Westside Xtreme Wrestling – Aigle Blanc vs Joseph Fenech Jr – January 20th
For those unaware, WxW is a German promotion who in the past have housed such names as Ilja Dragunov and Imperium (then known as Ring Kampf). Currently, outside of Axel Tischer (the former Alexander Wolfe) they don’t have any major internationally recognisable names, but they do have a very talented roster who are more than capable of putting on fantastic matches. This is one such example, a weapons cage match between masked champion Aigle Blanc and brutal heel challenger Joseph Fenech Jr. Blanc is perhaps best known for having the first match on Mustafa Ali’s world tour, and is a great focal point for WxW as a brand. The story here is one of former tag partners turned bitter enemies, and the fight both in and around the cage is as violent and vengeful as you expect. Even without the knowledge of these men’s rivalry, the commentators and competitors fill you in very quickly, and what follows is 20 minutes of crisp wrestling with a fireball of bitterness undercutting the whole thing. A terrific introduction to WxW for a new viewer.
Wrestling Revolver – Jon Moxley vs Gringo Loco- January 25th
If you don’t like death match wrestling, I would advise you to run in the opposite direction from this match. Then again, the proclamation of a ‘Lucha Death Match’ involving two of the most violent individuals in the game should give you already a clear idea what you are in for. This is no wrestling clinic, but relies on blood, weaponry and the savagery of the men between the ropes. I cannot claim to be myself the biggest fan of this style, but for those who get their kicks from wrestling gore you have it in spades here. A match that was delayed numerous times because of injury trouble, the final product was a gnarly and satisfying death match that was a high point for the US Independent Scene this month.
Let me know what you think of the list and this format, and let me know your favourite hidden gems from January!
Also check out Head Of Opinions Anthony Ricciardi’s picks for January’s best matches HERE
