IYFW OFFICIAL UNOFFICIAL TOP TEN RANKINGS for October 2011

1.) Pierre "The Beast" Vachon [2]
Fire. Fists. Fury. That's what Pierre Vachon is all about. He won the IYFW Championship after a ref bump, after tapping out himself, and after hurling a FIREBALL in the face of Big Vigo. In one night, IYFW solidified him as THE most dangerous man in the promotion. They're building up his mandible claw and the fact that he is a loose cannon. I like it.

2.) Vigo [1]
The case can (and will be made) that he was robbed of his title last week by the Number 1 ranked wrestler. The dude fought and clawed to be champion and it all came down to a ball of flame to the mug, and a mouth full of fingers. They should play up a bit of a "recovery" time, leaving him off the next show or two, and continue to build Vachon as a monster so that his return would have added heat behind it...

3.) Drake Evans [4]
Drake's big win over SuperBeast may be the first step towards rebuilding Drake Evans as a true IYFW championship contender. As I've covered at length, the man hasn't caught a break all year and he is DUE. It will be interesting to see the Burton/Evans dynamic going forward, that's for sure. If they DO remove Vigo from the picture for a bit to sell it, Evans would be a natural contender to the strap in the coming series of shows.

4.) Fronz Roddy [8]
He is the IYFW New Breed Champion. A man who has held the IYFW Champinship longer than anyone else, ever. The very first and ONLY man to hold EVERY title in the promotion. Where can he go from here? Wherever he wants to.

5.) Roman Dominguez [4]
Following one of the most unexpected matches in his career, I wonder where things could go for Dominguez from here? Does he stay on the periphery of the New Breed scene, in a second-tier feud maybe? Or does he instead turn his attention to the unstable IYFW Championship Title scene, becoming the dangerous assassin of that circle of performers? We've seen him MORE than hang against the Drake's and the Ocean's and the Roddy's... Why not put him in THAT grouping, and stick with him?

6.) Adam Badger [6]
This kid continues to impress. Holding one half of the tag straps in IYFW as well as a singles title in Slam All-Star Wrestling, Adam Badger is a young man who's potential seems unlimited. He once again scored the win in the recent tag title defense over Shiloh Robinson and Ricky Rockett a week ago and is the thunder to "Megastar" Michael Monroe's flash. He has grabbed a hold of this "CENSORED" gimmick since April and has really run with it, adding layers and layers to it with each outing. I'd love to see them have he and Monroe cut a promo and Badger takes it too far, once more, and have the Uprising come out to shut him up. I would love to see Badger make a run in a singles role but would equally hate to lose his talent in the tag ranks.

7.) Ian Daniels [9]
Daniels did not WIN his 4-way match at CAULDRON OF HATE but was clearly the star of the match. Taking into account his memorable run(s) in the IN YOUR FACE RUMBLE and we have a man who's stock is clearly on the rise. He got THE best reaction I have ever seen him receive from those in attendance at the BACC on October 1st and has a devoted following at all the shows.

8.) Liam McFerrin [10]
Coming off of a huge singles win over Fronz Roddy in August, McFerrin followed it up with a tag victory over the seasoned pairing of WAR and Scott Scarsdale. not to take anything away from tag partner, Michael McKinger, but Liam is much more exciting to watch and seems to be on the upswing.

9.) The Northern Studd [--]
*sigh* I feel dirty just by WRITING this. But there's no way I can overlook his HUGE win over former IYFW Champion, Guillaume de Sade, at CAULDRON OF HATE. I want to. I should. But I can't. He cleanly beat the guy who never lost his IYFW Championship... He was STRIPPED of it. And the guy that wasn't cool enough to hang with Fronz Roddy BEAT him in his match back. I'll say it again... The Studd is one solid wrestler... But he is NO Fronz Roddy. Enjoy your spot on the list, Dudd. It will be fleeting.

10.) Rocco Perelli [--]
Rocco deserves a spot on here for both his win in October's 4-way over Daniels, Foxx Vinyer, and Rob Coleman... And for being THE dick of the show. He incited the crowd like a champ at last Saturday's show and walked out after - literally - stealing a win. That's a guy that should be steady rocking the undercard at their shows on the regular.


ON THE BUBBLE:
Shiloh Robinson
Guillaume de Sade
Ricky Rockett
Bobby Ocean

IYFW Season 5: Cauldron of Hate RECAP/REVIEW

Once again emanating from the Ballston Area Community Center, In Your Face Wrestling Presented CAULDRON OF HATE, their big anniversary show. And an eventful, fun show it was! I arrived as the doors opened, picked up my pre-ordered ticket and snagged my seat in the Front Row of (what i have affectionately christened as) the Heel Section. I have to admit... The crowd at this event didn't seem as plentiful or as rowdy as past events (certainly not as vocal as at August's SUMMERTIME BRUISE EVENT) and was lacking a handful of familiar faces that I'd come to see and expect in the crowd at these shows. That being said, there were a handful of Heel Section faithful that "kept the dream alive" and certainly added to the generally fun ambiance of the show.

Spent a little bit of time before bell time schmoozing with some of the IYFW event staff, which is always fun. As usual, the crew and performers are so approachable and fun to interact with and that absolutely adds to the overall IYFW experience and this show was no different.

