Before I get to the good stuff, it's official, as of Monday, March 1st, 2009, I have returned to the world of Promoting Wrestling. It was a very easy decision for me, one that I had the opportunity to explore in Fall of 2008, but chose to wait until such a time that everything seemed right. My very close friend Shelley Ostrove was very instrumental in convincing me the time was right, and with his promoting experience in the fold, I felt the timing was completely right.
In conjunction with the announcement, I sat down and allowed myself to be interviewed by good friend (Sportscaster's name withheld due to contractual obligations with his employer). Here is a transcript of the interview:
Sportscaster: A very exciting time for you I'm sure, not only announcing you're returning to your Pro Wrestling roots as a promoter, but also re-inventing a brand that you've said numerous times you were very proud of, with The New AWE. Talk about what it's been like.
Mike Davidson: It was the easiest decision in the world to do this, and even easier to attempt to recreate the success that the original AWE had. Action Wrestling Entertainment of 2005 was able to secure Pay Per View Broadcasting clearance throughout Canada, and was one of the first Television contracts granted by The Fight Network. Action Wrestling Experience of 2009, can only hope to achieve success like that. So many times fans would bring up AWE and say they miss it, so now I am really excited to be bringing a reincarnated version of the brand back to life. It's a hugely exciting time for me.
SC: How can fans expect The New AWE to be different from either AWE of past or WFX Wrestling where you were an intricate part of it's operations?
MD: The New AWE will not be allowed to attempt some of the things AWE of the past did. In 2005, the original vision for AWE called for 6 PPV tapings bi-monthly to be cut into 12 PPV specials aired in Canada. But as we quickly found out, it grew like a wild fire, faster than as a company we were prepared for. As a result, we had a TV contract to produce weekly Television for The Fight Network, which is a great endorsement to our early success. But we were reactive and thought hiring more staff, and investing more in production and talent would lead us to the "BIG TIME", unfortunately it had negative effects, and killed the viability of the company. WFX is not something I'm really prepared to comment on because I believe it will still exist at some point in the not-so-distant future. Perhaps I will still be retained as a consultant, that hasn't been defined, but I do know that there is plan by the owner of WFX to produce events.
SC: Speak to the potential of competition if WFX say, is to continue running. How about even locally in the Winnipeg marketplace with Canadian Wrestling's Elite running successful monthly events, and even PCW a company you helped to create in 2002 running regularly. How will The New AWE compete?
MD: The owner of WFX remains a very good friend of mine, and has been very direct in his intent to not run in the same marketplace as AWE. Absolutely no competition whatsoever, we are extremely helpful to one another. I'm very proud of CWE, and don't consider them competition in the least. I respect their approach to business, and think that the marketplace will support both brands. If I can speak honestly about PCW, they will continue to do what they do. They can label The New AWE as competition, I'm sure there will be some concern on the part of their owner as to AWE's affect on the marketplace. The fans will support the brand which runs the best shows. Some fans will support all the shows too, and that's excellent.
SC: Mike you've always had a knack of finding the best "free agent" big name talent and getting them to come perform on your shows. What can the fans expect?
MD: More of the same. Definitely. I have some big plans of what some dream matches or appearances would be, and I intend to do it. I've already been working the phones, and there are some obvious guys who have been associated with my past events who will be brought back.
SC: Billy Gunn, Buff Bagwell and Rikishi...
MD: Oh quite likely. I'm happy to call all three friends of mine, and each one of them have been pivotal to the successes I have enjoyed.
SC: What will your core talent be?
MD: My regular talent will be guys that I would were instrumental in the AWE of 2005 success, but that we shy'd away from in WFX. Everybody has a chance in The New AWE, and I'm hoping with that belief in talent, they will produce the best results for the company.
SC: Adam Knight was apart of both AWE and WFX in the past. There is the obvious story where he punched you in a nightclub. Will he be invited to The New AWE?
MD: (Chuckling) I believe we will see Adam Knight in an AWE ring sooner than most think. Obviously there is a bridge to be mended there, but I'm most definitely not worried about it.
SC: Any parting shots before we conclude?
MD: In the coming month or so, I would expect updates on an almost daily basis. This is a very exciting, yet demanding time for this company, and I'm going to do everything humanly possible to ensure the success of this vision. PCW owner Andrew Shallcross has stated that I'm a failure, and that AWE and WFX were failures. So I've got a whole lot to prove and that's the way I like it. I don't take anything in this business personally, I have a very thick skin, but I have only one focus at this point in time. And that's entertaining fans so they dedicate themselves to the AWE brand.
SC: Lastly, when is the first show?
MD: Expect a formal announcement Monday, but the first show is the middle of April!
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
6 and 1/2 weeks without a blog! Damn it
I let time go. I didn't even notice that I had not wrote a blog. And that is completely uncharacteristic for me. Usually, especially in the volatile world of local pro wrestling, I like to stir something up, endorse something, bitch about something, or just say something to be heard. And then there is the world of sports, and Bomberland where so much has happened and yet, I've had so little to say. And Country Music, and ratings sweeps for General Hospital my favorite soap. And still... Nothing.
Well I wasn't ill, depressed or muzzled (as one egotistical local promoter suggested). And unlike that fellow, I am not too lazy to write a blog. Or a piece of shit as he calls everyone. And this blog is not an effort to stir it up even. Just touching base with the world.
