Statement by Lord Darcey Wickham, Lead Investigator

My dear friends and esteemed members of the wrestling community,

It is with great honour and a profound sense of duty that I have accepted the role of Lead Investigator, appointed by the Admiral-Lord Mountevans Committee, to examine the rather troubling occurrences during the contest between Mr. Barry Bridges and Mr. George Thompson, held at the venerable Eldorado Stadium in Edinburgh on the 12th of October.

Our investigation shall be comprehensive, and no stone will be left unturned as we address the concerns raised. First and foremost, we shall direct our inquiry to the officiating of the match. It is essential that the conduct and decisions of the referees on the night be scrutinised in the utmost detail, ensuring that their actions adhered to the high standards and regulations we hold dear within the sport.

In addition, the matter of medical supervision at ringside will be thoroughly examined. The well-being of the competitors is paramount, and it is vital that proper procedures were in place to address any injuries or health concerns that may have arisen during the bout.

We shall also direct our attention to the protocol for referee incapacitation or unavailability during a match. It is essential that there are clear and effective measures in place should a referee be rendered unable to perform his duties, and that these measures were followed with the requisite alacrity.

Finally, we shall investigate the issue of jurisdiction in determining the outcome of the match. The authority responsible for declaring the final result must be clear, unequivocal, and beyond reproach, so as to uphold the integrity of the sport.

I give my solemn word that this inquiry will be both thorough and impartial, conducted with the dignity and decorum that befits the traditions of wrestling. We aim to preserve the fairness, safety, and honour of the sport, which has long been held in high esteem by those of noble and humble backgrounds alike.

Upon the conclusion of our investigation, a full and detailed report will be published in February 2025. We shall ensure that all recommendations for improvements to procedure and governance are implemented to avoid any future improprieties or confusion.

Yours faithfully,
Lord Darcey Wickham
Lead Investigator