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SEA WRESTLING MAGAZING ISSUE 8 WEB VERSION
What's Going Down? - News & Results
Philippines
DEXCON has significantly increased its event schedule in 2026, running Fast Break on February 15th and Wrestle Storm 3 on March 14th (full results later in this magazine). The promotion also announced that Minoru Suzuki will appear on April 12th at Dito Naman.
The event’s venue remains uncertain as DEXCON and World Underground Wrestling are constructing a new wrestling ring. Previously, the promotions operated using a modified boxing ring. The new ring is expected to provide a safer and more traditional setup, while also allowing for greater venue flexibility and potentially larger audiences.
Carlo Cannon was removed from the Wrestle Storm 3 main event for undisclosed reasons and replaced by Kuroshio TOKYO Japan (formerly Ikemen Jiro in NXT 2.0).
DEXCON’s Peksman event from last summer is now expected to appear on Triller. With several Sari-Sari Slam matches already released for free on YouTube, the delayed release has raised questions about the platform strategy.
Following AEW’s move to its own streaming service, Triller’s long-term role in wrestling distribution remains uncertain.
PUSO Wrestling streamed an event on February 8th. Serafin & Solomon Liwanag defeated Ken Cifer & Hakai Mateo, while HY/OP members Isaiah Valencia, Nigel San Jose and Chelsea Marie defeated Super P, Robin Sane and Enzo following interference from Jake De Leon. In the main event, the PUSO Wrestling Champion successfully defended the title against Joya.
The promotion’s next event, Headlocks, Headbangs & Heartbreaks, took place at Sari-Sari Bar and featured live bands performing alongside the wrestling matches. Jake De Leon defeated Danny Zamora in the main event to retain the championship.
It remains unclear whether PUSO Wrestling will also use the new ring currently being built by DEXCON and WUW.
JOMAR is scheduled to travel to Guangzhou on March 29th to face Big Sam for KOPW.
Filipino Pro Wrestling held Astig on March 8th at Baked Studios in Makati. The show was sold out and appeared to continue the promotion’s recent momentum following its smaller “Secret Show” events at the training school.
PAGSUBOK sa QC is scheduled for April 12th, featuring Jan Evander challenging Ralph Imbayashi for the FPW Metro Manila Championship.
The promotion also announced a new PLE-style event for May, although it is unclear whether the show will be broadcast.
Meanwhile, FPW Astig Season 2 Part 2 is expected to resume on YouTube shortly, potentially covering events from mid-2024 to the present.
Legendarius, previously named our Rookie of the Year, has continued to hint at retirement while also teasing a wrestling-related film project.
Penny Haze recently trained at the Ice Ribbon dojo in Japan alongside fellow Filipino wrestler Yappy. Yappy has previously helped coordinate training opportunities for several Filipino wrestlers, including Patricia Ligaia in 2025. Haze competed in at least one dojo show during the trip.
World Underground Wrestling announced two upcoming Brawlpit events.
Fight Night 3 takes place April 18th as a pay-what-you-can standing event featuring the return of chain ropes. Master Wars, scheduled for June 14th, will celebrate the anniversary of Fugo Fugo Yumeji.
Thailand
PSE Asia celebrated its anniversary with a homecoming event at the PSE Performance Center in Pattaya. Full match results have not yet been released, but one confirmed result saw Chad “The Gift” win the CWE China Championship, becoming the first foreign wrestler to hold the title. The promotion continues to livestream events for Chinese audiences while also running regular shows at venues including El Santo Bangkok.
SETUP held Tomyum Pro Wrestling on January 24th. Results included Admin Oak defeating Manuel, Anont Alonzo defeating Mc Nexo, Dewdy defeating P’Suchart, and Kevin Weng defeating Naga Nai.
SETUP also presented Real Global Impact from Circus Studio on February 21st (results later in the magazine).
Monomoth has been announced for Effy’s Big Gay Brunch 11 on April 18th, presented by GCW during WrestleMania weekend.
Matcha will also compete at TJPW’s Grand Princess, participating in a rumble-style gauntlet match on March 29th.
The next SETUP show is Absolute Mayhem on May 2nd from Circus Studio. Jonathan Johnson, Jake De Leon, Ray & Selina and Bad Company have all been announced.
TOP Dojo announced its first 2026 event, Rise, scheduled for March 29th at the Motorway Dojo.
Malaysia
Malaysia Pro Wrestling (MYPW) announced their first show of 2026, New Breed 4, set for April 4th at the KuAsh Theatre. The event will feature the return of the Raya Rumble, alongside several key matches. Cornelius Low and a mystery partner will face LOVExFRDM, Miles Karu challenges Shivam for the Southeast Asian Championship opportunity he earned last year, and BGJ, KAIZUL, Jack Alexander, and Bobby Sinaga compete in a four-way contest. Other matches include Poppy Shay vs. Marika Kobashi and Emman Azman vs. Wonderboy. The main event sees VPW’s Ares challenge Carlo Cannon for the MYPW World Championship.
Joshi standout Marika Kobashi has reportedly relocated to Kuala Lumpur and is expected to make more appearances across the region.
In February, Indonesian promotion IDPW hosted Malaysian veteran Cornelius LOW for a guest training session as the country continues efforts to build a stronger professional wrestling foundation.
Wonderboy has also been added to MKW’s All-Star Tour, a two-date supershow taking place in Chongqing and Chengdu. He will team with Chinese wrestler Coldray as Bold & Badd against Sunny Z and Benji.
APAC Wrestling announced their next event, Edge of Glory, for April 4th. Currently confirmed matches include Shaukat vs. Brian Kendrick, while The Retis and Eurasian Dragon are also scheduled to appear. Results for Wrestle Legion 2 can be found later in this issue.
There has been no update on Nor Diana’s WWE tryout. WWE has promoted the tryouts heavily on social media, and Nor Diana was recently spotted ringside at a televised NXT show.
APAC Wrestling has released a behind-the-scenes documentary on YouTube detailing the planning and execution of SlamFest.
Shaukat returned to Reality of Wrestling for Battle to the Bell on February 7th. However, details of his match and the event results have not yet been publicly released by the promotion.
Singapore
SPW opened its 2026 calendar with Club Carnage at Lunar Club, drawing an estimated crowd of over 150 fans. Results appear later in this magazine.
Minoru Suzuki will also appear in Singapore on April 10th at Kings Landing, where he is scheduled to face Da Butcherman.
Other announced matches include VPW’s Ares vs. Aiden Rex in a rematch from last year, Madkat Karina & Alexis Lee vs. Selina & Marika Kobashi, Jack N’ Cheese defending the SPW Tag Team Championships against Mighty Arrow and The Real Global Threat (The Statement & Emman Azman), and Dr. Gore challenging CK Vin for the Singapore Championship.
SPW also announced Smackdown at Soon Lee, another migrant worker community show featuring The Statement, Mason and Bryson Blade against Da Butcherman & Mighty Arrow.
Jack N’ Cheese and Alexis Lee also appeared for PWS Korea. Lee competed in the match to crown the inaugural PWS Women’s Champion but was defeated by Poison Rose. BGJ and CBK both participated in a rumble match but were unsuccessful.
Alexis Lee has also announced she will travel to Las Vegas during WrestleMania week to compete for Pandemonium Pro Wrestling against Joseline Navarro.
Vietnam
VPW Spring Bash was another sellout for the promotion (results later in issue). So much so that they’re experimenting with other venues, including an outdoor location for Saigon Slam. It’s likely they will use VAIB during the rainy season, however.
New Japan Chairman Naoki Sugabayashi was in attendance at Spring Bash and directly told our editor how much he thoroughly enjoyed the show.
Vietnam Pro Wrestling continued its Outside the Ring podcast series with interviews featuring Meteor Kid and KPY, both discussing their motivations for entering professional wrestling and the challenges of pursuing the sport in Vietnam.
The promotion also announced that a selection of matches from 2025 will be released on YouTube with English commentary by Xavier Patricks and Walker Stewart. Stewart is best known as the English-language commentator for New Japan Pro Wrestling and has also worked with AEW.
VPW also held an Open Day on February 28th featuring workshops, Q&A sessions, and exhibition matches. Ares defeated Rensho in the main event.
RING OF REBIRTH - FAST 4 EVER
Ring of Rebirth presented Comedy Wrestling - Fast 4 Ever on Saturday 7th March from their usual home of Goldpine Industrial Building in Singapore. Building on the recent successful shows that feature a mix of regulars, SPW and APAC Wrestling talent, the event continued to build up the current storylines.