I'm amazed at how many people suggest that my greatest efforts in wrestling were a failure. But I've covered that in other blogs. Let me say, I hope every single promoter one day gets to tackle the stress of producing a Pay Per View or secure a TV contract. I hope every promoter manages to secure nearly $10,000 in sponsors. If I wanted to run one venue for 5 years or more, and draw 80 people on my best night, and run with a crew shrinking by the day, I could have certainly survived 100 years promoting. Consider that I also would not have done any ring maintenance whatsoever, and no advertising or promoting, and never would I have booked a name. Just ran a local wrestling show, 5 matches, bad finishes, shitty angles, and no growth. I would have felt like the worlds biggest failure having done that. On the flip side, I made some of the greatest contacts ever, want me to book you a name? I'll get you the best rate on PO, an almost certain yes, never will I deal with a no-show, and for the most part I usually get the name's best performance. Unless your name is Rikishi, LOL. So looking back, I guess "surviving" seven years with a crew that with very few exceptions doesn't hold a whole lot of respect for me is the opposite of failing, I will wear my failure proudly.
Speaking of failing, Danny Duggan asked me to stop being involved with CWE. I no-showed his show last Friday night with short notice due to business commitments, and that was the reason for this. I wish him luck and offer my apology.
I think the Bombers are on pace, judging solely on their off season moves to be a 6-12 team. Our defence doesn't look near as good as last year, our Offensive line is so-so, and we have one hell of a quarterback dilemma. I think we should invite Casey Printers to camp, he could be an upgrade.
Bryan Murray, the GM of the Ottawa Senators is a complete buffoon. I believe Mike Comrie is a decent NHL forward capable of 20-30 goals annually. And Chris Campoli can move the puck from the defensive end. But a First Round Draft pick? Come on... That's almost certain to be a top 8 pick, and maybe even a top 5 pick. Well Bryan, nice knowing you. Hopefully for Sens fans, the Bob Nicholson/Pat Quinn Gm-Coach rumours ring true this summer.
Well I wasn't ill, depressed or muzzled (as one egotistical local promoter suggested). And unlike that fellow, I am not too lazy to write a blog. Or a piece of shit as he calls everyone. And this blog is not an effort to stir it up even. Just touching base with the world.
I'm amazed at how many people suggest that my greatest efforts in wrestling were a failure. But I've covered that in other blogs. Let me say, I hope every single promoter one day gets to tackle the stress of producing a Pay Per View or secure a TV contract. I hope every promoter manages to secure nearly $10,000 in sponsors. If I wanted to run one venue for 5 years or more, and draw 80 people on my best night, and run with a crew shrinking by the day, I could have certainly survived 100 years promoting. Consider that I also would not have done any ring maintenance whatsoever, and no advertising or promoting, and never would I have booked a name. Just ran a local wrestling show, 5 matches, bad finishes, shitty angles, and no growth. I would have felt like the worlds biggest failure having done that. On the flip side, I made some of the greatest contacts ever, want me to book you a name? I'll get you the best rate on PO, an almost certain yes, never will I deal with a no-show, and for the most part I usually get the name's best performance. Unless your name is Rikishi, LOL. So looking back, I guess "surviving" seven years with a crew that with very few exceptions doesn't hold a whole lot of respect for me is the opposite of failing, I will wear my failure proudly.
Speaking of failing, Danny Duggan asked me to stop being involved with CWE. I no-showed his show last Friday night with short notice due to business commitments, and that was the reason for this. I wish him luck and offer my apology.
I think the Bombers are on pace, judging solely on their off season moves to be a 6-12 team. Our defence doesn't look near as good as last year, our Offensive line is so-so, and we have one hell of a quarterback dilemma. I think we should invite Casey Printers to camp, he could be an upgrade.
Bryan Murray, the GM of the Ottawa Senators is a complete buffoon. I believe Mike Comrie is a decent NHL forward capable of 20-30 goals annually. And Chris Campoli can move the puck from the defensive end. But a First Round Draft pick? Come on... That's almost certain to be a top 8 pick, and maybe even a top 5 pick. Well Bryan, nice knowing you. Hopefully for Sens fans, the Bob Nicholson/Pat Quinn Gm-Coach rumours ring true this summer.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Strange World of Sports
If you believe the current rumours beginning to run wild within the NHL Hockey circles, the Phoenix Coyotes are a team on deaths door. Apparently, it's so bad financially in the desert that the team could be folded and the players subjected to a dispersal draft at season's end. Small whispers are starting to circulate throughout Winnipeg that the team could move here, call the MTS Centre home, and compete on the same scale as the Edmonton Oilers. I for one believe that the NHL in Winnipeg would be amazing and something I support, but the realist in me suggests we'd be no healthier than the Nashville Preditors in the economics of it all. In Nashville a huge pool of corporate sponsors invest major dollars in the Preds. In Winnipeg, I believe the NHL would be lucky to average 13000 fans. Sure there would be a fair share of sellouts, but there would also be those Wednesday nights with merely 11,500 in the building. So hope away, but be realistic on the notion of the Jets flying in Winnipeg again.
Brian Burke would say the Samuellis are the best owners in pro sports. Mike Shanahan said the same thing of Bronco's ownership. Bryan Murray must get down on all fours daily, pucker up and kiss Eugene Melnyk's bare ass. That is the only to explain and justify why a failure like that still has a job. And Craig Hartsburg sure makes John Padduck look like a Jack Adam's trophy winner for NHL Coach of the year.
WOW, speaking of sad state of affairs, what must the Tampa Bay Lightning be thinking? Brian Lawton has done such a lackluster job, and Rick Tocchet must be craving a new situation. Now they entertain the notion of trading Vinny Lecavalier? Hmmm... I'm sure there are more takers than just the Montreal Canadiens interested if the rumours are true.
