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? 

The Best of British Wrestling school based in Colchester, Essex will be re opening its doors on Sunday 7th December at the Birch Memorial Hall, Colchester, Essex.  The training session will begin at 6pm and will continue til late. 

The school closed its doors in the summer due to touring commitments but has found a new home and will be running EVERY Sunday.  Please get in contact if you wish to attend or for more information.

www.bestofbritishwrestling.com

 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

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 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. 

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.

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.

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

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

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)

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

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.

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. 

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.

10th August 2008

We have been informed of the sad death of Maurice Everett who was a well known and much loved referee for Anglian Promotions during the eighties. He was a family man and left us much too early at just 68 years old.

Our respect and condolences are offered to his family, as he joins our other legends in the dressing room in the sky.

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 )

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 !!! )

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.

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. 

21ST July 2008

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.

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. 

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.

26th June 2008

At last, we are able to release details and the brochure for the eagerly awaited weekend wrestling bonanza, set for the last weekend in October , and featuring some of the top names from the past and present world of wrestling. The brochure explains most of the things on offer, for this fabulous weekend of  grappling delights. More star names will be added to the itinary as the Season progresses, but is apt to change, due to injut ies and the very nature of the Business.

In addition to the advertised schedule, there will be featured bands and groups plus disco music in between the wrestling and training sessions, during the day, and in the evenings until late.

This is the first event of its kind in the U.K. and promises to be the start of a regular date to keep in the calendar.

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.

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.

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. 

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. 

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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'

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.

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

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

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.  

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 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.

(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)

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 !! 

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.

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.

12th March 2008

The Committee has had emails and photos from even more of the great grapplers of yesteryear that thrilled so many fans for so long.

Who could forget the likes of  the wonderful FRANK ROBB

or  'LORD' BERTIE SINCLAIR

What a great fraternity, that  finds these men and keeps in touch after so many years. Can't wait to see them at the 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.

  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

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.  

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.

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 !!!

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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 

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