Notable by his absence, for the second event in a row, was respected ring announcer, Walter Ball. Not sure what that's about... but at least we weren't subjected to another performance by Justin Foxx, who laid an announcers egg at Summertime Bruise (we love you, Justin... Just DIE, already.) In Walters place was a young lady who did a solid job, I just wish I caught her name.

Also notable by their presence before the show began were two IYFW staff dudes wearing wolf masks, hanging around the crowd. There are usually more than a few staff guys on hand... And the IYFW October shows usually have a Halloween type theme, so their being there didn't really raise any red flags. However their presence would be notable a bit later in the show, which is why I bring it up now...

Our first contest was a tag match featuring the Celtic Crew - Liam McFerrin and Michael McKinger - taking on the Money Machine (my moniker) of "Millennium Millionaire" Scott Scarsdale and his bodyguard, WAR. This match was a fair enough opener, yet the crowd didn't give it much credence. A very quiet bunch of fans; so quiet in fact that, in the early goings, I was one of the only ones who seemed "into" it. I even called out: "Hey... people. You're at a wrestling show, let's go!" I tried to do what *I* could, as a goon in the crowd, by getting that rhythmic clapping going and, as the show wore on, a quality chant here and there. This match seemed to showcase the power of Liam McFerrin and the underhanded tactics of Scott Scarsdale. Liam would eventually catch Scarsdale in some sort of Hurricane Fireman's Carry that would ALSO take out WAR before McFerrin blasted Scarsdale with a vicious running lariat and a pin.

The critic in me wonders why Scarsdale didn't tag out to his partner and confidant, WAR, who honestly didn't get much match time. WAR has proven himself to be a submission expert who, in the past, has been more than effective when utilized by Scarsdale (and had a good match teaming with Vile at Summertime Bruise). All in all, a fun match that tried hard to get this sluggish crowd into things.

The next bout had me pumped. Guillaume de Sade stepped through the curtain to a solid rain of boo's (except from me, naturally. I love this guys stuff). Ever since being stripped of the IYFW Championship by former Management Representative, Harold Touch'ole, back at April's DEFY THE ODDS, I have been eagerly awaiting this man's return. When it was announced on the IYFW INTERFACE that the former Champion would be appearing at this show, I had high hopes. Maybe they'd put him back in the title race... Maybe he'd feud with Burton... Maybe he'd come back as a baby face seeking retribution against Touch'ole/Good Lord Willing or even Scarsdale?

No.

He comes back to face The Northern Studd.

Don't get me wrong. The Studd is a good performer and busts his ass out there... But, as I was sure to remind him at every given opportunity, he is NO FRONZ RODDY.

Really, though... This may have been one of the most athletic matches of the night with de Sade showing just what made him Championship material and the Studd leaving everything out there on the mat. I am just such a fan of de Sade's work (and Fronz Roddy's) that I can't bring myself to compliment The Northern Studd other than to say that... Somehow he won. The Northern Studd defeated the man who never really LOST the IYFW Championship. What gives?!?

In the photo above, The Studd posed... Thinking I'd tell him how great he was. I told him: "Fronz's muscles are bigger." The fans in the Heel Section applauded. His response: "They may be bigger, but I'm better."

WEAK.

Next up was a Four Way Free for All! Rocco Perrelli was the first out; sporting tacky pinstripe style attire. The Heel Section, at times, wasn't sure which guy in the ring was the referee. Next out Foxx Vinyer, who seemed pumped to be there. Close behind him was the next competitor, his (former, it seems?) Tag Team partner, The REAL Rob Coleman - who has some of the stiffest kicks I have seen this side of Roman Dominguez. Finally, the final competitor was The King of Old School, Ian Daniels; who was rocking some Reckless Youth attire in honor of the Halloween Theme. He was clearly the match favorite.

This was a fun match that had a lot going on and all of it great. Perrelli was a grade A dick to the fans. Coleman and Vinyer mesh so well together in the ring that they MIGHT be better off as opponents than team mates, dare I say? And Daniels was just classic, to put it simply. When he wasn't being near flawless in the ring, he was getting under the skin of Perrelli; alternately starting chants of "SNOOKI SUCKS!" and "RETARD PENGUIN!". The action in between all of that was so much fun, starting with a great out of the ring, off the top rope plancha by Daniels on all FOUR men, some quality back and forth between the members of Capital Punishment, and this...

A Two Star Frog Splash from the Anarchist himself! So great. Daniels would soon after eat a brutal Finlay-Style roll via Coleman before having Coleman's victory stolen by Rocco Perrelli.

Goon.

I'd love to see a Perrelli/Daniels program. That, much like THIS match and despite the presence of Rocco Perrelli (who attempted, in vain, to slap the hat off of my head when I was mercilessly mocking is voice), would be AWESOME.

Post match, the crowd serenaded Ian Daniels with applause for his valiant efforts... And the two IYFW staff dudes wearing wolf masks got in the ring to help him to his feet. And I smelled a rat. They started beating Daniels down before removing their masks to reveal their identities as The Savage Wolves, CJ Scott and Damon Ravage. They laid a horrific beating on Daniels before IYFW Minister of Wrestling Operations, Maxx Burton, ran down to ringside to chase Scott and Ravage out of the building.