The wrestling opened with Tok Bomoh Mekong against newcomer Fariz who got off to an impressive, offence-filled start. Despite some nifty counters including dodging the spike he was put down by the magic coconut for the three in this quick encounter.
Next up was the Fast 4 Ever match where the annual stipulation is the loser must continue to fast in daylight hours... forever.
The unusual looking Spider-Pura was made quick work of by the very loud masked Sabro in a grounded match that saw Spider-Pura get too cocky and end up in a tight Boston crab. Sabro will go a long way with his personality.
Tobias Frost cockily came out to introduce his charge Raga Ngadai which led to Eurasian Dragon making their rematch a 2 on 1 encounter.
Luckily, like any good wrestler Frost had his ring gear on under his robe. Raga and Dragon hit each other hard while Frost played the cowardly manager to perfection. A ref bump ended up allowing Ngadai to hit the one arm slam for the win in the match of the night.
Dragon hits a German (great name for a children’s book) but the ref is still down. Then his piledriver is stopped by an eye rake from Frost and a huge one-arm slam from Ngadai gets the pin.
Good match, best of the night. Dragon’s experience keeps bringing the best out of Ngadai and they should put this match on in APAC as well.
Up next was the scheduled main event as Sayn RH came out to challenge Erfie Blackheart for the ROR Championship. The story being that Erfie did not end Tok Bomoh Mekong who the mobster is hunting. Yes the gag is they are the same person.
Despite an aggressive start from Sayn, pounding on Erfie, the champ hit the jumping DDT for the lightning quick win.
Not to disappoint, after the regular Q + A Dragon made Erfie pick teams and the bonus six man saw Dragon’s biggest rivals in Erife, Frost and Ngadai take on him, Sayn and Sabro. After a huge brawl, Ngadai hit his one arm slam on Sayn for the win.
Despite being small in stature, ROR offers a real fun fluid booking form that draws you in when watching on the IG livestreams. Check it out! @ringofrebirth
FPW ASTIG
Filipino Pro Wrestling returned to Makati on March 8th with FPW Astig, packing out Baked Studios for a sold-out night of action that saw rising rivalries, shocking debuts, and a new champion crowned in the main event.
The evening opened with the returning Kimmy Larue picking up a win over Rio Ruffino in a competitive singles match that quickly got the crowd energized. Larue controlled much of the bout with sharp offense and composure, eventually putting Ruffino away to start the show on a high.
Next up, Jan Evander defeated Joshua Ellevistah in singles competition, while Rated SPG managed to score an upset victory over the YOLO Twins!
One of the night’s most shocking moments came before The Enigmatic Charisma Jeffrey could even begin his scheduled match against Duke Ortega. A masked figure stormed the ring and brutally attacked Jeffrey. The mysterious monster soon revealed himself as ZABOS, laying waste to both Jeffrey and Ortega in a destructive introduction that put the entire locker room on notice.
The four-way clash between Ralph Imabayashi, Penny Haze, Robynn, and Roxxy Reeves descended into chaos. The turning point came when Reeves shockingly betrayed her partners mid-match, allowing Imabayashi to capitalize and secure the victory.
Elsewhere on the card, Mike Madrigal earned an impressive win over the debuting Kid Kwago, continuing his rise within FPW.
The high-energy three-way contest between Cali Nueva, Thiago, and Mharckie kept the pace quick and the crowd engaged, with Thiago ultimately emerging victorious after outlasting both opponents.
The night culminated in a high-stakes double championship match as Kushida defeated Quatro to become the new FPW Champion. In a dramatic main event that had the Makati crowd fully invested, Kushida managed to overcome the reigning champion and close the show standing tall with the title.
During the event, FPW founder Red Ollero also announced two upcoming shows. On April 12, FPW will present Pagsubok sa QC, a more intimate showcase held at the FPW Secret Base in Quezon City. The event promises a louder, closer experience for fans, focusing on the heart and fighting spirit that define Filipino Pro Wrestling. Ollero also revealed that an FPW Premium Live Event is scheduled for May 17, though the event name and further details will be announced in the coming weeks.
With a sold-out crowd, a destructive debut from ZABOS, and Kushida crowned as the new champion, FPW Astig delivered a memorable night and set the stage for an exciting few months ahead for Filipino Pro Wrestling.
SETUP REAL GLOBAL IMPACT
SETUP Thailand wasted no time in kicking off their 2026 season at Real Global Impact as the show turned corners on major storylines and produced a match of the year candidate.
SETUP’s Real Global Impact opened in front of one of the loudest crowds the promotion has enjoyed in some time, and the difference was immediately noticeable. As the show went live, SPW’s Darren handled special ring announcing duties while a venue already fuller than usual buzzed with anticipation. Even small details felt significant, including the welcome return of the video screen, but more than anything it was clear the audience had arrived ready to make themselves heard.
Admin Oak and Manuel set the tone early in what quietly became one of the promotion’s more encouraging developmental showcases. Manuel entered looking genuinely happy simply to be there, while Oak followed carrying himself with noticeably greater confidence and far improved conditioning compared to his previous appearances. The match quickly settled into a straightforward contrast between Oak’s strength and Manuel’s speed, though it didn’t take long for power to win that argument. Oak targeted the leg early, grounding Manuel and forcing him away from his natural tempo.
Manuel fought back where he could, even resorting to stomping and biting Oak’s hands in a scrappy attempt to neutralise the strength advantage, but Oak’s control steadily returned. After both exchanged increasingly heavy strikes, Oak sealed victory with a decisive slam and kick to the face. It was a short match, yet an impressive one, highlighting how quietly SETUP’s younger talent had improved away from public attention over the past year.
The main portion of the show began when a dance troupe attempting to exit were interrupted by Kappa Kozou, who shocked both performers and audience alike by planting one of them with a Pedigree. The crowd reaction was enormous, a reminder that whatever changed between last year and now, SETUP’s audience had rediscovered its voice.
Momentum continued with the fifth and deciding encounter between Kevin Weng and Kru Pol, representing the culmination of the St John Innocent College rivalry. With the series tied and a research grant at stake, an excellent video package reinforced both history and emotional investment, something increasingly rare for midcard programmes elsewhere.
Pol’s undubbed entrance audio allowed the audience’s genuine affection to come through clearly, and the match itself reflected two competitors who knew each other intimately. Exchanges became mirrored responses, counters arriving almost before attacks fully developed. Weng pushed the pace early and even introduced a textbook as a weapon — an act that felt personally offensive to any fellow educator watching, but Pol continually found answers.
As fatigue set in, the contest became increasingly desperate. Near falls accumulated until Weng hesitated attempting a double-arm DDT, allowing Pol to capitalise with a sudden roll-up for the victory.
Together they delivered what felt like genuine world-class flyweight wrestling, recalling early cruiserweight rivalries or the effortless chemistry once seen between Jody Fleisch and Jonny Storm. The subsequent reconciliation and reunion of St John Innocent College added emotional closure while simultaneously setting future direction.
“Recalling early cruiserweight rivalries or the effortless chemistry once seen between Jody Fleisch and Jonny Storm”
International competition followed as Jonathan Johnson faced Isaiah Valencia in a match carrying intriguing implications given Johnson’s recent time competing in Japan. Johnson’s early arrogance quickly backfired when Valencia matched him technically before dumping him outside and unleashing vicious chops in front of the crowd. Control shifted repeatedly as Valencia demonstrated surprising power alongside technical precision, clearly determined to prove his belonging on a larger stage.
A Figure Four forced Johnson into survival mode before momentum swung again through a sudden superkick and counter exchange. Valencia’s spear looked decisive, yet Johnson recovered just enough to rally, landing a jumping cutter followed by a swanton for the victory. The match perhaps could have extended further, but its pacing suited the audience and reinforced Valencia’s growing credibility despite defeat.
Naga Nai and P’Suchart then delivered one of the night’s more story-driven encounters. Based on the duo’s long history of training and teaming together. Following a Thai-language promo from Terry Diesel, Suchart entered to strong support and immediately adopted an aggressive approach, overwhelming Nai with strikes before the darker elements of Nai’s character emerged. The contest devolved into a personal scrap between former allies, Diesel even involving himself physically when the opportunity allowed.
