Pro Wrestling Guerrilla “Battle of Los Angeles” Inside Track (The unofficial betting guide)
by Paul Newberry, with contributing writer: Jason Doring
September 3rd and 4th PWG will present “The Battle of Los Angeles” featuring 16 of the top independent wrestlers in the business. This first annual 2-day tournament has all the potential to become one of the country's most prominent sporting events.
In recent years, friendly wagering on PWG events has become something of a national pastime, spawning countless "office pools" that attract expert fans and novices alike. If you are one these many PWG wagerers, you may be asking yourself "Just who should I put my hard earned money on come Saturday?"
Well you’ve come to the right place… as we present to you Battle of Los Angeles Inside Track! : The unofficial betting guide! Where we will be handicapping each competitor in the field of 16 to ensure you have all the details to make an informed betting decision. There are no systems, no rules and no guarantees in this guide, yet anybody who likes to bet on professional wrestling is sure to find material here that will challenge accepted beliefs and persuade you to think in new ways about their betting and your views on life in general.
Let’s begin:
American Dragon
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
APW King of the Indies 2001 - WINNER
Inoki Dojo Best of the American Super Juniors 2004 – WINNER
ROH Survival of the Fittest 2004 WINNER
ECWA Super 8 2001: Finalist
JCW J-Cup 02 – FINALIST
ROH Tag Title Tourney Finalist
NWA ECCW Pacific Cup Tournament FINALIST
IWA: MS Ted Petty Invitational 2004 Finalist
PWG Tango and Cash: Finalist
Best of the AMERICAN Super Juniors 2005 – SEMI FINALIST
ROH Trios Tournament 2005: Semi Finalist
New Japan Best of Super Juniors Tournament 2004 semi-finalist
PWG Record: 9-4-1 overall (5-3-1 as a single)
Major Titles Held: IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Tag title, ECWA Tag Title, APW Internet Title, MCW Tag Title, MCW Lightweight, TWA Tag Titles, NWA Canadian JHW title,
Other notable career accomplishments: World’s sexiest beard.
Background/Motivation: Almost since the very beginning of his career, American Dragon has been widely regarded as one of the best wrestlers in the world, maybe even THE best depending on who you happen to ask. But then everything seemed to fall apart for Danielson, after a string of growing setbacks, such as losing his heated PWG feud with Samoa Joe, dropping a major PWG match to James Gibson at All Star Weekend, being defeated in the BOASJ to lose his chance to return to Japan, and once again losing in his bid to take the ROH title after losing to Austin Aries.
Losing and being merely second best... wasn't good enough for Bryan Danielson. Most of us were taught as children, it's not wether you win or lose, it's how you play the game" But Danielson's internal overbearing parent was telling him "2nd best isn't good enough, you're supposed to be the best" Much like Olympic parents tell their children: "You didn't win the silver... you lost the gold!" (and you don't want to know what they do to BRONZE medal winners)
Danielson began to doubt himself and his future as a Professional wrestler, was he truly as good as everyone lead him to believe? Was the pressure of being the best more than he could handle? Danielson had to do some soul searching. He decided to take a self imposed "working" exile from the sport. During which he spent his days in England re-evalutating his career, all while continuing to expand his horizions as a performer. Left many to wonder what was next for Bryan Danielson? Would the prodigal son give up the business he so loved to pursue other options?
Thankfully, for fans everywhere... the answer to that question is no! As Finally on September 3rd, Bryan Danielson will be making his first US Wrestling appearance since April, and the first stop on American Dragon's comeback tour? PWG's Battle of Los Angeles! All the months of training, blood, sweat and tears have all led up to this. His chance to once again show the world, that he IS everything they say he is. He at last has the opportunity he's waited for since April to prove himself. Danielson will be coming into this hungrier than he's ever been (which is a scary thought to say to the last) and dying to show the world, that he can live up to to the lofty expectations they have set for him.
Opening Round match: Ricky Reyes, an opponent American Dragon has had trouble with before in PWG. Dating back to "Tango and Cash" when Double Dragons eliminated the Havana Pitbulls in the 2nd round, and who could forget "the Musical" where Reyes jumped Dragon after his match with Samoa Joe. This issue was never properly layed to rest, and you have to believe Dragon will be coming into this one revenge oriented, which could throw Dragon off his game and play into the favor of Reyes. A 1st round match to look out for.... American Dragon has produce geniune classics with similar wrestlers such as Samoa Joe and Rocky Romero.
Odds of winning: 12-1, History in past tournaments is on his side, as to my knowledge he was has never been apart of a US Tournament where he did not advance to least the semi-finals. However American Dragon always been known to choke in the big PWG matches. He has the ability, he has the endurance, he knows every trick in the book... but will he be able to “seal the deal” when it counts? Also keep in mind, the last time Danielson came back from an extended tour of the UK, he returned almost an entirely different wrestler. One can only wonder that new tricks he'll be returning with this time around. You never know what to expect from American Dragon, and that's what makes him so dangerous.
AJ Styles
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
IWA: MS Ted Petty Invitational 2004: WINNER
ROH Pure Title Tournament: WINNER
NWA TNA Tag Title Tournament 02: WINNER
TNA Super X 2005: Finalist
ECWA Super 8 2002: Finalist
IWA: MS TPI 03: Semi Finalist
JCW J-Cup 2002: Semi Finalist
WCW Cruiserweight Tag-Team Title Tournament
PWG Record 6-3-2 overall
Major Titles Held: PWG Title, NWA World Title, NWA-TNA X-Division title, TNA Tag Team Title, ROH Pure Title, ROH Tag Title, IWA:MS Title.
Other notable career accomplishment: Only NWA-TNA Triple Crown holder
Background/Motivation: AJ Styles should really need no introduction to anyone who may possibly ever be reading this, as he is arguably the biggest and most successful name on the independent scene today. From TNA to Japan to ROH to PWG to some promotion you've probably never heard of... chances are AJ Styles has been there, and he has won there.
This will be AJ's first appearance in PWG since losing the title to Kevin Steen at "Zombies Shouldn't Run" and for the first time in months, AJ is once again the hunter instead of the hunted. AJ Styles will be looking for the chance to reclaim his PWG title, but in order to get back in position in for a championship rematch... AJ Styles will have to win the Battle of Los Angeles, best 15 top wrestlers to do. AJ Styles is no stranger to winning major tournaments, as just last year he won what many have called the greatest tournament in Indy History, IWA:MS TPI 04.