Apparently, as I have learned by viewing the Summertime Bruise DVD (available on the merchandise section of IYFWrestling.com), CJ Scott is no longer under contract with IYF wrestling, nor is Damon Ravage. Clearly... They aren't pleased by this. I received the following from The Savage Wolves shortly after the CAULDRON OF HATE event:

For Immediate Release
Dear In Your Face Faithful,

Tonight at "Season 5: Cauldron of Hate" you were all visited by the Ghosts of Halloweens Past. Ian Daniels especially felt their presence. These ghosts I refer to are of course "The Wolf" C.J. Scott and "The Savage" Damon Ravage. For far too long Damon and I have been treated as outsiders and second class talent in IYFW. Well, tonight we fired the first shot in our war on In Your face Wrestling and it's Minister of Wrestling Operations, Maxx Burton. You have until November 12th at IYFW Presents: The Brass Ring to reinstate us to the roster or you can expect another attack like tonight. You'll be hearing from us in the very near future. Do the right thing; fix this now before someone gets hurt.

-The Savage Wolves


Oh, snap. Well. This should be fun. Burton was fuming at their appearance, so... Yeah. Good stuff.

That picture says it all. Well... Not really. Up next was Drake Evans taking on SuperBeast. When IYFW released that Maxx Burton promo a few weeks back, where the Minister snidely promised to have something in mind for the embattled heart of IYFW (that'd be Evans, btw), I wanted to predict he'd throw him in the ring with the 400+ lb monster... In retrospect, I should have.

This was a fun match, with SuperBeast splitting time between barking at the fans and crushing Evans beneath his prodigious weight. At one point, the man-mountain threatened the referee, causing him to cower, which allowed Drake Evans to finally take SuperBeast off is feet, dropkicking him, toppling him over the cowering, cowardly referee. This allowed Drake to take to the skies...

That right there was a quality Flying Elbow Drop from the top rope that kept SuperBeast on the mat long enough to record the win. This is a big win for Evans, who had been on quite the downswing as of late; losing an IYFW Championship opportunity against de Sade in April, being handcuffed and basically removed from the Coronation Cup Tournament in June by WAR, and then gagging into sweet oblivion on Pierre Vachon's sausage fingers in August. Things have looked bleak for Evans and this win has to improve his standing and his placement in the hierarchy of IYFW. He certainly wants that IYFW Championship belt back and I don't think even his foe, (and company head) Maxx Burton, can ignore his efforts on this night.

Of course, I have been wrong before.

Next up was intermission. And a fairly eventful intermission for yours truly at that! First off, I was able to shake hands with the Minister, himself, Maxx Burton. If he hadn't already appeared to be in a hurry, and if I had been able to muster up the courage to do so, I might have shared with him my dream to call an event in the booth with Joey LaRoque -- I like to think that I have the gift of gab and the ability to play the snarky heel-loving color commentator role off of Joey's straight-man, knowledgable play by play. Big fan of Joey's work both on the INTERFACE and the promotions excellent DVD's.

Maybe next time.

Also during intermission, I had my picture snapped with the champ...

Before getting back to the action I also stole a moment with IYFW's resident Submission Slayer, WAR, who is also a frequent reader of these pages - which is cool to know. He is as imposing as you might expect and surprisingly more approachable than you might assume!

But that's not all! There was also the obligatory 50/50 raffle that I can't help but throw some dollars into. Once again, I did not come away empty handed and once again I walked away with two tickets to their next event!

...too bad I already pre-ordered my tickets...

But someone suggested that maybe I give them away as a prize to a reader of Wrestlefudge? Not a bad idea! I've got a little less than 6 weeks to come up with something and I'm sure I will. Was REALLY hoping to win the signed ring bell, the promotions FIRST ring bell. That might have been kind of cool to have. No clue what I'd have done with it had I won it... But still.

Back to the action we go!

Holy shit. The IYFW New Breed Title was on the line - and so much more. If Dominguez retained he would be the winningest champion in IYFW history... If Fronz Roddy won, he would be the first and only man to have held every title in the promotion, ever.

Wow.

I predicted this would be an awesome match, due to the athleticism of the men involved, everything that was on the line, and do to the heel alignment of both competitors. I was right on all counts (just not about who would win... But I'll get to that.)

This was, without a doubt, the funniest and most creative wrestling match I have ever seen. Unique just isn't the word. It's not often, as a wrestling fan, that you can HONESTLY say you witnessed something new and original. Yet those in attendance at the BACC on this night KNOW they did. I'm not going to even try to attempt to describe what went down here other than to say; it was a see-saw, psychological battle that pushed both men (and the referee) to their very limits. If you don't grab the DVD of this event when it becomes available JUST to see this match... Then you're a fool.

Fronz Roddy won.

I was lucky enough to have BOTH wrestlers jaw with me back and forth as the match began. So hysterical. They weren't having the "LET'S GO, BOTH OF YOU!" chant that I started... Yet by the end of this match, the fans WERE behind them both (and feeling much sympathy for the referee, hehe). So, so great. Kudos, gents.

Should be interesting to see where things go from here for these two men. Roman Dominguez has teased on his Facebook page that there are bigger and better things on the horizon for him and Fronz Roddy promises to take the New Breed Championship to new heights. Well... He's off to quite a start. Such a memorable bout.

The next contest featured the IYFW Tag Team Champions, the young team of "The Spectacle" Adam Badger and "Megastar" Michael Monroe defending against The Uprising; Shiloh Robinson and "Loverboy" Ricky...

ROCKETT?!?!

