REUNION AUGUST 8TH APPROACHES

16/07/2010

We are just 23 days away from the fabulous 19th British Wrestlers Reunion and counting.

Invitations are being printed by Committee member :Jo Huckle as we speak, although everyone and their families are welcome with or without one.

The stereo has been replaced, speakers made louder and larger, microphones changed for radio mikes, a platform is being built for us vertically challenged olduns, food being organised, raffles prizes being purchased.

This years Honourees will include World of Sport stars such as : Lennie Hurst, Ray Fury, Tom Tyrone, 'Judo' Pete Roberts, Spencer Churchill, Tony Cassio, Karl Heinz, Vince Randell, John 'Killer' Kowalski, Jimmy Sullivan, Tony Bates, Ricky Knight, 'Hurricane' Keith Haward, Lloyd Ryan and Dave Gentle, and for the younger generation : James Mason, Jonny Storm, Jody Fleisch, posthumous award to Andre Baker, Dropkixx Wrestling Academy that has taught so many of todays stars, Promoter and LDN supremo : Sanjay Bagga for his input to modern wrestling, plus many more surprise names.

Visits are promised form the living legends : Jon Cortez and Al Miquet, Bob Kirkwood, Klondyke Kate, Bobby Barnes, Banger Walsh, Rik Sands, The French Stars who honoured us in 2009, as shown above, plus International Legend : Gil Cesca plus a veritable feast of household names spanning the last 50 years of grappling. David De Ville, Hakan, Richard Parliament, Danny Garnell, Martin Stone, Leroy Kincade, Justin Starr, Darren Burridge, Ashley Reed, Rocker Richards, Justin Richards, plus many more of the young brigade of mat men will be there to represent the current scene.

All the usual culprits will be in attendance, such as : Mick McManus, Johnny Kidd, 'Romany' Riley, Billy Barber, Barry Cooper, Karl Heinz, Bob Anthony, Brian Maxine, Steve Veidor, Johnnie Kincaid, Mel Stuart, Alan Kitto, The Viking, Dave Bond,Hugh Mungous, John Hurley, Wayne Bridges, Johnny Saint, John Hall, Tony Kelly, Steve Fury, Paul Lincoln, Joe D'Orazio, Alan Sargeant, Steve Grey, Mal Sanders, Colin Joynson, Rex Strong, Prince Kumali, Roy St. Clair, deaf n dumb star :Harry Kendall, Ian Muir, Lee Bronson, to name but a few.

So get out your cameras,memorabilia, practice your best yarns and tales, ear mark the diary for the greatest meeting of legends in U.K. history, and head on down to The Bridges Public House and gardens in South Darenth,for the warmest welcome ever from former Heavyweight Champion of the World : Wayne Bridges and his lovely other half and former Miss Great Britain ladies bodybuilding Champion : Sarah Bridges open from 11.00 a.m. till late. Nearest station is Farningham East and walk straight down the road, looking for cauliflower ears and broken noses, to rub shoulders with around 400 wrestlers families, fans and devotees of our beloved sport.

Free entry, Free food, Free hospitality, See you there grapple fans !!

Johnnie and Annie Riley at Buckingham Palace

14/07/2010

(Annie Riley, Dame Vera Lynn and Johnnie Riley)

(H.R.H. Princess Anne, Annie Riley, Le'arna Ashleigh,Rick Wakeman, Dame Judi Dench )

Basil 'Romany' Riley must be very proud of his Son and fellow heavyweight wrestling star : Johnnie Riley for marrying such a talented and beautiful Lady as Annie Riley, because last week they were invited to tea in the gardens of Buckingham Palace in the company of Her Royal Highness Princess Anne.

Annie who has been a much sought after singer for many years, and is extremely well known in her native Ashford circles, even winning a talent audition with Richard Branson some years ago, has always been a devoted Mother and wife turning down the chance to travel the world aboard luxury cruise liners and even the chance of an L.P. contract.

Some while ago however she formed a Professional relationship with friend and singer : Le'arna Ashleigh sharing a love for forties swing music, calling themselves 'The Swingtime Sweethearts . Since then the duo have have toured the U.K. fronting the Glenn Miller Orchestra and appearing on 'Britains Got Talent' in 2009. Their last C.D. sold thousands of copies, enticing audiences and fans from all over the globe.

One of Annie's personal heroines has always been the Goddess of WW2 music : Dame Vera Lynn and she featured the classic 'We'll meet again on that L.P. Last year, Dame Vera got together with the Sweethearts and they have since recorded the poignant 'Not Forgotten' which is dedicated to the soldiers and troops fighting for their Country in Afghanistan and similar war spots.

Fellow celebrities joined the songstresses at the Palace included Dame Judi Dench, Rick Wakeman, Esther Rantzen, and of course the ever youthful 92 year old Dame Vera Lynn . Annie and Learna then gave a scinilating performance for the eager illustrious audience.

(The Swingtime Sweethearts in action)

(Le'arna Ashleigh, Esther Rantzen, Annie Riley)

Annie says:-

Our single with Dame Vera Lynn, is on her brand new album 'UNFORGETTABLE' out now!!! All proceeds are to help children with Cerebral Palsy, and the Ex-Service Disabled & currently serving wounded xxx Go to video page and listen to the record

Wayne Bridges and Jon Ritchie on BBC 'One Show'

08/07/2010

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National BBC presenter, writer and entrepreneur: Gyles Brandreth will present a short documentary on the demise of British Wrestling to be shown next Monday : the 12th July at 7.00 p.m. on BBC's 'One Show'.

The item will feature an interview with former heavyweight Champion : Wayne Bridges, Current British Champion and Dropkixx owner : Jon Ritchie, and a small contribution from former Champion Frank Rimer, plus Sarah Bridges and Sanjay Bagga, owner of LDN Promotions.

It is a light hearted look into the world of British wrestling and we all hope that the media coverage will bring a few old faces out of the woodwork, plus raise the interest in what was a National pastime.

Andre Baker Funeral details

10/06/2010

The funeral for Andre Baker will take place at 15.20 on June 25th at The Crematorium, Charing, near Ashford Kent. This crematorium is on the right hand side of the A20 as you approach Ashford.

Former weightlifting Champion and World of Sport wrestler Andre who sadly took his own life on 16th May, will be remembered as the innovator of modern wrestling styles, as Founder of the Hammerlock wrestling school. His many Promotions in the Kent area featured many American stars and his entourage included World of Sport star : John Hall, LDN Promotions M.C. Steve Lytton, Heavyweight Champion :Jon Ritchie, International superstar : Doug Williams, WWE star: Katie Lea Burchill, formerly known as Nikita, WWE star : Paul Burchill, World Champion : Gary Steele , wrestling sensation and now teacher : Justin Richards, heavyweight star : Danny Garnell , Dave Stewart a.k.a. Tank, Adam 'Muscles' Mansfield, Paul Vault, John Ryan, Alex Shane, Johnny Moss, plus many more.

RAY FURY FOR THE 2010 REUNION

25/05/2010

Legendary grappler and shoot wrestler : RAY FURY will fly in to the U.K. from his Turkish home in Kusidasi, this year with his young wife Marina. Ray has been inconsolable since the unexpected death of his beloved former wife : Paula, but life has smiled once again on this veteran of the mat world since meeting his new Lady.

Christened Ronald Wiltshire, Fury was born in Istanbul at the British Embassy to an English diplomat Father and a Greek Mother, therefore is fluent in 3 languages, although he can converse in up to a staggering 15 more. He has spent much of his adult life living in various Greek/Turkish locations such as Crete, Cyprus, Turkey, Greek Islands etc., and became adept at the Graeco Roman style of wrestling from an early age.

Ray was once ranked among the top ten shooters in the world and has tackled such names as Gordienko, Dempsey, Gotch, Murray, Joyce, during his visits to the now defunct snakepit gym in Wigan. Considered by all who worked with him to be a considerate professional wrestler, Fury was not a man to cross, and was lethal if riled into action. His pistol skills were taught to him by the former World shoot Champion and his mentor : Mike Demitre

We all look forward to making him and Marina welcome on August 8th in Kent at the 19th Annual Reunion, where he will be honoured along with Killer Kowalski, Rex Strong, Dropkixx Wrestling Academy, LDN Promotions, plus many more .

IF YOU LIKE WRESTLING,YOU WILL LOVE THIS SHOW

23/05/10

A WORLD PREMIER

GRAPPLING
Book, Music & Lyrics

by Jack Land - Noble

The Lamproom Theatre, Barnsley

Monday June 14^th to Saturday June 19^th at 7.30pm

A hilariously gritty 1970's Northern working-class musical from the award-winning young Barnsley playwright and composer, Jack Land – Noble, 21.

About the Production:
Based upon the glory days of British wrestling and set amidst the heated early-1970’s, through the eyes of a diligent Yorkshire mining town, ‘Grappling’ is the original 'working-class opera’, which fuses elements of kitchen-sink drama, socio-political commentary, earthy humour and physical frolics, all tied by a stirring original musical score.

‘Grappling’ chronicles Jack Harper; a man who knows his place in life; a man who had no other option but to follow the accepted route of working the seam at the local colliery. These men don’t expect change and, in blood, sweat and tears, they struggle through the years.

However, when tragedy strikes, Harper contemplates the life fate has bestowed upon him. Despite having no secure plans for his future, Harper vows to never return underground again. Breaking away and now with his ultimate responsibility being to put bread upon the table, he takes to a succession of jobs, all resulting in disappointment.

Then, whilst training at the local gym, a refuge from the growing hostilities of home, Harper is catapulted into a whole new domain; embarking upon a journey into the vibrant world of professional wrestling; a voyage which not only examines the camaraderie, but also the inherent tensions of the profession as we meet the sundry band of leotard-clad warriors upholding the art of wrestling… the outwardly brusque old school grappler averse to new blood but whose bluster hides a deeper secret, the black dejected thespian, forearm-smashing his way through a week to make ends meet and the lean, keen, hopeless Welsh romantic, searching for a slice of passion whilst enduring six rounds, two falls, two submissions or knockout!

Still, as time marches on, Harper’s newfound career and the trade he left behind, both face a bleak, uncertain future and, whilst optimism is present, the sinister cloud of despair looms over both communities.

Though ultimately a bittersweet tragedy, ‘Grappling’ is, without doubt, a unique theatrical celebration.

Who’s Up For a Bout of Grappling?

WARNING: Contains strong language.

Additional Notes:

Jack Land, A.K.A. Karl Von Kramer, is the grandfather of the production’s creator and was a professional wrestler for over thirty years, both nationally and internationally. He also partnered Brian Glover as ‘The Toffs’; a successful tag-team on the wrestling circuit during the early 1960’s. ‘Grappling’ uses his wealth of experiences in the sport to create this distinctive dramatic concept. More can be read about Jack’s sporting career in the book, ‘Barnsley Sporting Heroes’, by Annie Storey.

The production also features stars of screen Peter Foster (Coronation Street / Shameless) and Reece Andrews (A Touch of Frost / Diamond Geezer) alongside a host of Lamproom Theatre favourites in what is, arguably, Barnsley’s theatrical event of the year.

BRIAN DIXON CELEBRATES 40 YEARS AS U.K. LEADING PROMOTER

24/05/2010

Legendary Northern Promoter : BRIAN DIXON celebrates 40 years as U.K.'s leading grappling entrepreneur this week, and as a tribute to the great man, we are mustering all old time and new school wrestlers to come along on Friday this week the 28th to the Fairfield Halls Croydon, and honour his wonderful career with a parade in the ring during the show.

Brian who is husband to the First lady of wrestling: MITZI MUELLER, hails from Birkenhead, where his Fountain Street H.Q. is central to his Operation. he started in the late sixties, runnnig a fan club for his favourite wrestlers, but soon graduated to main stream promoting, where he became second largest promoter to Joint Promotions.

His All Star outfit has played host to the top wrestlers from all over the world, and he has had TV contracts for as long as he can remember. ROLLERBALL ROCCO, WAYNE BRIDGES, KENDO NAGASAKI, are just three of the names that have worked with Brian, who is affectionately known in the Business as 'Tricky Dicky'.

We hope to see as many of the faces as possible this coming Friday.

ANDRE BAKER DEAD AT 45

18/05/2010

Andre_Baker2.jpg Andre Baker image by TheWho87EWR

We are deeply saddened to report the recent death of Heavyweight star : ANDRE BAKER , who passed away on the 16th at the premature age of just 45. Unconfirmed reports suggested in many tabloids say that Andre committed suicide, but these have no concrete foundation.

Andre who worked for a short time at Dale Martins, was the mastermind behind the immensely successful Hammerlock Wrestling School and Promotions, giving career starts to names such as DOUG WILLIAMS, TANK, MUSCLES MANSFIELD, MIKE MENDOZA, NIKITA a.k.a. WWE STAR :KATIE LEA, GARY STEELE , STEVE LYTTON, DEAN AYASS,and JON RITCHIE plus many more

His powerful and uncomprimising style of wrestling was a huge hit with fans and he ran his gym similarly, teaching the traditional skills along with modern concepts, in a no nosense approach.

As a Promoter, Hammerlock demonstrated an innovative style bringing many American stars such as Earthquake to our shores. His wry humour was legendary,and his enigmatic smile would bedazzle most folks who called themselves his friend.

The wrestling world is worse for the passing of this man and we offer sincerest sympathies to his family in this time of sadness. His name will now join the ranks of wrestlers in the dressing room in the sky, where he will live on forever.

Here is a link to the tribute from Dean Ayass as printed in the Sun newspaper.

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/wrestling/2980704/A-tribute-to-Andre-Baker-who-has-died-aged-45.html

Legendary Boxer -GEORGE COOPER laid to rest

28th April 2010

(photo of Sir Henry Cooper CBE with his twin brother George's coffin,taken by Frank Rimer with the Cooper family's kind permission)

The great boxer that was GEORGE (JIM) COOPER was laid to rest today in a truly beautiful and moving celebration of his life, in the tranquil and peaceful setting of the St. Peter and St. Paul churchyard near his Farningham home, surrounded by his wonderful loving family and devoted twin brother : SIR HENRY COOPER CBE . along with older brother Bernard Cooper.

Boxing greats such as MARK ROWE, GARY MASON, DICK RICHARDSON, DAVE CHARNLEY, FRANK BRUNO, BARRY MCQUIGAN, were amongst hundreds of mourners packed into the village church, all wishing to pay homage to the immensely popular local hero described during the ceremony as 'a gentle giant among men, with utmost humour, generosity to fellow man,sporting legend and ultimate family man'

George had been a friend and neighbour to the British Wrestlers Reunion for many years, attending as many functions as possible, and his late Father in Law : Reg Reynolds for whom the brothers boxed and worked at the Yorkshire Grey in Eltham had trained in the early sixties with Frank Rimer and Wayne Bridges, where they all first met. The Reunion was represented today by Wayne and Sarah Bridges accompanied by Frank Rimer.

The one and a half hour service service was both poignant yet humorous, just as 'gentle' George would have wanted, much to the delight of the congregation.

George had been an integral part of Farningham life since moving there in the sixties after his marriage to his devoted wife Barbara. They had four children and spent years fund raising and being involved various charities, particularly the Lifeboat charity. He used his many boxing contacts to stage events for this purpose and his greatest advocate was our 'Enery'.

His greatest passion was of course his family to which he was devoted and they were as close knit as any unit can be. Many holidays were enjoyed caravanning together and George loved nothing better than a round of golf or listening to his favourite opera arias.His humour was as legendary as his famous name,bringing happiness and laughter to all who knew him.

Henry and George had a lifetime habit of doing the thumbs up to show their loved ones that they were o.k while boxing, and in the dying moments of George's life when he was ravaged by the terrible debilitating disease known as PNP, he could move nothing nor make any contact with the world, yet could still hear voices. As he lay comatose minutes from death, Barbara whispered to him 'George I love you, do you love me still ?' to which he simply raised a thumb, before passing away.

In this lifetime, we are priviliged to meet and know just a handful of really special people and GEORGE COOPER was such a man who will be sadly missed by all whose lives he touched.

One of the many tributes to this great athlete from the Daily Telegraph

George Cooper

George Cooper, who died on April 11 aged 75, was the identical twin of the nation's best-loved heavyweight boxer Henry Cooper and shared the highs and lows of his brother's long career in the ring.

Photo: PHOTOSHOT

Although his own boxing career never progressed beyond domestic level, George subsequently took on a valuable backroom role as Henry went on to win the British, European and Commonwealth heavyweight crowns.

Along with Henry's long-time manager Jim "the Bishop" Wicks, George was in the corner for all his brother's most notable fights, including his gallant but unsuccessful world title challenge against Muhammad Ali at Highbury on May 21 1966. He was also there for Henry's final fight, against Joe Bugner at Wembley on March 16 1971, when the controversial decision by the referee, Harry Gibbs, to award Bugner victory by a quarter of a point led to Henry Cooper's retirement.

The Cooper twins – Henry was the elder by 20 minutes – were born on May 3 1934 in Westminster. Both boys ("right little ruffians", as Henry later recalled) inherited their father's love of boxing and first discovered their prowess in the school playground, where they invariably stood up for one another.

"George and me were always very close," Henry declared in his autobiography, published in 1972. "The only time we parted was when I got married. Even then, with Dad retired and him and Mum going to live at Margate, George came to live (with me) at Wembley until he was married.

"We went to school together, we went boxing together, we were together in the Army. We look alike, we think alike, in temperament we're similar and often we catch ourselves repeating each other's remarks. Throughout our boxing lives I would go on first so that I wouldn't be worrying over George's fight when I got into the ring."

The twins were introduced to Bellingham amateur boxing club by a neighbour. They lost their first four fights as amateurs, but Henry would go on to win the ABA light-heavyweight crown at 18 and subsequently compete for Britain at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, by which time the brothers were boxing for Eltham.

To avoid confusion with another boxer called George Cooper, George fought under the name of Jim. Despite being a heavier puncher than his brother, he suffered badly from cut eyes and at the age of 16 was fortunate to survive a bout of rheumatic fever which sidelined him for a year. Prior to turning professional he suffered a broken thumb and – according to Henry – never punched so hard again.

The Cooper twins turned professional in a blaze of publicity. After a round's sparring on the BBC's Sportsview programme, they emerged from the ring to sit down and sign a contract before the watching millions.

They made their debuts at the Harringay arena in London on September 14 1954 – Henry stopping Harry Painter in the opening round, and George overcoming the future European heavyweight champion Dick Richardson on points.

But while Henry went on to become one of the most successful British boxers of all time, George remained prone to cuts, eventually retiring in November 1964. He had won 16 fights and lost 14, with one drawn. Thereafter he fulfilled the role of his brother's trainer and confidant.

A nice picture of George and Henry taking tea

Jack Taylor dies

06/04/2010

The world of wrestling will tonight be mourning the passing of a true legend : Jack Taylor aged 83 years young, having battled bravely against a long illness. We shall be posting a more comprehensive write up tomorrow.

Article courtesy of Wrestling Heritage site.

Wednesday April 7, 2010

The Passing of a Wrestling Legend

With great sadness Wrestling Heritage report news from Mick Collins of the passing on Monday 5th April of Jack Taylor following a long illness.

To many fans and wrestlers Jack Taylor was a true wrestling legend, whilst those who confined their support to the tv screens or Joint Promotion halls the man remained something of an unknown quantity. Jack Taylor was one of the most prominent of the independent promoters of the sixties and seventies, and he continued promoting until the beginning of the twenty first century. British and European welterweight champion of the independent halls for many years it was as a promoter that Jack Taylor made his greatest mark, creating many of the names that can be read about elsewhere on this site.

It’s easy to fall into the habit of using all the usual adjectives to describe another old pro. The fact remains that words like tough, tenacious, cunning and skilful fit Jack Taylor just as much as his local rivals Jack Dempsey, Fred Wolley, Tommy Mann and Mel Riss, though Lancastrian Taylor has spent most of his adult life living in Leicestershire.

Although less well known than many of his peers it would be totally wrong to think that this quiet man was any less significant in the history of wrestling than any of those more famous names. Indeed, Jack Taylor must rank as one of the most influential post war wrestlers.

It was reassuring to see Taylor’s influence acknowledged by Pat Roach in his autobiography, “If.” Pat was always quick to point out that his entry into the paid ranks, and all his subsequent successes, would have been very unlikely without the encouragement and knowledge of Jack Taylor. Not unlike a modern soccer scout Taylor would travel around the country seeking out promising young athletes to invite along to his gym in Granby Road, Leicester. In Leicester they would be given a try-out against an established professional before a decision was made whether or not they were worthy of further investment.

Training at the Taylor gym gave a good foundation for a professional career, and for most that meant starting out on the independent circuit. Taylor himself was a well established promoter, using the name International Promotions. He promoted regularly throughout the North and Midlands, with the Granby Hall, Leicester being one of his main venues for over twelve years. His influence spread further afield by matchmaking for other independent promoters. When Birmingham promoter Lew Phillips became disillusioned with boxing he chose to go into the thriving wrestling business. Well aware of his own lack of experience in this field he turned to Jack Taylor to act as a mentor and matchmaker for his new business.

Although a respected and hard-edged businessman Jack Taylor is also respected as a generous and caring individual. In his book, “Two falls, two Submissions or a Knock-out,” Al Marquette recalls the night Jack towed his broken down car from Birmingham to Stockport, in the opposite direction of his own Leicestershire home.

Following the demise of the Mountevans era Jack’s love of the sport never faltered. Despite advancing years he continued to train youngsters, promote charity shows and produce a journal of the golden years, “Wrestling Whirl.” When recalling the golden years of wrestling we ask you to find a place in your memory for one of the quiet men, Jack Taylor.

Jack Taylor died Monday 5th April, 2010, aged 83. We extend our sympathy to all of Jack's family.

Kinkers does it again !!

23/03/2010

Johnny Kincaid: Wrestling's Ring Side Seat

John Kincaid

He writes about his child hood, born and brought up in Battersea “Not Barbados”, how he spent half his child hood in a children’s home. How he was in trouble with the police in his teens and spent time in a detention centre.

He joined a fair ground and travelled with them after leaving his first wife of six months.

Johnny learnt his trade as a wrestler whilst he was boxingin a fair ground boxing booth. he became a lady's man on entering the paid ranks of Professional wrestling,and becoming European Champion 1981-1986.

Enjoy this exciting journey with a ring side seat through the career of Johnny Kincaid you will laugh out loud as his family and friends do when he tells these stories and many more.

Preview

MY MATE JOHNNY KWANGO

I was on my way out of the office when I heard this noise coming from a room at the bottom of the stairs; I peaked in and saw that it was a gym where the wrestlers trained. In the ring at this time was a black guy, he had just put this other guy in a head scissors and caught my eye. “Hello Blackie” he said. Cheeky bastard I thought, he’s as black as the ace of spades. “What’s your name?” he asked. “Johnny Kincaid” I replied. “Johnny Kwango” he said, I know that I thought, nobody else has a face like that and I’ve seen it that many times on television. “Johnny Kincaid, Johnny Kwango the JK’s” he said, a good name for a tag-team.

The year was 1969 the month was May and the date was the 16th when I had my first full time professional bout for Dale and Martin. The place was Yarmouth, against Ivan Penzikoff and Jimmy Ryan, and my partner was the deaf and dumb star Harry Kendell. It was the following month that I had my first tag-match with Johnny Kwango, and guess what we were billed as, the JK’s.

John was like a Father to me, he taught me a lot over the hundred and fifty odd tag matches we had together. In single matches Johnny was always billed as Johnny “Black” Kwango but when the apartheid was introduced they had to drop the black from the billing. I was on a show with him when they first dropped it, and what he said to me was, “Kinky, they have taken my gimmick away, how will the public recognise me now?”

John was always taking the piss out of himself, like the time he told me he was so poor as a kid that his Mum couldn’t afford a pram. So she licked his lips and stuck him to a shop window, or the only draw back in having lips like his was that he couldn’t put his head out of a train window, because he would be battered to death by them.

John wore a bandage around his right knee he used to say that it was the only way he could tell his left from his right, but the fact was he had a diseased bone in his knee and a hole in it which leaked pus. One day whilst we were wrestling it started to bleed and this worried John, I told him we would stop at a hospital on the way home, but he would have none of it. I didn’t know at this time that he had already had two operations on it, I believe his Wife Jean had nagged him that much, that a day or two later he went to the hospital. They told him that they had a new technique and if he didn’t have the operation done there would be a chance of him losing his leg, the outcome was, he had the operation and it worked.

The day I went to see him in hospital the Sister told me that they couldn’t wait to get rid of him. I said “Is he that bad of a patient?” She said “No we just want a rest from laughing, and repairing the stitches that the other patients have burst from doing the same. For the hour or so I was there he had me in tears, so after eating all his grapes I said my good bye’s and told him I will see him in the ring.

Like the American wrestling tapes we see here in England, our British wrestling tapes are sent all over the world, which makes stars like Mick McManus and Jackie Pallo world famous but none more than Johnny Kwango in Africa. I remember when I was the booker for wrestler’s in Zambia and Johnny was amongst the first troop I took out there, on arrival in Lusaka we had the shock of our lives.

The airport was full of people carrying placards and photos of Johnny saying welcome to Zambia Johnny Kwango. Although I had with me some great wrestler’s like Caswell Martin, Monty Swann, The Wild Man of Borneo, we could have filled the halls just with Johnny. All they wanted to see was Johnny use his famous head butt, the chant of butt, butt, butt, went round the hall and when Johnny eventually used the head butt the place erupted. I did another seven trips to Zambia but none compared to the first trip with Kwango.

A year or so after he retired, I asked Johnny if he would like to come to a match with me, just to get him out of the house for a while, he agreed so I took him along to a new promoters show. We were sitting in the dressing room talking to the wrestler’s that remembered seeing Johnny on television when the promoter came in and said “Your Johnny Kwango”. “Who, where, can I get his autograph” that was Johnny, joking all the time. “Would you do me a favour?” the promoter asked. “Don’t ask me to wrestle” Johnny said. “Would you do a personal appearance for me tonight?” he asked. “A personal appearance cost money” said Johnny. “I’ll pay, I’ll pay” said the promoter. Johnny said he was only joking and he would be honoured to do it for him.

My match was first after the interval, my opponent and I were in the ring when the master of ceremonies announced that they had a wrestling personality from the days of World of Sport come to see them and with their permission he would like to call him to the ring. As he announced his name and he entered the hall, every person stood and clapped, by the time he entered the ring I had tears in my eyes. When he came to me and shook my hand, he said, “I think I’ll make a come back John, I never ever received a reception like this when I was wrestling” he was seventy two years of age then. Two years later Johnny passed away, I have never met a man with so much personality or charisma as Johnny Kwango and my guess is, I never will.

The year was 1969 the month was May and the date was the 16th when I had my first full time professional bout for Dale and Martin. The place was Yarmouth, against Ivan Penzikoff and Jimmy Ryan, and my partner was the deaf and dumb star Harry Kendall. It was the following month that I had my first tag-match with Johnny Kwango, and guess what we were billed as, the JK’s.

From International Wrestler to Pubs and Punters

Johnny Kincaid

From a world renowned Professional Wrestler to being a Publican, the transition wasn't that easy for Johnny Kincaid, from travelling the world, to staying in one place 24/7, from seeing different people most everyday, to seeing the same people everyday, from talking and learning about different cultures, to hearing the same old stories day in and day out, but this is the life he chose after the fame and glory.

It starts with wrestling, being in Korea and Hawaii with Billy Whitecloud, meeting Dwain Johnson, better known as the `Rock' for the first time, wrestling in Dubai and being whipped by the chief of police, meeting some very dodgy characters in Beirut

and surviving.

