The KSWA Championship Committee Could Right Its Worst Wrong Independence Day

By Trapper Tom, Editor, KSWA Digest

Shawn Blanchard defeated “The Apostle” Joshua Kavod for the Keystone State Wrestling Alliance (KSWA) Heavyweight Championship last Saturday night before the best crowd ever assembled at Gino Brothers in Sharpsburg.

The win, “The Enforcer’s” seventh as the KSWA champion, came in a unique fashion. “King” Del Douglas handed Blanchard a foreign object, believed to be brass knuckles, and he hit Kavod with a stiff right hand. One, two, three.

Accompanying Douglas was another member of the Dynasty, Kris Kash. One-half of the KSWA tag team champions, Kash was the man Blanchard pinned on January 20, 2007, which cost La Lucha the most prized championship in the Commonwealth.

Then—as well as two subsequent times as KSWA Heavyweight Champion—Blanchard never gave La Lucha a one-on-one rematch.

Eighteen years have passed since that fateful winter night. January 20, 2007, was the first night for Battle Bowl. It was a year before the formation of the KSWA Hall of Fame, the most vaunted and recognized ceremony of its type in independent wrestling.

La Lucha, famously on the cover of the Pittsburgh City Paper, the first and most prominent Pittsburgh independent professional wrestler to hold that distinction.

At the KSWA Arena on 51^st Street in the Lawrenceville neighborhood within the city of Pittsburgh. At the time, the Championship Committee was naming events. This one was “KSWA Revenge.” A post-FanFest crowd watched The Blood Beast defeat "The Drunken Luchador" Joey Quervo and the Latin Assassin defeated Zero.

In a handicap match, Biker Al and "The King" Del Douglas defeated "Dr. Devastation" Lou Martin.

The reigning KSWA tag team champions, The International Thugs defeated Shane Starr and "The Snakeman" Deven Michaels to retain the K.S.W.A. Tag Team Titles. "Mr. 8x10" Michael Cruz defeated Justin Sane.

In a throwback of sorts, Anthony Alexander defeated Ali Kaida to retain The Golden Triangle Title. In addition, Alexander won the 1st ever “Megastar Melee Battle Royal”, a precursor to “Battle Bowl” to be the Number One contender for the KSWA Heavyweight Title. (His win would overshadow any chance for La Lucha to earn his “Revenge”).

Shawn Blanchard versus La Lucha was the feud of 2006. On December 6, 2006, KSWA realized that it had an incredible experience with FanFest. KSWA Owner Bobby O was the special guest referee. The Latin Assassin was in La Lucha’s corner and Frank Durso was advising Shawn Blanchard. Durso’s services were stunted as he was placed in a strait jacket. When La Lucha defeated Blanchard, the roof was blown off the former Moose Lodge.

Some 49 days later, "The Enforcer" Shawn Blanchard defeated La Lucha and Kris Kash (who was added as a third competitor in a move that has never been explained) to become the new KSWA Heavyweight Champion.

Kash would go on to win the KSWA Championship in a FanFest match that included Blanchard; however, the has never been championship justice for La Lucha.

In 2020, La Lucha was formally inducted into the KSWA Hall of Fame in the COVID year that didn’t afford a ceremony. Semi-retired from wrestling who has invested wisely in a conglomerate of taco restaurants, La Lucha has always been a celebrity in Mexico, hence the nickname “The Mayor of Mexico City.”

But he has not had that one-on-one opportunity with Blanchard. Might the KSWA Championship Committee recognize one of the most heinous oversights in its history?

Blanchard is scheduled to travel to Johnstown on Saturday and defend the KSWA gold at 814 Wrestling’s annual “Thundercade” festival of matches. He will defend against “The Face of Pittsburgh” Lou Martin.

If Blanchard gets by Martin, perhaps the Krazies should write to the KSWA Championship Committee and force their hand at Lawrenceville’s Independence Day celebration. Nothing says America, the KSWA and Pittsburgh professional wrestling like Shawn Blanchard defending the richest prize in the Commonwealth, a gold trophy for the ages, against “The Mayor of Mexico City,” La Lucha.

 

 

 

History Is Made For Blanchard As KSWA Returns To Sharpsburg

Shawn Blanchard extends the record as the 7-time KSWA Heavyweight Champion.
Photo by Trapper Tom

By Trapper Tom, Editor, KSWA Digest

As the Keystone State Wrestling Alliance returns to Gino Brothers in Sharpsburg, much of the professional wrestling world took note of the main event, which featured The Dynasty’s Shawn Blanchard vs the KSWA Champion, “The Apostle” Joshua Kavod.

Some observers said with only six months to go in the history of Pittsburgh’s KSWA, and with a stacked deck of challengers, this may have been Blanchard’s last attempt at the richest prize in the Commonwealth.

It was also the annual Mario Ferraro, Sr. Memorial Tournament. Named for a beloved firefighter and family man, the cup has become iconic for the town along the banks of the Allegheny River.

In addition to that, a spate of championships were on the line.

Tag Match: Freek Show vs. Captain Curly John and T-Rantula

Captain Curly John and T-Rantula met The Ram and Man Child from the Freek Show in the opening contest.

The Ram manhandles Curly John. The Captain tags in the Hall of Famer, T-Rantula. T grabs The Ram’s beard. T tosses Ram into the corner and into the ropes before a clothesline drops him to the mat.

T tags Curly John back in but the Ram is ready. He gets Curly into his corner, where Man-Child is ready. Man-Child rakes Curly’s eyes over the top ropes. Man-Child is all over the Captain.

The Ram is back in and he continues the offense on Captain Curly. Man-Child has Curly John on the mat for a sleeper hold. Curly gets to T-Rantula and he goes right after Man-Child. T-Rantula and Captain Curly have Man-Child in the corner.

Man-Child recovers and with Captain Curly John tagged in, goes after the much smaller man.

Man-Child drops an elbow on Captain Curly John and gets the win. 7:35.

Afterwards, T celebrates with Captain Curly John and waves to the masses.

The Mario Ferraro Sr. Memorial Tournament. Justin Sane vs. Lou Martin

The veteran Sane gets the upper hand over Martin. Sane gets Martin into the ropes. He drapes Martin’s arm over the top rope.

It’s all Sane in the early going. Mayor Mystery gets in the way and soon Martin is in charge.

He gets Sane in the corner for a chop. He follows that up with a Bulldog and gets a two. Then Lou gets some offense. Martin delivers an elbow to the head. Martin drops him after a side slam. Two count.

Sane recovers and hits a modified pile driver. Two and a half count. Martin gets a shoulder up at two.

Sane goes up to the top for the frog splash. Martin gets his knees up and gets the win. 8:28

Semi Final for the Mario Ferraro Sr. Memorial Tournament

This contest became a title defense for the Golden Triangle Championship as “Handsome Harley T.” made a “Professional” move and cashed in his Battle Bowl opportunity for the Golden Triangle Championship.

Harley T. Morris, Freek E. Doyle and Golden Triangle Champion Freek E. Doyle start out.

Exotic has Freek down in an alligator roll front face lock.

All three Megastars are on their feet and Morris hits Doyle with an elbow. With Exotic in the ropes, Morris digs at his nose.

Morris has Exotic down and gets a two count. Freek recovers and kicks Morris. Morris has Exotic in a front face lock. Exotic powers up. Exotic gets an elbow up when Morris charges in.

Exotic DDT’s Morris and gets a two count.

Freek hits Exotic with an F 5. Exotic battles with Doyle and drops him down. Doyle escapes two charges in the corner by his opponents.

He catches Exotic who tried a flying body block. Morris drop-kicks him down. Freek catches Exotic for the pin. 7:16.

KSWA tag team championship: New Glory v. Kris Kash and Shane Starr

Hunter Huffman goes to the ring with Super Ginger. Big Tony Onyx has COVID and wasn’t able to attend. Hunter extolls his “new” tag team partner as the veteran Super Ginger.

Jimmy James calls for the bell and we are underway.

It’s Shane Starr and Hunter Huffman in the early going. Huffman has Starr in the corner. They lock up after a clean break. Starr gets the wrist lock and continues to crank it. Kash is tagged in and he drops Huffman’s arm over the top rope. “King” Del Douglas controls things for the Dynasty on the outside. Starr bodyslams Hunter twice and gets a two count.

Kris Kash distracts the referee as Del Douglas attacks from the outside. Kash kicks Huffman to the outside. Kash dives on top of Huffman.

Kash tags Starr back in and he goes after Huffman. Starr suplexes Huffman. There’s a two count. Starr splashes Huffman in the corner. Starr misses a splash and Huffman tags in Super Ginger. Ginger clotheslines Starr and Kash comes in for the save.