I guess Ricky Williams couldn't make it, but his loss is The Rockett's (and the fans) gain! Accompanying them to ringside was Jamar "Magic" Justice, original Uprising member and first graduate of the IYF Academy! This was a fun match that was really all about Badger over powering the much smaller Ricky Rockett; at ne point manhandling him with a Pumphandle Backbreaker that I HAVE to assume Rockett is still feeling. Monroe looked as fluid as ever and Shiloh Robinson shined once they hit that hot tag! However, Monroe did what he does - took Rockett down and out on the outside of the ring, allowing Badger to catch Robinson slipping and gain the pin, allowing The Enemy to retain their coveted tag straps. Good, fun match! Badger clearly has a blast with his censored gimmick and - at one point - got in the face of the father and son that, way back at April's "DEFY THE ODDS", he had originally dropped the F bomb heard round the northeast. Wonder if he knew that...

Maxx Burton would come out and thank the fans for 4 years of support in a heartfelt, quality promo... that had me wondering if maybe there was some nonsense afoot on his part (I just can't bring myself to fully trust The Axx's intentions, I'm sorry!)

The combatants would come to the ring; Vachon all bluster and venom, Vigo full of intensity and focus. The IYFW Championship is on the line - neither man has been pinned or submitted in an IYFW ring, as Maxx reminded us - and after giving them a strong, big-time-feel introduction, Maxx made it clear that if ANYONE came through the curtain to interfere in this match he would fire them on the spot.

(this had me wondering if we'd see The Savage Wolves run-in, since they're not contracted anyway... or wondering if Maxx HIMSELF might insert himself into things... Hmm. Intrigue!)

This bout was pretty much what one might expect. A lot of brawling on both parts, a lot of barking at the crowd on Pierre's part, and a lot of hulking-up on the part of Vigo. The fight spilled out of the ring momentarily and the violent bastard in me was really hoping we'd see MORE of that outside the ring melee style combat. Once they got back in the ring, Vigo mounted a strong come back before getting slowed down again by Pierre Vachon's relentless assault.

Like I said... A lot of what you'd expect.

Before too long the ref would go down (uh-oh!) and Vigo would regain the upper hand, clamping on a brutal submission... And, you guessed it...

Vigo would go to revive the referee... And Vachon would go to the corner to pull out something nefarious... Oh snap. He THREW a fireball in the Champions face!

Vigo went down to the mat, clutching his grill like you'd expect... And was soon feasting on Pierre Vachons Mandible Claw!

Sans sock.

Much like Drake Evans before him back in August, Big Vigo couldn't withstand the pressure on those tender mouth nerves and passed out! Ironically, the referee revived himself, dropped the champs arm 3 times... And awarded the match, and the title, to the NEW IYFW CHAMPION...

In the aftermath, Vachon taunted Vigo as IYFW Medics and Officials hit the ring to check on him. The look of concern on the face of Referee Adam Brunton told the story. Vigo was in a bad way.

Notable by his absence in the IYFW Championship aftermath?

Minister of Wrestling Operations, Maxx Burton. Follow my logic... Burton and Vigo have a (bad) history. One might say that Burton is DIRECTLY responsible for Vachon GETTING this title shot. Burton barred ANYONE from interferring for any reason. A wrestler is seriously hurt, burnt in the face and choked unconscious, and he isn't interested? Doesn't want to check on the former champ? At ALL?

I might respect you... But I STILL DON'T TRUST YOU, MAXX BURTON!

Heh.

All in all, another very fun event. A little something for everyone. Great tag action, some excellent performances, a fun comedy match, and a brutally chaotic main event that saw the top title change hands. What more could you ask for?

A return to the BACC on November 12th, you say?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

COMING SOON TO THE 'FUDGE:
- the Official Unofficial IYFW Top Ten Rankings for October '11
- IYFW Superstar Spotlight: ADAM BADGER
- the Wrestlefudge Interview: IAN DANIELS
...and more!

As always, thanks for reading! Be sure to add your email address in my mailing list at the top of the page so you'll ALWAYS know when I update the blog!

COMING SOON: Interview with an Anarchist

I'm happy to announce that the second wrestlefudge interview has been booked! Close on the heels of my critically ignored sit down with IYFW ultrastar, Fronz Roddy, another In Your Face athlete has stepped up to be the next victim!

One of In Your Face Wrestling's most colorful and energetic performers, Ian Daniels, will subject himself to the hard hitting questions of yours truly. Topics I hope to cover include: his beginnings in the business, favorite and least favorite opponents/partners, his straight edge persona, the "Ballston Spa Screw Job" with Good Lord Willing and a shit ton more.

Stay tuned!

Semi-Kinda-Exclusive: IYFW Announces November Show!

In an email dispatched 24 hours ago to those fans who are on their mailing list, IYFW officials made a few fun announcements!

Given that the email, Facebook and Twitter posts all indicated that this was a "secret" not yet ready to be released to the masses I'm not going to reveal everything in the email, such as the specifics on the cool items to be raffled off this Saturday at their "Cauldron of Hate" event in Ballston Spa. Yet one thing that this blogger absolutely can NOT ignore and/or NOT report on is the announcement of the promotions return to the Ballston Area Community Center in November!