September 3rd, "The Phenomenal One" is back, and this time... it's personal! (actually, it really isn't.... that just sounds cool)
Opening Round match: Jack Evans, a much anticipated dream match for many fans around the world. But also probably the match where it seems least likely of an upset. Jack Evans has yet to score a single PWG victory, let alone show he can beat someone on the level of AJ Styles. But those looking for a spectacle however, will find it here. AJ Styles has always worked phenomenally well (pun!) with high flyers such as Jack Evans. His series with Matt Sydal comes to mind.
Odds of winning: 2-1 AJ has to be considered a favorite wherever he goes. Just can't deny his track record, especially in PWG, where he is nothing short of mythical being, he's defeated among others, 2 Time PWG Champion Frankie Kazarian, Super Dragon, James Gibson, as well as being the only man EVER to pin Samoa Joe in PWG. From alot of perspectives AJ Styles has to be considered the odds on favorite to win the entire tournament.
Chris Bosh
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
RevPro Fight for the revolution 2: WINNER
RevPro Revolution J 2004 – Semi Finalist (Does anyone remember Joey Harder?)
CZW Best of the Best 2005 participant
PWG Tango and Cash Invitational participant
PWG Record 14-13 overall (1-3 as a single)
Major Titles Held: PWG Tag Team (2) RevPro Title
Notable career accomplishment: Star of Lion cock
Background/Motivation: Destiny,
Webster's defines it as:
1. Something to which a person or thing is destined: FORTUNE
2. A predetermined course of events often held to be an irresistible power or agency
Chris Bosh believes that it is his destiny to win the first annual Battle of Los Angeles.
The controversial Chris Bosh has spent the vast majority of his PWG tenure as a tag team wrestler, where he has been rapidly evolving into a true force to contend with in PWG. The buzz among PWG followers everywhere was that it was only a matter of time before Bosh broke out as a top player in PWG.
After Arrogance's tag title reign of terror came to end this summer. Bosh decided he was finally ready to be on his own, and see the sights a girl could see from Brooklyn Heights. It was finally his time to have the spotlight all to himself.. and he didn't have long to wait before he was put to the test, as at “Smells like Steen Spirit” he had an impressive albeit losing effort against Christopher Daniels. Afterward Bosh confidentally proclaimed “This is the last time you’ll see me lose in PWG for a long time” as he made his intentions clear. He was out to win it all. First the BOLA, and then the PWG title. Will Bosh be able to back up these claims? Well, if Bosh has any say in the matter... take heed wrestling world, you will know Chris Bosh... sooner rather than later.
Opening round match: El Generico, Chris Bosh is no stranger to the generic luchador, as the team of Generico/Tornado ended Arrogance's bid to regain the PWG tag team titles. So the ever popular REVENGE FACTOR~ will play a part in this one! Generico is not exactly the type that strikes fear in the hearts of his opponents, but if Bosh takes him lightly and lets his guard down for an extended period of time... he'll find himself on the losing end of the contest in a hurry.
Odds of winning: 10-1, The smart money is on Chris Bosh. You could call him a real “sleeper” in the tournament. Bosh's confidence and will to win have to make him a someone to keep your eye on in the tournament. He's improved drastically in the past years, already having been apart of several of the best matches in history PWG. He will also benefit from being on this side of bracket, with features more mat based and aerial wrestlers... than opposed to the hard hitting competitors that make up the other side of the bracket. that take much less a toll on you, going into the later rounds. I wouldn't be surprised at all, if Chris Bosh walks away with the whole thing....
Christopher Daniels
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
ECWA Super 2000 & 2004: Winner
ROH Tag Team Title Tournament: Winner
APW King of the Indies 2000 – Winner
Futaritabi Tag Team League 2002 WINNER
PWF - Legacy Cup 2002 WINNER
MLW J-Cup USA: FINALIST
TNA Tag Title Tournament 2004 Finalist
IWC Super Indy 1: Finalist
ECWA Super 8 1999: Finalist
PWG Bad Ass Mother 3000: Semi Finalist
PWG Tango and Cash participant
PWG Record: 12-8-1 overall (11-5-1 as a single)
Major Titles Held: TNA X Division (Current) TNA Tag, ROH Tag, EWF title, WPW Title, 3PW title, UPW title, British Commonwealth Juniorheavyweight title
Other notable career accomplishment: ECWA Hall of Fame, 2000 SoCal Wrestler of the year
Background/Motivation: Christopher Daniels has often stated that he is brought in to make a promotion seem world-class, and he may have a point. While other “sensations” have come and gone, Daniels has traveled the world, picking up titles and tourney victories along with way (although the prestigious ICW/ICWA Tex-Arkana Television championship continues to elude him.)
Daniels’ latest piece of gold is the TNA X-Division title, a belt he’s held since March, and it’s been both a boon and an albatross to him in PWG. He’s raised the status of that title significantly in PWG, successfully defending against Alex Shelley, Chris Sabin, El Generico and Chris Hero. However, Daniels lately feels his grasp on the X championship has prevented him from successfully closing the deal on PWG gold, to the point of believing that PWG refused him a title shot because he was sick of defending his X title on their shows. A motivated Daniels is a dangerous thing, as when he sets out on a mission, he usually accomplishes it.
Opening Round match : Daniels is faced off with Arrogance’s Scott Lost, who also brings international experience in Japan and Mexico to the table, but when faced with top-level independent talent, always comes up just short. The pressure on Lost to finally deliver a win over a big name will be immense, whereas for Daniels it’s just another day at the office. The confidence factor means that Daniels wins here, and goes deep.
Odds of winning: 5-1, Tough to overlook Christopher Daniels. He is undefeated in singles matches this year in PWG, at an impressive 7-0-1. And is without a doubt the most successful tournament wrestler on the scene today (as I pointed out earlier) The only man ever to win the ECWA Super-8 twice cannot be discounted as a favorite in the Battle of Los Angeles. If you had a Farm... I wouldn't suggest betting it on Daniels... well maybe you could just bet the barn and a few chickens. But who the hell has a farm these days anyway?