Suchart repeatedly escaped danger through ingenuity, nearly winning after a powerful clothesline, before outside interference shifted momentum. Low blows were exchanged, exhaustion setting in as both men fought from the canvas, until Nai ultimately resorted to powder to the face and a Naga Clutch submission finish. Post-match respect appeared to restore their relationship — briefly — before Bad Company arrived to a thunderous reception, dismantling everyone in sight and reminding viewers just how strongly local veterans still resonate with the SETUP audience. To say the SETUP debut of these Thai wrestling originals were a surprise is understating things!
If the earlier matches established momentum, the IWA Japan SETUP Tag Team Championship match elevated the entire evening. Champions Team TJPW, Miyu Yamashita and Kaya Toribami, entered to strong reactions, though challengers Matcha and Monomoth quickly matched that energy. Early technical exchanges gave way to escalating violence as tags came faster and strikes landed harder, momentum swinging wildly between both teams.
What followed was controlled chaos. Double teams, submissions, and increasingly dramatic near falls built toward sustained “This is awesome” chants as neither side maintained advantage for long. Yamashita’s devastating kicks repeatedly rescued her team, while Matcha and Monomoth answered through speed and innovation.
“The IWA Japan SETUP Tag Team Championship match elevated the entire evening.”
Demanding the match continue, the crowd pushed for five more minutes, and promoter Pumi reluctantly agreed, only for the extension to reveal itself as a trap. Real Global Threat assaulted officials before delivering a heated statement reinforcing their ideology. The chaos finally ended when Monomoth intervened, dispatching the attackers and casually drinking Shivam’s Coke Zero to send fans home on a triumphant note.
If the tag title match resembled explosive metal, the main event unfolded more like progressive rock, violent, layered, and emotionally driven. Together they capped what felt less like a routine event and more like a promotion confidently moving forward.
By the end of the night, the verdict felt unavoidable. Real Global Impact was not merely a good SETUP show but arguably its strongest offering of the past year. A revitalised crowd, advancing storylines, distinct characters, and consistently high in-ring standards demonstrated a promotion gaining momentum at precisely the right time. Watching the event unfold, it became difficult not to feel genuine excitement for where this roster and SETUP itself might head next within Southeast Asia’s evolving wrestling landscape.
ROR TV - Ep 5
Well and truly pulled from the vault and was recommended by Billy from The Classic Night as a chance to see fellow VPW roster members Khoa and Damien in action during their time in Singapore. Ring of Rebirth TV Episode 5 served as the final instalment of the short ROR television-style series and the production values were noticeably strong, with a proper commentary desk and presentation that gave the show a polished broadcast feel.
The tag title segment was built around some fun promos that showcased a lighter, more playful side of Damien and BGJ, which felt unusual compared to the personas they would later become known for. In the ring, the match was well structured to highlight the different strengths of all four competitors.
Heavy striking was brought by BGJ and Damien, while Khoa and Eurasian Dragon focused on smooth chain wrestling and strong selling. The heel and face dynamics were allowed to flow naturally, helping the story develop.
Elsewhere on the episode, John Day’s scheduled match never took place after he was shockingly thrown off a building in a storyline moment that came completely out of left field. The main event then saw Wam Bam Bellows face Battler NYC in a “conspiracy theory” match built around a speed versus power dynamic. Bellows’ constant trash talking added to the pace, and an impressive amount of action was packed into roughly six minutes.
As a quick watch, Episode 5 served as an enjoyable look back at a unique moment in Singapore wrestling and the ambition behind Ring of Rebirth’s early projects.
Grapplemax Open House
Grapplemax opened its doors for a special open house event, giving fans and curious newcomers a chance to see the promotion’s NWE Academy training environment up close. The weekend also featured several short exhibition matches designed to highlight the fundamentals taught at the school.
40-year old Scott made his debut against Shawn Phang, while tag champions DEGEN:Z proved to be too much for Rising champion Ban Sachak and Tydus. Kelvin Lang defeated Larhvin in a rare singles match, while a returning Alani teamed with BIG DAVE to defeat Nish and Simon Siah.
The following day was a ladies-exclusive session, and Divya and Sarah Coldheart defeated Alani and Radiant Rui.
VPW Best of 2025 Ep 1
Vietnam Pro Wrestling has begun releasing its Best of 2025 series on YouTube, pairing strong production values with some of the promotion’s standout matches from the year. A notable addition is Walker Stewart joining the commentary team, bringing a polished broadcast feel to the presentation. The first entry revisits Guerrilla Games from last year’s Spring Bash, an energetic multi-man contest that allows the commentators to settle into their rhythm while outlining key figures on the VPW roster. The match arguably comes across even better on video, with the camera work helping focus attention on the important moments. It also lays groundwork for ongoing stories, including the rise of KPY, the downfall of Vortex Rebellion, and the simmering rivalry between Slugshot Henry and Khoa Truong.
THE VISITORS PT - 3
Few forces have shaped the growth of Southeast Asian professional wrestling more decisively than the women who travelled into the region during its formative years.
While previous parts of this series examined visiting champions and international independent standouts, the development of women’s wrestling in Southeast Asia tells a different story, one not simply of appearances, but of foundations being built.
In the early years, local promotions had to face the fact there were not enough active women wrestlers within the region to establish sustainable divisions. The solution came through collaboration with Japan’s deeply established Joshi scene, whose performers helped give legitimacy and structure to emerging promotions.
Among the earliest and most recognisable figures was inaugural AEW Women’s World Champion Riho. Long before global television exposure, Riho competed across Southeast Asia, wrestling in Thailand and becoming a central figure in Singapore Pro Wrestling both before and during her AEW tenure. Her influence extended beyond appearances; stability at the top of the division helped anchor SPW’s women’s scene during its developmental phase. She remains the longest-reigning SPW Queen of Asia Champion at 1,491 days, a reign inevitably marked by the COVID-era pause but nonetheless symbolic of that formative period.
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Knowledge transfer has since become a recurring pattern across the region. Filipino-born Yappy has continued this cycle by regularly returning to wrestle in the Philippines while helping emerging talents such as Patricia Ligaia and Penny Haze access training opportunities in Japan through excursions with Ice Ribbon. These exchanges represent an increasingly important shift — Southeast Asian wrestlers no longer only receiving experience, but actively entering international developmental pathways.
As the regional scene matured, Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestling (TJPW) emerged as the Joshi promotion most closely associated with Southeast Asia’s modern era. Over several years, developing TJPW talent has spent extended periods competing throughout the region, strengthening women’s divisions while building familiarity between Japanese and Southeast Asian audiences.
Wrestlers such as former SPW Queen of Asia Champion Yuki Kamifuku and SETUP All Asia Women’s Champions Raku and Pom Harajuku became recurring presences, helping raise in-ring standards through consistency rather than one-off appearances. In turn, TJPW also spotlighted Southeast Asian talent — including Alexis Lee, Matcha and Nor “Phoenix” Diana — before staging co-promoted events in Malaysia alongside DDT and MYPW, and in Thailand with SETUP, further integrating the region into the wider Joshi touring network.
Today, momentum continues to accelerate. Promotions such as DEXCON have increased the regularity with which overseas female wrestlers are brought in to challenge expanding local rosters, while ties with Japan’s Joshi ecosystem continue to strengthen — including the rumoured DIANA event expected later this year.
If Riho represented early legitimacy, her mentor Emi Sakura represents infrastructure.
Widely recognised internationally for her Freddie Mercury-inspired presentation during AEW’s early years, Sakura’s regional importance runs far deeper. Partnering with future SETUP Thailand promoter Pumi Boonyatud, Sakura established Gatoh Move in Bangkok — a project that would prove transformational for Thai professional wrestling.
Originally focused on women’s wrestling, Gatoh Move quickly evolved into a training and developmental environment that produced early Thai talents including Golem Thai, P-Nutz, Paksa, Terry Diesel and Matcha. These wrestlers formed the bridge between exhibition-era wrestling and today’s globally competitive Thai scene. Emi Sakura stands as one of the central architects of modern Thai wrestling and would be an undeniable early inductee should a Southeast Asian Wrestling Hall of Fame ever be established.
Western participation followed as Southeast Asia’s credibility grew internationally. Former NXT Women’s Champion Indi Hartwell appeared in Singapore Pro Wrestling, signalling increased global recognition of the region’s promotions. More recently, Lacey Lane competed for both DEXCON and SPW, while Viva Van toured extensively as VPW Women’s Champion, wrestling across Singapore, Malaysia and Vietnam toward the end of last year. These tours reflected a changing perception: Southeast Asia was no longer simply receiving talent, but becoming a meaningful stop within international wrestling circuits.
