RINGSPORT ISSUE 7 | October 2024

The Official Journal of the good sport in support of the Admiral-Lord Mountevans Wrestling Committee.

October 2024
Issue 7

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In this issue:

Editor's Note
Around The Halls
Roll Call of Champions
News Round-Up
Action Set For Sunshine Slammin’ Event In West Indies
A Look at Famous Irish Boxers Turned Professional Wrestlers
Taylor Connors Shatters Expectations
Yesterday’s Men: Ali Tabriz
Wrestling Wonders: Japanese Grappling Hits New Heights!
Letters
Classifieds

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Editor’s Note

My father ever praised by the supreme skill of Harry Noon and many older fans will have enjoyed watching his match on last week’s fantastic episode of The Compendium when he faced off against Iran’s Ali Tabriz. In these pages you will learn more about Tabriz and is reputation for one of the roughest wrestlers in our rings - a far cry from my dear father’s favourite Mr. Noon.

Watching these episodes of The Compendium on The Super Channel have given me a huge admiration for the trials and tribulations of wrestlers from previous generations. As I watch our current day athletes such as Johnny Frenso and George Thompson battle in the ring, I wonder what our sport would be like if it was not for the great Harry Noon’s or Giant Nevis’.

I have recently secured flights to the West Indies and will be watching the wrestling there on 19 October. I enjoyed Fresno and Sherry wrestling each other previously and I am looking forward to watching them again, battle in the squared circle. We have secured exclusively the lineup for that show from KING GEORGE VI WRESTLING CLUB’s matchmaker Edwin Luntly and it looks like a most fantastic event on paper.

Once again, thank you for enjoying your wrestling and taking in this magazine, our subscribers, who now come from all over the world are growing by the week.

Yours in sport,
Elliot Wanderinghands


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Around The Halls

28/9 (The Corn Exchange Mullingar, County Westmeath, Ireland): Bulldog Spirit beat Jack O’Grady, Penelope Kaplan and Taylor Connors advanced to the final of the Ladies Wrestling Championship of the World Match, George Thompson beat Terry Grudge, The Black Country Boys beat The Tongan Warriors, Bert Eagle & Johnny Fresno, Kenji "The Dragon" Nakamura & Hiroshi "The Titan" Suzuki to win the International Mannschaftskampf Championships

29/9 (The Corn Exchange Mullingar, County Westmeath, Ireland): Metallica Panther II beat Quick Kick Nakano, Taylor Connors beat Penelope Kaplan to win the Ladies Wrestling Championship of the World, Tiger Kid beat William Miller Harris, Arthur T. Title beat Baloo, Eamon Keane beat Barry Moran and Gavin Owens & Barry Bridges beat Half-Nelson McGrath and Geoff Hammill.

4/10 (Canolfan Mileniwm Cymru, Cardiff, Wales): Penelope Kaplan beat Mitzi Bopp, The Black Country Boys beat Geo "Gun Slinger" Irslinger & George Grouse after the Black Country Crush in a Non-Title Match, Bulldog Spirit, Arthur T. Turtle, Johnny Fresno & Bert Eagle beat Local Competitors Danile Pulpe, Luke Dawson, Jimmy Yates and Robert Lowe, Ayane Nakamura beat Amelika Fifita, British Heavyweight Champion Gavin Owens beat Mr Rumble in a Non-Title Match.

5/10 (Theatr Clwyd Mold, Flintshire, Wales): Eamon Keane, George Thompson and William Payable beat local competitors Ben Taylor, George Fairborn and Stuart Douglas after Thompson, George Grouse and Eugene Bastiens were both disqualified in their match, Jessica Carter, Jenna Jillian Walker and Thaïs Empristikí beat local competitors Maryanne Horne, Yvette Peters and Anne Hamilton, Metallica Panther II beat Baloo, Ladies Wrestling Champion of the World Taylor Connors beat Jenny The Farmer’s Wife in a Non-Title Match, Commonwealth Heavyweight Champion Half-Nelson McGrath beat Terry Grudge in a Non-Title Match.