Kash grabs James. Starr is in the corner for some Ginger offense. There was a sidewalk slam Starr kicks out of Ginger’s pin attempt. Starr appears to have injured his knee. Ginger gets an arm bar on Starr. Kash is eager for the tag.

Starr kicks up from Ginger’s pin attempt at two. Douglas shouts for Starr to tag out to Kash. Starr gets Ginger in a single leg lock and chops his way out.

Starr tosses Ginger over the top rope. Starr suplexes Ginger from the apron. The hometown fans chant for “Shane.” Two count as Ginger gets a shoulder up.

Kash is tagged in and clotheslines Hunter down. There’s a double clothesline between Kash and Huffman.

Starr is in and double drop kicks both Ginger and Huffman.

Douglas shouts “We got this” to the tag team champions. Kash and Starr, Huffman and Ginger are in.

Kash drops a leg on Ginger as Starr holds him in the center of the ring. Kash and Starr retain. 11:14

Mario Ferraro Sr. Memorial Tournament Finals. Lou Martin v. Freek E Doyle

Freek has the immediate advance. Two count with Freek on Martin. He’s all over the Face of Pittsburgh. Doyle has Martin in a rare position, one in which he is not getting any offense.

And just like that, Martin is up and all over Freek with clotheslines and other offense. Martin has Freek in the corner for a chop and pounds his head into the top turnbuckle. Martin does the thing in another corner and a third. The last one, Martin hesitated for affect.

Martin whips Doyle into a corner and meets him there with a clothesline and 10 punches to the top of the head. However, Freek falls on Martin and gets a near pinfall.

Martin hits Freek with a DDT out of nowhere. Remarkably, he only gets a two count.

Martin gets pizza dough and hits Freek with it. The dough is tossed out.

Mystery tosses his cane. He bashes Martin with it and gets the win. 8:24.

Five Star Championship: Tyler Grayson v. J-Ru (champion)

The fans chant “T-Pot” at the Five Star Champion.

The two similar-sized Megastars lock up and Grayson breaks clean.

Grayson breaks out of a J-Ru hold in the corner. The two take their time feeling each other out.

Grayson has J-Ru in an abdominal stretch and then hip tosses him. A follow up drop kick falls the former KSWA Heavyweight Champion to the outside. Grayson shadows J-Ru as he talks to members of the audience. J-Ru turns around and Grayson is there with a couple of shots.

J-Ru has Grayson down and puts a boot on him for a two count. J-Ru is angry that the count wasn’t “fast enough.”

There’s another lazy count that ends at two.

Back inside, Grayson hits a DDT and gets two.

Grayson has more offense, J-Ru drops him with shove and clothesline. J-Ru has Grayson in the corner for a series of chops and whips him into another corner. J-Ru chops Grayson. He misses a splash. Grayson hits a back breaker. He is slow in turning J-Ru over. Two count.

Grayson chops J-Ru. J-Ru fights back. They trade chops. Grayson fights out of offense and hits a series of suplexes.

J-Ru gets out of an attempted F-5 and drops Grayson with a modified DDT. 12:20 J-Ru retains.

KSWA Heavyweight Championship: Shawn Blanchard (w/Del Douglas) vs. Joshua Kavod

Blanchard forces Kavod in the ropes. He fights out and stings Blanchard. Douglas pulls the referee out and James tosses The King from ringside.

Blanchard has Kavod down and drops a knee on his chest. Blanchard digs at Kavod’s face. Referee James checks on Kavod and he will not give up. Kavod stomps his foot, gets up and is hit with a spinebuster. There is a count of two before Kavod gets a shoulder up.

Blanchard distracts the referee and kicks Kavod low. Blanchard gets Kavod in the corner and drives a shoulder into the champion’s gut. Kavod dives on Blanchard but misses with a second splash. The two trade blows in the center of the ring. Kavod kicks Blanchard in the mush. Two count. Blanchard gets a shoulder up. Kavod hits Blanchard with a forearm smash. Kavod dives on Blanchard but the Enforcer gets out of the way.

Blanchard drives an elbow onto Kavod’s knee.

Blanchard gets Kavod in the Figure Four.

Blanchard has the leg lock in for a long time. Kavod tries to roll him over and finally does. Blanchard is now cowering in pain. Blanchard gets to the ropes and forces the break. Kavod hits the DDT.

Both Megastars are slow in getting to their feet.

Blanchard chops Kavod low. Blanchard picks Kavod up, swings him around and clobbers referee James with Kavod’s feet.

Kavod hits “Go to Church” on Blanchard. Both Megastars are down. Douglas and Kash, the Dynasty, run to the ring as the referee is down for the second time of the evening. Douglas gives Blanchard something. Both men are up. Blanchard hits Kavod with a foreign object, believed to be brass knuckles.

James recovers and makes the count to three. In 12:15, Blanchard is the new KSWA Heavyweight Champion. He celebrates as the event comes to a close.

 

 

KSWA Hall Of Fame Adds 6, Blanchard Is Abby, Surprising New Tag Team Champions!

The KSWA Class of 2025 from left: former Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto, "King" Del Douglas, Sniper, The Latin Assassin, J-Ru and Skippy Hawke. Photos by Tim Steiner.

By Trapper Tom, Editor, KSWA Digest

Before the event, Sheraden American Legion Commander Don Scholz led a flag ceremony for fallen veterans. A group of youngsters were in the ring, holding the American flag, as well as others from the branches of service. It was a touching pre-cursor to a remarkable evening.

Joe Abby Memorial Tournament Semi Final #1: Blanchard v. Yinza

The action begins with new KSWA Hall of Famer “The King” Del Douglas leading Shawn Blanchard to the ring to face Yinza in the semi-finals of the Joe Abby Memorial Tournament.

The bell rings and Yinza avoids an ambush from Blanchard. He delivers shoulder blocks into the stomach and a splash. Yinza Monkey flips Blanchard to begin the vaunted “Three Rivers” but Blanchard slides out of the ring. There’s a pin attempt once back in that ends at two.

The veteran Blanchard buries an elbow in Yinza and the Luchadore can’t breathe. On the outside, Douglas gets Yinza in the ropes. Yinza kicks out of a pin attempt.

Blanchard pulls Yinza down from behind by pulling his mask. He then kicks Yinza down.

Blanchard gives Yinza the Swinging Neck Breaker and gets a two-count.

Blanchard hits Yinza with the Sleeper hold. Yinza fights out of it and hits the Stunner. Blanchard gets a boot on the bottom rope, thanks to Douglas’ interference.

Blanchard has brass knuckles. He wallops Yinza and wins in 8:10.

KSWA 5-Star Championship: J-Ru vs. Captain Curly John

Referee Jimmy James calls for the bell and this championship defense is off to the races. The fans are behind challenger Captain Curly John.

J-Ru tries to get a “J-Ru’s Great” chant from the overflow crowd. They answer with a differing sentiment.

There was an initial collar and elbow lock up but other than that, two minutes in there was the most minimal of wrestling action.

Once the action starts, Captain Curly John has the distinct advantage. J-Ru dabs to the outside and continues to stay there until the good Captain gets out of the ring and chases behind him.

After some nonsense, J-Ru spins around and Captain Curly John hits him with a fist. Once inside, J-Ru catches Captain and DDTs him into the canvas. There’s a two count.

There’s a lazy pin attempt with one foot. That ends at one.

J-Ru has Captain Curly in the corner and works on his leg. J-Ru clips his knee from behind. There’s a pin attempt but Curly gets into the ropes.

A whip attempt lands with Curly falling face-first on the mat. J-Ru pushes the ref away and goes in for a clothesline. Curly hits him and there’s a pin attempt. J-Ru gets his boot in the ropes.

J-Ru clubs away at the Captain, hits a low blow and drops him with a DDT and gets the win 9:42.

Joe Abby Memorial Tournament Semi-finals #2: Shane Starr v. Harley T. Morris

In the earliest of goings, it’s all Shane Starr. Morris gets tossed over the top rope and onto the concrete below. But once back inside, it’s all Morris.

The fans are against Morris, but he’s angry back at them. Starr tries to get some advantage, but Morris grabs locks of hair and pull him down.

Morris synchs in from behind and Starr begins to break out of it before Morris pulls to down again.

Once back up, Starr is all over Morris. He drops him and locks him in the Sharpshooter. Morris taps out in 7:00 and Starr advances to the finals later in the evening.

KSWA Hall of Fame: KSWA Owner Bobby O introduces the newest inductees into the KSWA Hall of Fame: Sniper, Skippy Hawke, The Latin Assassin, “King” Del Douglas and former Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto.

