RINGSPORT ISSUE 8 | October 2024

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

October 2024
Issue 8

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In this issue:

Editor's Note
Around The Halls
Roll Call of Champions
News Round-Up
Introducing Gentleman George Thompson’s ‘Dapper Duke’ Cane Collection
Class is in Session: The Wrestling Philosophy of Paul 'Pinfall' Peters
Gianluca Silenzi: The Toolmaker from Milan Prepares for the Great Britain & Ireland Amateur Challenge
Yesterday’s Men: Count Garibaldi
Shaping the Future of Women's Wrestling in Great Britain
Spotlight: Top Independent Wrestling Stars
Letters
Classifieds

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Editor’s Note

Ah, dear readers, once again we find ourselves drawn into the tantalising world of holds, slams, and grapples that is professional wrestling. One could argue that no other sport manages to blend the fine art of theatricality with the raw, visceral power of human combat quite like this one. In this month's issue, we delve into the intricacies of what makes these larger-than-life characters so captivating, both inside the squared circle and beyond it. Whether you’re a devotee of technical prowess or a fan of the flamboyant high-flyers, there’s a little something for everyone within these pages.

As we lift the velvet curtain on this month's news and tidbits, allow us to whisk you away on a journey through epic clashes and storied rivalries. From the crushing victories to the most heart-wrenching defeats, every match is a ballet of brutality that leaves us breathless.

To suggest that the past few weeks have been merely "interesting" would be an immense understatement of the highest order.

Yours in sport,

Elliot Wanderinghands


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Around The Halls

12/10 (Edinburgh, Scotland): Bert Eagle beat Tiger Kid, Arthur T. Turtle beat Jack O Grady, Jenna Jillian Walker & Thaïs Empristikí beat Taylor Connors) & Penelope Kaplan, Barry Bridges and George Thompson wrestled to a draw.

13/10 (Edinburgh, Scotland): The Black Country Boys – Johnny Doyle & Ricky Gallagher beat Mr. Rumble & The Black Prince to retain the International Mannschaftskampf Titles, Ayane Nakamura beat King Kyoto, Kashiwazaki BLOOD beat The Tongan Warriors & Baloo, Gavin Owens beat Half-Nelson McGrath in a non-title match.

19/10 (Montego Bay, Jamaica): Dante Holding beat Devon Hunt, Eamon Keane beat William Payable, Tristan Weekes beat Jayden Sobers, George Thompson beat Half-Nelson McGrath to win the Commonwealth Heavyweight Title, Tristan Weekes beat Dante Holding to win the West Indies Lightweight Title, Jack Sherry beat Johnny Fresno to retain the Worlds Lightweight Title.

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Roll Call of Champions

World Heavy-Middleweight - Bulldog Spirit
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)
International Frauen-Berufsringer Championship - Meritites

Commonwealth Heavyweight - George Thompson

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

British Heavyweight - Gavin Owens

West Indies Lightweight Champion - Tristan Weekes

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News Round-Up


Statement by Lord Darcey Wickham, Lead Investigator of the Admiral-Lord Mountevans Committee hrhgeorgevi.boards.net/thread/195/statement-lord-darcey-wickham-investigator

The KING GEORGE VI WRESTLING CLUB confirms that the Ladies' Wrestling Champion of the World, Taylor Connors, will no longer be appearing at its events. hrhgeorgevi.boards.net/thread/196/ladies-wrestling-championship-world

Amendments To Upcoming Televised Shows hrhgeorgevi.boards.net/thread/197/memorandum-amendments-upcoming-televised-shows

The Great Britain & Ireland Amateur Challenge starts in two weeks time with eight young hopefuls looking to earn themselves a professional wrestling contract. One of which is Heavy-Middleweight Gianluca Silenzi, a toolmaker by trade, was born in England and brought up in Italy as a child by his Italian grandparents. hrhgeorgevi.boards.net/thread/199/ringsport-magazine-exclusive-gianluca-silenzi

