent wrestling scene has surged in Houston and the surrounding areas of East Texas. But the entertainment does not stop there. It stretches to Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and beyond. A lot of that has to do with the rising number of young athletes wanting to pursue the in-ring sport. The excitement that is sweeping through the Gulf Coast region is expected to forge on as fans continue to embrace the up-and-coming wrestling talent.

For the past two years, the 21-year-old grappler has been entertaining crowds who come out and watch shows for promotions like Loko Wrestling, Texas All-Star, Undisputed, and Live Action Wrestling. Davis has a signature look. Due to his stocky build and the singlet he wears, it compliments his body type perfectly. Fitting with the throwback look of his ring attire is his admiration for old-school wrestling.

Wearing a black-colored do-rag on his head along with a tow chain in hand, his walk to the ring is heavy with antagonistic vibes. Often, fans in attendance dare to challenge Jay, and because of his defiant attitude, it will not let him back down. The taunting and jeers do not seem to bother the wrestler, they only fuel his tenacity for the fight ahead. Trying to figure out if the young man is a good guy or a bad guy is hard to tell.

“I don’t classify myself as a heel or babyface. I’m just a Rottweiler. If you treat them right, they will love you forever, if you don’t things can turn sour quick,” Jay Davis explained. “I’m going to treat you well if you treat me well. As soon as you raise your hand to me, it’s over.”

Being athletic has always come naturally for Jay. While growing up he loved staying active and participating in anything competitive. Strength and agility are words that well describe the young Texan. Competing in amateur wrestling in his high school days is apparent while watching him in action. His in-ring style screams technical wrestling.

Davis may only stand five feet - eight inches, however, he weighs 225 pounds and his mass is intimidating. In the gym, his weightlifting routine is quite impressive. For some, working out with weights may be a chore, but for Jay, it is a healthy outlet that helps him deal with the stresses of life. The Rottweiler can bench 400, squat 610, and deadlift 585 pounds. His opponents on the independent wrestling scene can feel his strength and power.

Jay is interested in making his own path in the sport. However, when you hear the canine breed nickname and see the metal chain that he carries, it is hard not to think of the legendary wrestler, the Junkyard Dog.

The Junkyard Dog was Sylvester Ritter who made a legion of fans throughout his 20-year career. His personality and charisma made him one of the most popular wrestlers from the 70s through the 90s. His ability to connect with the audience was his magic! Unfortunately, the wrestling world lost its hero when Ritter died in a single-car accident in 1998.

“The Junkyard Dog is one of my favorite wrestlers to watch. I like his aggressiveness and how he played to the crowd,” Davis recalled. “He didn’t play a character. He was the Junkyard Dog. It wasn’t a gimmick to him.”

Following his passion has not always been easy for Jay. In 2018, after graduating high school he was unable to find a wrestling school to train at. Dealing with other misfortunes such as losing his job, Jay became frustrated with his situation. To blow off some steam and to take his mind off of things, he went to the gym to work out.

It was there he made contact with a gentleman who was working out as well. The man caught Jay’s attention because he was wearing a Cody Rhodes t-shirt while lifting weights. To Jay’s surprise, the man was Vinnie Zukko. As an independent wrestler, Vinnie had an on-again-off-again career with the sport in Texas.

The two men struck up a conversation and found out that they both had a lot in common. Within a few days of meeting each other, Jay was with Vinnie training in a wrestling ring. Since then, Vinnie has been something like a father figure to Jay and someone he can get guidance from. Offering advice about wrestling to the Rottweiler has been beneficial. Vinnie has become such an important person in his life that Jay lovingly refers to him as “Pops.”

“He has taught me a lot of things that I would have never picked up on my own,” Jay stated. “He has impressed upon me how I should carry myself in this business, in the locker room, and to respect the men and women who have come before me.”

Meeting Vinnie has been a blessing for Jay. For Vinnie, it has motivated him to rededicate himself to wrestling which has helped him rekindle his passion for the in-ring activity. The two men do not only push each other to be at their best, they help keep each other accountable.

