And so the journey began...
I walked into the Ballston Area Community Center and bought my front row ticket. A $15 price tag that I found to be more than a value. The venue was probably 3/4 capacity with around 100 fans in attendance. When I arrived I quickly made the assumption that this was a more kid friendly promotion than what I was hoping for, based off of the number of youngsters running around before bell time and the "kids under 5 get in free" deal and was just as quickly proven wrong by the time the show ended. Yes. In Your Face Wrestling is kid friendly. But it's not just kids stuff. I should also make clear before digging into the play by play that the other huge appeal of In Your Face Wrestling events are the other fans. It seems the promotion has gained a loyal and rabid, mature following. Wrestlers I had never heard of got huge reactions. The interaction between wrestler and fan was just so much fun to be a part of and I will freely admit to getting swept into the fellowship of the crowd. There were more than a handful of front row seats open throughout the show -- and I have to admit to liking having a few seats to myself and a little extra breathing room. Well worth the extra $3 asked for.
Some gripes to also get out of the way; the BACC's audio system took away from the presentation in some places. The in ring promos, at times, were unintelligible and the crowd wasn't afraid to let the workers know it, with "We Can't Hear You" chants drowning out the crackling, muffled PA. Intermission was a miss also. Once the woman (no way i could catch her name) got on the mic interviewing wrestlers and fans and working the raffle it, again, was a painful experience. I wouldn't have known if I had won anything if I had. My only other gripe would be the ring apron. It sorta looked like giant trash bags hanging from the mat. Plain black cloth would have looked better, if that becomes an option. It, in my opinion, is an eyesore that should be an early priority to remedy.
But now I guess I am being picky.
The show began with a title match. The IYFW New Breed Champion, "The Pillar" Roman Dominguez took on young Shiloh Robinson in a non title match. This was a surprisingly hard hitting match, with both men displaying some impressive skills inside and outside the ring. It ended with Robinson shocking Dominguez with a roll-up and a victory - his FIRST victory.
I walked into the Ballston Area Community Center and bought my front row ticket. A $15 price tag that I found to be more than a value. The venue was probably 3/4 capacity with around 100 fans in attendance. When I arrived I quickly made the assumption that this was a more kid friendly promotion than what I was hoping for, based off of the number of youngsters running around before bell time and the "kids under 5 get in free" deal and was just as quickly proven wrong by the time the show ended. Yes. In Your Face Wrestling is kid friendly. But it's not just kids stuff. I should also make clear before digging into the play by play that the other huge appeal of In Your Face Wrestling events are the other fans. It seems the promotion has gained a loyal and rabid, mature following. Wrestlers I had never heard of got huge reactions. The interaction between wrestler and fan was just so much fun to be a part of and I will freely admit to getting swept into the fellowship of the crowd. There were more than a handful of front row seats open throughout the show -- and I have to admit to liking having a few seats to myself and a little extra breathing room. Well worth the extra $3 asked for.
Some gripes to also get out of the way; the BACC's audio system took away from the presentation in some places. The in ring promos, at times, were unintelligible and the crowd wasn't afraid to let the workers know it, with "We Can't Hear You" chants drowning out the crackling, muffled PA. Intermission was a miss also. Once the woman (no way i could catch her name) got on the mic interviewing wrestlers and fans and working the raffle it, again, was a painful experience. I wouldn't have known if I had won anything if I had. My only other gripe would be the ring apron. It sorta looked like giant trash bags hanging from the mat. Plain black cloth would have looked better, if that becomes an option. It, in my opinion, is an eyesore that should be an early priority to remedy.
But now I guess I am being picky.
The show began with a title match. The IYFW New Breed Champion, "The Pillar" Roman Dominguez took on young Shiloh Robinson in a non title match. This was a surprisingly hard hitting match, with both men displaying some impressive skills inside and outside the ring. It ended with Robinson shocking Dominguez with a roll-up and a victory - his FIRST victory.
 |
| Shiloh Robinson has his arm raised for the very first time. Can he do it again on June 25th? |
The crowd literally erupted in unison at his win and Dominguez was visibly angry. Livid even. At intermission, some time later, Dominguez could be seen milling through the small crowd dressed in a shirt, tie, blazer, and shredded jeans with the belt over his shoulder. His face was a scowl but I still offered, "Good match, champ." He barely acknowledged me and pressed on. I am pumped for June 25th when the two will face off again, this time with the IYFW New Breed title in the line. But that's a column for another day.
