The "Or Else" Podcast Episode 32: "The Ego" Robert Anthony

The newest episode of The "Or Else" podcast is live now and it is special for multiple reasons. Through a big assist from Dick Griffiths II, "The Ego" Robert Anthony is our guest. Ego did not make it to the Or Else studio, but we got the interview recorded on Skype and it is now available in video form.

Ego was one of my first favorite wrestlers on the independent scene and he remains one of the best I have ever seen. He is gold on the mic and in the ring. While he is technically not an RPro original (he was not there for the first show), he was the face of the company and the champ for a long stretch.

On a personal level, he was always cool with me. He was always good for an interesting interview, whether it was at at an RPro show or Wizard World Comic Con. Ego is a big fan of comics, as you could see in On the Beat with Robert Anthony at Wizard World 2014.

On an even more personal level, Ego talked to the teenage son of one of my friends, when he was having bullying issues. To keep it private, I won't mention too many details, but Ego took time to talk to this young man on a few occasions. It made a difference and we all appreciated Ego's effort. Several other members of the RPro family also volunteered to talk to this kid and many did reach out to him. I am grateful for everyone involved.

I told this story in a pre-show meeting back in the day. I felt Ego needed to be recognized. It was one example of what RPro meant to people. C Red's RPro Positive Outreach Program reached and helped hundreds of kids, but there were also lots of individual stories like mine with Ego, involving RPro talent helping others.

The picture below is from one of my favorite RPro interviews. Tommy (Eric St. Vaughn) had just won the tag titles (with Brady Pierce as Body Magic). RPro co-owner Gabe Baron joined the interview early in it, followed by Marshe Rockett and Ego. It was a bit out of character for Ego, in that he often was a bit of a loner. This interview represents Ego at his best.

This interview also represents one of the last real high points in the history of RPro. Things were going great. Everyone was happy. The vibe was electric.

Things would change drastically soon. Billy Corgan left the company and many followed. I didn't think Ego left because of Billy (like so many others did), but you can find out his reasons on the Or Else Podcast interview Tommy and I did with him.

You can listen to Episode 32 "The Ego" Robert Anthony on SoundCloud and check out all of the episodes on The "Or Else" Network main page on SoundCloud. Also, as promised, the full video version is now available on the newly created Or Else Podcast YouTube channel.

I want to thank Ego for his time, professionalism, honesty and consideration. I also want to thank him for years of entertainment. I also want to thank DGII for facilitating this interview. It was a lot of fun and seems to have opened the door for more former stars of RPro. Stay tuned, because The "Or Else" podcast is getting bigger and better.

Tommy Else, Robert Anthony and me in Willowbrook, IL-October 2014.

Introducing the "Or Else" Podcast

It was bittersweet to watch Resistance Pro Wrestling shut down.  I made a lot of great friends there and had so many fun memories.  There were just too many twists and turns in the RPro story.  By the end, it really wasn't what it intended to be.

Fortunately, out of the ashes comes The Resistance, which promises a new beginning.  There will be some familiar faces, but plenty of new ones.  Best of all, there is a whole new mindset.  The Resistance debuts Saturday, February 17 with "Chapter 1: Creation" in Summit, IL.

The RPro story is one that has been told in bits and pieces, but never in the entirety and never by someone who was involved from the beginning.  There is nobody more qualified to tell that story than my bud Tommy Else, who won his place in RPro via an audition.

What was intended as a one-off turned into a permanent spot for Tommy, who was renamed "Eric St. Vaughn."  Tommy (or ESV) went from being a manager (or bodyguard/trainer) in D'Arcy's Dynasty faction to winning the RPro tag titles (with Brady Pierce) as Body Magic, a gimmick that was over huge with the fans.  ESV even made a shakeweight a popular feature at the shows.  ESV also got 40,000 views on one of our interviews on YouTube (and just under 40K on two others).  It's no stretch to say that Tommy was one of (if not the) most popular wrestler in RPro.

With the closing of RPro, Tommy has started the "Or Else" podcast, with the initial goal of telling the RPro story, which is essentially the Tommy Else Story, as the two go hand-in-hand.  I am happy and proud to announce that I will join him on the first several podcasts.

I started covering RPro from their debut.  I saw it all, including the rise of Tommy and the eventual fall of RPro.  We plan on discussing it all.  We won't be slinging dirt, but we will be honest and open in telling the parallel stories of Tommy and RPro (with a little Johngy thrown in).