Toronto Argos seem primed to name an NFL assistant coach with no CFL experience as their new head coach. Does anyone remember WAY back when, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers tried the same with Darryl Rogers? The results weren't that great.
I for one am sad to see Brendan Taman leave the Blue Bombers. It makes me hate the current regime that much more. Taman was a wonderful GM, who brought us Roberts, Brown, Khari and many other greats. He will be missed.
The economy is so bad and having a majorly negative affect all over the world, except the New York Yankees apparently. They spend money like they print it. Makes me wish I could be a Major League pitcher.
I was sad to see female's queen of curling Jennifer Jones lose to the men at last week's skins game.
Brian Burke would say the Samuellis are the best owners in pro sports. Mike Shanahan said the same thing of Bronco's ownership. Bryan Murray must get down on all fours daily, pucker up and kiss Eugene Melnyk's bare ass. That is the only to explain and justify why a failure like that still has a job. And Craig Hartsburg sure makes John Padduck look like a Jack Adam's trophy winner for NHL Coach of the year.
WOW, speaking of sad state of affairs, what must the Tampa Bay Lightning be thinking? Brian Lawton has done such a lackluster job, and Rick Tocchet must be craving a new situation. Now they entertain the notion of trading Vinny Lecavalier? Hmmm... I'm sure there are more takers than just the Montreal Canadiens interested if the rumours are true.
Toronto Argos seem primed to name an NFL assistant coach with no CFL experience as their new head coach. Does anyone remember WAY back when, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers tried the same with Darryl Rogers? The results weren't that great.
I for one am sad to see Brendan Taman leave the Blue Bombers. It makes me hate the current regime that much more. Taman was a wonderful GM, who brought us Roberts, Brown, Khari and many other greats. He will be missed.
The economy is so bad and having a majorly negative affect all over the world, except the New York Yankees apparently. They spend money like they print it. Makes me wish I could be a Major League pitcher.
I was sad to see female's queen of curling Jennifer Jones lose to the men at last week's skins game.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Stand By Your Man
As 2009 is ushered in, I figured there would be nothing better than to write a blog about something I know a thing or two about, something that has helped define who I am in my adult life. I'm 3 months shy of 30, and I've been in the LOCAL wrestling business since I was 16 years old. So given that I have 14 years dedicated to the business, what better thing to talk about first and foremost in 2009, than just that.
More specifically I wanted to offer a piece of advice to my good friend Andrew Shallcross, promoter of Premier Championship Wrestling, Winnipeg's finest LOCAL professional wrestling show. Andrew has used "Welcome To The Jungle" since the inception of the company in 2002 to start every single PCW show. It's an anthem, it suggests that the wrestlers who perform on the show are wild jungle like animals, and the environment is so crazy anything can happen (from the critique's I've heard lately, nothing unpredictable has happened, and it's severely compromised the theme of the jungle). So all holiday season long, I've been thinking, what would be a better anthem for my good friend's wrestling product, something that perfectly describes a theme for the show, and describes Premier Championship Wrestling, the thriving LOCAL wrestling company. So when PCW holds it's next show on Thursday night January 15th, at Dylan's on Pembina Highway, I encourage you all to check it out, and more than that, I encourage the PCW's brain thrust to change the anthem of the company to... "Stand By Your Man" the 1970's classic country mega-hit by the great Tammy Wynette.
Now before you wrestling fans, all of whom have a strong desire to post ridiculous things on my comment section under anonymous names, chastise me for bad taste in music, let me say I can think of nothing more fitting or entertaining than the sweet sound of Tammy Wynette wailing out a song that perfectly describes the blind loyalty a group of about 10 LOCAL wrestlers give Andrew K. Shallcross. Nothing underlined this point, better than about a week ago when Danny Duggan announced a plan to run Canadian Wrestling's Elite, a wrestling vision that is designed to only give the wrestling fan his best vision of how good pro wrestling in Manitoba could be showcased, and a couple of LOCAL wrestlers suggested that Danny seek out a discussion with Shallcross to ask permission and keep the peace before investing his personal money and promoting a wrestling event. This will likely get heat but Danny Duggan is probably the best booking mind in Manitoba right now, and has the most comprehensive knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of every LOCAL wrestler in Manitoba. So as a fan, I'd be very excited to see a very different wrestling product, on January 23, at Maples Community Club.
Getting back to the point. A group of seemingly blind LOCAL wrestlers, following a promoter who has lead them to the promised land of declining productivity. Andrew will pressure any LOCAL wrestler who performs for PCW by saying "be loyal to the team", when in reality he's demanding that you follow his blind and often stubborn lead at all costs, and mostly in the worst directions ever. Of course, Andrew will argue that he has the best "team" anywhere in Canada, and that his shows are still the most successful, I've even heard he has boldly made the claim that he's the best booker these parts have ever seen. Sure you are, and I'm the most religious person at the church each and every Sunday.
Lets review some of the choices he expects his "team" of LOCAL wrestlers to endorse, support and show unequaled loyalty to:
-Stiffing TNA superstars Samoa Joe and Chris Sabin on pay, because Joe wouldn't put Kenny Omega over, and ended the match in 8 minutes. So naturally, let's not pay Chris Sabin either, because, well because I'm not sure... Lets just stiff them. The result, it will be nearly impossible to ever bring a TNA wrestler to PCW, and quite likely short of the very credible endorsement of Kenny Omega, it will be virtually impossible to get any "name" superstar in the wrestling business to accept a booking from PCW. (Andrew, pucker up and kiss Kenny's feet, because you owe him big, and if you aren't happy with the match from Kenny's contact, don't stiff him no matter what).
