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10 Questions, Maven's Return, Event Rescheduled, & More!

10 Questions, Maven's Return, Event Rescheduled, & More!

Tristen Law
September 28, 2023

8-12 minute reading time

Your Ticket to the Action!

What’s in Store This Week?

Welcome to this week's edition of Independent Pro Wrestling Weekly and we're diving into some exciting topics.

First up, we introduce you to our "10 Questions" segment, where we get up close and personal with pro wrestlers and those connected to the wrestling world. Our debut guest is the Comic Book Warrior himself, Gabe Baez.

We'll also cover a pro wrestling event that had to be rescheduled due to weather concerns, bringing you all the details.

But that's not all! WWE Tough Enough winner Maven is making a return to the ring, and we've got the scoop on his upcoming match.

On a sadder note, we'll discuss the cancellation of a pro wrestling show that's left fans disappointed.

And finally, we'll delve into the world of death match wrestling, exploring its unique flavor and appeal.

As always, don't forget to scroll to the bottom for posters of upcoming independent pro wrestling shows. Supporting indie wrestling is vital, as it's where many of today's main stream pro wrestlers got their start, and where some continue to make their mark.

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Death Matches Postponed for Safety

In the world of extreme professional wrestling, CZW's Tournament of Death has always been a visceral spectacle. However, this year, safety takes precedence as CZW announces the postponement of Tournament of Death XX from September 23 to October 7 due to inclement weather conditions forecasted for the original date.

This decision was made keeping in mind the safety and well-being of fans, participants, and everyone involved in this anticipated deathmatch extravaganza. With tropical storm warnings along the East Coast of the United States, including Townsend, Delaware, where the event was set to take place, CZW took a responsible step by rescheduling the event to ensure everyone's security.

CZW's dedication to their fans doesn't end with the postponement news. In an effort to make amends, they've come up with a generous offer. For those who have already purchased tickets to Tournament of Death XX, CZW is providing free admission to their Limelight 21 show scheduled for October 1st in Havre de Grace, Maryland. This gesture ensures that fans won't miss out on the intense CZW action they were eagerly anticipating.

But that's not all. CZW understands that fans were looking forward to the Tournament of Death Trophy and Field. To make up for the delay, they're offering a unique opportunity for a photo op with the coveted trophy and the tournament field, giving fans an up-close look at what's in store for this thrilling event.

Additionally, CZW has extended the option for refunds to those who prefer it. If you've already purchased your tickets but can't make it to the rescheduled event, CZW is accommodating refund requests, with the process set to be carried out after the event has concluded.

The safety and satisfaction of CZW's loyal fanbase remain their top priority. CZW is known for pushing the limits, but they also understand when to put safety first. By rescheduling Tournament of Death XX, offering alternative entertainment, and generous compensation for ticket holders, CZW has shown their commitment to creating a memorable and safe wrestling experience.

As we await the rescheduled Tournament of Death XX on October 7, let's appreciate CZW's dedication to their craft and their fans. The countdown to the extreme action and adrenaline-fueled thrills continues, but in the meantime, the safety of all involved comes first.

WWE Tough Enough Winner at ISPW 25

In the world of professional wrestling, the journey is often filled with unexpected twists and turns. This Friday, at the Totowa PAL in Totowa, New Jersey, fans will witness a remarkable moment as former WWE Superstar and Tough Enough winner, Maven, steps back into the squared circle. This monumental return is part of the Independent Superstars of Professional Wrestling's (ISPW) 25th Anniversary Show.

Maven, known for his tenure in WWE, where he won the inaugural Tough Enough competition in 2001, left an indelible mark on the wrestling world. After parting ways with WWE in 2005, he embarked on a new chapter in the independent wrestling scene. However, he eventually decided to hang up his boots and retire from active competition.

But as the saying goes, you can never say never in the world of professional wrestling. Two years ago, Maven made a surprising comeback, and since then, he's become a familiar face at ISPW events. Now, he's set to add another chapter to his storied career with his second match since coming out of retirement.

For this special occasion, Maven will be facing off against ISPW Ring Announcer Rich Reed in a tuxedo match. If you're not familiar with this unique stipulation, both competitors start the match dressed in tuxedos, and the goal is to strip your opponent down to their underwear. It's an entertaining and unpredictable bout that promises a good time for fans in attendance.

The ISPW 25th Anniversary Show is not just about Maven's return; it's a celebration of a quarter-century of wrestling excellence. The event will be headlined by WWE Hall of Famer Sgt. Slaughter and Marty Jannetty, and the main event will feature Richard Holliday defending the ISPW Heavyweight Title against former champion "The Superstar" Danny Morrison.

Additionally, there's an exciting lineup of matches, including Bull James taking on Afa Jr in a Dog Collar Match, Crowbar challenging Rey Calitri for the ISPW Tri-State Title with his original manager The Master in his corner, and many more thrilling bouts.