El Generico
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
EWR Elite 8 2004: WINNER
CZW Best of the Best 5: Semi Finalist
CHIKARA- World Tag Grand Prix 2005 participant
PWG Record El Generico is 6-6 overall (2-4 as a single)
Major Titles Held: IWS Title, PWG Tag Team (Current)
Notable career accomplishment: 2004 CZW Match of the year award
Background: El Generico has made a career out of surprising people. A relative unknown from Canada, Generico blew away the CZW audience and stole the spotlight from new golden boy Sexxxy Eddy at High Stakes 2. From there, Generico invaded SoCal and nearly defeated the Babe Ruth of the Region, Super Dragon. Most shocking, Generico and the Human Tornado upset Arrogance's bid to reclaim the PWG tag team titles and grabbed the gold for themselves at Zombies Shouldn't Run. Generico's victory last year in the EWR's Elite 8 tournament cemented his spot as the top cruiserweight in Quebec, now he's out to stake his claim Stateside by winning the Battle of Los Angeles..
Opening Round match: Generico also has to face a formidable obstacle in Chris Bosh, a man who recently swore to never lose again in PWG.
With Bosh's Arrogance buddies running around all night, Generico may have to endure a 3-on-1 assault to move on, odds that I think are too strong for the Skinny Black Generic Luchador to withstand.
Odds of winning: 40-1, Generico comes into this a long shot. While he is known for his spectacular performances in the ring, his efforts don't always translate to victories. Generico has had 2 PWG title shots and come up short in both, also has dropped PWG matches to Alex Shelley and Christopher Daniels
But if you look into his past history, you'll see what happens when competitors look past him, as he also holds career victories over Tournament favorites Kevin Steen and Super Dragon.
Frankie Kazarian
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
PWG Bad Ass Mother 3000: WINNER
ECWA Super 8 2003: Semi Finalist
TNA Super X Cup 2003: Semi Finalist
UPW & Zero One International Junior Heavyweight Tournament Semi Finalist
PWG Record: 16-9-2 (14-5-2 as a single)
Major Titles Held: PWG Title (2), TNA X-Division title, UPW Lightweight, MPW Title, WCWA Title, EWF Title, EWF Tag, PCW (East Coast) TV title, IWC US title, UPW Tag, PCW (East Coast) Tag,
Notable career accomplishment: 2005 Cauliflower Alley “Future Legend” Award Winner.
Write up: Frankie Kazarian forever inscribed his name in the annals of Pro Wrestling Guerrilla history with his performance at August 2003’s “Bad Ass Mother 3000” title tournament. Where he defeated Scott Lost, Lil Cholo, Christopher Daniels and Joey Ryan in route to becoming the first man ever to represent PWG as it’s champion. Since that day had one of the cornerstones of the promotion. Overcoming all the odds to become a 2-time PWG Champion. Throughout his PWG run, Frankie had always remained at the very top of the promotion. That is untill... his departure from the promotion in April 2005, when he left the cushy world of PWG to find “greener pastures” in World Wrestling Entertainment.
While in the WWE, he had little problem in the ring, as he build up an undefeated record on television, defeating Paul London, Scotty 2 Hotty, Funaki and current WWE Cruiserweight champion Nunzio with relative ease. However outside the ring is where Kazarian had became disenchanted with his new promotion, as disagreements and perceived disrespect from key WWE staff, got in the way of what really mattered to Kazarian, the wrestling (and METALLICA BABY!) So he decided to leave the so called "promised land" and return to his roots, where he be himself again (Tragically he left before they could release his new action figure! http://www.epinions.com/content_74473770628 ) without the limitations and looming threat of being raped by Bradshaw (He likes dem pretty boys)
After months in being held in captivity, Frankie Kazarian is back in his natural habitat, PWG! And Now, the only 2 time PWG champion to date. is looking to make up for lost time, and will be aiming to reclaim his spot at the very top of PWG. He will stop at nothing to prove, that he is indeed the Best around, and not Vince McMahon, Not Nickelodeon TV writers, Not Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake, nor the ever raising price of crude oil is ever gonna keep him down.
Will lightning strike twice? Can Frankie repeat? Well, as the song goes, "History repeats itself, Try and you’ll succeed, Never doubt that you’re the one, And you can have your dreams!" is this a sign of things to come? or merely the lyrics to a cheesy 80's song? Find out, Sept 3rd and 4th!
Opening round match: Rocky Romero, a blast from the Future’s past. Romero is daunting task for any competitor, he has given the best in the world runs for their money. This has all the makings to be one of the most competitive bouts in PWG history. And win, lose or draw, Frankie Kazarian will be feeling of the effects of this match for some time to come.
Odds of winning: 7-1, Frankie Kazarian within the confines of PWG, is nothing short of a phenomenon. It’s like Superman in a yellow sun solar system, when he's away from it he isn't totally at his best but when he's in it... he's nearly unstoppable! Adding in all he’s accomplished in PWG, 2 time title holder, winning the Bad Ass Mother 3000, victories over some of the biggest names in wrestling. Frankie Kazarian has got to be considered a favorite here. Can he repeat? Daniel LaRusso did it, why not Frankie Kazarian?
Jack Evans
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
Pinnacle Pro-Wrestling 2005 Title tournament: WINNER
ROH Trios Tournament 2005: Semi Finalist
CZW - Best of the Best 4 participant
PWG Record: 0-1 overall (Only man in the tournament without a PWG win)
Major Titles Held: JAPW Tag Team Title,
Background/Motivation: By Jay Doring
The King of Stuntin’ 101, Jack Evans is the least experienced participant in the Battle of Los Angeles, both in PWG and tourneys in general. However, these statistics, or his first-round opponent, independent monster AJ Styles does not faze the new champion of Pinnacle Wrestling. How do I know this? Why, because I’M AN INSIDER~! and scored this exclusive interview with the former Blitzkrieg II.
JAY:
Jack, great to see you again.
JACK:
‘Sup fool, bring the goods?
JAY:
Yeah man, here’s the case of Mountain Dew you wanted.
JACK:
Sweet dawg, so whaddya wanna know?