-Entering into an absolutely useless agreement with CWF promoter Ernie Todd, one that I accurately predicted would not work, and would accomplish Jack Diddly shit. In the meantime, Todd and Shallcross in an effort to power play with their misguided projection of market dominance attempted to blackball Danny Duggan, AJ Sanchez, Kevy Chevy and Don Douglas, but only accomplished firing up Steeltown Pro Wrestling, and promoter Rob Stardom who was wise enough to see the short-sightedness of the two. It also served to prop up Ringmasters Entertainment a great deal and created a stronger level of competition for PCW.
-Andrew is now telling anyone who will listen that he will expand the schedule of PCW from sporadic (he strives for monthly, but hasn't done so well with that) to bi-weekly. GOOD LUCK Mr. Promoter with that. You already work a fraction of what is needed to make a monthly show successful on the promoting and marketing end, and now you will double the commitment of shows? To me, that's like being a remedial high school student, and for some delusional reason signing up for University Entrance courses. You're likelihood of failing skyrockets, and it's to mask some desperation that I still can't fathom. You aren't qualified to promote a lemon-aid stand, you are vastly unqualified to promote a bi-weekly wrestling show. But prove me wrong.
The most contentious and absolutely asshole thing, that Mr. Promoter Andrew Shallcross did this week, was to make back-handed remarks, where he attempted to compromise the credibility of Bryan Danielson. Suggesting Danielson is not what main-stream wrestling fans would want to see was ridiculous. I'm certain that Amazing Red, and Milano Collection AT (advertised but do to injury never made it to PCW), and Steve Corino have the main-stream wrestling appeal that vastly surpasses Danielson (please note my intended sarcasm there). And while fans (who are really the only ones who matter in this blog) salivate at the thought of Mentallo vs. Danielson, a match that on anticipation alone has already delivered what promoter Danny Duggan hopes to achieve, Shallcross proclaims on his personal website that Mentallo knows nothing of the match. He stopped short of saying Mentallo won't be there, or isn't booked, just that it was questionable on the level of respect for the promoter to book Mentallo for potentially an opportunity that could define his 2009, without letting Mentallo know who his opponent would be. Danny, if you want to book me, and surprise me with a face to face promo with Ric Flair, I will consider it completely disrespectful, especially if you don't negotiate my pay and let me know I'm doing it first. I won't appreciate your faith in me to be able to hold my own with the greatest promo in the business. (Please note my earlier sarcasm once again).
Now a very desperate and disillusioned Andrew has gone into complete panic mode. He's working his e-mail vigorously, and has dangled a potential announcement of an "import" to come to PCW and once again show why PCW isn't dieing. That's called reactionary, and it's the complete opposite of visionary. In an effort to get his loyal "team" of LOCAL wrestlers to shy away from the booking, he's suggested that evil Mike Davidson, with a legacy that includes producing National TV and Pay Per View wrestling broadcasts, and who is pretty respected amongst "Names" in the business is the actual promoter or booker of the event, but if that was known, the loyal PCW team of LOCALS would not take the booking. Andrew, if I was promoting the event, I probably would not have asked some of the LOCAL wrestlers in question. But for the sake of your ego, and my need for sarcasm, proof that I'm not the promoter or booker, or even am I booked for the event... This event will be a financial success on January 23, when is the last time Mike Davidson was involved in an event that was deemed a financial success? After all, despite having a legacy that includes PPV and TV, and having friendships with some of the biggest names in the wrestling business, I'm just a failure right? The only one of us failing at the moment, is the promoter who's running shows with four matches, and who's crew is shrinking by the month.
And another thing. Slap in the face? Andrew recently was attributed as saying PCW had more stars not on able to make their last show than any wrestling show has on their entire show. He said that three guys were unavailable. Well any show with Danny Duggan, AJ Sanchez, Kevyn Chevy, Don Douglas or Rob Stardom already have that many stars. So perhaps you can offer a retraction to your pompous statement. Just a thought.
I also know that this blog may prompt more LOCAL wrestling personality to take "their best shot" at me. Realize those "shots" are coming as you sit on the deck of the titanic, and it's going to suck when you are begging for life preservers because your blind loyalty to stubborn and unsuccessful promoter made it virtually impossible to get booked when he finally sunk. And rest assured, PCW is a ship with many many holes.
So to summarize:
I am not involved in any way shape or form in CWE's first event.
Under the "leadership" of Andrew Shallcross, Premier Championship Wrestling is failing at an alarming rapid rate, because the promoter is desperate and reactionary.
The new anthem for PCW should be "Stand By Your Man".
Thanks to Mike Arnott for his wonderful and appreciated contributions to this blog.
More specifically I wanted to offer a piece of advice to my good friend Andrew Shallcross, promoter of Premier Championship Wrestling, Winnipeg's finest LOCAL professional wrestling show. Andrew has used "Welcome To The Jungle" since the inception of the company in 2002 to start every single PCW show. It's an anthem, it suggests that the wrestlers who perform on the show are wild jungle like animals, and the environment is so crazy anything can happen (from the critique's I've heard lately, nothing unpredictable has happened, and it's severely compromised the theme of the jungle). So all holiday season long, I've been thinking, what would be a better anthem for my good friend's wrestling product, something that perfectly describes a theme for the show, and describes Premier Championship Wrestling, the thriving LOCAL wrestling company. So when PCW holds it's next show on Thursday night January 15th, at Dylan's on Pembina Highway, I encourage you all to check it out, and more than that, I encourage the PCW's brain thrust to change the anthem of the company to... "Stand By Your Man" the 1970's classic country mega-hit by the great Tammy Wynette.