He then goes on to his training and running of pubs, some of his stories are better than Eastenders and Coronation Street put together.

They go from kid's fun days and party nights to hidden sex in the poolroom.

From Disco Dancing to out right punch-ups on the dance floor,

from Rock and Roll to Body Slams, these are just some of the things that went on in some of his pubs. Get rid of the arseholes and keep the character's that was his motto he said.

BE WARNED, THERE IS SOME STRONG LANGUAGE, BUT ONCE YOU START READING, YOU WON'T BE ABLE TO PUT IT DOWN.

Books are priced at just £8.99 and £8. Go to Johnny's site below for details.

JOE QUESICK DEAD

18/03/2010

The Reunion is extremely saddened to announce of that popular grapple star of yesteryear : JOE QUESICK who had been suffering for some considerable time. We do not have many details yet, but Joe's brother will be phoning tonight, and we shall post more on this tradegy later.

Joe was an a staunch supporter of the Reunion and last year was spotted carrying an oxygen mask which alarmed many of his friends and colleagues.

It would seem that the world has lost yet another great legendary wrestling star to the dressing room in the sky.

DENNIS LORD TO JOIN REUNION SITE

19/03/2010

Quite often we are starved of Northern news, being situated in the South, but the Reunion site is for ALL WRESTLING FANS AND STARS, worldwide. Therefore we are very proud to announce that former lightweight sensation : DENNIS LORD will be representing the great Northern hemisphere with contributions to this site to follow. He is particular keen to share his expertise and knowledge of the legendary 'Ringsport' magazine and to keep its memory alive, plus photos and articles of great interest to the true wrestling buff.There may also be a section devoted to our glorious Lady wrestlers who have dominated the british scene for the last 40 years.

We are especially thrilled, as Wigan has always been considered the mecca of all British Wrestling , and the unforgettable 'Snakepit' gym being the breeding ground of the greatest shooters and fighters ever known including the immortal KARL GOTCH .

The list of great grapplers is endless from that training ground, but names such as ;BILLY JOYCE, TOMMY MANN, JACK DEMPSEY, THE BALDWINS, THE BEAUMONTS,THE PYE BROTHERS, THE CADMANS, BILLY ROBINSON,JOHN FOLEY, RAY FURY, are synonomous with all that is great about our sport.

Welcome on board Dennis !!

Rik 'Judo' Sands

05/03/2010

Former pro grapple star : RIK 'JUDO' SANDS has been in touch from his home in Cyprus where he has been domociled for the last seven years, and would love to be in contact with the boys such as Steve Veidor,John Hayles, Killer Kowolski etc.. Email us for contact details.

Szakacs fights back

01/03/2010

The inimitable Hungarian legend that is Peter Szakacs has defied the Doctors and the odds that were stacked against him by leaving Hospital and walknig unaided to the car that was to take him home to his devoted Daughter in Chatham, kent.

Not only that, but he then decided to climb the stairs alone using the special rail that had been installed, to visit the bathroom, despite being advised not to.

As if that wasn't enough, this lion of a man thought that he would telephone Wayne Bridges at the Bridges Pub and have a chat !! He sent his love to all his friends and fans who have sent get well wishes.

No wonder this amazing athlete won the Empire and Commonwealth Games !!

We at the British Wrestlers reunion are really proud of Peter and his wonderful family, and couldn't be more pleased for them all, and if the immortal

Tibor Szakacs is looking down from the great dressing room in the sky, he would agree that his little brother really is the greatest example of courage and tenacity against adversity.

Scot Conway in Thailand

27/02/10

Scot with,Jane and Dot Gorman

World of Sport restaurant

Former leading U.K. Promoter : Scot Conway emigrated to Thailand a few years ago and runs hugely successful Restaurant/Diner with his good Lady of many years standing : Glenda Sponder which is aptly named 'World of Sport' . Scott looks really well as he poses here with English friends of mine : Jane and Dot Gorman who visited Pattaya last week.

Since quitting the wrestling Business, Scot and Glenda have started a young family and have a lovely daughter called Jasmine, and apart from Promoting a Thailand wrestling Tour with Darren Burridge and Charlie Rage a few years ago, have concentrated on the restaurant which caters for multi National tastes including English,German,Mexican and of course Thai. cuisine, and includes several large screens showing different sports and music etc.. The lovely Thai ladies and boys on the staff, are eager to serve and the atmosphere is very friendly, warm and welcoming in an elegant setting, says visitor Jane. Party nights are the stuff of legends and not to be missed.

The girls accompanied by their menfolk Alex and Malcolm, had a wonderful time and re visited several times. If anyone out there is thinking of a holiday and want to look up Scot and Glenda, just email and we shall put you in touch for a wonderful friendly welcome.

Scot and Glenda celebrate Christmas Thai style !

World of Sport team

Scot and baby Jasmine

'Pukka' Darren Burridge and Charlie Rage on Thai wrestling Tour 2003

Firework night

Memories of Belle Vue

26/02/2010

Jackie McCann's memories of the great stadium

courtesy of Jackie McCann and Dennis Lord

I was fourteen years old when I first went with friends to the wrestling at Belle Vue. It was the start of a love affair with the sport that was to last for many years and holds fond memories until this day

Although the Kings Hall venue that is still remembered was first used for wrestling in 1921, the sport had been introduced to Belle Vue in 1910.
The outbreak of war curtailed wrestling in all but the biggest venues. Belle Vue was one of those few places that remained open for the wrestling business

In November, 1981, regular fans were well prepared for the announcement that seventy years after wrestling had been introduced to Belle Vue the final show would take place on Saturday

5th December.

26/02/10

Dropkixx Wrestling In Westminster!

Master Of Ceremonies: Tebraiz Shahzad
Doors Open: 7:30 P.M.
Show Starts: 8:00 P.M.
Ticket Price: £7.00

[ THE MATCHES ]

No Holds Barred Match
IWC Heavyweight Championship
Guest Referee: "The People's Commissioner" Lucas Jackson

IWC Heavyweight Champion
The Grim Reaper
(The deepest, darkest corner of your worst nightmare)
vs.
Sgt. Kevin Anthony
(Eltham, South London)

When looking for an opponent for The Grim Reaper to face for the first show of 2010 we looked no further than Sgt. Kevin Anthony. Kevin Anthony is one of the few wrestlers on the Dropkixx roster that can withstand The Grim Reaper’s offence and also fight back against him for a decent part of the match.
As was expected there was no fancy reversals or holds in the match, both wrestlers headed into the match prepared for a fight and that’s what the Ilford crowd saw. However, as the match spilled to the outside the referee was unable to bring the wrestlers back into the ring, so the match was declared a draw.
Seeing that the two wrestlers still wanted to continue the fight "The People’s Commissioner" Lucas Jackson announced that they would continue, but not at Ilford as he then announced that they would face each other at Westminster in a No Holds Barred match.
With their first match ending in utter chaos their No Holds Barred match will be yet another brutal encounter, but will Sgt. Kevin Anthony be able to defeat the seemingly unbeatable Grim Reaper, or will the Reaper once again prove why he is the IWC Heavyweight champion?

Grudge Match
"The World’s Most Pissed Off Man" Dan Eels
(New Cross, South London)
vs.
"The Jamaican Sensation" Cell
(Kingston, Jamaica)

At our second event in Lenham, Kent in September a match was announced between good friends Dan Eels and Cell. On paper the match seemed like it would be very good, as the styles of the two wrestlers complimented each other well, Dan Eels with his mainly technical wrestling and Cell with his unorthodox mix of technical, high impact and ariel styles.
However as soon as the bell rung a everyone in the venue that night saw a very different side of Dan Eels as he unleashed a brutal attack on Cell. Showing no regard for his opponents wellbeing Eels took every opportunity to attack Cell, be it on the mat or standing with various kicks, punches, elbows, knees and anything else that would do damage to his opponent. Cell eventually won the match, showcasing his incredible agility securing the three count with a standing Shooting Star Press.
These two former friends turned enemies have not had any interaction with each other since their last match in Lenham, but you can be sure that their match in Westminster will be just as good as the first!

#1 Contenders Tournament
The show will also feature a one night only knock-out tournament to determine a number one contender for The Grim Reaper’s IWC Heavyweight championship.
The tournament will feature two young up and coming heavyweights Callum "Bullseye" Chuck & "Honest" Ernest Sterling, the current IWC Light-Heavyweight champion "Lazer" Lagden who is determine to prove himself as a fighting champion by also hopefully challenging for the IWC Heavyweight championship and lastly it will also feature the man that is favourite to win the tournament, the former two time LDN British Heavyweight champion Jon "The Don" Ritchie.

Royal Scotsmen Challenge
Gary Docherty vs. T.B.A.

(CARD SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

Jonny Storm and Ricky Knight in Takeley

26/02/2010

HEW LIVING ON A PRAYER 6 - The 6th Anniversary

Date:	Saturday, March 13, 2010
Time:	6:30pm - 10:30pm
Location:	Takeley Silver Jubilee Hall

Description

At the last show New Year Showdown who would have thought of all people The Devil's Playboys would save Commissioner Cox from London Inc, that being said you wanted the match and on HEW's 6th Birthday - here it is!

Main Event:
The Devil's Playboys (HEW Champion Brett Meadows, Sam Knee and the HEW Womens Champion Britani Knight) Vs. London Inc (Jet Logan, DKJ and Amazon

for the first time ever Rowdy Ricky Knight will take on the newly crowned WAW European Champion The Pure Athlete Aron Frost

with the undefeated winning streak in HEW by the Underdog Alex Young everyone wonders when the popular young star will lose a match, he has been challenged by somebody who has a pretty good track record in the wrestling business and on March 13th at Living On A Prayer 6 The Underdog Alex young will put his undefeated in HEW streak on the line against The Wonderkid Jonny Storm!

The Catalyst Scott Fusion is not happy he's in fact down right pissed off because of the HEW fans, to get back at them he has challenged there King Of The Raffle: Danny Blaze. Fusion feels if he beats the delicious one it's a step further to what he has never been able to achieve HEW championship gold, however is Fusion looking past Danny Blaze's unusual antics on March 13th at HEW Living On A Prayer 6 we will find out.

For nearly a year Zak Zodiac and Judas have been going back and forth in feud that can only be described as explosive, in May last year Judas beat Zodiac in the very first encounter then in July Zodiac defeated the monster by count out, then in August Zak distracted the monster Judas enough for him to be counted out against The Underdog Alex Young and then Judas dragged The Masked High Flyer from the ring to the back in his match against Brett Meadows for him to be counted out and to lose his chance to become the HEW Champion. This will be the final Match between the two in HEW, one will win, one will lose and it happens on March 13th at Living On A Prayer 6.

For the Final Time - Zak Zodiac vs. Judas.

doors open at 6.30pm, show starts at 7.30pm. tickets £10 adult, £8 children, £30 family of 4, to book call 07790200490

IPW-U.K. in Sittingbourne

26/02/2010

IPW:UK Sittingbourne Spectacular 2010

BIG SHOW feat: Mark Haskins vs. Pac, Dave Mastiff & More

Type:

Sports - Sporting Event

Date:	Sunday, April 4, 2010
Time:	5:00pm - 8:00pm
Location:	Wyvern Hall, Sittingbourne, Kent

Description

We have a huge show lined up Bank Holiday Sunday April 4th and oncemore it could well prove to be the strongest card top to bottom we've ever put together!

The very best wrestling anywhere in this country... don't miss out!

So far announced:

Dream match:
- ‘The Man Gravity Forgot’ Pac vs. ‘The Star Attraction’ Mark Haskins

Plus BRAND NEW UNDISPUTED BRITISH HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION: 'The Human Hate Machine' Dave Mastiff & much more!

DONT MISS THE CANT MISS SHOW OF THE YEAR AND GET YOUR TICKETS FROM: http://www.ipwuk.com/sittingbourne/tickets.php

Jolly Beggar Club Coventry

26/02/2010

TXW & AMP Entertainment proudly present...
The Award Winning Triple X Wrestling (UKFF Best British Promotion Of 2009) Second Annual Third Anniversary Show II

Can you believe it? All these years ago from a tiny seed and a twice cancelled show has brought you mayhem, unearthed new stars, legendary matches and the 2009 UKFF Promotion of the Year.

And now it's our birthday!

And as a gift to you, we plan to bring you a badass night of the same stuff that made YOU call us the best in the land.

How about a title match??

TXW HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
Adam Shame (c) vs. Devilman

After Jon Ryan failing to answer our calls, we are giving the number one contendership to Devilman. Devilman has fought and bled for our fans and could definately argue his claim to being Mr Triple X. He was also one of them men Adam Shame screwed over to win the Triple X Wrestling championship. Devil finally gets his one on one shot with 'The Paisley Wrecking Machine' and current champion on Sunday 4th April.

More matches being on the verge of signing but expect to see all your Triple X favourites including Jimmy Havoc, Britain's Most Wanted and Zack Sabre Jr.

And that's not all!

We've had our scouts out and in coming months are going back to what we did from the very start - find the stars of tomorrow and bring you the best unknown talent in the UK. And we are certain you will be as impressed as we are with what you see!

Sunday 4th April
6:00pm doors
6:30pm first bell
Jolly Beggar Club,
Coventry,
CV1 3JZ
£7 entry on the door or £5 advance tickets with purchase of ticket to AMP Wrestli

SZAKACS LATEST

24/02/10

At last there is good news on the legendary and National favourite wrestler : Peter Szakacs, following the terrible stroke that cut him down before Christmas.

Thanks to the wonderful Hospital nursing care, he is now able to stand upright but only if he is supported, and providing his improvement continues at this speed, should be allowed home in approximately two weeks.

Fortunately, Peter is blessed with a very loving Daughter who is preparing her home in Chatham for his arrival, where she will attend to his needs 24/7, as he still requires constant care.

The Brixton home that has held so many happy memories for the Champion grappler before his wife's death,will have to be sold along with the Daughters house and they intend to then invest in a large bungalow where Peter can enjoy a happy retirement in the Company of the family that he adores.

Peter has been receiving best wishes from an army of friends and fans alike and has also been told of our posts on this site. He wishes to extend his love and thanks to you all.

Historian : Ray Plunkett has prepared a comprehensive record of all Peters bouts (as only Ray can !) including the results along with some copy posters, which will occupy the great man while recovering.

Our best wishes and hopes for the future are extended to Peter and our gratitude and love offered to his wonderful family for their care.

of this truly magnificent wrestler

WAW wrestling Tour

24/02/10

Veteran grappler and World of Sport star : 'Rowdy' Ricky Knight and his beautiful wife and Ladies wrestling legend : 'Sweet' Saraya Knight present details of the following tour. All their shows are packed with excitement and fun for all the family so watch out for a grapplefest in your area.

WAW Wrestling are on tour
19th Dereham memorial hall
20th Watton queens hall
21st Nth Walsham community centre
27th March/Cambs Neals Wade sports centre
ticketline and info 01603-506333
or pm me!!

Wrestling in Morley

24/02/10

Dynamic Pro Wrestling is proud to be able to announce the first details for our upcoming celebration!!

Join Dynamic Pro Wrestling on March 13th 2010 as we celebrate our 2 Year Anniversary!

A lot has happened over the past 2 years in Dynamic Pro Wrestling and we have seen many faces grace the ring to entertain the crowds and come March 13th 2010 we are changing venue to bring you our biggest show yet!

Those of you that were at our last show, "The 12 Fights of Christmas" Will have already heard the following announcements and I'm sure you will be as excited as we are for the upcoming anniversary. So without further ado lets begin with announcing some things:

Former WWE Tag Team Champion Doug Basham makes his return to Dynamic Pro Wrestling. Doug Basham has taken the decision to retire from professional wrestling in the coming months but wants to take the opportunity to meet his British fans just one more time. After speaking with Doug about this, he told us that he enjoyed his visit to Morley, Leeds so much he simply couldn't pass up the chance to return one more time to put on a goodbye performance!

Cameron Kraze finally gets to face The Juice, CJ Banks one-on-one for the Dynamic Pro Wrestling British Championship. After beating the team of CJ Banks and Rainz on our last show, Cameron Kraze demanded the chance at "2 Years Old!" After also defeating Fight Club in a handicap match earlier this year, it has quickly been decided by DPW management to grant this request and so on March 13th 2010 Home Town Hero Cameron Kraze will finally face The Juice, CJ Banks one-on-one with the DPW British Championship on the line!

Martin Kirby aims to the retire the Manson Weight Championship FOR GOOD! After defeating Voodoo in a No.1 Contenders match for the Manson Weight Championship, Martin Kirby now goes on to face the Mad Man himself at "2 Years Old!" Kirby has always proclaimed he is nothing but a 110% serious person in the ring and despite some of his actions during matches he maintains this claim and that not only is Mad Man Manson "Stupid" but his title is also "Stupid" If Martin Kirby defeats Mad Man Manson on March13th then the Manson Weight Title will be retired forever, HOWEVER.. If Mad Man Manson is instead victorious, then Martin Kirby will be forced to form a tag team with the Mad Man forever!

Kris Travis is a man with revenge on his mind after General Manager Christopher Brammer not only dispensed with his services but also barred him from the venue on December 5th. However, he didn't heed this and still managed to show up at the venue with steel chair in hand. He took out hired security and then cornered Mr. Brammer. It didn't look good for the General Manager until Scotty Hexx made an appearance and Mr. Brammer made it into a match. However it didn't go the way of the big man with an angry and fired up Kris Travis easily running rings around him and collecting the victory after an attempt by Scotty Hexx to hit Travis with the chair backfired. After the match Travis again cornered Mr. Brammer with the steel chair and, with the crowd baying for Mr. Brammers blood, demanded the chance to fight him. Mr. Brammer agreed to this if he was let go, and once Travis did, Mr. Brammer than added that firstly however.. Travis would need to defeat the Big Dawg Rainz at "2 YEARS OLD!" in a NO HOLDS BARRED match!

Sykes books himself on to the show! Following a devastating attack on Robbie X by Steve Sykes, El Ligero came out to save Robbie from further attacks and what ensued was a match between Sykes and El Ligero so heated that the venue's fire alarms were set off and wouldn't turn off for over 40 minutes! Sykes seems to think that despite his success elsewhere across the country Dynamic Pro Wrestling are purposely not bothering to book him show after show.After Sykes lost the match (blaming this on Robbie X distracting him) he rather angrily announced that at the "2 YEARS OLD!" show that if DPW were not going to book him a match, he would again book himself onto the main show and announced that he will bring friends and that Ligero should bring friends and it will be an all out tag war. We will bring you more details of this as each man names their team.

IPW wrestling this weekend in Kent

18th February 2010

IPW:UK "No Escape 2010" - Wrestling In Sittingbourne, Kent!

A Night Of Fun For All The Family!

Date:	Sunday, February 21, 2010
Time:	5:30pm - 8:30pm
Location:	Swallows Leisure Centre, Sittingbourne, Kent

Description

Live on SUNDAY FEBRUARY 21ST- IPW:UK present an evening of live Pro Wrestling with the best wrestling action anywhere in the UK today!

See live what the rest of the world can only see on TV as IPW American style pro wrestling comes back to SITTINGBOURNE with a great bill of wrestling action for all the family.

See top wrestling superstars from the across the World and the rest of the world face the Best of British in a non-stop explosive spectacular for all the family.

------------------------------------------------------------

And therefore the current card for IPW:UK "NO ESCAPE 2010" is:

UNDISPUTED IPW:UK BRITISH HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
- Leroy Kincaide © vs. ‘The Vigilante’ Johnny Moss

UNDISPUTED BRITISH TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
- The Leaders (Zack Sabre Jnr. & Marty Scurll) (c) vs. Hubba Bubba Lucha (El Ligero & Bubblegum)

SINGLES GRUDGE MATCH
- Danny Garnell vs. Martin Stone

SPECIAL CHALLENGE MATCH
- The Lion Kid vs. Robbie Dynamite

INTERNATIONAL TAG TEAM CHALLENGE
- Up In Smoke (Cheech & Cloudy) vs. S&M (Stixx & Paul Malen)

PLUS - the returning ‘Human Hate Machine’ Dave Mastiff & much more!

TONY 'BANGER' WALSH

20/01/10

Here is some cheery news from our Banger.

Tony Banger Walsh Good news peeps,great result at hospital my cardiologist Dr Singh managed to sort the problem out by using stents rather than the bypass route.Back at home under strict instructions to change my lifestyle.Going to start rehab soon,have lost a stone already.Carol ,my family and the affection of my friends has been my strength

Steve Veidor, Johnny Saint, Roy St Clair and Tony 'banger' Walsh at Reunion.

LEGENDS SPECTACULAR

13/01/10

2010 kicks off a new wrestling season with an almighty bang on January 30th, when the biggest legends in U.K. grappling come together for a spectacular not to be missed in Gloucester.

The legendary Skull Murphy is making a one off appearance since his retirement which makes this show a must watch event.

Invited guest is the one and only former Lightweight Champion of the world and Gloucester resident : JON CORTEZ considered by his peers to be one of the greatest ever living technical exponent of professional wrestling.

Venue GL1 Gloucester Leisure Center

Date Saturday January 30th

Full Line Up

1 Johnny Kidd v Jonny Roses

2 Robbie Brookside v Drew Macdonald

3 Johnny Saint v Matt Jarrett

4 Danny Collins v Skull Murphy

5 Superstar Mal Sanders v James Mason

Doors Open 7pm
Wrestling starts 7.30pm
Tickets Price
Adults £10
Kids £8
Family Ticket £30
Box Office Number 01452396699

CHIC LINTON DIES

10/01/10

(Chic Linton receives a life time achievement award in 2003 from the Dazzler: Joe Cornelius, watched by life long friend Joe D'Orazio, the late Pat Roach, Mitzi Mueller,Brian Dixon and a whole host of friends and colleagues.)

We are deeply saddened to inform you of the death of that great legendary lightweight sensation : CHIC LINTON who passed away last weekend peacefully at the grand old age of 86 from natural causes.

Diminuitive Chic has been an inspiration to all lighter wrestlers who aspired to fame and fortune, but felt that their lack of size was a barrier by ruling the small man classes since the 40's.

Since retiring from wrestling the irrepressible character turned to acting and has appeared in hundreds of TV shows as a valued extra, and also in countless advertisements. He could be spotted on shows from Eastenders to Only fool and horses. This wonderful and immensely popular man was still working at an incredible age of 85.

The whole wrestling world will miss his spirit and quiet sense of humour, but he has left a glorious legacy to the world in the form of his two Sons.

'Banger' Walsh in heart scare

7/01/10

( Mike Tyson and Tony Walsh )

Popular World of Sport wrestling legend : TONY 'BANGER' WALSH has been hospitalised with a mild heart attack, according to a report on Facebook. Apparently, he was taken into care some days ago and is being kept as an in patient for angiogram tests etc..

Tony, who was recently honoured with a life time achievement award for services to wrestling at the last LDN Legends Showdown in November at Cheshunt, has remained active in wrestling circles and is a staunch supporter of the Reunion.

Away from the ring, he has carved out a very successful career as head of Diamond Security, providing bodyguards to eminent figures such as pop stars, fighters and even Princess Anne.His Son is the heavyweight star known as Thunder and Tony spends much of his time chatting with his many fans and friends from the wrestling world, via either Facebook or the forums and guestpage on this site.

He is a regular at the many grappling functions held Nationwide, commuting from either his Warrington home where he lives next Adam Woodyate( Ian Beal on Eastenders) or his summer home in Marbella. Tony also gives after dinner speeches at a variety of meetings and has written a book about the late great Chris Adams which is selling very well.

Everyone at the Wrestlers Reunion wishes this true character of the wrestling world a speedy recovery.

( Bangers Son : Darren, a.k.a. Thunder Adam Woodyate, Tony Walsh )

Mel Stuart blows hot and cold

06/01/10

Legendary wrestler turned actor /fire-eater/stunt man : MEL STUART is seen here blowing a 6 feet plume of fire for a TV show, much to the amazement of Radio Kent top D.J. : Pat MPAT MARSH and actress JOAN HAMMOND .

Mel has enjoyed a celebrated acting career since retiring from wrestling, appearing on Vicar of Dibley, Eastenders, plus many other sitcoms and doing L.P. covers for Iron Maiden , even appearing on the Royal Variety Show

He is currently preparing to take his wife Jan to his winter retreat in Sunny Spain where he will hibernate until the Spring.

REUNION CHRISTMAS CARDS

02/01/10

This Christmas, we posted nearly 200 Reunion Christmas cards to all our regular friends and colleagues. Up to the time of writing only 6 people have confirmed receipt. If you were one of the folks who normally receives cards and invitations from us, and if your card did not arrive, then please accept our sincerest apologies. Wayne and Sarah Bridges have lodged a formal complaint against the Post office, who cannot seem to deliver anything on time any more if at all !!

LEGENDS GATHER FOR CHRISTMAS

28/12/09

THE DIRTY DOZEN !!

Some of the greatest names in Professional wrestling met up for the twelth year running to celebrate the Annual Christmas Reunion dinner at a well known South London restaurant.

From left to right were 'JUDO' PETE ROBERTS, 'BAD BOY' BOBBY BARNES, 'CYANIDE' SID COOPER, JOHNNY WILSON ,'BULLY BOY' IAN MUIR, JOHNNY SAINT, LEE BRONSON, ' PRETTY BOY' MEL STUART, BILL BROMLEY (THE MASKED EMPORER), STEVE GREY, TOM TYRONE, 'SUPERSTAR' MAL SANDERS.

This very popular event is organised by Mal Sanders and Steve Grey by invitation only, and some of the guests travelled hundreds of miles to attend, drink beer ,eat food and tell a few lies.

Whatever it is that they are eating, they all look very well on it !!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

24/12/09

JOE D'ORAZIO, WAYNE BRIDGES, SARAH BRIDGES, JO HUCKLES and myself : FRANK RIMER would like to wish all our dear friends and colleagues from around the world , old and young, the Merriest and Holiest of Christmases and may your new year be the most prosperous ever.

Thank you so much for your loyalty and support to the Reunion which is nearly 20 years old and we sincerely hope that you will all come along next August for our free party day .

Dont forget that you can upload your own wrestling photo albums on our gallery pages and even create your own albums of memories to share with your wrestling friends from the fraternity. The forums are open for debate and the guestbook page encourages direct contact with all our supporters and colleagues.

We are especially keen for the modern wrestlers to use this site as their own for all news and views, photos, dtaes etc..

See you all in 2010

PETER SZAKACS UPDATE

23/12/09

We are thrilled to report that the great Peter Szakacs continues to improve, folowing the terrible stroke that he suffered recently. he had attended Hospital for treatment to a cataract and mercifully suffered the stroke while there. he is paralysed from head to toe and wasnt able to swallow as his neck and throat muscles were seized . Tubes were inserted to enable swallowing and eating, but being the awesome athlete that he is, he has fought back and now can do without tubes. he can also just move one foot.

As you are all aware, Peter lost his beloved wife some time ago, and the trauma he is feeling must be beyond endurance, but fortunately he has the love of his devoted daughter, who is looking after him and will probably sell both their homes to integrate living arrangements and give Peter the care he will need.

In this era of families putting ageing relatives into care homes, it is wonderful to learn of this family closeness in a time of tragedy and illness.

I am sure that every wrestler in Great Britain and indeed the world that has ever had contact with this great wrestling family of Peter and the late Tibor will join the Reunion in wishing him and his family a wonderful Christmas.

