The Thriller in the Miller III

Last Saturday night, I had a great evening at The Thriller in the Miller III at St. Demetrios. It's a special night, especially because I played a small part in its inception.

A few years ago, I was walking to Village Inn for a slice of their delicious pizza. As I crossed the street, I heard someone beep and call my name. It was my old friend and softball teammate Billy Frigelis. After he parked and we exchanged pleasantries, Billy mentioned a fundraiser he was organizing for St. Demetrios, his church. He said they were looking to have pro wrestling as part of it. Knowing I have some connections in local wrestling, Billy asked for suggestions. I suggested 2econd Wrestling, then a new company run by Rabbi Jeremy Fine. A couple weeks later, Billy told me all was set for the event to be held in January, coincidentally on my birthday weekend.

When the day came, Tony and I were curious as to how it would be presented. From walking in the door, we were impressed with how organized and professional it was. Billy, Jimmy Stamos and their whole crew were amazing. They had every detail covered.

Last Saturday, The Thriller in the Miller III raised the bar once again. Tony and I are both impressed with everything there.

I have known Billy for 30ish years. I first met Billy's brother George through Louie. We played on softball teams for years. They are all great guys. I was named an honorary Greek when I was a groomsman for Louie's wedding at St. Demetrios.

It's funny, because I remember Billy as a young teen subbing on the team until he became a regular. Now I see the adult Billy organizing such a great event. Time flies.

I appreciate Billy, Jimmy, George and all the others for the wonderful event and even more for bringing me in the Greek family.

My recap is at The Thriller at St. Demetrios on Global Traveler. Also, check 2econd Wrestling on Facebook to learn more about that great wrestling company.

Billy Frigelis, Jimmy Stamos and me in Chicago, IL-January 2026.

 

Cosplay and Wrestling with Darin Corbin at Nightmare Weekened

Shockingly, Darin Corbin made his wrestling debut in 2004. It is an understatement to say I was surprised to learn that.

While I have known of Corbin for a while, I first saw him up close in action at 2econd Wrestling a few years back. There is no way I would have guessed he has been around so long. I guessed he was about a 10 year vet.

I have seen him wrestle several times at 2econd and a few times elsewhere. He has a great moveset and ring presence. I love 2econd Wrestling, but I question their lack of a better direction for Corbin. Of course, I don't know the inner workings at 2econd, but I firmly believe Corbin has been underused. He should be a part of the title picture. He should be one of the faces of the company. He's that good.

When Tony and I heard he was appearing at GalaxyCon Nightmare Weekend, we messaged him about a quick picture. Despite being busy, he met us ringside and actually took the time to chat with us a bit. Then later that day, he was part of the cosplay wrestling card at the convention. O course, he was his usual entertaining self, while also being in cosplay mode.

For more info on 2econd, go to the 2econd Wrestling linktree. Check back here for my recurring coverage of 2econd and other wrestling companies.

Darin Corbin and me in Rosemont, IL-May 2025.

The Incredible Story of Kaia McKenna

Kaia McKenna is a very talented wrestler I first met at StarrCast a couple years ago. She is also a uniquely interesting person outside of the ring.

While following her online, I learned she is a witch. That's not an insult. She states she is a real witch.

Wanting to learn more about what that entailed, I asked for an interview. I explained I wasn't looking to criticize or mock her, but to understand what being a witch meant. She graciously obliged. In our interview at On the Beat with Kaia McKenna, we talked about her wrestling career for the first part, before delving into witches.

McKenna patiently answered my questions, doing a great job of explaining about witches. I cannot say I fully understand all about witches. I can't even say I actually believe in witches, but that doesn't matter. I respect her. 

I also respect her in the ring. A few weeks ago, I finally got to see her wrestle in person at 2econd Wrestling. McKenna (with Shelly Benson) had one of the best matches of the night.

The best part though might have been catching up with her pre-show. She talked about wrestling in new places to gain experience and exposure.

McKenna has an interesting story behind her career and life. Check the interview to hear her discuss her courageous journey in life.

Kaia McKenna and me in Arlington Heights, IL-March 2025.

Sabotage Sean Selfie

Sabotage Sean Logan has been one of the best parts of 2econd Wrestling for a long time. From his ring gear to his gimmick to his wrestling skills, Logan is extremely entertaining.

A telephone used for selfies is a big part of Logan's gimmick. He doesn't just take selfies to and from the ring, he takes selfies in ring as he wrestles, especially as he stands victorious over his opponent.

At Sunday's show, Tony and I came prepared. We had a sign that read "We want a Sean selfie." When Logan's music hit, he came out as usual. As he reached us, he stopped for a selfie with us. Mission accomplished.