Up next was a tag match featuring the mammoth Super Beast in an unlikely pairing with the very italian Rocco Perrelli against CJ Scott and fan favorite Big Vigo. This match was so-so. I was impressed by Superbeast and dug his gimmick of simply barking at people, although the sweat stain left on his ring tights was ultimately distracting. Vigo was way over with the kids. The heels worked CJ over most of the match, building to a hot tag for Vigo who quickly cleared the ring and took control... Until Pierre Vachon made his way down to ringside and took Vigo's valet and dragged her down the aisle. This distracted Vigo long enough for Superbeast and Perrelli to steal a win. Apparently, Vigo and Vachon have been embroiled in a simmering feud for months with the storyline being that IYFW officials won't book the one on one match between them due to the liability involved. They despise each other THAT much. Hmmm.
Following the tag match the PA system issues came into play as announcer. Walt Ball, got in the ring and introduced the company's new authority figure, Harold Toush'ole.
Up next was a tag match featuring the mammoth Super Beast in an unlikely pairing with the very italian Rocco Perrelli against CJ Scott and fan favorite Big Vigo. This match was so-so. I was impressed by Superbeast and dug his gimmick of simply barking at people, although the sweat stain left on his ring tights was ultimately distracting. Vigo was way over with the kids. The heels worked CJ over most of the match, building to a hot tag for Vigo who quickly cleared the ring and took control... Until Pierre Vachon made his way down to ringside and took Vigo's valet and dragged her down the aisle. This distracted Vigo long enough for Superbeast and Perrelli to steal a win. Apparently, Vigo and Vachon have been embroiled in a simmering feud for months with the storyline being that IYFW officials won't book the one on one match between them due to the liability involved. They despise each other THAT much. Hmmm.
Following the tag match the PA system issues came into play as announcer. Walt Ball, got in the ring and introduced the company's new authority figure, Harold Toush'ole.
 |
| IYFW Management Rep, Harold Toush'ole. Not sure what's up with the light-up necklace. |
Toush'ole quickly made it clear that a.) it's pronounced toosh-olay not touch-hole, b.) he hates women's wrestling and IYFW fans won't be seeing any under his watch, and c.) he has no tolerance for the title defense methodology employed by reigning IYFW Heavyweight Champion, Guillaume deSade. Apparently the champ likes to get dq'd in order to retain his belt. At a recent show in Saratoga Springs, deSade retained by getting counted out of the ring AND the building. I guess he ran through a fire door, hopped in a car, and sped away into the night with the coveted title in hand, leaving challenger, Bobby Fish stunned in the ring. Toush'ole announced that fan favorite, Drake Evans, would get his title shot tonight... And that he had ordered the referee to NOT DQ deSade if he's clearly looking for it.
Again, the mic issues came into play during this exchange, but I enjoyed it for what it was and look forward to being the first person to start a "HARRY TOUCHHOLE" chant at the next show - which is clearly what they're looking for. I'm gonna give it to 'em.
After some research, I learned that Toush'ole is played by former IYFW wrestler, Good Lord Willing, so I imagine we will see him get physical at some point. His role is interesting to me because it isn't clear yet what his intent is. He came across as a heel with the name schtick and the "no women's wrestling!" deal... But his attitude towards uber heel deSade surprised me. Maybe he's just a dick who likes real competition? I could get behind that.
Again, the mic issues came into play during this exchange, but I enjoyed it for what it was and look forward to being the first person to start a "HARRY TOUCHHOLE" chant at the next show - which is clearly what they're looking for. I'm gonna give it to 'em.
After some research, I learned that Toush'ole is played by former IYFW wrestler, Good Lord Willing, so I imagine we will see him get physical at some point. His role is interesting to me because it isn't clear yet what his intent is. He came across as a heel with the name schtick and the "no women's wrestling!" deal... But his attitude towards uber heel deSade surprised me. Maybe he's just a dick who likes real competition? I could get behind that.