Last Man Standing Match: Rev Ron Hunt vs. Lou Martin

Martin races out and goes right after Hunt. Martin takes him to the outside and onto the 50/50 table. About two minutes into the match, Martin pushes Hunt in the ring and the veteran takes that chance to catch his breath and go full bore against Martin.

Hunt grabs the house microphone and hits Martin with the weapon.

Hunt grabs the official telephone to the Kommission. Hunt is in control and hits Martin with a cane. Hunt does have some fans in attendance that want to see him beat Martin; however, the former KSWA Champion rallies and uses whatever he can against his foe.

Martin grabs the ringside monitor and hits Hunt with it. He even drops hit on the challenger for “The Face of Pittsburgh.”

Martin has a chain wrapped around his fist. He blasts Hunt with it.

Martin blasts Hunt with another house microphone. The former fan favorite falls to the cement floor.

Hunt is back in the ring and low blows Martin. Hunt grabs the microphone and ring bell. Hunt smashes him in the crotch with it, then hits him in the head.

Hunt hits Martin with a chair and there’s a count from the referee to six before he gets to his feet.

Hunt gets a table. He drops Martin in the center of the ring and hits him with a curb stomp. Jimmy James starts the count. The count is up to nine before Martin gets to his feet. Hunt puts Martin on the table in the center of the ring. Martin moves before Hunt hits the table. The fans explode as Martin goes to the corner. Hunt is on the table. There’s the Swon Ton onto Hunt.

Both men are spent but Martin gets to his feet and get the nod. 15:40

Joe Abby Memorial Tournament Finals: Blanchard vs. Starr

After 25 years, referee Mark Charles III found brass knucks in the boot of Shawn Blanchard before action began. The bell rings and both long-time foes face off.

Blanchard pulls Starr down from behind via the long locks. “I yelled at him,” referee Charles answers to Starr’s objections.

Blanchard gets some offense against Starr. Starr recovers, kicks Blanchard goes for the Shaprshooter. He rolls him up. Blanchard shakes it off. Starr struggles. Douglas helps by pulling Blanchard to the ropes.

On the outside, Blanchard runs away from Starr and once back inside, the lays the double ax handle on the fan favorite. He whips Starr’s throat into the bottom rope.

Starr fights back. He misses a splash in the corner. Blanchard goes to the top rope. Starr meets him there. He tosses Blanchard across the ring and into a 2 ½ count.

Starr drops an elbow on Blanchard’s leg. Blanchard tries to pull out of it.

Blanchard pokes him in the eye.

Blanchard hits Starr with the Spinebuster. Starr kicks out at two. Starr is up and kicks Blanchard. There’s a clothesline and an attempt at the Sharpshooter. Blanchard rolls him up and gets the win in 10:55.

Shawn Blanchard was the very first Joe Abby Memorial Tournament winner in 2008 and the last in 2025.

KSWA tag team championships: Triple Threat Match

Anthony Alexander injured his shoulder in training for this match. That means that Kris Kash didn’t have a partner. KSWA Owner Bobby O drafts Shane Starr, the former Lost Boys, to be partners for one night.

It’s a disgruntled Kash starting out with Big Tony Onyx. Kash is not happy with this development. Onyx tosses Kash across the ring.

Onyx suplexes Kash and tags in Hunter. Kash starts to get the upper hand. Then, Huffman clotheslines Kash. Kash tags in 2016 KSWA Hall of Famer T Rantula.

T-Rantula gets Huffman in the corner for a series of overhand chops. Huffman fights back with a head butt to T’s chest but the giant isn’t having any of it.

T hits Huffman with another overhand chop and drops him with a big boot. T-Rantula tags in Big Country who hits T with two overhand chops. There’s a suplex from McGraw and a running clothesline.

Kash is in and he puts some shots on Huffman. Then Starr is tagged in. He bodyslams the tag champion. Starr plants him again. Two count.

Kash is in and chops Huffman. He tosses Hunter to the outside. Kash dives over the top and onto Huffman. The Lost Boys drop a double elbow on Huffman. Starr tags in T Rantula. T tosses Huffman into Starr’s corner where Huffman slaps his chest.

Starr forces T in the corner and overhand chops him. Starr takes off his t shirt. T hits Starr with a couple of overhand chops. Then a third drops him.

Out of nowhere, Starr scoops T-Rantula up and body slams him in the center of the ring.

There’s a two count.

Starr rolls into his corner and tags Kash. T-Rantula boots Kash and goes for the pin. He’s up at two.

Kash is forced into the corner where T hits him again.

Starr pulls Kash outside. There’s an overhand chop that moves the table at ringside. McGraw is tagged in. There’s a pin attempt. Kash fights back. But McGraw is too strong. He press slams Kash.

Kash tags McGraw to go after a freshly-tagged Hunter. McGraw tags in Onyx but the referee missed it.

T is tagged in. He attacks a rushing in Onyx. T choke slams Huffman. Onyx is tagged. Op[]\McGraw is tagged in. He slams Onyx. The Lost Boys rush in. Kash covers McGraw for the win. The new KSWA tag team champions are Kris Kash and Shane Starr. 15:40. The Krazies who are familiar with one of the KSWA’s most historic tag teams, go wild!!

KSWA Championship: Jason Gory v. Joshua Kavod

The two foes trade offense.

On the outside, Gory runs Kavod’s hand into the ring post. The champion and challenger trade blows. Gory says, “There’s your champion.” The offense continues. Gory stomps on Kavod’s hand.

Gory gets Kavod in the ropes and attacks him there. Kids at ringside throw snacks at Gory.

Kavod fights back but is kicked in the guts.

Gory catches Kavod when he goes for a flying leg scissors. Kavod reversed the move into a tilt a whirl DDT.

The two spent Megastars trade blows. Kavod forces Mark Charles away from the corner. Kavod goes for a suplex.

Kavod hits Gory with a modified power bomb.

Gory recovers and hits a DDT. There’s a cover and a two and a half count. Gory misses with the stomp.

Gory catches Kavod’s leg and bites his shin. Gory hits a Canadian Destroyer. There’s a two count.

Gory goes to “mist” Kavod, but the champion ducks and the challenger hits referee Mark Charles III directly in the face. Shocked, the always “with it” official pulls out a handkerchief, whips his glasses off and admonishes the rule breaker. Always crafty, Gory goes to strike The Count, but he’s ready. He blocks the punch, supplies a kick to the gut or lower and STUNS Gory! Gory goes flying.

The fans go crazy. Kavod lands Gory with a firm boot to the chin. In 13:55, Kavod win the win and KSWA Championship retention!

 

 

Former Pittsburgh Mayor Peduto Named To KSWA Wrestling Hall Of Fame

Bill Peduto was elected Mayor of the City of Pittsburgh in 2013. Here he holds up the Keystone State Wrestling Alliance (KSWA) Championship. Pittsburgh Tribune Review photo.

By Trapper Tom, Editor, KSWA Digest

On December 5, 2009, then Pittsburgh City Councilman Bill Peduto walked into the Lawrenceville Moose near the corner of 51^st and Butler Streets (which has been dubbed the “KSWA Arena”) for the 5^th annual KSWA FanFest. He had agreed to serve as the ring announcer for the match between rivals Lord Zoltan and Justin Sane.

Pittsburgh's "KSWA Day" in Pittsburgh City Council, 2010. Photos are from KSWA archives.

Peduto presents Lord Zoltan with a proclamation.

A few months later, on February 10, 2010, the lifelong fan of wrestling returned and presented the Keystone State Wrestling Alliance with its first “KSWA Day” commemorating what was then the professional group’s 10th anniversary.

The day was special for everyone involved, as the burgeoning group was starting to hit its stride with a growing number of events, and fans each year. A small group of the KSWA roster—KSWA Owner Bobby O, Lou Martin, Shawn Blanchard, Lord Zoltan and Trapper Tom—went to Pittsburgh City Council and received the proclamation in City Council chambers. Included in the group was Dominic DeNucci, the legendary grappler and vaunted trainer who would soon become just the 5^th member of the KSWA Hall of Fame. He joined a group that includes Frank Durso, “Killer” Joe Abby, Bill Eadie and Donna Christiantello. Peduto was taken aback when DeNucci strode in and exclaimed in open council, “Dominic’s here.”

Dominic DeNucci came to the KSWA Day celebration in Pittsburgh City Council.

The friendship between politico and pro wrestling continued December 3, 2011, when Peduto attended the lighthearted and charitable “roast” of Dominic DeNucci in Green Tree. No one could say anything nasty about DeNucci, and that included Peduto.