Across two decades of gradual development, visiting women wrestlers have done more than fill cards or headline events. They have trained pioneers, stabilised divisions, transferred knowledge and connected Southeast Asia to the global wrestling landscape. In many ways, the region’s modern progress has followed the paths first carved by those visitors — proof that the growth of Southeast Asian wrestling has often moved forward when its women led the way.
That marks the end of our “The Visitors” series for now. keep an eye on future issues when we explore the importance of future imports and who could really add value to the Southeast Asian professional wrestling scene.
THE STATEMENT - ANDRUEW TANG
SEA Wrestling’s editor Simon Worden sat down with the first Southeast Asian wrestler of the modern era, founder of Singapore Pro Wrestling and world-travelled champion “The Statement” Andruew Tang to discuss his 2025, the rapid growth of SPW in the last few years, the rise of the Real Global Threat faction, and his vision for the future.
SW: 2025 was a massive year for The Statement and Singapore Pro Wrestling. What were your particular highlights?
AT: For me, definitely getting to share the ring with Tetsuya Naito. That was something really special. Growing up I was watching him wrestle, so to be in the same room and then actually step into the ring with him — and with Da Butcherman as well — that’s a huge career highlight for me. It was one of those moments where you kind of see where you stand, you know? That was really remarkable.
The match at Champions Never Yield 3 with Trent Seven was another big highlight. That one was a real banger. It was also the first time I had my nose broken in a match.
Afterwards I was walking over to the merch booth and a fan — I think she might have been someone’s girlfriend, maybe just a casual fan — looked at me and said, “Wow, the blood looks really real. Is it real?” I joked and told her it was chilli sauce, but she was completely shocked.
Last year was also when we started Real Global Threat, and I began transitioning a bit from being mainly a singles wrestler toward more tag team wrestling as well. I’m really happy with the work we’ve done with RGT so far.
SW: How did the Real Global Threat faction start?
AT: It started around the time I was preparing for my championship match with Jonathan Johnson.
“He offered me a spot in the group with the goal of making RGT a strong, innovative presence in Southeast Asia”
Shivam came to me and told me he had this idea for Real Global Threat. He offered me a spot in the group with the goal of making RGT a strong, innovative presence in Southeast Asia — kind of like our own version of Bullet Club.
Then Chris Brooks got involved as well, which was amazing. It’s honestly an honour to have someone like him join us. He really loves pro wrestling and genuinely wants to help grow the scene and the brand here. Last year was really the beginning of that whole journey for us.
SW: SPW recently built on the previous Clash at the Club shows by running Club Carnage with a full ring. How did that come about?
AT: I really focused a lot on the club shows because I felt it was something different and unique. To me, pro wrestling is entertainment, and I wanted to
attract a different kind of audience. The idea was to introduce wrestling to people who normally go clubbing and show them that it’s another form of entertainment.
If it works, why not have regular club shows alongside the usual wrestling events? When people are out, having a few drinks and suddenly there’s live wrestling happening in front of them, it creates a really unique atmosphere you know.
The earlier club shows were basically a build-up to Club Carnage. At the start, I just wanted to test the idea and see how it would work. We kept things simple and didn’t do much marketing, and the expenses were pretty low. The first show drew a little over 100 people, and the other shows were just under that, but it was a small venue inside a club, so it was still a good result.
Those shows were really just experiments to see how the concept would work. The payoff was Club Carnage, where we brought in a full ring at one of the biggest nightclubs in Singapore. It was a different kind of venue compared to a normal wrestling setting, and it created a completely different experience for the crowd.
SW: Another type of show SPW runs is the migrant worker camps shows at the end of each year. They always look exciting and fully packed.
AT: Some of the people we know work closely with the migrant worker community and even hold leadership or organising roles in the dorms. Through those connections, the idea came up: why not bring pro wrestling to the migrant worker dormitories as entertainment for them?
Once we started doing it, the response was amazing. The shows are always really well received, and every year we get invited back to do more. It’s become something everyone looks forward to.
Even this year, despite the venue being smaller, we still had around 3,000 to 4,000 people there. The atmosphere is always incredible.
SW: SPW packed out the Foo Chow Building at every show last year. Do you have any expansion plans?
AT: The brand is definitely growing stronger. We’re getting more eyeballs on the product and there’s real momentum right now. The next step is scaling up and reaching a larger audience. There’s already strong demand. King’s Landing sold about 60% of its tickets in the first week.
That’s the direction we want to go in, and I’m really happy about that. But of course the real challenge is seeing whether we can consistently sell bigger venues, maybe 1,000 seats, or even 3,000. That’s the next step for us.
I feel like in Singapore there is a strong following for wrestling. A lot of casual fans come for the international names we bring in like Naito or Omega back in 2019. Then, once they attend they just how talented our wrestlers are and they keep coming back for more.
My dream would be to run a show at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. WWE has run shows there before, so imagine being the first local promotion to reach that level and run that kind of venue. That would be a huge achievement. It feels like a long way off but never say never.
THE STATEMENT - ANDRUEW TANG (continued)
SW You have one of the most iconic characters in the region, people know who you are from the moment you step out the curtain. How important is that to being a successful wrestler?
AT: It’s very important. When people see me, they immediately recognise the character. A lot of fans think the person they see in the ring is the same as the person outside it, but that’s not really the case — it’s a character. But in wrestling, having something memorable is what makes people pay attention.
As a heel, my job is to make the fans hate me. If they’re booing me, talking about me, remembering me after the show — then I’ve done my job. That’s what makes a character work.
You also have to understand what different audiences want. Fans in Thailand might respond to something very different from fans in Singapore for example. They like more mystic characters like the Kappas over there but that would work as well with the Singapore fans who prefer something more in the real world. Comedy, intensity, storytelling — each market reacts in its own way. The key is constantly adjusting and figuring out what works, because what worked ten years ago might not work today.
Everyone knows The Statement loves to party and have a good time, and I’m not going to hide that. Wrestling takes a lot out of you — the pain, the sacrifices — so sometimes you need that release. At the same time, whenever I’m out there I’m representing myself and the company. I’m proud to say I’m a pro wrestler, even in a place like Singapore where people might still ask, “What’s that?”.
For me, wrestling shouldn’t be too safe or too generic. I grew up loving the Attitude Era because everyone had a strong personality. Every wrestler should feel different — someone you recognise immediately. When you see them, you should know exactly who they are.
SW: What happens after an SPW show? Do you have a typical ritual or night out?
AT: After the show, the first thing we do is pack everything up and get the ring and equipment back into storage. Once that’s done, we usually have a thank-you dinner for the wrestlers — both the local guys and the international talent. It’s a way to wind down after the show and spend some time together.
I’m usually very critical of my own matches. I’ll think about what worked and what could have been better. That’s why you don’t really see me posting much right after a show. A lot of wrestlers jump straight onto Instagram to share clips and stories, but for me I prefer to take a step back and process everything first.
I like to calm down, enjoy the moment, and then later — when I have some time alone — I’ll go back and watch the match again. That’s when I really analyse it and think about how I can improve. Usually the next day I’ll start posting about the show, but by then I’ve already reflected on what I can do better for the next match.
SW: You run your own training school as part of SPW, what is your philosophy?
AT: I’m really proud of the Singaporean wrestlers coming through the system. They work incredibly hard, and the fans are starting to connect with them as well.
My standards are quite strict when it comes to training. I’m very focused on repetition and getting the basics right. If something isn’t good enough, I’ll say it directly — I’m not going to sugar-coat it. Sometimes that means doing a move ten or twenty times until it’s sharp and clean. At the end of the day, they’re representing SPW and they’re representing themselves, so it has to be done properly.
At the same time, I try to structure the training in a way that people can build into it. If you throw someone straight into a full Japanese-style training system, most people won’t come back because it’s extremely intense and takes years to master. So we start with a simpler syllabus, build the fundamentals, and then gradually increase the level as they improve.
“in wrestling, having something memorable is what makes people pay attention.”
SW: How did your WWE tryout training change your perspective?
AT: It definitely opened my eyes to how different the psychology is in WWE compared to the independent scene or Japanese-style wrestling.
Coach Matt Bloom gave me some feedback after the tryout. He told me he could see that I could definitely work in the ring, but the psychology I was showing wasn’t exactly what they were looking for. Their approach to storytelling and match structure is quite different from what I was used to.
That experience helped me understand that wrestling can be interpreted in many different ways depending on the company and the style they want. It made me more aware of how important it is to adapt your mindset and psychology to the environment you’re working in.