Another tag match was next pitting major asshole, Adam Badger and his mystery partner against The Uprising; the team of fan favorite "Loverboy" Ricky Williams and Badger's nemesis from wrestling school, Jamar "Magic" Justice. I call Badger a major asshole because it needs to be said. He played his role perfectly and had the crowd DESPISING him, shocking them with his loud F bombs dropped to little kids and flying middle fingers. This was a fun, fast paced match that saw Badger try to avoid an interaction with Jamar Justice as best he could. His partner surprised the crowd in former fan favorite turned meanie, Michael Monroe. Monroe was slick in the ring and also played the heel role well with great reaction when the crowd (yes, on my prompting) chanted "tighty whiteys" at the appearance of his underwear showing under his wind pants. It was good stuff. The vulgar Adam Badger and his fruit of the loom wearing new friend picked up the surprising win after Ricky Williams was taken totally out of the match, getting knocked out outside the ring, leaving "Magic" to fend for himself, to no avail. A good match that showcased Williams and Monroes in ring quality and the bad blood between Badger and Justice.
 |
| Ricky Williams ducks under a wild lariat from the returning Michael Monroe. |
Next was hugely over Bobby Ocean taking on the brother of the late Luna, Pierre Vachon. This was clearly a battle of mismatched style, with the quick, fluid Ocean against the powerful brute Vachon. The vocal (and drunk) fans behind me were all about Bobby Ocean, which made this more fun to watch. I've heard mixed reviews on Ocean's ring work but I found myself impressed with how well their styles meshed on this night. Of course, this match would end early with an appearance by Big Vigo, who drew Vachon out of the ring long enough to earn a count out loss, which kept the fans happy.
Intermission followed, giving me a chance to stretch my legs, interact with a handful of wrestlers who circulated through the venue, and get in on the raffle that offered prizes including cash, some dvd's, and ringside seats for the "Coronation Cup" event at the end of June. (Update: I didn't win jack.)
Action resumed with a lack-luster 3-way bout featuring mini-ninja, Vyper, squaring off against "The Millennium Millionaire" Scott Scarsdale and the very odd Ian Daniels. Daniels is a weird dude, to say the least. He runs with a straight edge type of gimmick, yet appears to be strung out on something stronger than cough syrup. The action in this match was hit or miss and ended with Scarsdale, who spent 80% of the match outside the ring waiting for his moment, picking up the win. As I have mentioned, I have done some research on the company and it appears that Scarsdale (along with Evans) are the promoters/bookers for IYFW so I suppose it's no surprise he got the nod here. My only critique of the match is that I'm not sure what story they were trying to tell with it. But, again... This was my first exposure to the promotion, so what do I know?
Next was my favorite match of the night. The International Ego Trip, IYFW Tag Team Champions, Fronz Roddy and The Northern Studd, took on the Celtic Crew. I couldn't tell you how this match went. I was entertained through the whole match by the antics of heel Mighty Fronz Roddy on the ring apron. Simply put: he is my favorite performer in this promotion, bar none. He and I had more than one verbal exchange during the match that had my section of the crowd laughing our collective asses off. On top of his performance I was TRULY impressed by the Celtic Crew's athleticism. Liam McFerrin is a big, heavy dude. And he moved with ease and confidence. Loved, loved, loved the vibe of this match. These four guys literally swept the crowd up and took them for a ride.
As an aside, I have since found Fronz Roddy on Facebook and friend requested him. He hasn't accepted it yet but, wildly enough, it's pending and I still have moderate access to his profile and wall. He seems like a genuinely good dude. If he ever reads this... Big fan... Big fan. Accept my request, holmes! I promise not to be creepy about it. Ha.
Finally came the Main Event. I was intrigued to finally see deSade in action, as I had seen him on and off advertised for IYFW appearances over the years on TV (very effective tv spots that air during WWE and TNA programming) and was the one guy who's name I recalled. The IYFW Heavyweight Championship title was on the line with fan favorite Drake Evans getting another deserved shot. The story of the match was simple. DeSade was determined to get disqualified no matter what. Constant low blows. Not breaking submissions while Evans was tied into the ropes. Closed fists, ignoring the referees warnings. But the ref stuck to Toush'ole's earlier decree, ignoring deSade's flagrant attempts to manipulate the rules to his own end. The match wore on and finally Evans gained the upper hand, which caused deSade to duck out of the ring and head for the exits. But THIS time the fans weren't having it! No shit, a handful of die hard IYFW fans got out of their chairs and BLOCKED the EXITS! So awesome.
That allowed Evans to get his hands back on deSade, bring it back to the ring, and try to secure the win. But, damnit, deSade grabbed his belt and BLASTED Evans in the head with it. The referee finally had seen enough and called for the bell. Apparently, he'd seen enough. DeSade celebrated... Until out came Harry Touchhole himself, IYFW's new man in charge. He promptly stripped deSade of the prized belt to a huge pop from the crowd. DeSade, for lack of a better word, lost it in the ring, effectively destroying the coveted title belt before leaving like a child.