IYFW will return to the BACC on Saturday, November 12th, just 6 short weeks after this Saturdays event. How cool is that? The COOLEST thing the email noted was a web address for early pre-ordering of tickets to this event. Again, out of respect for the company and it's officials, I won't be revealing that web address here - the event, it's name (which I dig!) and ticket sales will be announced to the general public this Saturday and, I imagine, be available for sale for ALL on IYFWrestling.com.

Such great fan service, once more, by IYFW that I HAVE to applaud. Given my propensity for pre-ordering tickets, I know I will be all over this. Extra bonus for me? The show is scheduled for my vacation week (and a day following the release of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim... Nerdgasm). Now I have even MORE to look forward to that week!

Well done, IYFW! If you're not signed up for their mailing list... Then why are you even reading this? Get over there and sign up!

IYFW Cauldron of Hate PREVIEW/PREDICTIONS

It's close to midnight. There's something evil lurking in the dark. No, this isn't thriller... It's In Your Face Wrestling's CAULDRON of HATE, the kickoff of Season Five of Upstate New York's premiere independent wrestling promotion!

With only 3 matches announced for the event, there is much open to interpretation and speculation as far as what one might expect at the show. One thing that is guaranteed: history will be made. Whether it's the huge IYFW Championship bout pitting two of the company's largest performers against each other or the IYFW New Breed Title match featuring Dominguez defending against Roddy... History WILL be made!

Before we get to the announced matches, let's talk about what else we know - or sort of know - shall we?

We shall.

Guillaume de Sade to RETURN!
This man once had a brutal stranglehold on the IYFW Championship, using every underhanded tactic in the proverbial book to maintain that hold. It wasn't until the debut of former Management Representative, Harold Touch'ole, that he was stripped of the coveted belt. Given the undeniable fact that Touch'ole had been acting at the behest - and from the pocket - of "Millennium Millionaire" Scott Scarsdale one MIGHT wonder if we are treated to a de Sade who is looking for retribution, a man hungry for revenge, finally finding himself on the side of Right. Eh, sadly, probably not. In his recent (awesome, smart) vignette, Minister of Wrestling Operations, Maxx Burton, made it clear he would "take care" of de Sade. Something tells me we will see some sparks between those two this Saturday.

Will Ricky Rockett Be There?
This caped, masked grappler captured the imagination of IYFW fans when he was one of the first entrants in August's IN YOUR FACE RUMBLE. While not much is known about this enigma, one thing is for sure: we need to see more of him in an IYFW ring. He has been competing regularly in IYFW's spiritual sister promotion, Slam All-Star Wrestling, where he most recently ate a loss from Scott Scarsdale... but the more seasoning he gets, the more he can offer. I, for one, would love to see more of him. I can't be alone there.

Does the Northern Studd Still Matter?
Let's be honest here... Without Fronz Roddy at his side, it's hard to believe that the Northern Studd even exists. Studd slept through a tag title victory. When he wasn't being carried on Fronz's back through the reign, he was, instead, being led by the hand. Studd is directly responsible for their tag title loss. Personally, I won't rest until he is banned from ever competing again. It's more than he deserves. Three months ago he was near mythical... now he means nothing. The Minister claims he will be competing in a match NOT featuring Fronz... Can you say: "Bathroom Break"?

No. Seriously. Can you?

Ok. What's the Deal with Touch'ole/Good Lord Willing?
So, yeah, one with a discerning eye knew they were one and the same after seeing his debut at "Defy the Odds" in April... but what CASUAL fan really knew? He, allegedly, produced that questionable promo to keep the speculation going. Then the big(?) reveal at Summertime Bruise. With Burton now in power, Touch'ole is suspended... But there have been hints that we haven't seen the last of him. Also, Burton's promo (linked above) planted seeds that Ian Daniels wanted revenge following the Ballston Spa Screwjob. There's some potential here for intrigue. And who doesn't like intrigue?

Summertime Bruise DVD On Sale!
The other day I reached out to IYFW officials, inquiring if this great event would be available for purchase at Saturday's event. They quickly replied an emphatic YES! It's also available for order via their site. I will absolutely be snagging that this weekend and suggest you do the same, especially if you dig a fun battle royale! Between the efforts of all involved, the performance of guys like Roman Dominguez, Bobby Ocean, and yes - Ricky Rockett - this is a can't miss purchase. Looking forward to popping it in my DVD player and sucking down a few cold ones after Saturday nights show!

I Still Don't Trust You, Maxx!
Nuff said.
But keep the promos coming!

Also announced for the show:
- WAR
- SuperBeast
- Celtic Crew
- Drake Evans
- Scott Scaradale
...and more!

Unannounced Talent I'd Like to See:
- Ian Daniels
- Ricky Rockett
- Capital Punishment
- CJ Scott
- Justin Foxx (if only so the crowd can beg him to perish)

Let's talk about the matches we KNOW are going down:

IYFW Tag Team Championship
Adam Badger and Michael Monroe (c) VS Shiloh Robinson and Ricky Williams
One of the biggest attractions that In Your Face Wrestling offers is undoubtedly their tag division. Every tag match I have seen in their ring (with the exception of maybe one) has been packed with action and excitement and their BEST tag bouts have featured THESE GUYS! The Enemy snatched the belts from the International Ego Trip at Coronation Cup in June and have proven themselves a strong pairing along the way, most recently securing a victory over The Killer Steves in August. Meanwhile, Robinson and Williams are a relatively new pairing that are still trying to prove themselves, following the injury of Jamar Justice - and injury that, at the time, derailed The Uprising's climb up the tag ranks. Shiloh is absolutely the greatest choice as a replacement on the team ... Yet I have to wonder what might happen when Jamar gets healthy again? But I'm getting ahead of myself.
PAUL's PREDICTION: The Enemy retain. I can't vote against Badger's mask.