However, wrestling has a much deeper meaning to Jay than just participating in a sport. Wrestling is a big part of the relational bond he has with his grandfather. In a way, you could say that his grandfather is living vicariously through Jay. He had always wanted to be a wrestler as well. Life’s responsibilities did not allow a wrestling career for Jay’s Grandfather, but there is no doubt that he is Rottweiler’s number one fan and supporter.

Jay’s family constantly shares stories of when he was a small baby. At any time when Jay was crying or upset, his grandfather placed him on his lap and they watched wrestling together. Within minutes, Jay was calm. Due to his grandfather's age and the concern of the pandemic, he only watches his grandson through the internet.

“He’s pretty proud of me. I have a nice picture of him holding one of my championship belts,” Davis smiled. “Sometimes it brings a tear to my eye when I see him watch me wrestle.”

If I were to describe the character and behavior of professional wrestler Mac Daddy Duds, you would have to believe me. No one can make stories like this up. The antagonist in the independent scene goes out of his way to infuriate the Gulf Coast wrestling fans, but they cannot help to also laugh with him because he is so obnoxious.

Behind the character is Matthew Dudley. Currently, you can find the six-foot two-inch, 230-pound wrestlers actively wrestling for Diamond Championship, Southern Championship, and Alabama Wrestling Alliance. Due to Dud’s location, he is centrally located in such a way that has allowed him to create a reputation in sport by wrestling for several promotions in the southeastern region of the country.

Drawing emotions from the audiences in Alabama, Florida, and Alabama; is exactly what the man from Dauphin Island, Alabama wants to do. Duds does not only do it by how he acts, but also by what he wears. Sunglasses usually cover his eyes and his unkempt beard is one of the things he is known for. His colorful printed tracksuits and numerous gold chains hanging down to his chest are attention getters.

Watching music videos is one of Mac Daddy Duds' favorite things to do. It is the Hip Hop music videos where he tends to get most of his ideas from. Clothing that is outrageous, colorful, and that is eye-catching is what Duds likes. The audience is not only mesmerized by his apparel, but it is also by what he says that is unforgettable. Duds often grab the microphone and say just about whatever he pleases. Do not be surprised when he reminds you several times in one evening that, “there is no slackin in his mackin.” The catchphrase is humorous and almost always puts a smile on the faces who are listening.

“I’m going to leave an impression on the spectators. Win or lose, they are going to remember something about me,” Matthew Dudley declared. “I like when people have an opinion about me. I love getting a response from the people. I can make them laugh or yell at me.”

To say that he flaunts the status of his wealth is an understatement. Walking through the curtain with a money boa around his neck should explain it all. He has been known to throw money into the crowd. Mac Daddy Duds is arrogant and is known to be as mean as a snake. He is the heel wrestler the sport of professional wrestling has been yearning for.

“I have been a fan of the heel character ever since I was a kid. Those were the guys I looked up to,” Dudley said. “A lot of the kids I grew up with looked up to Hulk Hogan, but I looked up to Roddy Piper. I liked the fact that the bad guys got away with just about anything with the referee standing right there.”

In 2001, Duds went to an independent wrestling show and when it was over, he was so amazed he did not want to leave. Staying in the building as the crew was cleaning, the promoter noticed the teenager. Since the business was highly protected back then, Duds was asked to leave, but instead, he struck up a conversation with the man in charge.

Within minutes of chatting with each other, Duds found out that there was a wrestling school 45 minutes from his home in Paducah, Kentucky. His father was more on board with his desire to train than his mother was. However, from that point on they both took turns making the trip several times each weekend for his weekly lessons.

On Friday the trainees set up the ring and were taught how to run the ropes and basics moves and holds at first. The next day, the coaches taught and trained from the morning to the afternoon. The students in the class then set out the chairs and prepared for the evening event. During the shows, those being taught worked as the security team. The following day, the trainees returned to the facility in Harlen once more for lessons until it was time to take the wrestling ring down and put it away.

“We did that every week,” Duds recalled. “It was good for us because we got three days in a row of consistent training. It was great and I learned a lot faster that way.”

