There is a movement going on right now to bring professional wrestling back to its roots.
Before there were weekly TV shows and mega stars breaking through to Hollywood, there were men and women battling it out in the squared circles in regions across the world – smaller, local shows for the home crowds to get hooked on.
The hope is that Norfolk County Championship Wrestling can capture that former magic.
That was President Adam Martin, who is spearheading this movement with his close-knit group of cohorts.
The idea is to bring the passion of those old “territory” days to Norfolk, something that nearby areas are already doing.
Right now, there are local shows running in places all over Ontario, attracting big crowds as this independent wrestling movement picks up steam.
While NCCW is not going to be the same as what you would find clicking into a wrestling show on TV on Monday night, there is still a high bar for the caliber of wrestlers that will be presented.
Their first show is all set for April of next year with a very special location selected – Talbot Gardens in Simcoe.
The hope is for that community buy-in.
That Norfolk County Championship Wrestling will be that event that locals really want to attend and support.
That is important to Martin, to have that local connection.
They are launching an Ontario’s Garden Cup tournament, collecting food donations at the door, and working with local businesses and community members to make this a truly Norfolk experience.
Martin says he knows times are tough, and he hopes having an affordable family-oriented activity run by locals and supporting locals will be a hit.
It is important for Martin that the community knows that this is not a one-time thing.
The hope is for NCCW to sink its claws into the area and expand to all parts of the county.
Tickets are on sale now for the show, with a match card being announced in the near future.
More information can be found here.
Written by Matt LeBlanc