JAY:
Well I’m wondering how you’re feeling about your upcoming tournament…
JACK:
Well here’s the thing Jay-izzle, I ain’t bein fazed. It seems like some people still don’t believe the hype about Jack Evans. That ain’t cool maaaan- I’ve proven over and over again that Jack Evans be fo’ real, and you should believe the hype. The Corkscrew will prevail.
JAY:
So you’re confident about the Battle of Los Angeles?
JACK:
Shit dude, I thought you were talking about Tekken 5!
So there you have it ladies and gentlemen.
Opening Round match: Evans has got AJ Styles in round 1, and this is a mismatch no matter how you slice the proverbial gorgonzola. AJ is bigger, more experienced, and just as fast. Evans may need to hope that one of his big moves puts AJ away if he has any chance of winning. Stick and move, Jack... stick and move. Eye of the tiger baby!
Odds of winning: 50-1, while certainly not to be taken lightly (ask Super Dragon about that) A major factor here is ring rust- Evans only recently returned to the ring after a multi-month absence, and AJ is a fine-tuned machine. Evans will need a miracle...perhaps Danshoku Dino or the Christopher Street Connection arriving to the JCC in a jovial mood...to take this one, and I don't see it happening.
James Gibson
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
NBWA Mike Lockwood Memorial Tournament – Finalist
ECWA Super 8 2002 Semi Finalist
NWA: FL Jeff Peterson Memorial Cup Tournament 2005 participant
Best of the American Super Junior's Tournament 2005 – Semi Finalist
PWG Record 1-2 (1-1 as a single)
Major Titles Held: WWE Cruiserweight title, ROH World Title (Current) HWA Cruiserweight champion
Background/Motivation:
The preacher man says its the end of time
And the Mississippi River she's a going dry.
The interest is up and the stock markets down
And you only get mugged if you go downtown.
I live back in the woods you see,
My woman,and the kids and the dogs and me.
I got a shotgun and a rifle and a four wheel drive
And a countryboy can survive. Country folks can survive.
Can you believe this weekend will be in all likelyhood the last time we'll hear that totally rocking joint echo throughout the PWG Guerrilla Dome? Seems when it like he just made his mark on the Independent scene, James Gibson will be heading back to home to the WWE.
Gibson has experienced mixed results while in PWG, scored a major win over American Dragon at All Star Weekend, then came up short in attempts at taking the PWG title away from AJ Styles. But, James Gibson doesn't not want to be remembered as the man who could never get it done in PWG.
So on September 3rd, Gibson will be looking to forever carve his nitch in PWG history by winning the Battle of Los Angeles, before he rides off into the Velocity sunset. Will he do it? Is he even allowed to lose? Find out!
Opening Round match : Joey Ryan, Both are world-class techinical wrestlers and this meeting is highly anticipated by fans everywhere. This should prove QUITE interesting. Joey's on a major roll right now and may be close to unbeatable with his current mindset (Joey's got more tricks than a Hollywood pimp lately) And chances are James Gibson is already counting that sweet sweet WWE dough, and looking past Joey Ryan. Which would to a fatal error in judgement that could cost him the tournament.
Odds of winning: 10-1. Gibson has be a considered the man to beat .He should have a target painted on him the size an actual Target store going into this. As a victory over a contracted WWE talent iwould be quite a feather in the hat of any PWG wrestler, looking to make their name. Plus, Tournament history is not on Gibsons' side, my "research" hasn't shown that Gibson has ever won a tournament in the past (making him the only in the tournament never to do so) He is due? or just really unproven in tournaments?
Joey Ryan
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
PCW Maximum Title Tournament: WINNER
PWG Bad Ass Mother 3000: Finalist
PWG Tango and Cash Invitational: Semi Finalist
PWG Record Joey Ryan is 13-16 overall, 8-7 as a single (On a 4-0 streak in recent singles matches)
Major Titles Held: PWG Tag Team Title (2) PCW Title, PCW Maximum title, WPW Cruiserweight, WPW Hardcore Title, WCWA California title, WCWA Tag, CWA Tag, PCW Tag
Notable career accomplishment: 2004 SoCal Match of the Year Award
Background/Motivation: In the beginning, Joey Ryan embodied the very soul of PWG. He was the fan favorite, the cult hero,the heart of the promotion, always doing the right thing, he was the epitome of good. Joey Ryan was poised for the great things in PWG.... which was never more evindent than at the Bad Ass Mother 3000 in August of 2003, where he defeated not only Scorpio Sky on Night One, but more impressively was able to defeat Two future PWG champions (Adam Pearce and Super Dragon) before the clock struck midnight on Ryan’s Cinderella story as he lost in the finals to "The Future" Frankie Kazarian, coming mere inches away for the PWG title. A loss that haunts Joey Ryan to this very day. This was only a sign of things of come for Joey. As a string of severe misfortune and just plain ole’ bad luck was been sure to follow him like a myspace.com rat, who just got her allowance.
Joey's breaking point finally came at PWG's Use Your Illusion 4, where he was taken out of action for 6 months after Super Dragon psycho drove him on THE UNFORGIVENING wooden floor of the JCC gym. During his time off the shelf, Joey had to time reflected on what he was missing... what was holding him back...
In his first match back, after a difference of opinion with partner, Frankie Kazarian... Joey ended up getting a chair bent over his head with sickening precision! Then a hush fell over the crowd, when Joey Ryan (who’d just returned from a 6 month absence after post concussion syndrome) didn’t get up. As PWG Officials and random guys rushed to his aid… the fans feared the worst…
Joey was able to make it back up to his feet with the help of Kazarian, and everything appeared to be fine, until Joey Ryan shocked the entire planet as he hit with a low blow out of nowhere! WTF MAAAN! Joey went on to proclaim that he’d been held back for too long by the fans and people like Frankie Kazarian trying to get him to “Do the right thing” (The Spike Lee movie I’m guessing) and where did that get him? Sitting on his couch for 6 months eating Cheetos (not even real cheetos, the GENERIC kind! Truly a fate worst than death) PWG’s very conscience had finally had enough of losing, and turned his back on the fans that had always believed in him. Being the “nice guy” wasn’t going to cut it anymore.