Before long it was time for the teenager’s first match. He called himself Matt Winters and he took the role of the babyface. In those days, to wrestle in Kentucky, a license was required. Being only 14 years old, the state was not going to allow him to participate professionally. So, Duds traveled with his fellow wrestlers to places like Tennessee, Indiana, and Illinois where promotions there gave him opportunities.

Wrestling became his main focus and there were times when he was wrestling as many as four and five matches a week. Duds were happy to be doing what he loved, but wrestling for him then was difficult. Being a kid and out-weighed by most of his competitors made the sport quite challenging.

“When I started the veteran wrestlers liked working the younger guys because they could beat us up and get away with it. The business was different back then,” Dudley recalled. “The training was rough and you had to earn respect before you got anywhere in the business.”

When Duds started in his wrestling training, there was a total of 10 students who were being taught. Of those 10 pupils, along with Duds two others are still wrestling up to this day. One of those men is Chuck Taylor who was recently signed with AEW.

Unlike Chuck who stayed as close as he could to the sport and consistently wrestled for the past 18 years, Duds took another path. Serving in the United States Army became his new occupation in 2006. Traveling and being away from the promotions that booked him, he began wrestling less and less.

He still wrestled, but instead of wrestling two or three times in one weekend, he remembers times when he only wrestled that many times in one year. Duds’ in-ring activity slowed down immensely.

“I wasn’t doing it like I was because of my relationships and the things that were going on in my life at that time,” Dudley explained. Wrestling for me went to the back burner.”

In 2017, and now out of the military and living back in Kentucky. Duds had pretty much removed himself out of the wrestling spotlight. Out of the blue one day, the phone rang. On the other end was a wrestling friend who wanted to see if Duds was interested in participating in an event called “Wrestle For A Cure.”

Duds agreed to go, but he didn’t have too high of an expectation for his adventure. Duds wrestled and to his surprise, he fell back in love with the game. From that moment on Duds had a new passion for wrestling and he pursued it with everything that he had.

“As soon as I got out of the ring I started getting in contact with promoters in Kentucky,” Dudley answered. “In a few weeks not was I meeting with promoters in my state, but in Florida, Mississippi, and Alabama too.”

One could say that the phone call from his wrestling buddy was the turning point in his life professionally. Duds quickly started thinking of ways that he could market himself. He tried several different ideas. Some of them stuck and some of them did not. It was then when he grew out his beard and came up with the name Mac Daddy Duds. He intended to create a unique character that was simply better than what everyone else was doing.

However, having one booking a weekend ended up in him having a handful of matches just in a few days. Due to his notoriety, he was even wrestled a couple of times in one evening.

“Nothing other than professional wrestling ever allowed me to create a character and my gimmick, and for me to come up with my music and outfits,” Dudley replied. “Every bit of this idea came from my mind. I created the character that I wanted to go out and watch.”

If there ever was a person who was born into wrestling royalty, it is Kerry Morton. Wrestling fans will not have to think for too long to figure out that Kerry is the son of Ricky Morton. Ricky and Robert Gibson are one of the most decorated tag teams of all time, the Rock N’ Roll Express.

Due to his father’s involvement in the sport, wrestling has always been a part of Kerry’s life. Even with having a state championship in amateur wrestling to his credit, the in-ring activity was not something he had a desire to pursue. Well, not exactly. Kerry wanted to work in professional wrestling, but not as a wrestler.

“I told my dad that I wanted to be a writer for wrestling behind the scenes on the production crew,” Kerry Morton said. “He told me I needed to wrestle first. To be a successful writer, I would have to put myself in the shoes of the wrestler.”

While growing up when Kerry was not traveling with his father to different wrestling shows, he took advantage of studying the Arts. Participating in dance, acting, writing, and vocal lessons allowed him to become comfortable when performing in front of a crowd.

Ricky will never tell his son that he cannot wrestle, but he wants Kerry to finish his college education. The 20-year-old is currently in his second year at King University in Bristol, Tennessee, where he studies Marketing. The classes and activities Kerry has chosen are preparing him potentially for a successful wrestling career. How can he not be a successful wrestler? His Dad is Ricky Morton!