On the subject of strokes, that other awesome grappler Barry Douglas continues to improve also and has some normality in his life again. Jon Cortez has regained most of his fitness as proved during his visit to the Reunion from his Gloucestershire home last year,and Tony St. Clair was fit enough to attend Orig Williams funeral, flying from his home in Germany.

It is so sad to think that these men who gave so many years of abusing their bodies in the name of entertainment,have to suffer the indignity of strokes,but surely, this must bear testimony to the strength,fitness and sheer will power of these world class athletes.

13th December 2009

HEW Presents: A Controversial Christmas - Saturday 19th December

Date:	Saturday, December 19, 2009
Time:	6:30pm - 10:30pm
Location:	Takeley Silver Jubilee Hall, Brewers End, Takeley, CM22 6QJ

Description

Main Event was announced in October in which after 2 years of abuse back and forth these two HEW personalities would face off for the final time, the match is no DQ and the loser will leave HEW forever! on December the 19th at the Takeley Silver Jubilee Hall.

NO DQ - LOSER LEAVES HEW: SAM KNEE VS. SWEET SARAYA - SPECIAL GUEST REFEREE - HEW COMMISSIONER MS. COX

The HEW Commissioner Ms Cox has been feeling very generous since it is almost Christmas, and has announced that this show will feature a double main event not only the Loser Leaves HEW match but also The HEW Championship will be on the line!

The 2 Time HEW Champion Brett Meadows will take on and defend the belt against the official number 1 contender for the belt, making his return to HEW at long last....... ZAK ZODIAC!

Special guests : Darren 'Pukka One' Burridge and Steve Lynsky.

11th December 2009

PRO WRESTLING steams back into KENT this Saturday night as International Pro Wrestling UK (www.ipwuk.com) bring their amazing style of wrestling back to the White Oak Leisure Centre in Swanley! See live what the rest of the world can only see on TV and DVD!

» This Saturday see a HUGE BRITISH TITLE MATCH as our 'Hip Hop' star Leroy Kincaide defends against TV sensation, 'Mr. Total Wipeout' Ricky Hype!

» And our main event features a 25 person OVER THE TOP ROPE ROYAL RUMBLE!

- Tickets are available now from the website (www.ipwuk.com) by calling the venue box office (01322 662 188) or just simply by turning up on the night. Adults are £12, kids are £8, and a family of four is £33. Bring a group of 12 or more and receive a big discount of up to 50%. Email Daniel Edler daniel@ipwuk.com for more information as soon as possible.

- For more direction information head over to http://www.swanleywrestling.com right away!

AND IN THE MEANWHILE if you can't make it to Swanley this weekend (and you'll be missing out if you don't!) then IPW:UK have just released three brand new DVD titles for instant shipping! They are:

» EXTREME MEASURES 2009 - From February this year, see the shocking IPW return of 'The Showstealer' Alex Shane, as well as classic bouts between Johnny Moss and Dave Moralez, Leroy Kincaide and Jon Ryan and Mark Haskins and Terry Frazier. PLUS, see TNA Wrestling star Nick 'Brutus Magnus' Aldis in action against Spud!

» R-A-S-S-L-I-N - That's RASSLIN folks! And RASSLIN 2009 features the most brutal match in IPW:UK history, in an attempt to end a near 5 year feud between two people that epitomise arch rivals. We see a "Lighttubes and Thumbtack Kickpads" match between Jon Ryan and Jimmy Havoc!!

» And finally, BRAWL @ THE HALL 2009 - it's time again for the annual November spectacular featuring 3 main events, as the British Tag Titles are defended by The Leaders, the IPW:UK Undisputed Title is defended by Leroy Kincaide and in our headline match, The Invaders (Garnell/Dynamite/Whiplash) come into IPW:UK to take on The Firm (Stone/Samuels/Frazier) in our Brawl @ The Hall 6 Man Elimination match!

Pick up any of these three titles by heading over to the IPW:UK online store right now, at: http://www.ipwuk.com/shop/new_products.php?osCsid=6a3f4011ed222d49528e9f2471ccb596

Peter Szakacs suffers stroke

1/12/09

The Reunion is devastated to learn that legendary veteran grappler , referee turned actor : Peter Szakacs has been cut down by a serious stroke and is Hospitalised this evening. Hungarian born Szakacs brother of the immortal heavyweight star Tibor Szakacs commenced his illustrious career as a Champion welterweight Amateur wrestler, having competed in the Empire games, before emigrating to England after the Hungarian uprising in 1956, where he became a National favourite on T.V. during the golden era. This tough matman spent 40 years in the spotlight before hanging up his boots to become a referee. These days, he can be seen acting in many programmes and films such as 'Snatch'.

Sadly, this great gladiator lost his wife the year before last ,but bravely accepted a life time achievment award from the reunion peers, for his services to wrestling.

The great Tibor tragically died of cancer in 1980.

We all wish Peter a speedy recovery and will keep you posted on the latest news.

Jean O'Sullivan loses Son

1/12/09

U.k.'s favourite wrestling Fan : Jean O'Sullivan known for over 40 years, to wrestlers Countrywide for her devotion to the wrestling Business, has sadly lost her beloved Son : Gary Henderson at the tender age of 51.

Gary, a keen sportsman who once had trials for Charlton and Gillingham, had been bravely suffering from Motor Neurone Disease. The funeral service will be held on the 15th December at Swanscombe.

The thoughts and sympathies of all the boys go out to Jean and her Daughter today.

Rock 'n' Wrestling

1/12/09

PLEX WRESTLING PRESENTS :

An evening of rock music starring Time Machine , coupled with wrestling, and featuring modern legend : James Mason, who will be giving a special training seminar. James is one of the UK.'s leading wrestling exponents,plus having toured with the WWE and TNA in the States. he is considered to be one of the great technical grapplers in the Country.

Sunday December 6th Doors open 5.30 p.m.

Venue : Connaught School Leisure Centre, Tongham Road, Aldershot, GU12 4AS

Booking 01252 344438 Tickets : £20 family of Four. Adults £10, Kids/OAPS £5

NIK BALI PARALYSED

29/11/09

Young up and coming wrestler : NIK BALI who was working on a show for Welsh Promotion known as Celtic Wrestling suffered a sickening injury last weekend , whilst attempting a move known as the Styles clash, an American move made famous by U.S. grappler :A.J. Styles . The desperately unlucky youngster was rushed to Hospital where he has undergone major surgery. At the time of writing, Bali can only move from the neck upwards and his Family and army of friends within the wrestling Business are praying for a miracle recovery. This highly dangerous and unproven move was attempted by his opponent , whereby the legs are pushed downwards,driving the head into the floor. Tonight, A.J.Styles himself has sent a message of suport for an early recovery, but warns against the danger of attempting these moves without proper training.

This terrible accident highlights yet again the needless waste of a young persons life, in the vain attempt to entertain an audience, and once more opens the controversy surrounding modern methods of grappling.

Dearly loved and much respected Legendary World of Sport female wrestler, and star of over 10,000 Professional outings KLONDYKE KATE feels so strongly about this subject, that she was compelled to write an article featured on our article page. Her thoughts are summed up in fear for the safety of legions of wannabe hopefuls, and echoed in dismay by the whole of the more experienced wrestling fraternity.

The thoughts of the whole wrestling Fraternity are tonight with the Family of Nik and we all hope that you will soon recover, being able to live a normal life once again.

( Let us know your views. Go to the Forum page under current wrestling)

The Legends are coming !!!

19th November 2009

Just two days to go before Cheshunt plays host to the biggest gathering of grappling stars this year, for this Seasons 3rd Annual legends Showdown.

Veteran World of Sport Stars such as Johnny Saint, Mal Sanders, Johnny Kidd, Jon Ritchie will work side by side with modern legends such as Yorghos, Danny Garnell, Travis, and the Queens own resident butler from Buckingham Palace : David De Ville.

Myself : Frank Rimer will also be there to host a special Legends Parade , featuring many of the stars from the old days through to the current world of wrestling, and I shall be presenting Life Time Achievements to the Legendary 70's star : Tony 'Banger' Walsh and the inimitable star : Steve Grey. Other expected Legendary guests on the evening will be Johnny Kincaid, Bill Bromley a.k.a. The Masked Emperor, 'Gay One' Vince Randell, Mad Dog Richmond and Derek Williams.

The venue is the prestigious Wolsey Hall, Windmill Street, Cheshunt this Saturday the 21st November . Doors open at 6.00 p.m. and the first Bell is at 7.30 p.m. Whilst nearly sold out, there are limited tickets available on the door at normal prices.

N.B. Calling all wrestlers and officials from both the World of Sport through to the Modern era. You are extended a special Free entry for you and your family, and an invitation to take part in the Legends Parade, which will be filmed for the London Eye and issued for sale as a DVD. Come along and see all your friends and join in the fun !!! Please just introduce yourself at the box-office.

DENNIS MCnAMARA dies

(Dennis McNamara demonstrates his mighty physique in ardous training regime)

19th November 2009

The British Wrestlers Reunion is deeply saddened to learn about the death of amateur wrestling supremo : Dennis McNamara who has passed away aged 79 years. Dennis was the epitime of the perfect wrestler, utterly devoted to his amateur status despite untold offers to join the ranks of the professionals, although he did secretly try the other side, in a bonnet, working as O'Shea, albeight a very brief career. This friendly giant who simultaneously enjoyed life as a serving policeman was almost indestructible on the mats, training at the famous Ashdown club and at his Hendon Police Headquarters. He rose through the ranks to become British and European Champion and wrestled for Great Britain as Captain of the British Team in the Olympics at Tokyo. He pinned the Japanese Champion : Masal Saito who was so ashamed after the verdict that he was unable to return home to his village in Japan. Saito who went on to become an International star in the States and across the world as a Professional, often recounted the story.

McNamara, was respected and liked throughout the wrestling fraternity, spending his whole life devoted to the sport that he loved, and never failing to give his time in helping newcomers to the mat, with friendly unassuming advice and tips.

We trust that his surviving family will accept our deepest condolences and as a mark of our sincerest respect have added Dennis to the great Dressing Room in the Sky where his name will live forever in the annals of wrestling.

Our thanks to amateur historian Alan Best for informing us of this tragedy.

Personal Tribute from Frank Rimer

I first met Dennis in 1960, when I was a young aspiring amateur wrestler at the Sparta Club. We had been entered in the London Championships, and I was pitted against clubmate :Kenny Dawes, who was the greatest amateur of his day in my weight class. My fear was obvious, but this gentle giant Mcnamara who didnt know me from Adam, just sat down beside me and said ' I get butterflies before every bout the same as you, but stand tall, try your best, and if he beats you, shake his hand, that is what a sportsman does !' I did lose in minutes to the awesome Dawes,but the words of McNamara stayed with me throughout my life. He was a truly great inspiration to me and all my club mates.

Tribute from Wayne Bridges

Dennis used to visit the Ashdown Club where I was training in the early sixties, and as we were similar in build, often worked out together, not that I ever won ! Sometimes I would go with him to the Edgeware Road Club, or even Hendon, where he was treated as the God of all wrestling. His best pal of the times was Tony Lock, another great grappler, and I remember when the Amateur Council were choosing the Olympic team, Lock had no one to wrestle and Dennis being the generous man that he was 'did a job' for him as we say in the Business. To the lay man, this means deliberately losing to give the other man credibility, and as a result, Lock won a place in the national Olypic team. I often see scouser Tony who hails from Liverpool , when Sarah and I are doing shows in the North, his trademark red hair and beard much the same as all those years ago, and we often speak of those days. Dennis was a lean mean fighting machine, and a privilige to know. A one off who will be sorely missed by us all.

PRINCE OF WALES-ORIG WILLIAMS DEAD

11th November 2009

R.I.P. ORIG WILLIAMS 1932-2009

The great Welsh lion : ORIG WILLIAMS passed away peacefully today, following a short stay in Hospital. Orig has been a bastion of British wrestling for over 50 years, serving as a wrestler of distinction, appearing as himself and EL BANDITO, and as a Promoter, earning the utmost respect from his peers for the quality of his performances. Who will forget his Reslo shows on Welsh TV, featuring the legendary stars of the mat world, equalling anything seen on World of Sport ?? He was the most helpful of all grapplers to up and coming stars of the day such as the inimitable and much loved Klondyke Kate , plus many more, acting as mentor and teacher. His humour and story telling was unequalled amongst the wrestling ranks.

The British Wrestlers Reunion had prepared a life achievement award for the last two years, but Orig's failing health prevented him making the journey from his beloved Rhyl to receive it. In a recent telephone conversation with the reunion, he said that he was looking forward to 2010 and being at the function to be honoured.

Former Lightweight Champion of the World and wrestling God : Johnny Saint, also a resident of Rhyl alongside the magnificent star: amazing Kung Fu -Eddie Hamill , gave a stirring tribute to the King of Welsh wrestling on BBC Radio Wales this evening.

The whole world of grappling is reeling from losing two great names within one week and as always the whole fraternity's thoughts are with the family.

Tribute to Orig Williams by Jayne Hansford a.k.a. Klondyke Kate -beautifully poignant, as only she can tell it.

The very first time I met Orig williams I was in the "pit" (aptly named because it was a basement flat and it was painted deep purple with a mural of a black woman with a huge afro hairstyle the mural was about 6' high and very impressive) in Rhyl, a stop over from Liverpool Stadium ready for another job somewhere in Wales this would be late 1977. There at the invite of Crusher Mason, Orig walked in the pit took one look at me and said "hello who is this then?" Crusher told him I was a new girl and he looked me up and down and said "she'll never be a wrestler as long as she's got a hole in her arse"!! and promptly walked out of the pit saying "Crusher, Office"

Years later having been on his firm for many years he delighted in telling anyone who'd listen about the day he first met me in the pit and what he said to me. He always thought it was funny but he always said after how wrong he was about me and that he was a blind old fool.

I have a 1,000 memories of Orig some funny, some scary and some I wouldn't dare repeat to anyone outside the wrestling circles. He was a bold, funny, cantankerous bugger who's voice put the fear of god in you if you had done something wrong but what he also gave me was love, friendship, a roof over my head, a wrestling career and a wealth of knowledge of the wrestling business all of which he didn't give out easily without earning it. He gave me some of the best days of my life, a chance to travel the world, fun, laughter and he taught me to take no shit from anyone.

I will miss him with all my heart. He blessed many people's lives with his wit and stories that kept us entertained for hours. He always said he was the true Prince of Wales and I believe that he was. He leaves us with memories to treasure forever and I for one will never forget him and what he and Wendy did for me. Love you Orig. Wherever you are I hope you are giving the buggers hell like only you can!

( Legends- Barry Griffith, Mitzi Mueller, Robbie Brookside, Orig Williams, Klondyke kate)

Tribute from the great Frankie Sloane

R.I.P Orig Williams
we had our fall outs and make ups, but you were always someone i could enjoy talking to, and have a laugh with. You've been generous to me, very helpful sent me to a lot of places. I will never forget you sitting in bars telling stories.. sleep well
Orig : "Frankie would you like a drink my son?"
Frankie: "Jack Daniels and coke please Sir"
Orig " thats 2 fucking drinks !!"

Tributes by Legends Keith Myatt and the immortal Al Miquet.

Never to be forgotten. A giant among men !!

Tribute by Wendy Mellor -widow of Hans Streiger and former partner of Keith Martinelli

I am stunned by his death. A true character and legend of the wrestling Business.

BBC Radio wales report :-

Former wrestler El Bandito dies

Orig Williams, known to his fans as El Bandito, toured the world promoting the sport of wrestling.

Welsh wrestler El Bandito has died at the age of 78.

Under his stage name, Orig Williams toured the world promoting the sport of wrestling.

He found even greater fame in the ring on the Welsh language TV programme, Reslo, shown in the 1980s on S4C, and became one of its biggest stars.

But before even entering the wrestling ring he was a professional footballer and a boxer, and later a newspaper columnist.

He leaves a wife Wendy and daughter Tara Bethan, the actress, who was a finalist in BBC TV's musical talent show I'd Do Anything last year.

"He contributed extensively to programmes and series on S4C, particularly Reslo, and was a strong, warm and exuberant personality, which made him a popular character with viewers and colleagues," said a spokesperson for S4C.

"We extend our sincere sympathies to his family."

The fighter and promoter gained his famous El Bandito name while touring America.

More recently he worked to promote young wrestlers, including organising bouts to raise money for Urdd national eisteddfod.

Urdd eisteddfod director Aled Sion added: "It is a great loss to the nation and to the Urdd.

"He was an enthusiastic supporter of the movement and worked hard to organise events to raise money for the 2008 Conwy eisteddfod, including a night of American wrestling in Llanrwst."

Born in the village of Ysbyty Ifan near Betws-y-Coed in 1932, he once described how he took to fighting when Liverpool evacuees came to stay in the area during World War II.

"We couldn't speak English, they couldn't speak Welsh, so we had fights, naturally," he recalled.

The online British wrestling site, Britannia Wrestling, describes him as "one of the best villains in the business", who "played hard and wrestled hard and had great admiration for guys who did the same".

But alongside his wrestling and promotion career, he was also a skilled footballer, playing professionally for Oldham Athletic and Shrewsbury Town, later becoming the player/manager for Nantlle Vale.

He also was a regular columnist for the Daily Post newspaper.

Wales' Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones said: "I was very saddened to hear of Orig Williams's death.

"Orig was a very likeable, colourful character.

"He was a man who brought pleasure to people across Wales through his wrestling, his work on TV and radio, and also as a footballer and football manager, especially for Nantlle Vale FC.

"Wales will be a less colourful place without his unique personality."

Death of a legend

1st November 2009

( Ted Fretwell -right, receives life achievement award with Charlie Cornish)

Ted Fretwell, legendary referee and corner man for the last 55 years has sadly passed away in hospital near his Pevensey Bay home . Ted has been in the wrestling Business since 1954, starting his illustrious ring career as a boxer and anchor man for Dale-Martins, before touring the Country as referee, where he met and worked with the biggest stars on the circuit. When that became too much for him, he settled for a long and rewarding career as corner man, appearing on TV more times than the wrestlers themselves. Away from the ring, Tted loved to sing and appeared as a Professional many times at his local venues where he was considered to be the local Frank Sinatra. His involvement and love of the grapple game, was such that he remained doing shows up until his untimely death last week, working on modern shows for LDN promotions and featuring on the Annual legend shows, with fellow second : Charlie Cornish. Last year, Ted Fretwell was honoured with a life achievement award by the Wrestlers Reunion for his services to wrestling.This easy going likeable man would always take photos of all the occsasions, many of which are featured on this site.

Sadly, he told me on the phone last week that he was going to retire from all work at 71 years young and celebrated last Saturday as his start of retirement, but by Monday, had collapsed with the main artery to his heart bursting in his chest. His last week was spent on a life support machine with his children and beloved wife: Dianne at his bedside. The Doctors finally were able to remove the machines but following one last kiss and a squeeze of his hand from his devoted wife, he passed away peacefully on Halloween Saturday- the 31st

The whole wrestling fraternity and particularly his many friends among the reunion members will miss his engaging smile and laid back friendliness. A true legend and a man of many talents.

Our sincerest thoughts are now with Dianne and the five children.

The funeral takes place on Friday 13th November in Eastbourne. Please email for details.

( Ted Fretwell with old friend : Barry Cooper)

WAYNE BRIDGES ANNOUNCEMENT

8th September 2009

Recently, the FWA Promotion was reformed with an opening show at Broxbourne. During that show it was announced that a charitable Trust had been formed , to raise monies for wrestlers who had suffered hard times, with collections being made during the evening. Whilst such a thought is highly commendable, the practicalities are extremely complicated with separate Bank accounts required, a formal Charity status established with the Inland Revenue, adjudicating officers appointed to monitor dispersal etc..

I have been asked by our founder : Joe D'Orazio, Treasurer : Sarah Bridges and the Committee to emphasise that the British Wrestlers Reunion has no connection with this venture, and that no monies have or will be received by the Reunion from the FWA.

We exist solely as a vehicle for wrestlers, officials , their families and supporters to come together on a regular basis, in friendship to share a mutual love of wrestling, whether it be Freestyle, Submission or Professional wrestling from across the eras. We are a totally voluntary Organisation, non profit making and self supporting with funds received from our American sponsors, your kind donations, newsletter sales,raffles, and the profits from the bar during the functions. Any spare funds are utilised for sundry items such as wreaths during times of bereavement, Christmas cards etc..

The FWA has been a highly respected and popular Promotion with the younger audiences over the last ten years, and the Reunion wishes them every success in their endeavours.

WAYNE BRIDGES

Reunion report from Jo Huckle

10th August 2009

( photos in 2009 gallery)

Sunday 9^th August.

As day broke and the sun rose high in the sky, the eagerly anticipated 18^th British Wrestlers Reunion was finally upon us. The smell of newly mown grass wafted from the garden of The Bridges public house in South Darenth and by ten o’clock guests were already arriving, keen to make the most of what promised to be a beautiful day.

Inside, the walls were adorned with posters for shows starring names from a bygone age, such as Peter Maivia, Kiwi Kingston, George Kidd and Black Butcher Johnson alongside more recent stars like the Royal Brothers, Jon Cortez and Brian Maxine.

Whilst Wayne Bridges ensured everything was in order for the awards presentation, his wife Sarah and her team were busy in the kitchen cooking vast quantities of chilli, bolognaise, rice & pasta to accompany the cold dishes already prepared.

Johnny Saint was one of the first to arrive, clad in motorcycle leathers and having biked all the way from Wales. Before long the pub was heaving, the sound of excited voices filled the air and friends some of whom hadn’t met for many a year were reunited once more.

Wrestlers, referees, MCs and those from all corners of the wrestling fraternity mingled with fans, signing autographs and posing for photos. Once again several wrestlers made their way from overseas, Basil Riley from Tenerife and three French stars from the 1960s – Jean Corne, Michel Saulnier & Le Comte de Noirbreuil – Joel de Fremery also joined us. Although one or two “big names” were unable to attend as planned, dozens of familiar faces past and present were there – Steve Veidor, Mick Mc Manus, Peter Szakacs, Lee Bronson, Mal Sanders, Harry Kendall, Prince Kumali, Spencer Churchill, Billy Stock, Ian Muir, Roy St Clair & Colin Joynson to name but a few.

The formal part of the day’s proceedings consisted of the traditional reading of the obituaries by Colin Joynson, followed by a 10 Bell Count and a minute silence to remember those who had passed away during the previous year – Stefan Milla, Fred Rondel, Tony Rowney, Tim Fizmaurice and Mitsuharu Misawa.

After a short speech by Mick Mc Manus, awards were given to Frank “Chic” Cullen, Adam “Muscles” Mansfield, the three Frenchmen - Joel, Michel & Jean and last but not least to the man at the very heart of the Reunion, Frank Rimer. Lenny Hurst was also due to receive an award, but unfortunately he left prior to the presentation.

Among those mentioned in the obituaries was Mrs Marjorie Assirati, widow of the formidable strongman and heavyweight champion Bert Assirati , who was greatly respected in her own right as a promoter. Bert’s wish to be laid to rest amongst friends was finally honoured as the ashes of both he and Marjorie were scattered in the flower bed by their niece Anita, her husband Lewis and friends from the wrestling world.

Lunch was served after which the raffle was drawn by “Gay One” Vince Randell and Jo Huckle. The proceeds from the raffle as always made a valuable contribution to the ever increasing cost of running the Reunion, so thank you all for your support.

Eventually numbers dwindled as the crowd dispersed but many were still there well into the early evening exchanging the latest news and reminiscing on years gone by. And so a highly successful 18^th Annual Reunion drew to its close.

The Reunion would like to thank everyone who attended and made the day one to remember. Our thanks go especially all those behind the scenes – Wayne & Sarah, Sarah’s Mum, the kitchen and bar staff, Frank, Joe D’Orazio and everyone who’s hard work contributed to such an enjoyable day. Finally perhaps we should also thank those in the “Dressing Room in the Sky” the concerted efforts of whom undoubtedly had some influence on the beautiful weather!

Hope to see you all on Sunday 8^th August 2010!

BERT AND MARJORIE ASSIRATI TOGETHER FOREVER

9th August 2009

There was a poignant moment during todays reunion when the ashes of ring legend Bert Assirati and his wife Marjorie, who passed away recently aged 92, were scattered in garden at The Bridges. Bert, Britain’s most feared heavyweight campaigner throughout almost four decades, died in 1990 but it was the wish of the formidable former Promoter Marjorie - who always preferred to be known simply as Mrs Assirati - that their ashes should be laid to rest together, in the Company of their dearest wrestling friends, where they could always be near to their old colleagues.

The couple’s niece Anita Cooper and her husband Lewis were joined by several wrestlers in a simple ceremony in a quiet corner of the Bridges’ garden after Lewis paid a short tribute to the man known as the ‘Islington Hercules’ who held British, European and Commonwealth heavyweight honours during a career starting in the 1930s and ending in the early 1960s.

Bert was one wrestler who never took any prisoners and many notable campaigners, particularly in the United States, made great efforts to avoid him both before and after the Second World War. Even in the twilight of his career in the 1950s, Bert completed a four year world tour taking in India, Ceylon, Pakistan, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and South Africa.

He returned to find that he had been stripped of the British title with Yorkshireman Ernie Baldwin having emerged as champion from a nationwide series of eliminations. A meeting between the pair was inevitable and after a brutal battle at London’s Royal Albert Hall it was the arm of Bert that was raised in victory by referee Lou Marco. Bert Assirati was never a classic hold master and sometimes even seemed to bully his way to victory. But his strength and power were awesome and he certainly deserves to be remembered among wrestling’s immortals.

(courtesy of Russell Plummer- bigtime wrestling. co.uk )

Reunion report by Ray Plunkett

14th September 2009

Here is Rays Reunion Report....

SOUTHERN WRESTLERS REUNION 2009 REPORT by Ray Plunkett

The sun shone brightly on old/new faces at this years reunion.

Among those wrestlers/officials who were there for this years meeting were
French Wrestlers,JEAN CORNE, JOEL DE NOIRBRUELL and MICHEL SAULNIER who could not believe that amongst old wrestlers people like AL MIQUET, MICK McMANUS, BOB ANTHONY, PAUL LINCOLN, BOB KIRKWOOD and JOHNNY SAINT were there to greet them.

To see JEAN CORNE’s face when he saw JOHNNY SAINT(first time in 31 years) was an absolute picture itself.

FRANK CULLEN came over from Canada and LEN HURST from America.

The French Wrestlers have already told me that they will be coming next year.

Amongst the lighter weight wrestlers were TOM THUMB, BOB COLLINS, FRED BENTLEY,JIMMY SULLIVAN, JOHNNY KIDD,
TONY SKARLO, PETER SZAKACS, JOE D’ORAZIO, ALAN SERGEANT, BILLY STOCK, 'GAY ONE' VINCE RANDELL, JOHN HALL, JOHN RITCHIE, SUPERSTAR SANDERS, KEITH MYATT, RYAN GOLD, JAMES MASON, JOE QUESECK, TONY KELLY, STEVE AND GARY DOCHERTY, ADAM MANSFIELD, TONY SIMPSON (Sefton) , ALEC REID, DANIEL (slippery) EELS, JOEY SCARLO, ALAN BATT,
DEREK WILLIAMS, MAD DOG KEVIN RICHMOND.