The first episode is "Raven Goes to the Magic Shop" starts with Tommy's entrance into RPro and continues with his first few shows.  One of the highlights (as the title suggests) is a story about him driving Raven to a magic shop on the way to an RPro show.

In late breaking news, I heard from a very reliable source that there will be some other surprise guests from RPro's past, who will make guest appearances on the "Or Else" podcast.  This keeps getting better.

Check out the "Or Else" Podcast on Soundcloud.  The first podcast serves as an introduction by Tommy.  I joined Tommy Episode 1: Raven Goes To The Magic Shop.  I hope you enjoy it.  Feel free to send any questions you might have.

Toomy Else and me in Willowbrook, IL-April 2013.

Friendly Encounters: Eric St. Vaughn and Deena Fagiano

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

As you all know, Resistance Pro Wrestling and the Chicago Bliss are two of my favorite organizations to cover.  Two of my favorite people within those folks are Eric St. Vaughn and Deena Fagiano.
I'm not sure if the picture below represents the first time these two met, but it definitely was the first time ESV interviewed Fagiano.  That interview can be found at On the Beat with Deena Fagiano of the Chicago Bliss.
A lot of good things have happened to both of these friends since then.  ESV captured tag team gold (with Body Magic partner Brady Pierce).  They are the reigning tag champs, having held the titles for many months now.
Fagiano and the Bliss went on to win a second consecutive Legends Football League title, continuing their dominance.  This season, the Bliss is already 2-0 and on their way to another LFL championship.
I appreciate everything both people and organizations have done for me.  ESV and Deena are especially good interviews and are always willing to do them.  I can't ask for more.  I am also proud to consider them both friends of mine.
"It's Body Magic, y'all" and #3peat.
I think that covers both of their gimmicks!

Eric St. Vaughn and Deena Fagiano in Downers Grove, IL-May 2014.

Friendly Encounters: Eric St. Vaughn and Jess Price

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

Eric St. Vaughn is one of the longest-tenured wrestlers at Resistance Pro.  ESV is currently half of the tag champs Body Magic (with partner Brady Pierce).
ESV is one of the hardest working people I have ever seen.  Whether he is wrestling, training, promoting or anything else, he gives it his all.  Sometimes, he might even give too much for his own good, but those who are lucky to be part of his life, appreciate him as a friend.
At a promotional event for the Chicago Bliss last year, ESV met Jess Price, one of the talented and lovely rookies on the team.  Like ESV, Price worked very hard to earn her spot on the team and on the field.  These two are very much like eash other in that respect.
This is one of those times when worlds collided.  I am happy to be connected with both ESV and Price and their respective organizations (RPro and the Bliss).  They are good people and good organizations.
I highly encourage everyone to check out ResistancePro.com and LFLUS.com to learn more about their organizations and to get news on their events.

Eric St. Vaughn and Jess Price in Downers Grove, IL-May 2014.

The Rise of Eric St. Vaughn

One of the highlights of 2014 involved Resistance Pro and my friend Eric St. Vaughn.  In September at RPro's "Practice What You Preach," I witnessed something special.  Eric St. Vaughn (along with his Body Magic partner Brady Pierce) won the RPro tag team titles.  It was ESV's first championship in wrestling.

I like to remind him that I predicted a title for him in 2014.  To be exact, I predicted a mid-card title for ESV.  I figured he was the perfect choice if RPro made a new title.  Still, a title is a title and I'll take my prediction, but really this is about ESV.

ESV is a good guy.  Oh sure, in the ring he can bend the rules.  He sometimes uses illegal tactics.  He occasionally yells at fans.  Underneath it all, ESV isn't really a bad guy.

He has worked very hard at his craft.  He started as part of D'Arcy's Dynasty in the infancy of RPro.  Soon Body Magic was born.  Early in the Body Magic tenure, he didn't wrestle much, but he steadily has gotten involved in more action.  On the mic, he is gold and in the ring, he is ever-improving.  Despite still being relatively new to the wrestling business, ESV deserves the title and is making a great champ!

I am proud to have seen ESV through every step on this journey.  I am prouder to call him my friend.  ESV should be proud, too.  He deserves every bit of joy he can get from this title run!

