I firmly believe this will be the greatest and biggest show in CLASH Wrestling history! I also believe there’s no better way to grow anticipation for the biggest event ever than by looking back at the events that got us to this point. So return your chairs to their upright and locked position, put away your tray tables, and turn off all electronic devises (except for the one you are using to read this) because today we’re looking at the top events in CLASH history as we go Pillar to Post.

#4: 3rd Annual Triple Crown Cup (March 28, 2010)
Like 100, Triple Crown Cup was a night of shock and surprises. It also has the distinction of featuring the first ever womens match in CLASH Wrestling history. The show had some great matches on it and the Triple Crown Cup has been a respected and distinguished honor in CLASH.

Then: Truth Martini belittled Mena Libra’s victory and said that women had no place in CLASH Wrestling.
Now: At 100, Truth Martini will be giving a “State of CLASH” address. What he has to say is anyone’s guess, but I’m sure it will be a major shake-up.

#3: The Future is Unwritten (October 23, 2010)
The Future is Unwritten is a great example of what CLASH wrestling is: entertainment from start to end. There were many great matches, engaging moments like the “rebirth” of William J. O’Malley and even a CLASH Wrestling costume contest that I should have won!

Then: Tommy Treznik defeated Dave Manzo. Despite the loss, the match was a turning point for the “Swagg Starr” and pushed him to new levels of success.
Then: Hakeem Zane picked up a tag win for his team, before being attacked by Ded Vaughn.
Now: At 100, both men are looking for a better night, but only one can walk out victorious as Zane takes on Manzo.

Then: Will Vendetta retired and William J. O’Malley was introduced.
Then: “The Elder Statesman” Gideon Malice came up short against Cameron Skyy.
Now: At 100, O’Malley and Malice (Sons Of Sanity) will be teaming with a mystery partner to take on the CLASH Wrestling Super Squad of the Power Rangers and Marvelocity.

#2: NPCI 2008 Tournament (June 14, 2008)
The 2008 NPCI sent a message about CLASH wrestling. It said, loudly and clearly, that CLASH wrestling will feature the best tag team action in the midwest. Interestingly, this show featured a taste of things to come as it saw Tyler Elkins take on Cameron Skyy in an effort to become CLASH Champion. This event also marked the formation of The H3RD.

Then: Skyy Defeated Elkins to retain the CLASH Championship.
Now: Skyy and Elkins both look to get back into the title picture. Skyy can do so by defeating Shark Boy while Elkins has to go through the Man-Beast Rhyno.

Then: The H3RD was formed.
Now: The current H3RD, Tommy Treznik and Ded Vaughn defend their titles against Too Sweet. Former H3RD members will also be featured, with Austin Manix taking on Jimmy Jacobs and the Painkillers squaring off against “Amazing” N8 and Mena Libra.

#1: Seize The Day I (January 5, 2008)
The event that started it all. How can you look at an event to be the show that will change everything without looking at the show that already did change everything? Seize The Day put CLASH on the map and made it an overnight hit. When fans poured into the Taylor Town Trade Center for Seize the Day I, two things were instantly clear: first, that CLASH Wrestling provided high quality entertainment, solid matches, and a great value, and second that there were fans in Taylor and all over downriver Michigan that had a desire to see some great professional wrestling.

Then: “Ace High” Cameron Skyy defeated Gavin Quinn, Tommy Treznik, and J. Miller to become the first ever CLASH Champion.
Now: Quinn looks to defend that very same title. As CLASH Champion, he’ll take on Petey Williams in a rematch that promises to be a true classic.

Looking back I can’t help but be excited. All the history, all the lessons learned, every moment leads us to one conclusion: 100 cannot be missed. I hope you’ve all enjoyed the history lesson, I’ll see you on August 6th. In the meantime, remember to check back often because you never know when John Striker will take you Pillar to Post!

This week, I’ll be predicting the winners to CLASH’s biggest event, Seize the Day IV. It’s worth repeating that I’m the only person this side of the Mason-Dixon line to correctly predict that Tyler Elkins would capture the CLASH Championship at last year’s Seize The Day. I also am the foremost expert on “The Curse of the CLASH Championship” having first discovered the evil pattern and having researched it extensively. The bottom line: when I predict things, you’d better listen to what I have to say! Let’s take a look at the scheduled matches:

#1 Contenders Fatal Four Way: The H3RD vs. Sons of Sanity vs. Wreckingforce vs. Victorious Secret
This is a very tough match to call. The H3RD have the mastermind Tommy Treznik behind them. Sons Of Sanity (Malice & O’Malley) are looking to establish themselves as a tag team and stepping up at Seize the Day would really put them on the map. Wreckingforce was a great tag team in the past, and have the biggest two guys in CLASH Wrestling. Victorious Secret have been in the thick of the tag team division for some time now, and is a well established tag team in their own right. It’s a tough call, but I have to go with the team that has the most chance of “outside” assistance.
Pick: The H3RD via pinfall.