The policy maker would grow up not far from Green Tree. He and childhood friend Ron Russitano (KSWA Hall of Fame, Class of 2024) would play with other neighborhood kids and “Studio Wrestling” would be an activity of choice. Ron would call dibs on imitating Bruno; Bill quickly assumed the role of Dominic.

Russitano, who grew up to own a comic bookstore at the old Parkway Center Mall, served as a Pennsylvania State Athletic Commission agent and earned a spot as one of the most well-respected men in both industries. The two remained the best of friends until Russitano’s untimely passing in September 2023.

Peduto continued as a fan of KSWA wrestling and Lord Zoltan. They were friends and when Zoltan was inducted into the KSWA Hall of Fame in 2012; Peduto presented a city council citation recognizing the accomplishment.

With KSWA Hall of Famer Angie Minelli.

When Peduto won the election to be Mayor of Pittsburgh in 2013, Lou Martin and Shawn Blanchard were among those in attendance to help celebrate. In a remarkable moment, as TV and news photojournalists were preparing to set down their tools of the trade, the KSWA Heavyweight Championship was handed to Peduto, and he raised gold into the Pittsburgh night. The cameras suddenly returned, and lights flashed. The next morning, Peduto and Pittsburgh’s championship were front and center on WPXI TV’s morning newscast. At that moment, the KSWA became the city of Pittsburgh’s identified and undisputed professional wrestling organization.

On March 29, 2014, Peduto arrived right before the main event of the Joe Abby Memorial Tournament, threw ticket money at the door, and took a seat next to the ring. He was just in time for the 7^th Annual Joe Abby Memorial Tournament finals between Zoltan and “Dr. Devastation” Lou Martin. When Martin taunted Peduto, he got up into the ring and the two had a tense, albeit lighthearted moment.

That visit included Peduto taking a cell phone picture of the Joe Abby Memorial Tournament trophy and posting it on Twitter. Kris Maher, a Pittsburgh-based writer for the Wall Street Journal saw the photo and wondered, “What is the Mayor of Pittsburgh doing at a pro wrestling event?”

The KSWA would move its home base (temporarily) to the Teamster’s Temple, also in Lawrenceville. On May 31, 2014, Maher and a videographer visited KSWA, took photos and videos and interviewed wrestlers. On June 20, 214, the KSWA was on the front page of the Wall Street Journal, all because of a Mayor’s fun photo.

The job of the Commonwealth’s second largest city is daunting and kept him from attending any live events for a while. However, his attention was still there.

On December 3, 2016, legendary pro wrestling journalist Bill Apter was surprised with induction into the KSWA Hall of Fame for the Class of 2017. Peduto wrote Apter an official letter acknowledging the award.

"NWA Day" in Pittsburgh, 2018.

During KSWA FanFest in 2018, then-National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) World Heavyweight Champion Nick Aldis defended the 10-pounds of Gold against KSWA's former 6-time KSWA Champion. Prior to the event, Mayor Bill Peduto proclaimed it "NWA Day in the City of Pittsburgh." Aldis relayed the news to the owner of the NWA, Billy Corgan. 

On Saturday, February 22, 2020, as part of the KSWA’s historic 20^th anniversary and back at the KSWA Arena, Peduto returned to an overflow crowd and once again to proclaim that day “KSWA Day in the City of Pittsburgh”, this time from the Mayor’s Office. Always affable, Peduto had brought a group of friends, including Russitano, to the anniversary. He would later say that he had friends from the west for the weekend. That day they attended a Pittsburgh Penguin game (the home team lost to the Buffalo Sabers 5-2), had dinner at the Roberto Clemente Museum in Lawrenceville and then swung by the KSWA.

Peduto visits KSWA during the 20th anniversary in 2020.

Peduto called himself “Bike Lane Bill” after his penchant for bicycle safety lanes and had a fun time with his friends and took in cheers and jovial jeers. Weeks later, COVID shut down the world.

On May 15, 2021, under a massive tent provided by the Peduto Administration as a rental to the Langley American Legion Post #496 in Sheraden, the KSWA held its second post-COVID outdoor event (the first was the night prior).

Peduto left the public eye in 2021 but remained an ally to the KSWA and a close friend to many of the Megastars.

Peduto with Yinza, the Pittsburgh Luchadore.

As part of the Joe Abby Memorial Tournament and KSWA Hall of Fame, the Championship Committee is proud to announce that Bill Peduto, former Mayor of the City of Pittsburgh, will be inducted into the Hall of Fame on Saturday, February 12 at the American Legion, Langley Post in Sheraden.

“I’m at a loss for words,” said Peduto as he walked in Frick Park along with his beloved bulldog, Bertha. Peduto joins Russitano, along with the likes of Sammartino, DeNucci, “Battman” Tony Marino, Bobby “Hurricane” Hunt, Angie Minelli, “Mad Dog” Tony Lutz, “The Beast” Ken Cerminara, as well as “Chilly” Bill Cardille and an elite roster of others.

Peduto also finds himself in the distinguished company of “Jumpin’” Johnny DeFazio and Chuck Martoni, politicians and local leaders who served on Allegheny County Council after their wrestling careers ended.

The KSWA Class of 2025, the organization’s final season, includes “King” Del Douglas, multi-time champion and former KSWA Heavyweight Champion J-Ru, the KSWA’s first Heavyweight Champion Skippy Hawke, popular former Heavyweight Champion the Latin Assassin as well as veteran and former tag team champion, Sniper.

The Hall of Fame ceremony takes place on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the American Legion, Langley Post.

KSWA Springdale Slam 6 Audio File

Hi there, KSWA Krazies, Trapper Tom here.

I am experimenting with audio files and here's a preview of this Friday's Springdale Slam see if this works!

KSWA Springdale Slam preview.aup3

KSWA 25TH Anniversary Features Title Change(s), Incredible Main Event

"Rev" Ron Hunt has it out with KSWA Owner Bobby O during the Main Event at the KSWA's 25th Anniversary event. Photo by Tim Steiner.

By Trapper Tom, Editor, KSWA Digest

With all of the pomp and circumstance one might expect, the Keystone State Wrestling Alliance (KSWA) hosted a 25^th anniversary event for the ages. There were upsets, near upsets and one of the greatest Main Events in the history of Pittsburgh’s official professional wrestling organization.

Black Sheep vs. Taylor Grayson and Captain Curly John

A tag team tournament to establish the #1 Contenders for the KSWA tag team champions was held. There were two semi-final matches. In the first, it was “The Black Sheep,” J-Ru and Sin vs. Captain Curly John.

The two teams face off with Grayson and Curly John getting the upper hand early on. They slam the Black Sheep together. They are double slammed and fall to the floor. There’s a battle on the outside before the bell rings.

Shawn Patrick, who came out of retirement to aid with Mark Charles III on the shelf, calls for the bell and the action is all in favor of the Black Sheep. Sin Born has Curly John down until Curly John makes a pivot and cross body block.

Curly slams Sin and goes for the pin but J-Ru breaks it up. The former KSWA Champion is tagged in and he puts the boots to Curly John. Curly fires up and drops J-Ru down. There’s a twist of the leg and a tag to Grayson.

The former Golden Triangle Champion is all over both men as Sin is tagged in. Grayson goes for the pin, but J-Ru gets a shoulder up. Sin goes after Grayson’s arm, and he keeps the pressure on.

Grayson fights out of a suplex and lands three of his own. The Krazies appreciate that series of moves.

Patrick stands over both men and starts a count. They each make it to their respective corners. Curly John kicks both men down but Sin clotheslines Grayson over.

J-Ru spears the Curly one and gets the victory in 7:08.

Post-match: The Black Sheep attack Grayson, focusing on his arm. Then they toss him onto the concrete.

Semi-Final Tag Team #2: The Freek Show: Ram and Justin Sane vs. Kris Kash and Anthony Alexander (w/”King” Del Douglas)

Jimmy James calls for the bell and we’re off. Justin Sane starts off against Kris Kash. The Krazies are a little confused as to who they should align with as both teams are decidedly not fan favorites.

Kash gets Sane down for the first attempted pinfall of the evening. That ends at two.

Sane pump handles Kash’s wrist. Soon thereafter, Sane goes to the top rope for a thunderous Old School crack of the arm.

Kash falls to the outside where he is consoled by Douglas and Alexander. Now the Ram is tagged in and he forces Kash to the corner. The Ram pulls Kash into his corner and for the tag to Sane.

Kash low blows Sane, pulls him into the Dynasty corner and tags in Alexander. Alexander peppers Sane and drops him to the mat. There’s another big right hand that drops Sane. Sane tries to pull himself up but is met with a Double A clothesline.

The Dynasty double team Sane in their corner while the referee is distracted. They put the hurt on Sane until James breaks it up.