SW: How did the WWE tryout come about?
AT: The opportunity came when WWE scouts were visiting the region to look at talent. One of the scouts, Canyon Ceman, came down to Singapore and watched a show we were running at Changi. It was the night before Chinese New Year.
I had a match there that I’m still really proud of — one of my best, honestly. It was against Trexxus (Dante Chen). That was the match they saw, and I think it really helped put me on their radar.
At the time, WWE was exploring the idea of running a Southeast Asia tournament. They were scouting talent across the region — places like Dubai, Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore — to see what was out there. Eventually that tournament didn’t end up happening, and instead they moved forward with the women’s tournament that became the Mae Young Classic.
But that whole scouting process was how the tryout opportunity came about for me.
SW: So many wrestlers have come to Singapore to perform for SPW. Who do you think has been the most impactful?
AT: Tajiri had a huge impact on me personally. He gave me a lot of advice about pro wrestling, and everything he said really made sense because of the experience he’s had. He came up through the indies, made his name in ECW, and then adapted his style again when he went to WWE. Even now his style keeps evolving, but the moment you see him you still know it’s Tajiri. That’s something I learned a lot from.
We also learned a lot from the British wrestlers who came through, like Pete Dunne, Trent Seven and Zack Sabre Jr. They’ve been doing this for a long time and were very open about sharing their knowledge and experience with us. Having people like that come through the locker room has been really valuable for everyone in SPW.
SW: During your career, you’ve had some interesting opponents. One that stood out to me as an original ROH fan was when you tagged with Quiet Storm in Japan?
AT: That was the match against Hartley and Action Jackson, right? Yeah, that was a crazy one. I remember getting a huge reaction when I lifted Hartley — he’s definitely over 100 kilos.
Quiet Storm was great to work with. At that time he was really making a name for himself in Japan, so it was a cool experience being part of that match with him. I remember the show had a lot of wrestlers from Mexico as well, so I focused more on power moves. You’re not going to outdo luchadores with hurricanranas, right?
Wrestling has also changed a lot with social media. Things move really fast now. Casual fans mostly watch short clips on TikTok or Reels, while the full matches are usually for the hardcore fans. Because of that, it’s important to have a good team handling social media and editing those clips. You need something that grabs people’s attention in the first few seconds and makes them go, “Wow.”
SW: What plans do The Statement and SPW have for 2026 and beyond?
AT: Bigger venue, just trying to make SPW more mainstream in any ways possible. wait and see is all I can say right now.
The goal is to keep growing SPW and take it to bigger venues. I want to make the brand more mainstream in Singapore and keep expanding the audience. There are some plans in the works, but for now it’s a bit of a “wait and see.”
At the same time, I think it’s important for the whole Southeast Asian wrestling scene to stay united. The region is still small, but there’s so much talent across promotions like Puso, SETUP, TOP Dojo and VPW. Ten years ago there wasn’t really a Southeast Asian wrestling scene, but now it’s starting to come together.
If we keep building it together, the ultimate goal is to see a Southeast Asian wrestler succeed in a major global promotion. For SPW specifically, my aim is to make it a truly established promotion — not just in Singapore but recognized around the world.
“Casual fans mostly watch short clips, while the full matches are usually for the hardcore fans. it’s important to have a good team handling social media.”
Follow The Statement on Instagram and SPW on all socials.
SPW CLUB CARNAGE
Singapore Pro Wrestling returned to Club Lunar on January 31st with Club Carnage, packing out the venue and delivering a loud, fast-moving show that leaned fully into the close-quarters club environment.
From the moment the show opened things felt different. Presentation was more akin to a modern MMA show with the bright lights of the club against the darkness giving things an edgy feel. The ring announcer added some extra spice to the announcements, ring girls held up signage and even opening fight participants Dr Gore and Aiden Rex got in on the club vibe with updated music for the doctor and Aiden Rex giving us a jazzy strut. Dr Gore scored an upset pinfall victory over Aiden Rex in a technically sound encounter. Rex entered with momentum, but Dr Gore capitalized on his opportunity and walked away with a statement win that immediately set the tone for the evening.
MYPW’s Miles Karu made “Boombox” Terrance tap, with both living up to the unique stipulation of a Get F*ckfaced Match.
Tag team action followed, with The Midnight Bastards picking up a win over Mighty Jackson, Mighty Mighty and MJ Riz. In a division that continues to build depth, this result keeps The Midnight Bastards firmly in the conversation moving forward.
Championship stakes came into play next as CK successfully retained the Singapore Championship in a three-way match against The Wonderboy and Emman. With multiple challengers involved, the champion navigated the unpredictable nature of the bout and left Club Lunar still holding the title.
In women’s tag action, Alexis Lee and Mad Kat Karina defeated Selina and Poppy, with Alexis securing the pinfall on Poppy to close the match. The win further establishes the Lee and Karina pairing as one to watch within SPW’s growing women’s division.
The main event lived up to the Club Carnage name. With brawling spreading across the venue and weapons including trays and ladders coming into play, the match descended into full venue-wide chaos. When it finally came to an end, Da Butcherman stood tall after pinning Bryson Blade to claim the victory after a suplex through plastic packing boxes that defined the word carnage.
Club Carnage is FREE to watch on YouTube
VPW SPRING BASH
On a show with New Japan Pro Wrestling’s Chairman in attendance, it wasn’t the welcome VIP guest that would change the landscape of Southeast Asian wrestling but an unwelcome and unexpected one that would cause chaos on Vietnam Pro Wrestling’s first major show of 2026.
VIetnam Pro Wrestling Spring Bash on March 14th was a show of star making matches and shocking moments. After the traditional X-Pat welcome, the show quickly got underway as Xavier Patricks introduced the opening contest. This was the first of three matches pitting “old school” against “new school”, as Meteor Kid faced An D in what the youngster had described as his dream match.
The storyline here is largely grounded in reality. An D is one of the most respected veterans in the VPW locker room, making him a natural benchmark opponent for the newer generation.
The match played to that contrast. An D focused on a measured, grounded approach while Meteor Kid relied on speed and athleticism. As the contest progressed, An D began landing increasingly fierce kicks and strikes that echoed across the Dong Nai River and sent Meteor Kid reeling.
The finish came after An D missed Treasure Impact. A rapid exchange of roll-ups followed before Meteor Kid used his powerful legs to trap the veteran on the mat and secure the three count. After the bell, An D showed respect to his opponent with a handshake.
This was one of the standout matches of the night and an excellent showcase for both wrestlers. After spending much of his rookie year working tag matches and rumbles, Meteor Kid looked far more confident here and demonstrated clear potential as a future singles star.
An D also appeared to be in his best form since returning last year. With a stronger physique and sharper offence, it feels likely that he will soon be moving back up the card.
The battle of the veteran and rookie masked men took place next, and to nobody’s surprise, it took to the skies in rapid fashion with bodies flying all over the place.
After Ronnie El Rapido launched himself into a suicide dive, it briefly appeared that Xiumin Long had injured his shoulder. However, the veteran revealed it to be a ruse that allowed him to regain control of the match.
Ronnie later fired up in dramatic fashion, partially removing the front of his mask to reveal snarling determination as he pressed the attack. Despite the surge, Xiumin ultimately secured victory with a decisive package piledriver.
The match maintained the strong momentum established by the opener. Both wrestlers came out looking credible, and Ronnie continues to grow into his role within the VPW roster. The encounter also felt like it left room for a well-received rematch in the future.
Fan reactions reached a peak ahead of this tag team encounter, which gave Miles Karu an opportunity to avenge his Juicy Boyz loss to The Classic Night last June. Billy and Bobby received their usual standing ovation upon entering the arena.
The challengers seized control early by dragging the action into a ringside brawl. Da Butcherman soon made a statement by cutting Billy off with an impressive springboard spear.
Billy then shifted into the familiar babyface-in-peril role that he performs so effectively, rallying the crowd until Bobby finally received the hot tag to a huge reaction. With the momentum now balanced, the match escalated quickly. Even after Karu launched a suicide dive to the outside, it was one of Bobby’s signature bodyslams that ultimately secured the victory.
Before the winners could celebrate, an unknown figure rushed into the ring and attacked. The attacker was soon revealed as IWA Japan SETUP World and MYPW SEA Champion Shivam, making his VPW debut.
Shivam grabbed the microphone and launched into a harsh critique of Vietnam Pro Wrestling, claiming that while other international wrestlers had repeatedly been invited to compete, he had been continually overlooked by the promotion.