CLASH Tag Team Championship: Too Sweet vs. Bump N’ Uglies
The Bump N’ Uglies have shown that they’re willing to do whatever it takes to win back those titles. They’ve turned their backs on the fans, their friends, and possibly even Mama Ugly. That being said, the Tag Team Champions are beyond red hot right now, and I don’t think they’re able to be extinguished yet.
Pick: Too Sweet retains via pinfall.

Antidote Ladder Match: Tommy Treznik vs. Dave Manzo
I’m not entirely sure how this match will work, but I don’t think that any amount of superhero strength will prevent Treznik from winning this one. Don’t get me wrong, I think Manzo is certainly capable of beating Treznik any night of the week, but just as in the tag team number one contender’s match, the H3RD will be in Treznik’s corner, ready to overcome anything Manzo can throw at them, including super strength.
Pick: Tommy Treznik via forcing Manzo to drink the antidote.

Grudge Match: Tyler Elkins vs. Cameron Skyy
This is the match I am personally most looking forward to seeing. These two have a rich and storied history. Friends, competitors, enemies, and it’s finally all coming to a head. Tyler Elkins has always been in Skyy’s shadow, an afterthought. It’s always been Cameron Skyy and HIS friend, Tyler Elkins, not Elkin’s friend Skyy. As great a competitor as Skyy is, he’s also more likely to show compassion for Elkins, a sympathy for the situation that their divergent paths have caused. Elkins will be fierce and determined. I’m picking the victory of the shadow over the man.
Pick: “Caveman” Tyler Elkins via submission.

1 Year in the Making: Mena Libra vs. Truth Martini
This match is going to be a huge disappointment to so many fans in CLASH Wrestling. That’s not to say that it won’t be entertaining, even competitive maybe, but people actually think that Mena Libra has a chance of defeating CLASH CEO Truth Martini. Sorry people, but reality, the truth, is going to set in at Seize the Day. While Mena has been an entertaining wrestler, and holds victories over several independent women wrestlers, she has only once stepped into the ring with someone as talented as Truth Martini. That match ended in GQ defeating her. Truth Martini is a world class athlete and a great wrestler. End of story.
Pick: Truth Martini via pinfall.

CLASH Championship: X-Pac vs. Gavin Quinn
Everyone’s psyched to see X-Pac at Seize the Day and I’m certainly looking forward to seeing the unique style and offense he brings with him. X-Pac has been everywhere and done it all. What he’s not going to be able to do, however, is defeat GQ. I know, you’re skeptical, but Quinn is CLASH Champion for a reason. He is on top of his game, and on top of the wrestling world. There’s no way I can imagine him letting himself lose that belt, yet alone to an “outsider”. Gavin Quinn is far too stubborn, and far too strong willed to let himself lose that belt. I am tempted to pick X-Pac via DQ or Count-Out, but I’m going to put my faith in our champion instead.
Pick: Gavin Quinn via Pinfall.

So there you have it, it’s practically in stone. I’m never wrong, so why start now? If you think I’m wrong on any of these matches, you’ll have your chance to prove me wrong on Saturday! See you at Seize the Day IV!
John Striker

Favorite CLASH Employee
This category was designed to give the respect due to those of us who ply our craft outside of the squared circle. I took myself and CLASH Radio off the list, because, above all else I’m a fair and honorable person.

Fans Pick: Merch Girls 45%
B 10%
Martin 10%
Corky Robinson 10%

John Stiker’s Pick: B
The fans clearly wanted the merch girls and, while they are good at what they do, and look and smell much better than B, I have to give my props and respect to the man. He has a lot of information to memorize, an important job in relating information to you, the fans, and at one point even managed to weasel his way in as CEO of CLASH Wrestling. What’s not to love?

Most Overlooked
This goes to the guy or guys who are very good at what they do and might not get the opportunity they deserve to be on top.

Fans Pick: The Pain Killers 33%
Wreckingball 28%
William J O’Malley 10%

John Striker’s Pick: William J. O’Malley
The Pain Killers are very good but with Tommy Treznik and The H3RD they will have plenty of opportunity to make an impact. Wreckingball has also had plenty of moments to shine, including opportunities to win the CLASH Championship. O’Malley hasn’t, and that’s why he wins this award.

Next Big Thing
This goes to the wrestler or wrestlers who we think will have the best 2011. Plain and simple, and a close contest.

