RINGSPORT ISSUE 5 | September 2024

September 2024
Issue 5

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In this issue:

Editors Note
Around The Halls
Roll Call of Champions
News Round-Up
Q&A With Barry Bridges
McGrath Is One Of Australia’s Great Hopes
Mind v Muscle with Eamon Keane
Brawls and Biscuits: How to Maintain Elegance While Wrestling with Cake Crumbs
Champions On The Brink
From North London To Wrestling Glory
America’s New Star
Letter of the Month
Classifieds

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Editors Note
By Elliot Wanderinghands

The return of professional wrestling to our screens was a memorable occasion and my congratulations must go to Metallica Panther II who was crowned the new Worlds Heavy-Middleweight Champion, he has shown just how talented his family are in the great sport of wrestling. I was though, disappointed to see Eamon Keane appear in the ring after the match. Keane was not booked as a wrestler on the show and our records state clearly that as a Heavyweight he had no business being involved.

In these pages our Irish correspondent has spoken to Mr Keane, if like me you’d like to see him do his talking in the ring then you’ll be excited to see him in an upcoming tag team match-up.

We have interviews, news and gossip from many stars of the wrestling halls and I’m sure you’ll very much enjoy this publication.

Best,
Elliot

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Around The Halls

31/8 (Stockton-On-Tees, County Durham): Metallica Panther II ( beat William Miller Harris in the Worlds Heavy-Middleweight Tournament Match, Barry Moran beat Quick Kick Nakano in the Worlds Heavy-Middleweight Tournament Match, Tiger Kid beat Mr Rumble in a Catchweight Contest, Gavin Owens beat Geoff Hammill, Bert Eagle, Johnny Fresno and George Grouse beat Kenji Nakamura, Akira Tanaka and Hiroshi Suzuki, Metallica Panther II beat Barry Moran to become the Worlds Heavy-Middleweight Champion in the tournament final.

6/9 (Leicester, Leicestershire): In a first round match up for the Duke of Rutland’s Cup Terry Grudge beat Eamon 'Muscle' Keane, in a first round match up for the Duke of Rutland’s Cup Geoff Hammill beat The Black Prince, in a first round match up for the Duke of Rutland’s Cup George Thompson beat William Payable, in a first round match up for the Duke of Rutland’s Cup William Miller Harris beat Robert Lowe, Bulldog Spirit & Metallica Panther II Gavin Owens & Quick Kick Nakano fought to a time limit draw. In a semi-final match up for the Duke of Rutland’s Cup Geoff Hammill beat Terry Grudge in a semi-final match up for the Duke of Rutland’s Cup George Thompson beat William Miller Harris, Bert Eagle & Johnny Fresno beat George Grouse, in the final of the Duke of Rutland’s Cup George Thompson beat Geoff Hammill to win the Duke of Rutland’s Cup.

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Roll Call of Champions

World Heavy-Middleweight - Metallica Panther II
World Lightweight - Jack Sherry
World Trios - Kashiwazaki BLOOD

Commonwealth Heavyweight - Barry Bridges

European Heavy-Middleweight - Andreas Marinakis
European Lightweight - Vacant

British Heavyweight - Geoff Hammill

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News Round-Up

The Admiral-Lord Mountevans Committee are running a course for budding wrestling referees in Cavendish, Suffolk. Read More - hrhgeorgevi.boards.net/thread/81/punches-pointers-wrestling-refs-training

'Out For The Count' to Air on Luxembourg-based satellite television station The Super Channel with a new fortnightly wrestling show featuring one exclusive match in full, plus highlights from unaired matches, along with bonus footage from 'On The Mat'. Read More - hrhgeorgevi.boards.net/thread/75/out-count-air-super-channel

Eight new stars have been added to the growing roster managed by KING GEORGE VI WRESTLING CLUB. Read More - hrhgeorgevi.boards.net/thread/69/new-stars-added

Wrestling fans are eagerly counting down to the "Tango in Tonga" events, a two-night extravaganza that is poised to be a standout on the sporting calendar. This historic occasion, set to coincide with the birthday celebrations of Crown Prince Tupouto'a-'Ulukalala will showcase an exhilarating array of international wrestling talent, making it an unforgettable experience in the Pacific. Read More - hrhgeorgevi.boards.net/thread/66/released-wrestlers-ready-titanic-showdown

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Q&A With ‘Battling’ Barry Bridges

Each month RINGSPORT MAGAZINE will present a 'Question and Answer' forum with an important figure in the wrestling world. It is your chance to meet wrestling's biggest stars as they answer the questions uppermost in fans' minds.

