Moree is set to experience the spectacle of live professional wrestling for the first time this weekend, with Pro Wrestling Australia (PWA) bringing some of the country’s top wrestling talent to Moree Memorial Hall this Saturday, 13 June.
The family-friendly event promises championship matches, tag team contests and the highly anticipated Moree Memorial Rumble, delivering what organisers describe as a night packed with action, drama and athleticism.
PWA wrestler Skater Boi Pidgey, who will be among those stepping into the ring, said regional shows have become an important part of the promotion’s success.
“In the last few years, PWA has found a lot of success travelling to regional areas for shows,” he said.
“It’s a completely different atmosphere, and Moree was chosen because we think Moree can bring that exciting atmosphere that we love.”
For those attending their first wrestling event, Pidgey said nothing compares to seeing the action unfold live.
“Experiencing Pro Wrestling live is such a unique thing because you are part of the show,” he said.
“The crowd plays a huge role in the atmosphere of an event, whether it’s cheering on your favourites or booing the wrestlers you hate or just making as much noise as possible.”
Fans can expect plenty of memorable moments throughout the evening.
“So much can happen at a PWA show,” Pidgey said.
“You could see history made with a Championship changing hands. With tag team action, there are more competitors, which means more chances for amazing moments.
“The Moree Memorial Rumble will most likely be everyone’s highlight when the night ends. A match where anything could happen, it’s bound to cap off a huge night.”
PWA has become one of Australia’s premier wrestling promotions, producing talent that has gone on to perform on the international stage. Alumni include WWE star Grayson Waller, Kyle Fletcher of AEW and Robbie Eagles, who competes for New Japan Pro Wrestling.
According to Pidgey, the organisation plays a vital role in developing the next generation of Australian wrestlers.
“PWA’s role is very important when it comes to developing the next gen of Aussie wrestlers,” he said.
“We have some of the best coaching in the world, and our amazing roster shows that.”
The growth of Australian wrestling has been driven by both the quality of local talent and opportunities to bring the sport to new audiences.
“That’s why shows like Moree are so important because we get the chance to grow Aussie wrestling even further,” Pidgey said.
He said regional communities were crucial to the future of the industry.
“The wrestling scene in Australia is growing, and when we travel to these regional communities, someone could be exposed to the crazy world of wrestling for the first time and find that it’s something they really love and who knows, maybe the next big PWA star could be from Moree.”
Among the wrestlers fans should keep an eye on are Robbie Eagles, fresh from competing in New Japan Pro Wrestling’s Best of the Super Juniors Tournament, Jack J Bonza and Queensland standout Andre Irons.
Before the action begins, fans will have the chance to meet the wrestlers during a planned meet-and-greet session, with photo opportunities also available after the show.
For anyone still undecided about attending, Pidgey had a simple message.
“You should buy a ticket,” he said.
“I’ve had so many friends be on the fence about going to a show, and now they come to every show they can. It’ll be an amazing night that you’ll talk about for a long time.”
Addressing common misconceptions about professional wrestling, Pidgey said the physical demands are often underestimated.
“There’s this misconception that Pro Wrestling doesn’t seem to hurt or ‘isn’t real’,” he said.
“But I can tell you when I’m getting thrown around the ring, it hurts more than anything. Every punch, kick, and slam is real.
“And that’s what it’s all about.”
Tickets are on sale now via Try Booking.
Something going on in your part of the New England people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@netimes.com.au