Clash in Clifton

Clash in Clifton Subhead Pro-wresting returns to Clifton after 38-year hiatus Nathan Diebenow Editor Wed, 06/05/2024 - 06:24 Image

• Legendary pro-wrestler Charlie Haas celebrated a little prematurely in his match against 'SuperTex' Brent McKenzie in the Clifton Middle School gym during the Clifton Volunteer Fire Department's pro-wrestling fundraiser on Saturday night, June 1. Nathan Diebenow | Meridian Tribune

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After a nearly four-decade drought, the spectacle of professional wrestling returned to the gymnasium at Clifton Middle School on Saturday night, June 1.

For the benefit of the Clifton Volunteer Fire Department, 360 Pro-Wrestling put on a show that captured the imaginations of spectators young and old, male and female, Black and white.

Thelasttimeaprofessional wrestling match occurred in the “Cub's Den” at Clifton ISD was when wrestling legends Kerry Von Erich defeated The Great Khali on May 8, 1986.

The dual jumbotron screens not only announced this piece of local history to the audience but also stirred up the nostalgia with other memorable moments in pro-wrestling lore before the “Clash in Clifton” officially began.

Inside the gym, the atmosphere was electric with lights flashing and music booming. Spectators lined the stands in the perimeter while others sat in folding chairs on tarps above the gym floor in front of the magnificent ring.

Both seasoned wrestlers and rising stars ignited the darkness with high-energy matches and heartfelt moments.

The event kicked off with a special welcome from the organizers, expressing gratitude to the community for supporting local military veterans but also to the sponsors for backing the Clifton Volunteer Fire Department's fundraising efforts.

The night featured an array of wrestling talent, including a surprise appearance by a former WWF wrestler who shared his journey from humble beginnings to professional wrestling fame.

Indeed, among the evening's highlights was a tribute to Charlie Haas, a wrestling legend with roots in Texas and Oklahoma.

With 360 Pro-Wresting President Aaron Presley and his company's board of directors, over 20 prowrestling superstars in the group based in Belton, Texas, stood around the ring to honor Haas.

Haas's emotional speech reminisced about his early days watching wrestling on TV and his journey through various wrestling federations, including ECW and WWF. He also spoke movingly about his late brother Russ who had been a significant influence in his career and life.

Little did the audience know, but Haas was set up to return to the ring against long-time rival “SuperTex” Brent McKenzie “The Man From Waco” for the 360 Pro Heavyweight Championship later in the program.

The audience was treated to a series of thrilling matches that showcased the wrestlers' skill and athleticism.

When the dust settled, Izzy James defeated Alex Arsenal; The OMG's (Action Jackson and Mike Anthony) defeated The Bad Boys of Wrestling (Kool Daddi Danzell and The Mountain).

Morgan Mercy became the first ever 360 Texas Bluebonnet Champion by defeating Machiko; Damo McCullough took out Bam Bam Malone for the 360 Pro Central Texas Championship; and Nick Scott won the “Call Your Shot” Ladder Match over Imon Deshon, Stewy, Nathaniel Greysin, King Crawdaddy, and Boss Baines.

Each bout was met with cheers and applause, as fans were on the edge of their seats throughout the night. The wrestlers displayed not only their physical prowess but also their showmanship, engaging the crowd with dramatic moves and entertaining banter.

As the evening progressed, the excitement built up to the main event where Tim Storm dropped out so Super Tex could finally get revenge on his long-time rival Charlie Haas.

The match was intense, with both wrestlers giving it their all, but McKenzie prevailed in an underhanded move to the chagrin of the crowd.

The pro-wrestling show at Clifton Middle School's gym was not just a showcase of athletic talent but also a celebration of the wrestling community's resilience, dedication, and passion.

It left an indelible mark on everyone present, ensuring that the spirit of wrestling will continue to thrive in Clifton.

After the incredible event, the Clifton Volunteer Fire Department thanked the community for supporting its first ever pro-wrestling fundraiser.

“Thank you! What a great event last night! Our first ever Pro Wrestling fundraiser went great,” a CVFD spokesperson said on social media. “Thank you to everyone who bought tickets, concessions and to the sponsors.

“Also thank you to Clifton ISD for the use of the gym! And a special thank you to all our great sponsors who made this happen!” the CVFD concluded.