In the Heavyweights there was DAVE BOND, JOHNNY KINCAID, WAYNE BRIDGES, SPENCER CHURCHILL, PRINCE KUMALI, STEVE VEIDOR, ROMANY RILEY, REX STRONG, LEE BRONSON, TONY BATES, BANGER WALSH, JOHNNY HURLEY, ROY ST CLAIR, COLIN JOYNSON, TONY CASSIO & JOHN PRATER,HARRY KENDALL, MEL STUART, ROCKER RICHARDS, ADAM MANSFIELD, DANNY GARNELL, ALEX SHANE, ANDY BOY SIMMONS, KLONDYKE KATE and her daughter FARRAH, MAL MASON.

Former officials BILLY BARBER, BOBBY STAFFORD, MAL MASON, PETER BAINES were also there.

JO HUCKLE was in charge of proceedings for the first time,with good old FRANK RIMER helping out.

Nice to see OLD DAVID (enjoying his double act with Keith Myatt!!),GRIZZLED VETERAN, PALAIS FAN,
COUCH POTATOWEIGHT, 78 KID, FOREARM SMASH, HACK and BEARHUG all enjoying themselves.

WE ARE BACK !!!

08/09/09

After a month of being off line, we are relieved to announce that it is Business as usual for the British Wrestlers Reunion website, and we promise to make it bigger and better than ever.

As a safeguard to prevent a re- occurence of anything similar, we have purchased Britishwrestlersreunion.com as a mirror image of this site.Over the coming weeks, we shall be introducing more changes to enhance this very popular site dedicated to British wrestling.

kindly accept profound and sincerest apologies extended to all our regular supporters for this anomale which was caused by the Domain holders in the USA and Switzerland failing to accept our renewal fees. The website name is now under the auspices of a U.K. Company called Nominet U.K. and there should be no further problems.

Whilst being offline, we have enjoyed a fabulous day out at the Annual Reunion, a report and photos of which will be posted imminently.

I am also humbly proud to announce my return to the Organising Committee of the British Wrestlers Reunion following my one year retirement, which will include the website and newsletters etc..plus the events themselves, having been coaxed back by Joe D'orazio and Wayne / Sarah Bridges.

May we take this opportunity however to thank Martin Berry ( Rocker Richards) , and legendary referee : Bobby Stafford who will be stepping down , for all their efforts.

Former M.C. to the late great Danny Lynch's Promotions : Jo Huckle who did a superb job this year on the invitations and awards etc., has agreed to participate in a secretarial role assisting me with the daily tasks.

Thank you

Frank Rimer

The Reunion

19th July

The Reunion is quickly approaching and by now those who have paid for there newsletters should have received them in the post and you should all have received your invites.

The reunion will be held as always at the Bridges Public House, Horton Road, South Darenth and will be starting at around 11am going on til late. There will be many guests at this years event aswell as the usual awards ceremony and honouring the fallen stars of this past year so come along and bring your friends and family to the Bridges Pub on SUNDAY AUGUST 9th!!!!!

See you all there!

Mrs Assirati dies

2nd July

Marjorie Assirati the widow of wrestling great Bert Assirati has died aged 92.

Mrs Assirati , who lived alone in a bungalow near Brighton, was a staunch supporter of the Reunion and an ardent follower of her husbands work, as well as being a Promoter of some renown herself.

The Reunion sends its condolences to the family and friends of Marjorie.

Mad Fred Dies

Norbert Friedrich 'Fred' Rondel who wrestled in the 1950s as Vladimir Waldberg ‘The Polish Eagle' died in June in hospital in Camberwell at the age of 82. During his career he was in the ring with the top men of his day including champion Bert Assirati mainly working for Sammy King. The son of a prominent Jewish Berlin businessman Fred was abandoned by his family in Germany when they left for Palestine in 1936 when he was nine. He came to England in December 1938 under a scheme bringing Jewish children from Germany and was educated in Manchester at one time studying to be a rabbi. After his wrestling career ended he worked for the property entrepreneur Peter Rachman and he served sentence for assault. Rondel always claimed he had been negligently defended but although he took a case to the House of Lords he lost when it was ruled that as a matter of public policy a barrister could not be sued for negligence. He was buried on 30 June at Waltham Abbey Jewish cemetery.

Tony Rowney Dead

Kettering Wrestler Tony Rowney has died at the age of 70.

For a full bio please check the following link http://www.northantset.co.uk/news/Kettering-wrestler-Tony-dies-aged.5406932.jp

Jim Thomas Dies

29th June

We've just received word from his son Lee, that former wrestler Jim Thomas who worked as Count Coral alongside Harold Maggs as the Ace Tag Team. He passed away on June 12th and his funeral was 25th June.

The reunion would like to offer Jims family our condolences.

Japanese Legend Dead

20th June

Japanese Wrestling Legend Mitsuharu Misawa has died in the ring at the age of 46. The accident happened at the NOAH show in Hiroshima Japan last week with the Wrestling Legend receiving a belly to back suplex, a move he has taken hundreds of times. Once landing in the ring he was knocked unconcious but despite best efforts to revive him he was pronounced dead at the hospital at 10.10 pm. It is believed the cause of death is spinal cord damage.

The reunion would like to offer its condolences to all family and friends of this great grappler.

Pukka One to Semi Retire

15th May 2009

The pukka one Darren Burridge, one of Britains finest and most beloved wrestlers has issued the following statement regarding the status of his career.

Important Message from ‘Pukka One’ Darren Burridge

First off, I want to say hi to all my fans, and thank them for all the great messages of support you have been sending me on the internet to my facebook and such, this week marks the 1 year anniversary of the injury I suffered whilst wrestling Harlow. I tore my ACL and MCL ligaments and destroyed my cartledge.

So far I have had keyhole surgery where they removed the damaged cartledge and I was waiting to see the specialist about the second part of the operation. I didn’t want to mention anything until I knew for certain a date that I can say to everyone “this is the day I will be back” I was hoping that day would be today. I should have known that it wouldn’t have been that smooth.

I am now on the waiting list for a complete ACL reconstruction (the waiting list could be up to a year max). Once that has been operated on it is another year of rehab and physio and as the doctor says non physical contact sports, which basically means no wrestling. So in all we are looking at 2 years before I seriously consider getting back in to a wrestling ring in a competitive form.

I felt like crying when he told me this, I had assumed that today I would be told a day for my operation, I had assumed that today I would write a statement to tell everyone for the first time official confirmation when I can get back in the ring, but instead I am writing a slightly different statement.

It is with a heavy heart I am announcing my semi retirement from wrestling. Please notice I wrote SEMI. Any wrestler and fan for that matter knows that when you’re a wrestler you’re always a wrestler, it’s in your blood, for some reason we love to get in the ring and roll around with a bunch of sweaty men in Lycra and can’t get enough of it. I don’t want to be one of these guys who announces his retirement, gets all the fuss and then is back in the ring 10 minutes later. I will, however still carry on my role as manager in the maximus sports theatre productions in Harlow playhouse as the Essex cowboy (trust me, if you haven’t seen this yet, get down to Harlow!! It’s like nothing you have ever seen before!!)

I might be back I might not, I just thought it would be best to let you the fans know and those wrestlers who said "where you been? I thought you just quit or something " thanks (please insert sarcasm chip in to your computer, by the time I’m back wrestling they probably would have been invented by then).

But to tell the truth although I am gutted, I am wise enough to know that I will probably never be in the same condition as before and I hear a lot of people say that when you have your knees operated on they are never the same again. But luckily for me where one door shuts (well not shut just left on the hatch) another opens. I have shifted my focus onto other areas, other areas that would probably not be available to me if it was not for wrestling in the first place. So even if I never step in a ring competing again I can honestly say I have achieved so much in this great sport! I have done so many things I never thought I would but knew I could if I tried. There may still be even more that I was meant to achieve in wrestling, team shag anyone???. Who knows!?

Incase this is it, I would like to thank the following people for the ride:

Frank Rimer
Vince Randell
Alex Shane
Charly Rage
Terry Frasier
Steven Gauntley
Brian Manelli
Paul Tyrell
Lee Darren
Jace The Ace
Jonny Storm
Scott Conway

What ever you do in life, do it and have fun,, and remember no man is an island except for when he is in the bath!!

Thanks,

‘Pukka One’ Darren Burridge

The Pukka one started his career at the infamous Dropkixx Wrestling academy and went on to become one of the best loved and most well travelled stars from the UK. On a personal note i've wrestled Darren many times and he is truely one of the best wrestlers to lace up a pair of boots. The reunion would like to wish Darren all the best for a speedy recovery and return to the ring!

Judo Al Hollamby

12th May

We have received word from Judo Al Hollamby that he has recently had a successful heart operation and is well on the road to recovery. He also sent word that he will be attending the reunion and is looking forward to seeing all of his old pals!

In the coming weeks i will be compiling the latest reunion newsletter, if anyone has anything that they would like to contribute then please get in touch with us via email

Mickey Rourke to appear at Lakeside show.

30th January 2009

( Hollywood superstar :Mickey Rourke with Yorghos Cristopolous)

Following the phenominal success of the Hollywood movie : The Wrestler, which is playing to sellout auduences throughout the U.K. and across the world, star of the film : MICKEY ROURKE has agreed to fly into Britain to correspond with the release of the DVD and to appear at the Lakeside show run by SANJAY BAGGA'S : LDN WRESTLING.

The up and coming Promotion has assisted with the advertising of the hit movie and some of the young wrestling stars of today were invited to the recent U.K. premier at Leicester Square where Rourke was delighted to meet and greet the boys especially Champion : YORGHOS CRISTOPOLOUS

Mickey Rourke trained for eight months top become fit enough to portray veteran grappler : Randy the Ram, and worked closely with ROH boys including Claudio Castignole a devoted supporter of the Reunion. Rourke turns in a rivoting performance as the ageing wrestler, and has been acclaimed with BAFTA and oscar nominations for his tremendous acting skills, and poignant portrayal of how wrestling really effects the grapplers in body and mind.

The word is that he will make a one off appearance on the WWE RAW against the American legend : CHRIS JERICHO, so watch for announcements.

We shall post more details of the LOndon visit nearer the time.

( LDN wrestlers Danny Garnell, Mikey Mendoza, Yorghos Cristopolous, Alan, and Justin Richards with Sanjay Bagga at London Premiere.)

LDN show Maidstone -Feb 20

30th January 2009

Promoters : LDN Capital wrestling run by the entrepreneur : SANJAY BAGGA, will be presenting their inaugeral show at the prestigious Maidstone Leisure Centre on Friday the 20th January. The show which is being filmed for Sky TV will feature young stars such as : LEROY KINCAID, JON RITCHIE, the Reunion's own : ROCKER RICHARDS, DANNY GARNELL, STEFAN HARD, MUSCLES MANSFIELD, royal butler : DAVID DE VILLE, LEE WALKER , plus many more from the stable that has excited the Fight Channel fans for the last three years.

Many veterans of yesteryear will attend, including WAYNE BRIDGES, SARAH BRIDGES, FRANK RIMER, plus the man who came second to Geof Capes as the worlds strongest man : STEVE WINTER and more.

Stefan Milla dead

30th January 2009

( Stefan Milla receives life time achievement award )

We have been informed by RICK BOWLING that the great legendary STEFAN MILLA died on January 17th at the St.James Hospital in London, following a short illness.

Milla who had been a champion amateur wrestler before turning Pro., and was the former Chairman of the United AWA club. He was also patron of many other amateur clubs.

During his illustrious Professional career, the Danish born lightweight star became a headliner during the fifties and sixties , and was considered one of the greatest mat men of his time.

Outside wrestling, Stefan enjoyed a long career as a schoolteacher, and during his retirement years, spent his free time commuting backwards and forwards between his home at St. Katherines Dock and the USA.

RICK BOWLING met STEFAN MILLA whilst he was an amateur himself, and was so impressed that he started up the very first wrestlers fan club in the U.K. for his idol.

The two men enjoyed a lifelong friendship as a result. In 2002, the British Wrestlers Reunion honoured Milla's commitment to wrestling with a life achievement award.

( The immortal Bernard Murray whips Stefan Milla while Joe D'Orazio looks on helplessly.)

Ray Clark Book

29th Jan 09

Staunch supporter of the reunion Ray Clark has recently released a book entitled Calix, this book can be ordered at all major online retailers and is selling well. Ray will be signing copies of the book at The Bookshop on Pasture Road in Goole on Wednesday 25th February, between 2:00 & 4:00.

Chris Adams

25th Jan 09

We've just received word from the makers of a new movie about the life of our very own Chris Adams who of course went on to great success in the US after a great career here in the UK. Once in the US Chris made a huge impact winning several titles and having a hand in the training of Stone Cold Steve Austin who of course went onto being one of the biggest stars in wrestling history. The movie can be viewed online at www.gentlemanschoice.tv at a cost of $8

Johnny Kidd Wrestler of the Year for Premier

23rd January 2009

JOHNNY KIDD is the Wrestler of the Year for 2008.

Kidd, who bowed out of the spotlight at the end of the year after a glittering career stretching back to the halcyon days of ITV's World of Sport, topped the nation-wide poll of Premier Wrestling Club members.

He came out on top in the closest voting since the awards, the longest established and most definitive in British wrestling, were inaugurated 14 years ago. Jonny Storm and James Tighe were joint runners-up, just ahead of Martin Stone.

The award is the ultimate accolade for Kidd, who quit the ring at the top of his game, having recently won the PWF middleweight title and lifted the Ken Joyce Trophy on his last appearance at the Worthing Assembly Hall on December 30 when he beat long-time rival Blondie Barratt in a memorable final.

Jonny Storm was voted Most Popular Wrestler for the first time, with Doug Williams a close second and Robbie Brookside in third place, while Joel Redman was the runaway winner of the Young Wrestler of the Year award for the second time, and Ricky Knight was voted best villain for the fifth successive year.

Kincaide and Davies on the Radio!

5th Jan 09

World of Sport legends Johnny Kincaide and Dickie Davies will be appearing on BBC Radio tomorrow morning (Tuesday) at around 7am to speak about the glory days of wrestling. The radio show they will be on is for BBC Radio Cambridge and is the Ben Stephenson show so tune in to hear what John and Dick have to say!!!

Internet down!

5th Jan 2009

Just a quick apology to all who have tried to email me over the past few weeks, unfortunately my internet access has been down and i've been unable to update the site and check my emails as regularly as i would have liked. This issue will be resolved by the end of the week i hope.

Tim Fitzmaurice Dead

5th Jan 09

It is with great sadness that the British Wrestlers Reunion learned that another of wrestlings great stars from yesteryear, Tim Fitzmaurice has passed away. His funeral will be held on January 20th at 10am at the Holy Innocence Church, Elmers End, Beckenham.

Together with his brother Jim Fitzmaurice the two Irish stars dazzled audiences for over thirty years.

The reunion committee would like to extend its condolences to all friends and the family of Tim.

( Jim Fitzmaurice with arm lever on Zoltan Boschik )

Gentlemans Choice

A fabulous new movie about the life of our very own Gentleman Chris Adams, who was not only a great success in British rings but went to the USA where he became a global mega star! Chris was trained for the ring by Banger Walsh and spent years and years making a name for himself. This new documentary available for viewing online at a very reasonable price of $8 (about £4) features comments from all of Chris's closest friends in the business including the von erichs and Banger himself.

The full movie, which i can highly recommend for all fans of wrestling and non fans alike can be viewed at http://gentleman.eyesoda.com the trailer is online at You Tube, just search Gentlemans Choice!

Johnny Kidd to retire

JOHNNY KIDD will make his farewell appearance on the Premier Promotions Christmas Spectacular at Worthing Assembly Hall on December 30.

Kidd, a legend in his own lifetime and one of the most respected men in wrestling, will hang up his boots at the end of a glittering career that stretches back to the halcyon days of the World of Sport bouts on ITV every Saturday afternoon.

There could be no more appropriate send-off for Kidd than to appear for the last time at one of the longest established and most prolific venues in the country and to be taking part in the annual tournament for the Ken Joyce Trophy.

The names of Kidd and Joyce are synonymous in wrestling. Kidd was a protege of the former European champion, and it was Joyce who gave Kidd his professional contest on one of his promotions some 30 years ago.

Kidd was also his opponent when Joyce made his last television appearance before he retired in 1982.

Kidd, the current PWF middleweight champion, will face stiff competition in the Worthing showpiece from one of his old rivals, the Rock and Roll Express Blondie Barratt, as well as Kent tough-guy Jon Ryan and another title-holder, the welterweight No. 1 Barry Cooper.

Barratt, former tag team partner of the notorious Kendo Nagasaki, will be making a rare foray from his Sheffield base to tackle Kidd. It is only his second appearance in Worthing since 2002.

The trophy event is one half of a double main event feature on the show which will also see Doug Williams, the five-times Wrestler of the Year, defend his PWF heavyweight championship against powerful South Coast contender James Tighe, who beat him in a non-title bout during the summer season.

The show, which is linked to the Mayor of Worthing's Charity Fund, starts at 7.45, and tickets, including special reserved ringside seats, are available from the box office, telephone 01903 206206, or via the Worthing Theatres website.

Legends 2 success

19th December 2008

( Joe D'Orazio surrounded by Bob Anthony, Mad Monk, Alan Batt, Steve Grey, Lee Bronson and more)

November 29th saw the Annual Legends 2 show come to the Civic Centre , Grays, Near Lakeside, in front of a packed capacity audience enjoying the thrills and spills from the biggest Legends in wrestling, past and present.

The evening commenced with a young Legend match featuring 'Dangerous' Danny Garnell and wrestling 'Footman' to Her Majesty the Queen : Buckingham Palace resident David De Ville, followed by the much anticipated clash between former World Champion Johnny Saint and the younger Superstar : Danny 'Boy' Collins. This was followed by a Legends parade in which M.C. Frank Rimer paid tribute to legendary referee and Reunion President : Joe D'Orazio also honouring the inimitable Mick McManus. Both men now a staggering 86 years young, actually climbed into the ring alongside fellow grappling greats who entered the ring one by one to taker a bow and pay tribute to these great characters including : Steve Grey, Lee Bronson, Alan Batt, Bob Anthony, Billy La Rue, Bobby Stafford, Brian the Mad Monk,Johnny Saint,Johnny Kidd, and many more. The third exciting match of the star packed evening, was between young LDN title holder Yorghos and veteran campaigner : Bob 'Blondie' Barratt, and following a short interval, the great Johnny Kincaid returned to British rings against 'Bad Boy' Jon Ritchie with Ponsonby to demonstrate just what a Legend he really is. The final long awaited bout of the night, saw World of Sport star : Keith Myatt take on the ever popular Johnny Kidd , who in his run up to retirement thrilled the cheering audioence with his skills. After the match LDN Promoter Sanjay Bagga and M.C. Steve Lytton invited young Legends of today to enter the ring and award Johnny Kidd a Life achievement honour for all his efforts over the last 30 years. Stars such as Mikey Mendoza and Rocker Richards, joined other young grapplers to pay homage to this true legend of the mat world. Other guests included Brennie and Michelle, daughter and grand daughter of the late great Johnny Kwango. Grapplers such as Derek Williams ,Steve Serene, 'Mad Dog' Richmond were all spotted in the audience. Ted Fretwell and Charlie Cornish acted as seconds to make a superb evening complete.

The DVD is due to be released in early Feb. details to follow, and Sky TV are negotiating with the Promoters for a new contract in 2009, meanwhile to whet your taste buds, here is a clip of the wonderful evening.

p.s. Dont forget to put the sound on !!

Jim Hussey's wife dies

18th December 2008

The Reunion Committee are sad to announce the death of 'Jumping' Jim Hussey's beloved wife Lynn, aged 82 years. The Legendary grappler from Manchester was happily married to his childhood sweetheart for 63 long years, giving birth to two children : Lynsey and her world famous brother Mark who was to become the incomparable 'Rollerball' Rocco.

Long before wrestling brought fame to Rocco, he and his sister were excellent show jumpers and rode often with that other great Champion horseman of the matworld : Harvey Smith.

The funeral was held today in Manchester and such was the popularity of much loved lady, that a host of household wrestling names attended to pay their respects headed by grieving husband 84 year old Jim Hussey.

Mourners were:

Mark Rocco, John Cox, Roy St. Clair, Skull Murphy, Bobby Ryan, Alf Cadman, Keith Martinelli, Colin and Helen Joynson, to name but a few.

The arrangements were made by Colin and Helen Joynson on behalf of Mark Rocco who now resides in Tenerife.

( Jumping Jim Hussey and Tony Charles )

( Mark Rocco)

Our deepest sympathies to go out to the whole family in their moment of sorrow.

Happy Birthday Dynamite!

One of the most successful wrestlers ever from the UK the Dynamite Kid turns 50 years old today! The reunion would like to extend our best wishes to Dynamite and wish him a very happy birthday.

The Fight Network Gone

We have recently learned that the Fight Network has decided to cancel its UK channel. This of course is the channel that shows World of Sport and LDN Capital TV here in the UK on Sky channel 427. At this time we don't know if this is a permanent thing or whether the channel will return.

Premier Promotions

Premier Promotions

21st Anniversary

Wrestling Spectacular

The Hove Centre

(formerly Hove Town Hall)

Sunday 7th December 2008 - 3pm

Tag Team Match

Brian 'Goldbelt' Maxine & Kris Kay

versus

Johnny Kidd & Barry Cooper

*****

Robbie Brookside v Drew McDonald

*****

Doug Williams v Zack Sabre Jnr.

*****

Martin Stone v Joel Redman

*****

Tag Team Match

Jonny Storm & Wade Fitzgerald

versus

Mark Haskins & Mark Sloan

*****

MC: Mr. John Freemantle

Referee: Steve Grey

*****

All Tickets - Unreserved

£3.50 each

***********************************************

Jimmy Niblet Dead

The British Wrestlers Reunion just received word that legendary grappler Jimmy Niblet died last Tueasday aged 86. His funeral will be held at the Old Parsonage, Bolton on Wednesday at 12.00

Jimmy wrestled for many years under the name of Bob Sherry. he had an
impeccable wrestling background - Bolton Harriers AWC, Olympic Games,
Riley's gym at Wigan, service in WW2 with Royal Marine Commandos.A good
friend and an excellent wrestler (shoot or show). A fanatical fell
runner after retiring from the ring and was still competing at 80 years
of age.

He wrestled every one in welter/middlewights during his career - the
Royals, Pallo, Tommy Mann, Chic Purvey, George Kidd plus countless
others. He was a quiet but humerous man and honest in his dealings with
others.

Eddie Rose

RDW Promotions

We have been informed by RDW that Sykes who is one of their top stars has decided to quit in ring competition following on from a severe shoulder injury which he sustained a few weeks ago. Sykes who also promotes RDW has decided to postpone there big anniversary show which was due to take place this weekend and will resume promoting soon. Ring hire facilities will still be available from RDW but Sykes has decided that he will no longer wrestle. For more information see the RDW website.

Premier Promotions

THE BIG 2008

WRESTLING SPECTACULAR

AT 1987 PRICES!

The Hove Centre

Sunday 7 December at 3pm

DOUG WILLIAMS ADDED TO BILL

GLOBE-TROTTING wrestling star Doug Williams has been added to the
line-up for the Hove Centre’s 21st anniversary grappling show.

Williams, the biggest star in British wrestling, is jetting back from
Japan earlier than scheduled to take his place in the huge 2008
spectacular on Sunday, December 7.

The reigning PWF heavyweight champion is one of the most in-demand
performers in the world and spends most of the year in Japan, where he
appears for the leading NOAH promotion, in America, where he is
contracted to the giant TNA organisation, or in rings throughout Europe.

But it now means the fans will see the two top names on the UK grappling
scene, Williams and Robbie Brookside, both in action for the price of a
1987 ticket.

Every seat in the arena costs just £3.50 to mark the occasion when the
first show presented by John Freemantle, of Premier Promotions, was
staged at the Hove Town Hall 21 years ago.

He explained: “This is fantastic news. Doug, who has made more than 100
appearances for Premier Promotions, was the missing link on the show
because he is currently wrestling in Japan.

“But he e-mailed me this week to say he was cutting short his latest
tour of Japan and would be back in the country in time to appear on the
show.”

Among the other stars in action will be the British heavyweight
title-holder Martin Stone, 20st-plus Scottish giant Drew McDonald and
“Wonder Kid” Jonny Storm.

The line-up will also include ring legends Johnny Kidd and Brian
“Goldbelt” Maxine, local favourite Barry Cooper and the Young Wrestler
of the Year Joel Redman, while the specially appointed referee will be
the former world champion Steve Grey.

The Sunday afternoon show starts at 3.0. Tickets are available in person
from the Brighton or Hove Centre box offices, by telephone on 0844 847
1515 or on line via the Brighton Centre website.

Legends Showdown 2 - Final Card

Legends Showdown II
Saturday 29th November
Thurrock Civic Hall, Grays.
Doors 6pm, Bell time 7pm

Event card
Danny Boy Collins vs. Johnny Saint
Johnny Kincaid vs. Jon Ritchie
Johnny Kidd's last TV bout
Plus LDN Spirit rules 2008: Danny Garnell vs. David Deville

Plus Kendo Nagasaki, Yorghos and more.

Plus special appearences from Tony Banger Walsh, Wayne Bridges, Joe Dirachio, Bob Antony, Neil Sands and many more.

Tickets are selling fast, don't delay and call now.

Tickets: £30 ringside, £12 general admission, £35 family
Box office: 0871 220 0260

Bangers New Career?

World of Sport star Tony "Banger" Walsh sent us this pic of him and his lovely wife with Stricly come Dancing stars Erin Bogue and Anton Du Bec. Could it be that the former grappler who now runs a successful security company called Mayfair Security be branching out into the dancing game?

New Pic Album

We have added a new page to the Photo Galleries, this Album will feature plenty of pictures of the biggest names in wrestling out of the ring. The first picture added to this album has been donated by Banger Walsh and features Yasu Fuji, Pat Roach and Banger enjoying some down time on the beach in Italy while on tour! If anyone has any pictures they wish to add to this section, old or new welcome, then please just email them along to us at wrestlersreunion@live.co.uk

Premier 21st Birthday!

THE BEST TICKET IN BRITISH WRESTLING!

Wrestling fans can forget about the recession, credit crunch or whatever else is ailing the country at the moment. The 1987 show is coming.

Well, not exactly the 1987 show, but the big 2008 show at 1987 prices!

Premier Promotions will be throwing open the doors at the Hove Centre on December 7 for a one-off ticket price of £3.50 to mark the 21st anniversary of promoter John Freemantle’s first-ever show.

He explained: “I ran my very first show at the Hove Centre, when it was called Hove Town Hall, in December 1987, and this is my way of saying thank you to the fans who have supported me over the last 21 years, and perhaps some new ones who would like to see what it is all about.”

The Sunday afternoon show, featuring many of the top names associated with Premier Promotions, will start at 3pm. Box office for tickets: 0844 847 1515.

FOR MORE news of Premier Promotions, go to www.premier-promotions.co.uk.

********************************************
Yours truly will be in action, managing Martin Stone as he takes on former heavyweight champion Phil 'Flash' Barker, coming out of retirement for one match only.

Tickets can be bought online at http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/venue/255121 but I will have some with me ahead of time which you can purchase and avoid the booking fees that Ticketmaster charge.

Dean Ayass

New Forum

If you use our forum page then please note that we have a new and improved forum which will allow you to manage your own online profile with us. Please stop using the old forum as i will be deleting this in the coming weeks, once the discussions already on there have ran there course.