“I can’t change the fact that he is my father, but I have to work hard, if not harder because I am in that spotlight,” Morton explained. “I have so many eyes on me. When I make a mistake, people are going to see it.”

There may be some pressure that comes with bearing the Morton name, but the responsibility also has its benefits. A lot of Ricky’s friends are in the wrestling business, people such as Magnum T.A., Teddy Long, Ron Simmons, and Ric Flair.

So, the support system that Kerry has is strong. This list of men, plus many others text him regularly with advice and encouragement. They hold him accountable because they want to see him have the same shot at the success his father has had.

“I’m in my father’s shadows right now,” Morton admitted. “At some point, I want to wrestle for a major company and win a championship and make my legacy.”

Being in the shadows of his father also means Kerry is also receiving direction from many of the legends who have made the sport what it is today. Knowing famous wrestlers may not open every door that appears to be locked for the young grappler, but it can speed up the learning process.

But it is not just wrestlers from his father’s era that are reaching out to him with guidance. Wrestlers from the modern generation have also taken the time to mentor Kerry. Enzo Amore is one of the names that message Kerry weekly to make sure he is staying on top of his game.

“In this business, you see different styles of wrestling. Enzo has made a lot of money in this sport,” Morton stated. “I stay open-minded and I’m trying to learn from everyone I can. Most of the people I know have worked in big companies and their input will get me ready for a big tryout.”

Though the in-ring sport has changed a lot over the past couple of decades, the marquee outside still advertises wrestling. Kerry's amateur training helps him with that, but Ricky has instilled traditional principles about the business into his son.

Inside the ring, you will see Kerry use a lot of technical moves and transitions to secure the upper hand over his opponent. And just because old-school wrestling is in his blood, don’t be surprised if you see him fly off the ropes. However, there is an ingredient in Kerry’s wrestling that you will also find in Ricky’s style.

“I'm a storytelling wrestler. I don’t think storytelling is dead in professional wrestling. It just isn't done right all the time,” Morton explained. “I am working toward bringing back good Southern professional wrestling.”

Kerry started his pro career at the beginning of 2020 before the Covid pandemic slowed and shut down businesses across the United States. Now that wrestling shows are starting back up, he is getting back to wrestling two or three times a week.

At first, Kerry stayed close to home. He worked at events for the School of Morton, KFW, Innovate, and Imperial wrestling promotions. Finding himself more comfortable, Kerry desires to branch out and take bookings for companies like ASW in West Virginia and AML in North Carolina.

It’s allowing me to make new connections, and I get to work with other wrestlers I can learn from,” Morton commented. “I’m also working in front of new audiences. My father has a big following, but a lot of the fans are getting to see ….

Talking about wrestling with PJ Polaco is similar to getting a lesson from a professor about a college course. The information PJ shares are not only interesting but also very knowledgeable. There is no doubt that PJ knows all there is to know about the pro wrestling game. The Connecticut-born wrestler is still actively participating in matches. Maybe not to the degree he did when he started, but no way can he be considered retired.

After dedicating nearly 30 years to the sport he should know a thing or two. One could say he is a master of the trade. PJ can talk about ring psychology, angles, storylines, the evolution of wrestling, and television production.

And who again is PJ Polaco? Well, he’s Justin Credible.

PJ started as a jobber in 1992 in the WWF after training with the famous Hart Family in Calgary Alberta, Canada. Then his wrestling name was PJ Walker and his main role for Vince McMahon was to make the company’s top talent look good. Then, Hulk Hogan and the Ultimate Warrior were fighting for the top spot. Other big names on the roster were men like Randy Savage, Lex Lugar, Yokozuna, and The Undertaker.

The action inside the ring might have been exciting to watch if you were a fan, but what was unfolding behind the scenes was nothing Vince McMahon Jr. could have been thrilled to be dealing with. The wrestling promoter was on trial for supplying illegal anabolic steroids to his wrestlers. On July 23, 1994, a jury found him not guilty. In what looked like a way to keep costs down for the wrestling company, a great deal of its business was kept in the northeastern part of the United States.