It might sound silly to some and it is. That's just part of the fun and Logan brings a lot of fun to the event.

Don't mistake this goofiness with his in-ring ability. The selfie gimmick wouldn't be nearly as entertaining if he wasn't excellent in the ring.  Because he is so good at wrestling, the selfie bit just adds a little offbeat humor.

I know Logan wrestles elsewhere, but I hope he stays at 2econd and I hope he gets a shot at the main title.

For more info on Logan and 2econd Wrestling, follow both on social media. Check back here for my updates.

Sean Logan, Tony and me in Arlington Heights, IL-March 2025.

Friend Encounters: Alejandra the Lion and Jim S

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

I only saw Alejandra the Lion wrestle once. That was in July 2022 for 2econd Wrestling. I later did a longer form interview with her at On the Beat with Alejandra Lion. 

I have followed her career since that show and she is doing great. She wrestles a lot if Texas, but I keep hoping she'll return to the Chicago area for more matches.

On the other hand, I see Jim at way too many wrestling shows. LOL. Just kidding. As you can tell, Jim was also at the 2econd Wrestling show, as he is at most 2econd shows and a lot of other ones in the area. He's a great fan and supporter of the independent wrestlers.

Like me, Jim appreciate good women wrestling. We weren't fans of the divas (although some of them could actually wrestle). We like solid women's wrestling and Alejandra is one of the better ones on the indy circuit.

Alejandra the Lion and Jim Strong in Highwood, IL-July 2022.

Blair Onyx at The Thriller in the Miller

Next Saturday, Blair Onyx returns to 2econd Wrestling at The Thriller in the Miller !!. I can't wait for the return of both.

I first saw Blair at 2econd and she immediately impressed me. Among her many solid wrestling moves, Blair does an incredible one that baffles me every time. If she gets knocked backward, she contorts herself to a bridge, then rises her upper half back to a complete standing position. It is a move that must take an incredible core strength. Even in my most fit days, I couldn't even attempt this move.

Blair has been away for a bit (nursing injuries I think), but has come back strong of late. Still, this will be the first I have seen her in a while and I look forward to the return and seeing that spider-like move.

The Thriller in the Miller is a fundraiser for St. Demetrios. I am proud to say I hooked up 2econd with my Greek friends. Last year was great and this year promises to be even better. Blair is one of many solid wrestlers on the card.

It's my birthday weekend and everyone is invited. Let's make this a bigger success than last year!

Blair Onyx and me in Arlington Heights, IL-December 2022.

Where is the Darin Corbin Story Going?

Darin Corbin is an original member of the 2econd Wrestling roster. His history there has been interesting.

So far, he has verbally sparred with 2econd promoter Rabbi Fine. While he wrestles on most shows, Rabi Fine has made his wrestling life difficult as payback for Corbin's nefarious actions. On one hand, one could say he is floundering in 2econd, floating aimlessly at the whim of Rabbi Fine. I like to think this is part of a long-range story arc which will have a big payoff. I see Corbin as a future 2econd champ. 

Either way, I applaud Corbin for being the ultimate team player. He is talented enough to be champ, yet he is willing to play this role for now.

Again looking at the positive, Corbin is getting solid exposure in a front line story. He just isn't in the title picture, yet. That is really what all wrestlers want. Whether scripted or not, all wrestlers still want to hold the title. It means the company trusts you to be the face of the company. It means more exposure. It means big matches with big name opponents.

If others are like me, they are growing in respect for Corbin. When that title match happens for him and he wins, I think the place  will erupt.

For more info on Corbin and 2econd, go to 2econdwrestling.com. Check here for my updates.

Darin Corbin and me in Arlington Heights, IL-September 2024.

Friend Encounters; Vic Capri and Tony

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

My buddy Tony is a big fan of wrestler "Ice Pick" Vic Capri. Unfortunately, we haven't seen Vic wrestle much over the last few years due to scheduling conflicts and Vic's injuries. That doesn't stop Tony from seeing Vic though.

Tony has an incredible ability to spot things. Once at a convention, he saw a roller derby woman (who we met once) through a slatted wall the next aisle over. I was stunned.

At a 2econd Wrestling event in July, while we were mingling with other fans and wrestlers, Tony spotted Vic across the dark room. Of course, that meant we shoot over there and try to get a picture. We didn't really have to try though. Vic is very gracious and friendly. We were able to chat with him for several minutes.

Vic is one of the best on the independent wrestling scene. A veteran of 25+ years, he looks as fit as ever. Currently, he spends more time training others than actually wrestling, but he still has a lot of ring time left, we hope.