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Roll Call of Champions

World Heavy-Middleweight - Metallica Panther II
World Lightweight - Jack Sherry
World Trios - Kashiwazaki BLOOD
Ladies Wrestling Champion of the World - Taylor Connors

International Mannschaftskampf - The Black Country Boys (Johnny Doyle & Ricky Gallagher)

Commonwealth Heavyweight - Half-Nelson McGrath

European Heavy-Middleweight - Andreas Marinakis
European Lightweight - Johnny Fresno

British Heavyweight - Gavin Owens



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News Round-Up

Great Britain & Ireland Amateur Challenge: In the venerable tradition of British wrestling, where fortitude of character meets a splendidly robust athleticism, our most esteemed athletes boast an illustrious pedigree grounded firmly in the noble art of amateur wrestling. hrhgeorgevi.boards.net/thread/159/young-talent-britain-ireland-amateurs

The Official Admiral-Lord Mountevans Rankings: The rankings are determined according to the following criteria: a most respectable 3 points shall be awarded for a Win, 1 point for a Draw, and, regrettably, no points at all for a Double Disqualification, a No Contest, or a Loss. hrhgeorgevi.boards.net/thread/160/official-admiral-lord-mountevans-rankings


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Action Set For Sunshine Slammin’ Event In West Indies
By Alan Portz

Prepare yourself for an evening of dazzling escapades as WILD IN THE WEST INDIES comes to life on October 19th at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, Jamaica. Wrestling enthusiasts will find their cups overflowing with excitement.
The night kicks off with Eamon Keane, the all-action stylist from Belfast, squaring off against the ever-so-cocky William Payable from California. One can only imagine the spectacle, with Keane’s energetic style colliding with Payable’s self-assured bravado—one’s sure to leave the ring with a bruised ego!

Next up is a Commonwealth Championship Match, where either the esteemed George Thompson, the number one pound-for-pound wrestler from London, or the formidable Barry Bridges, a former Commonwealth Heavyweight Champion, will face off against the reigning champ, Half-Nelson McGrath from Queensland, Australia. A veritable clash of titans, this bout promises to leave spectators on the edge of their seats, tea cups trembling in hand.

In the pièce de résistance, Johnny Fresno, the former world champion from Bolton, will challenge the current champion, Jack Sherry from Baltimore, in a match that has the crowd buzzing. Having recently emerged from the shadows of an ACL injury, Sherry is eager to reclaim his crown, while Fresno, now the European Lightweight Champion, has something to prove.

Adding to the evening’s charm is the Lightweight West Indies Championship Tournament, featuring a delightful roster of contenders including 'The Phantom' Dante Holding, Devon 'Sugar' Hunt, Jayden 'Smokin' Sobers, and Tristan 'The Kid' Weekes. This promises to be a veritable cornucopia of wrestling talent, each eager to make a name for themselves.

With tickets flying off the shelves, one would be wise to secure a spot for this splendid occasion. Join us for an evening where athletic prowess meets theatrical flair, and be prepared to witness wrestling history in the making at WILD IN THE WEST INDIES!



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A Look at Famous Irish Boxers Turned Professional Wrestlers
By Ciaran Kelly, Irish Correspondent

Barry Moran’s transition from boxing to professional wrestling is far from an isolated journey. The Republic of Ireland boasts a rich history of fighters who left the boxing ring for the excitement and spectacle of professional wrestling. As Moran prepares for his highly anticipated clash with Eamon Keane, we take a look at some of the Irish boxers who paved the way for him.

First on the list is Peter J. Lante, a legend in both sports. Lante, originally from Cork, dominated the Irish boxing scene in the 1950s. Known for his devastating left hook, he captured the Irish Light Heavyweight Championship three times. However, it was his fiery charisma and larger-than-life personality that propelled him into the world of wrestling. With his “Lante Lock” submission hold, he became a household name in European wrestling circuits, paving the way for boxers-turned-wrestlers like Moran.
Donny Adams, the “Pride of Dublin,” followed a similar trajectory. After an undefeated run in the Irish featherweight division during the 1960s, Adams stunned fans by switching to pro wrestling in the 1970s. His high-energy style translated well to the wrestling world, and his signature move, the “Dublin Bash,” earned him multiple heavyweight championships in the UK and beyond.

Niall Stubbs was another boxer from the Republic of Ireland whose fame grew even greater after his transition to professional wrestling. A two-time middleweight champion, Stubbs brought his hard-hitting style to the wrestling ring in the 1970s. His brutal brawling technique, combined with a flair for showmanship, made him one of the most feared competitors in the ring. Known for his “Shillelagh Smash” finisher, Stubbs became a fan favorite, particularly in North America.
Perhaps the most infamous of them all is 'One Eye' Lachlan Reid, who fought his way through Dublin’s toughest boxing gyms in the 1980s. Despite losing his left eye in a street fight, Reid refused to let it end his career. After dominating the Irish heavyweight boxing scene, Reid found new life in wrestling. His aggressive in-ring persona, coupled with his “Reid Hook” knockout punch, made him a cult favorite among wrestling fans.
Like Barry Moran, these fighters were once renowned for their boxing prowess, only to find even greater fame in the world of professional wrestling. If history is any guide, Moran’s future in the ring looks promising.


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Taylor Connors Shatters Expectations
By David Valentine

The latest double feature event from the King George VI Wrestling Club, On The Mat X and Out For The Count, are in the history books and produced quite a number of great wrestling moments. One of these included the Torneo Cibernetico which helped determine the final two competitors who then faced off to be crowned the brand new Ladies’ Wrestling Champion of the World.