The ever-ferocious and exotically titled Masked Indian star Rajasthan Tiger has, alas, been forced to withdraw from the Great Britain & Ireland Amateur Challenge due to what can only be described as “visa entanglements” of the most inconvenient variety. hrhgeorgevi.boards.net/thread/211/unexpected-substitution-on-mat-xii

It is with great pride that the KING GEORGE VI WRESTLING CLUB announces a historic event to be held on the twenty-third of November at Fairfield Halls, Croydon, England. hrhgeorgevi.boards.net/thread/222/glitter-eyes-announcement

Admiral-Lord Mountevans Committee confirms the rules for the Beat The Clock Knockdown Match between William Miller Harris and Tiger Kid hrhgeorgevi.boards.net/thread/229/memorandum-clock-knockdown-match-rules

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Introducing Gentleman George Thompson’s ‘Dapper Duke’ Cane Collection
By: Arthur Pembroke

In a bold move blending old-world charm with modern-day luxury, professional wrestler and British aristocrat George “The Gentleman” Thompson has officially launched his own line of bespoke canes, the Dapper Duke Collection. Known for his sharp suits, bowler hats, and aristocratic demeanor inside the wrestling ring, Thompson is bringing his impeccable taste and style to a new venture that promises to bring elegance to the masses—albeit, those who can afford the finer things in life.

The Dapper Duke Collection features a range of hand-crafted walking sticks, each designed with precision and opulence. Made from the finest materials—such as mahogany, ebony, and ivory—the canes are adorned with handles fashioned from sterling silver and gold, often featuring intricate designs, family crests, and personalized engravings. A signature piece of the collection is the “Gentleman’s Honor Cane”, which boasts a silver lion-head handle and black lacquered finish, symbolizing strength and sophistication.

In a recent interview, Thompson described the inspiration behind the collection:
“A gentleman must always carry himself with dignity, both in and out of the ring. These canes are not mere accessories; they are statements of power, poise, and prestige. A true gentleman never walks alone—he walks with purpose and elegance.”

The line is targeted at those who appreciate high-end luxury, with each cane crafted by expert artisans in London. The collection starts at £1,500 for the standard pieces, with custom-made options available for discerning buyers, reaching prices as high as £10,000. According to sources close to Thompson, several celebrities, athletes, and business elites have already placed orders for their bespoke designs.

Thompson has been spotted carrying various versions of his canes to the ring during his wrestling appearances, where the accessory is as much a weapon as it is a fashion statement. The canes have become a key part of his persona in the wrestling world, signifying his cunning and dominance.

Fans of both wrestling and fashion are eager to get their hands on the new line, with early reviews praising the craftsmanship and attention to detail. While many critics note that the prices make it an exclusive product, Thompson is unapologetic about his brand’s position in the luxury market.

“These are not canes for the common man,” Thompson asserted with his trademark arrogance. “Only those with the true spirit of nobility will appreciate what the Dapper Duke Collection represents.”

The Dapper Duke Collection is now available for purchase through select luxury retailers and the official Gentleman George Thompson website.

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Class is in Session: The Wrestling Philosophy of Paul 'Pinfall' Peters
By James Langford

In a world dominated by high-flying antics and over-the-top theatrics, there’s one man who stands out—Paul 'Pinfall' Peters. Known for his no-nonsense approach to the ring, Peters is not here to entertain you, and he’s quick to make that known.

“I’m not here to entertain you,” he says. “I’m not here for the flashy moves. You won’t see me flying off the top rope or dancing around the ring. No. What you will see is something that this sport has forgotten... wrestling.”

It’s this focus on the fundamentals that separates Peters from many of his contemporaries.

“You see, I’ve been doing this for years—grinding on the mats, mastering the craft,” he continues, his voice steady and assured. “And, my opponent? He’s got a name everyone recognizes. Les Nevis. The grandson of a legend. Giant Nevis—a man who cast a shadow over this ring, a man whose legacy lives on in his bloodline.”