Now before you wrestling fans, all of whom have a strong desire to post ridiculous things on my comment section under anonymous names, chastise me for bad taste in music, let me say I can think of nothing more fitting or entertaining than the sweet sound of Tammy Wynette wailing out a song that perfectly describes the blind loyalty a group of about 10 LOCAL wrestlers give Andrew K. Shallcross. Nothing underlined this point, better than about a week ago when Danny Duggan announced a plan to run Canadian Wrestling's Elite, a wrestling vision that is designed to only give the wrestling fan his best vision of how good pro wrestling in Manitoba could be showcased, and a couple of LOCAL wrestlers suggested that Danny seek out a discussion with Shallcross to ask permission and keep the peace before investing his personal money and promoting a wrestling event. This will likely get heat but Danny Duggan is probably the best booking mind in Manitoba right now, and has the most comprehensive knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of every LOCAL wrestler in Manitoba. So as a fan, I'd be very excited to see a very different wrestling product, on January 23, at Maples Community Club.
Getting back to the point. A group of seemingly blind LOCAL wrestlers, following a promoter who has lead them to the promised land of declining productivity. Andrew will pressure any LOCAL wrestler who performs for PCW by saying "be loyal to the team", when in reality he's demanding that you follow his blind and often stubborn lead at all costs, and mostly in the worst directions ever. Of course, Andrew will argue that he has the best "team" anywhere in Canada, and that his shows are still the most successful, I've even heard he has boldly made the claim that he's the best booker these parts have ever seen. Sure you are, and I'm the most religious person at the church each and every Sunday.
Lets review some of the choices he expects his "team" of LOCAL wrestlers to endorse, support and show unequaled loyalty to:
-Stiffing TNA superstars Samoa Joe and Chris Sabin on pay, because Joe wouldn't put Kenny Omega over, and ended the match in 8 minutes. So naturally, let's not pay Chris Sabin either, because, well because I'm not sure... Lets just stiff them. The result, it will be nearly impossible to ever bring a TNA wrestler to PCW, and quite likely short of the very credible endorsement of Kenny Omega, it will be virtually impossible to get any "name" superstar in the wrestling business to accept a booking from PCW. (Andrew, pucker up and kiss Kenny's feet, because you owe him big, and if you aren't happy with the match from Kenny's contact, don't stiff him no matter what).
-Entering into an absolutely useless agreement with CWF promoter Ernie Todd, one that I accurately predicted would not work, and would accomplish Jack Diddly shit. In the meantime, Todd and Shallcross in an effort to power play with their misguided projection of market dominance attempted to blackball Danny Duggan, AJ Sanchez, Kevy Chevy and Don Douglas, but only accomplished firing up Steeltown Pro Wrestling, and promoter Rob Stardom who was wise enough to see the short-sightedness of the two. It also served to prop up Ringmasters Entertainment a great deal and created a stronger level of competition for PCW.
-Andrew is now telling anyone who will listen that he will expand the schedule of PCW from sporadic (he strives for monthly, but hasn't done so well with that) to bi-weekly. GOOD LUCK Mr. Promoter with that. You already work a fraction of what is needed to make a monthly show successful on the promoting and marketing end, and now you will double the commitment of shows? To me, that's like being a remedial high school student, and for some delusional reason signing up for University Entrance courses. You're likelihood of failing skyrockets, and it's to mask some desperation that I still can't fathom. You aren't qualified to promote a lemon-aid stand, you are vastly unqualified to promote a bi-weekly wrestling show. But prove me wrong.
The most contentious and absolutely asshole thing, that Mr. Promoter Andrew Shallcross did this week, was to make back-handed remarks, where he attempted to compromise the credibility of Bryan Danielson. Suggesting Danielson is not what main-stream wrestling fans would want to see was ridiculous. I'm certain that Amazing Red, and Milano Collection AT (advertised but do to injury never made it to PCW), and Steve Corino have the main-stream wrestling appeal that vastly surpasses Danielson (please note my intended sarcasm there). And while fans (who are really the only ones who matter in this blog) salivate at the thought of Mentallo vs. Danielson, a match that on anticipation alone has already delivered what promoter Danny Duggan hopes to achieve, Shallcross proclaims on his personal website that Mentallo knows nothing of the match. He stopped short of saying Mentallo won't be there, or isn't booked, just that it was questionable on the level of respect for the promoter to book Mentallo for potentially an opportunity that could define his 2009, without letting Mentallo know who his opponent would be. Danny, if you want to book me, and surprise me with a face to face promo with Ric Flair, I will consider it completely disrespectful, especially if you don't negotiate my pay and let me know I'm doing it first. I won't appreciate your faith in me to be able to hold my own with the greatest promo in the business. (Please note my earlier sarcasm once again).
Now a very desperate and disillusioned Andrew has gone into complete panic mode. He's working his e-mail vigorously, and has dangled a potential announcement of an "import" to come to PCW and once again show why PCW isn't dieing. That's called reactionary, and it's the complete opposite of visionary. In an effort to get his loyal "team" of LOCAL wrestlers to shy away from the booking, he's suggested that evil Mike Davidson, with a legacy that includes producing National TV and Pay Per View wrestling broadcasts, and who is pretty respected amongst "Names" in the business is the actual promoter or booker of the event, but if that was known, the loyal PCW team of LOCALS would not take the booking. Andrew, if I was promoting the event, I probably would not have asked some of the LOCAL wrestlers in question. But for the sake of your ego, and my need for sarcasm, proof that I'm not the promoter or booker, or even am I booked for the event... This event will be a financial success on January 23, when is the last time Mike Davidson was involved in an event that was deemed a financial success? After all, despite having a legacy that includes PPV and TV, and having friendships with some of the biggest names in the wrestling business, I'm just a failure right? The only one of us failing at the moment, is the promoter who's running shows with four matches, and who's crew is shrinking by the month.
