WWE star’s academy is the place to get to grips with life in the ring
ELEVATION Wrestling has opened an academy in Loughborough.
The company, founded by former WWE wrestler Joseph Conners, already had some training classes taking place in Leicestershire, but the new centre is a permanent base on the town’s Cumberland Trading Estate.
Speaking about the benefits of the new centre, Joseph, who was born in Leicestershire, said: “Not only does our full-size 18sq ft foot professional ring and 60sq ft of mats mean our new location allows more space to train in, we are now able to run classes more regularly.
“We are operating three nights a week with a variety of classes that focus on different aspects of professional wrestling, meaning students can increase their skills no matter whether they’re trying this for the first time or are seasoned mat veterans.”
For the past decade, Elevation has run its training classes at hired spaces in Brockington College, Enderby and at the John Skillen Martial Arts Academy, in the centre of Loughborough, as well as putting on live shows in the Leicester and Loughborough areas.
Assistant trainer, Dave Breaks added: “This dedicated facility is the first of its kind in Loughborough. Being able to operate from our own exclusive location signifies the growth that Elevation Wrestling has undergone, specifically over the last year, and the hard work that the wrestlers and associated staff members at Elevation have put in.
“We are ecstatic to be able to offer more classes, including our twice weekly Foundations sessions for absolute beginners, because this allows us to give more back to the professional wrestling scene but, more importantly for the people of Loughborough, the local community.”
Mr Conners grew up in Shepshed and Loughborough, becoming a wrestling fan when he was 13 years old. He signed his first WWE contract at the age of 29.
He said: “I’m now really excited to help pass on the knowledge I have obtained to those who are looking to forge a career in professional wrestling. Even those who wish to do it as a hobby and build their friendship circle while improving their overall fitness - that is something I would love to help each individual achieve.
“Wrestling has such a wide community and this is evident in the group we have been able to build so far. Elevation is made up of men and women from all backgrounds, aged from 16 to their mid-40s.
“To see so many of them grow as performers and grow in confidence is truly the biggest reward, and we are ecstatic that we are now in the position to take on new trainees and help more people.”
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