Eric St. Vaughn and me in Willowbrook, IL-September 2014.

Halloween with HeMan (aka Eric St. Vaughn)

Since this is Halloween Week, I am featuring some of my favorite costumes worn by some of my favorite people at Resistance Pro.

Resistance Pro's Eric St. Vaughn is a big fan of HeMan.  In fact, ESV did an interview with Tom Cook, one of the artists for HeMan for JohngysBeat.com.  That interview can be found at On the Beat with Tom Cook.

ESV recently added a new piece to his regular costume, when he and Body Magic partner Brady Pierce became the new RPro tag team champs.  ESV has a nice, shiny belt around his waist.

Eric St. Vaughn and me in Willowbrook, IL-October 2013.

On the Beat with Resistance Pro's "Practice What You Preach"

At last month's "Practice What You Preach," Resistance Pro put on another great night of wrestling.  We got a handful of interesting interviews, as well.

Eric St. Vaughn and Brady Pierce of Body Magic took home the tag team gold.  We have supported ESV from his debut and this interview was well worth the wait.  Cameos by various RPro people and assorted other fun, make this one of my favorite interviews of all time.

I have to give Special Correspondent Jonathan McMahon credit for nabbing D'Arcy Dixon, former RPro Women's champ.  D'Arcy has been rather elusive, but JMac got her or maybe she got him.  She really had himn squirming and that made this one of my favorite interviews, too.

The talent isn't the only thing of interest, however.  Some of the fans can be just as entertaining.  Such is the case with Dick Griffiths, aka Chain Male.

JMac was back on the beat with an update interview with Mike Bellcaster.  Since our last interview with Bellcaster, has has added "ring announcer" to his resume.  He has also added "dad," and we congratulate him and his lovely wife Nicole (aka the Merchandise Girl).

The next RPro show is "Rust in Peace," a Halloween themed night of fun.  Come out and join the gang on Saturday night.

On the Beat with New Tag Team Champ Eric St. Vaughn

This post and this interview is over 2 years in the making.  It is all well worth it though.  (Of course, Eric St. Vaughn did all of the hard work to get to this point.)

When I heard that Eric St. Vaughn had joined Resistance Pro wrestling, I immediately contacted him about an interview.  ESV was going to be RPro's first home grown star and I wanted to get him from day one.

Despite his in-ring persona, ESV had always treated me very well.  He never turned down my many interview requests.  Win, lose or draw, he always was willing to talk to JohngysBeat.com.  Even after a particularly hard and tiring show, ESV gave time to talk to a group of teenage JohngysBeat.com interns.  ESV proved that you could be a bad guy in the ring, but not a total jerk outside.

I have witnessed how hard this man worked at his craft.  He started in D'Arcy's Dynasty and morphed into the leader of Body Magic.  His fan section at the shows is always the largest and loudest.  Clearly, ESV has been doing something right.

In truth, he is still learning in the ring, but together with Brady Pierce, Body Magic captured tag team gold at the recent RPro show.  The place went wild.  Wrestlers, fans, RPro management and a reality tv show crew all congratulated and celebrated with ESV.

After the win and the victory tour around the arena, ESV was mobbed in the lockerroom.  After a brief celebration there, he had some interviews to do with the reality show folks.  A visibly emotional and exhausted ESV emerged from the backstage area and signaled me for our interview.

This was the interview I had planned for years.  True, as is stated in the interview, "everything went off the rails," but that was okay for this night.  We got cameos by other wrestlers, plastic fruit and bread, laughs, emotions and more.  I hope I did this win justice for ESV.

I want to take this time to publicly thank ESV  for letting me ride along on his journey.  The title is yours, buddy.  You worked for this, dreamed of it and now you are living it.

It was another magical night at RPro.  Actually, it was a Body Magic-al night!

On Stage With Billy Corgan

A few weeks ago, Billy Corgan made his Ravinia debut. So did I. In fact, for a magical five minutes or so, we sang together, but more on that later.

The evening started with a performance by Corgan in a private dining room for VIPs. Corgan, accompanied by Jeff Schroeder, did a 30-minute set, followed by a Q&A. I was literally within several feet of the performers.

Before ending this session, Corgan assembled his friends from Resistance Pro and informed us we would be joining him on stage later. He proceeded to run us through a quick practice. I was going to share a stage with Billy Corgan!