In the following weeks it was announced that the 8-man tournament held at the June 25th Coronation Cup will decide a NEW IYFW Heavyweight Champion, the winner if which will also receive a brand new title belt! Other matches announced include the return match for the New Breed title between Roman Dominguez and Shiloh Robinson and appearances by the International Ego Trip, the return of The Killer Steves, and more. They've also recently announced some participants in the big tourney, but again that's a column for another day. You can check out the lineup and more over at In Your Face Wrestling's official website.
Have I mentioned I am psyched for June 25th yet?
Intermission followed, giving me a chance to stretch my legs, interact with a handful of wrestlers who circulated through the venue, and get in on the raffle that offered prizes including cash, some dvd's, and ringside seats for the "Coronation Cup" event at the end of June. (Update: I didn't win jack.)
Action resumed with a lack-luster 3-way bout featuring mini-ninja, Vyper, squaring off against "The Millennium Millionaire" Scott Scarsdale and the very odd Ian Daniels. Daniels is a weird dude, to say the least. He runs with a straight edge type of gimmick, yet appears to be strung out on something stronger than cough syrup. The action in this match was hit or miss and ended with Scarsdale, who spent 80% of the match outside the ring waiting for his moment, picking up the win. As I have mentioned, I have done some research on the company and it appears that Scarsdale (along with Evans) are the promoters/bookers for IYFW so I suppose it's no surprise he got the nod here. My only critique of the match is that I'm not sure what story they were trying to tell with it. But, again... This was my first exposure to the promotion, so what do I know?
Next was my favorite match of the night. The International Ego Trip, IYFW Tag Team Champions, Fronz Roddy and The Northern Studd, took on the Celtic Crew. I couldn't tell you how this match went. I was entertained through the whole match by the antics of heel Mighty Fronz Roddy on the ring apron. Simply put: he is my favorite performer in this promotion, bar none. He and I had more than one verbal exchange during the match that had my section of the crowd laughing our collective asses off. On top of his performance I was TRULY impressed by the Celtic Crew's athleticism. Liam McFerrin is a big, heavy dude. And he moved with ease and confidence. Loved, loved, loved the vibe of this match. These four guys literally swept the crowd up and took them for a ride.
As an aside, I have since found Fronz Roddy on Facebook and friend requested him. He hasn't accepted it yet but, wildly enough, it's pending and I still have moderate access to his profile and wall. He seems like a genuinely good dude. If he ever reads this... Big fan... Big fan. Accept my request, holmes! I promise not to be creepy about it. Ha.
Finally came the Main Event. I was intrigued to finally see deSade in action, as I had seen him on and off advertised for IYFW appearances over the years on TV (very effective tv spots that air during WWE and TNA programming) and was the one guy who's name I recalled. The IYFW Heavyweight Championship title was on the line with fan favorite Drake Evans getting another deserved shot. The story of the match was simple. DeSade was determined to get disqualified no matter what. Constant low blows. Not breaking submissions while Evans was tied into the ropes. Closed fists, ignoring the referees warnings. But the ref stuck to Toush'ole's earlier decree, ignoring deSade's flagrant attempts to manipulate the rules to his own end. The match wore on and finally Evans gained the upper hand, which caused deSade to duck out of the ring and head for the exits. But THIS time the fans weren't having it! No shit, a handful of die hard IYFW fans got out of their chairs and BLOCKED the EXITS! So awesome.
That allowed Evans to get his hands back on deSade, bring it back to the ring, and try to secure the win. But, damnit, deSade grabbed his belt and BLASTED Evans in the head with it. The referee finally had seen enough and called for the bell. Apparently, he'd seen enough. DeSade celebrated... Until out came Harry Touchhole himself, IYFW's new man in charge. He promptly stripped deSade of the prized belt to a huge pop from the crowd. DeSade, for lack of a better word, lost it in the ring, effectively destroying the coveted title belt before leaving like a child.
In the following weeks it was announced that the 8-man tournament held at the June 25th Coronation Cup will decide a NEW IYFW Heavyweight Champion, the winner if which will also receive a brand new title belt! Other matches announced include the return match for the New Breed title between Roman Dominguez and Shiloh Robinson and appearances by the International Ego Trip, the return of The Killer Steves, and more. They've also recently announced some participants in the big tourney, but again that's a column for another day. You can check out the lineup and more over at In Your Face Wrestling's official website.
Have I mentioned I am psyched for June 25th yet?
No comments:
Post a Comment