Many thanks for your continued support

Leah Maivia Passes Away

Leah Maivia who was the late great High Chief Peter Maivia's wife passed away on the 19th October at the age of 81. Mrs Maivia began promoting professional wrestling with her husband in 1979 and when he passed away in 1982 she took over the running of the company herself until it closed in 1988. As many of you know, the High Chief was a regular fixture in British rings during his career and his wife was always a supporter of the British lads. In later years she looked on with great pride as her grandson stepped into the ring and became one of the biggest stars of the sport, The Rock. She was a true pioneer in the business for women and Wayne Bridges and the reunion would like to extend its condolences to the family and friends of Mrs Maivia including Rocky Johnson, Ata Johnson and her grandson Dwayne.

Bob Bell Home

Bob Bell is finally home from the hospital and recovering well. The reunion and all the southern wrestlers would like to extend its best wishes to Bob and hope for a speedy recovery! Wayne Bridges said that he can't wait for Bob to get better so that he can get his boots on to face him in the ring!!!

Page Restructure

Those of you with a keen eye may have noticed that the page order has been changed at the top, and whats more, there is a new page! This is a Wrestlers Reunion shop page which will be regularly updated with new products from ALL aspects of wrestling. There are currently a few items on there but this will be increased over the coming weeks. We will be selling all kinds of merchandise via the site and being the non profit organisation that we are rely on donations of Merchandise to sell! Any wrestling related items that ANYONE in wrestling wishes to sell will be sold via the site with a minimum donation of 10% being taken from the sale value for the reunion funds, however if you wish to donate the whole amount or even any amount then it will of course be greatfully received.

For our part, we will be contacting several of the UK's top promotions and getting as many products as humanly possible over the coming weeks so keep checking back regularly for updates.

Thunder Retains in Germany

Current EWP World Heavyweight Champion Darren Walsh better know to Wrestling fans around the world as Thunder successfully defended his Title in Hannover Germany this past weekend against former WWE Star Orlando Jordan. Thunder, son of British Wrestling legend Banger Walsh, has been travelling the world defending his title against the top heavyweights on the planet. Other stars on this tour of Germany include Kip James, Doug Williams, Rob Brookside aswell as a whole host of talent from around the world.

Keith Peach Dead

Amatuer wrestler Keith Peach died recently of a massive heart attack following a holiday in Spain. He was well known within the wrestling community as many professional wrestlers would often have a "tug" about with Keith in the gym to ensure that there skills remained sharp. Although Keith never entered the Professional ranks of his own choice, many professionals of the time were glad that Keith was on hand to help them with there gruelling training. Wayne Bridges added that Keith was a tremendous straight wrestler and would be greatly missed.

LDN Legends Showdown II

Last year, the stars of world of sport came back out of retirement in front of jam packed near sold out Broxbourne Civic Hall. On a historic night that saw Johnny Saint defeat Johnny Kidd in what many are calling the technical match of the decade now will happen again but for the final time.

On Saturday 29^th November at the Thurrock Civic Hall in Grays, LDN Wrestling presents Legends Showdown II. The event will mark the retirement of 30 year veteran, the 2007 Golden Grappler Johnny Kidd.

Johnny Saint returns to the ring after a spectacular performance last year with his opponent rumoured to be former West Country resident.

Johnny Kincaid steps out of retirement this year for a one off special bout and finally one of the stars of yesterday now the stars of today the legendary samurai superstar Kendo Nagasaki will be at the Showdown!

Bob Antony, Bobby Stafford and LDN’s head referee Chris Roberts will lead the line off the officials for the event.

Legends Showdown II takes places on Saturday 29^th November at the Civic Hall in Grays. Tickets are priced £30 ringside, £15 silver seating and £12 General ticket. Family ticket costs £35. Doors open at 6.15pm with the first bell at 7pm. Tickets are available from 0871 220 0260.

Team World of Sport to Germany

British Wrestling Legends Robbie Brookside and Johnny Kidd will be representing World Of Sport in an international tag team tournament in the Chikara Tag World Grand Prix to be held on the 8th and 9th of November at the T Club in Oberhausen, Germany. Other Brits scheduled to appear at the WXW Event include current Tag Champions Martin Stone and Doug Williams, Zack Sabre Jnr, Judge Jimmie James, Kid Fite and the legendary Johnny Saint who is taking on Chikara founder Mike Quakenbush.

For more information on this event check out www.chikarapro.com

Bob Bell in Hospital

Professional Wrestler Bob Bell has recently had a severe stroke and is currently recovering in Hospital. The reunion committee wish Bob a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming him back to next years reunion! All messages of support for Bob can be sent to his son Jay at jay.bell0@talk21.com

Frank Rimer retires

3rd September 2008

(British Strongman Show 2008)

( Just seventeen in 1961)

(Johnny Yearsley on holiday aged 42)

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I was just 11 years old when the late great Johnny Yearsley saved me from drowning in my local lido, and enrolled me in my first amateur wrestling club called the Viking AWC in Plumstead, which boasted a certain Wayne Bridges as a fellow member. Since then, 53 years have whizzed by during which time I have been everything from a Physical Culturist,to a P.E. Instructor, High Board Diver, Pro Wrestler, Referee, M.C. Commentator,Promoter, Trainer, Writer, Webmaster, uncle tom cobbly and all !! Never really excelling in any of them, but enjoying everything I did with a passion that endures to this day.

In 1995, I attended my first Reunion, and in 1997, was asked by Tony Scarlo who has since left the fold some years ago, to assist by building this website, as I had the Dropkixx site,and to write newsletters, plus general assistance running the show with my old pal Wayne Bridges, Joe D'Orazio and Bobby Stafford. At that time, we attracted around 100 regular members,and this year, 11 years later, we welcomed at least 450 supporters to the function, not to mention all those that could not attend for one reason or another.

Although not yet quite senile, I have now decided to retire from active wrestling and the Reunion (apart from selected functions), to write a book, tend my allotment and gardens, and go sea fishing, which I think means that I am becoming elderly !!

It has been an honour and a privilige to serve the Reunion, where I have made and retained many new enduring friendships, but I feel that it is time to move over and let the young have their day, as we had ours.

My good friend and colleague: Martin Berry will take over from me with immediate effect . Martin wrestles as Rocker Richards and is very well known in modern wrestling circles, having worked for all the leading Promoters of the day. He is articulate and educated to degree level, bringing a fresh and exciting voice to the wrestling arena. I know without asking that you will welcome him and give him your support as you did me.

Thank you to all my supporters, colleagues and friends that have helped make the Wrestlers Reunion such a great fraternity, and I look forward to seeing you all at the Reunion next year as a guest only, with time for a chat and a drink !!

God Bless and happy wrestling

Frank Rimer

( Martin Berry)

Wrestling Legend Passes Away

Walter "Killer" Kowalski passed away on Saturday night at the age of 81. He had been in a coma for some time following a heart attack at the start of August.

Kowalski began his wrestling career in 1947 and for the next 30 years competed around the world. His enormous physique made him an instant success and his relentless attack of his opponents gave him the nick name of Killer! In one infamous match from 1954 he ripped off the ear of his opponent Yukon Eric.

During the 60's and 70's he performed for the World Wrestling Federation in both singles and tag team matches teaming with Gorilla Monsoon. His fueds with Bruno Samartino at the time are legendary and sold out arenas across the east coast of the USA.

In 1977 after hanging up his boots Kowalski opened up his very own wrestling academy to train the stars of the future and over the next 30 years turned out some of the biggest stars in the business including Perry Saturn, Big John Studd, Chyna, Kaz, April Hunter and perhaps the most famous of them all HHH. In 1996 for his services to wrestling he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by his most famous pupil.

All at the British Wrestlers Reunion would like to offer there condolences to his family and friends.

Information courtesy of WWE.COM

BOB WALSH loses cancer fight

21st August 2008

We have learnt today that the great shooter and Professional wrestler : BOB WALSH has lost an amazing fight against cancer. He died peacefully yesterday a.m., having fought with steak and chips as his typical answer to the threat . Bob was a product of the legendary snake pit in Wigan during the halycon days of Ernie and Billy Riley, Billy Joyce etc.. and his like will not be seen again. BOB WALSH will be remembered as the ultimate grappler, and his name will now be placed in the dressing room in the sky, where he will rest with the other immortals that have gone before him.

Thanks to Hack of the Riot Squad, for giving us this sad news and we print herewith the official obituary, received tonight

It is with much sadness that we report the death of Tommy Walsh during the early hours of Monday 18th August, 2008. Tommy, known to wrestling fans as Bob, had bravely fought the effects of cancer for some time. He was sixty years old.

He was a graduate of Wigan’s Snakepit and one of the last Mountevans style wrestlers to quite literally rub shoulders with legends such as Billy Joyce, Jack Dempsey and Billy Riley. This trio of old masters were instrumental in training a young Tom Walsh who had turned up at the Whelley gymnasium demanding that they teach him to wrestle. Teach him they did, and Tom was one of the minority who returned time and again to learn more about his chosen sport. Heavyweight champion Billy Joyce took to the youngster and arranged a daily 3.45 pm rendezvous at the gym for his next lesson in wrestling, the Wigan style. Others that had an influence were fellow Wigan masters Jack Fallon, Roy Wood, Jack Cheers and Ernie Riley. In the early days the grand master himself, Billy Riley, would sit in the corner offering advice whenever he thought it necessary, which seemed to be quite often. Joyce prepared Walsh for his professional debut, but so keen was the newcomer that on Sunday mornings he would travel to Ted Beckley’s gym in Warrington for an extra pull-around with the likes of Bernie Wright and Davey Boy Smith. Having turned professional he adopted the name Bob and wrestled for both Joint Promotions and the independents, with opponents including Honey Boy Zimba, Sid Cooper, Bert Royal and John Naylor. It was Naylor in the opposite corner when he made his only television appearance, narrowly losing by the odd fall. A technician at the start Bob soon learned to mix it and a harder-edge found him often the object of fan’s abuse. Although he gained regular bookings throughout his career Bob Walsh came to wrestling late in life at a time when the sport was in decline and there were fewer opportunities for newcomers to the business.

The funeral service will take place at St Benedicts Church, Hindley on Tuesday 26th August at 1.00pm. A tribute to Bob Walsh is planned for the Tuesday edition of the Wigan Observer.

Tommy left a wife, Elaine, and children including John, who has informed us of his father’s sad passing.

HARRY DIGBY DIES

19th August 2008

It is with great sadness that we must announce the death of that great grappler : HARRY DIGBY, following a short illness.

Harry was a fervent supporter of the Reunion and will be greatly missed, as he takes his rightful place with the other immortals in the dressing room in the sky.

Letter from Colin Joynson

15th August 2008

The following letter was received today by committee members Bill and Sarah who requested that it be put online for all to see as it touched them so much.

Dear Bill, Sarah and All people involved in organising the Wrestlers Reunion,

We are writing to say A BIG THANKYOU for all the hardwork and effort you put in to make it a fantastic day. Also, there is a God, the weather was brilliant!!

You all deserve a big pat on the back and more.

Lots of Love, Colin and Helen Joynson.

Reunion -August 10th

25th July 2008

(Bob Kirkwood, Killer Kowalski, Pete Roberts, Johnny Kincaid)

(

( Hardboiled Hagerty, Mel Stuart, Neil Sands, Bob Kirkwood, John Kenny )

Only two weeks to go now until wrestlings big day of the year folks. We have an awesome line-up of guests expected, from the greatest stars of yesteryear, such as JON CORTEZ, BOBBY BARNES, JOHNNY KINCAID, BANGER WALSH, DAVE PROWSE M.B.E., RINGO RIGBY, STEVE GREY, MAL SANDERS, SPENCER CHURCHILL,DAVE PHILIPS, MEL STUART, MICK MCMANUS, ALAN SARGEANT, , PRINCE KUMALI, JOE D'ORAZIO, WAYNE BRIDGES, GOLDBELT MAXINE, JOHN HURLEY, KARL HEINZ, COLIN JOYNSON, JOHNNY SAINT, KURT HEINZ, ROMANY RILEY, LEE BRONSON, PETER SZAKACS, LLOYD RYAN, PAUL LINCOLN, STEVE VEIDOR, PETE ROBERTS, ROY ST CLAIR, IAN MUIR, KALMON GASTON, JOHN COX,CHICK LINTON, KILLER KOWALSKI, SONNY COLINDAS, MICK MCMICHAEL, through to more modern giants like RICKY KNIGHT, SWEET SORAYA, KLONDYKE KATE, BLONDIE BARRATT, JOHNNY KIDD, JON RITCHIE, JUSTIN RICHARDS, and on to todays stars : MARTIN STONE, DOUG WILLIAMS ,YORGHOS CRISTOPOLOUS, STUART KNIGHT, NICK ALDIS, MARTY SCURLL, ASHE, JASON CROSS, TERRY FRAZIER, SHA SAMUELS, LEROY KINCAID, DANNY GARNELL, ROCKER RICHARDS, plus many many more too numerous to mention. We also hope that the great ORIG WILLIAMS will join us, and we expect to welcome the families of the late great JOHNNY KWANGO and 'ROMEO' JOE CRITCHLEY, The French Reunion have intimated that BOB PLANTIN and RENE BEN CHEMOUL, plus Swiss legend : RENE LASARTESSE will travel over, to celebrate Britains great day. The training schools like DROPKIXX, , BEST OF BRITISH WRESTLING, and LDN will close in order that the young aspiring student wrestlers can also join us.

The Reunion has grown beyond all expectations to become the largest and greatest wrestling event in all Europe, featuring the biggest gathering of truly legendary grappling and allied stars in the U.K. at any one time, and second only to the legendary Cauliflower Alley Club in Las vegas. If last years figures are a guide, we can look forward to at least 450 enthusiasts , and we are still growing !! Fans will travel from faraway places such as Tokyo, Japan, Belgium, Spain, Canary Islands, Scotland, Wales, and from all over the U.K. for the gathering, and we even hope to welcome a few U.S. and Canadian wrestlers who are on tour her.

One of the most heartwarming things to note is the steadily increasing numbers of young wrestlers, and we intend to honour some of these athletes this

year. It is really importent that the stars of today adopt the Reunion as their own , and put their mark upon it.

(2003 Reunion- Stixx, Martin Stone, Ashe, Sha Samuels, Rich n Fanous, Abi Shane, Skye, and other young wrestlers, Mel Stuart, Goldbelt Maxine.

Joey Scarlo, Ted Gordienko, Titch White, Brian Dixon, Colin Joynson, Frank Rimer, Johnny Peters, Stefan Milla, and more))

We are being filmed for Sky TV's Fight Channel this year, and really hope that you will all join us from 10.00 a.m. on August 10th . For those of you who have not received an invitation, please treat the attached scan as our personal invite to you .Directions and details are on the flyer.

Remember folks, that it is all FREE. So come along and join the fun. You will not get another chance to mingle with so many legends !!!

(1998 Reunion- Prince Kumali, Jackie Pallo, Steve Veidor, Eddie Capelli, Wayne Bridges, Johnny Kincaid, Kent Walton )

French Reunion

21st July 2008

Historian : RAY PLUNKETT has tonight emailed these photos from the French reunion together with a list of names.

Incidentally, Ray is to be honoured at this years reunion for all the voluntary work that he puts in compiling records of results and matches spanning the whole careers of some of the top grapplers ever seen in the U.K. His poster collection which he photographs for our web site is phenominal, and numbers thousands. We would not like to even try and count the hundreds of hours that he and his lovely partner : Wendy, have spent, undertaking these mammoth tasks and there is nothing too much trouble for this ardent wrestling devotee.

Photos . Allary Michel . Bruno Asquini / Bob Plantin . René Ben Chemoul .

Chéri Bibi / Eric Husberg . Bob Rémy / André Bollet .

Autres photos plus tard . Merci pour votre envoi . Amicalement . Bob Plantin
Photos . Allary Michel . Bruno Asquini / Bob Plantin . René Ben Chemoul .

Chéri Bibi / Eric Husberg . Bob Rémy / André Bollet .

Autres photos plus tard . Merci pour votre envoi . Amicalement . Bob Plantin

( Don't ask who is who !!! )

STEVE KELLY fighting cancer

21st July 2008

We are saddened to inform you that 80's star : STEVE KELLY who is Son of the late lamented lightweight legend : PETER KELLY is battling cancer. There are no other details, but the whole Reunion will want to wish him well during his epic bout against this condition. Our feelings also go out to his beloved Mother and family.

BOB BELL in coma

21st July 2008

BOB BELL, who together with his devoted wife, is the mastermind behind the fabulous 'Good Old Boys' Northern Reunion, is tonight seriously ill in a coma, and fighting for his life, having suffered a major heart attack last week.

His life has been dogged with health problems since contracting cancer, and he has bravely undertaken many operations to thwart this terrible disease that seems to claim so many of the boys.

Tonight, there was a glimmer of hope however when great fighter : Bob responded to a hand squeeze, and we know that everyone in the wrestling Business will undoubtedly pray for his recovery.

Great veteran and former partner in the Reunion : MONTY SWANN has sent his best wishes from his home west of Aberdeen. Messages have been coming in all day in recognition of the bravery of Bob.

get well soon Bob, for the sake of the wrestling Business, and your family.

Message from PETER BAINES re MARGARET

21ST July 2008

TO ALL OUR FRIENDS

Please excuse the impersonal approach of this "E" mail, which I am sending out to many folk, (including myself, so that I can print it and send hard copies by post to many others.

Thank you for your cards and letters, you have all been so kind, sympathetic, and so full of kind remarks about Margaret. It was obvious from these remarks that she was held in high esteem, and loved by all.

Thanks also to all of you who contributed to "Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland" in her memory, I will forward the cheques to the Association in due course.

There are so many of you, that it would take me weeks or months to write to everyone, and which paper could one place a thank you notice to cover you from all parts of the U. K. so I have had to resort to this plan.

It was a beautiful service, on an equally beautiful day. The Minister was so kind and read a Eulogy that I had prepared, outlining her life from a child, up to, and covering her illness and departure, A kind of 'potted' history of Margaret. So many people who were at the service have said that they knew Margaret, but now they knew more of her and what we meant to each other.

Margaret had made many friends during her life in Scotland and this was obvious by the number of people present on the day.

It sounds strange to say, but I enjoyed making the arrangements for her funeral, I wanted everything to be perfect for her, and it was, and while I was planning things, and doing things, to a certain extent it took my mind off who I was doing it for. I hope that makes sense, ----- it does to me.

In a few weeks time I will be taking the caravan and Margaret down south, where I will meet the two remaining evacuees, ( those of you at the service will know what I mean) and her ashes will be scattered in the Savernake Forest in Wiltshire, where she spent part of her childhood.

Naturally we argued, we swore at one another, but it never lasted long, frequently it was over in seconds (I knew when I was beat)

She was great support to me all my life, and I will miss greatly, but as I have said to show business friends, "The show must go on, & it's business as usual.

Thank you once again

with kindest regards

Peter

Peter Baines loses wife

11th July 2008

Legendary M.C. and celebrated toastmaster : PETER BAINES has informed us that his beloved wife of many years : MARGARET BAINES has passed away peacefully, while in Hospital having routine tests.

Peter has been a stalwart of the Wrestlers Reunion since its inception, and never misses a visit to our events. Margaret and he always flew down from their home in Scotland, bringing with them a magnum of the finest champagne for the hosts: WAYNE AND SARAH BRIDGES. He has been at the forefront of professional wrestling since the sixties, working with all the great Promoters, with his distinctive beautiful speaking voice, ranking him up there with all the greats such as JOHN HARRIS, FRANKIE BLAKE,RAYMOND MILLER,GEORGE LAWSON-PEAKE, BOBBY PALMER, ETC..

( Founder and Life President Joe D'Orazio, Mick McManus and Peter Baines at the 2007 Reunion )

Of course dear Margaret who was a regular visitor to the shows and never missed a Reunion either, became good friends with many of our members who will be shocked and devastated at the news.

The couple had intended this years trip to be a special holiday for them both, and had booked a romantic London Hotel for a few days leave centred around the Reunion, where he is due to share announcing duties as he has done so brilliantly for the last few years.

Peter says that although he is inconsolable, Margaret would have wanted him to fulfil his obligations to the Reunion, and will therefore make an appearance as originally arranged.

There are no words to express the sadness we share with Peter today, and look forward to seeing him on the 10th , where we trust that all our members will show restraint and tact under the circumstances, acknowledging his courage , when listening to this true maestro of the microphone.

Ricky Cortez dead

9th July 2008

The world of wrestling is shocked to learn of the premature death of young flyer : Ricky Cortez , following an ongoing health problem. He was only 38 years old, and this tragedy follows in the footsteps of his Mothers death just two weeks ago.

Ricky who was the Son of the late great Dave George, had established an enviable reputation as a very agile flyer who had worked with the cream of British Wrestling. men such as Steve Grey, Mal Sanders, Mel Stuart etc.. His main career was spent working for Brian Minelli's Phoenix Promotions, where he was extremely well known on the holiday camp circuit.

U.K. Strongest Man Show

28th June 2008

( Judge Steve Winters a former Strongest Man in Britain and world No2 with Barry Saunders who is a Bodybuilding and strength Champion).

Tomorrow sees the next qualifiers to find the U.K.'s Strongest Man with over 30 c0ntestants lined up to battle it out at the legendary MINISTRY OF MUSCLE GYM in Aylesford Kent, at the Mill Hall Trading Estate, next to the Station. Activities kick off at 11.00 a.m. and will be hosted by the former Strongest Man in Britain : STEVE WINTERS and his lovely wife,former ladies rugby star: GINA WINTERS. Guests will include the reigning Champion JAY HUGHES and a visit is promised from Miss Great Britain :SARAH BRIDGES, who will be on hand to give advice and diet info.. etc.. Other guests will include BARRY and KAREN SAUNDERS, body building Champions and myself : FRANK RIMER has the distinction of acting as master of ceremonies and commentator

refreshments will be available, and there will be a raffle and bouncy castle for the kids.

This fast growing and immensely popular sport will feature some of the Strongest men in the Country all performing gladiatorial feats and it is not to be missed.

Here are some shots from the May qualifiers.

Mikey Sharpe dies

27th June 2008

We are very sad to report the untimely and sudden death of young up and coming wrestler : MIKEY SHARPE who was just 18 years old. Mikey was a student of the dropkixx Academy and had enjoyed inaugeral bouts in and around Tottenham , London, where he trained.

The Reunion extends sincerest condolences to his bereaved family, particularly as Mikey was so young. We shall enrol him to the dressing room in the sky, where his persona shall live for ever in the annals of wrestling.

Who is the scariest ??

14th June 2008

The legendary world of sport grappler : TONY 'BANGER' WALSH , who is now recognised as a talented and much requested after dinner speaker, has sent us these photos taken recently . One depicts the fearsome former World Boxing Champion : MIKE TYSON during his recent British visit, and Tony Walsh, and the others are of younger Son: Adam and Mike Tyson, plus eldest Son : Darren ( Thunder) and long standing family friend : ADAM WOODYATE otherwise known as IAN BEALE of Eastender fame. Adam has been a stalwart of the hit series for twenty incredible years. Banger, who has recently a best seller book, and is head of a very successful security Company called Diamond Security, keeps active since his wrestling heydays, with many charity functions etc., but retains an avid interest in the grapple game, and is never prouder than when he is watching his Son : DARREN WALSH in action who is known the world over as the mighty THUNDER.

The Reunion Organisers looks forward to seeing Banger and family,on August 10th at the reunion.

Dave Rocky Taylor in U.K.

13th June 2008

U.S.A. based British wrestling phenomenom : Dave 'Rocky' Taylor is back on home shores and doing the rounds for Brian Dixon's All Star promotions. Dave who is the Son of the immortal late great Eric Taylor, and Grandson of Olympic Champion : Joe Taylor, comes from a bevy of wrestling stars with his brothers,niece and nephew all achieving Championship status. Rocky now lives near Atlanta, Georgia, where he settled in Peach Tree City, together with his grappling buddies from the former WCW before it became integrated with the WWE , such as Blackpool's own William Regal (pictured here with dave) , Irish star and Smackdown supremo : Dave 'Fit' Finlay, and the late lamented and vey troubled star : Chris Benoit, with whom Dave Taylor became World Tag Team Champions.

Condolences

11th June 2008

The Reunion Committee would like to offer their sincerest condolences to both the great PETER SZAKACS on the sad loss of his beloved wife, and also to the legendary and most loved KLONDYKE KATE for the sudden death of her dear Mother this week.

Peter who was honoured with a life achievement award last year, has always been a strong family man, and having lost his famous brother : TIBOR SZAKACS back in the early eighties, has now been dealt a double blow by losing his wife to whom he was devoted.

Kate, who was also honoured last year similarly, and has just retired from professional wrestling after 30 glorious years, to devote more time to her growing family, was devastated to lose her best friend: her Mother, as it was unexpected . Kate ( Jayne) has returned to the North from her home in Weymouth, to be near immediate family.

McManus for Kent show

27th May 2008

( Mick McManus holds aloft the arm of the late great Steve Logan )

To celebrate LDN Promotions 100th TV outing, Britain's most legendary wrestling figure of all time: Mick McManus will make a rare personal appearance at the TV wrestling spectacular booked for Saturday, June 7th at the Paddock Wood Hop Farm, which is a superb new venue twixt Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone.

Alongside Mick will be appearances from Wayne Bridges, Sarah Bridges, Tom Tyrone, Mickey West, Brian Minelli, Steve Minelli, Johnny Riley, Tony 'Titch' White, Billy La Rue, Mel Stuart, Alan Kitto, The Viking, Basil 'Romany' Riley, plus many more. There will also be a visit from the former World No2 strongman : Steve Winters,and Britains no1 strongman : Jay Hughes

The bill will feature the great veteran of British grappling : Brian 'Goldbelt' Maxine, Barry Cooper, Danny Garnell, Jon Ritchie, WWE new boy: Leroy Kincaid, Johnny Kidd, Yorghos Christopolous, Chris Wyld, David de Ville, Alan Lee Travis, plus officials : Bobby Stafford, Chris Roberts, Ted Fretwell, and myself : Frank Rimer as M.C.

Doors open at 6.30 pm.and the show starts at 7.30 P.M. Advance tickets can be purchased from the box office 01622 872068

The whole event is being filmed for TV , and will be screened by Sky TV's Fight Channel

Strong man show in Aylesford

31st may 2008

I have the honour to have been invited to commentate at the forthcoming U.K. Strong Man show this Sunday the 1st June 2008 at the famous Ministry of Muscle gym in Aylesford, near Maidstone, Kent.

Former World Wrestling Champion : Wayne Bridges and Miss Sarah Bridges ( Miss great Britain) will be in attendance as will former

No2 Strongest man in the world: Steve Winters.

Competing will be the mighty strong man , defending Champion and budding wrestler :Jay Hughes who is in the nationals net week.

Everyone who has an interest in this fast growing phenomenom is welcome at 12.00 noon ( Entrance free) ( Start them young !!!)

http://ministryofmusclegym.com

Northern Good Old Boys Reunion success

27th May2008

Many wrestlers from the past braved the diabolical weather on Sunday last to attend the Northern wrestlers Reunion in Ellesmere Port at the usual working mens club venue. The conversation sparkled and the food was in abundance as the girls in the form of Klondyke Kate ( celebrating her imminent retirement with flowers and champagne), Wendy Mellor (Streigers widow), Mitzi Mueller, and Leather Lena, joined forces with the boys for a nostalgic afternoon.

here are some photos of the day.

NAGASAKI is back

25th May 2008

The enigmatic and mysterious figure that is KENDO NAGASAKI returned to the ring at Thurrock Civic Hall, Grays in Essex last week , to demolish his opponent in just a few minutes.