“Since I was living in Connecticut, I was getting a lot of work for television tapings. With a lot of the shows being in New York, Maine, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, I could easily drive there,” Polaco said. “Even though I wasn’t on a contract I was on T.V. every week. It got me noticed by the agents, the producers, and Vince McMahon himself.”

A new era started for PJ in 1994 when he wrestled as Aldo Montoya. For the next three years, he had several television appearances and a string of wins over wrestlers such as Kwang, Pierre, Steve Dunn, and the Brooklyn Brawler. However, he never broke out of that mid-card status and his run ended with the company in 1997. From there he left to go to Extreme Championship Wrestling and started working under the name of Justin Credible. This time though, he would turn heel!

Leading ECW at that time was Paul Heyman who had the role of the booker. The magic that was created at the promotion while he was in charge there was near genius. The style of wrestling plus the caliber of talent who worked there made a good combination for the fans to keep watching. Having matches that did not fit the traditional mold for wrestling, the company exhibited contests with tables, ladders, chairs, barbed wire, and just about anything else one could imagine.

Some of the wrestlers that blazed the trail at ECW were Tommy Dreamer, the Sandman, Shane Douglas, Sabu, and the Dudleys, to name a few. It was a wrestling scene that presented an over-the-top product with a following that encouraged every bad decision and violent act the wrestlers came up with.

“Paul said I didn’t have to do that stuff if I didn’t want to. They also needed guys to go out there and have a good match,” Polaco explained. “They wanted a little bit of everything. They wanted the hardcore wrestling, but they also wanted highflying, the luchador, and the technical matches too.”

When you look back at the action that was taking place regularly at the ECW Arena, one could call it intense. Adapting to a scene like that could have its challenges. For Justin however, he chose to take the style he used when wrestling as Aldo and combined it with several old-school moves.

Working for ECW was a smooth transition for Justin when he arrived, due to his prior experience of wrestling on television. The best part about him starting with the WWF is that he gained a great working proficiency for live broadcasting. That knowledge was not only beneficial for him but since he was willing to pass along his knowledge it also helped the younger wrestlers who worked beside him.

“Being live on RAW helped me out greatly. A lot of the guys at ECW at the time were not prepared to work on television,” Polaco stated. “I found out that it helped me when I helped the younger guys who had never been on T.V before on how to do it.”

ECW allowed him to grow into his character and to participate in some unique storylines. Something he never had the opportunity to take part in the three years he worked at the WWF. ECW was a melting pot of talent and it loved to surprise the audience with the unpredictable antics delivered from just about everyone on the roster.

Wrestling for only six months at ECW, PJ found himself working with the likes of Steve Corino, Dusty Rhodes, Terry Funk, Tommy Dreamer, and Sabu. Those wrestlers and several others who work at the company went all out every time they stepped in the ring.

“I was doing some creative work and I was playing with some of the best,” Polcao recalled. “It was an amazing time. A lot of the wrestlers understood if it was done right, ECW was a good fit.”

Paul Heyman had a vision for the ECW brand and the fans were buying it. Yes, there were several talented people at the promotion in its prime. The talent’s strength came out when the stories were told in the ring and outside of it.

Paul had a knack for refining the storyline to fit the individual. That is the main reason why PJ believes ECW was so successful for the time that it was.

Doing a lot of crazy moves is not wrestling to PJ. He is one of those wrestlers who still believe in telling a story in the ring. Some of the high-risk moves that are being done in wrestling today can be exciting to watch, but the fast pace of today’s product makes it hard for the fan to take it all in and follow.

Justin admits that he has been critical of AEW. His major complaint is that many of the wrestlers on the roster there do too much flying and no one is selling the punishment that they are receiving. PJ thinks that the fans will care more for the hero if they could make the audience empathize with them.

“I can watch AEW and say that it is not real wrestling,” Polaco insisted. “But 25 years ago, people were saying the same thing when it came to hardcore wrestling.

Very few wrestling promotions can compare to ECW, if fans followed the promotion for the shock value, it was there. ECW allowed many rising stars to push the limits on creating their characters by allowing the talent to have fun and be themselves.