Q: Do you like Darts?
A: Yes I am a keen player, I currently play mixed doubles for the White Cockatoo Hotel in Margate Kent.

Q: What have you been doing with your time away from the ring?
A: I have a number of business ventures that have been taking my time, including a Model Railway Shop in the Welsh Valleys and a campsite near Tunbridge Wells, with 103 pitches on the banks of the River Irwell.

Q: You have wrestled all over the world but which is your favourite country to visit?
A: To wrestle then it has to be Zimbabwe, but for a holiday then Spain.

Q: How have you been staying fit during your time away from the ring?
A: I have two German Shepherds that I walk twice a day, I also like to canoe.

Q: How have you been preparing for your return to the ring against Half-Nelson McGrath?
A: I’ve been back on the mats training three evenings a week at the Midway Amateur Wrestling Club.

Q: What do you have on your toast?
A: Two scrambled eggs!


"Battling" Barry Bridges, one of Britain's most celebrated heavyweights, is making a highly anticipated return to the wrestling ring after a two-year hiatus. Standing at 6'2" and weighing 251 pounds, Bridges is known for his hard-hitting, technical style. Despite his retirement, Bridges retained his Commonwealth Heavyweight Championship title, having never been defeated for it. Now, at 43, he's stepping back into the spotlight for a special two-night event in Tonga, where he will defend the Championship & Belt against Half-Nelson MGrath.


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McGrath Is One Of Australia’s Great Hopes

Australia could have no finer international heavyweight challenger than Half-Nelson McGrath, the Queenslander respected everywhere ‘down under’ for his gritty determination in the ring and all-round wrestling ability.

His upcoming Commonwealth Heavyweight title bout against famed competitor Barry Bridges is the biggest opportunity of McGrath’s blossoming career. The solidly built star from the small town of Wonglepong has earned his opportunity through a number of successful showings in the wrestling halls of Australia and really hit the highspots during the Queensland Open Poundage Cup which he won earlier this year, where he produced his best-ever form in bouts against much experienced competitors.

Although by no means in the super-heavyweight category, McGrath has made his mark among his country’s best with a combination of all-around wrestling ability and typical Aussie grit, much of it stemming from the grounding received in the famous Bert Oakley gym.

The Townsville gym was swept aside before a motorway building project but its products have made a lasting ring impression with McGrath very much in the forefront. He also received a lot of help and encouragement from another wrestling great, former European welterweight Champion Alan Steele, who retired to the sun-kissed life enjoyed in Australia.

A successful outing against British wrestling’s famous Barry Bridges and becoming the Commonwealth Heavyweight kingpin at the same time will surely mean Half-Nelson McGrath will end up in the rings of Great Britain.

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Mind v Muscle with Eamon Keane
By Ciaran Kelly, Irish Correspondent

A few years ago, when Metallica Panther III was the World Lightweight Champion, I forecast that the Bolton star would hold that belt for some considerable time. I was wrong, of course; Johnny Frenso was able to recapture that championship and belt. Now, while the third Panther is producing and acting in motion pictures throughout Latin America, it is his brother Metallica Panther II who is now the Heavy-Middleweight Champion of the World.

But his championship celebrations were cut short when Northern Irishman Eamon ‘Muscle’ Keane interrupted them.

When I spoke to Eamon Keane recently, the man who is feared in the rings across the British Isles left no doubt that he believes he is the greatest competitor today. Despite being a Heavyweight himself, I asked him why he wanted to confront the Mexican.