Alexander puts a boot to Sane’s neck. A long time ago, they were dear friends and tag team partners. That is long forgotten history.

Douglas attacks Sane from the outside. There’s a slam and Alexander taunts. Then there’s a one-armed bodyslam on Sane.

Alexander continues to choke Sane. Alexander pulls Sane to his corner and a tag to Kash. The one-time Lost Boy is turned inside out buy a out-of-nowhere clothesline from Kash.

Ram is in and clotheslines Kash. Two count. Ram has Kash in a corner for offense.

Ram rakes Kash’s head over the top rope.

Alexander tries to come in but is blocked by the referee. Douglas tells James to “Get Control” of the match.

Ram launches Kash across the ring and into a tag with Alexander.

Finally, after 10 minutes, the two big men are in the ring. There’s a back elbow on Alexander. Then there was a running clothesline on Alexander in the corner.

Sane is tagged in. He’s whipped into the corner and right into Alexander’s boot.

“It’s Over!” shouts Douglas from the outside.

Alexander takes some time, allowing Sane to get up. They are met in the corner. Sane goes for a DDT from the corner. Both Megastars are down.

Douglas pulls The Ram from the apron. Kash meets him there. Alexander hits Sane with a Prime-Time Cancellation for the win. 14:19

Shawn Blanchard (w/”King” Del Douglas) v. Yinza

As a special attraction, John Chamberlin and Rachelle Rennebeck from the “Ya Jagoff” show on KDKA radio were the special guest referees. The bell rings and it’s Shawn Blanchard vs. Yinza

The bell rings and Yinza gets the crowd into a frenzy. Yinza arm drags Blanchard down. The veteran comes back and back elbows Yinza down.

Blanchard pokes Yinza in the eyes. Blanchard gets Yinza down in a seated position and digs at his face. Referee Shawn Patrick admonishes the former 6-time KSWA Champion for his infractions.

Yinza fights back with fists to the midsection, followed by shoulder blocks. Blanchard is in the corner and Yinza follows for an elbow.

Blanchard goes to the top turnbuckle and is tossed down. There’s a two count and a kick up. Blanchard misses a clotheslines. Yinza hits a stunner. Blanchard gets a boot on the bottom rope and Shawn Patrick sees it.

Douglas attacks Yinza from the outside and he falls into Blanchard’s clutches. Blanchard DDTs Yinza for the win. 7:48

BROhemoth vs. Big Country Matt McGraw

The two super heavyweights meet in the center of the ring. They lock up and then quickly let go. They lock up again and meet another stalemate. They lock up a third time and go round and round. It’s rare that either of these Megastars have an equal physical threat.

They meet with a double shoulder block. And then another. Neither man gives an inch. BRO hits a forearm. And it’s Country who gets BROhemoth down with a shoulder block. BROhemoth falls to the outside.

They meet on the outside. And brawl. Both men hit heavy shots. BROhemoth grabs two chairs. And sets them down. They share a drink and then resume slapping each other.

Once back inside, the two are spent. BRO misses with a splash. McGraw hits a spear but only gets a two count.

BROhemoth hits McGraw with a spear. Both men are down.

While on his knees, McGraw swings up at BROhemoth. There are big, heavy shots. There are head butts and heavier shots.

Jimmy James is knocked down. He calls for a double disqualification at 9:18.

McGraw levels a challenge to BROhemoth for another match.

Golden Triangle Championship: Freek E. Doyle (w/Mayor Mystery) v. Daniel Exotic

Referee Shawn Patrick listens as Doyle shouts at the crowd. Doyle pushes Exotic into a corner. Exotic fires back with a huge chop to the chest.

The two continue to battle but cannot get a decided edge. Exotic goes behind Doyle, picks him up and plants him on the mat. There’s a front face lock as the Krazies start to chant, “Daniel. Daniel!” He turns that into a Tiger Roll. Freek is disoriented and goes to the corner.

Mayor Mystery pulls Exotic down from behind.

Doyle has Exotic in the ropes. Mayor Mystery attacks from the outside. Exotic has a hard time catching his breath.

Doyle hits Exotic with a clothesline and drops him down for a hip attack.

Doyle pulls a chain out of his trunks and chokes Exotic. Exotic does fight back but Doyle catches him for a full Nelson power bomb. Doyle kicks him in the chest.

Mayor Mystery attacks Exotic from the outside as Freek has Patrick distracted.

There’s a modified DDT but only a two count as Exotic gets a shoulder up.

Mystery chokes Exotic again on the outside.

Doyle clotheslines Exotic. There’s a short-armed clothesline and a kick up. Doyle continues with the offense.

A loud, “Daniel!” chant erupts from the crowd. He rolls out of a move. There are back elbows.

Exotic misses with a splash. He dives off the top onto Exotic.

There’s a modified DDT. Doyle gets a boot on the bottom rope. Mayor Mystery goes to the apron.

Exotic catches Doyle. Doyle reverses it, DDTs Exotic for the win. 12:15. For much of the mat it looked as if Exotic had Doyle’s number and it wouldn’t be out of the question for a title change to occur.

 An Officer and a Gentleman vs. New Glory

Officer Dan Murphy brought a sign reading “New Glory Equals Old Champs.” Tony Onyx tore it up.

A “New Glory” chant erupts in the opening moments. “Officer” Dan Murphy once again blows his omnipresent whistle. Huffman has Morris down in the opening moments of the mat in a front face lock.

Morris misses a move and Huffman drags him down in the center of the canvas. Referee Jimmy James checks on both Megastars as they roll on the mat.

Murphy shouts, “That’s textbook wrestling” at Onyx. Morris will not give up. Morris gets Huffman in a leg scissor but he immediately breaks from it. Huffman drops Morris with a shoulder block.

Huffman leaps over Morris and gets him down. Onyx is tagged in and he and and Huffman double suplex Morris.

After a while Morris, the veteran, comes back and gets offense on Morris.

The referee is distracted, and Murphy comes in and attacks Huffman, most notably with a bodyslam.

Morris is tagged back in even though there was no initial tag. Morris hovers over Huffman and then taunts Onyx into the ring.

Morris drops elbows on Huffman. He goes for the pin but Hunter gets a shoulder up.

Murphy attacks from the apron. It’s 8 minutes in the match and Murphy is finally tagged in. Onyx has hardly been in the contest.

Murphy drops a big elbow on Huffman and Morris is tagged back in.

Murphy tried to bodyslam Morris onto Huffman, but the tag champ rolled out of danger.

Murphy falls over the top rope and onto the floor. Huffman tries to go for Onyx, but Murphy has pulled him down.

Murphy drops Huffman and Onyx makes the save. An Officer and a Gentleman attack Huffman while the referee puts Onyx back on the apron.

A USA chant rings through the crowd. Murphy tosses Morris at Huffman but he gets out of the way.

Huffman cannot get to Onyx.

Huffman finally gets to Onyx and the packed room erupts. He drops both men. Onyx spears Murphy. Morris is on the top turnbuckle.

New Glroy drops Morris for the win in 13:04.

KSWA Five Star Championship: Man-Child (w/Mayor Mystery) vs. Shane Starr (w/Commander Don Scholz)

Referee Shawn Patrick hoists the Five Star Championship in the night air. Starr gets a clap started and the two men meet in the center of the ring.

There’s a time in which Man-Child has Starr on the ropes. Don Scholz steals Mayor Mystery’s cane from him as he attempts to get to the ring.

That doesn’t stop him from choking Starr with the bottom rope. Man-Child continues the offense on Starr.

There’s a snap mare and Starr continues to fight out of it.

Man-Child attempts a lazy pin by standing and then stepping on Starr.

Man-Child swats at Starr. There’s a clothesline attempt and then another and a third.

Man-Child catches and suplexes Starr. There’s a two count.

Starr battles up and whips Man-Child into a corner. There’s a series of splashes, a miss and then Man-Child’s splash.

He misses. Starr goes for a Sharpshooter.

Doyle goes for the cane. Doyle hits Man-Child with the cane. Shane Starr makes the pin and is the new Five Star Champion. 7:41

Five Star Championship: Starr (champion) vs. J-Ru

Post Match: The Freek Show attacks Starr and Scholz. Starr is laid out. At one point, Man-Child splashes Scholz in the corner.  J-Ru rushes out with a referee of his own and cashes in the Five Star Championship and pins a defeated Shane Starr in three seconds to become the new Five Star Champion.

Jason Gory and Ron Hunt vs. Lou Martin and Joshua Kavod

The former KSWA tag team champions, Kavod and Hunt, the Apex, start off. Hunt, with a new attitude, is not favorable to his old chap.

Hunt is wearing an “Apex” t-shirt, while Martin is wearing his throw-back “garbage pants.”