But for Peters, lineage means little once the bell rings.

“Names don’t mean anything once you’re tied up in that ring. Legacy doesn’t help you when you’re on your back, shoulders to the mat. Les, I don’t care who your grandfather was,” Peters states flatly. “When you step in the ring with me, you’ll learn that all the expectations in the world can’t save you from a man who knows how to wrestle.”

Peters doesn’t just prepare for matches; he prepares for lessons.

“Les Nevis,” Peters says with a smirk, “welcome to the wrestling lesson of your life. Class is in session.”

Paul Peters faces Les Nevis in the Great Britain & Ireland Amateur Challenge on 26 October’s ‘On The Mat XII’ from Hastings.


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Gianluca Silenzi: The Toolmaker from Milan Prepares for the Great Britain & Ireland Amateur Challenge
By Alan Portz


The Great Britain & Ireland Amateur Challenge is fast approaching, and among the talented competitors vying for a professional wrestling contract is Gianluca Silenzi, a 25-year-old Heavy-Middleweight with a background that’s as unique as his approach to the mat.

Born in Milan to a bilingual family, Gianluca was raised speaking both Italian and English, splitting his formative years between Italy and England. This dual heritage has shaped not just his character, but also his wrestling style, blending the discipline and precision of Italian craftsmanship with the grit of British wrestling tradition.

Before stepping into the ring, Gianluca honed a different kind of skill—toolmaking. Working in both Turin and Milan, Silenzi spent years mastering this trade, where precision and patience are key. “Toolmaking taught me how to focus,” he explains. “Every detail matters, just like in wrestling. One wrong move, and everything falls apart.”

But wrestling has always been in his heart. Growing up in a family that appreciated both the arts and sports, Gianluca found himself drawn to weightlifting as a way to build his strength and discipline.
“Weightlifting is where it all started,” he says. “It gave me the power, but wrestling gave me the control.”

Despite his humble, workmanlike background, Gianluca’s admiration for the sport goes beyond brute strength. He’s a devoted student of both amateur and professional wrestling, finding inspiration in each style’s unique demands. “Amateur wrestling teaches discipline and technique, while professional wrestling allows for more creativity,” Silenzi reflects. “Both have their place, but to me, the best wrestlers are the ones who can blend the two—who have real skill and can adapt to any situation in the ring.”

Gianluca is set to face 'The Silent Swahili' Mwangi in what promises to be a thrilling bout. Mwangi’s athleticism and mystique will pose a tough challenge, but Silenzi remains calm and focused. “I respect Mwangi’s skill,” he says, noting the two met in the Commonwealth Freestyle Tournament in 2022, where he represented Great Britain before settling on representing Italy , “but this isn’t about flair for me. It’s about wrestling. Pure, disciplined, wrestling.”

At 207 lbs and standing 6’1”, Silenzi is physically imposing, but it’s his technical prowess that makes him a formidable opponent. He’s competed across Europe, representing Italy at various youth and amateur levels, and his journey has been marked by a relentless drive to perfect his craft.

“I’ve had offers to turn professional before,” Gianluca admits. “But I’ve waited. I want my first professional engagement to be with a promoter of international standing. Until then, I’ll keep doing what I love—wrestling.”

As the Great Britain & Ireland Amateur Challenge looms, Gianluca Silenzi is ready. The toolmaker from Milan has the skill, the strength, and the determination to make his mark. But one thing is clear—whether amateur or professional, Silenzi’s love for wrestling will always be rooted in the fundamentals. And come match day, he’s prepared to show Mwangi, and the world, just what that means.


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Yesterday’s Men: Count Garibaldi
By Alan Portz

For Count Garibaldi, it was never about seeking popularity—it was about earning the respect of the fans. To some, the distinction might seem subtle, even trivial, but to Garibaldi, it was everything. On one occasion, when a scheduling error by a promoter led to his absence from a show, Garibaldi made a special trip to the next event at the same venue to personally apologize to the fans for not appearing as advertised. That gesture spoke volumes about his character.