“It was a great place to work at one point,” Polaco remembers. “It was great creatively and to this day, very few companies are spoken about with such a high regard as ECW.”

It is hard not to hear the passion in every word when Andrew Anderson speaks about pro wrestling. Inside the ring, the blonde-haired wrestler is known as the Reinforcer. The name fits the New Jersey native well due to his six-foot-plus and 300-pound frame.

Let us not forget that he is almost always seen with an intimidating large tow chain, and the intensity of his personality is consistently turned up to a maximum volume. Currently, Andrew’s bullying tactics have become familiar to those who follow SWE Fury, a national promotion based out of Texas.

After parting ways with the veteran of the squared circle, one can’t help to have a stronger appreciation for professional wrestling. The moniker of the Reinforcer goes well beyond his ability to annihilate his opponents while he is competing, it also reflects the respect and integral philosophy that he has for the sport.

“I’ve been in wrestling for 26 years and if a guy has been in the business one day longer than me, I will carry his bags,” Andrew Anderson said. “It is out of respect.”

Professional wrestling has changed a lot since Andrew entered the business in 1991. Everything is different. The wrestlers are different and the wrestling style itself has evolved. Today wrestlers are flying around the ring so fast that the storytelling falls short. And the wrestling psychology, well that’s a lost art too.

The business end of things is also distinctive. Back then the athletic commissions were strict and all the wrestlers had to be licensed. Today, basically anyone who wants to be a wrestler can be one. Andrew tells stories of the way wrestling used to be, and it is easy to classify him as an old-school wrestler. The grappler adopted a cold-war gimmick with the name Siberian Tiger when he worked alongside his tag team partner Nikolai Volkoff. Eventually, a promoter would influence the young man to change his persona.

“In his Italian accent, Mario Savoldi told me that the cold war was dead,” Anderson recalled. “And because he thought I looked like Arn Anderson he suggested I should use my real name so I did.”

To get a full grasp of Andrew Anderson, you have to look at the men who have influenced him over the past two and half decades. A lot of the guys coming into wrestling don’t get the chance to be mentored by one of the greats. Andrew was fortunate enough to be under the learning tree of Jimmy Snuka, Greg Valentine, and Kevin Sullivan.

Andrew considers all three of these men to be his “wrestling dads.” Heartfelt emotion is prominent and genuine when he speaks about each man. His relationships with the three legendary wrestlers go way beyond friendship.

“I love them all. They are my family,” Anderson expressed. “They gave me the rub in the business; you can’t make it in wrestling without a rub.”

For more than four decades, Superfly Jimmy Snuka was a superstar. No matter where he wrestled his presence was made known by his tremendously muscled physique and his ability to fly, dive, or jump off of the ring ropes. One of Snuka’s most memorable moments came during a match in 1983 while wrestling against Don Muraco at Madison Square Garden. The Fiji-born wrestler dove from the top of a 15-foot steel cage to land on his opponent while he lay on the mat in the center of the ring. It is safe to say a pin drop could be heard when Jimmy leaped.

Snuka did not only receive notoriety for his wrestling, but he also made headlines when he became a suspect for the death of his girlfriend Nancy Argentino in 1983. Snuka always maintained his innocence. Due to the deterioration of Snuka’s mental and physical health, charges were dismissed in 2017 because he was deemed not fit to stand trial.

“Jimmy was the man that brought me up into the business and one of the nicest human beings I have ever met,” Anderson attested. “Despite what was said about him on the Dark Side of the Ring, I love him dearly. I miss him every day.”

The second man to mention who has made an impact on Andrew is Greg “The Hammer” Valentine. Valentine started wrestling in 1970 and one might ask if he has officially retired from the business. However, no one will ever question his toughness and ability to finish off his opponent inside the ring. To mention all of Valentine's accomplishments would be difficult because there are so many.

Some fans might remember the storyline in which it was believed that Greg broke the leg of Wahoo McDaniel. Die-hard wrestling fans will recall the days when Valentine teamed with Brutus Beefcake or feuded with Tito Santana. But the dog collar match he had with Roddy Piper at the Starcade event in 1983; will go down as one of the most brutal matches in wrestling history.