And another thing. Slap in the face? Andrew recently was attributed as saying PCW had more stars not on able to make their last show than any wrestling show has on their entire show. He said that three guys were unavailable. Well any show with Danny Duggan, AJ Sanchez, Kevyn Chevy, Don Douglas or Rob Stardom already have that many stars. So perhaps you can offer a retraction to your pompous statement. Just a thought.
I also know that this blog may prompt more LOCAL wrestling personality to take "their best shot" at me. Realize those "shots" are coming as you sit on the deck of the titanic, and it's going to suck when you are begging for life preservers because your blind loyalty to stubborn and unsuccessful promoter made it virtually impossible to get booked when he finally sunk. And rest assured, PCW is a ship with many many holes.
So to summarize:
I am not involved in any way shape or form in CWE's first event.
Under the "leadership" of Andrew Shallcross, Premier Championship Wrestling is failing at an alarming rapid rate, because the promoter is desperate and reactionary.
The new anthem for PCW should be "Stand By Your Man".
Thanks to Mike Arnott for his wonderful and appreciated contributions to this blog.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Depression: Sure I got it
Before I get too far started, I did my best to give a great online interview to Charlene about the pro wrestling business last night. For those of you who check out this blog on a regular basis, please feel free to divert your attention to www.charlenetellsall.blogspot.com. A warning ahead of time, one or two morons post about a dozen anonymous comments regularly on this blog, and they will probably get started on this interview anytime. But to the people who read this blog and appreciate it for what it is, I know you see all too well right through those two lifeless losers.
Now, there is a popular rumour floating around local wrestling circles that yours truly is suffering from a severe depression, and might be at such a low point that I may just off myself. In fact, one of the guys who posts many comments anonymously and regularly, suggested that a bunch of guys get together and spring for a shrink for me as a Christmas gift. I thought, well isn't that a thoughtful gesture. Please do.
Truthfully, I have been depressed, and it felt major at times, and minor at others. But for the most part that isn't anything out of the ordinary for me. People who have worked closely with me for years, and people who have gotten to know me both inside and outside of the wrestling business will attest to the fact that they've often wondered if I was Manic, bi-polar or some other form of a chemical imbalance. I'm either the happiest, funniest and most pumped up guy in the office, or I'm the saddest, most irritable, and hard to please guy, and it can switch in the span of 10 minutes.
So what did I do when I felt like I was sinking at times. I went to a therapist, and talked openly about life. Sometimes we talked about why I don't like winter. Or how I hate being abandoned, or how much pressure work has been. Or why the news anchor dumped in 2000. We talked a lot about my family life, and professional life, and I just let it out. The great thing about therapy, is it allows you to figure out your own shit, and if you honestly want to get better, you find the strength to do so.
I've also leaned on some of the best friends anybody has ever had in this world, and boy have they been there for me. Everyone will always say they have the best set of friends in the world, but mine listened to me at all hours of the night, just to hear me say I'd be alright. I can understand how whispers started that I was at risk of being yet another young casualty in the wrestling business. But those were just friends who were worried about me.
Fact is, I've never been better. I'm working on a brand new entertainment project that is something I couldn't be more happy about. One of the tough questions that Charlene asked me about was when I would return to my promoting wrestling roots and run a show or two. Who knows, I don't know if that will add to my happiness or make my stress level unbearable. So I will leave that door wide open.
So don't worry about me today. I'm doing fine. I will check back in a month and confirm I'm just fine then. And again in 6 months. I still will be doing just fine.
Now, there is a popular rumour floating around local wrestling circles that yours truly is suffering from a severe depression, and might be at such a low point that I may just off myself. In fact, one of the guys who posts many comments anonymously and regularly, suggested that a bunch of guys get together and spring for a shrink for me as a Christmas gift. I thought, well isn't that a thoughtful gesture. Please do.
Truthfully, I have been depressed, and it felt major at times, and minor at others. But for the most part that isn't anything out of the ordinary for me. People who have worked closely with me for years, and people who have gotten to know me both inside and outside of the wrestling business will attest to the fact that they've often wondered if I was Manic, bi-polar or some other form of a chemical imbalance. I'm either the happiest, funniest and most pumped up guy in the office, or I'm the saddest, most irritable, and hard to please guy, and it can switch in the span of 10 minutes.
So what did I do when I felt like I was sinking at times. I went to a therapist, and talked openly about life. Sometimes we talked about why I don't like winter. Or how I hate being abandoned, or how much pressure work has been. Or why the news anchor dumped in 2000. We talked a lot about my family life, and professional life, and I just let it out. The great thing about therapy, is it allows you to figure out your own shit, and if you honestly want to get better, you find the strength to do so.
I've also leaned on some of the best friends anybody has ever had in this world, and boy have they been there for me. Everyone will always say they have the best set of friends in the world, but mine listened to me at all hours of the night, just to hear me say I'd be alright. I can understand how whispers started that I was at risk of being yet another young casualty in the wrestling business. But those were just friends who were worried about me.