Count Garibaldi’s career was marked by his short neck—a result of a near career-ending injury in 1956—and his slightly hunched movements, both of which became unmistakable traits. But there was more to Garibaldi than his physical presence. He embodied all the qualities of one of the finest and most successful post-war heavyweights in British wrestling. Having turned professional in 1939, Garibaldi adopted a mask after the war, becoming known as "Count Garibaldi." Even as a masked wrestler, he was a crowd favorite. While he adhered to the rules, he could also be ruthlessly effective. Many opponents fell victim to his signature move: pulling out of an Irish whip at the last second, causing his adversaries to dislocate a shoulder.

Over a span of two decades, Count Garibaldi remained nearly undefeated, becoming one of the biggest names in British wrestling—despite never appearing on television during that time. As British Empire Heavyweight Champion, Garibaldi was a feared competitor and traveled the globe, active in Africa and Australia.

His most famous match is when he was unmasked by Akido Hiroshima in 1966 in Stoke in a £500-a-side stakes, the “Loser to Unmask” match made with No Rounds and No Time Limit, which has become a legendary encounter for fans. In the bout itself Garibaldi tried persistently for submissions via a grapevine. The packed crowd, with with not a space to be had in the aisles and alcoves, roared their nigh on unanimous support for Count Garibaldi. The Count was helped back into the ring where he was officially unmasked.

Following his unmasking Garibaldi entered a second, equally successful phase of his career. He became a regular face on television, cementing his place as a true wrestling icon.
Count Garibaldi’s respect for his fans and peers was evident, and it’s what makes him a true legend both in and out of the ring.


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Shaping the Future of Women's Wrestling in Great Britain


Ahead of the groundbreaking Glitter In Their Eyes event on 23 November at the historic Fairfield Halls, Croydon, we sat down with Baroness Stanton, Vice Chair of the Admiral-Lord Mountevans Committee, to discuss the significance of this historic all non-male wrestling showcase and the evolution of women’s wrestling in Great Britain.

Interviewer: Baroness Stanton, Glitter In Their Eyes is being hailed as a landmark event. What does this mean for women's wrestling in Great Britain?

Baroness Stanton: Glitter In Their Eyes is more than just a wrestling event—it’s a statement. For years, women's wrestling has been an undervalued part of our sport. This show is a celebration of the talent, athleticism, and dedication that female wrestlers bring to the ring. It’s a pivotal moment for us, not only to recognize the skill of these competitors but also to elevate their platform on a global scale.

Interviewer: You’ve been a strong advocate for advancing women’s wrestling. What inspired you to take on this role?

Baroness Stanton: Wrestling has been a lifelong passion of mine, and as Vice Chair of the Admiral-Lord Mountevans Committee, I saw an opportunity to make a real difference. The women in this sport have always been fighters, both in and out of the ring, and they deserve to have their stories told. My goal is to ensure that they have the same opportunities, recognition, and respect that their male counterparts have enjoyed for generations.

Interviewer: I must ask about Taylor Connors, the Ladies Wrestling Champion of the World and her exit from KING GEORGE VI WRESTLING CLUB.

Baroness Stanton: There’s not much I can comment on that, the Admiral-Lord Mountevans Committee are not responsible for athletes' contracts with promoters. Ms Connors has left the promotion’s list of active wrestlers but retains the Championship as she did not lose it and has not vacated it.

Interviewer: Is it not damaging that a World Champion is not active in Great Britain?

Baroness Stanton: We have no divine right to have World Champions wrestle in our halls and I am not a proponent of promoters adding ‘new’ titles just to crown their own World Champion.

Interviewer: So the International Frauen-Berufsringer Championship?

Baroness Stanton: Is 100% Unofficial as far as the Committee is concerned.

Interviewer: Back to the event, which will feature the Courage Tag Series and a Battle Royale for the British Women's Championship. What can fans expect from these matches?