Fans Pick: Too Sweet 20%
Wreckingball 18%
Mena Libra 8%

John Striker’s Pick: Too Sweet
The fans were very unsure on this category. They seem to be very optimistic about a lot of people. In fact, 33% of the votes went to someone other than the top 5 vote getters. That being said, I agree with the most popular pick, Too Sweet. They’re the new CLASH Tag Team Champions and they’ve got all the momentum heading into 2011.

Rookie of the Year
While the last award was who you are expecting great things from, the rookie of the year award honors the wrestler or team who broke out in 2010 and is now engrained in the hearts of all the CLASH fans.

Fans Pick: Mena Libra 30%
Too Sweet 18%
Austin Manix 13%
Bump N’ Uglies 13%

John Striker’s Pick: Mena Libra
Mena’s rise has been meteoric, largely due to her year long feud with CLASH CEO Truth Martini. Things are coming to a head at Seize The Day, so make sure you attend!

Best Feud
What two or more wrestlers had the most interesting interactions in 2010?

Fans Pick: Mena Libra & Truth Martini 38%
Cameron Skyy & Tyler Elkins 18%
Gavin Quinn and Rave Killbourn 6%

John Stiker’s Pick: Mena Libra & Truth Martini
The fans got it right again. It’s been a great year for Mena Libra and it’s great to see her rise from camera operator to CLASH competitor. I think everyone relates to her struggle, and that’s made her a “must see” addition to CLASH Wrestling.

Best Tag Team
Very simply, who has been the best tag team of 2010?

Fans Pick: Too Sweet 45%

John Striker’s Pick: Too Sweet
The fans have it right. Too Sweet have been more than red hot since debuting in CLASH Wrestling. They captured the Tag Team Championship and haven’t looked back. They bring so much energy to the fans that there was no contest, Too Sweet swept the category.

Best CLASH Champion
There were quite a few champions in CLASH in 2010. Five, to be exact. This award honors the best of those five.

Fans Pick: “Ace High” Cameron Skyy 28%
J. Miller 15%
Gavin Quinn 15%
Tommy Treznik 8%
Tyler Elkins 8%

John Striker’s Pick: J. Miller
The fans picked Cameron Skyy, but I, John Striker like to look at the facts. Let’s count the successful CLASH Championship defenses of 2010 shall we? Tyler Elkins 0, Cameron Skyy 0, Tommy Treznik 0 (The “Mad Scientist” held the gold for 18 minutes), Gavin Quinn 0 (to his defense Quinn won the title in November), and finally J. Miller 1. So the most highly contested title in all of CLASH was only defended sucessfully ONE TIME in 2010, by the currently injured J. Miller. For this reason alone, the “Murderous Monk” gets my vote for Best CLASH Champion of 2010.

Best in CLASH
The crown jewels of this article, the best wrestling in CLASH Wrestling.

Fans Pick: “Ace High” Cameron Skyy 25%
GQ Gavin Quinn 15%
Tommy Treznik 15%

John Striker’s Pick: GQ Gavin Quinn
The fans again went with Cameron Skyy, a good choice. But it’s not by accident that GQ is CLASH Champion. He is the best in CLASH Wrestling today. He’s looking to prove that he is more than just the best in CLASH Wrestling though, because at Seize The Day 4 on January 29th, GQ will go one on one with multi-time champion X-Pac. Make sure you check out CLASHWRESTLING.COM for information on ordering tickets at a discount because you won’t want to miss this match. As great a wrestler X-Pac is, my money’s on Quinn, that’s why I picked him as Best in CLASH.

Thanks for joining me, you didn’t even have to wear your suits. Be sure to check out Seize the Day, I’ll see you there!
John Striker

Usually I take you, the reader, on a specific journey from Pillar to Post. This week, there’s so much going on we’re going to hop around all the hot spots and you’re going to get my unique perspective on a variety of issues in CLASH Wrestling. So, without further ado, ladies and gents; Pillar to Post.

CLASH RADIO NO MORE?
Breaking news, you heard it here first: CLASH Radio is on a hiatus. You probably think that CLASH Radio would be ‘put on hold’ because I can no longer stand to be near Adam Summers, or because I was sick and tired of dealing with the rude wrestlers and their condescending attitudes… but you’d be wrong. I am sorry to report that CLASH Radio’s future is in question because someone thought they’d provide me a ‘trick’ this Halloween and STOLE all of our equipment from the back seat of my Impala. Sometime between The Future is Unwritten and Wednesday, the culprit snuck into my car and made off with the whole box of equipment. All I can say to that person is: you don’t have to come and confess, we’re looking for you. We’re gonna find you. You can run and tell THAT, homeboy.

Fear not fans, John Striker has connections and I’m currently looking into replacement costs, homeowner’s insurance rate adjustments, and the like. Some microphones, a sound mix board, and about seventy dollar store pens and CLASH Radio will be up and running again!