Moments later Juicy Meat joined him at ringside, forming an alliance with the newcomer. The trio issued a challenge for Saigon Slam: Shivam, Miles Karu and Da Butcherman against The Classic Night and a partner of their choosing.
The match itself was another excellent outing from these four wrestlers, who have developed strong chemistry together over the past year. Karu and Butcherman’s new gear also gave both men a noticeably upgraded presentation.
Shivam’s arrival immediately expands the possibilities for VPW’s international collaborations and could open the door for further talent exchanges with Thailand’s SETUP promotion.
After the interval, the show resumed with the “Choose Your Fate” five-way match featuring Khoa Truong, Slugshot Henry, Dokuga, Kira and Damien Wolfe. Far from a simple filler bout, the match quickly erupted into a chaotic brawl that pulled the audience straight back into the action.
The finish provided one of the most creative moments of the evening. As Dokuga prepared to use his mist attack, Khoa anticipated it and delivered a theatrical kiss reminiscent of Jake De Leon’s famous mist-stealing spot, briefly capturing the mist himself.
“Shivam grabbed the microphone and launched into a harsh critique of Vietnam Pro Wrestling”
Before he could capitalize, however, Kira struck him, causing Khoa to accidentally spit the mist into the eyes of his partner Henry.
In the confusion that followed, Khoa delivered a quick Spirit Breaker to Dokuga and secured the pinfall, earning the right to choose a future stipulation.
Henry left the match wiping mist from his eyes while staring down his tag partner, adding further tension to their ongoing storyline.
The final “proving ground” match of the night saw rapper KPY face movie star Jimmy AG.
Compared to the earlier bouts, this contest carried more of a heavyweight feel, providing a welcome shift in pacing before the main event. The wrestlers allowed the action to build gradually, letting the audience reactions grow as the match progressed. The contest ended when KPY connected with the Heatspitta to secure the victory.
Even before the main event tag team championship match began, the entrances created a sense of occasion. Ares received particular attention with a new entrance package that began live from the dressing room and showcased an updated robe.
Once underway, the match quickly spilled into a chaotic ringside brawl. Each competitor played their role well. Ares acted as the powerhouse, throwing around both Rocky Huynh and The British Horror, while Hy Draco brought his trademark speed and aerial offence to every corner of the ring.
Weapons eventually became involved, including metal trays. Ares managed to deliver a top-rope Stormbreaker to The British Horror, but a miscommunication between Ares and Hy Draco left the challengers exposed. The Rocky Horror Show capitalized, delivering The Devil’s Drop to retain the championships.
After the bell, the champions attempted another attack, but the babyfaces fought them off and stood tall to close the show.
The match delivered a memorable main event that will likely receive a “Must Watch” rating once the full video is released.
It also marked Ares’ first loss to a foreign opponent in The British Horror, albeit with an asterisk given Horror’s status as a full-time VPW roster member.
The long-promised triple threat tag title match still appears to be on the horizon, though it may be held for a larger upcoming event.
Princess Death and Phuong Nam both played important roles at ringside. Their work as managers continues to enhance the presentation of VPW’s top programs.
Before the night was over, New Japan Pro Wrestling’s chairman Naoki Sugabayashi was introduced to the fans as he was in attendance as a guest watching the show.
Overall, a very, very strong first major show for VPW, who went all out to impress their distinguished guest and set the tone for the rest of 2026. It’s going to be a good year.
The next Saigon Slam is scheduled for May 9th but will be in a new, bigger location. Not a permanent move, the promotion looks to expand into different areas of the city and experiment with new aesthetics, including running a show outside.
The question though is what happens next with Shivam, SETUP and Real Global Threat. It was quite clear that Thailand’s top star wants to make a clear statement in VPW and will be bringing one or more allies along. These could be Juicy Meat, or we might be surprised by other friends or foes that join the cause.
At the same time, before May 9th, Shivam needs to get through MYPW New Breed 4 where he will be in the same room as his victim Billy, Xavier Patricks and “The Unstoppable Force” Ares. They may need to keep it respectful in a third-party’s venue, but could VPW then make an impact at SETUP’s May event Absolute Mayhem?
Meanwhile, Ares needs to prepare for Carlo Cannon before turning attention to The Rocky Horror Show who are now joint contenders for the title, all while frenemy Hy Draco is in the background.
Time will tell, but stay tuned, you won’t want to miss a minute!
“Spring Bash marks Ares’ first loss to a foreign opponent in The British Horror.”
A WORD WITH SHIVAM
SW: Can you explain your actions at Spring Bash?
SH: Vietnam wasn’t a “trip.” It was a message.
While everyone else was playing wrestler at Spring Bash, I walked in and reminded the entire country what a Real Global Threat looks like. You call it “interjecting”. I call it taking what should’ve been mine from the beginning.
SW: Why do you think Vietnam Pro Wrestling has overlooked you?
SH: Let’s not pretend this is about “oversight.” When you’re on my level, you don’t get overlooked; you get avoided. Bringing in Shivam means everything changes overnight. And that was exactly what happened at Spring Bash!
SW: Why attack The Classic Night?
SH: They had their big moment, right? The crowd cheering them on, their hands in the air, feeling like they figured it all out. That’s exactly when I take it away.
I didn’t just attack Billy and Bobby. I shattered the illusion that VPW creates about what a top wrestler looks like.
Most importantly, I’m all about making a memorable moment, and you tell me other things that are impactful besides SHIVAM showing up!?
It was always about RGT. What you saw in Vietnam… that wasn’t just an attack. That was us expanding the THREAT to Southeast Asia and soon, beyond.
SW: We fully expect to see you and your new allies, Juicy Meat, at the next VPW event. Will you be bringing any more backup?
SH : It’s not about who I bring, it’s about how many people are already with me that you don’t even know about yet. And trust me, there are more than you think. How can you be so sure that your friends, or even the people you trust most, aren’t already with us?
SW: Are you prepared for what might come your way on May 2nd if Vietnam Pro Wrestling retaliates at SETUP’s Absolute Mayhem?
SH: I’m begging someone to do something about it.
Anyone who is stupid enough to step up isn’t just fighting Shivam—they’re stepping into a war with The Real Global Threat. And we just don’t lose.
Read the full character
interview at
APAC WRESTLE LEGION 2
APAC Wrestling presented WrestleLegion 2 on Valentine’s Day from their home venue of ESI Grand Hall. A stacked card delivered a hotly received night of action. The show saw several feuds come to a head, new storylines begin to develop, and one shocking challenge.
To kick things off Hendo Ramli finally scored the long needed pinfall victory over The Eurasian Dragon to end their multi-year rivalry in a heated no holds barred match.
Up next the already very popular newcomer Maya Hartsteel went to a double countout with veteran Crystal. As a side note, Crystal’s heel act is so strong these days that she really should consider a full shift to the dark side in her home country after this performance.
In quite the shocker, Eddie Emil tapped out Raga Ngadai after the referee sent Tobias Frost to the back. This seemed like too early a point to have Ngadai take a defeat so it will be interesting to find out what happens next.
Nor “Phoenix” Diana defeated Tarlee from Australia next. This was supposed to be an APAC Women’s Championship match but Mercedes Mone took the belt in November much to Tarlee’s annoyance, as she wouldn’t get a shot.
Konrad Kai returned and won the Pinfall Rumble which allowed a number of trainees some ring time.
Then Double K managed to roll up Shaukat out of nowhere due to a sudden video message from The Brian Kendrick. The two will fight on April 4th at Edge of Glory.
In the semi-main TMDK (Damien Slater and Marcus Pitt) defeated Serigala and NYC with more dirty heel tactics, and in the main event Dreamkiller Azroy retained the APAC Championship against “Alpha” Alfa Nazri. Nazri received a standing ovation after the match.
DEXCON FAST BREAK
Two major Pinoy wrestling shows took place in the first quarter of this year at the Brawlpit Bulusan, as DEXCON expanded their schedule heading into their third year.
Fast Break introduced a February date to the calendar, preceding their usual WrestleStorm starting point by a month. The show followed a now-familiar formula: featuring top local talent, some of the region’s best, and one visiting male and female competitor from further afield. This time, they brought in former WWE Cruiserweight and Tag Team Champion THE Brian Kendrick, as well as former EVOLVE wrestler Lady Leigh, who has Filipino roots.
The show kicked off with a minor upset, as the previously down-on-his-luck Ravena finally secured a win over Vietnam Pro Wrestling’s The British Horror.