A lesson passed down to Andrew from Greg was the ability to make money by understanding his worth and value. Since most wrestlers on the independent circuit are freelancers, they are not signed to guaranteed contracts. They also anticipate making extra money by signing autographs and selling merchandise before and after the matches. Greg believed if a wrestler knew his value, he could make money in the business.

“He is one of my best friends of all time. I don’t see him as much as I used to, but the friendship is always there,” Anderson continued. “Greg comes off a bit grouchy, but I have a lot of pictures of him smiling. We have had a lot of great times and good laughs together.”

The third man in this trio is Kevin Sullivan. Whether you know him as the Great Wizard or the Taskmaster, Sullivan unmistakably has a brilliant mind for professional wrestling. In his career that has already lasted five decades, the 71-year-old has wrestled all over the world and in every gimmick match thinkable. Trying to question who Kevin has wrestled against would be easier if you asked about who he has never stepped into the ring with.

Narrowing down a favorite highlight for Sullivan is not easy considering the number of promotions he has worked for. In the mid to late 70s, he wrestled in World Wide Wrestling Federation, Big Time Wrestling, and Georgia Championship Wrestling. Sullivan may never duplicate the magic he created in Florida during the early 80s when his rivals were Dusty Rhodes and Barry Windham. The feud ran for a couple of years. It gained national attention when it was covered in almost every monthly issue of the hottest wrestling magazines. Sullivan also took over the booking duties at WCW in 1997 where he found himself in a battle for ratings with the WWE in what was called the Monday Night Wars.

“From Kevin, I have learned how to keep myself strong. He is always good about reminding me that I am somebody in this business,” Anderson added. “Kevin taught me wrestling psychology and he taught me how to tell stories and how to come up with great finishes. Kevin is a genius in this business.”

Because professional wrestling is such a physical sport, its athletes have the potential of getting hurt or injured. Unfortunately, some careers have been cut short due to accidents or missteps in the ring. Some wrestlers have the body for the sport and even some amount of potential, but for whatever reason, they do not have “IT.” For Andrew, he has the looks, the gift of gab, and the size and strength. On top of those significant qualities he also had three legendary wrestlers who believed in him and for the man from New Jersey, that has made all the difference.

“I consider myself fortunate when it comes to my three Dads,” Anderson stated. “They took care of me and taught me how to make money in this business. I will never forget what they have done for me.”

Thunder Rosa is a wrestler who gets noticed. She recently earned herself a spot on one of wrestling’s biggest stages, AEW. With her face half-painted with Day of the Dead makeup, Thunder Rosa sets herself apart from the crowd. Her moves of attack are just as flashy as her in-ring attire. Her devilish grin is infectious and at the same time, strangely inviting. From the graveyards of Tijuana, the woman known to her fans as La Mera Mera holds on tightly to her Mexican roots. Thunder Rosa is strong, tough, and she does not back down from a challenge. Her fortitude has been proven time and time again, but most significantly at AEW in a string of matches against Dr. Britt Baker.

The ongoing feud with Dr. Britt has been heated. Tension and disdain fill the air as the two women engage in battles fueled by hate. The intense discord covers any scene when they are together as a blanket. The time to turn back has passed, these lady warriors crossed the point of no return and the only direction for them to take is forward. Their conflict has reached its breaking point.

Ladders, tables, chairs, and thumbtacks have lost all original meaning as they became weapons to maim and destroy. Watching in disbelief the crowd had Images of shock and horror on their faces. As her unsanctioned match with Britt came to an end, a victorious yet exhausted Thunder Rosa became overwhelmed with mixed emotions. Attempting to lift their broken bodies from the remains of the war they left behind, a consequential suspicion loomed over both competitors. The look of anguish was worn by each combatant in such a way that the obvious winner was not easy to recognize. A steady rhythm of applause could be heard inside of Daily’s Plaza – Rosa’s thoughts raced through her mind just as fast as the adrenaline in her body did. It was evident at that moment she was now a part of wrestling history.