I TOLD YOU SO
Saying ‘I told you so” doesn’t really seem appropriate, giving the horrific nature of the injury sustained by FORMER CLASH Heavyweight Champion, J. Miller… but I can’t resist: I told you so!

You would think after I did such a fine and proper job detailing the ‘Curse’ that wrestler’s would heed my wisdom and play it safe. Instead, Miller decides to flip around and OUT of the ring. That’s usually asking for trouble anyway, but when you’ve got the dreaded curse out to get you, it only confusticates the situation.

I spoke to J. Miller on Sunday and he wasn’t looking too good. His cast was huge and totally immobilizing, and he seemed to be in a lot of pain. Worse yet, I would say he was only in ‘fair’ spirits. This is a MAJOR setback for the Murderous One, and I wish him well, but fear the worse.

TO STOP A DRAGON
Man, I don’t know what’s going on with Dragon Kreed lately, but it sure seems like some steam has left his ship, so to speak. I don’t know if it’s the lack of one Jeremy Jones making his decisions but Dragon Kreed seems to be without direction lately, in my eyes at least.

I believe that Dragon Kreed is at his best when hew has a goal, a target. He seeks and destroys. What does Dragon Kreed get out of his personal battle with the H3RD? My answer, nothing. He should have been focused on winning the gold in the All out War match, not eliminating each and every member of the H3RD. But, it is what it is, and Kreed put a bulls eye on his back. H3RD and the dastardly doer of dubious deeds concocted an elixir that was administered to Kreed at The Future is Unwritten. Does this have to do with Treznik’s stated goal of recruiting Kreed into the H3RD? If so, I say “good for Kreed”. My column about not trusting Treznik not withstanding, I think Kreed could certainly use a little direction.

LUCKY BREAK FOR CAMERON SKYY
Apparently J. Miller doesn’t know that when someone says ‘break a leg’ they are actually wishing you well and a strong performance. “Ace High” certainly knows that he caught a lucky break in Miller’s broken leg, as he will be wrestling for the CLASH Heavyweight championship at Divided We Fall.

It’s a tough break for Gavin Quinn, who had to struggle through a hellicious battle royal to earn his spot in the match. Quinn told me he was spending ridiculous amounts of time studying everything that Miller does and learning his foe inside and out. Turns out that preparation was in vain, though, as Quinn will now have to change strategies to battle Skyy. I’m sure Quinn’s not complaining, he’s just happy to have the shot but one does have to wonder why Skyy is the lucky recipient of the ‘free pass’… I know there was an emergency board meeting to discuss what to do with the Title match, but I’m not sure who’s pulling so hard for Skyy. My first guess would be CEO Truth Martini, but I’m unsure where the agenda lies.

Maybe I’m just paranoid and reading way too much into this. Maybe the BOD just decided that Skyy has the best track record, what being multi-time champion and all. Maybe they just considered that Skyy Vs. Quinn represented the very best of CLASH Wrestling. Either way, Skyy hit the lottery and now needs to cash in his ticket to win the jackpot – the CLASH Heavyweight Title.

All right folks, that’s enough rambling for one day. Today you went down the rabbit hole, and came out a little wiser for it. Thanks for reading and make sure to come back and check out each and every of Pillar to Post.
John Striker

Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not taking anything away from the guy. I don’t care if he’s trustworthy or not, I’m just putting the warning out there to save others from the frustration and disappointment that comes with Tommy Treznik’s lack of friendship.

So turn off your Bunsen Burners and gather round to hear the tale of the Mad Scientist who could only love himself. Gather round and prepare to go Pillar to Post.

Don’t Follow the Leader
The colorful Confetti, who paired his ridiculous name with a tidied shirt was a CLASH rookie who believed in and followed the guidance of Tommy Treznik. How’s that working out for Confetti now? Last I heard he was a valet parking attendant, barely scraping by. From his point of view, Treznik promised to guide and help him reach the top in CLASH but abruptly changed his mind and petitioned the CLASH Executive Board to fire Confetti. I don’t know what his argument was, but it must’ve worked, as Confetti is barely a memory in most CLASH fans’ minds.