The lessons here are to look through crowds at such events. You never know who you might see. The other lesson is to take Tony with you if you need a great spotter.

Tony and Vic Capri in Arlington Heights, IL-July 2024.

Friend Encounters: Missa Kate and Tony

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

My buddy Tony and I might debate a lot of things, but one subject we never debate is Miss Kate. We agree she is one of the best independent wrestlers.

Currently the champ at 2econd Wrestling, Missa also wrestles elsewhere, including the National Wrestling Alliance, where she is half of the former women's tag champs. Missa seems to be a natural heel, but she works equally as well as the good guy. It's the subtle things she does. A simple quick look, a short remark, even a well-timed smirk are all part of her routine and all make for a well-rounded character in and out of the ring. If you are watching a Missa match, you are in for a treat.

Tony and I have seen Missa wrestle many times and have never seen a bad match. We haven't even seen a mediocre match. She can carry lesser opponents to solid matches and she can keep up with more experienced wrestlers. She truly is the total package.

I highly recommend 2econd Wrestling to see her in action. Check 2econd Wrestling on social media for more info on their future shows. You can (and should) also follow Missa Kate to see all of her future shows, her merch and other fun she posts.

Missa Kate and Tony in Vernon, Hills, IL-April 2024.

Missa Kate's New Shirt

Wrestler Missa Kate is "Chicago's Favorite Sweetheart" and she is an absolute sweetheart.

She is the 2econd Wrestling Champ and is a former tag team champ with the National Wrestling Alliance. She also held several other titles in her career.

As good as any title belt looks on Missa, I found something that looks even better on her...a Johngy's Beat shirt! After her most recent successful title defense at 2econd Wrestling's Taking Names, I presented Missa with a shirt and she promptly put it on. 

Missa is one of my favorites. She works great as a heel, but is excellent as a face, too. She does so many little things to add to her character. When I see someone like her, I always hope she gets to the big companies, but I also don't want to se her go. Right now, she splits her time between the NWA and Chicago area companies.

Thank you to Missa for her support. In turn, I encourage everyone to check a Missa match any time you can. You will not be disappointed.

Missa Kate and me in Vernon Hills, IL-April 2024.

Friend Encounters: Clark and Rabbi Jeremy Fine

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

Rabbi Jeremy Fine certainly met a lot of celebrities when he held 2econd Wrestling events at WrestleMania earlier this year. Still, Rabbi's heart is in the Chicago area and he proved it with his picture with Clark, the lovable mascot of the Chicago Cubs.

Rabbi Fine started 2econd Wrestling a couple years ago. It quickly became my favorite local wrestling. First champ Billie Starkz was followed by Arik Cannon and now Missa Kate. These are three great wrestlers.

On December 10, I will see Rabbi Fine and the 2econd crew at 2nd in Command in Northbrook, Illinois. The main event is Missa Kate defending against Billie. This is a dream match. My pal Tony and I often stated we would love to see this match and Rabbi Fine is delivering it. I expect Missa to prevail in an amazing match. Both women can brawl and both can mat wrestle. I really look forward to this match.

As for Clark, he has kept a low profile since the season ended. He'll do some promo appearances in the offseason, but will return to Wrigley next season.

Follow 2econd Wrestling on social media to get more updates. I hope to see a bunch of friends at 2econd in Command. 

Rabbi Jeremy Fine and Clark in Deerfield, IL-December 2023.

Billie Starkz Vs. Missa Kate at 2econd Wrestling

My friend Tony and I have often stated how much we would love to see 2econd Wrestling's first champ Billie Starkz wrestle current champ Missa Kate. On December 10 in Northbrook, Illinois, 2econd Wrestling is presenting that match and we can't wait.

Billie is on the verge of making it big in wrestling. Signed to All Elite Wrestling earlier this year, she is one of the best and youngest on their roster.

Slightly older, but still young, Missa Kate is currently wrestling for the National Wrestling Alliance, where she is a former tag team champ (with Madi Wrenkowski). With the NWA getting a CW television deal, Missa will be exposed to a much larger audience. I predict she will be one of the breakout stars.

Both ladies are fantastic all-around wrestlers. Both can brawl or mat wrestle. Both engage the crowd. I haven't seen Billie as a heal, but I see a lot of possibilities with that down the line.

More important or impressive, both are fine young women. Both are great with fans. They are as sweet as can be.

I think Missa will retain her title, but it should be a fantastic match either way. The bottom line is the fans win! 

Go to NationalWrestlingAlliance.com for more info on Missa and AllEliteWrestling.com for more on Billie. Check 2econd Wrestling on social media to get the updates.