We eventually settled into our seats in the Pavilion and enjoyed about two hours of beautiful acoustic music. Prior to his last song, we were escorted backstage and then introduced by Corgan. Twenty or so of us gathered around the microphones as Corgan jumped into “Of a Broken Heart.”

Then it hit me, as I looked out at the thousands of fans. I was singing chorus with Billy Corgan on stage! Plus I was experiencing this with my friends. Time flew by, yet stood still. This was about as surreal and magical as it gets.
I have always tried to soak in these moments.  I have tried to calm the excitement enough to fully experience and relish the moment.  I made sure to look at the crowd and realize just how cool this was.
Backstage after the show, we all could not believe what just happened. It became more real when hundreds of pictures and videos started floating around the Internet the next day. Other friends are still asking me how it was, and all I can say is, “Unbelievable.”
Below is a video of our time on stage.  On the far right is Eric St. Vaughn or RPro, Bridget McDonnell of the Chicago Bliss and me.  I have no rhythm whatsoever, but I still enjoyed myself to the fullest.

On the Beat at Resistance Pro's "The Real Thing"

It was a sweltering night in the Barn in Willowbrook, but that did not prevent the folks at Resistance Pro Wrestling from putting on another great event.  "The Real Thing" featured an evening full of wrestling, along with several extra cameras, as the long-awaited reality show tapings started to happen.

The AMC film crews were not the only ones doing any video recording.  As usual, JohngysBeat.com grabbed a few stars of RPro for some interviews.

The Slobberknockers were making their return to the ring, after such an emotional debut a couple months ago.  We also got them for a return interview.  Despite the best efforts of a few joker wrestlers, the Slobberknockers held their composure throughout (most) of the interview.

Special Correspondent Jonathan McMahon interviewed Referee Mario Scruggs and I interviewed Referee Drew Thomas.  These were our first interviews with both of these refs.

After months of trying, I finally got to interview Musical Director Sheri Shaw.  Shaw is usually a whirlwind of activity, but we got her right before her day began.

We also spoke to Matt Knicks.  The Marvelous One discussed his recent attitude change and his split from former partner "Big C" Chris Castro.

Lasty, in a short video presentation, we gave Eric St. Vaughn a trophy commemorating his 40,000 YouTube Views for one of our previous interviews.  It was the first interview we have done (and only one so far) to have reached that mighty milestone.

On the Beat with Tommy Else (The Madame Zuzu's Aftermath)

A couple weeks ago, a group of my friends watched our mutual friend Tommy Else live out his unimaginable dream. Tommy played an acoustic set at Madame ZuZu’s Tea Shop in Highland Park, Ill. Also in attendance was Billy Corgan, owner/operator of Zuzu’s, frontman for the Smashing Pumpkins and Tommy’s musical idol.  I wrote about the night in an online piece for Global Traveler magazine at A Night of Good Music and Good Friends.
I had interviewed Tommy before the show to get his pre-show thoughts.  That interview can be found at On the Beat with Tommy Else.  Last Saturday, I spoke to Tommy about that night, to get his post-show thoughts.  That interview is below.
Tommy's performance impressed all of us.  We knew that Tommy dabbled in music, but we had no idea how good he really was.
I am quite sure Tommy was nervous about the night.  It was his first public performance in a long time (other than random karaoke nights).  He was performing in front of his idol, Billy Corgan, at Billy's invitation.  I applaud Tommy for just having the guts to do this, let alone do it so well.

Tommy is a great guy and we were all so happy tat he got this opportunity.  This is beyond bucket list stuff.  Five years ago, Tommy would never even have dreamed of this possibility.  Yet, there he was weaving flawlessly through a two hour set of beautiful music.  It truly was a magical night and I am happy and proud to have been there.

On the Beat at Resistance Pro's "The Mob Rules"

Every Resistance Pro Wrestling show is a fun event, but "The Mob Rules" was a special night and not because of the wrestling.  This night belonged to Emily Anne Lundvall.
Emily is a friend of RPro and a Special Olympian.  She recently won gold and silver medals and the folks at RPro decided to honor her with a special award presentation.  The applause for Emily rivaled that of any wrestler and brought chills to everyone there.  It truly was a wonderful night.

I was proud to get interviews with Kathy Lundvall, Emily's mother, and Aaron Hirthe, Emily's coach.  Each spoke of what this all means to them and Emily.

