Pro-wrestling hits town
You’ve seen it on television in all its theatrical splendour but a Napier-born live professional wrestling promoter is bringing it to Hawke’s Bay tonight.
“When I was a kid I loved all the fights and excitement on TV so I decided to give it a go when the opportunity presented itself in Auckland,” says David Gerbault whose IPW (Impact Pro Wrestling) Centennial Brawl will begin at the Rodney Green Centennial Events Centre from 7pm with doors open at 6.30pm.
The athleticism of the wrestlers and the code’s “creative outlet” struck a chord with Gerbault after he had shifted from here to Waikato University and then on to the City of Sails in 2004 to live his dream.
The 39-year-old, who also will be on the card, is a former national champion who goes by the stage name of “Sir Mr Burns”. His “hardhitting, high flying, unpredictable” maiden event here boasts bringing the best from New Zealand tonight, including six former or current national champions.
Gerbault has opened the doors in Napier this year to his second IPW training school — the first is in Auckland.
He says the IPW schools have groomed Dakota Kai and Travis Banks who are currently wrestling for WWE in The United Staes or japan. Another exponent, Toa Henare, wrestles for New Japan Pro Wrestling.
To add spice to the night, incumbent national heavyweight champion (140kg) Jamie Tagataese, 24, who has never been beaten, is issuing an open challenge for his belt.
“The Deal” Dal Knox, of Napier, is in a co-main event in which the fans who buy tickets online can vote to decide if his match will be a submission match — that is, a “last man standing affair” or a “falls count anywhere” one.
Tickets will be available from eventfinda and at the door.
CARD
■ Jamie Tagataese issues open challenge.
■ Dal Knox v James Shaw.
■ The Young Nats (Sir Mr Burns, Nico Dandy) v Manalanche (Ben Mana, Adam Avalanche) tag team clash.
■ Alfred Valentine v Liger.
■ Candy Lee (ex-NZ women’s champ), Jake Sheehan, Taylor Adams, TKD in four-way match.
■ ”Rufguts” Roddy Gunn v Matty Short.