Legendary masked man: Nagasaki has lost none of his menace and look awesomely fit as he destroyed the young pretender both in amnd out of the ring. Promoter : Sanjay Bagga who runs LDN Capital wrestling, said " I was worried that Kendo couldn't handle the wrestling after a long lay off, but he just done the job without effort. I can't wait to see the bout again on Sky TV's Fight Channel in a couple of weeks "

Here is a clip of the match. Just click the middle to view.

Naggers, as he is known to his wrestling colleagues, is currently being booked to appear again at the legends show 2008, also scheduled for Grays, in the company of Johnny Saint, Mel Stuart and Johnny Kincaid plus many others.

Ezra Francis dead

15th May 2008

Ezra Francis,also known as "Sugar Ray Do-Do"and "the Withdoctor"died on 8th of April 08.A very colorful character,full of charm,and hugely liked and respected on the Manchester scene. We thank Tony Francis for this sad report and as usual, The Reunion members all extend their condolences to the family.

GORDON RENTON dies

8th May 2008

We are saddened to learn of the death of Northern star : Farmers Boy- GORDON RENTON last weekend. Gordon was a great old trouper who worked with the best of the bunch including GIANT HAYSTACKS and the suchlike. He was well respected and very popular among the Northern audiences, and will be sadly missed. We will always treasure his input to our great Business. May he rest in peace and our thoughts as always to his family in their time of grief. his name will live on in the annals of wrestling and has been added to the ever growing list as he takes his place in the 'dressing room in the sky'

ROY PARKES and CARL DANE

28th April 2008

We have received two poignant photos from LUKE PARKES, the Grandson of the late lamented star : MR BIG, better known as ROY PARKES. The stricken star fought a courageous and dignified battle against cancer but the final bell tolled for the big man, who has now taken his place in the great dressing room in the sky.

The Reunion is also sad to report the recent death of yet another great gladiator : CARL DANE ,who sometimes wrestled as the OUTLAW . (not to be confused with Gordon Nelson) . Carl was a very popular figure around the halls and we await a photo from his family, in tribute to the legend that he was. Our thoughts are with both families at this terrible time of grieving.

They will not be forgotten however, and are recorded in the annals of fame here at the Reunion forever.

'Superstar' MAL SANDERS and STEVE GREY RETIRE

10th April 2008

(Mal Sanders in action against James Mason)

Veteran World of Sport television favourite: MAL SANDERS has finally hung up his golden boots at the age of just 50 years, having suffered considerable recurring spine and knee injuries.

Mal headlined a star studded show for John Freemantle's Premier Promotions in Haywards Heath as his last outing, personally chosen as his retirement venue because he lives locally and it gave his legions of friends and fans a chance to see the great grappler in action for the last time. Many old time wrestlers were among the sell out audience to see their hero taking the bumps for the last time, including 'Bullyboy' IAN MUIR, LEE BRONSON, MEL STUART, 'Cyanide' SID COOPER and of course the great STEVE GREY himself, who was originally booked to wrestle Mal, but was unable to appear through a similar spinal injury.

Wrestling may be a great sporting entertainment, but the injury toll on hips and spines amongst the boys is endless.

Although still young, Mal surprisingly has been a professional in excess of thirty years, appearing on TV so many times that he has lost count. The former European Champion has worked with every well known wrestler in the U.K. but lists his arch opponent and friend : STEVE GREY as his hardest and favourite .

Away from the ring, Mal is heavily involved with Age Concern looking after the needs of the elderly. His Son is an aspiring footballer, and the legendary mat -man takes every opportunity to watch his boy from the touchline.

Last year, The Wrestlers Reunion Committee honoured Sanders with a life achievement award for his services to wrestling, and he will be sorely missed in the Business as one of last great ring generals of our time.

( Steve grey in action against Charlie Rage)

STEVE GREY who has the distinction of holding the British, European and World belts as a Professional wrestler in two weight classes, has also sadly announced his own retirement from active wrestling, for the same reasons as MAL SANDERS. He suffered a serious injury to his lower back in the latter part of 2007 and was forced to miss the scheduled bout on the Legends show against JOHNNY SAINT, and six months later, shows no sign of recovery. Steve is one of the U.K.'s most enduring and popular stars having worked the business non-stop for 37 years. He has appeared on TV more times than other other wrestler, and still thrills the audiences with his breath taking speed and agility.

Outside the arena, he also works in the care industry, helping people with learning diffuculties. Steve is also a highly skilled cabinet maker. Renouned for his good grace and charming manners, Grey was also honoured recently by the Wrestlers Reunion with a life achievement award for his services to wrestling. Naturally enough, when asked who his favourite opponent is,he answers MAL SANDERS who else ??

Much to the delight of his many admirers however, Steve does intend to act as referee on selected shows,health permitting, following in the footsteps of his illustrious father : the late great FREDDIE GREEN

SARAH BRIDGES

9th April 2008

For those of you who have never seen our beloved Committee member and Treasurer : Sarah Bridges in action, here is a clip of her taking the audience by storm during her American Tour for our site sponsors on the Jan Tana show in 2007. Sarah who is Miss Great Britain, is now officially the largest female body builder on earth, and is guided in her successful career, by hubby and our own former World Champion : Wayne Bridges

.(click to play and make sure your sound is on !)

If that is not exciting enough, then here is a further clip of our National Treasure,in her latest movie role with Nick Nolte called 'The Good Thief''

For anyone interested in body building or strong man training, please see the advert page for our sponsors and or go to the link below for 'Ministry of Muscle' in Aylesford Kent, where Sarah and Wayne train. A warm welcome awaits you, whatever your level. The gym is owned and run by Steve Winters who mwas Britains Strongest man and runner up to the great Geoff Capes in the Worlds strongest man competition.

www.ministryofmuscle.co.uk

Jon Cortez for Award at Reunion

2nd April 2008

( Jon Cortez and Alan Denison)

The legendary lightweight phenomenom JON CORTEZ , who is regarded by fans and wrestlers alike as probably the one of the finest exponents of technical wrestling ever seen in a British ring, has agreed to travel from his Gloucestershire home to the Southern Reunion on August the 10th to receive a life time acheivement award for his immeasurable services to Professional wrestling.

Jon together with his late brother: PETER CORTEZ was responsible for putting tag matches on the U.K. map in the sixties and his sense of purpose, timing, and ring craft was second to none. Always the consummate professional, he was one of the only grapplers along with the likes of JOHNNY SAINT ,plus old friend and adversary : AL MIQUET, that other wrestlers would come out of their dressing rooms to watch.

Jon, who hasn't attended the reunion since his brother's tragic death from a brain tumour four years ago, and although a little grey these days, still retains the awesome fitness look that was his trademark, and everyone at the Reunion is looking forward to making this living legend welcome on the day.

Yorghos Cristopolous takes LDN British title

The very popular Anglo Greek Champion : YORGHOS CRISTOPOLOUS took the LDN British Light heavyweight title from former holder JON RITCHIE in a thrilling match during the recent legends show on Sky TV's Fight Channel 427.

Yorghos who forsook his native Country to domocile in England, and serves in the British Territorial Army, said " I am very proud, to just be on the same bill with these great International Legends like JOHNNY KIDD, BRIAN GOLDBELT MAXINE and KENDO NAGASAKI , but to beat JON RITCHIE, for whom I have the utmost respect, is the icing on the cake"

This handsome newcomer is wowing the crowds, especially the ladies and is very reminiscent of KALMAN GASTON . He is destined to go far in this Business.

WAYNE BRIDGES recovering nicely

Wayne bridges underwent a gruelling further seven hour operation just two weeks ago, but is miraculously back home with just a limp. The former World Champ and reunion Host, is walking straighter than ever with just the limp until his nervous system starts working again.

Winnie says that the Doctor in his private room made a mistake on his wrist tags by making him ten years younger on his date of birth. ( He will never take them off again now !! )

He and Sarah have asked that I thank everyone for their messages of support, and says to make sure that you all come along to see him at the Reunion.

Dennis Lord, Les Prest, Earl Black ,Brian Trevors all found

(Brian Trevors and Tony Bates )

The Reunion are thrilled to hear from more old time wrestlers who have come forward following their years of retirement.

DENNIS LORD and LES PREST ( photos to be scanned) from the North were the first and hope to visit the Reunion this year.

They were followed by that great veteran : EARL BLACK ( Wayne says hello) and the wonderful and ever popular wrestler cum promoter : BRIAN TREVORS .

(Earl Black with the tattoos)

Wayne Bridges in Hospital

14th March 2008

( Wayne Bridges demonstrating to youngsters with the Late great Pat Roach at 2003 Reunion )

Former 4 x Heavy weight Champion of the World: and Reunion Host : WAYNE BRIDGES , is back in Hospital today, for a further two hour Operation to his spine , where he will have more discs replaced by donor bones. The six hour Op. that he undertook last Season whereby four discs were replaced worked beautifully, but the nervous system did not return to normal, preventing him from walking upright.

Wayne displayed his usual humour yesterday however by saying " I was always known as Mr. Narcissus in the wrestling Business for making sure my socks were even, and left as Wayne Bridges at 6' 2" and don't like now being Quasimodo at 5' 9" being known as the gnome of Horton Kirby, so I am going under the knife for a face lift, a back lift, and a leg stretch !!"

The modest former super star who counts film legends KIRK DOUGLAS, THE ROCK: DWAYNE JOHNSON and ARNOLD SWARZENEGGER as his friends, remained bashful when asked how he really was feeling. "I am not in any pain, but get annoyed that my posture is not brilliant and can't walk fast without a stick"

Wife :SARAH BRIDGES, who as Miss great Britain, is training for her tour of the USA in May, says that 'Big Winnie' as he is affectionately known will be home in a week or so, then several weeks of convalescence and physiotherapy to coax the nerves back to working order.

One of wrestling's truly nice guys, we all wish him the best for a speedy and full recovery

Incidentally folks, how many of you knew that Wayne , was a world class swimmer in a former life, representing his Country in the Rome Olympics of 1962, where he was ranked third fastest swimmer in the world !!

Mighty John Quinn

14th March 2008

That great giant International wrestler : 'Mighty' John Quinn, who took Britain by storm 20 years ago has sent these photos of himself near his home in Hope Canada, where he runs a successful Bar and Taxi Business.

John rates the U.K. wrestlers as the most skillful and hardest opponents that he ever faced, and wants to visit when he has the time away from his thriving enterprise. Seen here against the mighty backdrop of the beautiful Rocky Mountains in British Columbia where he has lived for most of his life, we can understand why he is reluctant to travel these days. I have had the privilige of going to Hope where John lives, and it is truly magnificent !!

We all want to know how he can look so awesome and young after being retired for 15 years !!! Great to hear from you John.

LDN Legends DVD available

10th March 2008

The long and eagerly awaited 'Legends Showdown' DVD starring the incomparable undefeated Lightweight Champion of the World : JOHNNY SAINT in his first ring outing for 11 years before a sellout audience in Broxbourne Herts. in November last year, is now available . Having obtained my copy, I can tell you it is a real top class DVD from beginning to end and a worthy addition to any collection .

Produced as a TWO DVD box set, this show is a must see, for all true wrestling fans.

Available for a mere £10 plus £2.50 packaging and postage fee, it is real value for money.

The special double disc set also features a documentary on the making of the show.

Apply online to either the producers of the DVD, at their link below, or direct to the Promoter : Sanjay Bagga at Bagga@hotmail.com

http://www.townsend-records.co.uk/ldn+wrestling

Those Reunion fans purchasing this DVD can bring them to the Reunion on August the 10th where the wrestlers involved including Johnny Saint and the legendary Johnny Kidd will sign them for you.

Lenny Hurst for Reunion

9th March 2008

70's superstar : LENNY HURST has been in touch from his home in Florida, to say that he is certain to attend this years Reunion, which will be filmed for Sky TV's Fight Channel . Lenny who is recovering nicely from having a hip operation and recent heart bypass, is training again and fighting fit, looking forward to meeting his many fans and some of his old colleagues and former opponents.

During his hey day, the handsome South Londoner was an awesome shoot (submission) wrestler as well as being a main event Pro. for Dale Martins, making a legion of female fans.

We look forward to making him welcome at this years event.

An apology !!

8th March 2008

I apologise for the lack of news postings over the last four weeks, but having suffered a family bereavement, it has been a difficult and traumatic time. However, things are now returning to normal and I shall be posting new items over the next few days, and am also writing the Spring issue of the newsletter for printing around end March , for those of you who have subscribed this Season. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Frank Rimer

Earl Maynard

8th January 2008

Former Mr Universe and heavyweight wrestling star : Earl Maynard has written from his home in the Caribbean to say that he is 90 % sure to visit the Southern Reunion in August this year.

Earl emigrated to Los Angeles some years ago where he established a mean reputation as a film Producer and Director. He is also a Property magnate with luxury villas to rent throughout the South Seas, but has always kept in touch with his roots in the U.K.

We shall keep you informed if Earl can definitely make the function, as we proceed through the year.

'Farmer' Johnny Allan

Wayne Bridges is delighted to report that the former Northern legend : 'Farmer' Johnny Allan is alive and well and not deceased as shown in our 'Dressing room in the sky' .

Following a chance phone call from Johnny's Son this week with the wonderful news, we are ecstatic that he is still in great shape and health.

Mind you when Wayne received the news, his dry sense of humour kicked in and the immediate joking comment was:- 'He never could lay down and sell for long !!'

Kidding aside, who could forget those days from the sixties and seventies when the legendary Lancashire matman would clash with his opponent from Yorkshire : the indomitable and much loved Eric Taylor. A true 'War of the Roses' epic would ensue, although outside the ring, these gladiators were the best of buddies, showing mutual respect for their respective skills.

Maybe, this year, Johnny would honour the Reunions ; North or South with his great presence.

Happy New Year to you all !!

26th December 2007

HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!

The Reunion Organisers hope that you have all enjoyed a Merry and Peaceful Christmas with your loved ones and would like to wish everyone a joyous and prosperous New Year. Our heartfelt thanks and gratitude is extended to everyone who has supported the Reunion either by attending the functions, subscribing to the newsletters, or just by keeping in touch via this site which incidentally gets over 30,000 hits weekly .May we also congratulate all the Promoters in the U.K. who have gambled their hard earned cash to bring you the public what we all love best : Professional Wrestling !!!

2008 looks to be the most promising year so far in terms of British wrestling with many Halls and Promoters such as the legendary Brian Dixon ,John Freemantle and Ricky Knight reporting audiences in excess of 600, plus following Sanjay Bagga's recent superb legends show, there are two more spectaculars booked for May and November respectively. ( Breaking news says that Johnny Kincaid, Mel Stuart and Tony White will all wrestle again in Company with Johnny Saint and many more, and we shall keep you informed of the news as it breaks. This year we hope to include more up to date news from the current brigade of grappling stars in the U.K. plus maintaining the nostalgia side of the Reunion site bringing you together with your friends and or heroes, in a manner for which we have become accustomed. We have over 200 more posters to be uploaded, and hundreds more action shots from every era. The Hall of Fame page will be extended as we believe that every wrestler deserves such an accolade,, if we had the space and time !! We have more Reunion shots from previous years to load plus a result service for Promoters of modern shows to advertise their own shows, news and results. The older editions of the newsletters will also be available on a seperate page as we go on.

The Reunion itself is a non-profit making event run annually in Kent, and hosted by former World Champion : Wayne Bridges together with the lovely Miss Great Britain : Sarah Bridges, and is self supporting from bar takings which covers the food etc..

This site, the awards,raffle prizes, Christmas cards, invitations,postage, obituary wreaths cards etc., are all funded strictly by the fraternity's kind donations. Towards this end,we publish regular newsletters ( 3 annually) which are 10/12 pages long in full colour with articles from far and wide of all your favourite wrestling stars, and available by subscription only at a cost of just £5 per annum.

If anyone out there wishes to be included in the circulation, please forward a cheque for £5 in favour of ' The BRITISH WRESTLERS REUNION ' to

Wayne and Sarah Bridges

The Bridges Public House,

Horton Road,

Horton Kirby

South Darenth

Kent DA4 9AX

enclosing your full name and address, plus a phone contact or email , all of which will be kept confidential on our database.

If on the other hand, you would care to receive an invitation only for you and your family/friends to the function, which this year is booked for Sunday the 10th August, just forward your details to the above address.

Finally, if anyone wishes to share their wrestling experiences with us either as a fan or as a wrestler, please send it in to us as an email attachment or in writing for the attention of Frank Rimer, and we shall post the same either on this site or as an article in the newsletters.

Thank you

HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!

LEGENDS dvd AND sky TRAILER

Here is the trailer for the eagerly awaited DVD of the Legends Show featuring the return of the great Johnny Saint. These will be available in January from LDN Wrestling, and the Show will air on SKY 427 Fight Channel around March 2008.

We shall print details of where the DVD's can be obtained from nearer the release date.

Bob Moncrief dies

26th December 2007

Reunion stalwart : Bob Moncrief who has been associated with the wrestling business for over forty years sadly died just before Christmas from a combined heart attack and stroke. His widow Sue reported that he passed away quietly in his sleep at Queen Mary's Hospital, Sidcup, Kent, following his collapse.

Bob was widely known as a second during his early days with Dale Martins and also refereed on occasion. He had regularly provided the music at the Reunions for over twelve years, and could always be seen sitting up front during the award ceremonies, playing the C.D.'s.

The funeral is booked for 1.30 p.m. on the 2nd January 2008 at Falconwood cemetry near Eltham, London S.E.9. where Reunion President Joe D'Orazio will deliver a tribute to his life long associate and friend.

Legends Show DVD trailer

The British Wrestlers Reunion in conjunction with LDN Wrestling and the TWC fight Channel ( Sky 427) are proud to show this first round clip of the awesome match between 10 times undefeated World Lightweight Champion : Johnny Saint and Britains best technical wrestler and winner of the Golden Globe award 2007 : Johnny Kidd , that took the capacity audience by storm at Broxbourne Civic Centre on November 24th..

This bout which is regarded as a modern classic and consdiered the best contest of the decade will be available in full shortly and also broadcast on Sky in the New Year.

1st december 2007

Legends turn out at Maidstone

2nd December 2007

Last evening saw the return of traditional British wrestling to the Agricultural hall in Maidstone and a visit from some of the great names that once thrilled so many fans over the years at this historic venue. Names like Alan Kitto, Shane Scott, The Viking, Johnny Kincaid, Tony 'Titch' White, Mel Stuart, Hugh Mungous, Mickey West, Brian Minelli, and the very welcome addition of 90's FWA star : Justin Richards who having suffered an extremely rare form of facial and neck cancer which almost claimed his young life, is now making a strong recovery and apart from nerve damage looks fitter than ever. There was also an appearance from the reigning British and Commonwealth Games gold medallist : Buster Clayden who was supporting his little sister Lucy ( reigning British Ladies Amateur Champion) during her bout.

The show which played to a packed audience was full of thrills and spills which one would expect from a Dropkixx show. The bouts were rounds of 6x 3 minutes with two falls two submissions or a K.O. to decide the winner, apart from the two tag matches, and every wrestler gave 110 % of themselves pleasing the fans who had braved the cold.

Young grapplers with colourful names like Cell, A.J. Mysterio, The Russ, TAN, Danny Eels, Barry Ryan, Grim Reaper, Sgt. Kevin Anthony, Johnny Love, Sugar Ray Hammer, Muscles Mansfield, Disastrous Dizzy, Stefan Hard, Gary and Steve Docherty, Lucy Clayden, and Britannia all demonstrated their British shoot styles techniques coupled with some awesome aerial action, proving that British wrestling is alive and well.

The main event was a title match for the IWC submission Heavyweight Championship between Hard Love and The Flying Dochertys who are reminiscent of the fabulous Borg Twins or Peter and Jon Cortez, with their switches and cross overs. After a fast moving all action bout, Hard Love took the title to become the new Champions.

One regret was that Klondyke Kate was unable to appear, although the beautiful Britannia filled in admirably with some great technical chain sequences etc..

The referee was World of Sport legend Bobby Stafford with myself: Frank Rimer as M.C. for the evening.

A DVD is being edited and will be available soon.

Dropkixx at Maidstone

27th November 2007

Following the success of the Octopber show, this coming Saturday sees the second outing of the Dropkixx wrestlers under the helm of 'Notorious' Jon Ritchie, in the legendary Agricultural Hall, Lockmeadow market, Maidstone, Kent.

There will be tag Championship bout between Hard Love : Johnny Love and Stefan Hard assisted by girlie models, and The Flying Scotsmen: Gary and Steve Docherty.

The great Klondyke Kate will tackle british Amateur ladies Champion : Lucy Claydon

plus many more grapplers including A.J. Cell, Grim Reaper, and Sgt Kevin Anthony.

Guest referee will be Bobby Stafford, myself as M.C. and special visitors will be Wayne Bridges, Sarah Bridges, Mel Stuart, Tony White, Johnnie Riley, The Viking: Tony Wood, Alan Kitto, Mickey West, Brian Minelli, Steve Minelli, Billy La Rue, Vince Randell, plus more.

Johnny Kincaid also hopes to attend and will be signing copies of his latest book called 'Ringside Seat'

Doors open 6.30 and show starts at 7.15 p.m.

Legends Show- Broxbourne

25th November 2007

Johnny Kincaid,Tony 'Titch' White, Sanjay Bagga, Mel Stuart,Billy La Rue, Frank Rimer, Mal Mason, Alan Batt

Over six hundred adults flocked to the Broxbourme Civic Centre last night for what promised to be a fantastic night of nostalgic wrestling skills from some of the surviving great legends of yesteryear, and they were not disappointed !! The auditorium was packed to capacity with standing room only, just like the old days, and what a great audience they were. You could feel the love and expectant excitement as you entered the ring. One by one the legendary grapplers took to the stage, much to the approval of the crowd. First up was the former European Champion 'Superstar' himself : Mal Sanders looking very powerful and still extremely fit who faced Britain' s current number one technician : James Mason, and that was only the warm up !! Next in was the great legendary Brian 'Goldbelt' Maxine who entered to a great ovation against the peoples favourite and maestro of the mat : Johnny Kidd. There followed a parade of legends visiting last night , and introduced by yours truly, consisting of Johnny Kincaid, Tony 'Titch' White, Alan Batt, Mal Mason, Billy La Rue, plus a life achievement award to the incomparable Mel Stuart. The penultimate bout before the interval was a Championship contest between Jon Ritchie the holder of the British LDN belt and Yorghos Christopoulos the Ladies man and Greek National Champion, which the young pretender won much to the delight of the female visitors.

World of Sport legend: Robbie Brookside kicked off the second half tagging with Lloyd Ryan Son Darren versus Northern star and evergreen mat man : Blondie Barratt who had Jackie Steel as his partner, and who can still turn on the heat . Kendo Nagasaki did his best to disrupt proceedings, but to no avail and retired quietly away having upset all the wrestlers.

World of Sport Referees Bobby Stafford and Mal Mason showed why they are the best in the business , as did M.C. Steve Lytton who handled the intros beautifully, and young Chris Roberts who refereed as well.Thanks also to the young wrestlers Mike Mendoza, Ashe, Danny Garnell, Tex Benedict Phil Powers who all officiated as seconds.

By now, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation as the moment drew near for the awesome Johnny Saint to enter the arena after a lay off of ten years . 'Will he be the same ?? Can he still do it?? They asked, but the moment this great legend walked calmly through the curtains everyone knew that they were in a for a treat not seen for a decade. Sadly, Steve Grey had seriously injured his back and was unable the wrestle although he was there. Johnny Kidd begged the Promoters to let him work twice, and there followed what can only be described as a master class in wrestling given by these two great athletes. "Sheer poetry in motion"- one fan said, and he was right . Ten times World Champion: Saint showed the cheering fans just why he is called the man of one thousand holds and is considered the finest wrestler in the world. He bobbed and weaved to the delighted audience who cheered his every action with complete ecstacy.

After working for nearly half an hour the hall erupted into a crescendo of adulation and applause at the final bell, giving both men a standing ovation, over and over again. Steve Grey who seconded Johnny Kidd, took the microphone to compliment what has been considered the bout of the decade.

Every wrestler on the bill and over twenty young stars of today stood open mouthed at the skills displayed before them. One youngster commented " It is like seeing God come down to earth giving a wrestling exhibition " How right he was!!!.

As if that wasn't enough, the effervescent and sprightly Johnny Saint who defies all signs of ageing then stood for photos and autographs for over an hour and a half along with the other grapplers.

All praise for this wonderful evening surely must be due to the efforts of LDN Promoter : Sanjay Bagga who must now have proved that he is no longer the new boy on the block but a fully fledged and credible Promoter. Our hearfelt thanks also to the ongoing support of the TWC Fight Channel ( Sky 427) and particulary Sean Herbert with his team including the beautiful announcer : Miss Fiona Fox who all flew in for the show from Ireland.

For those of you who missed the feast of entertainment, don't worry because TWC fight will be showing the full card in due course. Keep watching for details.

Sanjay Bagga said of the evening : " I have been priviliged to witness and be part of a great evening of wrestling, proving that if the format is right and the quality good, people will come out to see a night of wrestling and I hope that next year I shall be able to Promote a Legends 2 sequel. I know that the long established Promoters like Mr Dixon and Mr Freemantle have enjoyed many years of this type of success, but this is my first time at this level, and I hope that it lived up to expectations, as I really want to revive British traditional wrestling."

There are many photos of the evening and we shall post a selection when made available to the site.

Jack Dempsey dead

24th November 2007

We are deeply saddened to announce the recent death of true wrestling legend : Jack Dempsey who passed awasy aged 87 years old. Jack real name Tommy Moore was renouned for his shoot skills and was a central figure in the world famous snakepit gym in Wigan, where immortals such as Billy Joyce, Ernie and Billy Riley , The Beaumonts, Georges Gordienko, Karl Gotch all trained. Although the original site was long demolished, Jack continued to live within eyesight of the club that bred so many Champions, making Wigan the wrestling mecca of the world.

I had the distinction of working with Jack on numerous occasions in the sixties, and have posted an old shot from a show that we did in 1968 for the European Championship against Stefan Milla with the late great Freddie Green ( Steve Greys father and my mentor ) as referee, and myself as M.C.

Our thanks to the Wrestling heritage site for the write-up

Jack was one of the finest and hardest grapplers to ever enter a ring, although outside his rich Northern humour was inspiring, and our deepest condolences go to his widow : Theresa,and family on this truly sad occasion. However, his legacy will live on forever in the annals of wrestling.

Frank Rimer

( Jack Dempsey wins European crown , with Freddie green and Frankie Rimer June 1968 )

British wrestling champ dies

GRAPPLE STAR: Champion wrestler Thomas Moore pictured at the height of his success in 1957

By Geoffrey Shryhane

A Wigan wrestler who became a national sporting celebrity has died at the age of 87.

Thomas Moore – who wrestled under the professional name of Jack Dempsey – was among the country's top five wrestlers when the sport attracted millions of TV viewers.
Tommy became the British welterweight champion in 1957 when he beat another 'great', Mick McManus.

Tommy was proud of his Wigan roots. He was born in Newtown and began wrestling seriously after joining Riley's Gym in Scholes. The gym turned out many talented fighters, but Tommy was better than the rest and his talent stood him in good stead when wrestling became popular on television.

His niece, Margaret Dickens, said: "He was a fantastic wrestler who gave delight and entertainment to so many fans. "He was a real hero and wrestled all over the country.
"There was nobody to match him and he was a real celebrity."

When he won his world championship, Tommy was described by one sports writer as: "The perfect ruthless fighting machine."