Shivam then added another successful defence to his IWA Japan SETUP World Championship reign, defeating Isaiah Valencia, Joey Rosas, and Robin Sane in a four-way match. During the bout, Shivam acknowledged Valencia’s ties to RGT teammate Jake De Leon—though, as always in the RGT philosophy, alliances are secondary when it comes to delivering punishment for the greater good.
JOMAR followed with a win over the returning Jack Alexander, who looked noticeably more physically imposing in an impressive performance. It was later announced that Yoshitatsu will return at WrestleStorm 3 to face JOMAR, one year after attacking him following their tag match.
In her comeback match, Super P fought Chelsea Marie to a double pin in what was a strong contest. As a result, both will now challenge Alexis Lee for the CWE Vixen’s Championship at WrestleStorm 3.
In the first of two main events, Lady Leigh defeated Crystal in the latter’s ten-year anniversary match.
While the result may be surprising, it opens the door for Crystal to potentially bring her established
heel character from Malaysia to this audience—something that would likely be well received.
In the main event, Jake De Leon retained the DEXCON World Championship against THE Brian Kendrick in an exciting encounter.
Following the match, De Leon was informed that his next challenger would be Carlo Cannon. However, that match will no longer take place at WrestleStorm, with an alternative—reportedly an exciting replacement—now scheduled.
DEXCON WRESTLESTORM 3
DEXCON presented WrestleStorm 3 on March 15th from the Brawlpit Bulusan in Quezon City. The show, which came one month after Fast Break, ended up serving more as a key story development point rather than a major standalone event like its two predecessors.
The show kicked off with another Match Maker Miguel segment, where he riled up the crowd alongside his cronies. The celebrations were interrupted by Ravena, leading to the surprise return of perhaps-forgotten Pinoy wrestler Carlos Zamora. Zamora was defeated in short order by The Influencer.
Next, Jack N’ Cheese defended their SPW Tag Team Championships against The Gemini Kings, HY/OP, and the thrown-together tandem of Willy Wiggum and Ken Cifer. The finish saw a miscommunication between Kings’ Main Maxx and R O M E O, allowing CBK to score the pinfall. The duo then argued following the match.
China’s Junjie, who was brought in as part of the KWK Brand contingent, defeated Robin Sane in a fast-paced, athletic contest that garnered chants of “Fight Forever”.
Match of the night came next as Super P defeated outgoing champion Alexis Lee and Chelsea Marie in a triple threat contest to become the CWE Vixens Champion. It was a surprising, dramatic, and satisfying end to Lee’s almost 3000-day reign as champion.
Hakai Mateo then attempted to make his DEXCON debut, but Match Maker Miguel cancelled his match before it could begin.
This was followed by Shinya Aoki defeating Fabio Makisig in a fierce contest during Aoki’s return to the ring.
The penultimate match saw Yoshitatsu confront JOMAR after a full year had passed since he was misted by the big man. Unfortunately for the Japanese icon, he came up short and was then assaulted by the rest of the KWK Brand, including Shawn Ng. The group will now apparently operate as a faction called the Kudzu Wrecking Krew.
In the main event, Jake De Leon successfully defended the DEXCON World Championship against Kuroshio TOKYO Japan, who replaced Carlo Cannon. By all accounts, Kuroshio had one of the longest entrances in DEXCON history.
Following the main event, Ravena came to the ring to demand a title shot against Jake De Leon. However, he was informed that both men would instead face Minoru Suzuki in April, with the championship on the line.
As a promotion, there’s no doubt DEXCON puts on a crowd pleasing show for the Pinoy wrestling fanbase. The talent of the Pinoy wrestlers is undoubtedly world class and they may just have one of the hardest working rosters as well.
The addition of the CWE Vixen’s title to give the female roster something to fight for of their own is a monumentally great decision as well.
However, we do question the number of wins imports get over the main roster. This could be part of a bigger plan, but if DEXCON does wish to expand beyond The Brawlpit to a larger venue, more of the roster does need to look like winners even in a “sport” like pro wrestling. Local heroes are important and certainly do sell tickets.
This could of course be part of a longer story arc, the rising amount of shows this year is promising so let’s see where things go.
BEYOND THE SEA: WRESTLING IN CHINA
This year, SEA Wrestling is going to go beyond our borders and take a look at some of the other pro-wrestling scenes that many Southeast Asian wrestlers frequently travel to. The first on the books is a regular destination for many wrestlers from Singapore — Mainland China.
The Origins
It’s probably no surprise that, like a lot of mainland Asia, China had no longstanding history of professional wrestling. The earliest known shows in modern times were held by the Asian touring pioneers New Japan Pro Wrestling, who ran a pair of shows in Harbin, Heilongjiang, China as part of a Chinese-Japanese Friendship convention. These confirmed exhibition events saw Antonio Inoki main event, alongside appearances by big names like Riki Choshu, Jushin Thunder Liger and Kensuke Sasaki. Other international promotions would run shows occasionally including Dragon Gate (2008) and WWE (2010), offering rare glimpses of professional wrestling to mainland audiences.
In 2004, a wrestler known as The Slam would become China’s first recognised professional wrestler, founding China Wrestling Entertainment (CWE). That date however is somewhat debated, as the first major CWE show would not take place until 2012 in Dongguan, where The Slam defeated Chuan Jie Han in the main event. Through the years this initial attempt would lay the groundwork for the modern Chinese wrestling scene, eventually leading to the formation of two major promotions, most notably Middle Kingdom Wrestling. Founder Adrian Gomez would launch MKW in 2015, emerging from the groundwork and supported by CWE. While early activity took place in southern China, the promotion would become primarily based in Shanghai, running grassroots events using basic equipment, trainees and small venues while slowly educating audiences on professional wrestling itself. During the Covid period MKW would also run closed-door shows, including events again held in Harbin.
The other prominent promotion to emerge during the 2010s was Oriental Wrestling Entertainment.
OWE was a far higher-budget affair. Set up by Chinese film director Fu Huayang and reportedly backed by significant investment with alleged government support, the promotion came out swinging with fast Dragon Gate-influenced action, high production values and a dedicated training centre designed to rival the WWE Performance Center. Despite early promise and international attention, the promotion would ultimately become one of the major casualties of the Covid era, though not before helping develop several talents who remain active on the Chinese scene today.
The Scene Today
Despite a difficult Covid period, the scene is beginning to take shape once again across parts of China. Middle Kingdom Wrestling’s slow and steady approach to building a wrestling scene from scratch has ultimately paid off, and they have become the most prominent promotion in mainland China today. After spending many years focusing on a single homebase, MKW are now branching out into emerging world-class cities including Chongqing and Chengdu, with the All Star Tour commencing in March.
Not only developing a scene inside China, MKW have also played a role in Southeast Asia’s growth by providing opportunities for regional wrestlers. Singapore’s Alexis Lee has become one of their regular performers, while back in the pre-Covid days MKW ran a joint show with Saigon Pro Wrestling Club (VPW) that saw Zombie Dragon, Bitman and others take to the mats in a rare early collaboration between the Chinese and Vietnamese scenes.
Apart from MKW, multiple promotions have begun operating around mainland China, creating the foundations of a small but growing wrestling ecosystem. King of Pro Wrestling (KOPW), active since 2018 and operating around the Guangzhou area, presents shows influenced by modern American independent wrestling while also experimenting with uniquely local concepts. Among these was last year’s Bruce Lee Memorial show, held within the martial artist’s namesake park and drawing a reported crowd of over 5,000 attendees. Their Dim Sum Wrestling events remain among the most culturally distinctive presentations anywhere in Asia, staged inside functioning Chinese banquet restaurants packed with diners while simultaneously livestreamed to thousands across the country.
Other promotions have emerged more recently, including Global Wrestling Frontier, also based in Guangzhou. Running events from Cages Sports Bar and Restaurant, the promotion attracts a strong expatriate fanbase and offers a more sports-entertainment driven, story-focused presentation aimed at casual audiences and families seeking accessible live entertainment.
The Chinese Wrestling Association meanwhile has carved out a niche within the nightlife scene, hosting wrestling events inside bars and clubs throughout Guangzhou and attracting large numbers of locally based foreign fans alongside curious domestic audiences.
CWE itself has evolved into producing closed-door livestream productions distributed through Chinese streaming apps. Very unlike a traditional live wrestling event, these shows feature unusual storylines and match structures designed to maximise online engagement, combining traditional professional wrestling with presentation elements resembling a gangster movie.