After making sure their team came out victorious, as per the rules of the match; the final two women in the match, Penelope Kaplan and Taylor Connors, squared off in a back and forth battle showing just how determined they were to become the champion. In the end, it was Taylor Connors who prevailed after over nine minutes of action and while there wasn’t a phony show of love, mutual respect between the opponents indicated that each side knew this wasn’t the end.

With her championship victory, many eyes were suddenly focused on Taylor Connors and with that attention came a great deal of questions.

Now while the current champion did deny a full length in-depth interview at this time, stating maybe she’ll feel comfortable with one someday, she did offer to give fans and foes alike a general idea of who has taken over the ladies’ division by surprise.

“Guess we should start with the obvious in stating that my name is Taylor Connors. If you’re wondering whether I’m related to someone you might know or got anything tying me to all this mess outside of a crazed want and hate, you’ll be in for some disappointment. I’m no dynasty, no card carrier, no chosen one, and no prodigy. I’m just a person who gave too much to this for too long but finally managed to get a good shine outside the local scene after being passed over for ages in favor of brats and fish.”

“It’s why I’m not taking any of this for granted. Do I see what’s trying to be done? Of course, I’m not the same fool I was when I first got my schooling in. At the same time if I don’t take action and try everything within my power to be the difference, to be the new standard, then I’ll have failed my past and future self who have sacrificed far too much and handled too many bad hands with the tiniest bit of pride. Which, trust me, despite most of those nights ending with me in the wrong place, all that’s still leagues better than what I know some others to have done and worse than that, what they’ll deny doing.”

“Now enough about all that garbage, because we’re beyond that. We’re focusing on what’s good and what’s real, which starts and ends with this title I proudly carry with me. I said it before, I know I’m not what people think of when they think about a classic true world champion of ladies’ wrestling. But I’m exactly what the King George VI Wrestling Club needs and I seriously look forward to an extended period of time showing them, along with the rest of the world, exactly why. One shattered portrait of perceived talent at a time.”



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Yesterday’s Men: Ali Tabriz
By Alan Portz

Ali Tabriz, born in 1926 in Tehran, Imperial State of Persia, grew up in a time when combat sports were revered, and it wasn’t long before he found his way into the wrestling world. A fierce competitor from an early age, Tabriz’s background in traditional Persian wrestling shaped his aggressive and relentless in-ring style. By the late 1940s, he had begun competing professionally, quickly earning a reputation for his brutal, no-nonsense approach.

Tabriz's rise in professional wrestling came during an era when toughness, endurance, and sheer physicality were the sport's cornerstones. His intimidating presence and ruthless tactics earned him the moniker of “The Madman from Tehran.” Tabriz was known for disregarding the conventional rules, often toeing the line of sportsmanship to dismantle his opponents. His ability to absorb punishment and deal out devastating strikes, combined with his unpredictable tactics, made him one of the most feared wrestlers of his time.

In 1961, Tabriz embarked on his first European tour, competing against top wrestlers in England, Germany, and France. The tour solidified his reputation internationally, as he dominated local favorites and impressed crowds with his sheer power and skill. He returned for subsequent tours in 1964 and 1975, leaving an indelible mark on European wrestling circuits. Fans and competitors alike feared his brawling style, with many considering him one of the most dangerous wrestlers on the continent.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Tabriz became known for his legendary rivalries, most notably with Richard Peru. Their intense, hard-fought battles across North America captivated fans, with each match turning into a war of attrition. Tabriz’s tactical mindset combined with his physical prowess made him nearly unbeatable in the ring. His battles often left both competitors bloodied, and his penchant for bending the rules added to his villainous reputation.

Despite being labeled an outlaw of the sport, Tabriz’s relentless drive led him to the pinnacle of wrestling. On April 28, 1979, he achieved the greatest triumph of his career, defeating Danny Randolph to win the All American Wrestling Federation (AAWF) World Heavyweight Championship. The win shocked the wrestling world, as Randolph had been a dominant champion. Tabriz’s victory signaled the arrival of a new era in professional wrestling, where power and cunning could overcome even the most skilled technicians.

Though his reign as champion was brief, Ali Tabriz’s victory was the culmination of years of dedication, skill, and raw intensity. His career, marked by international tours and brutal rivalries, remains one of the most iconic in wrestling history. His impact on the sport transcended borders and generations, with his legacy of chaos and dominance influencing wrestlers worldwide.

Tabriz passed away in 2023 in Florida, USA were he resided following his in-ring retirement.