He was the subject of a major TV documentary when he was 75. Earlier in life, Tommy and his wife Theresa set up a shop at the end of Vine Street in Whelley.Later, he had a number of jobs including one at Gullicks in Wigan. But the major focus in his life was wrestling.

After retiring from the ring, Tommy became a well-known local character and was rarely seen without his trademark bow tie, beret and King Edward cigar.Over a pint, he entertained his audiences with a host of stories from the national wrestling world.
In his youth, Tommy had been an enthusiastic rugby league player and took part in the first competition for the Ken Gee Cup.

Just a few days!!!

There are only a few days to wait until wrestling event of the decade takes place at the Legends Show this Saturday, the 24th November at the Broxbourne Civic Centre , Near Ware, Herts. With tickets selling like hot cakes and more and more wrestling stars appearing as guests, this tremendous evening promises to be a wondeful mix of nostalgia and grappling skills not seen on one card since the great days of yesteryear.

LDN Promoter: SANJAY BAGGA said yesterday "I am extremely nervous but honoured to have such illustrious legends at this show and confident that we shall sell out. If not, I shall be enjoying a front row seat just to witness these great warriors showing their skills"

World lightweight Champion and probably the greatest technical wrestler on the planet : JOHNNY SAINT has been coaxed out of retirement for one more outing against the incomparable evergreen star : STEVE GREY .

Veteran TV star and legendary hard man : BRIAN 'Goldbelt' MAXINE will face the gifted technician and golden grappler 2007 : JOHNNY KIDD

'Superstar' MAL SANDERS who has reigned supreme for over 20 years tackles the amazing grappler JAMES MASON.

Liverpools own wrestling answer to the Beatles in the form of the International star : ROBBIE BROOKSIDE , the greatest enigma of the last thirty years: KENDO NAGASAKI , Northern star and idol : BLONDIE BARRATT, will all be wrestling as will LDN Champion : JON RITCHIE who defends his title against the young handsome pretender and TV favourite : YORGHOS . Nagasaki's Manager and ace drummer : LLOYD RYAN with whom he fell out will face off together with his Son : PHIL RYAN against his old ally.

Guest referees will be the TV middle men : MAL MASON and BOBBY STAFFORD

As if that was not enough there will be appearances from MEL STUART, TONY 'Titch' WHITE, TOM THUMB, BILLY LA RUE, JOHNNY KINCAID, VINCE RANDELL, WAYNE BRIDGES, SARAH BRIDGES, to name but a few.

The widow of HANS STREIGER: Wendy Mellor and best friend, Britains greatest female grappler ; KLONDYKE KATE are also scheduled to appear.

TWC fight Channel supremo : SEAN HERBERT is flying in from Ireland and fans are travelling from as far away as Tokyo, Japan, Scotland and Wales. Regular Reunion fans are booking in block and a party from Bath/ Bristol known as the old seniles led by David Franklin and Ian Dowland are all making their way to the venue for a super weekend of wrestling.

Channel 4 television will be filming a documentary on the evening so hurry up and book a seat if you want to be televised !!!

We shall be celebrating the awesome 45 year career of legendary mat-man 'pretty boy' MEL STUART with a special presentation which we hope you will share with us.

See you all there for a fantastic evening.

Mel Stuart for honour at legends show

The evergreen character and legendary wrestler : Mel Stuart will appear at the legends show in Broxbourne on the 24th November where he will be presented in the ring with a life acheivement award for a career in wrestling that spanned 45 incredible years, featuring over 10,000 bouts. During those years Mel has worked with every grapple star in the U.K. and appeared on TV so many times that he has lost count.

His overseas tours have taken him to over 20 Countries and he is considered to be one of the finest carpenters to ever enter a ring.

I have the honour and distinction to be invited to present this award, which will be a special occassion for me, as I have been friends with Mel since the sixties. Having wrestled him several times during that period, I can vouch for the fact that he is one of all time greats and richly deserves this accolade.

Frank Rimer

Roy Parkes and Isaak Rain dead

The world of wrestling has lost two more of its stars from opposite sides of the spectrum.

Roy Parkes known to his legions of fans as Mr. Big has succumbed to Cancer after a long and brave battle during which he lost a lung. Roy was a major player during the golden days of grappling and appeared on TV many times.

It is always sad to report a death , but especially heartbreaking when the wrestler is only 22 years old. We have recently lost one of the brightest stars of todays wrestlers in the form of Isaak Rain who was tragically taken long before his time. Isaak was making a fine reputation as a great athlete and was a firm favourite with the audiences around the U.K.

There are no words to express our sorrow and as always all thoughts go out to the families of both men.

The world of wrestling has been deprived of two great stars, and the sky will be a little dimmer for their passing.

Raymond Glendenning dies

We are very sorry to announce the death of former World of Sport star: Raymond Glendenning following a short illness. Raymond who was affectionately known to his friends as 'Tippy toes' was a great Professional but more importantly a quiet and modest man well respected and loved by his fellow wrestlers and many friends and admirers. He will be sadly missed by all who had the privilige to know and work with him.

Raymond was cremated on Monday the 29th October 2007.

May we extend our sincerest sympathies and condolences to his family at their time of sorrow.

Johnny Saint wrestles again !!

The maestro of a thousand holds : legendary star Johnny Saint, who has been described as the greatest living technical wrestler since the death of his own hero: George Kidd is returning to British rings in a contest with Steve Grey on November the 24th at Broxbourne Civic Hall, Herts., where the boys are to part of a special legends evening.

Johnny who was the former lightweight Champion of the World will face off against the awesome Steve Grey, himself a former World Champion and also renouned as a fantastic technical exponent.

Also featured in this glittering array of talent will be Johnny Kidd, Mal Sanders,Jon Ritchie, Yorghos Christopolous, Goldbelt Maxine, James Mason, Robbie Brookdside, Phil Powers, Blondie Barratt, Bobby Stafford (referee) and the enimatic Kendo Nagasaki assisted by his manager: Lloyd Ryan.

Special guest will be Johnny Kincaid who will be signing copies of his book. Many other stars of World of Sport grappling are expected to attend including 'Gay One' Vince Randell, Wayne Bridges, and Mick McManus.

The show is being filmed for TWC fight Channel on Sky TV 427 ,and will be screened at a later date.

LDN Promoter: Sanjay Bagga says 'I am extremely nervous Promoting such illustrious names all together on one show, but with their Professionalism, I am sure the evening will be just fantastic, bringing untold pleasure to the millions of fans that adored them during the halycon days of wrestling. I for one shall have a front row seat.

If any former wrestlers are available on the night, please come along and join us, to be introduced in the parade of honour inside the ring.

Tickets available from 01992-441946 priced £30 ringside downwards.

wrestling families join Reunion forum

How wonderful to see the Sons and daughters of past masters of the mat game writing on the chat pages and on the forums. Your parents and relatives would have been so proud of you for keeping the names alive that thrilled so many millions of fans over the years. Please keep the forums going and maybe more of the thousands of our followers will write something.

If anyone wishes further information on any former or current wrestler etc., please email the site or write to frank.rimer@yahoo.com and we shall endeavour to obtain a satisfactory result for you.

Thank you.

U.K. wrestlers in WWE trial

British wrestling has never been so influential across the pond as it is today what with Dave Finlay, Dave Rocky Taylor, Steve (William) Regal, Paul Burchill, Nikita ( Katie lee), Stu Sanders , all working regularly Stateside for the WWE.

This week the WWE were back in Britain where grapplers Rocker Richards and Darren Burridge were among some of the current stars trialling at the auditions in Birmingham, for the supremo: Dave 'fit' Finlay.

In the past, matmen such as Robbie Brookside and Charlie Rage have enjoyed matches on the American circuit, and we trust that many more newcomers will follow them.

19th October 2007

Agricultural Hall Maidstone is back

This coming Saturday, the 6th October 2007, sees the eagerly awaited return of British Professional wrestling to this iconic venue which was host to literally thousands of bouts over forty glorious years.

The show is being organised by Dropkixx Promotions, ( dropkixxpromotions.com) a long established Company famous for encouraging the traditional styles of British Pro grappling, involving both amateur and shoot ( submission) methods , and will be fought in rounds as made famous by the forefathers of wrestling in the golden World of Sport era.

Yours truly has been invited to act as M.C. for the evening, and it will be an honour to step into the ring which saw greats such as Garfield, Fisher, kellett, Street, Barnes, Logan and McManus work.

The show will feature many top names from the present era, such as Heavyweight Champ and TV star : Jon Ritchie, Sugar Ray Hammer, 400lb giant :Hugh Mungus, 360 lb collossus Champ of Camp : Q.T. McFluff, T.V. star and Greek Champ : Yorghos Cristopolous, Danny Garnel, Mauritian Champ and amateur genius : Amit Rambojam, Grim Reaper, Shoot Champion :Barry Ryan, Ladies man : Brad Beck, Tag action by Hard Love: Stefan Hard and Johnny Love versus Team Beautiful : Danny Beckwith and Barbell Bateman, and many more.Guest referee will be legendary TV favourite: Bobby Stafford plus favourite : Nicky P

If there are any old time wrestlers from the area free on the evening, come along and be introduced in the ring. (free entry of course ! )

Doors open 6.00 p.m. Bell at 7.00.p.m.

Trains to Maidstone East or West, Parking , Bar, refreshments etc..

This is a must see show for all you fans who like their wrestling traditional !!

See you all there.

Frank Rimer

Kendo Nagasaki returns

The most mysterious hooded wrestling super star of the last thirty years: KENDO NAGASAKI is rumoured to return to British wrestling rings in the Autumn with appearances for LDN wrestling, ably assisted by his Manager LLOYD RYAN. Promoter Sanjay Bagga, promises that the legendary icon will appear in November at two venues, which should be televised for Sky TV's Channel 427 : TWC fight. We shall publish more details as they become known. Managewr Lloyd who himself was a world class drummer for such stars as U.S. singer JOHNNY RAY, and who was responsible for teaching GENESIS star : PHIL COLLINS to play, says that Kendo has been training hard and is in better shape than ever.

Meanwhile, here are photos of the great warrior shown with one of his fabulous cars in front of his stately home.

JOHN HARRIS memorial service

Steve Harris (Jay) has informed us that the the long awaited meorial service to his life time partner , the former World of Sport M.C. and referee legend : JOHN HARRIS will be held at St. Johns Church in Eltham Hill, Eltham, London SE9 on November the 17th at 2.00 p.m. The church is situated opposite McDonalds and everyone is welcome to attend and pay their respects in celebration of the man who officiated at over 700 wrestling tournaments.

DANNY COLLINS returns to the ring

One of Britain.s biggest stars of the modern era is to make a comeback to WAW, Danny Boy Collins a star of World of Sport and a huge name in the 80s and 90s is to appear at the WAW presentation at the Marina Centre Great Yarmouth on October 14th.

Danny appeared on many of WAW's early shows in the 90s and helped to establish it as a company, he held the WAW Heavyweight title and Cruiserweight crown and his long fued with Skull Murphy is still rated one of the most intense ever seen in WAW.

Danny has been out of wrestling for 7 years but has made a comeback recently and he is as good as ever.

WAW Academy are delighted to announce that Danny Collins one of the UK's biggest wrestling stars of the modern era will be holding a training seminar at

The WAW Academy at Breckland Community Centre, Costessey, Norwich Sunday October 7th October 1-30 pm-5pm.

The cost of the seminar is £25. WAW Academy students will pay their normal weekend rates. If you wish to be part of this seminar or the WAW training weekend.

Tel 07979302203

Email sweetsaraya@hotmail.com.

Humphrey Mendoza dies

We have received a very sad report from the first Lady of British wrestling: SWEET SORAYA, regarding the recent demise of 60's wrestler JOHN HAGGAR who sometimes worked as HUMPHREY MENDOZA, and our sincerest sympathies are extended to family and friends who knew him. Any athlete that takes time to entertain his fellow man/woman will be remembered as a very special human being. John enjoyed a long life and will be missed for his contribution to our business.

Popular Norwich wrestler who was a big draw in the city in the 1960s and 1970s when the sport was at its height, has died aged 80.

John Haggar fought under several different aliases including Humphrey Mendoza, The Sheik, Mr X and John L.

But he was also part of a popular tag wrestling team The Stompers with 'Bad' Bill Pye, who took part in shows at the Keir Hardie Hall in Norwich in the early 1960s.

His son Stephen Haggar, 57, from Bracondale, Norwich, who was also a wrestler, said his father was quite a character.

“He was well-known in Norwich and in the summer he used to wrestle at all the holiday camps from Lowestoft to Caister.

“He also used to wrestle in the Midlands and other parts of the country. During the winter he would also perform in Norfolk, Suffolk, the Midlands and elsewhere.

“Throughout the 1960s, '70s and early '80s he was very popular. He was also a boxer, but he was more famous as a wrestler.”

When he was not wrestling Mr Haggar worked as a doorman at the former Samson and Hercules nightclub in Tombland, and was later a lorry driver working on the fuel tankers.

He died at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital on Tuesday morning.

He had been previously diagnosed with cancer and a tumour, but his family is unsure whether a post mortem examination will be carried out to find the cause of death.

His son Stephen, a semi-retired former health and safety advisor at Norwich City Council, said his father had been in and out of hospital in the last few weeks, but, in between, had still been living at the same Calthorpe Road home in West Earlham he had been for the past 58 years.

Norwich born-and-bred he was brought up in Earlham Road, and started wrestling in the early 1960s when he joined Anglian Wrestling Promotions, based in Fleggburgh, near Yarmouth.

He had four children, eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

His wife Kathleen died a number of years ago and he lived with a partner, Sheila.

He will be cremated at Earlham Crematorium, at a date yet to be fixed.

We hope that this article by Russell Plummer taken from "The Wrestler" from September 1972 will stir some memories for those lucky enough to have seen him in action.

RIP John Hagger.

We are back !!!!

Hi everyone. At last, we are back on-line !!!!

Firstly, please accept our sincerest apologies if you were unable to access our site over the last four weeks or so.

Initially, this was caused because Freewebs : our hosts and web owners,upgraded their javascript service and inadertently we lost the 2006 photo gallery which will be rebuilt in the next few days.

Secondly, the domain name of our site was registered through a Company called Key Systems in Switzerland, who in turn subcontracted it to Wild West Domains in Arizona, and in turn again to Nominet in the U.K. We could not get the two intermediaries to email Nominet to renew the name despite much assistance from the Freeweb team, resulting in the site being suspended.We ended up paying nearly £100 to Nominet to take it out of the hands of the Americans and to deal with us direct.

Great to be back however and we shall update everything in the next few days.

Thanks for understanding

Admin team.

Reunion report by James Morton (Author)

Strengthening the Ring of Friendship

‘What we do is meet about eleven at my place, have some lunch, take a nap and then, when we wake up, steal each others’ Zimmer frames’, said host former World Heavyweight Champion Wayne Bridges. He was joking. It was more like ‘None Shall Sleep’ in the hustle and bustle of the Southern Wrestlers’ Annual Reunion at The Bridges at Darenth in Kent last Sunday which he hosts with his Champion bodybuilder wife, Sarah.

Directions were clear. Leave the station, walk down the road until you come to men (and ladies) with cauliflower ears. Well actually come to a long line of parked cars, as in mostly bright sunshine around 450 people, wrestlers, young and old, and a legion of admiring fans turned out for the 2007 annual reunion.

This year’s roll call of those who have died during the previous twelve months, read by reunion stalwart and legendary grappler Colin Joynson, was led by Masambula, ‘The African Witch Doctor’, who years ago delighted crowds by walking around the top rope on his hands. If anyone doubts the dangers of the game, Massa spent the last twenty years of his life in a wheelchair after a ring collapsed during a bout. Others to have passed included ‘Dangerous’ Danny Lynch, two really old timers: American superstar and world’s top ripper, Karl Gotch and 40’s/50’s star Eugene Stezycki, who made his reputation tackling the legendary Bert Assirati when no one else fancied the job, the great John Harris, MC who lost a courageous battle against cancer, and the Canadian wrestler Chris Benoit who, and whose family, died so tragically earlier in the summer.

Then came the presentations to, amongst others, Johnny Kincaid, his tag partner David Bond, Joey Scarlo who was awarded by his former Boss, the legendary Paul Lincoln who, as Doctor Death, did so much to raise the profile of wrestling in the 1960s as well as Klondyke Kate, Journalist Russell Plummer celebrating 50 years of wrestle writing, former Amateur Champion, referee and supreme Professional star Peter Szakacs, now an actor,( brother of the late great Tibor Szakacs), Bazal ‘Romany’ Riley, plus posthumous awards to the legend that was Mike Marino, accepted by his niece: Gina, and that wonderful heavyweight mat man: ‘Crusher’ Mason, accepted by his close friend: female wrestling sensation, Sweet Soraya Wayne Bridges has been hosting the reunion every year since the 1990s and he and Sarah were also given a surprise award. Next year awards will begin for the new generation, although the Committee have already honoured current stars like Doug Williams , Flash Barker and Darren Burridge in the past.

There were the traditional photographs, lunch, stalls selling memorabilia, posters old and new in The Bridges. Hands up those who remember Dominic Pye and Abdul the Turk? There were the fans in large numbers, young and old and including two judges. It was good to see middle-aged men going round with programmes they had saved over the years for the autographs of the men who had appeared on the bill. One man who in his forties was enthusing about a new wrestling school opening in Essex in the New Year which he is hoping to attend. Who says the game is over?

But the reunion is about meeting old faces and reminiscing. Best place to wrestle? Southend. Why? Best fish and chips. Too many wrestlers present to mention all their names but there was Prince Kumali, ‘Deaf and Dumb’ star Harry Kendall, Barry Douglas, Sweet Soraya, ‘Bully Boy’ Ian Muir, ‘Banger’# Walsh, Bob Kirkwood, Alan Sargeant, Tony Bates, Ringo Rigby, Gordon Quirey, Billy Stock, Doug Williams, Pete Roberts, John Hurley, Kurt Heinz, Billy La Rue,Roy St Clair, Paul Lincoln, John Cox, The Viking, Bob Anthony, ’Crowbar’ Jimmy Sullivan, Dave Phillips, Romany Riley over from Tenerife, who was another to receive an award, Keith Myatt, wrestler and MC: Frank Rimer, Joey and Tony Scarlo and, of course, the evergreen Mick McManus plus Founder, Joe D’Orazio. A special mention to Billy Barber, now 87 and looking very dashing and ten years younger in a straw hat, who must have been the oldest guest. Immediately after the war Billy wrestled all over the country and must be one of the last to remember the hard hold.

People travelled from across the globe for this amazing day of re-kindling and making of new friendships. There were two wrestlers from Tokyo Japan, who are current stars for Japan NOAH. They were Shuhei Taniguchi and Tsutomu Hirayanagi. There was even a reporter from Tokyo called Shuhei Atori who travelled across the world just for this event. Others came from Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Germany, Tenerife, and Spain.

A full day of memories, fun, good company and good humour. Same time next year?

James Morton is the author of Fighters : the sad lives andf deaths of Freddie Mills and Randy Turpin.

Fantastic Reunion Fraternity

Just a few words for now to say what a fantastic day last Sunday the 12th August was. Great supporters, great wrestlers, great food, great conversation, great atmosphere--great everything. More people than ever numbering over 400 !! WOW !!

We shall publish a detailed report written by the famous auther : James Morton who wrote the book 'Diana' and has many bestsellers to his name such as his latest hit about the livesof the late Freddie Mills and Randolph Turpin, this weekend. Full photo set will be loaded as well.

Meanwhile, if anyone doubts what the ring of friendship stands for, look at these photos of the legendary deaf and dumb star Harry Kendall greeting his life long pal and our Founder Joe D'Orazio after 20 years of being out of contact, and then you will understand why we meet every year with our supporters, friends, family and wrestlers from every generation.

God bless every one who took the time and trouble to come along from every corner of the globe including Tokyo, Japan, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Tenerife, Germany, and more.

THANK YOU !!!!!

Deaf ' dumb star Harry Kendal at Reunion

The legendary 60's /70's deaf and dumb superstar : Harry Kendal has confirmed his appearance at this years Reunion on Sunday, which has caused great excitement among his many followers and wrestling pals, who have been frantically trying to contact him for the last few years.

Marty Jones -last minute cancellation

80's superstar : Marty Jones has been forced to reluctantly cancel his intended appearance at this years reunion,where he was due to receive a commendation for his services to wrestling. This sad news is the result of business commitments at his public house, although Marty assures all his fans that he will definitely be there next year.

Message from Paul Lincoln ( Doctor Death)

1st August 2007

Hi all,

I have just received a phone call from Bruce Welch who is the rythmn guitarist with the legendary 'Shadows' --- Sir Cliff Richard's band, and Bruce has intimated that he would love to visit the Reunion next week assuming that he has no other pressing engagements. I sincerely hope you will all come along for a wonderful day out to meet your favs including Bruce who along with Cliff and the Shads are considered the best group Great Britain ever produced.

The Annual Wrestlers Reunion get together has become the highlight of my social calender, and I hope that you all feel the same way and are as excited as my wife and myself at seeing all the boys and gals next week

Yours in wrestling

Paul Lincoln

( Doctor Death)

Adrian Street writes from Florida

30th July 2007

Hi all, this is Adrian and Linda Street from our home in Florida. I am still wrestling, not bad for a pensioner !! Here is a snap or two taken recently. Hope you all like them. Busy writing my auto biography just now, taking longer to write the bloody thing than live it. Went to see Elvis's birthplace with Linda and Son Adrian Jnr., in 2001 and the guard recognised me allowing me to sit in Elvis's Mothers chair --Gee I am so famous !!. (He plays in a band with my other boy: Vince - not Elvis- Adrian Jnr - see myspace.com/silverbrazilians ) . Love to all my fans and friends plus a special Hi to my dear buddy and tag partner: Bobby Barnes, and I hope that you all have a wonderful Reunion. Keep up the work on a great site.

Ada and Linda xxx

Karl Gotch dies

30th July 2007

( Tony Charles, Karl Gotch and buddy near their home in Pensacola, Florida)

That formidable American grappler : KARL GOTCH has died this week aged 83 years. Gotch who was ranked as one of the top three shoot (submission) wrestlers in the world was still training at 80 with our own Welsh ex-pat matman: 'Tonypandy Terror' Tony Charles. Born Karel Istaz, Gotch became a naturalised American many years ago, working with every top wrestler of his era over five incredible decades. The immortal Lou Thesz rated the heavyweight as his most feared opponent along with the late great Georges Gordienko.

Although we are a British based Reunion site, we thought it only fitting that such an awesome athlete and perfect gentleman received a mention of condolence.

Jim Breaks for Reunion

26th July 2007

The organisers of this years Reunion are absolutely thrilled to announce that 'Cry Baby' Jim Breaks will be the special guest at this years Reunion, where he will be honoured with a life time achievement award.

Jim and his lovely wife will fly in from his Gran Canaria home to meet ands greet all his many friends and colleagues.

A film crew will be making a T.V. show for TWC

Last years Reunion was very special and this year is set to be even greater with the celebrated guests that have promised to attend !!!

The ring of friendship has never been stronger.

Thankyou

Eugene Stezycki dies- report from Mike Hallinan

20th July 2007

It is with sad regret we report the death of Eugene Stezycki who lost his fight with cancer last Thursday 19th July 2007. He passed away at his Ilford home with his Wife, and family around him.

Eugene Stezycki was born in Bydgoszcz, Poland in October 1924, during the second world war he was put into a German forced Labour camp while serving as a young recruit in the Polish army.

After the war he left war torn Eastern Europe to settle in Bristol in the early 1950s where he was an all-round athlete participating in boxing, weightlifting, and amatuer wrestling. He represented the Bristol Amateur wrestling Club on many occasions winning for them many cups, and medals. After a number of years in the amatuer ranks he turned to the paid ranks and slowly starting working his way up the bills.

However his big chance came in 1956 when female promoter Jessie Rogers (Wife of Dick Rogers ex heavyweight wrestler) and promoters of Bell Vue, Manchester were looking for a late replacement for an Assirati opponent for their next bill at the Sports Stadium, Brighton for Sunday 22nd of July. Having seen Stezycki in action, and liking what they had seen they offered him the opportunity and a big pay packet.

And so it was that Stezycki stepped into the ring for the first time to face the reigning British, Empire, and European heavyweight champion. Stezycki took the fight to Assirati from the bell, and pushed him all the way. The packed house of 3,000 fans were never disappointed with the all action wrestling, and were left thrilled at the end of six hard fought rounds. Assirati was so impressed with his young opponent that he took the mike and declared to the audience `You`ve got a good un here`. With Assirati`s seal of approval Stezycki was able to go from a good working heavyweight, to a top of the bill attraction, earning twice his usual pay.

In the ensuing years that followed Stezycki was to face Assirati over 45 times in the space of three years, a truly remarkable feat when you think that former Olympic champions, and World Champions were only willing to share the ring with Assirati just the once. He will always be remembered as the toughest, and bravest wrestler ever to work in this country.

Who can forget their epic battle at the Seymour Hall, London in December 1958 when Assirati`s European title was up for grabs, with a side wager of £500 when the average weekly wage was only £10 per week. Tickets for the match were being sold for twice, and three times their value outside the hall, such was the clamour of the fans to see the match. At the end of the struggle Assirati was bloodied but declared the winner, Stezycki also bloodied received the acclaim of the packed out crowd, his hand held raised by referee Harry Geoghan who was also covered in blood, just like the two front rows of spectators around the ringside.

Eugene Stezycki name will never be forgotten by the legends of true wrestling fans that saw him in action, and wrestling historians will always include his name when remembering there top ten wrestlers. These wrestlers made wrestling simply by wrestling. (Anyone wishing to see photographs of Assirati and Stezycki before their epic December 1958 battle can log onto to bertassirati.com).

Rest in peace you`ve earned your rest great Warrior.

Mike Hallinan.

Wrestlers Reunion August 12th

The long and eagerly awaited Southern Reunion is almost upon us once again, and for those few newcomers who are not aware of the great day, here are the details for your diaries.

Sunday August 12th from 11.00 a.m. till late.

Venue : 'The Bridges' Public House, Horton Road, Horton Kirby, South Darenth, Kent ( Near Dartford)

Trains to Farningham East Station, then walk straight down road until you see men with cauliflower ears !! ( Maybe Ladies as well )

Anticipated guests this year are set to include the great legendary star : Marty Jones, 50's icon from the States : Rene Lasartesse, Keith Myatt, Bobby Ryan, Paul Lincoln ( Doctor Death), Spencer Churchill, Killer Kowalski, Romany Riley, Mick McManus, Johnny Saint, Prince Kumali, Bob Anthony, Barry Douglas, Kung Fu : Eddie Hamill, Tony Kelly, Joey Scarlo, Tony Scarlo, Colin Joynson, Johnny Kincaid ( signing copies of his book), Dave Prowse MBE ( Darth Vader) Star Wars movies, James Morton ( celebrated Author ), Banger Walsh, Neil Sands, Tom Thumb, Peter Szakacs,Joe D'Orazio, Ricky Knight, Sweet Soraya, Russell Plummer, Darren Burridge, Doug Williams, Alex Shane, Martin Stone, Jon Ritchie, John Hall, Johnny Elijah, plus many many more too numerous to mention.