He refused to answer my question. When I suggested that he might have been jealous of the limelight another competitor was receiving, he said:

“Ah, sure, Metallica Panther might have won the title, but like his brother, they're both useless. Just remindin’ him he’s not even the best wrestler in his own family.”

“So ye’d like to meet him in a catchweight contest?” I asked.

“I wouldn’t give that eejit the chance to make a payday off a bona fide legend like meself.”

Keane, who is frequently disqualified from his matches for poor in-ring conduct, will team with American William Miller Harris to take on Metallica Panther III and Irishman Barry Moran in a tag match when ‘On The Mat’ returns to our screens on 14 September. But it’s not a match that Keane is relishing.

“I don’t care for tag matches,” he told me. “Why should I be puttin’ me trust in anyone else to wrestle on me behalf?”

In an era of many great heavyweights, Keane is not yet focused on claiming a championship belt.

“I only want to hurt people. If I get a leather belt because of that - grand; if not, then it doesn’t bother me!”

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Brawls and Biscuits: How to Maintain Elegance While Wrestling with Cake Crumbs
Lady Felicity Butterwhisk

Ah, my dear readers, one finds oneself in a somewhat perplexing predicament this evening. You see, I’ve been summoned, as if by the very hand of Providence, to pontificate on the appropriate comestibles one might partake of during the interval—I believe that’s the term—of a wrestling show. Wrestling! Good gracious. A sport so savage, so brutish, that it’s scarcely the sort of thing one’s Aunt Agatha would approve of, though I dare say Uncle Percival might take a liking to it after his third brandy. But I digress.

The real question before us is: what on earth does one nibble on while these chaps are throwing each other about like discontented toddlers? Well, as a gentleman of refined taste (and a proud enthusiast of all things cakey), I can tell you that the interval of any event, no matter how, er, physical, requires one thing above all else: proper sustenance. And by sustenance, I of course mean cake.

Let us begin with the cake, that most noble of indulgences. A wrestling interval, I am certain, demands something sturdy yet refined—much like a well-tailored waistcoat. I suggest a Victoria Sponge, light and airy with the gentle cushioning of jam and cream, as a perfect foil to the chaos of brawny fellows hurling themselves about. It has the added advantage of being easily consumed between polite, if confused, applause. If you're feeling particularly bold, a slice of Battenberg wouldn’t go amiss, its neat little squares of pink and yellow an architectural marvel of confectionery, almost like a wrestling ring for marzipan.

Now, onto the sandwiches. One must never underestimate the power of a good sandwich in such circumstances. Wrestling is, I imagine, a rather sweaty affair, and one’s refreshment should counteract the overwhelming vigour of the proceedings. I propose the classic cucumber sandwich, cut into dainty triangles, with the crusts removed, of course. The coolness of the cucumber, the gentility of the butter – it’s as if you’re reassuring your stomach that civilisation still exists, even if you’ve just witnessed two grown men locked in what I can only describe as a fraternal disagreement on a canvas mat.

For those with heartier appetites, a coronation chicken sandwich might suffice, with a mild curry flavour providing just the right amount of spice to enliven the senses without dragging you into the arena yourself. A little dash of flamboyance, as it were, but nothing too reckless.

So, there you have it. While I may know next to nothing about the art of wrestling, I can assure you that the key to enjoying it lies in the interval – and the cakes and sandwiches therein. If I may say so, stick to the sponge and cucumber, and leave the wrestling to the experts. Cheerio!

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Champions on the Brink
By Mr. Hiroshi

In the bustling world of professional wrestling, where every match holds the potential to alter the course of careers, the upcoming bout in Tonga promises to be a pivotal moment for Japan's own Akira "Dark Wolf" Tanaka and Hiroshi "The Titan" Suzuki. Competing under the banner of Kashiwazaki BLOOD, these esteemed World Trios Champions have recently faced a setback in the UK, suffering a televised defeat at the hands of the formidable duo Bert Eagle and Johnny Fresno, alongside George Grouse.

The stakes could not be higher as Tanaka and Suzuki prepare for their next challenge, set to unfold in the historic context of Crown Prince Tupouto'a’s birthday celebrations in Tonga. This prestigious event not only adds a layer of cultural significance but also amplifies the importance of their performance.