Now it’s Gory and Martin. They lock up and Martin slams his head into the top turnbuckle. Then they go across the ring. Then into the corner with Kavod. But Gory breaks out.

Now it’s Kavod and the #1 Contender Gory. They face off and Gory wins initially with a shoulder block.

Kavod leg scissors Gory down and onto the mat. Kavod misses an elbow and lands his own flying leg scissors.

They catch each other’s legs and then break off. Kavod tags Martin but Hunt isn’t ready to tag in. Martin drops Gory and goes after his leg. Martin lands a splash while Gory is placed on the middle rope.

There’s a leg drop and one count on the winner of Battle Bowl.

Martin clotheslines Gory and hits another. Martin goes to drop Gory with a side slam but Gory fights and bites back.

Hunt rallies against KSWA Owner Bobby O at ringside. Hunt is in and rakes the back of Martin.

Hunt goes after Kavod on the apron. Jimmy James is distracted and Gory and Hunt go after Martin in the center of the ring.

With Martin on the mat, Hunt screams, “Where’s your face of Pittsburgh now?!

Hunt tries to pin Martin, but he kicks up at two.

Hunt slams Martin’s head into Gory’s boot in the corner.

Martin sunset flips Gory in the center of the ring. Both Megastars are down.

Gory gets to Hunt, Martin to Kavod.

Kavod clotheslines Hunt, drop kicks Gory. He dives over the top rope but Hunt catches and spikes him down.

Double clothesline in the middle of the ring with Gory and Martin. Kavod strikes Hunt who is on the apron.

Kavod kicks Hunt down. Kavod dives on the outside and onto Hunt. Gory pulls Martin down from the apron. He goes to punch Martin but hits the ring post.

Kavod and Hunt are back on the inside. Hunt his Kavod with a Canadian Destroyer.

Kavod kicks up at 2.5. Hunt catches the referee. Kavod goes to kick Hunt but he ducks and James gets it.

Kavod “Goes to Church” on Hunt. Hits a cutter. The referee is still down.

Shawn Patrick is in the ring. Kavod mists Martin in the face.

The Face of Pittsburgh is kicked to the outside.

Hunt hits Kavod with a chair. Jimmy is still down.

Shawn Patrick goes onto the apron to try and figure things out. Kavod puts a prone Kavod on a steel chair. He jumps onto it and pins Kavod in 15:44.

Post-Match, Gory hoists the KSWA Championship into the night.

The Gigabyte Grizzly Returns To KSWA This Saturday At the 25th Annual Event

 

By Trapper Tom, Editor, KSWA Digest

Very few Megastars had the impact of BROhemoth. From his very first attempt at the Keystone State Wrestling Alliance (KSWA) tag team championship as one-half of the Big Game Hunters in 2017, BROhemoth has been a feared…loved…and feared again Megastar.

The large and menacing athlete presented then-KSWA Heavyweight Champion Mitch Napier most intense challenge at Brawl Under the Bridge in Homestead back in 2017. It’s a moment that’s still talked about, the erstwhile champion hoisting the challenger up and over for the Sioux Falls Slam. The collective “gasp” of the crowd as the Herculean move flashed under the Homestead Grays Bridge.

BROhemoth was undaunted. He defeated Gino Slice in quick fashion, leading up to the Main Event at KSWA FanFest at the KSWA Arena on December 2, 2017. It was a difficult challenge for Napier; however, he was once again able to defeat his most determined challenger.

In February 2018, BROhemoth’s---and the KSWA Krazies’—fortunes changed. “The Gavel” David Lawless had won Battle Bowl one month prior, and he was one-half of “Lawless and Order” with Dan Murphy. At the conclusion of the Napier/Murphy Main Event, the dastardly duo attacked the KSWA Champion. Then they called their “backup” the Gigabyte Grizzly. But instead of helping Lawless and Order, BROhemoth came to the aid of Napier and the Krazies lost their collective minds.

For the very first time, BROhemoth tagged with Napier to form what would later become “The Best Bros Around” tag team. They lost their first matchup against Lawless and Order, but a statement was being made.

A week later, BROhemoth defeated both men in a Handicap Match.

For weeks and months to come, BROhemoth was a part of the biggest matches in the KSWA. He tagged with Napier and Yinza and defeated the VIPs—Lou Martin, Shawn Blanchard and Tommy Faime—and bested Martin in an Ambulance match in his hometown of Verona.

Lawless had defeated Napier for the KSWA Championship and BROhemoth challenged for the most coveted title in the Commonwealth on September 23, 2018 in Lawrenceville. While he did not defeat the Gavel, BROhemoth highlighted several matches throughout the year.

During FanFest of that year, BROhemoth defeated then-Five Star Champion Bubba the Bulldog, albeit by disqualification.

In February 2019, then-KSWA Champion Dennis Gregory pushed back BROhemoth’s challenge.

At the time, BROhemoth was tagging with the legendary T-Rantula, battling alongside “Big Country” Matt McGraw and many of the KSWA fan favorites. The opportunities stemming back to his very first chance for a tag team championship mean that the KSWA Championship Committee had high hopes for the big man.

BROhemoth won the prestigious Joe Abby Memorial Tournament in the finals against Lawless.

In April 2019 he reconnected with Napier and the men started on a meteoric rise. They defeated Lawless and Order and then the next month uprooted the KSWA tag team championship from the VIPs—Blanchard and Faime. “The Best Bros” had reached the top of Pennsylvania’s tag team mountain.

They would successfully defend against “King” Del Douglas and “Rev” Ron Hunt, including a memorable defense at Brawl Under the Bridge.

In August 2019, “The Best Bros” would lose the titles to Blanchard and Martin’s VIPs before reclaiming the gold two weeks later during the Ambulance Match at Cribbs Field in Verona but would lose them to Blanchard and Martin a week later.

 BROhemoth won some singles matches, but had more victories alongside Napier. The two would win tag team gold once again at FanFest in 2019.

The duo would hold onto tag team gold during the COVID shut down in 2020 and lost the belts to their friends…the Renegades…Yinza and McGraw in early 2021. After losing the titles, an enraged BROhemoth turned on his friend Napier, setting up one of the most intense feuds of 2021.

The two returned to the Homestead Grays Bridge for a Kendo Stick match that Napier brought home with the victory.  

BROhemoth also battled “The Face of Pittsburgh” Lou Martin in a series of contests and challenge then-KSWA Champion “Double A” Anthony Alexander for the title.

BROhemoth would then team up with “King” Del Douglas for a number of contests and faired well in a “tag team gauntlet” match at FanFest.

Beginning in 2022, BROhemoth turned his attention in a direction; however, with the KSWA in its 25^th and final campaign, he has returned.

BROhemoth is set to face off against the formidable “Big Country” Matt McGraw this Saturday, February 22 at the Sheraden American Legion during the KSWA 25^th Anniversary.

The KSWA 25^th Anniversary event is sponsored by South Hills Financial Group. The first 250 fans in attendance will receive a commemorative KSWA 25th Anniversary plastic cup courtesy of our friends at South Hills Financial Group (Rich Dalzotto).

Lou Martin To Once Again "Celebrity Bartend For Charity"

 

By Trapper Tom, Editor, KSWA Digest

“The Face of Pittsburgh” will once again represent the Pittsburgh professional wrestling scene as he serves as a guest bartender for the Partners for Quality “Celebrity Bartending Fundraiser” on Pittsburgh’s North Shore.

Lou Martin debuted at this star-studded fundraiser in 2024, and helped raise money for one of the Keystone State Wrestling Alliance’s favorite charities.

This year, Martin will pour alongside friend and former Pittsburgh Pirates turned broadcaster Michael McKendry, as well as the Voice of the Pirates Greg Brown. Tall Cathy from 96.1 KISS FM, Jeff Hatthorn from 93.7 The Fan, and Timira Rush of KDKA Radio and Kelly Dzanaj from KDKA TV and Star 100.7 FM will also be on hand.

Legends like Paul Alexander, Bob Pompeani, and Guy Junker will also serve up drinks for the fundraiser. Sally Wiggin and sports stars Jenna Harner, Shelby Cassesse and Hannah Mears have also been inked to pour.

Partners for Quality is a family of nonprofit organizations supporting persons with intellectual disabilities, autism and behavioral health challenges for more than 40 years. Many of those who reside at their McKees Rocks facility are routine KSWA Krazies.

On Tuesdays, bartenders at Mike's Beer Bar and North Shore Tavern will collect tips for the charity from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Martin says he is looking forward to this event, as Partners for Quality has been near and dear to his heart for years. Plus, fans may never know what other KSWA Megastars may be in attendance for this fun event.