What are Friends For?
Back in January 2009, Wreckingball committed one of the most brutal attacks in CLASH History. In a rage, Wreckingball placed J Miller’s head between two chairs and squashed him like a bug, putting the current Champ out of action for months. Treznik, who was teaming with Miller at the time, was suffering from an intense fear of the Wreckingball and found himself unable to save his partner and ‘best friend’ from a potentially career ending injury. Some best friend that is, right? Wreckingball and Miller would continue to have problems for the better part of the last year. Treznik moved on, forming another partnership…

From Prominence to Obscurity
Treznik combined the best of his last two act of selfishness outlined above and not only mentored Mike Daniels, but also teamed with him. The pairing worked and the duo captured the Tag Team Championships. Their short reign saw Treznik utilize Jeremy Jones to cheat his way into keeping the title. By the 2009 Triple Crown Cup, Treznik had a different agenda in capturing the CLASH Heavyweight Title. Treznik called out his partner and, after berating him in front of the CLASH fans, PGD’d him into retirement. What else is a tag team partner to do?

False Reconciliation
Somehow, someway, J Miller entertained the idea of a reconciliation with Tommy Treznik. Treznik ‘manned up’ and admitted his failings as a partner and friend and, while Miller was skeptical, he slowly accepted Tommy back as his friend and tag partner. It didn’t take long, however, for Treznik’s selfish streak to make itself known. While Miller refused to take advantage of an injured Cameron Skyy, Treznik jumped at the opportunity, defeating Skyy to become the CLASH Heavyweight Champion.

Now Treznik has reformed the H3RD. He is now the mentor / partner of Austin Manix and has somehow employed the Donnie & Jacob Hollows to do his bidding. Will history repeat itself? Will Treznik abandon or betray his partners? Only time will tell. If I were Manix or the Pain Killers I would certainly remember the adage “keep your friends close and your enemies closer” because you never know when Tommy Treznik will change from friend to foe.

We all saw exactly what it takes to win the NPCI, but you didn’t see what it takes to organize and arrange such a show. For today’s column, I’m going to take you behind the scenes for a look into what it takes to throw the biggest tournament in the state. Sit back and get ready to expand your mind as you go, pillar to post.

Weeks / Months Before the Show
Knowing the NPCI is coming up, the CLASH executive board has a series of meetings designed to determine who will be invited to the NPCI. Votes are cast, arguments are hashed out and voted on, and a final proposal is submitted to CEO Truth Martini. Truth adds a few ‘must haves’ and the board decides on the best combination of talent to both represent the best of the best in tag team wrestling, and entertain the fans. The venue, this year the Taylor Town Trade Center, is also reserved as the show date is set.

The Days Leading Up to the NPCI
As the NPCI draws closer, things inevitably change. This year saw a members of Beyond Wrestling injured and unable to compete; they were eventually replaced by MDogg20 Matt Cross & Jefferson Saint. There were teams with travel problems, and matches had to be changed. Specifically, this year saw the removal of the Jawbreakers and the addition of Cave-Manix and the lovely ladies team of Mena Libra and Sassy Stephie.

Arrangements were also made to bring in a support crew. This year we had a bolstered sound system, professional photographer, and high quality videographer.

CLASH management was also needed to assist the out of town teams in securing travel and sleeping accommodations.

NPCI, Day 1
Crews arrived at the Taylor Town Trade Center well before noon in preparation of that nights activities. The ring had to be transported, unloaded, and assembled. The entrance way and lighting needed to be set up. The sound system was prepared and tested. A space was set aside for the video camera and for CLASH Radio (which I highly recommend, by the way). Countless batteries were charged (digital cameras, video cameras, microphones, etc.), chairs set up, and banners hung. The merchandise booth was built, and the area was swept and cleaned.

There were still a couple of last minute delays or problems. Jimmy Jacobs had travel problems and was unable to attend. Luckily for CLASH, Petey Williams is both friends with Zach Gowen and lives within a reasonable distance and was willing to step up and fill in for Jacobs.

We also ran live commentary during the NPCI, so assignments of various announce teams were made, disputed, and finalized.

Aftermath
The NPCI has ended but the work continues on. The ring and set had to be disassembled. The sound and video equipment packed away. CLASH radio conducted interviews with Too Sweet and Cameron Skyy about their victories. The chairs were stacked and the ring loaded into a truck to be taken to storage. The last people were left at the Trade Center finalizing the clean up until 1:00 AM. But even then, there was still more to do.

The website had to be updated, tweets needed to be made, and status updates needed to be issued. Footage needs to be reviewed and edited (for example, the part where, during the Cameron Skyy / J. Miller interview on night 1, I called the NPCI the Triple Crown Cup [to my defense, I was just referencing the Young Lion’s Cup and I guess I just couldn’t get ‘cup’ from my mind]).

The audio commentary we recorded needs to be combined with the video and edited down to fit in the allotted time so that it will fit on DVD. Art for the DVD needs to be created.

With all that was going on behind the scenes it’s a wonder that we were able to have a show at all, yet alone one of the greatest wrestling shows in memory.

The good news, CLASH crew and executive board: you get to relax for a few weeks.