IYFW New Breed Championship
Roman Dominguez VS MIGHTY Fronz Roddy
Awww, man. On the one hand, I kind of want to break my cycle of always predicting that Roman will drop his belt when, clearly, that hasn't been in the cards. Dominguez has proven his critics wrong at every turn and has wowed the IYFW faithful with his stiff kicks and shocking displays of blistering power. With this win, Dominguez will claim the unofficial title of winningest champion in the promotions history... And it would be hard to bet against him. On the other hand, standing across the ring from him is, quite possibly, one of the most impressive performers in the promotion. Fronz Roddy has held more gold in this company than anyone else and is THIS close to stepping even FURTHER ahead and away from the rest of the pack. Unlike the defending New Breed champ, Roddy hasn't had the greatest luck between bells; recently allowing the Northern Studd to blow their tag title reign to shit and then following it up with a loss to Liam McFerrin of all people back in August. Smart money says that a competitor like Roddy is BOUND to bounce back, sooner rather than later and if anyone can bring out the best in The Mighty One it's the Pillar.
PAUL's PREDICTION: I have given this a lot of consideration. A lot. And you know what? I'm going to predict that ROMAN will retain. Why? Because he didn't want me to pick him, for one... And also because Fronz Roddy is a man who held the IYFW Championship for over a year, longer than anyone else, and I'm not convinced he can be considered "new breed".

IYFW Championship
Vigo VS Pierre Vachon
Much has been said about this match, both here and on IYFWrestling.com, about this contest. The bad blood. The long road that has led to all of this. More than just "a title" is on the line in this match, more than bragging rights, there is HISTORY to be made, here! Maxx Burton played a big role in allowing this match to go down, by adding Vachon as the final entrant in the IN YOUR FACE RUMBLE. Burton has played a role in the finish of the last few IYFW Championship matches... Will he be needed in THIS match, also? It is known that Vigo's valet, Yvonna Leach, won't be in Ballston Spa and - therefore - won't be a target or a distraction. We also know that FINALLY Guillaume de Sade will be back in IYFW this Saturday... Will HE insert himself into things? He has a vicious and brutal history with Vigo that may not be fully resolved. And how about CJ Scott? He was an ally of Vigo's not too long ago, but showed back at the end of Summertime Bruise that he is NOT a fan of the big man... Perhaps jealous of the gold stretched across Vigo's waist? A lot of variables in this contest that go beyond the implied chaos that Vigo and Vachon in the same ring represent. How to predict a winner? Like this.
PAUL's PREDICTION: No Contest. Would be cool if there was no clear winner in this (most Internet wrestling nerds HATE non-finishes in big matches, but I am not most Internet wrestling nerds)... Let's see a huge clusterfuck at the end that leads to a tag main event at the next show and then, finally, a "must be a winner" style match (has IYFW ever done a cage match?) at the FOLLOWING show. I dunno. Just a thought.

History will be made on October 1st. Will YOU be there?

Two Can't Miss Matches on October 1st!

As a faithful reader recently pointed out to me, it's been a while since my last update here at Wrestlefudge. That's not for a lack of content to report and analyze, that's for sure, but I've just been waiting for that ONE piece of news or that ONE announcement to pounce on... that ONE match announcement that will rock everyone's world, when really it's been in front of me for weeks.

There is no ONE match to be super psyched about at IYFW's Cauldron of Hate event in just one week. There are TWO.

On the one hand, we have the IYFW Championship bout between the two behemoths of IYFW, Vigo and Vachon. I've documented - fairly well, I'd say - the bad blood between these two men since this blogs inception. For a detailed rundown of the malice built up between these two men I advise you to check out IYFW's featurette on their site here.

Yes, the bad blood is cool. Two guys that want to tear each other apart over personal differences is ALWAYS fun to watch unfold, let's be serious. Having a title on the line is also always cool, especially when it's the promotions top title. I dig the champion, Vigo, and his energy when he comes through the curtain. The fans love him and respond to him. Pierre Vachon is the beast both in name and in effect. He interacts with the fans in such a fun fashion that most want his head on a plate by the end of the bout; it's a true gift. But do you want to know what has ME most intrigued and excited about this bout? The revelation by IYFW's fantastic commentator and analyst, Joey LaRoque, that neither man has ever been pinned in an IYFW ring.

I LOVE that.

Look at the playing field in the entire professional wrestling industry... There aren't a a TON of top-tier guys who have NEVER had their shoulders down for three fateful seconds... To have two of them squaring off and the distinct possibility that, for one of these two guys, history could be made, that makes for an added, intangible layer of intrigue to the contest that absolutely makes it "must see" in my book.

Kudos to IYFW promoters for recognizing that and capitalizing on it!

Speaking of "history being made"... That brings me to the OTHER "must see" contest on October 1st.

You guessed it: Roman Dominguez VS Fronz Roddy for the IYFW New Breed Title.