Billie Starkz and me in Northbrook, IL-February 2023.

Friend Encounters: Jason Midas and Mike Pankow

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

Most pictures of Jason Midas show him pulling shenanigans to help his wrestlers win matches. Today, we see a slightly different Midas, one hanging out and without his glitzy ring gear.

We also see sports journalist Mike Pankow somewhat off duty. While Mike was at a wrestling event, it was well before the matches started. He was just there for a bit to mingle with folks.

These are two of the best at what they do. In an era of dwindling manager roles in wrestling, Midas proves the importance of the role. As the man behind Windy City Slam, Mike delivers all the enws of local wrestling, while also covering wrestling worldwide. Both men are very busy and are seen at many places. 

I encourage all to check out Mike's work at WindyCitySlam.com. Also, follow both on social media to see where they will pop up next. Midas will always entertain and Mike will always inform.

Mike Pankow and Jason Midas in Long Grove, IL-August 2023.

Friend Encounters: Mike Pankow and Sean Lennon

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

I don't know why I am featuring Mike Pankow and Sean Lennon. They are my bitter rivals in the cut throat world of reporting on pro wrestling.

Actually, there is no bitter rivalry. We are all friends. Besides, I do not cover wrestling exclusively like they do.

Through his Windy City Slam website and podcast, Mike does a fantastic job of covering the world of wrestling. Sean does the same with his Pro Wrestling Enforcer podcast. Between the three of us, we are pretty much at (or at least report on) every wrestling event in the Chicago area and elsewhere, too.

We have crossed paths many times. I have pictures with each, but none with all three of us. That would be like a mini-Mount Rushmore of independent wrestling reporters. LOL Seriously though, the picture of the three of us is a goal for this year.

I dabble in wrestling, but Mike and Sean dive deeply into it. I encouarege all wrestling fans to check out both of their projects.

Check WindyCitySlam.com for Mike's coverage. Check Pro Wrestling Enforcer Podcast on Facebook for Sean's coverage.

Mike Pankow and Sean Lennon in Long Grove, IL-August 2023.

On the Beat With Rabbi Jeremy Fine of 2econd Wrestling at StarrCast VI

My coverage of StarrCast VI continues with Rbbi Jeremy Fine. The owner-promoter of 2econd Wrestling discussed the state of the company, the future, the upcoming show, the summer tour and more.

2econd Wrestling is a relatively new, but massively popular, wrestling company. The first champion was Billie Starkz, who held the title for more than a year. Starkz lost the title to Arik Cannon in controversial fashion in a four-way match. Cannon will defend his title against Missa Kate (featured here recently) at Technicolor Dreamwars in October.

I have written about 2econd Wrestling several times, but they keep seeming to top themselves. Rabbi Fine does a fantastic job at running and promoting great shows. The matches are solid, top to bottom. Every show has been top-notch. Rabbi Fine is building something special with 2econd Wrestling and I am happy to give him more exposure.

Watch our interview at On the Beat With Rabbi Jeremy Fine at StarrCast VI. Check my StarrCast VI recaps on TheEveryDayFan.com. Also follow 2econd Wrestling on Facebook for updates.

On the Beat With Missa Kate at StarrCast VI

My coverage of StarrCast VI continues with an interview with Missa Kate of 2econd Wrestling. "Chicago's favorite sweetheart" is also one of Johngy's Beat's favorites.

Missa Kate is talented in the ring as a technical wrestler or a brawler. She is excellent on the mic, loaded with charisma, personality, attitude and look of a champ. I would call her "The Total Package," but that name is already used by another wrestler and Missa Kate is too much of an original to copy anyone.

I have never seen a bad match from Missa Kate. She doesn't always win, of course, but she always puts on a wrestling clinic.

At StarrCast VI, I had the pleasure of interviewing her about her upcoming title match with Arik Cannon at 2ecind Wrestling's Technicolor Dreamwars in October. Formerly one-half of the NWA Women's tag team champions (with Madi Wrenkowski), Missa is capable of beating Cannon or anyone else. She is collecting belts and hopes to add the 2econd Wrestling championship to her resume. She also talked a bit about donuts, one of her other passions.

Check my interview at On the Beat With Missa Kate at StarrCast VI. Check my StarrCast VI recaps on TheEveryDayFan.com. Follow 2econd Wrestling on Facebook for updates.

Finally Meeting Charlie Kruel

While covering Girl Fight Wrestling, I interviewed Charlie Kruel. Otherwise known as Hardcore Charles, the Purple-Haired Maniac and the Beautiful Nightmare, Charlie is an exciting young wrestler.