The bad news, we have to do it all again on August 14th as CLASH returns to the Livonia Elks Lodge.

Of course, this is great news for CLASH wrestling fans, as it’s another opportunity to see the best wrestlers around!

Thanks for reading, I hope to have enlightened and inspired you. Today I’ve taken you beyond the great wrestling you see in the ring. Today I took you all the way from pillar to post.

Age of the Fall

Wrestling fans should be familiar with both of these two men. Jimmy Jacobs was a special hand-picked opponent of Tommy Treznik back in October 2009 at This is Clash 4. He’s wrestled for ROH and countless other promotions around the globe, even defeating Eddie Guerrero on Smackdown. Zach Gowen is a former TNA and WWE star who holds victories over guys like Brock Lesnar and Big Show. Let’s look at some footage.

You’ve got two talent individuals who are ring veterans and hold impressive victories over some of the biggest names in all of pro wrestling; how can you not expect great things from these two? Age of the Fall might be the odds on favorite to win the 2010 NPCI.

Aeroform

Flip Kendrick seems to both defy gravity and live up to the ‘flip’ name with his in ring acrobatics. Louis Lyndon competed against Tommy Treznik and GQ in a triple threat match at the 2010 Relay for Life.

More importantly than any singles accolades, these two men know each other inside and out. They are a cohesive unit, and have the tag team chemistry needed to win the NPCI. Will they do it? We’ll have to attend to find out.

3.0

If you went to the Chikara show at the Taylor Town Trade Center (and if you didn’t, shame on you) then you saw 3.0 emerge victorious in the main event of the evening.

3.0 is both entertaining and capable and are representing Chikara, whose Osirian Portal, Frightmare, and Dasher Hatfield we’ve seen do well in CLASH before. Last year, Osirian Portal made it all the way to the finals. Can 3.0 outdo their fellow Chikarians? We’ll find out on the 16th.

Hybrid Wrestling

Hybrid is an awesome Ohio based promotion that members of CLASH have visited in the past. They certainly know how to bring it and will be doing so at the NPCI.

Marion Fontaine is one of the best of the best, recently fighting for the Hybrid Championship Title (and a fine looking title it is). Eric Ryan was voted Hybrid’s most improved wrestler of 2009 and was also involved in the match of the year 2009.

Hybrid is looking to establish themselves as the most talented organization in the Midwest and winning the 2010 NPCI will go a long way toward that goal.

Just four teams examined, each with a good chance of winning the NPCI. Who will actually win is a mystery that will be solved on the 16th and 17th.

Here’s a hint to the wise: buy your tickets online. (http://clashwrestling.com/buytickets/) Go ahead, save some money. You can buy me a hotdog as thanks for just saving you cash.

Alright, that’s it for today. I’m going to say that, after the first fall, it’s Pillar to Post leading 1-0.

See you all very soon for fall number 2. See you shortly after that for the funnest event of the year: the 2010 NPCI Tag Team Tournament.

I, John Striker, will be your guide. Today I wish to enlighten you about a certain situation. I am subtitling this Pillar to Post: “The Curse of the CLASH Heavyweight Championship or How Tommy Treznik Avoided Certain Disaster.”

The Story I Heard
I preface this story with another story. I’m not saying it’s true, I’m just saying I heard it. On January 10th, 2009 Cameron Skyy won the CLASH Heavyweight title back from Jack Night (who he had lost it to in November). Skyy found an Indian shaman out in the deserts near Las Vegas and had the championship cursed, so that if he were to ever lose it again, pain and misery would befall the “new” champion. It sounds crazy right? But the statistics don’t lie…

Dragon Kreed – Won Title March 29, 2009 – Injured June 6, 2009
Dragon Kreed seemed to be on top of the world. Kreed spent most of his time in CLASH Wrestling as an unstoppable juggernaut. His strength, speed, and raw energy quickly catapulted him to the top of the heap and, on March 29th he achieved his goal of winning the CLASH Title. He went on to successfully defend the title and stop Cameron Skyy from gaining retribution. But even the mighty Dragon Kreed was not immune to the Curse of the CLASH Heavyweight Title. On June 6th, Kreed suffered a terrible shoulder injury that kept him out of action for the rest of the year. While Kreed is back in CLASH today, he has yet to recapture the CLASH Heavyweight Championship.

Tyler Elkins – Won Title January 23, 2010 – Injured March 27, 2010
While Dragon looked to recapture the title, it was Tyler Elkins who would become the next CLASH Heavyweight Champion. While Skyy and Kreed were busy fighting each other, it seemed as if the Caveman may have outsmarted both of them by focusing on his primary goal – winning the title. The Caveman couldn’t outsmart the Curse, though, and suffered an ACL tear just two months after becoming CLASH Heavyweight Champion.