To be totally honest I really don't know which match I am most looking forward to. I referenced all that's on the line in the Vigo/Vachon match; the title, the bad blood, the history. A lot of similar undertones in this contest as well, minus the bad blood. Heres a quick synopsis: Dominguez is on the cusp of becoming the longest reigning title holder in IYFW history and a win in this match would cement that as reality. Roddy, with a title victory here, would be the first and only man in IYFW history to hold every title. That's a big deal! What makes this match extra, extra interesting is the heel VS heel dynamic. I'm interested to see how the IYFW fans take to this contest and am GUESSING that Dominguez will be the man they get behind; he is harder hitting, for one and it's become clear to me that the fans just don't recognize (or appreciate) the mighty majesty that Fronz Roddy brings to the ring.

The other wrinkle in all of this is that I have to somehow predict who's going to WIN this match! Ugh.

When you take these two matches on their own this is CLEARLY a can't miss event. The other bout announced is far from shabby, also! IYFW Tag straps will be on the line as The Uprising gets their shot at the dominant Enemy. I have been high on all FOUR of these guys since discovering In Your Face Wrestling and have been looking forward to this match for months!

Also teased for the big show?
- the return of Guillaume de Sade! Holy shit!
- SuperBeast in action!
- Ian Daniels wants to avenge his foolish loss to Good Lord Willing!
- Minister of Wrestling Operations, Maxx Burton, is sure to be in the building!
- and, I imagine, a hell of a lot more!

The show is one brief week away! I pre-ordered my tickets hella early and suggest you grab YOURS now! You'll find me in the front row, swing by and say hello!

Coming soon on the 'fudge!!!!

• IYFW Superstar Spotlight


• "Cauldron of Hate" PREVIEWS/PREDICTIONS


• In Your Face FANTASY BOOKING


• IYFW has been touting some changes... What's MY take?


• ...and much more!

Thanks for swinging by.

The Mighty Manifesto: an interview with Fronz Roddy

He is one of the most decorated stars of IN YOU FACE WRESTLING's history and certainly among it's most passionate performers. This man has recently rid himself of some dead weight, and one half of the tag titles, and is on the cusp of another impressive singles run. Where did this athlete come from? Where does he plan on going? And just what makes him so MIGHTY?

He is Fronz Roddy.

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WF: First of all... thank you for taking the time to do this interview. Anyone that frequents this site knows that I am a big fan of your work and to have the opportunity to do this is such an honor. In Your Face Wrestling puts on a fantastic show and there is no denying that you are a huge part of the overall experience and I really want to thank you for being the first featured interview here on the site.

FRONZ: Well you're right, it is an honor to be interviewing me. I have alot of offers for interviews and special appearances and whatnot, so consider yourself lucky.

WF: Ok, tell me about your roots.

FRONZ: Rocketed to Earth from a doomed planet, I was raised on a small farm in Kansas...wait, that's not it. The bite of a genetically altered spider granted....wait a minute. Caught in the middle of a gamma ray blast, brilliant scientist.....nope. Four turtles in the sewer covered in ooze.....haha, just joking with that one.

WF: Clearly.

FRONZ: But seriously, I was a lonely kid growing up.

WF: Still joking?

FRONZ: No! It was hard going through school being better than the other kids at everything. Nobody could match my intellect, or keep up with me in physical education. So, I found solace in two things: pro wrestling, and comic books. Yes, that's right, The Mighty One loves comics. I loved seeing these muscular guys beating up on the weak. Superman would throw wimpy Lex Luthor into jail by the scruff of his neck. Batman had no problem pummeling the Joker into a stupor. All the out of shape villains were vastly outmatched by the physically superior. I was inspired. So naturally, I was drawn to pro wrestling. And I knew at an early age that if I wanted to be a great wrestler, I would have to get in shape. So that's what started my love for bodybuilding and physical fitness (something I can see that you don't practice much).

WF: I'm really interested in hearing about your early days in the sport. Who trained you and tell me about your training, etc...

FRONZ: I became friends with two wrestlers from VT, who got me started and showed me the very basics of pro wrestling. But they were hacks, and didn't provide me with the experience that I needed. I was a quick learner, it all came very naturally to me, and I needed more than they were able to provide for me. I had to get away from those guys if I ever wanted to go anywhere in this business. So I ventured out, and began wrestling for Slam All-Star Wrestling out of St. Albans VT and a few other places before winding up in IYFW, learning and gathering experience along the way from whoever I could.

WF: Obviously, you're as big a fan of the business as you are of yourself. If you could point to one performer who, when you were younger, made you want to do what you do today, who would it be?

FRONZ: When I was young, I was a big fan of the WWF and the top stars like Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage, but it wasn't until later when I discovered Ric Flair, and I knew that I wanted to be a wrestler like him. He just bled success. He was in great shape, was the world champion countless times, got the girls, flew on jet planes, everything I wanted to aspire to be.

WF: Of all of the athletes and performers you have encountered in your career... Who do you have the MOST respect for... Other than yourself?

FRONZ: Other than myself? Oof, that's a tough one. 

WF: Asking the hard questions is kinda what I do.

FRONZ: I used to have respect for the Nothern Studd, till he proved to be a worthless tag partner. What a sap! I will say that young Adam Badger has impressed me. Not only is he one of the most physically fit guys in IYFW and a terrific athlete, but he let's the fat fans know what's on his mind, even if it is sometimes colorful. Megastar Michael Monroe is slowly gaining my respect as well. And Pierre Vachon, a man whom I've had many battles with, has my respect as well. He may not be slim and trim like myself, but he is a monster of a man who gets the job done. And I don't hate "The Pillar" Roman Dominguez. He's ok.

