Portland Wrestling Revival Faces Collapse Amid Controversy adn Competition
Teh planned “Portland Wrestling: Reborn” event, slated for August 23rd in Vancouver, washington, is teetering on the brink of cancellation following a tumultuous week.Initially, the show aimed to revitalize a beloved regional wrestling brand, but a planned appearance by controversial figure Joey Ryan has triggered a cascade of issues.
Ryan,absent from the wrestling scene since 2020 due to allegations of sexual assault and harassment during the #SpeakingOut movement,was booked for the event. However, that appearance is now off the table. The promotion swiftly announced the cancellation of Ryan’s travel arrangements, stating he will no longer be appearing.This decision, however, hasn’t resolved the situation. In fact, it appears to have exacerbated it.The promoter behind the Portland Wrestling revival alleges a coordinated effort to sabotage the show.
Specifically, they claim Prestige Wrestling, another Pacific Northwest promotion, threatened to ostracize anyone involved with the “Reborn” event.This alleged “blackballing” tactic reportedly led to wrestlers withdrawing from the card and even the cancellation of ring rental. “We currently do not have a ring for a show taking place in less than three weeks,” the promoter stated.
A Direct Challenge Emerges
Adding fuel to the fire, Prestige Wrestling scheduled a competing event in Portland on the same night, August 23rd. Their show is positioned as a direct response,emphasizing “a night of safe space pro-wrestling action,for the scene,by the scene.” Notably, tickets are offered on a pay-what-you-want basis, with all proceeds going to charity.
The rationale Behind the Initial Booking
You might be wondering why Joey Ryan was booked in the first place. The Portland Wrestling promoter explained their reasoning, citing several factors. He was affordable, hadn’t wrestled in the area for a decade, and local talent expressed interest in working with him. Furthermore, the promoter saw it as an chance for ryan to move beyond a previous character they personally disliked.
What Dose This Mean for Fans?
Currently, tickets for the “Portland Wrestling: Reborn” show remain available for purchase, despite the very real possibility of cancellation. If you’ve already purchased tickets, it’s advisable to stay tuned for official updates from the promotion.
This situation highlights the complex dynamics within the independent wrestling world. It underscores the importance of accountability, the power of collective action, and the challenges of reviving a brand while navigating sensitive issues. Ultimately, the future of “Portland wrestling: Reborn” hangs in the balance, dependent on whether the promotion can overcome these notable obstacles.