Cameron Skyy – Won Title February 1, 2010 – Injured April 17, 2010
Cameron Skyy was back on top. He surpassed his own record for most CLASH Title Reigns by defeating Kreed and Elkins for the title. There’s one thing Skyy didn’t count on: the curse. He must’ve assumed that the curse would end upon his regaining the championship. He was wrong. Just two months after recapturing the gold, Skyy suffered a broken forearm.

It seems like the curse will set in two to three months into a title reign. That must come as a great relief to Tommy Treznik, who lost the title the same day he won it. Thinking back, when Dragon Kreed forfeited the title to the CLASH executive board (me, acting as their agent), I remember feeling a sudden wave of nausea come over me. Some say it was just nerves, that I was intimidated by Dragon Kreed but now I think it might have been the curse, making it’s presence known. I can’t guarantee that the curse is real but if I were J. Miller, I’d check twice before crossing the street.

Now I know some people are going to be a bit upset with me. I know some people are feeling hurt. They’re feeling abandoned, because I haven’t written my words of wisdom that is this column, Pillar to Post. I have a confession to make, a confession about why I haven’t written. In truth, I pride myself on knowing the backstage ins and outs. They give me a special insight into the direction of CLASH Wrestling. I then share a part of that knowledge with you. Ever since the ousting of Jeremy Jones as CEO, I haven’t had the access that I was used to. Additionally, the CLASHWRESTLING.COM web heads stepped up their game. The result was that you and I were finding out about CLASH Wrestling news and information at the exact same time.

Well, I’m happy to say, there was a change in one of the CLASH Executive Board seats and the new board member has given me one piece of important “insider information”. I have learned that at Seize the Day III, no matter what happens, a new CLASH Heavyweight Champion will crowned. If the ceiling caves in on the Taylor Town Trade Center, they will climb out of the rubble and continue until there is a winner. The CLASH Wrestling executive board was not happy with the fact that the last title match didn’t see a winner and they have assured me that, come hell or high water, a new CLASH Champion will definitely be crowned this Saturday, at Seize the Day III. Let’s take a look at each man’s chances, the way I see it.

Tyler Elkins
The Caveman has ridden Cameron Skyy’s coat tails straight to the top. Elkins is a true competitor and athlete. He’s a multi time champion in armature wrestling and MMA competition. Additionally, he has the aid of having his close friend and tag partner, “Ace High” Cameron Skyy in the match with him. Many people view Tyler Elkins as more of the side dish and less of the main course, as he’s been playing second fiddle to Cameron Skyy. I think that nothing is further from the truth. I think that people underestimate the intellect of Tyler Elkins. Tyler took his biggest weakness, his lack of experience, and overcame it by partnering himself with multi-time CLASH Champion Skyy. As I said, Elkins has used Skyy to round out his skills and take him to the next level. Elkins is a smart man and I think that Seize the Day III, this Saturday, it may be time for Elkins to take what he has learned from Skyy and use it to it’s fullest, to walk out as new CLASH Champion.

“Ace High” Cameron Skyy
As I said just a paragraph above, Elkins and Skyy have an inherent advantage in being partners and friends. Skyy of course also has the advantage of being a former, two time, CLASH Heavyweight Champion. Working against Cameron Skyy is is, quite frankly, Cameron Skyy. Skyy is certainly an established wrestler, a great competitor, and a proven champion. What Skyy lacks in this match is confidence. Skyy has been unable to defeat Dragon Kreed. Just when it looked like Cameron Skyy had his chance at retribution, Dragon Kreed made his return. If you were there, and you should have been, you would’ve seen Skyy’s flat out temper tantrum. I believe we witnessed all the air coming out of the sails of the boat that is Cameron Skyy.

“The Man’s Man” Tommy Tydie
Tydie is one of the most respected men in CLASH Wrestling, and for good reason. Tydie has done it all in CLASH Wrestling. He’s won the Triple Crown Cup, he’s held the Tag Title on four separate occasions, he founded and then reformed the H3RD. What Tydie has not done is captured that CLASH Heavyweight Championship. I know he wants it badly, and he certainly has the skill. Tommy Tydie may very well walk out of Seize the Day III this Saturday with his biggest goal achieved. That being said, I feel like Tommy Tydie tends to cave under the pressures of “Big Time” matches. For all that Tommy Tydie has won, he has also lost in spectactular fashion. Tydie has the skill, but it seems like he just needs a little something more to get over the hump and reach the very top of CLASH Wrestling.

