Baptized In Lariats & Pine: Wrestling in the PNW.
Between distant roads, familiar territory and warm ring lights, I am humbled by the reminder that nothing is forever and everything is always evolving. With wrestling, that evolution becomes more apparent every time I step into a different indie promotion. And when you start at the roots, you truly get to see how beautiful the sport has become. Whether it's the uncertainty of something unfamiliar or the intimacy of being at your home promotion, the thing about pro wrestling is that no two companies are the same. They each have their own vibe. Their own fanbase and their own definitions of what a great wrestling show is. Each unique aspect makes the sport not only enchanting but also turns the show into an experience. So I had to ask myself, how could I be a fan of indie wrestling and not talk a little about some of the shows I’ve attended recently in my home territory?
There is so much personality, overlooked aura, and wrestling history that has grown in the Pacific Northwest. It is definitely not hard to find a local show near you when you live in the area. So where did it all begin? The first major professional wrestling promotion in the PNW was Pacific Northwest Wrestling. With footprints dating back to the 1920s, it began in Oregon before expanding into the state of Washington, combining the two states into one territory. And as we stand here now over a century later, there are over a dozen wrestling promotions entertaining crowds every weekend.
In March, I visited Arizona to see what PCW had to offer. But in April and May, I stayed close to home. Attending DOA in Oregon, and my home promotion of SOS Pro Wrestling in Washington state. My time at DOA back in April brought a combination of my favorite PNW wrestlers together in a brilliant show. DOA had an atmosphere of grit, determination and something to prove. Being a part of a sea of people who shared their passion for those in the ring with loud chants and sometimes deserved disdain made the night unforgettable. By the middle of the show, I already knew that I would definitely be coming back. And when it comes to my home promotion of SOS, well, it holds a special place in my heart as it is the first indie promotion I have ever been to. SOS has “no rules”; it is aimed towards the wrestling fan and the first timers. There is an art, but there is also a sort of chaos that reminds you that wrestling is supposed to be fun. From monkeys and camp counselors to lifeguards and ghost pirates, you never know what to expect on the island.
Among the many other promotions across the PNW, the talent I get to see live cannot be denied. I think one of my favorite things about wrestling in this territory is the amount of creativity in the craft. From the characters, the distinction of each show, to the vibes of the crowd. The spirit of what makes the PNW great truly dances across the canvas. Some names I believe you may want to remember are Ducky Dang, The Heartbreakers Club, Big Anne, Steven Bradley, Skylar Hope, Eli Ford, and Derrick Shaw. There is just a light about these individuals that makes me say that they are gonna hit gold one way or another in this industry. With passion, charisma, style, or pure talent, these stars burn bright in the cloudy skies of the PNW. Some give hope to the next generation, while others are a part of the next generation, all while having the space to really cement their names.
Visiting all these companies and witnessing all the talent is such a luxury. I can not take for granted the moments when I get to step outside life and enjoy something that I love so much. Make sure to keep an eye on the Pacific Northwest's indie scene, check out your local shows, and support the future of the sport. As fans and consumers, we play a very important part in the industry. With each direction the sport changes into, I think witnessing the beginnings of someone’s story becomes something magical. Seeing that in the determination of those in my area keeps my passion for wrestling alive. And I feel a kind of comfort knowing that the future of professional wrestling is in good hands.
If you are in the area, check out this list of some of the indie promotions near you!
DOA -Oregon
SOS Pro Wrestling- Washington
Relentless Wrestling - Washington
Peak Sports Entertainment - Washington
POW Pro Wrestling - Oregon
PNWBWC- Oregon
Oblivion- Washington
5CC- Washington