WF: At this point, what would you describe as your ultimate goal in this business?

FRONZ: To be the top star in every organization I encounter. Crush my enemies, see them driven before me, and hear the lamentation of the women.

WF: I dig it, I dig it. Looking back at your storied career, what would you say has been your greatest moment in the ring?

FRONZ: I've had many great moments in the ring, but reigning as the IYFW champ for over a year was definetly a crowning achievment.

WF: Tell me about your time as THE longest reigning IYFW Champion.

FRONZ: I won't lie, it was difficult, taking on all comers, and being challenged for the belt as often as I was. But the Mighty survive, and everyone found that out when they got in the ring with me. I'd still be champion, but Drake Evans stole the title from me. He always had the odds in his favor, be it a stop sign in one match or the unfair advantage of the lumberjacks in my rematch. Notice how none of the champions since Drake have given me a title match? They're all afraid.

WF: We have seen the balance of power at the top of IYFW shift several times in the last 5 months. In recent memory alone we've seen Harold Touch'ole, and now Maxx Burton calling the shots... Where does Fronz Roddy fit in the grand scheme of things? With the mind that you clearly have for the business and the technical acumen you display in the ring... Would you agree that YOU are the most qualified and deserving man to be running the promotion?

FRONZ: Oh most def. Have I mentioned that I was the LONGEST reigning IYFW champion in history?

WF: Actually, *I* mentioned it...

FRONZ: Add the fact that I single handedly held the IYFW tag team championship on two seperate occasions, and nobody can match me in terms of strength and brains? I should be in charge. Unfortunetly, the schedule for an IYF official would cut into my demanding work out schedule. I spend more time training in a day than most people spend standing up in an entire week. I would have to refurnish the offices into a gym, and I don't think they have the money for the equipment I require.

WF: The Northern Studd... You were paired with him and had great success. Following the teams breakup in June, where does that leave you two? You were originally advertised to face the Studd in August at the BACC, but were instead booked against Liam McFerrin. Without revealing too much about what goes on on the other side of the curtain... I have to ask, What's the deal with you and the Studd? Will we see a resolution, i.e.; you beating him into oblivion for his unsolicited insolence?

FRONZ: It's strange, I have known the Northern Studd since I started in this business nearly 10 years ago, and I have never had a one on one match against him. Finally, the IYF offices were going to give me the chance to teach him a lesson and sign us to our first match. And guess what? He doesn't show up. Obviously, he is avoiding a confrontation with me. He won't be able to dodge me forever. One of these days, he won't be able to run anymore, and he will have to face my wrath.

WF: Naturally... let's talk about the tag team division in IYFW. I would argue that in spite of the absence of The International Ego Trip and Fronz Himself from the tag scene, that the tag scene is one of the biggest draws of the promotion given the depth of talent alone. Obviously, Monroe and Badger stand solid at the top, but right behind them are The Uprising, the Killer Steves, Celtic Crew, along with the impending, rumored return of Capital Punishment. This division is stacked. Am I nuts? What do you think about the tag division and will we see you re-enter the division with a more suitable tag partner any time soon?

FRONZ: First of all, you're a Mighty Fronz fan, so you're not completely nuts. Secondly, the tag division is very strong right now, despite my absence, with some exciting tag teams that you know of and some I've heard may be on the horizon. Thirdly, I don't see myself re-entering the tag division at this point of time, mostly because I don't see anybody I would consider worthy to be my partner. I have my sights set on another title anyway, so I'm much too busy.

WF: Since you're freely dispensing some opinion... let's do some quick word association:

FRONZ; Yeah yeah yeah...

WF: Northern Studd
FRONZ: Disgraceful

WF: Adrienne Blackhart
FRONZ: Harlot

WF: Maxx Burton
FRONZ: Axe....body spray. Haw! Get it? Cause they call him "The Ax"? I'm brilliant!

WF: Hmmm. Vigo
FRONZ: Champ...for now.

WF: Scott Scarsdale
FRONZ: Resourceful

WF: Ian Daniels
FRONZ: Who?

WF: Super Beast
FRONZ: Creature from the Black Lagoon

WF: Harold Touch'ole
FRONZ: Cunning

WF: Referee Adam Brunton
FRONZ: Screech

WF: "The Pillar" Roman Dominguez

FRONZ: Crafty

WF: Adam Badger
FRONZ: Censored

WF: Shiloh Robinson
FRONZ: Greenhorn

WF: ... and finally... Who do you like in the big title bout set to go down between Pierre "The Beast" Vachon and defending IYfW Champion, Vigo? ...and do you think we'll see a Mighty Champion anytime soon?

FRONZ: My money goes to The Beast. Vigo is a big, strong competitor, but he's got a conscience. He won't do what needs to be done to get the job done. Vachon, however, is a monster that has no conscience. He has no problem crossing the line to win. And I think that may come into play on October 1st. And it is only a matter of time before we have a Mighty champion again, and this time, I can guarantee that I will surpass my previous record title reign.

WF: Well... thanks again for taking your time and good luck in the "Cauldron"!

FRONZ: Haha! "Luck"...whatever.