Baroness Stanton: Fans are in for an unforgettable night. Speaking with the Matchmaker for the event I understand that The Courage Tag Series will be a fierce competition—tag team wrestling is all about chemistry, strategy, and resilience. Every team in this tournament has something to prove, and I know we’ll see some extraordinary performances. As for the Battle Royale, the winner will be crowned the new British Women’s Champion, which is a monumental achievement. It’s not just about the title; it’s about what it represents—years of hard work, overcoming obstacles, and finally standing at the pinnacle of British wrestling.

Interviewer: Glitter In Their Eyes will also be broadcast, making it accessible to a much wider audience. How important is this visibility for the future of women’s wrestling?

Baroness Stanton: Incredibly important. Television gives us a platform to showcase these talented athletes to people who may not have had the chance to see them before. By bringing this event into living rooms across the world, we’re inviting a new generation of fans to fall in love with women’s wrestling. Visibility is key to breaking down barriers and ensuring the sport continues to grow.

Interviewer: What are your hopes for the future of women’s wrestling after Glitter In Their Eyes?

Baroness Stanton: I hope this event is just the beginning. I want to see more opportunities for women, more main event spots, and ultimately, more respect for the craft they dedicate their lives to. Glitter In Their Eyes is a celebration, yes, but it’s also a call to action. The future of wrestling is inclusive, and it’s time we all recognized that.

As Glitter In Their Eyes approaches, it’s clear that Baroness Stanton’s passion and vision are driving forces behind this evolution. On the twenty-third of November, wrestling fans will witness history—and the beginning of a new era for women’s wrestling in Great Britain.


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Spotlight: Top Independent Wrestling Stars
By Henry Dubrerry

While the cream of the crop of professional wrestling can be found in KING GEORGE VI WRESTLING CLUB venues, we look at four independent talents currently tipped for big things in the future and potential stars of KING GEORGE VI WRESTLING CLUB.

The Unknown
Hometown: Mexico City, Mexico
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 180 lbs

The Unknown is an enigmatic figure in the wrestling world, embodying the mystique of lucha libre. Donning a striking mask adorned with intricate designs, this agile grappler is known for his high-flying maneuvers and unpredictable fighting style. With an impressive array of acrobatics, including flips, dives, and submissions, The Unknown captivates audiences with his charisma and skill. Despite his masked identity, he has a reputation for being a fierce competitor, often leaving opponents bewildered in the ring. His legacy is built on thrilling matches that blur the lines between hero and villain, making him a beloved figure in the wrestling community.

Sherlock
Hometown: London, England
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 220 lbs

Sherlock combines wrestling prowess with a detective's cunning. Known for his technical expertise and submission grappling, Sherlock dominates his opponents with a methodical approach that mirrors the analytical nature of his persona. His ring attire features a trench coat and a deerstalker hat, adding to his unique identity. With a reputation for solving the toughest challenges in the ring, Sherlock's matches often play out like thrilling mysteries, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. His relentless pursuit of victory, paired with a strategic mindset, makes him a formidable competitor in any match.

Bear Breath
Hometown: Anchorage, Alaska
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 290 lbs

Bear Breath is a powerhouse wrestler known for his sheer strength and explosive presence. Standing tall and robust, he commands respect in the ring, often overwhelming his opponents with his brawling style. Bear Breath's signature moves include devastating slams and powerful strikes, showcasing his background in amateur wrestling. Beyond his physicality, he has a playful yet intimidating persona, engaging the crowd with his charismatic antics. With a reputation as a fierce competitor, Bear Breath leaves a lasting impression on both fans and foes alike, embodying the spirit of a true wrestling bear.

Steel Talon
Hometown: Tokyo, Japan
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 235 lbs

Steel Talon is a grappler renowned for his hard-hitting style and relentless determination. With a strong martial arts background, Steel Talon incorporates strikes and submissions that reflect his technical prowess and toughness. His ring attire features metallic elements and sharp designs, embodying his moniker, while his stoic demeanor instills fear in opponents. Steel Talon's matches are characterized by fierce intensity, often showcasing his ability to withstand punishment and turn the tide in his favor. As a formidable competitor, he has earned a reputation for being a warrior in the ring, captivating fans with his resilience and skill.