From there, Joey Ryan was determined to reverse his misfortune and win at any cost. Joey's new strategy has paid off in spades. Now without concern for the fans to get in his way, he's amassed quite a winning streak! (all via assorted underhanded means of course) Joey has scored victories over some of the best technical wrestlers going today, in Alex Shelley (after using the ropes for leverage) , Mr. Excitement (with help from Arrogance) Claudio Castagnoli (blinding him with powder, preventing him from rearching the ropes) and Rocky Romero (after the use of a chair)
Had Joey Ryan finally discovered the missing ingredient keeping him from this success? He just had to cheat! Genius! I could have thought of that.
Now, nearly 2 years to the day of the Bad Ass Mother 3000 finals loss, that has haunted his career... Joey Ryan at last has the chance for vindication in yet another PWG tournament "The Battle of Los Angeles" In order to make things right with himself... he HAS got to win it all this, falling short will not suffice for Joey Ryan ever again.
(For Joey Ryan's own take on the BOLA check out: http://www.livejournal.com/~joeyeatworld/ great insight into his motivation going into the tournament. He repeats alot of the same points I made here... but I swear I wrote this thing weeks ago)
Opening Round match: James Gibson. This has to be considered a personal dream match for Joey Ryan. As I don’t think Joey Ryan’s admiration for the WWE is any secret, and he has to face a man who is basically everything Joey wants to be in wrestling, and according to his own thoughts on the matter, James Gibson
This could be considered a watershed match in the young career of Joey Ryan, if he could defeat a contracted WWE star and champion in some other company I'm forgetting the name of.... it would be
Odds of winning: 15-1, No one can deny, the hot streak Joey Ryan is on as of late. Now that he has found the edge he needed to succeed, an already formidable competitor has become By hook or by crook, Joey will do whatever it takes to go all the way this time around. However, one has to question how long lady luck (who’s considerably older than the average Joey Ryan woman) will remain on the side of Joey Ryan. If Joey gets on a roll, I don't think anyone will be able to stop him.
Fun PWG Fact: If the trend continues, Night one of the BOLA will have the same attendance as both Tango and Cash shows... combined. And more will be in the Bath Room at any given time, then attended BAM3K Night 2! (Our Little Guerrilla is growing up so fast!)
Kevin Steen
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
EWR Title Tournament WINNER
CZW Best of the Best 2005 finalist
CHIKARA- World Tag Grand Prix 2005 participant
PWG Record 8-5 overall (7-4 as a single 63%)
Major Titles Held: PWG Title (current) CZW Iron Man Title (Current) IWS Title, EWR Title
Other notable career accomplishment: 2004 CZW Match of the year award, Toured with Zero One MAX in Japan (but who hasn't really?)
Background/Motivation: On November 13th, 2004, Kevin Steen arrived in PWG with a mission, that mission was to capture the PWG title and take Super Dragon’s spot on top of the PWG mountain.
In March, Steen's master plan finally started to take shape, as he was victorious in 4-way dance also involving El Generico, Christoper Daniels and AJ Styles, earning him a title shot that very day and the chance to accomplish both his mission's at once. As he met Super Dragon for the PWG title, and despite being in a 20 plus minute contest earlier in the show, he gave the fresh Super Dragon all he could handle and more in the Main Event, before falling to his own Package Piledriver.
After another failed attempt at taking the Dragon down at "All Star Weekend" everyone thought Kevin Steen's issue with Dragon was a moot point. That is until "Jason Takes PWG" where this issue it took a very strange twist. As Kevin Steen revealed himself to be the 2nd Super Dragon that had been tormenting Super Dragon since December of 2004! And had aligned himself with SD’s former best friend, Excalibur. The show after that, Steen took away even more away from Dragon as his longtime ally, Disco Machine joined Kevin Steen's new SBS.
The next month at PWG's 2 year event, Kevin Steen rocketed to into the PWG stratusphere as he totally obliterated Super Dragon in not one but two matches. With this victory, Steen had, accomplished part one of his master plan, Super Dragon was neuturalized, as well as earning a chance to fullfill part two of his mission... to take the PWG title. And at "Zombies Shouldn't Run" after a hard fought match, Steen countered the Styles' Clash with a cradle using the ropes, to steal the PWG title away from AJ Styles. Kevin Steen had done it. His mission in PWG was at last accomplished.
There was only problem... Super Dragon wasn't down just yet. And the final showdown between the two would soon be at hand. The match was set, for the first round of PWG's Battle of Los Angeles.
Kevin Steen had already did what no one said he could ever do, by capturing the PWG gold. Now he is out to remove all doubt by finally putting Super Dragon and his legacy out of it's misery once and for all, and become the consensus king of PWG by winning the Battle of Los Angeles all in one fell swoop
.
As far as Kevin Steen, is concerned, this tournament is in the refrigerator, the door's closed, the lights are out, the eggs are cooling, the butter's getting hard, and the Jello's jiggling. With all his momentum there is no way he could ever lose... its fait accompli for Steen.
Opening Round match: Super Dragon, the toughest draw Steen could have recieved. As Super Dragon is willing to put it on the line to silence, that arrogant prick Kevin Steen. History is also working against Steen, as the remarkable SD has never failed to advance to the Semi's of any SoCal tourney. But on the flip side, Super Dragon has never pinned a fresh Kevin Steen. While Steen holds 4 career pinfalls over Super Dragon. The most important encounter of the first round by far...
Odds of winning: 2-1, Steen is currently riding such a wave of momentum, to hard to envision anyone curbing the champs path of destruction. He has his sights set only on becoming the first ever BOLA winner, and considering his track record with goals in PWG… it may not be a good idea to bet against him..
Quicksilver
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
RevPro Fight for the Revolution 2004 - WINNER
Revolution J 2004 Finalist
WPW Best of the West 2005 – Semi Finalist
RevPro Tag Title Tournament Finalist
PWG Record: 13-13 (1-3 as a single)
Major Titles Held: PWG Tag Team (2) RevPro Junior-heavyweight, AWS Lightweight, AWS Tag Team (2),
Notable career accomplishment: 2003 SoCal Rookie of the Year, 2 SoCal Tag Team of the Year awards.