As an extra treat for fans, several original ISPW wrestlers, including Ace Darling, Judas Young, and JR Ryder, will make guest appearances, adding a nostalgic touch to the anniversary celebration.

Tickets for this historic event are available now at [ISPWWrestling.com](https://www.ispwwrestling.com/). Don't miss the chance to witness Maven's return to the ring, along with a night filled with incredible wrestling action and memorable moments. It's an event that no wrestling fan should miss, and it all goes down at the Totowa PAL in Totowa, New Jersey.

Starz Cancels Indie Wrestling TV Show

In the ever-evolving landscape of television, it's not uncommon to see beloved series come and go. Unfortunately, this trend continues as Starz recently announced the cancellation of "Heels" after just two seasons. While fans and critics alike have praised the show, the reasons behind its cancellation remain undisclosed.

"Heels," which premiered in 2021, quickly garnered attention for its unique premise and captivating storytelling. The series delves into the world of the Duffy Wrestling League, a small-town independent wrestling company in Georgia, and the lives of the individuals who chase their dreams within its confines. Led by stars Stephen Amell and Alexander Ludwig, "Heels" offered a gripping narrative that explored the complexities of family, rivalry, and legacy.

Stephen Amell portrayed Jack Spade, a character who inherited the wrestling league from his father. His portrayal of a conflicted and driven wrestling promoter drew praise from viewers and critics alike. Alexander Ludwig, playing the role of Jack's brother, Ace, added depth to the show's dynamic by portraying a talented wrestler torn between loyalty and ambition.

"Heels" also featured a talented ensemble cast, including Chris Bauer, Mary McCormack, Kelli Berglund, and more. The show's authenticity in portraying the world of independent professional wrestling was further emphasized by the inclusion of real-life wrestling stars. CM Punk and AJ Lee were among the wrestlers who made memorable appearances on the series.

The cancellation news comes as a surprise to many, especially since the second season of "Heels" recently concluded in September 2023. The show's dedicated fan base has expressed disappointment over the decision to discontinue the series.

"Heels" had successfully crafted a captivating narrative within the wrestling world, showcasing the struggles, rivalries, and dreams of its characters. The show's compelling storytelling and engaging characters resonated with viewers and left them eagerly anticipating each new episode.

In response to the cancellation, fans have taken to social media and various online platforms to voice their support for "Heels" and to express their desire to see the show continue. Many are urging Starz to reconsider its decision, emphasizing the significance of the series to both wrestling enthusiasts and television fans.

As the fate of "Heels" hangs in the balance, fans continue to rally together to show their support for the series. The online campaign aims to demonstrate the strong demand for the show and encourage Starz to reconsider its decision. If you're one of the fans who believe "Heels" deserves a chance to continue its gripping narrative, be sure to join the movement and let your voice be heard. Share your thoughts and support for the show online and let Starz know that you want "Heels" to stay in the ring!

The Flavor of Death Match Wrestling

As a pro wrestler and pro wrestling fan, I'll be honest—death match wrestling was never my cup of tea. It never quite captured my interest in the way traditional wrestling did. The sight of individuals subjecting themselves and each other to brutal punishment inside a wrestling ring didn't exactly appeal to me. Perhaps it was because, like many others, I had a regular job to show up to on Monday, and I wasn't eager to explain any unusual battle scars to my boss. Plus, the idea of having another human being or any creature bleed on me was far from enticing.

So, I stuck with what I knew—traditional pro wrestling, where the art of storytelling and athleticism took center stage. It seemed like the safer option, both for my body and my sanity.

However, in recent times Death match wrestling is popular. Death match wrestling clips began appearing on our Instagram page @ipwwnewsletter, and I must admit, they caught my attention — and the attention of our followers too as they rank as our most watched reels. While I may not be a full-fledged convert, it's become surprisingly easy to watch these snippets. There's a strange allure to it all.

I find myself amazed by the audacity of death match wrestlers as they smash and slam each other through fluorescent light tubes, rolling around in the shards as if they were breading for deep frying. How can pro wrestling remind me of a culinary process, like watching a chicken getting prepared for cooking?

What's more, it's not just a man's world. Women participate in death match wrestling too. I vividly recall a video on our Instagram page featuring a woman with skewers, the kind used for piercing shish kebabs, impaling her forehead. And it wasn't just one skewer—there were multiple. The level of commitment and sheer toughness on display is undeniably impressive.

Even some mainstream pro wrestling legends have dipped their toes into the world of death match wrestling. WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley and the late, great Terry Funk come to mind. Knowing their backgrounds in traditional wrestling makes their forays into this gritty subculture all the more intriguing.