Manu and Tevita Maʻafu, the reigning tag team champions from Tonga, will be their opponents—a team renowned for their sheer strength and tactical prowess. The Maʻafu brothers, celebrated for their intimidating presence and technical skill, will be a formidable test for the Japanese champions.

Victory in Tonga is crucial for Tanaka and Suzuki. A win would not only restore their confidence after the recent loss but also solidify their reputation on an international stage. The historical backdrop of Crown Prince Tupouto'a’s birthday makes this match an even more momentous occasion. The significance of performing well in front of a royal audience, combined with the pride of representing Kashiwazaki BLOOD, elevates the stakes to an unprecedented level.

Adding to the intrigue is the following night’s confrontation, where Tanaka and Suzuki will face each other in a highly anticipated singles match. Fans and analysts are abuzz with speculation about whether this bout will be a display of technical finesse or devolve into a fierce and gritty battle. The contrast between their collaborative efforts and individual rivalries will provide a compelling spectacle. Will their match be a clean contest showcasing their mutual respect, or will it escalate into a dramatic clash that reflects their competitive spirit?

As anticipation builds, both Akira Tanaka and Hiroshi Suzuki find themselves at a crossroads, with their performance in Tonga poised to shape the trajectory of their careers. The coming days promise a dramatic and enthralling series of events that will undoubtedly capture the imagination of wrestling fans worldwide.

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From North London To Wrestling Glory

Gavin Owen, known in the wrestling world as "The London Thrower" brings a unique blend of athleticism and passion to the King George VI Wrestling Club. His journey from the streets of North London to the wrestling ring is a compelling tale of dedication, grit, and unwavering love for his roots.

A North London Start

Growing up in the vibrant community of North London, Gavin was immersed in the rich tapestry of local culture and football fervour. The red and white trunks he sports in the ring are not merely a fashion choice but a tribute to his beloved Arsenal FC, a team that has been a source of inspiration and pride throughout his life.

“I’ve always been a massive Arsenal fan,” Gavin shares with a nostalgic smile. “The passion of the fans, the thrill of the game—it’s something I’ve carried with me all my life. When I’m in the ring, those red and white trunks remind me of where I came from and what I’m fighting for.”

Gavin’s athletic prowess was evident from a young age, and his journey into judo began as a teenager. His exceptional skills quickly set him apart, earning him a place on Britain’s Olympic squad. Judo taught him discipline, precision, and the art of using an opponent’s strength against them—skills that would later become integral to his wrestling career.

“I started judo when I was about 15,” Gavin recalls. “It was an escape, a way to channel my energy and focus on something I loved. The discipline and technique I learned in judo have been invaluable in wrestling.”

Transitioning from Olympic judo to professional wrestling Gavin Owen brought with him a distinct set of skills and a fresh approach to the ring. His background in judo provided a solid foundation, but he also sought to diversify his technique by training in kickboxing and kung fu, ensuring his style remained both dynamic and engaging.

“Wrestling was a different kind of challenge,” Gavin explains. “But the fundamentals of judo—balance, leverage, and technique—have helped me adapt and grow in this new environment. I’ve learned to blend those skills with striking techniques to create a style that’s both technical and entertaining.”

With a career marked by technical mastery and a strong work ethic, Gavin Owen has set his sights on the pinnacle of King George VI Wrestling Club—the Heavyweight Championship. His goal is not just to win but to honour his roots and the values he holds dear.

“I’m driven by the desire to be the best,” Gavin declares with determination. “The Heavyweight Championship represents the culmination of everything I’ve worked for. It’s a way to prove that hard work and dedication can take you from the streets of North London to the top of the wrestling world.”

As Gavin Owen continues to make his mark in the wrestling world, his journey remains a source of inspiration. His blend of judo excellence, football passion, and unwavering commitment to his craft embodies the spirit of King George VI Wrestling Club. With each match, Gavin not only strives for victory but also carries the legacy of his North London roots and the dreams of a young football fan who became a wrestling juggernaut.