Write up: July 9th 2005, The AXP at long last defeated Arrogance to win the PWG Tag team titles, in what should have been the crowning achievement in the PWG careers of Quicksilver and partner Scorpio Sky. However it was not to be, as after the match (while Quicksilver was incapacitated in the back) Scott Lost, Chris Bosh and Joey Ryan paid Scorpio Sky, the ultimate disgrace as they beat him down and removed his mask... raping him of his very identity. Sending Scorpio Sky out of PWG. Due to the disappearance of Scorpio Sky, The AXP were stripped of the titles the very next night. Leaving Quicksilver to fend for himself for the first time. Silver however was quick (pun intended!) to adapt as he was able to defeat Ronin on short notice.
The next month at PWG’s “Zombies Shouldn’t Run” Quicksilver went from the frying pan into the fire, as he had to face none other than Super Dragon. And in what could be called a star making outing. As Quicksilver went toe to toe with the Dragon, and nearly came away with the victory… before ultimately being taken out with the Barry White Driver. Even in defeat, Quicksilver had proved he belonged
His performance was so impressive, it caught the eye of new PWG Champion Kevin Steen, as he granted Quicksilver to title shot in hopes of showing the world, anything Super Dragon could do… he could do better. This was no cake walk for the champion, as once Quicksilver over came the odds and gave Steen all he could handle… before being disseminated by an ungodly Steenalizer in the corner.
Quicksilver, proved his worth, and won over the fans, with his display of toughness, ability and being able to get his ass totally beat and live to tell about it. Now, even as the shadow of his partner, Scorpio Sky still hangs above everyone in PWG, Quicksilver is determined to show that his star will rise even higher as a singles competitor as he attempts to win the BATTLE OF LOS ANGELES and prove he is 4-Real~!
Opening round match: TJ Perkins, who like Quicksilver is one of the youngest and most gifted competitors in the field. But Silver must contend with TJ's unmatched singles record, Can Quicksilver do what countless others have all tried and countless others have failed at attempting? (Well, except for Bobby Quance, but he's in the NAVY now) and put a halt to TJ's winning ways?
Odds of winning: 40-1, The sentimental favorite, Quicksilver has come on very strong the last two shows, with show stealing performances against Super Dragon and Kevin Steen. He has proven that he is capable of hanging with the top talent. But the fact being, he was defeated in both as those contests. It may be possible for him to pull one or two upsets. But I don’t see him getting past the 2nd round. He’d be a risky bet to take… but a strong showing here could raise his stock instantly.
Ricky Reyes
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
ROH Trios Tournament 2005: WINNER
UPW & Zero One International Junior Heavyweight Tournament – Semi Finalist
Best of the AMERICAN Super Juniors 2004 – Semi Finalist
ECW Super 8 2004 participant
IWA: MS Tag Tournament 2004 Semi Finalist
PWG Tango and Cash
PWG Record 13-8 overall (6-4 as a single)
Major Titles Held: ROH Tag, EWF title, EWF Tag titles (4) UPW Tag titles, IWC US title, IWC tag title, MPW Tag
Other notable career accomplishments: 2001 SoCal Tag Team of the year
Background/Motivation: You think you're done, but they pull you right back.
Ricky Reyes thought his PWG career was wrapped up. There were some highs, some lows, some laughs (“Hey look Chris! It's a black guy!”) but for the most part, Reyes was content to move on with his new life in the East Coast. That changed when there was a call to arms, the call to battle and Baja Fresh…the Battle of Los Angeles. Reyes, the fiery competitor that he is, could not let what is surely the most high profile tourney in Southern California pass by without his involvement. The former ROH tag team champion, who holds victories over men like Roderick Strong and Petey Williams in PWG, and has proved against men like CM Punk, Frankie Kazarian, Chris Sabin and Teddy Hart that he is a force to be reckoned with.
Opening Round match: History seems determined to kick Reyes in the nuts on this one. American Dragon, it seems, has not gone a single tournament without making it to at least the semis. However, it's quite obvious that AmDrag has a certain kryptonite, and that's title belts, having not held a major US indy title in his entire career. Perhaps Reyes should win the ICW/ICWA Tex-Arkana Television title and put it on the line in the tourney, THEN maybe he'll win. Otherwise this will be an uphill climb for the Havana Pitbull.
Odds of winning: 35-1. Reyes isn’t high on anyone’s list of favorites to take the tournament. He has proven himself very dangerous, and has thrived when being overlooked, as shown in his past PWG performances. Make too many mistakes against The man they call Rick Noon, and you'll find yourself on the losing end of the fight everytime.
Rocky Romero
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
Toryumon Young Dragons Tournament 2004: WINNER
ROH Trios Tournament 2005: WINNER
NJPW-USA Best of the American Super Juniors 2004/2005 (Finalist)
ECWA Super 8 2004
PWG Tango and Cash Invitational
PWG Record: 7-5 overall (1-2 as a single)
Major Titles Held: NWA World Jr. Heavyweight title (Current) ROH Tag Team Titles, CMLL Super Ligero Championship,
Notable career accomplishment: 2001 SoCal Tag Team of the year.
Write Up: There is no wrestler more dangerous competitor in the Battle of Los Angeles than Rocky Romero. A master of multiple martial arts in addition to being well versed in the art of professional wrestling, Rocky knows 1,000 ways to fuck you up. He's the only man practically immediately thrown into the fires of Japanese shootfighting and come through unscathed. When Romero is 100% and on his game, he's nearly unbeatable, blitzing through the Toryumon Young Dragon's Cup and the ROH trios tournament with relative ease. Romero was set to take the NJPW Best of the Super Juniors crown as well, before injury derailed him, and he's been seething about that bad break his entire time on the sidelines. If were a BOLA competitor, I'd be very, very affraid if I was looking across the ring to Rocky Romero scaring me down.
Opening Round: Frankie Kazarian. The element of preparation is on Romero's side. Frankie going into the tournament has been getting ready to face Chris Sabin, who he's faced about 600 times in the past year and who doesn't kick nearly as hard, and instead he gets thrown Romero at the last second, a guy who's likely been in kill mode for the last few months. The X factor here is Chris Sabin -who's side will he pick, if any? Why is he even gonna be there in the first place? Why have I been drinking so much lately? Sabin's involvement might be the sole determining factor in which of these two extremely versatile competitors move on in the tourney.