I got my first interview with "Simply Sexy" Shawn Blaze, a relative newcomer to RPro.  Hopefully this is the first of many as he climbs the RPro ladder.

Marshe Rockett has been climbing the RPro ladder for a while and he is poised near the top.  Special Correspondent Jonathan McMahon interviewed Mr. M80.

I also finally got an interview with "The Inspiration" Brady Pierce.  The strong, quiet member of Body Magic seems to have a bright future at RPro and we discussed plenty of topics.

RPro's very own Eric St. Vaughn took over the interview duties and landed Chicago Bliss coaches John Witte and Ryan Andrews, along with Bliss star Dana Lorraine.  The RPro-Bliss connection has been a fun one for all.  We are looking forward to celebrating their next LFL title at a future RPro show.

Lastly, I got a special interview with Justin King of King Cobra.  Justin gave me a rare calm look at his career to this point.  All was going well, until his brother Head Referee Robert King appeared.  Then things got real interesting.
I hope you enjoy these videos.  I hope you come to "The Real Thing" this Sunday.  You will not be disappointed!

On the Beat with Dominique Collins of the Chicago Bliss-08/11/2014

Today, we wrap up Eric St. Vaughn's latest JohngysBeat.com Chicago Bliss mission.  The Resistance Pro wrestler interviewed the very versatile Dominique "DC" Collins and asked her about the upcoming playoff game.
DC is the first Bliss player I ever interviewed at a game.  There was an LFL playoff doubleheader and I was watching the first game in the end zone with the Bliss coaches and some of the players, including DC.  I took the opportunity to land my first game day Bliss interview.
On and off the record, we talked about her versatility, the team, the playoffs, her half-time tackle event and more.  DC became an instant favorite of mine.
At the first practice of the year, I interviewed Dominique again and then I watched the practice.  It quickly became apparent that she was on a mission.  She looked super-focused and intense.  She didn't just catch passes.  She snatched them out of the air.  On defense, she was like a ball hawk.
DC made headlines during one of the games for getting bowled over by an opposing runner.  She also lead the team in tackles that day, but that went unnoticed by most of the media.  Fortunately, her teammates and coaches knew it.  Still, DC handled it all with class.  She tipped her proverbial cap to the runner and came back more determined.
My next interview with her will be in Los Angeles, right after the Bliss wins the LFL championship.  First things first though.  On Saturday, August 23, the Bliss will beat the Los Angeles Temptation to advance to the title game.
I have not forgotten about ESV either.  He will be in action at Resistance Pro's "The Real Thing" on Sunday, August 24.  I expect him and Body Magic to come out as winners, too.

On the Beat with Bridget McDonnell of the Chicago Bliss-08/11/2014

Resistance Pro wrest;er Eric St. Vaughn was on the Beat again.  This time, ESV interviewed Chicago Bliss rookie Bridget McDonnell.  The two talked about her rookie season, the upcoming playoffs and more.
I see similarities between ESV and Bridget.  They both are obviously into physical fitness.  They both worked very hard to earn their positions in their respective fields.
ESV came to RPro as an unproven commodity.  Over the last few years, he has busted butt on every level to improve every aspect of his game.  The result is a very popular wrestler who has a bright future.
I met Bridget at the first Bliss practice of 2014.  She was one of several women trying to earn a spot on the defending champions.  It was no easy task, but Bridget practiced hard and often.  She worked at her craft and remained patient.  Bridget played in the last two games and showed everyone that she belongs on the team.
I'm happy to see two good people make it and have fun doing it.  I am happier say I am friends with both.  They each have a bright future and I am sure I will be covering both in the future.
For now, you can catch ESV in action at RPro's "The Real Thing" on Sunday August 24.  Bridget will be in action with her Bliss teammates on Saturday, August 23, as they open the playoffs against long-time nemesis Los Angeles Temptation.  We wish them both good luck!