With their unique styles, captivating personas, and unwavering determination, The Unknown, Sherlock, Bear Breath, and Steel Talon are not just wrestlers; they are warriors of the ring, battling their way to future glory. Keep an eye on these rising stars, as they are sure to elevate the sport and leave an indelible impact on the wrestling landscape for years to come.

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Letters

Dear Editor,

I am writing to express my growing concern over the current state of professional wrestling, which seems to be veering more and more into gimmickry and cartoonish antics that have no place in our sport. It is becoming increasingly clear that wrestling today is starting to resemble the less-than-legitimate, classless brand of American wrestling that many of us hoped to avoid.

In particular, the recent introduction of the "Beat The Clock Knockdown Match" has crossed a line. This format not only trivialises the art of wrestling but also disrespects the long-standing traditions of skill and endurance that should be showcased in the ring. A race against time for knockdowns belongs nowhere near a sport that prides itself on genuine competition. It is not only a gimmick but an insult to the intelligence of loyal fans who value athleticism over spectacle.

I urge you to use your platform to speak out against this degradation of wrestling, especially when such absurdities are tolerated on television. Wrestling deserves better than to be reduced to a carnival sideshow.

Sincerely,
Sean Armstrong


Dear Editor,

As an avid reader of RINGSPORT MAGAZINE, I greatly appreciate the diverse range of topics you cover in the world of professional wrestling. I was wondering if you might consider doing an article in the future on the history of wrestling in Luxembourg.

Though it’s a small country, Luxembourg has a unique and interesting wrestling heritage that I believe would make for a fascinating read. It would be great to shine a light on the wrestlers and events that have shaped the sport there, as this aspect of wrestling history is often overlooked.

Best wishes,
Jeff Strasser-Thrill


Dear Editor,

I am writing to express my concerns regarding the recent departures of Taylor Connors and Penelope Kaplan, two standout athletes in women's wrestling at KING GEORGE VI WRESTLING CLUB. Their absence has left a noticeable gap, and it raises important questions about the future of the women’s division within the club.

Taylor and Penelope were not only incredible competitors but also pivotal figures in promoting women's wrestling at a time when the sport desperately needs strong representation. With their exits, I worry that the progress made in elevating women’s wrestling in the club may be at risk. The women’s division deserves the same level of investment and attention as the men’s, and I hope that the promoter remains committed to fostering new talent and ensuring that women's wrestling continues to thrive.


Sincerely,
Amanda Serqueece


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Classifieds

FOR SALE: LUXURY “GENTLEMAN’S” MOTOR CAR
1952 Austin. She’s sleek, she’s chic, and she only overheats on Thursdays! Ideal for those who enjoy a little adventure on the open road. Features: a horn that works occasionally, a boot that’s mostly dry, and a wireless that only plays the Light Programme. £100 or nearest offer (includes complimentary push start). Call Murray: BRItain 56789.

WANTED: LODGER WITH NO TASTE IN MUSIC
Seeking quiet, non-smoking gentleman to share spacious flat in London. Rent includes access to the fridge, occasional use of the cooker, and an absolute ban on jazz or skiffle. Strictly classical music and the sweet sound of silence preferred. Must be able to split the cost of the coal, as we expect the boiler to pack up by Christmas. Apply at Flat 4B, High Street.

FOR SALE: GENUINE LEOPARD COAT (NO QUESTIONS, PLEASE)
Authentic leopard fur coat, worn only once by a very startled husband. Excellent condition, perfect for dinners, theatre, or plotting revenge on your unfaithful chap. Warning: may attract attention at the zoo. £50 or swap for an alibi. Contact Mrs. Jones, Acacia Avenue, near the grocer’s.

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