Fact is, I've never been better. I'm working on a brand new entertainment project that is something I couldn't be more happy about. One of the tough questions that Charlene asked me about was when I would return to my promoting wrestling roots and run a show or two. Who knows, I don't know if that will add to my happiness or make my stress level unbearable. So I will leave that door wide open.
So don't worry about me today. I'm doing fine. I will check back in a month and confirm I'm just fine then. And again in 6 months. I still will be doing just fine.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
A Perfect World in Bomberland
A few short weeks ago, following the dismissal of Doug Berry as Head Coach of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, I was openly skeptical of the front-runner Mike Kelly. Today, Mike Kelly has been named Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator of the Bombers, and it is plain and simply the wrong choice.
Mike Kelly just finished a season as Receivers Coach of the Edmonton Eskimos. Lets give kudos where they are deserved, whatever he did to make Kamau Peterson an all-star, and Most Outstanding Canadian is impressive to anyone who is forced to remember Peterson's season and a half in Winnipeg, and 2+ forgettable seasons in Hamilton. Edmonton's receivers were decent under the guidance of Kelly. It should be noted that Ricky Ray is arguably the best Quarterback in the CFL, and Rick Worman is a damn good Offensive Coordinator.
Kelly's claim to fame in the CFL was as Offensive Coordinator in Winnipeg from 1992-1996 under Cal Murphy. In his first two seasons, Kelly was the archetect of a damn good offense. Lets not fail to mention a hall of famer by the name of Matt Dunnigan was his QB. Dunnigan's backup in the first season was a young man named Danny MacManus as well. In his last two less than stellar seasons, with a combination of Sammy Garza, Reggie Slack and Kent Austin (a great quarterback in his own right) the Bombers offense was hidious. Nothing that would warrant automatic consideration as the new Blue Boss 12 years later (and rest assured, prior to Berry's firing, Bauer knew Kelly was the heir-apparent).
In a perfect world, the Bombers would have and should have promoted Defensive Coordinator Greg Marshall to Head Coach. Marshall has the respect of his defensive unit, and over his 3 seasons as the teams DC, has not had a season where the team didn't perform to expectation. In fact, all three seasons of the Doug Berry era where the team made the playoffs, including a Grey Cup loss, the defense was the selling feature for the team. Even with injuries to key personel, Barrin Simpson and Tom Canada this season, and the departure of one of the best defensive players in recent history Kyries Hybert, the team remained stingy when without the ball. Marshall has done this franchise proud, and without question should have received first consideration as new Head Coach. But he's not Bauer's cronie. Marshall should start a facebook club with Dave Ritchie, another coaching legend who did the franchise proud, but wasn't a buddy to Lyle.
Perfect worlds are very hypothetical, so lets play the what if game. Had Marshall been promoted to Head Coach, who would have made ideal candidates as Coordinators?
On the offensive side of the ball, Mike Kelly would make a great choice as OC. It would make Bauer happy for one, he's supposedly an Offensive genius, afterall. He said in his press conference today, his skill is to get the best out of a Quarterback. While Kevin Glenn definitely deserves a chance to play under a real Offensive Coordator. Kelly would have been easily available, after not even warranting consideration in Edmonton for their Head Coaching vacancy. OC in Winnipeg would still be a very fitting promotion for perhaps one of the most over-rated Head Coaches the Bombers have hired since Jim Daly and (shutter) Jeff Reinbolt.
Defensively, I'd call on Rich Stubler to bring the same tough defense from Toronto to Winnipeg. With Marshall overseeing the Defensive gameplan, and Stubler implementing some of his expertise, I do believe the team would be in good hands. Keep key personel, such as Doug Brown, Zeke Moreno, Gavin Walls, and the entire secondary, and this team would be an instant contender.
Unfortunately for Mike Kelly, he's truly a genuine nice gentleman, who badly wanted to be head coach of Winnipeg, and has the very tough task of delivering a Grey Cup to Winnipeg. Anything less, would make the fans wish for the days that Doug Berry was strong-arming the sidelines, and bringing our beloved blue, within one broken arm of a grey cup.
Good luck to Kelly. He got the job because he was a good guy, the type of guy the CEO would be proud to call a buddy, not because he had a great football resume, or was the right choice.
Mike Kelly just finished a season as Receivers Coach of the Edmonton Eskimos. Lets give kudos where they are deserved, whatever he did to make Kamau Peterson an all-star, and Most Outstanding Canadian is impressive to anyone who is forced to remember Peterson's season and a half in Winnipeg, and 2+ forgettable seasons in Hamilton. Edmonton's receivers were decent under the guidance of Kelly. It should be noted that Ricky Ray is arguably the best Quarterback in the CFL, and Rick Worman is a damn good Offensive Coordinator.
Kelly's claim to fame in the CFL was as Offensive Coordinator in Winnipeg from 1992-1996 under Cal Murphy. In his first two seasons, Kelly was the archetect of a damn good offense. Lets not fail to mention a hall of famer by the name of Matt Dunnigan was his QB. Dunnigan's backup in the first season was a young man named Danny MacManus as well. In his last two less than stellar seasons, with a combination of Sammy Garza, Reggie Slack and Kent Austin (a great quarterback in his own right) the Bombers offense was hidious. Nothing that would warrant automatic consideration as the new Blue Boss 12 years later (and rest assured, prior to Berry's firing, Bauer knew Kelly was the heir-apparent).