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America’s New Star

Fans everywhere are beginning to it up and take notice of the businesslike way American hotshot William Payable goes about the everyday chores of his chosen profession.

A comparative newcomer to these shores, he has already put by a wealth of moves and holds that would do proud to many a seasoned campaigner.

After leaving the army, where he served in an airborne company, he attended community college before qualifying as a Tax Clerk. A keen ‘gridiron’ man since his early teens, he soon found himself meeting a number of amateur wrestlers in his home state of California.

He took to the mat game with great ease and from there it was the short step to turning professional and after his first few matches, it was obvious that he would make the grade.

Most of his spare time away from the ring is spent in the gym and he still undertakes some tax assistant duties on a freelance basis.

Another of his ambitions is to be part of a successful Tag-Team. He has admired many of the North American stars in British halls during his time here and is eager to forge a prosperous team in the near future.


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Letter of the Month

(Note from the Editor, what follows is an open letter written by Emmett Askey with an envelope full of money)

To the Esteemed Readers of Ringside Magazine

Greetings from the pinnacle of sophistication and grandeur,

I am Emmett Askey, though you may already know me by my illustrious moniker: "The Little General." It is with great delight—and a touch of disdain—that I take this opportunity to introduce myself and my exceptional charges to the discerning fans of British wrestling. Allow me to paint a picture of unparalleled excellence and superiority, for this is an introduction to a realm that is quite simply beyond the reach of your ordinary wrestling enthusiasts.

First, Let Us Speak of Me:- I stand before you as the epitome of wealth, class, and refined taste. Born into an echelon of society so exalted that it could be considered a privilege to be in my presence, I have carried the mantle of superiority with a grace that your common folk can scarcely comprehend. My attire—tailored suits of the finest fabric, custom-made accessories, and a gold-tipped cane that speaks of generations of grandeur—reflects a level of opulence and distinction that is nothing short of divine.

And Now, The Black Country Boys:- The Black Country Boys—Johnny Doyle and Ricky "Gallagher. A pair of miscreants so audacious, so brazen, that they make even the most hardened of competitors quake in their boots. Allow me to elucidate why they are, without a shadow of a doubt, the most formidable tag team ever to grace a wrestling ring.

Johnny Doyle is the embodiment of technical prowess and raw power, Doyle possesses a mat wrestling acumen that would leave the most skilled grapplers awestruck. His ability to dissect opponents with methodical precision is matched only by his propensity for delivering a punishing blow when least expected. A true maestro of the art of wrestling, Doyle’s every movement is calculated to perfection, executed with a strength and finesse that is both mesmerizing and overwhelming.

: In stark contrast to Doyle’s technical elegance, Gallagher embodies a brutish, no-nonsense style that is as devastating as it is effective. His raw power and brawling techniques render his opponents helpless before him. Gallagher’s resilience and aggression make him an unstoppable force—a human juggernaut whose very presence is enough to instill fear and trepidation in the hearts of adversaries.

Together, We Reign Supreme:

As a unit, The Black Country Boys are a paragon of wrestling excellence, their combined talents creating a synergy that is simply unparalleled. Whether it’s Doyle’s meticulous control or Gallagher’s overwhelming power, their performances are nothing short of spellbinding. Their every match is a spectacle of superiority and dominance, a display of wrestling artistry that leaves all others in the dust.

To the devoted fans of British wrestling, it is clear that The Black Country Boys are not merely participants in this sport—they are its unrivaled masters. And as for me, Emmett Askey, I stand as their impeccable guide, ensuring that their path to greatness is as clear and unobstructed as their ascension to the pinnacle of wrestling glory.

So, dear readers, prepare yourselves for a new era of wrestling excellence. Embrace the spectacle, revel in the superiority, and, above all, acknowledge the truth: The Black Country Boys and their illustrious manager are a force of such magnitude that they will redefine the very essence of wrestling greatness.

Yours in unparalleled grandeur,

Emmett Askey
The Little General
Manager of The Black Country Boys


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Classifieds

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Johnny Fresno
Metallica Panther III
Gavin Owens

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