“I knew that match was going to be very important for my career. We needed to tell a good story, and we needed to make a statement,” Thunder Rosa said. “We were in the main event, and that was the first time for women in AEW, especially in a match like that. I am proud of what I accomplished with the now AEW champion, Dr. Britt Baker.”

It has been seven years since Thunder Rosa has made her pro wrestling debut. During that time in the business, she has achieved many outstanding accomplishments. Occurring on January 24, 2020, she won the National Wrestling Alliance Championship belt from Allyson Kaye in Atlanta, Georgia.

The prestige that the NWA title carries is one of pro wrestling royalty. Mildred Burke, Moolah, Debbie Combs, Tasha Simone, and Jazz are a handful of ladies who share the same history. Thunder Rosa has etched her name in the record books with some of the greatest women of the mat.

Despite dealing with the unpredictable terms of a deadly pandemic, Rosa stayed active as champion. Defending her belt to the likes of Melina, Lindsey Snow, Ivelisse, and Priscilla Kelly she was successful. After being champion for 274 days, Rosa lost her title to Serena Deebs, and her reign as champion was over.

“I was not expecting that title run either,” Thunder Rosa continued. “I am thankful for the person who saw something that nobody else saw and for believing in the trajectory my career would go after becoming champion.”

Thunder Rosa’s work inside the ring is undeniable. However, the contribution that she is making toward the wrestling business as a whole could be groundbreaking. In June of 2020, accusations of sexual abuse throughout the wrestling world were made public. The outcry became known by the media as the "speak out movement".

In the middle of the chaos, positive thoughts of safety, unity, and empowerment were developed. Rosa had an idea for a woman wrestling promotion. In the past, promoters had put on all-women wrestling shows, but nothing quite like what Thunder Rosa and the ladies are doing at Mission Pro Wrestling.

“I wanted to foster something different and have a company that is solely made of women,” Thunder Rosa explained. “Other people have done all-women shows and ultimately the decisions are made by men. At Mission Pro the wrestlers are women. The referees are women. The photographers are women and the decisions are made by women. It is an all-woman show.”

Women's wrestling is evolving. If you go back to the days of the Fabulous Moolah, Mae Young, Ann Casey, and Joyce Grable there is no comparison of the sport for the women today. Decades ago, it seemed as if there were just a small percentage of women active in professional wrestling.

It appeared that a handful of selected women traveled around the country to bring their style of wrestling to the different territories. Today it is more common to see at least one female match on each card. The landscape for women’s wrestling is changing. Slowly but surely, the doors of opportunity have opened up for the ladies in the sport.

“It is changing because we are asking for more opportunities and for more places to work,” Thunder Rosa commented. “Once someone starts a trend and other people see it is working, everyone wants to start doing it.”

The one thing noticeable at a Mission Pro event is the diversity among the roster. There are women of different ages, different body shapes, and women from different ethnic backgrounds.

Working with Thunder Rosa are new talents to the sport while others have been wresting for several years. The women come from different parts of the United States, and they all bring their unique personalities and wrestling styles with them.

Fans that have come out to watch the women at Mission Pro have seen such talent as Holidead, Jennacide, Marti Belle, La Rosa Negra, Masha Slamovich, the Renegades Twins, and many others.

“We correct each other. Especially when we see someone not acting very well in the locker room,” Thunder Rosa added. “No one is afraid to speak up if someone is misbehaving. We grow as talent and as women when we hold each other accountable like sisters.”

Iron sharpens iron and the bar for excellence is set high by Thunder Rosa and her team. Do not let the phrase all women fool you. Performing on a Mission Pro Wrestling event; the women are just as talented and entertaining as the male wrestlers are in the business today. As the promotion continues to grow, Thunder Rosa knows that what she and everyone else are doing at Mission Pro Wrestling is going to be huge.

“We don’t have to bring in big names. We have to invest in the girls who are new and have talent,” Thunder Rosa stated. “If we give these girls a platform, they will become big names in professional wrestling. That all will happen if we train them right, treat them right, and if they feel respected and supported.”