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Wrestling Wonders: Japanese Grappling Hits New Heights!
By Spencer Cage

As the curtain rises on the exhilarating world of Japanese wrestling, one cannot help but marvel at the remarkable surge of its popularity, which has taken the sporting world by storm. With Tokyo Titans Wrestling Spirit’s (TTWS) splendid weekly television programme now gracing a most esteemed major network, audiences are treated to a delightful thirty-minute highlight reel, showcasing the technical prowess and athletic discipline of this noble sport. This unprecedented success has not only brought the art of grappling into the drawing rooms of countless fans but has firmly established Japan as a veritable powerhouse in the wrestling landscape.

The charm of Japanese wrestling lies not merely in its exhilarating athleticism but in the splendid competitors that grace the squared circle. Spectators are positively enraptured by the larger-than-life wrestlers and the riveting rivalries that unfold before their very eyes. The promotion has managed to strike a delicate balance between showcasing the technical skill and tactical acumen of its wrestlers while infusing each match with a sense of drama, ensuring that the audience remains perched on the edge of their seat, fingers poised for the next round of tea.

Among the luminaries gracing the rings of Japan are a number of British wrestlers who have ascended to the lofty heights of stardom. One such esteemed gentleman is Terry Grudge, renowned for his unyielding spirit and formidable grappling style. Grudge has become a household name, captivating fans with his strategic maneuvers and exceptional conditioning. His meteoric rise serves as a testament to the increasing cross-pollination of wrestling styles and cultures, further enhancing the global appeal of this illustrious sport.

But let us not forget the scintillating trio known as Kashiwazaki BLOOD, the reigning World Trios Champions. This electrifying ensemble has captured the hearts of wrestling enthusiasts with their innovative moves and impeccable teamwork. Their high-octane performances and superb chemistry in the ring have made them colossal stars in Japan, and their eagerly awaited return is causing quite the stir. With a comeback on the books for the next month, fans are positively abuzz with excitement, eagerly anticipating the spectacle of their dynamic reemergence.

In a most delightful twist, whispers of a potential alliance between the Tokyo Titans Wrestling Spirit and the venerable King George VI Wrestling Club have begun to surface. Such a collaboration could herald a new era of cross-promotional matches, elevating the sport to further heights and introducing fans to an exquisite blend of British and Japanese wrestling styles.

As the spotlight shines on Japan’s wrestling scene, it is clear that the country has become a melting pot of talent and creativity, drawing in grapplers from all corners of the globe. The exquisite combination of exceptional skill, compelling narratives, and a fervent fan base has propelled Japanese wrestling into the limelight, setting the stage for a truly exhilarating future.

As fans flock to the arenas and tune in to their wireless sets, it is evident that this vibrant sport has captured the imagination of a nation, ensuring that the best is yet to come, along with a jolly good dose of fun.


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Letters

Dear Editor,

I must take a moment to express my absolute delight in the recent spotlight on women’s wrestling. The performances I’ve witnessed lately have been nothing short of phenomenal, and I cannot help but commend the tremendous skill and dedication displayed by our female grapplers.

Particularly, I am a huge fan of the remarkable Jenna Jillian Walker. Her prowess in the ring, combined with her charismatic presence, makes her an extraordinary ambassador for women’s wrestling. I am convinced it is high time we crown a British champion among our women wrestlers. This achievement would not only elevate the status of female wrestlers but also inspire a new generation of young girls to pursue their dreams in this dynamic sport.

Let us all rally behind our talented women and strive to see them ascend to the pinnacle of wrestling glory.

Yours sincerely,
Felicity Harrington

Dear Editor,

I am writing to appeal to fellow wrestling aficionados in pursuit of a rather personal goal. As an ardent collector of memorabilia from the golden days of wrestling—specifically, autographs of wrestlers who graced the rings before 1990—I am eager to expand my collection with signatures from my childhood heroes.

If any readers possess autographs or memorabilia from those days, I implore you to reach out to me! I would be thrilled to negotiate or simply share stories of our mutual admiration for these legendary grapplers. The thrill of owning a piece of wrestling history brings a joyous nostalgia that simply cannot be replicated.

Yours faithfully,
Arthur Finsbury

Dear Editor,

I wanted to extend my gratitude for the delightful articles and insights your magazine provides. I have been eager to catch the latest episodes of Out For The Count, but alas, I find myself without a satellite television service.

Fortunately, I have found a charming workaround. Each week, my dear friend and I convene at our local Social Club, where we eagerly await the matches, sharing in the excitement and camaraderie with fellow wrestling enthusiasts. It is here, amidst laughter and spirited conversation, that we thoroughly enjoy the grappling action you so brilliantly cover.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to this sport. Your magazine truly enhances our enjoyment of the wrestling world, even without a direct satellite connection!

Warm regards,
Mabel Thornton


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Classifieds

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