Dragon Kreed
Kreed dominated as CLASH Heavyweight Champion with his intensity and strength. He certainly looked to have the fire in his eyes and heart as he made his debut and, if he’s 100% certainly has what it takes to reclaim his spot atop the CLASH Wrestling throne. Dragon Kreed is a human juggernaut, and unstoppable beast who has mowed down all challengers placed before him. Working against Kreed, however, is the fact that he has not completed in a match since For the Win in June. Kreed also has a surgically repaired shoulder. He’s also in there with three determined guys who are fully aware of his injury. Two of those men are the primary cause for his injury. It is for these reasons that I have my doubts about Dragon Kreed. I question his ability to recover from the surgery, to shake off the ring rust, and to overcome the obstacles placed before him. Kreed has been able to overcome all obstacles in the past, This Saturday, we’ll see if he can do it again.

Thanks for reading my return to CLASHWRESTLING.COM, make sure you’re at the Taylor Town Trade Center this Saturday to see if my expert analysis proves out. My pick for new CLASH Heavyweight Champion is none other than the “Cave Man” Tyler Elkins! Until next time, please feel free to leave me messages on the realauched CLASH Message Forums, let me know if there’s something you’ve always wanted to know that I can shed some light on, and most importantly, look forward with hope and anticipation, for the next time you get the opportunity to go Pillar to Post.

Out of Town Guests
Someone once said that houseguests are like fish, after three days they both stink. This weekend it seemed as though there were plenty of familiar ‘guests’ at CLASH wrestling. Most of them were a joy and a pleasure to be around, but some stunk after the very first day.

I’m referring to Josh Thor, who, aside from generally being a jerk to the fans as of late, had some choice words for CLASH Radio in general and myself in particular. I’m not sure if it’s because his former tag team partner was on SyFy (which is, as an aside, a terrible name for a TV station) not too long ago or what, but Thor certainly has a new found attitude problem. Don’t get me wrong, I have nothing but respect for the man as an athlete, but to degrade me? Hey, Jeremy Jones and I are fairly close, Thor best remember that next time he wants to run me down.

Injuries
I had a sit down interview with Wreckingball at Fandimonium. He was his typical angry self. Like Dragon Kreed, he didn’t really have an outlook on his return to CLASH, which is unfortunate. I find it ironic that Wreckingball’s upset that there have been no ‘injury updates’ on him when he’s not only been unreachable, but when I did talk to him he gave me no update! It’s almost like he’s just looking for a reason to walk around angry. On that note, I hope he doesn’t read this, because I’m sure he’ll find a reason to be angry about it!

On a positive note, I have it on good authority that nobody was seriously injured at Fandimonium. Between the Street Fight main event and a scary moment involving Joey Kings, it’s good to know that we won’t have any more athletes on the shelf for the months ahead. Stay safe, guys!

Tag Team Turmoil
It looks like, after their impressive win over H3RD at Fandimonium, Nightlife is set up to square off against Friends at This is CLASH 3 on 8/22. I think this match will really set the tone for the future of the CLASH tag team division and is worth the drive up to Mt. Clemons by itself.

We’ll also see H3RD take on Beauty and the Beast in what I’m sure is going to be a truly great matchup. If H3RD loses this match, I have to imagine they can kiss their chance at getting a Tag Team Title shot anytime soon goodbye. Beauty and the Beast had a title shot at Fandimonium, but only after defeating Fast and Fabulous and the Power Rangers. Call me crazy, but I think that Page and Kings deserve another chance at getting those straps and I’m rooting for them over H3RD!

Also lurking in the background is Ace High Cameron Skyy and Tyler Elkins, who may be looking to break down the door into the Tag Team division by defeating Will Vendetta and “The Rocker” Marty Janette.

Consolation Prize
Of course, Skyy may be looking simply to plant a feather in his cap by saying he defeated the former World Tag Team Champion, Jannetty. Skyy, don’t forget, has that consolation prize and, while the Tag Team Division in CLASH is certainly competitive, I believe Skyy’s ego is too large to share the glory of a championship with anyone. I said it before, and I’ll stand by it: I will be utterly shocked if Skyy does anything else with his consolation prize beside insert himself into the CLASH Heavyweight Title picture.

Of course the picture isn’t crystal clear, as CLASH has been without a champion for some time now. I, for one, hope that the situation is addressed at This is CLASH 3 at the Gibraltar Trade Center in Mt. Clemens. Miller and Tydie both have legitimate claims to the number one contender position, and I’d like to know how they plan to resolve the problem.

In any event, with awesome tag team action and all the top CLASH stars, in addition to the return and Mt. Clemons CLASH debut of “The Rocker” Marty Jannetty, This is CLASH 3 is shaping up to be a huge, “can’t miss” show.

Like all good things, this column has come to an end. Don’t weep for it’s passing. Instead, just smile and reflect fondly on this occasion when you went… Pillar to Post.

John Striker