Debuting in 2017, Charlie started in the southern Indianapolis area. Since then, she really has developed quickly. She has wrestled all over the country.

After interviewing her, I really wanted to see her wrestle, but she hadn't come to the Chicago area. Finally last year, 2econd Wrestling brought in Charlie for a show and she did not disappoint.

Of course, I brought a box of PopTarts for her. One of her gimmicks (or characters) loves PopTarts or maybe Charlie herself loves PopTarts. You never know with Charlie.

Charlie gets it. At the young age of 25, Charlie understands character development and ring psychology. She is still developing, but she is a wrestler on the rise.

I only saw her that one time, but I hope to see her again. Chicago promoters should bring in Charlie. She is one of the brightest young women out there.

Watch our interview at On the Beat With Charlie Kruel. Follow 2econd Wrestling on Facebook for updates and schedules.

Charlie Kruel and me in Palatine, IL-Summer 2022.

Friend Encounters: Bill Goldberg and Rabbi Jeremy Fine

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

Rabbi Jeremy Fine started 2econd Wrestling a little more than a year ago. In that short time, it was become an excellent independent wrestling company.

Based in the Chicago area, 2econd Wrestling has run shows all around the northwest suburbs and recently did a tour of events in Wisconsin. Earlier this year, Rabbi Fine took 2econd Wrestling to the west coast for events during WrestleMania weekend. One of those events was a Jewish-focused wrestling event.

While out there, Rabbi Fine met Bill Goldberg, possibly the most famous Jewish wrestler. Goldberg is a multi-time champ is the WWE, as well as the now-defunct WCW. Even past his prime, Goldberg is still capable of igniting a crowd with his power moveset.

2econd Wrestling held a tournament to crown its first champ. The winner was Billie Starkz, who held the title for more than a year. She eventually lost it to Arik Cannon in a controversial finish in a fourway match. Starkz was an excellent champ. It is too early in the Cnnon reign to see what he will do, but he is a credible wrestler with an impressive resume.

The next 2econd event is Thursday, July 20. For more info, go to 2econdWrestling.com and check here for my recurring coverage.

Henry, Bill Goldberg and Rabbi Jeremy Fine in Los Angeles, CA-April 2023.

Appreciating Missa Kate

Last year, with Tommy Else, I had the pleasure of interviewing wrestler Missa Kate. That can be found at The Johngy "OR ELSE" Podcast - Ep.: 39 Missa Kate.

If you haven't seen Missa Kate wrestle, you are missing a treat. She is the total package. She has the look, skills and charisma needed to stand out in wrestling. I have only seen Missa wrestle as a "bad guy," a role she embraces. She is fantastic with old school tactics. With a look, nod, shun or any of a number of subtle things she does, she conveys she isn't a good guy. I am quite sure she could be a beloved fan favorite, too.

Whether good or bad, Missa is always great in the ring. I would love to see her get a real shot in one of the big companies. I know she would do great.

Until that happens though, I am enjoying her on the Chicago independent wrestling scene. In April, I saw he wrestle in a fourway match for the title at 2econd Wrestling. She is scheduled to return to 2econd Wrestling at Prevail on July 20. He match has not been announced, but I am hoping it is for the title. Missa would be a fantastic champ for 2econd.She could add that belt to the NWA tag team belt she currently also hold.

Missa Kate and me in Palatine, IL-April 2023.

Friend Encounters: Billie Starkz and Tony Feddeler

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

2econd Wrestling debuted a little over a year ago. Billie Starkz won a tournament to become the first 2econd champ. To be clear, Billie won THE title. With no disrespect to women (or men), 2econd Wrestling only has one title and men and women can fight for it.

It was a bold move for the new company to have women in the first title tourney and even bolder to have their first champ be a woman. In all fairness, Billie is a worthy and deserving champ. As my author pal John Cosper told me a while back, Billie is poised for stardom. It's really only a matter of time before she signs with one of the big companies.

Tony Feddeler and I agree she is one of the best on the independent scene. We are enjoying every match we see of hers, because we know she will not be here much longer.

On Sunday, February 19, we will get at least one more chance to see Billie as she returns at 2econd Wrestling's Identity Theft. Billie alone would be enough for me to go to this show, but 2econd has a lot more on the card.

2econd Wrestling has something special. They are young and growing, but each show so far has been excellent. I expect Identity Theft to be another great show. I'll be "On the Beat" as always, accompanied by Tony.

Follow 2econd Wrestling on Facebook to get all the info and updates. Check back here and TheEveryDayFan.com for my recurring coverage.

Tony Feddeler and Billie Starkz in Highwood, IL-July 2022.