Odds of Winning: 20-1 As a late entrant, he may not stand out amongst the field. But Rocky is a very dangerous wrestler in a tournament environment. Already at age 23, Romero has several impressive tournament performances to his credit. The real question here has to be... is he fully recovered from the recent injury that put him out of the NJPW BOTSJ? And if not, how will a nagging injury effect him in the later rounds?
PWG FUN FACT: The best PWG tournament record belongs to B-Boy, who is 5-0....
Scott Lost
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
GCCW Lightweight title tournament – WINNER
WPW Best of the West 2003 – Finalist
PWG Tango and Cash – Semi Finalist
AWS Tag Title Tournament – Semi Finalist
PWG Bad Ass Mother 3000 participant
PWG Record 20-12 overall (2nd man in PWG history to reach 20 wins) 3-2 as a single.
Major Titles Held: PWG Tag Titles (2/3?) GSCW Lightweight (2), CWA Tag, AWS Tag, WCWA Tag, PCW title
Other notable career accomplishment: 2002 SoCal Tag Team of the year award w/ Joey Ryan, tours of Mexico and Japan.
Background/Motivation: For several years now, Scott Lost has been on the verge of nationwide superstardom. Just needing that little shove to send him over the edge and open up the eyes of those filthy non-believers. But what would it take for him to get noticed? A succuessful tour of Osaka Pro didn't do it, Impressive outings against Austin Aries, Super Dragon and American Dragon didn't do it, being apart of the 2 of the most dominant tag teams in recent years didn't do it either...
Joey Ryan, Chris Bosh got booked CZW, Top Gun Talwar got booked in LXW in Florida, AXP got booked in CZW, Quicksilver appeared in JAPW. What about Scott? Where's his shot? Damn it.... makes you wonder, what the hell is wrong with these people? What more does Scott have to prove before getting noticed? The answer would soon become clear... as PWG announced it would be holding a major tournament featuring 16 of the best on scene. Here was Lost's chance, his opportunity to breakthrough in a major way. And show the world what they were missing. If Lost can pull this one off… the proverbial sky is the limit, and the wrestling world will have no choice but to stand up and take notice.
Could be Sept 3rd and 4th, the biggest nights of the Scott Lost's professional life... will he rise to meet the challenge, force the world to take notice and become THE BATTLE OF LOS ANGELES winner? (am I going to end every write up with a question? I don't know)
Opening Round match: Lost will have his hands full with Christopher Daniels, the current TNA X-Division champion. Who is a remarkable 7-0-1 this year in one on one matches, defeating the likes of Kevin Steen, Chris Hero, Chris Sabin, Alex Shelley, El Generico and Lost’s own partner Chris Bosh. The man AJ Styles wasn't able to defeat in 60 minutes! (not the Television show either) However, Daniels has shown himself to be vulnerable in the past, where he’s dropped matches to the likes of Tony Stradlin and Bobby Quance after quick flash roll ups. If Lost can find a way to dictate the tempo, it's possible he can find a way to exploit a rare Daniels mistake and come away with a win over the Indy Legend. I just hope he's been studying King of The Ring 1993....
Odds of winning: 20-1, Lost has rearched at a crossroads in his PWG career, he needs to win here, he cannot let this slip away.. Making it past the highly competitive "Block A" will be an uphill climb. He'll need everything in his vast arsenal, if he hopes to even past the first round. But don't be surprised to see Lost turn a few heads here. Especially if later rounds where the opposition will be more susceptible to his "bread and butter" the sharpshooter (that has made the likes of Super Dragon and Joey Ryan tap out in the past) Lost is not a man to take lightly here.
Super Dragon
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
RevPro Revolution J 2001 Winner
JCW Jersey J-Cup 2004: Winner
RevPro Revolution 02/03/04 – Finalist
WPW Best of the West 03 – Finalist
PWG Tango & Cash Invitational Finalist
CZW Best of the Best 2005 finalist (and was named as Fan's choice for Best of the best)
PWG Bad Ass Mother 3000 Semi Finalist
PWG Record Super Dragon is 25-12 overall (17-6 as a single 73%)
Major Titles Held: PWG Title, PWG Tag Titles (the only man ever to hold both the PWG Titles) RevPro Title, JCW Junior-heavyweight title, APW Internet title,
Other notable career accomplishment: 3 time SoCal Wrestler of the year, 4 SoCal Match of the year awards
Background/Motivation: Simply put, Super Dragon IS Pro Wrestling Guerrilla. Since the very beginning Super Dragon has been PWG’s franchise, its Marquee name. However there were those in PWG that took exception to Super Dragon’s position in the company, namely his best friend, Excalibur. Who felt Super Dragon’s ego was holding him and the rest of PWG back
So, Excalibur set in motion a sinister scheme to rid PWG of its oppressor. He recruited Kevin Steen to become Super Dragon. And wage psychological warfare, as Steen dressed as Super Dragon begin attacking the real Super Dragon when he least expected it. For months, SD was haunted by these attacks, never knowing when or where they would come next. Perhaps just the anticipation of an attack was enough to cost him the title he held so dear, as he fell to AJ Styles at “All Star Weekend Night 2” Phase one was now complete.
The next month, the next stage came into effect, as Excalibur revealed himself as the mastermind behind the attacks, and with the aid of Kevin Steen defeated Super Dragon in his signature “Guerrilla Warfare” match. The show after that, more of Dragon’s empire began to slip away as longtime ally, Disco Machine turned on SD and cost him a tag match to Steen and Excalibur.
The downward spiral continued at “The 2nd Annual PWG Bicentennial Birthday Extravaganza” where The New SBS destroyed the team of Super Dragon/Human Tornado/El Generico in an elimination tag match. With Steen last eliminating Super Dragon. The very next night, Kevin Steen scored the biggest win of his career as he defeated Super Dragon in an unbelievable brawl after a MAMMOTH 450 splash.