There’s free admission to the event but bring cash for drinks and charity.

Gory Returns To Win Battle Bowl XVI, Goes After Kavod; Hunt Turns On Martin

After winning the final Battle Bowl, Jason Gory (l) goes to shake KSWA Champion Joshua Kavod's hand. Photo by Tim Steiner.

By Trapper Tom, Editor, KSWA Digest

The Keystone State Wrestling Alliance’s final campaign started on January 11 with Battle Bowl XVI. There were also a number of other issues to rectify, such as the fate of Joshua Kavod’s first title defense, as well as the other singles titles. But more importantly for Battle Bowl…who would participate, debut or return?

Five Star Championship: Man-Child (champion) with Mayor Mystery v. Yinza

Man-Child with Mayor Mystery vs. Yinza the Pittsburgh Luchador is the first match of the evening and new year. Yinza won this opportunity at FanFest in December. The Five Star Championship is on the line as referee Mark Charles III checks both men. Mayor Mystery wants every Krazy with a Steelers jersey to be ejected from the facility. KSWA Owner Bobby O puts a firm “NO” on that request.

Yinza arrives. Photo courtesy of Nels Cleath.

Mayor Mystery leads Man-Child to the ring. Photo courtesy of Nels Cleath.

The bell starts and Yinza has a temporary advantage before being caught and carried by the Five Star Champion. Yinza clotheslines Man-Child but only forces him into the corner. Yinza is able to post Man-Child’s head into the top turnbuckle of the four corner posts; however, the big man is non-plussed.

Mayor Mystery had asked that all fans wearing Steelers shirts to be tossed into the Sheraden night air. KSWA Owner Bobby O said no.

Yinza goes for a sunset flip, but Man-Child catches him. Man-Child sits down but Yinza gets out of the way.

Yinza tries to kick Man-Child down but he gets nowhere. There was a head butt, but Yinza goes down.

A “Let’s Go Yinza” chant goes down. Man-Child powerslams Yinza down and gets a two count. Yinza’s throat is placed over the middle rope and it’s all Mayor Mystery on the outside. Yinza gets a shoulder up on a pin attempt.

Yinza and Man-Child battle as referee Mark Charles III tries to understand what he's seeing. Photo by Tim Steiner.

Yinza is set in corner, and he receives a couple of big, big butt splashes in the corner. Yinza is pulled out in the center of the ring and Man-Child doesn’t go for the pin, instead pinches a shoulder.

Yinza gets his breath back and goes after Man-Child. There’s a drop kick on Man-Child.

Suddenly and without provocation, Shawn Blanchard comes out to distract Yinza. He is successful. Man-Child splashes Yinza and gets the pin. 6:42.

Blanchard continues to stare down Yinza as Mayor Mystery celebrates with the Five Star Champion. Mark Charles III keeps the veteran Megastars apart.

Six Man Tag Team: The Ram, Sin and Justin Sane vs.
Hunter Huffman, Matt McGraw and T-Rantula

The Krazies got crazy for the team of Huffman, McGraw and T-Rantula.

Before the match can begin, Justin Sane had taken off with the game-time gavel. The fans chant “T” as the Hall of Famer is in there first with Sin. He quickly tags in Justin Sane. Sane avoids the one-man monolith as long as he can. Justin tries for a Test-of-Strength before realizing that won’t work.

Sane bails to the outside and grabs a steel chair. He tosses that in, unfolds in and stands on it for a test of strength. T simply pushes him off in a loud heap. T uses the chair and wallops Sane, all while the ref’s back is turned. Huffman is tagged in, and he goes for the quick tag. That doesn’t work as Sane kicks up.

Huffman goes for the wrist lock but Sane bites him, breaking the hold. Huffman falls into his own corner for The Ram and Sin to uses boots and fists. Referee Jimmy James is distracted. Ram is in and keeps Huffman down.

How it ended for Justin Sane (l) and T-Rantula. Photo by Zac Weiss

How the "Test of Strength" began. Photo courtesy of Zac Weiss.

Ram head butts Huffman and draws the ire of McGraw. Sin is tagged in and it’s his turn to kick Huffman. There’s a shoulder block. Sin hip tosses Huffman and tags Sane. He hits and impressive Canadian Destroyer on Huffman. Huffman gets a shoulder up at 2 ½. Huffman kicks Sane and tags in a fresh McGraw. He comes in with a force, punching and slamming all three foes.

There’s a double overhand chop on Sin by McGraw before T is tagged in. He continues the offense with an overhand chop on Sin. He goes after Sane and knees him in the head.

T-Rantula boots Sane and here comes Huffman. He gets a two count before Sin breaks it up.

Sane pokes Huffman in the eyes. Sin is tagged in, and he knocks Huffman down with a firm right hand.

Sin hits a victory roll on Huffman but only gets a two count. A “USA, USA” chant rings out for Huffman. T-Rantula is tagged back in, and he chops Sin and throws him outside.

Hunter Huffman took an inadvertent trip to Nacho City. Photo by Tim Steiner.

T follows and goes for Nacho City. He shouts and swings away. Sin ducks and Huffman catches the plate of nachos and cheese full on.

Inside the ring, Sin and T go at it but T gets the upper hand and slams Sin down for the win. 10:15. All is right with Huffman and T after the win.

Your six-man winners: Hunter Huffman, T-Rantula and Matt McGraw with referee Jimmy James. Photo by Tim Steiner.

Harley T. Morris v. Tyler Grayson

The two Megastars start with Morris in the lead, but Grayson gets back into it. Grayson shoulder blocks Harley down and into a headlock.

Harley T. Morris. Photo by Nels Cleath.

Harley does get some momentum, but Grayson is quick to scoop him up and slam him down.

There’s a head scissors and into another down-on-the-mat situation. Harley recovers and clotheslines Grayson down. There’s a leg drop, elbow drop and knee drop. Morris goes for a pin, but Grayson kicks up.

A “Harley Sucks” chant is loud. He doubles down on the offense, keeping Grayson on the mat. Grayson starts to fight back up. The fans are behind him.

Harley T. Morris has Tyler Grayson in a leg scissors. Photo by Tim Steiner.

There’s a toe drop hold, and Morris goes head-first into the top turnbuckle.

Grayson chops and kicks Morris, he follows with a drop kick. There’s an elbow and series of them. Two count on Grayson.

Morris has Grayson in a leg scissors and he pulls the bottom rope for leverage. Mark Charles III is keen on the Count. Grayson blocks a punch and the two go at it in the center of the ring with fists and kicks.

Grayson gets Morris down and continues with a punch, chop and stunner. That doesn’t fall Morris, but a DDT does. Grayson splashes him in the corner. Grayson is ready to pounce.

Morris avoids in lands a slingshot into the ropes and a famouser for the win. 9:38.

Golden Triangle Championship: Champion Freek E. Doyle (w/Mayor Mystery)
vs. Shane Starr with Commander Don Scholz

The fans chant “Kinky Doyle” as the bell rings. It’s all Starr at the beginning as he tosses the Golden Triangle Champion around the ring. Starr drops legs on a fallen Doyle. There’s a suplex and a pin attempt that was covered one second too soon.

Starr easily drops Doyle again with a slam. Doyle avoids another and pokes Starr in the eye. Doyle gets Starr down and flops on him. Doyle tosses Starr to the outside. That’s where Mayor Mystery is. He attacks Starr but is quickly scared off by Scholz. Doyle chokes Starr but breaks the illegal maneuver at three.

Starr gets Doyle down and nearly gets him into a cross face, but Doyle gets to the ropes. He uses that advantage to keep Starr grounded. Starr drops Doyle and attempts the Sharpshooter, but it kicked off.

Scholz pounds the mat and leads a chant for “Shane.” Doyle ushers him across the ring and into the middle rope. That’s where Mayor Mystery pokes him with his cane.

Starr battles up but Doyle pulls him down by his hair. Doyle drops a knee on Starr. Doyle has Starr in the corner and clotheslines him there.

Referee Jimmy James checks on Freek E. Doyle as he is in Shane Starr's Sharpshooter. Photo by Tim Steiner.

Doyle has Starr down and goes for the pin. That ends at two. Starr schoolboys Doyle and nearly gets the win.

Doyle, out of nowhere, hits a sit-down power bomb and gets the two count.

Doyle gets Starr in the corner for a couple of splashes, but Starr muscles him over on the third attempt. From the corner, Starr hits a superplex and the Krazies explode in appreciation.

Both Megastars are down. Two count before Doyle gets a shoulder up. Starr drops Doyle and follows up with a super kick. Starr goes for the Sharpshooter and lands it. Mayor Mystery distracts him. Starr punches Mystery and Doyle wallops Starr with Mystery’s cane.