One thread that appears to tie much of Chinese professional wrestling together is the modern cultural expectation that presentation matters. Production values are often striking, with impressive venues, large LED screens, pristine rings and strong lighting and audiovisual setups helping even smaller promotions present visually polished events.
The Wrestlers
With the scene continuing to develop, it is impossible to name every active Chinese wrestler. However, several prominent names stand out aside from those already mentioned. Among them is cocky young CWA Asia Title holder He Yinsheng. There is also Wang Tao, the CWA champion, who, as a boy, was inspired after watching the film The Wrestler, and has since travelled extensively across the country promoting his own professional wrestling events. Kitty Zhang, meanwhile, has begun transitioning from managerial roles into in-ring competition and is increasingly gaining attention as a performer in her own right.
Chinese wrestlers are supported by a sizeable group of locally based foreign talent. One of the most prominent is Big Sam from the United Kingdom, representing a traditional British heavyweight style, while brash American Nate Grimm has been a regular presence in KOPW main events for several years. Thai wrestler Fiony has also become a regular competitor within CWA, recently facing Alexis Lee, further strengthening links between China and Southeast Asia. Hong Kong Wrestling Federation regulars also deserve recognition, particularly Bitman and Ho Ho Lun, whose experience and guidance played a key role in helping the mainland scene establish itself during its early years.
The Chinese wrestling scene is not unlike our homebase of Southeast Asia. It is young, still finding its footing and working towards a shared goal where wrestlers may one day make a sustainable living from performing. Like Southeast Asia, professional wrestling remains a relatively new and somewhat imported culture that requires time to grow organically. China’s advantage lies in its sheer scale and variety of performance opportunities, ranging from Bruce Lee celebrations to dim sum restaurants to the LED-filled, high-energy nightclubs many of us have wandered into at least once. With over a billion potential fans available, there are undoubtedly many more still waiting to discover professional wrestling.
While careful research is always undertaken in these articles, the nature of language barriers means some information may be inaccurate. SEA Wrestling has no intention to offend or mislead.
If any information is incorrect, please email
contact @ seawrestling.net for corrections.
The Saigon Six
The six wrestlers whose rivalries, alliances and battles are defining VPW today.
In professional wrestling, a larger than life superstar can shift some merchandise, a hot feud can sell tickets, but when things click a group of six wrestlers can define an entire wrestling promotion for years to come.
Just like Paul Heyman once did with Smackdown in 2002, VPW has developed a similar formula that has fans totally engaged in the core product thanks to six home grown stars.
Throughout 2024 and 2025 a number of key events all happened in a short series of shows. Hy Draco and The British Horror cemented themselves as main event talent. Draco at the taile end of 2024 by winning the Rumble and VPW Championship in short order while the latter (British Horror) took the championship off the former at last year’s Saigon Slam.
On that fabled night, Rocky Huynh also turned heel (on Draco) to become “The Founder”, part of The Rocky Horror Show with former enemy, now ally British Horror. A month later, following huge fan support, Ares would interject himself back into the title opportunity in one of the loudest, most raucous and exciting matches in company history that blew the roof off VAIB Studios in a sports entertainment style brawl.
At the same time, Billy and Bobby, known as The Classic Night, were seeing their popularity skyrocket following an outstanding match at the Rumble 2024 against then champions VTX. The suspenseful, heat filled encounter had fans on their feet and despite the loss, the duo had been solidified as more than just fun loving big boys. They were legitimate wrestlers who could tell a gripping story.
A six month storyline featuring Phuong Nam trying to manage and bully the pair would build support even further, while two world-class bouts with The Natural Classics and Juicy Boys in April and May last year would build them into top contenders for the tag belts. As VPW took its summer break they left fans on the edge of their seats clamoring for more from all six individuals.
At the Rumble in September the sextuplet would be reduced back to a quartet as it was revealed British Horror was on an excursion and Hy Draco had suffered a broken leg. Despite the roster gaps, The Rumble was one of the greatest shows put on in VPW’s history. Ares made his first defence against fully fledged heel Jake De Leon in a match that got the best out of the champion, while Rocky’s theft of the Sure Shot contract by sneaking in at the last minute propelled his heel character even further by leaving fans spitting with rage.
It was on the undercard though that the most noise was made when The Classic Night took the VPW Tag Team Championship from Vortex Rebellion in another heat filled matchup that saw tears of joy being shed at ringside when the final bell rang.
The six would spend some time apart at Brawl Hallow’s Eve as Billy and Bobby retained against The Classic Night, The Rocky Horror Show proved their worth as a team against Khoa and Henry and Ares defeated Da Butcherman in an epic encounter.
It was at Vietnam’s ten year anniversary however that the pieces came together. In the second half of the show, The Classic Night would lose their titles to The Rocky Horror Show in a match that stole the show before Ares brought fans' emotions back up defeating The Statement.
Yet things didn’t end there as The Rocky Horror Show attacked post match attempting to steal the VPW Championship from the big man.
It was the unlikeliest of assistance that would save the day. A fully healed Hy Draco made the save to a thunderous ovation from the fans. The segment ended with a fierce face off between Draco and Ares. Despite the assistance, it was not water under the bridge.
At the time of writing, we head very quickly towards Spring Bash where all six are more intertwined than ever. Hy Draco and Ares challenge for the tag straps. Should they win, Hy Draco gets a 1 on 1 shot against Ares. Should they lose, The Rocky Horror Show will receive a triple threat title shot. Smartly, this leaves fans with two mouth watering outcomes.
It’s not just the storytelling though that’s made this group something special. It’s the high quality of in ring action. Not every match is a five star classic and that's exactly how it should be. Variety is the spice of life and that’s extra meaningful in wrestling. The Classic Night can draw fans in with a match where they’re in full peril such as Vietnamania where the entire room tensed up, but they also excel at giving fans a fun filled match pre-main event such as they have with Venomshank on many occasions. Both Ares and Draco are the same, knowing how to match the energy of the match, their position and get the best out of their opponent. In his last three major matches of 2025, Ares put in a series of standout performances.
Then on the undercard, The Classic Night are in a contenders match against the rather hated international duo of Juicy Meat leaving the potential for a rematch or even a clash between Billy, Bobby, Ares and Hy Draco.
All six are quite likely intertwined for the rest of the calendar year, and this is one of
situations where that fact is nothing but an all out positive. All six have developed the key ingredients for success: solid wrestling basics, distinct looks, personalities and an understanding of who they are and what they should be doing. Everything makes sense with them, and the fans in Vietnam believe in these characters. Having the founder of wrestling in Vietnam turn his back and align with the biggest villain has been a catalytic change that mixes so well with the fight from underneath, classic babyface portrayal of Billy and Bobby, while Ares gives fans that raw, smashmouth power they crave for, and Hy Draco dazzles with his agile moveset.
Tickets for Spring Bash have already sold well around matches built on the local talent and visiting regulars Juicy Meat, which is a clear indicator that this grouping is at peak popularity. Some of the matches we could be treated to might be:
Ares Vs Hy Draco 4, Ares Vs Rocky Horror, The Classic Night Vs Ares & Hy Draco and/or The Rocky Horror Show, Rocky Vs Hy Draco 3, Ares Vs The British Horror 2, or even Ares, Draco and The Classic Night Vs The Rocky Horror Show and Juicy Meat.
Of course a group of six doesn’t last forever and new wrestlers need to be added to the mix but these matches give others time to be ready. Promising new debutants like Ronnie El Rapido & Meteor Kid need time to develop ring presence and a following. Then there’s a lot of promise for current mid-card talent like KPY who has already shown he’s ready to move further up the card while the potential for Slugshot Henry as a heel following his feud with Khoa might be unbounded as well. In the meantime, plenty of veterans like Jimmy AG, Xumin Long, Dokuga and Damien can be thrown into the mix should the need arise.
One thing’s for sure.
VPW fans are in for an entertaining year.
Credits
Editor
Simon worden
photo credits
In Issue 8
CONTRIBUTORS
-Aurelien Foucault - VPW
-HanzelBee -dexcon/Puso/WUW
-Shing Chan - VPW
-najywan & sgwrestlingsoC - Grapplemax
-Grapplemax, spw, setup thailand, dxcn wrestling, fpw, mypw, Ring of Rebirth.
-Sayn RH
-Andruew Tang
-Sam Burgess
-MKW, GWF, Sam Burgess, Zombie Dragon, KOPW
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Andruew tang - interview
Steve bacon - the visitors pt3
published 3rd April 2026
Press Time - March 12TH 2026
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