Super Dragon rebounded at “Zombies shouldn’t Run” with a hard fought win over Quicksilver, breaking his 5 match losing streak (A victory which Kevin Steen one upped the following show by defeating Quicksilver in a more timely fashion)
At “"Smells Like STEEN Spirit" (a name which couldn’t have made SD happy) Dragon attempted to remove all doubt as to his place in pecking order, by at last defeating, the one man he could never get the better of, SAMOA JOE. Unfortunately it wasn’t to be, as after a valiant effort, Super Dragon was unable to lift the massive Joe up for the Psycho Driver… and fell to the dreaded muscle buster.
Mighty Casey had struck out….
One was left to wonder, had Kevin Steen and Excalibur succeeded in finally dethroning the King of SoCal? Ridding PWG of the dreaded oppressor?
On September 3rd, don’t call it a comeback, as Super Dragon is out for revenge… and redemption. In what could be Super Dragon’s last shot to retake his rightful spot at the top of PWG by not only silencing, Kevin Steen, but by winning the Battle of Los Angeles! Now more than ever… Super Dragon’s back is against the wall, can he again rise to the occasion? Or is the Era of the Dragon officially at end?
Opening Round match: Super Dragon without a doubt the toughest first round draw, in Current PWG Champion Kevin Steen. Steen has terrorized Dragon all year long, and has perhaps been his most hated adversary to date. Steen has made it clear, that he doesn’t want to merely defeat Super Dragon… he wants to literally destroy him and end his career. Something he came close to accomplishing in route to victory over Super Dragon at PWG’s 2 year anniversary. Super Dragon has always managed to thrive in the face of adversity… but can even he to able to once again withstand the onslaught of Kevin Steen? Sept 3rd. Kevin Steen Vs. Super Dragon III The rubber match.
(for a more in depth look at the SD/Steen history check out my 2-Year preview http://www.socaluncensored.com/board/showthread.php3?t=8699 )
Odds of winning: 4-1, despite his recent losing streak… it’s hard to bet against Super Dragon. SD has never failed to advance to the Semi-Finals in any Southern California tournament, he’s participated in. Odds are if he makes it past the 1st round, he’s a sure lock for the Finals.
TJ Perkins
Credentials:
Notable Tournament appearances:
Inoki Dojo American Young Lions 2004: WINNER
ECW Super 8 2005: FINALIST
NWA ECCW Pacific Cup Tournament FINALIST
GCCW Lightweight title tournament – Finalist
PWG Record: 15-6 overall, 12-1 in one on one matches (Best singles match record currently in PWG)
Major Titles Held: APW Internet title, UIWA Cruiserweight title, IWC Cruiserweight title
Notable career accomplishment: 2001 SoCal Rookie of the year
Write up: What do Vito Thomaseli, Zokre, Phoenix Star, Chuck Mercury, Black Tigers, Ricky Reyes, Tony Kozina, Brad Bradley, Josh Prohibition, Top Gun Talwar, UK Kid, Tony Stradlin, Human Tornado, Davey Richards and Hardkore Kidd all have in common? No, they aren’t the cast of this season’s “PWG Surreal Life” they are the wrestlers who have all fallen victim to TJ Perkins in PWG.
TJ Perkins is a man of many of names and also many talents, besides being able juggle chainsaws, he is also one of the most versatile competitors in PWG. Displaying a lethal combinination of striking attacks, crippling ground techniques and the ability to take to the air with the best of them that . TJ is one of the most polished workers on the entire PWG roster, and has shown he can adapt to just about any style thrown his way. Time and time again, TJ has proved himself to be a legitimate threat to any PWG competitor… large or small on his way to amassing the top singles record in PWG (winning 92% of his singles matches) Yet, for some reason… he’s yet to have been granted a title shot in PWG.
So what does TJ have to do to get recognized in PWG? Well, he could stick to a single gimmick for one… or he could force PWG to stand up and take notice of his accomplishments and prove he is the top singles wrestler in PWG
Sept 3rd, TJ's puts his unmatched it all on the line in hopes of being declared the victor of the BATTLE OF LOS ANGELES!
Opening Round match: Quicksilver. In the past, Perkins’ has eaten competitors like Quicksilver for breakfast in PWG. But shouldn't take his fellow young speed merchant lightly. If Quicksilver gets into his offensive rhythm... TJ can kiss his sparkingly won-loss record goodbye.
Odds of winning: 25-1, the real dark horse of the field (it’s a federal law that you have to use the term “Darkhouse” in tournament previews) Just this year, he has made it to the finals of both the Super 8 and ECCW Pacific Tournaments, and has shown that he is real a clutch performer when put under pressure. The knock on TJ however is that he's never truly been tested in PWG, he can defeat Davey Richards ok... but how would he fare in there with a Super Dragon, Frankie Kazarian or a James Gibson? Time will tell.....
ALSO appearing will be Davey Richards! The Human Tornado! Excalibur! Disco Machine! Gunning for Hookers! And for Night 2: Nosawa! Kikutaro (Formally Ebessan, That's right I said formally. Snappy dresser that guy) and SAMOA JOE (according, Mr. Joe's webpage)
Final Thoughts: Well there you go, 16 entrants, 16 stories, 16 different reasons to win. The fate of alot of goals, hopes, dreams, ambitions, futures and expections will be decided on Sept 3rd and 4th...as only one man will see the culmination of his mission, while 15 others will taste the bitter pill of defeat. Who will be the victor of the fist ever BATTLE OF LOS ANGELES!
This ends, The BOLA Inside Track. It is now, your challenge is to analyze as much information as you can, weigh the probabilities of each competitor winning, and subsequently compare your opinion to the oddsmaker's. Make the right judgment and you win! It's as simple as that. While luck may be a deciding factor in the outcome of any single bet, and will inevitably go against you on occasion, it will balance out in the end.
Before we go, PWG Fans, let me remind you of something important: enjoying the shows. In everyone's desire to bet on the best wrestler and root for them like you own them, please don't forget to enjoy the matches. You are watching something very special when you watch the wrestling at Hollywood-Los Feliz JCC. You are seeing history in the making. And witnessing living history being presented each and every show! So enjoy it, Pro Wrestling is a true sport, it’s not all about the gambling. It’s all about having fun, and forgetting your troubles for a few precious hours while trying to avoid that annoying AJ Styles fan with the “Gatorade” So be well, and wager responsibly.
Best Regards and happy wagering,
Paul Newberry
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