Freek E Doyle retains over Shane Starr. Photo by Tim Steiner.

The winner and still Golden Triangle Champion: Freek E. Doyle.

KSWA Heavyweight Championship: Lou Martin vs. Joshua Kavod

Referee Mark Charles III calls for the bell and we are off. The two Megastars share a friendly handshake before locking up. Both men of similar size and strength. Kavod forces Martin in the corner and there’s a clean break. They run around the ring and lock up again.

There’s another clean break. Martin misses a clothesline attempt and that allows Kavod to scoop slam the former champion and kick him about.

New KSWA Champion Joshua Kavod. Photo by Nels Cleath.

Charles baseball slides and gets a two count. Martin rolls Kavod up gets a two count and then a clothesline. That rattles the KSWA Champion.

Martin scoops Kavod and drops a leg. Two count. The two Megastars go back and forth. Martin pulls Kavod’s arms back and strikes from time to time. Kavod fights up and kicks Martin down. Two count.

Kavod punches Martin into a corner. There’s a running splash. And then another attempt in another corner. Martin gets Kavod and pounds his head into the top turnbuckle and follows with an overhand chop in all four corners.

There’s a bulldog and a two count before Kavod gets a shoulder up.

Martin says he’s “going up” to the corner for his patented dive, but Kavod gets up and European forearms him. Kavod follows but Martin kicks him off. Kavod lands a superplex from the top rope.

Both men are up at four and start swinging.

Lou Martin applies the Death Certificate to Joshua Kavod. Photo by Zac Weiss.

Kavod hits a springboard cutter but only gets two. Martin remains resilient. Kavod is up in the corner and goes for the curb stomp.

Martin latches on the Death Certificate and nearly gets the win. He goes for another. Kavod hits Go to Church for the win. 8:00

Kavod shakes Martin’s hand and leaves the Three Time, Former KSWA Champion in the ring. Martin asks for the microphone.

Martin says, “Great Job, Josh. I’m still ‘The Face of Pittsburgh,’ and the ‘Face of the Company.” He promises to have KSWA Heavyweight Gold again soon!

Surprisingly, the Rev Ron Hunt comes to celebrate with Martin. He says Martin is the “Face of Pittsburgh.”

After the match, Ron Hunt turns on Lou Martin. Photo by Tim Steiner.

Hunt seethes. Photo by Zac Weiss.

Hunt goes back for more on Martin. Photo by Zac Weiss.

The two share a moment; then out of nowhere, Hunt clothesline Martin down! “It’s MY time now!” Hunt exclaims! He walks away from the former KSWA Champion, but then goes back to attack him again before leaving.

Battle Bowl XVI

The rules of Battle Bowl are simple. Two Megastars start the match and wrestle for two minutes. After that initial two minutes, a Megastar is introduced every minute. The only way to be eliminated is to be thrown over the top rope and both feet touch the floor. The final three wrestlers in the ring are guaranteed a shot at a singles title for the rest of 2025. A raffle determines what opportunity the challenger receives.

The Leader of the Grayson Nation, Tyler Grayson and the Devil’s Favorite Disciple Sin start out. Sin is all over Grayson in the early seconds.

Sin buries a shoulder in Grayson, but the Leader of the Grayson Nation comes back. Grayson continues to beat on Sin.

Super Ginger is in next! He goes right after Sin! He and Grayson clothesline Sin.

Captain Curly John is next. He races in and joins in on the attack on Sin. Super Ginger stands on Grayson’s back and falls into Sin.

J-Ru returns. Photo by Zac Weiss.

T-Rantula beat up on "King" Del Douglas as Tyler Grayson recoils. Photo by Zac Weiss.

T-Rantula is choked by Shawn Blanchard. Photo by Zac Weiss.

Man-Child clubs La Lucha. Photo by Tim Steiner.

Sin misses an Irish Whip on Super Ginger. Super Ginger is the first to be eliminated.

Freek E. Doyle is next. He just sits on the outside as the others fight.

Captain Curly John has been eliminated.

The next man out is Hunter Huffman, who is one-half of the KSWA tag team champions. Doyle hurls Grayson at Huffman as soon as he hits the ring.

Daniel Exotic, who hails from a Tiger Sanctuary in Missouri, makes his KSWA debut. He goes after Doyle and others once he hits the ring.

Exotic and Sin go after one another. Huffman and Exotic double team and suplex Sin.

Grayson takes the risky move of climbing to the top rope and hitting Sin with a frog splash. However, that goes well for Grayson, and he is not dumped from the top rope.

The Hall of Famer, T-Rantula is out and ready for action. The Krazies are pumped to see the big man. T-Rantula boots Doyle and chops the bare-chested Exotic. Grayson and T take turns chopping Exotic as a way of welcoming the young man to the KSWA.

Jesse Lawhead, a young man who isn’t well known to the KSWA universe, is out next. He enters the ring and makes the mistake of turning around and being hit with a clothesline by T-Rantula. It was a clothesline that Lawhead’s ancestors would feel.

Sin is tossed out and eliminated. Lawhead didn’t fare well, either.

“The Drunken Luchador” Joey Quervo makes a Battle Bowl appearance. He enters the fray.

One minute later, Man-Child hits the ring. He and T-Rantula will have a stare down for the ages.

Daniel Exotic is eliminated.

T-Rantula holds out a hand to Man-Child but jukes him. The two biggest men in the KSWA are in the center of the ring.

Shawn Blanchard, apparently still dressed in street clothes, makes his way to the ring. Immediately, he pokes Grayson in the eye. Then he starts on Huffman. T-Rantula stops that small rampage with a chop to the chest.

Huffman is eliminated.

The legendary Hall of Famer, La Lucha, makes a Battle Bowl showing. The semi-retired former KSWA Champion and one-time KSWA Heavyweight Champion goes right after long-time foe Shawn Blanchard.

Out next is another veteran KSWA stalwart: “King” Del Douglas. With unrivaled royalty, “The King” walks right into T-Rantula. Douglas is wearing black slacks and a matching button up shirt. T-Rantula tears that shirt open and clobbers The King.

The fans erupt as Shane Starr is the next on the scene. He goes right after Freek and Man-Child.

In a dramatic turn of events, La Lucha eliminates Shawn Blanchard over the top rope and onto the floor below.

Kris Kash, the former KSWA Champion and “Lost Boy” along with Shane Starr, returns to the organization for Battle Bowl. Once inside the squared circle, he goes right after his long-time, former friend, Shane Starr.

T-Rantula is eliminated.

Kash eliminates La Lucha.

One half of the Mercenaries and a former tag team champion, Sniper, is out next.

Kash pokes Grayson in the eyes and nearly eliminates Starr.

Incredibly, the duo Sam and Stan Squatch make their annual return to Battle Bowl.

Sam Squatch made his annual Battle Bowl appearance. Photo by Zac Weiss.

As did Stan Squatch. 

Freek E. Doyle is eliminated.

Stan Squatch barely gets into the action before he is eliminated.

Kash, who made a bit of a statement, is eliminated.

Jason Gory makes his return to the KSWA. He gets involved in the action.

A minute later, “Big Country” Matt McGraw is out of the locker room and in the ring.

Sam Squatch is eliminated.

“Rev” Ron Hunt, already with a new attitude, is out next.

McGraw goes after Hunt as soon as he steps inside the ring.

Harley T. Morris enters and hits Grayson with a low blow.

Former heavyweight Champion, J-Ru, returns after a long time away. He and Hunt go after Grayson.

Grayson answers with a super kick to Hunt.

J-Ru uses his forehead to ram Grayson in the back of the head.

Gory is battling everyone in the ring, including Morris.

The Manager of Champions and Mayor of Parts Unknown, Mayor Mystery is out next. He oftentimes makes a Battle Bowl appearance. He takes his time getting in the ring.

And the final entrant is Yinza, the Pittsburgh Luchador!

Sane is eliminated.

Yinza tries to talk with Hunt, to no avail.

Grayson, who had been in since the beginning, was eliminated.

Each of the Megastars battle and are eliminated.

Starr is eliminated by Morris. Hunt is eliminated by Gory and J-Ru.

Morris, J-Ru and Gory are the final three.

Jason Gory is the winner of Battle Bowl XVI. Photo by Nels Cleath.

Jason Gory smiles. Photo by Zac Weiss.

In 39 minutes, Morris and J-Ru are eliminated and Jason Gory wins the Final Battle Bowl.

KSWA Champion Joshua Kavod, who knows Gory, comes to the ring and extends a hand. Gory takes it before spitting blood in Kavod’s face! He attacks Kavod and leaves him in the center of the ring, all the while celebrating his incredible win.