In a perfect world, the Bombers would have and should have promoted Defensive Coordinator Greg Marshall to Head Coach. Marshall has the respect of his defensive unit, and over his 3 seasons as the teams DC, has not had a season where the team didn't perform to expectation. In fact, all three seasons of the Doug Berry era where the team made the playoffs, including a Grey Cup loss, the defense was the selling feature for the team. Even with injuries to key personel, Barrin Simpson and Tom Canada this season, and the departure of one of the best defensive players in recent history Kyries Hybert, the team remained stingy when without the ball. Marshall has done this franchise proud, and without question should have received first consideration as new Head Coach. But he's not Bauer's cronie. Marshall should start a facebook club with Dave Ritchie, another coaching legend who did the franchise proud, but wasn't a buddy to Lyle.
Perfect worlds are very hypothetical, so lets play the what if game. Had Marshall been promoted to Head Coach, who would have made ideal candidates as Coordinators?
On the offensive side of the ball, Mike Kelly would make a great choice as OC. It would make Bauer happy for one, he's supposedly an Offensive genius, afterall. He said in his press conference today, his skill is to get the best out of a Quarterback. While Kevin Glenn definitely deserves a chance to play under a real Offensive Coordator. Kelly would have been easily available, after not even warranting consideration in Edmonton for their Head Coaching vacancy. OC in Winnipeg would still be a very fitting promotion for perhaps one of the most over-rated Head Coaches the Bombers have hired since Jim Daly and (shutter) Jeff Reinbolt.
Defensively, I'd call on Rich Stubler to bring the same tough defense from Toronto to Winnipeg. With Marshall overseeing the Defensive gameplan, and Stubler implementing some of his expertise, I do believe the team would be in good hands. Keep key personel, such as Doug Brown, Zeke Moreno, Gavin Walls, and the entire secondary, and this team would be an instant contender.
Unfortunately for Mike Kelly, he's truly a genuine nice gentleman, who badly wanted to be head coach of Winnipeg, and has the very tough task of delivering a Grey Cup to Winnipeg. Anything less, would make the fans wish for the days that Doug Berry was strong-arming the sidelines, and bringing our beloved blue, within one broken arm of a grey cup.
Good luck to Kelly. He got the job because he was a good guy, the type of guy the CEO would be proud to call a buddy, not because he had a great football resume, or was the right choice.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Walked Through Hell
I knew I would be writing this blog today. I wrote a similar blog at the end of October talking about how I really hoped the changed of the calender month from October into November would bring welcomed change. I had been on a two month slide where my personal life was in chaos, my professional life was going through a critical change, my health was in question, and I was just overall unhappy. Some said I was depressed. My next blog will talk about my definition of depression.
Personally I saw challenges that defined who I was. When you are down, the measure of a man isn't who gets knocked down, mopes and cries about it, and does nothing to identify it, fix it, and get stronger from it, but the measure of a man is how you get back up, come back stronger, and more in touch with how to avoid falling back down. I really don't like getting back up, even if it's a source of pride, because it reminds me how easy it is to fall. Thanks to some really great people I keep in my life, the personal stuff, and trust me it was major, got better quickly, and 12 short weeks later I can honestly say everything is right back on track. I'm feeling great.
From a health standpoint, I had to visit a nuerologist recently and get a CT scan for a chronic migrane headache condition. Turns out that I have some continuing nagging effects from a few concussions I've had over the course of time. It's nothing too major, sometimes I have troubles focusing, or I lose what I tried to say mid-sentence, or I get a dibilitating head-ache. It's ok, I feel good. I also had a weird swelling in my stomach, that I was worried was a hurnia. After seeing the doctor, it's been x-rayed, and doesn't require any treatment at this time. A relief.
Professionally things are really starting to go strong. Danny Duggan and I are partners in a marketing company, and I've never been happier. Business is steadily going up for us, and we've found a great way to get the most out of our objectives.
There is so many people who surprised me how well they stood beside me, and never let me slip further. There were some people who actually poked fun at me for battling depression. I think that's a low blow, but I can smile and laugh about it now. Those are the same people who are perputually whiney about everything in life. Throughout it all, I believed things were going to improve, and they did. That's the power of believing. I just believed in myself with complete faith.
Personally I saw challenges that defined who I was. When you are down, the measure of a man isn't who gets knocked down, mopes and cries about it, and does nothing to identify it, fix it, and get stronger from it, but the measure of a man is how you get back up, come back stronger, and more in touch with how to avoid falling back down. I really don't like getting back up, even if it's a source of pride, because it reminds me how easy it is to fall. Thanks to some really great people I keep in my life, the personal stuff, and trust me it was major, got better quickly, and 12 short weeks later I can honestly say everything is right back on track. I'm feeling great.
From a health standpoint, I had to visit a nuerologist recently and get a CT scan for a chronic migrane headache condition. Turns out that I have some continuing nagging effects from a few concussions I've had over the course of time. It's nothing too major, sometimes I have troubles focusing, or I lose what I tried to say mid-sentence, or I get a dibilitating head-ache. It's ok, I feel good. I also had a weird swelling in my stomach, that I was worried was a hurnia. After seeing the doctor, it's been x-rayed, and doesn't require any treatment at this time. A relief.
Professionally things are really starting to go strong. Danny Duggan and I are partners in a marketing company, and I've never been happier. Business is steadily going up for us, and we've found a great way to get the most out of our objectives.
There is so many people who surprised me how well they stood beside me, and never let me slip further. There were some people who actually poked fun at me for battling depression. I think that's a low blow, but I can smile and laugh about it now. Those are the same people who are perputually whiney about everything in life. Throughout it all, I believed things were going to improve, and they did. That's the power of believing. I just believed in myself with complete faith.
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