Food will be served from two giant gazebos and the whole day is FREE, ( Donations gratefully received)

IOf anyopne wants directions by car, please email Frank.rimer@yahoo.com

CHRIS BENOIT in family tragedy

15th July 2007

WAYNE BRIDGES has been informed by WWE star : BATISTA during his visit and meeting in New York over the weekend, that International superstar : CHRIS BENOIT allegedly murdered his wife on Friday, followed by taking his Son's life on Saturday, finally committing suicide himself on Sunday. This followed a call to VINCE MCMAHON, informing him that there were family problems and that he would not be appearing.

Chris who was Canadian, commenced his illustrious career in Calgary, at the STU HART Foundation, where he became an admirer of all things British, via the skills of TOMMY BILLINGTON ( DYNAMITE KID) who was himself married into the Hart family along with DAVEY BOY SMITH. He joined the WCW and joined ranks with great grapplers :DAVE (ROCKY) TAYLOR (Son of the legendary ERIC TAYLOR), WILLIAM (STEVE) REGAL, and DAVE (FIT) FINLAY where they barnstormed their way around the States culminating in winning the strap as World Tag Champions. When the WWE took over the WCW, the boys were inducted into the mainstream American circuits and became legends of the British style of wrestling.

Away from the ring, he lived in close proximity to the other boys and also DIAMOND DALLAS PAGE at Peach Tree City near Atlanta,and would often join Finlay,Taylor, and Regal to entertain and train young aspiring wrestlers form the U.K.'s Dropkixx wrestling Academy, where Founder : Frank Rimer would arrange trips with his Stateside pals.

Current stars such as MARTYN 'THE GOVNOR' STONE, DARREN BURRIDGE,CHARLIE RAGE, LEROY KINCAID, ASHE, SKYE, JADE, and SCOTT FRASIER have all been priviliged to share a ring with Benoit where he gave unlimited time and effort to help them.

Chris had personal demons for much of his short life, but hopefully, he will be remembered as an awesome athlete, and a great shoot, amateur and Pro wrestl;er, who had time for the up and coming athletes that doted on him.

Danny Lynch- Internment details

A service to celebrate the life of World of Sport legend DANNY LYNCH, who died last week, will be held at the CHARING CREMATORIUM on the 11 th June at 12.40 p.m.

The crematorium is situated on the A20 between Harrietsham and Ashford, Kent, and can be found on the right hand side of the A20, if heading South.

Danny's widow: Hilary has expressed her gratitude to all those fans and colleagues who have sent messages of condolence, and has issued a blanket invitation to anyone wishing to attend the service. Wayne Bridges is expected to read a tribute from the wrestlers and the Reunion members.

JOHNNY KINCAID - Book launch

World of Sport TV legend : Johnny Kincaid has launched his long awaited and much sought after memoirs, aptly entitled 'Johnny Kincaid's ringside seat.'

The book contains many anecdotes and yarns from the old days with insights into the world of wrestling, as told through the eyes of one of the Countries biggest stars.Containing many photos, it is a must for all collectors of memorabilia who love wrestling.

Competitively priced at just £10.99 , the book can be ordered on-line by clicking the link below.

John will be a guest at the Southern Reunion in Kent on August 12th,where he will sign copies for his many fans.

( Johnny Kincaid with Amazing Kung Fu : Eddie Hamill at Northern Reunion , Ellesmere Port 2007)

http://www.authorhouse.co.uk/BookStore/ItemDetail~bookid~40098.aspx

30th May 2007

'Pukka One' Darren Burridge in movies

Current heavyweight star : 'Pukka One' Darren Burridge has continued his glittering career with a sideways move into the exciting world of films. (see photo) He is presently shooting scenes (literally) for his latest offering entitled 'Ten dead men' , having just completed several TV adverts.

Darren started his wrestling career via FWA under Alex Shane, and the Dropkixx Wrestling Academy, where he was schooled by the great 'Gay One' Vince Randell, and started out to emulate the outrageous character of : Adrian Street, calling himself 'The flambouyant' Baxter Burridge. This image however was soon discarded when he met his all-time idol at the Dropkixx gym : TV legend : Bobby Barnes. Bob took time out to teach the youngster many of his personal moves, and Darren Burridge was born.

Since then, he has gone on to wrestle in Italy, Thailand, Ireland, Morocco, Austria, Germany, plus many more Countries, even a trial for the WWE, and has become established as one of Great Britains favourite stars, working with every wrestler of any note, from Doug Williams in the U.K. to Rikishi in the U.S.A. His ability to turn styles from traditional technical wrestling to comedy and/ or brawling, has endeared him to all that meet him.

The Essex star who has his feet firmly on the ground, has retained his links with the schools that taught him, giving much of his free time to helping aspiring young grapplers, achieve their own dreams.

He is to receive an award this summer at the Reunion in Kent, for his achievements to date.

30th May 2007

DANNY LYNCH dies of heart attack

(photos courtesy of Jinny Huckles)

'DANGEROUS' DANNY LYNCH, considered by many to be the best heavyweight villain wrestler of the last 40 years, has died this morning from a heart attack whilst recuperating in the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford, where he was taken on Saturday.

Danny had suffered health problems over the last few years, such as gangrene in the feet, resulting in amputation of his toes, a massive heart attack four years ago, leaving him wheel chair bound, but tackled these setbacks with courage and humour. He was a regular patron at the Reunions, receiving a life achievement award five years ago, for his enormous contribution to wrestling.

One of the greatest ring characters of all time, this Manchester born grappler, rose from the welterweight division to become the most sought after heavyweight in the world. Often appearing before crowds in excess of 100,000 people, in India, Pakistan, and China, where he was treated with God-like reverence. He also made many appearances in movies, such as Attila the Hun and Genghis Khan.

During his long reign as King of the ring, he tagged with men like Johnny Yearsley, Basil 'Romany' Riley and of course the unforgettable Crusher Mason who was so enamoured by the great man that he changed his name to match. His wrestling Academy was responsible for many star wrestlers who emerged from the Ashford area such as Jon Carlo,Peter Gurr, John Riley, Kurt and Karl ( Nobby) Heinz, The Mad Monk, Aaron Stone, and John Hurley to name but a few.

Just to see this frightening man enter the ring often drove the utmost fear into his audiences, with the studded leather belts and chains, but beneath this terrifying exterior, the real man was gentle and kind, with a wonderful dry sense of humour.

Known affectionately by his comrades as 'Mr. Gillette' because of his tendency to bleed profusely during his bouts, this awesome legend of the wrestling business will be sorely missed by everyone.

Details of the funeral will be published as soon as Danny's widow : Hilary has made arrangements. Our thoughts and prayers are with her on this sad loss of such a great immortal star.

29th May 2007

JOHN HARRIS- DEAD

25th May 2007

It is with the deepest sadness that we announce the death of the great M.C. and referee : John Harris, who passed away peacefully in his home at 3.00. p.m. this afternoon.

Long term partner Steve was constantly at his bedside throughout the ordeal until John finally slipped away , following a choking fit.

The boys who had been together for many years realised John's final wish by getting married on Monday last, with a simple civil ceremony.

The legends final message to all his many friends and colleagues was to thank them all for their loyalty and friendship .

Steve will be flying into Britain for the August Reunion on August the 12th, where he will then take John's ashes to be scattered on the same site as his beloved Mother in the South London area .

A special Memorial service will be held in November at the Eltham churchin South London, that John loved as a young man, and it would be a fitting tribute if any of the wrestling fans and buddies would attend. Steve will obviously fly over for this event, and looks forward to greeting everyone. He has been overwhelmed by the love and affection shown by the many well wishers over the last traumatic few weeks.Details of the memorial service will appear later.

At this very sad time, while we mourn the passing of Great Britain's most revered wrestling Official, our hearts and thoughts must however be with Steve, who has courageously fought the cancer battle, every step of the way with John. He can now rest assured that the love of his life is at peace and no longer suffering.

.If anyone cares to leave a few words in tribute, please write on the comments page accordingly. Thank you.

ADRIAN STREET sends greetings

16th May 2007

Legendary grappler and showman Adrian Street has written from his home in Pensacola, Florida together with his beautiful wife : Linda who used to wrestle as Blackfoot Sue for Brian Dixon, to send warmest greetings to all their wrestling pals and the thousands of fans that constantly ask about their welfare.

Ada as he is known to his buddies, emigrated in 1981 with that other awesome star : Tony Charles ( the Tonypandy terror), and finally settled in Florida where he and Linda bought an idyllic lovenest log cabin, featuring wonderful gardens and even a jacuzzi in the front room !! Here the pair who are avid keep fit fans and physical culturists spend many a romantic evening drinking their favourite expensive wine of which Adrian is somewhat of an expert, or eating a rare culinary dish cooked by their own fair hand ( He is Gordon Ramsay in drag!).

Their business interests are many, from the world famous Skullcrushers wrestling school that they ran out of the four plex apartment block that they also own, or to the studio from where Adrian displays and sells his many paintings and sculptures, especially those depicting American Indian culture. In between times, he writes and performs Country and Western music with a comedic wrestling theme, having recorded albums for his own record label : Bizzare Bazaar. Linda and he run a thriving business, making bespoke wrestling wear tailored to individual needs for the WWE and wrestlers worldwide which is sold on Ebay and other internet outlets.

As a former cancer sufferer who beat throat cancer some years ago, which took him down to nine stone, Ada has fought back in his usual indomitable manner to build a physique that many young men would give their right arms for.

He still wrestles twice weekly usually at weekends all over the Gulf Coast, including many trips to Memphis etc.. It was on one of these trips that he visited Elvis Presley's birth place in Tupelo, Mississippi. Having entered the haloed cottage which was roped off to the thousands of visitors, the guards recognised Ada from his heydays, and immediately allowed the veteran grappler to actually sit on the bed where the King entered the world. How is that for fame ? Year before last, He was inducted into the Cauliflower Alley Club ( American Reunion) Hall of Fame in Las Vegas, alongside legends like Kirk Douglas, Jack Palance, Charles Bronson, Lou Thesz, Karl Gotch etc., where he was presented with an award by his own boyhood hero : Don Leo Jonathon. The only Englishman to receive this prestigious acclaim.

Many of his former associates already stay in contact, such as Bobby Barnes, Tony Scarlo, Al Miquet etc., but if anyone wishes to be put in touch just email us and we shall connect you.

Adrian Street may be in his late sixties now, but he is probably one of the most enduring stars of all time from the U.K. and what a credit to the business he is, remaining the same nice unaffected guy that he always was.

Our sincerest thanks to him and Linda for the photos taken at their local beach, near their home.

Al Miquet says Hi

9th May 2007

The former golden boy of wrestling : Al Miquet has emailed from his home in Spain to say Hello to all his buddies and particularly wishes to make contact with his old tag partner : Jon Cortez often regarded as one of the greatest lightweight wrestlers of all time. Jon has not been to the Reunions since the sad death of his beloved brother : Peter, but everyone would love to hear from him.

Al, ( still a handsome devil) raises horses in Malaga, and is the Son of that immortal star : Don Mendoza an old Reunion stalwart along with his pal, the late and great 'Bronco' Jack Cassidy. The 'Don' used to visit the Sierras up until his death a few years ago, along with 'Dazzler himself, Joe Cornelius.

If any of the boys wish to contact or email Al, please contact us and we shall put you in touch.

Russell Plummer to write for Reunion

9th May 2007

Celebrated writer and journalist : Russell Plummer who has been involved in writing and photographing wrestling for 50 years this season, has kindly volunteered to write for the Reunion newsletter summer edition, currently being prepared.

He will be writing about his experiences over the last half century and should make great reading.

Currently, Russell produces the glossy magazine for Brian Dixon's 'Big-Time' All Star wrestling, and for those interested in the current scene, it is a must have publication.

Other contributors will be the great legendary and popular heavyweight grappler : Colin Joynson, welterweight super-star : Eddie Hamill known better as 'The amazing Kung Fu'

and the fans corner will be handled by 'Old Seniles' David Franklin, and former M.C. and referee :Ian Dowland.

John Harris in Hospital

9th May 2007

Much loved M.C. and Referee : John Harris who has been fighting a courageous battle against cancer, has been admitted to Hospital near his Spanish home, where the Chemotherapy has been ceased, due to 'The Captain's' weak condition and because it has caused severe internal bleeding.

Partner Steve who has been constantly at John's bedside, says that it is time to allow things to take their course.

Both of the boys are in everyone's thoughts and prayers, and there is a lengthy 7 page tributes thread on the forum of 1stop wrestling, where many of his friends and colleagues have written poignant messages of hope. (1stopwrestling.co.uk then go to forums at top of page, followed by British wrestling section, then John Harris in Hospital thread.)

Bobby Barnes has requested that we particularly pass on his and fellow former cancer sufferer: Adrian Street's best wishes to the 'Captain' and Steve.

Thank you

Mr. Big-Roy Parks fights cancer

8th May 2007

World of Sport star : Roy Parks who wrestled as 'Mr. Big' is having a course of radiotherapy to combat cancer which has attacked his lungs. All his fans and friends at the Reunion wish him well in his fight against this terrible disease.

Masambula Dies

( Masambula versus Ken Cadman )

It is with the greatest sadness that we announce the death of that immortal African star : Masambula , who passed away into the great Dressing room in the sky during the second week of March 2007 .

Known to his friends and colleagues as Masam, this statuesque warrior who was nearly ninety died of natural causes peacefully in his sleep, but life had been difficult for the former World of Sport legend who was wheelchair bound for over twenty years, following a dreadful accident in a bout against 'Judo' Pete Roberts, when a bodyslam from Roberts caused the ring to break, severing Masambula's spine.

One of the original superstars from the fifties and sixties this great athlete with the traditional animal skin headress will be missed by all who were touched by him.

May you rest in peace safe in the knowledge that you entertained millions of fans over a long and great career.

10th April 2007

JOHN HARRIS seriously ill

25th March 2007

We are very sad to confirm that the much loved Ring Announcer/Referee: JOHN HARRIS, is seriously ill at his home in Spain, where he is undertaking a course of chemotherapy.

John , who courageously battled cancer some years ago, was recently re-admitted into Hospital for an exploratory operation, where he was told that the disease had returned.

His long term partner : Steve informs us that John hopes to be well enough for a return trip to the U.K. in the Summer, originally booked for June 10th, where he hopes to hook up with all his old pals, although this trip now looks unlikely following a setback during the chemo session, necessitating a blood transfusion and admission to Hospital.

Every wrestler who has ever worked with this great man, and every fan who ever witnessed him weave his magic, will want to wish him a speedy recovery. If anyone can fight this thing with a positive attitude, it is the 'Captain'

Our prayers and thoughts are with both men constantly.

Tribute to Joe Williams

18th March 2007

It has recently been brought to our attention , that the well loved referee star of WAW : JOE WILLIAMS passed away in October 2006, following a brave battle against bladder cancer.During his struggle against this terrible disease, Joe kept his sense of humour and went on working the shows until his untimely death, refusing to take pain killers right to the bitter end. Julia Hamer a.k.a. Ladies wrestling Champion :Sweet Saraya was devastated, as she shared a close friendship with their favourite referee, and felt compelled to put pen to paper writing this poignant poem in dedication to the great man.

Everyone at the Wrestlers Reunion and all our readers Nationwide offer both deepest and sincerest sympathies to his family, colleagues and many friends. Joe was one of the most respected and influential wrestling referees of the present era and his premature demise will be a major blow to the wrestling fraternity, especially Ricky Knight, Sweet Saraya and all the team at WAW.

When I think of Joe, I have to smile, he was an exceptional man,
Our referee in black and white, descended from a fan.
He loved his wrestling with a passion, he never missed a show,
When we asked him to referee, he got the inner glow.
He did his job and more besides, with passion and with love,
A true professional to the very end, he fitted like hand in glove.
His personality and hilarious comments drove us in our work,
He'd be round our house to load the ring, of work he'd never shirk.
He made us laugh with his snide remarks, across hundreds and thousands of miles,
He'd rant and rave at everyone but always ended it with smiles.
He would take no shit from anyone, whether royalty or dossers,
Because as far as he's concerned 'They're all a bunch of tossers'.
So when you think of Joe don't grieve, don't cry or be upset,
Celebrate the fact that this amazing man you met.
Cause Joe is looking down on us and thinking out aloud,
That wrestling was his life and we made him very proud.
Alf Garnett and Victor Meldrew had nothing on our Joe,
I know we'll meet in another time we are sad you had to go.
We'd like to say on alls behalf how lucky and proud we are
To have been part of your life the best referee by far.

Goodbye my friend x

Eddie Hamill -Amazing Kung Fu to write for Reunion

We are very proud to announce that Welsh Super star EDDIE HAMILL known the world over as AMAZING KUNG FU is the latest great wrestler to swap his grappling skills for the pen and joins an ever increasing band of writers to produce the regular Britsh Wrestlers Reunion Newsletter team.

His first contribution will appear in the forthcominbg edition and is packed with quips, anecdotes and tales of the star wrestlers on their world wide travels to entertain you.

16th March 2007

Note to Ian Dowland and David Mantell

Would Ian Dowland and David Mantell plus any other wrestlers/ officials/fans who visit the Reunion and haven't received anything from us, please contact the Organisers as we do not appear to have a record of your addresses to send the last newsletter or next years invitations.

Please email in confidence to Wayne, Sarah or Frank at the site email address.

Thanks.

Reunion Newsletter.

The 2007 Spring edition of the Reunion Newsletter is currently being written and shall be available shortly.

To date we have received over three hundred and fifty subsriptions, with more being added daily.

Be sure to reserve your copies by emailing the site or contacting Wayne or Sarah Bridges on 01322-860588 ( between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.) Cost is only £5 per annum to receive all editions. All proceeds to the Reunion

Invitations to the Function remain FREE and will sent under separate cover.

We also welcome new contributors with their stories, anecdotes and memories of the great days, especially our loyal and enduring fans.

12th Jan. 2007

Marty Jones for 2007 Reunion

Heavyweight Super star turned Publican : MARTY JONES has accepted an invitation to attend the 2007 Southern Reunion where he will receive a life time achievement award.

Other honourees for awards include : Jim Breaks, Peter Szakacs, Vic Faulkner, Bert Royal, Ian Muir, Lee Bronson, Spencer Churchill, Barry Douglas, Crusher Mason ( posthumous)

Keep posted for more star names to follow, and please do send in your own nominations.

Happy New Year !!!

The Organisers and voluntary helpers of the British Wrestlers Reunion wish all our friends and colleagues a very Happy New Year and we look forward to your company in 2007

We further extend our gratitude for all the support and loyalty over the previous years.

Happy Wrestling everyone !!

Reunion newsletter

The latest newsletter has now been published and posted to all members.

If there is anyone who has not received this edition, please contact us by email with details of name and address etc..

Thankyou.

Rocco in his lair

Recently Reunion award Organiser and historian Paul Douglas took a trip to meet the Master of disaster himself : 'Rollerball' Rocco, high in his Mountain lair on the Island of Tenerife high above Los Cristianos.

There, he was priviliged to gain a lengthy rare and candid interview from the former World Champion giving a much sought after insight into the World of Professional Wrestling.

The historic meeting was filmed for DVD and can be purchased for the price of £15.99. All proceeds going to the Wrestlers Reunion.

Just send an email to this site and we shall be pleased to place an order for you.

See Rocco's secret home in the hills and hear him spill the beans on his former colleagues with hilarious antidotes and yarns. Take a car ride with him to his luxurious offices downtown.

Nowadays the legendary grappler is one of Tenerife's most prominent Estate Agents, and anyone wishing to discuss property in this popular Island, can also email us for contact.

This is an opportunity for all Mark Rocco fans not to be missed, so get emailing now !!

Sarah Bridges bitten by venomous spider

Reunion Treasurer: Sarah Bridges wife of former World Heavyweight Champion: Wayne Bridges was recently rushed into hospital having suffered a suspected spider bite to her upper arm, which poisoned her whole system. Following a course of strong antibiotics, the reigning Miss Great Britain is fortunately now on the mend although not able to train fully for the next few weeks. Sarah who is the largest lady bodybuilder in the world and a budding actress having starred with Nick Nolte in 'The Good Thief ' was devastated as she is sponsored by two leading Companies and is fully booked as a circuit judge in the physique world, She has had to cancel several engagements including a guest spot in the States on old pal Arnold Swarzeneggers Classic.

Hubby Wayne who is Sarahs mentor and who is himself still recuperating from his spinal operation last month said yesterday 'Things can only get better for us, next season, at this rate of recovery, I may even consider a comeback to wrestling !' Here is hoping both of you are back in fighting form soon.

Editors note : It was a brave spider that thought he could beat the Amazonian Lady with a single bite!!

Hugh Mungus off to World Sumo Championships

Away from the square ring, NWA Heavyweight Champion Pro wrestler Hugh Mungus who weighs in at a mighty 36 stones, is an avid Sumo wrestler, and is flying to Tokyo in Japan, where he will compete in the World Championships this month. Hugh is a much sought after heel grappler in the U.K.and was featured recently on the Ant and Dec show when the boys tried their luck at the age old Japanese Martial art of Sumo.

Hailing from Dartford , Kent, this awesome looking giant is a genial and modest indivual outside the ring, who always supports both the Reunion and the Dropkixx Wrestling Academy where he invariably can be found giving the pupils advice and technique training.

Everyone in the Wrestlers Reunion wish him well in his endeavours, but whether he wins a medal or not, either way he will do Great Britain proud.

The Maestro still has it !!!

Although this photo is a year old, we thought that you may like to see the immortal 'man we love to hate' : Mick McManus at an incredible 81 years young still able to turn on the magic, when he helped launch the recent successful ITV World of Sport DVD . The Times reporter who was on the receiving end of this headlock could not believe the power that the legendary star still had, nor his amazing agility when he leapt up into the ring just as he did twenty years ago.

During a coffee break at a club next door, the journalist asked Mick what it felt like to have had friends such as the Beatles and the Duke of Edinburgh during his hey day, and then to be retired and forgotten out of the limelight.. Just at that moment there appeared a bowls club outing and the great man was suddenly besieged by fans asking for his autograph. With his usual dry wit, Mick retorted "Nothing changes pal !! " proving without doubt that McManus is probably the biggest wrestling household name that Great Britain has ever produced without exception.

Hard to believe that this legend started his career in the forties, entertaining audiences for nearly sixty years !!!

Long may you reign for many more years Mick.

Tony and Roy St Clair

Tony St. Clair continues to improve, following his recent stroke and is happily back home and able to walk and talk once more. he is even writing on the net and maybe will send an article to this site in the near future.

Brother Roy has been constantly on standby to fly over and speaks to his brother daily.

The photo was taken just prior to Tony being struck down and shows both the great legends looking fabulously close and in great shape.

Sons of the immortal star : Francis St Clair Gregory, both lads have carved a place in the annals of wrestling as two of the greatest grapplers during the World of Sport era, and apart from retaining a down to earth approach to friends and fans alike, have been a credit to our business for over thirty years.

Long may they enjoy good health and accept our gratitude for the wonderful memories that they have given their fans over the years.

Two of wrestling's truly nice guys !!

Last photo of the Late lamented Johnny Kwango

This poignant photo is the last known epitaph to the late lamented supstar: Johnny Kwango, shortly before his early demise from cancer. The picture was donated by Joe D'Orazio featured here during a visit to the great man.

Did you know that Johnny was brother to 'Black' Butcher Johnson and also a gifted dancer and classical pianist ???

May he R.I.P safe in the knowledge that he was one of our most revered and deeply loved wrestlers.

Max and Brian Crabtree

Great to see Max and Brian Crabtree, seen here with Johnny Kidd during a recent visit, looking so well in their beloved Yorkshire Dales where they are living in quiet retirement and doing a spot of farming. The Business is not the same without the likes of larger than life brother Shirley ( Big Daddy), but it is good to know that the two impresarios are still full of life. Perhaps they will honour us with a visit to the Reunion one of these years in the not too distant future ??

Tony Charles says HI

'Tonypandy Terror' Tony Charles has written to request that we say Hi to all his old buddies in the wrestling game.

The great man who was a Commonwealth games medalist and one of the greatest Pro wrestlers in the U.K.emigrated to Northern Florida in 1981 with his old pal and fellow Welshman : Adrian Street, and hasnt looked back since.

A great friend of the legendary Karl Gotch who is now a very fit 84 years young, Tony still works out with the Indian clubs and keeps his hand in with the assistance of Karl who still pulls around.For a man in his late sixties, he certainly looks awesome !!

Although the recent hurricanes gave his lovely home a battering and flooding, he assures us that all is well now, and wants to wish everyone associated with the Reunion a very big HELLO !!

Great to hear from you Tony.

British Wrestlers Reunion

Strengthening the Ring of Friendship

*REUNION* AUGUST 8TH APPROACHES

Johnnie and Annie Riley at Buckingham Palace

Wayne Bridges and Jon Ritchie on BBC 'One Show'

Andre Baker Funeral details

RAY FURY FOR THE 2010 REUNION

IF YOU LIKE WRESTLING,YOU WILL LOVE THIS SHOW

BRIAN DIXON CELEBRATES 40 YEARS AS U.K. LEADING PROMOTER

ANDRE BAKER DEAD AT 45

Legendary Boxer -GEORGE COOPER laid to rest

George Cooper

George Cooper, who died on April 11 aged 75, was the identical twin of the nation's best-loved heavyweight boxer Henry Cooper and shared the highs and lows of his brother's long career in the ring.

Jack Taylor dies

Kinkers does it again !!

Johnny Kincaid: Wrestling's Ring Side Seat

John Kincaid

From International Wrestler to Pubs and Punters

Johnny Kincaid

JOE QUESICK DEAD

DENNIS LORD TO JOIN REUNION SITE

Rik 'Judo' Sands

Szakacs fights back

Scot Conway in Thailand

Memories of Belle Vue

Dropkixx Wrestling In Westminster!

Jonny Storm and Ricky Knight in Takeley

HEW LIVING ON A PRAYER 6 - The 6th Anniversary

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IPW-U.K. in Sittingbourne

IPW:UK Sittingbourne Spectacular 2010

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Jolly Beggar Club Coventry

SZAKACS LATEST

WAW wrestling Tour

Wrestling in Morley

IPW wrestling this weekend in Kent

18th February 2010

IPW:UK "No Escape 2010" - Wrestling In Sittingbourne, Kent!

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TONY 'BANGER' WALSH

LEGENDS SPECTACULAR

CHIC LINTON DIES

'Banger' Walsh in heart scare

Mel Stuart blows hot and cold

REUNION CHRISTMAS CARDS

LEGENDS GATHER FOR CHRISTMAS

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

PETER SZAKACS UPDATE

HEW Presents: A Controversial Christmas - Saturday 19th December

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Peter Szakacs suffers stroke

Jean O'Sullivan loses Son

Rock 'n' Wrestling

NIK BALI PARALYSED

The Legends are coming !!!

DENNIS MCnAMARA dies

PRINCE OF WALES-ORIG WILLIAMS DEAD

Former wrestler El Bandito dies

Death of a legend

WAYNE BRIDGES ANNOUNCEMENT

Reunion report from Jo Huckle

BERT AND MARJORIE ASSIRATI TOGETHER FOREVER

Reunion report by Ray Plunkett

WE ARE BACK !!!

The Reunion

Mrs Assirati dies

Mad Fred Dies

Tony Rowney Dead

Jim Thomas Dies

Japanese Legend Dead

Pukka One to Semi Retire

Judo Al Hollamby

Mickey Rourke to appear at Lakeside show.

LDN show Maidstone -Feb 20

Stefan Milla dead

Ray Clark Book

Chris Adams

Johnny Kidd Wrestler of the Year for Premier

Kincaide and Davies on the Radio!

REUNION AUGUST 8TH APPROACHES