Personally, I have friends on the indies who actively participate in death match wrestling, and while I support their endeavors, I can't help but watch their matches with one eye closed. The brutality is a stark departure from what I'm used to, but I can appreciate the passion and dedication these athletes bring to the ring.

Death match wrestling holds a unique place in the world of pro wrestling. It's almost underground, a niche within a niche. With the exception of organizations like Combat Zone Wrestling (CZW), you rarely see events for death match wrestling heavily publicized. It's almost as if it's a secret club, by invitation only. Yet, its underground status adds to its allure and mystique.

For someone like me, who has always preferred the more traditional side of pro wrestling, I now find myself dipping my toes into this darker, more extreme flavor of the sport—albeit in extremely small doses through the clips on our Instagram @ipwwnewsletter. It's like acquiring a taste for something entirely new, something that offers a different kind of adrenaline rush.

I encourage you to follow us on Instagram @ipwwnewsletter and check out our clips. While we primarily feature clips of traditional independent pro wrestling, you might stumble upon a few death match clips and discover a whole new side of pro wrestling that piques your interest.

Have you heard of death match pro wrestling, or are you a death match pro wrestler yourself? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Reach out to us at [email protected], and let's start a conversation about this unique and polarizing corner of the wrestling world.

10 Questions with Gabe Baez

In the world of professional wrestling, each grappler brings a unique backstory and style to the squared circle. Today, we embark on a journey to explore the profound experiences and insights of a rising star in the indie wrestling scene, Gabe Baez. Gabe, whose passion for wrestling is only rivaled by his love for comic books, graciously shares his story and perspective in response to our ten compelling questions. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of this talented performer.

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in professional wrestling, and how did you get started?

Gabe's wrestling journey is rooted in a desire to combat bullying, an issue that many can relate to. "What inspired me was the fact that it helped me cope with being bullied, and I wanted to do the same," Gabe recalls. His wrestling path began at IWF in Nutley, and later he transitioned to Team Adams Pro Wrestling.

2. Can you share some of your most memorable moments or matches in your wrestling career so far?

Throughout his career, Gabe has had his fair share of unforgettable moments. Among them, his tour in Calgary stands out as a pinnacle experience. "Being with the Hart Family, visiting historic sites like the Hart House and Stampede, as well as Owen Hart's grave, was honestly an amazing experience," Gabe fondly recounts.

3. Describe your wrestling style and any signature moves that you're known for.

Gabe's wrestling style is a fusion of technical prowess and strong-man brawling. He's known for flooring opponents with his spear and showcasing his strength by hoisting them high into the sky.

4. How do you prepare both mentally and physically for your matches, especially high-stakes ones?

For high-stakes matches, Gabe's preparation involves viking metal tunes and a touch of smelling salts to ignite his adrenaline, demonstrating the mental and physical dedication it takes to succeed in wrestling.

5. Who are some of your wrestling influences or role models, and how have they impacted your career?

Gabe's wrestling influences are rooted in the legends of the past. "I tape study a lot of Bret Hart; he mainly is the inspiration for how I wrestle," Gabe shares. As for role models, he credits wrestlers like Kid Chocolate and Tony Vincita for helping him understand how to improve mentally and physically.

6. Wrestling often involves a lot of travel. What are some of the most interesting or challenging places you've wrestled in?

Gabe's wrestling journey has taken him to intriguing locations, but Canada, with its unique experience, stands out. He recalls an amusing incident when he was asked at the Border why he was in Canada and ended up proudly displaying a championship he won.

7. The wrestling industry has evolved significantly over the years. How do you stay relevant and adapt to these changes?

To stay relevant in the ever-changing wrestling landscape, Gabe uses social media to showcase his character. "By posting mainly stuff that fits my character, like talking about which hero/villain would win in a fight, showing off my cosplays, or making new comics on my matches," he explains.

8. Wrestling fans can be passionate and dedicated. What's the most memorable fan interaction you've had?

Fan interactions hold a special place in Gabe's heart. He remembers a touching moment when a mother hugged him because his presence had brought joy and relief to her son, who was battling bullying.

9. Injuries are a part of professional wrestling. Can you share any experiences of overcoming injuries and returning to the ring?

Injuries are a part of a wrestler's life, and Gabe has had his share of setbacks. He vividly recalls a concussion that kept him out of action for three months. Despite the challenges, his determination to return to the ring burned brighter with each passing day.

10. What are your future goals and aspirations in the world of professional wrestling?

Looking ahead, Gabe envisions making a living solely through wrestling, merchandising, bookings, and perhaps as a public speaker sharing his inspiring journey. He seeks to motivate others to pursue their dreams.

As we peel back the layers and explore the multifaceted world of Gabe Baez, it becomes evident that he is more than just a wrestler; he's a symbol of resilience and inspiration. We wish him the best on his journey and look forward to seeing his star continue to rise in the professional wrestling universe.