On the Beat with Deena Fagiano of the Chicago Bliss-08/11/2014

Resistance Pro wrestler Eric St. Vaughn was back on the Beat again, as he interviewed Chicago Bliss veteran Deena Fagiano at a recent practice.  Once again the RPro-Bliss partnership came into play.
ESV talked to Deena about the last game versus the Los Angeles Temptation, the current state of the Bliss, the upcoming playoffs and more.  The Queen of Hashtags gave us her unique perspective on all topics (but she did not give us any hashtags).
Deena is a valuable part of the Bliss organization on and off the field.  On the field, she flies under the radar a bit, but her contributions are not to be overlooked.  She recently scored a touchdown and celebrated as only Deena can.
Off the field, she is important, too.  She makes a lot of public appearances, spreading the word of the Bliss, including at a Resistance Pro wrestling event.  Could an in-ring career be in Deena's future?  Maybe she could get some tips from ESV.
After you watch the video, check out Deena and the rest of the Bliss at LFLus.com.  Keep checking back here at JohngysBeat.com for full coverage as the Bliss continue their quest to defend their LFL championship.  Thank you Deena, the Bliss organization and ESV.  Go Bliss!

On the Beat with Chicago Bliss Head Coach Keith Hac-08/11/2014

Resistance Pro wrestler Eric St. Vaughn joined JohngysBeat.com for a Chicago Bliss practice and took over the interview duties.  Resistance Pro and the Chicago Bliss have a mutual respect and it is always good to see any sort of crossover.

ESV caught up with Chicago Bliss Head Coach Keith Hac to talk about the state of the team and the upcoming playoff game against the Los Angeles Temptation.  They had previously talked at the Bliss season kickoff party, prior to a game against the Temptation.

Hac was his usual candid self, predicting...guaranteeing victory over the Temptation.  For Hac it comes down to basics.  The Bliss is simply the better team.

From my viewpoint, Hac is right (as usual).  The Bliss are better coached and have better talent.  They are also determined to defend their LFL title (as you will see in the other interviews ESV conducted at practice, which will run here soon).

ESV and RPro are firmly on the Bliss bandwagon.  I am very proud to have put these great organizations together.  I love the synergy.  You can tell ESV is comfortable in the Bliss universe and I know the team is comfortable near the RPro ring.

The playoff game is August 23.  I am predicting a 27-14 Bliss victory.  I never doubt Coach Hac and ESV is just as confident.  Go Bliss!

On the Beat with Resistance Pro Wrestling at "Deliverance"

Resistance Pro's "Deliverance" was another great night of entertainment.  As usual, JohngysBeat.com was there to enjoy the evening, but also to record some fun interviews with the stars at R Pro.

I started the night by interviewing C Red.  Despite being the successful manager of da Soul Touchaz and one of the fascinating R Pro broadcasters, this interview focused mostly on R Pro's Positive Outreach Program" (POP).  C Red discussed the origin, growth and future of POP.

We finally got Lucy Mendez back for an interview.  Recently voted "The sexiest Female Wrestler in the Midwest," Mendez discussed that award, her love of the St. Louis Cardinals and more in this fun exchange.

JohngysBeat.com's Special Correspondent Jonathan McMahon took the interview spot by landing Jake O'Neill.  This, too, focused mainly on the POP program.  O'Neill also talked about his future in R Pro.

The Slobberknockers have been part of R Pro in various roles since the beginning.  They finally got a shot in the ring (against the tag team champs, no less) and we talked to them immediately after their match.  This is emotional, inspirational and fun.

Justin King was not scheduled for an interview, but that did not stop him from making his presence felt here.  King interrupted a conversation between Dere and me and also an interview with returning ESV superfan Matt Parker.  King is angry and he let us know about it.

Speaking of ESV superfan, ESV himself (Eric St. Vaughn) took Matt to task over his lack of support over the last several months.  ESV demands a lot of himself and those around him.

This is just a slice of the fun I had at R Pro at "Deliverance."  Next Friday, I am heading out to "Mob Rules" to get more interviews and have more fun.  Sat tuned to the Resistance Facebook page and the JohngysBeat.com Resistance playlist on YouTube for all future R Pro interviews.

Chicago Bliss Week (Game 2): Resistance Pro+Fox 103.9+Chicago Bliss+Johngy's Beat

The title says it all.  Four great organizations (yes, I am calling JohngysBeat.com a great organization, although some might argue both parts of that) have come together.

My association with Resistance Pro is well documented and goes back to their debut.  My association with the Chicago Bliss is also well documented, but only goes back to last season.  My association with Fox 103.9 stems from my connection with R Pro and now the Bliss.  Make sense?  Doesn't matter.  It's all fun.

I love synergy.  I love when worlds collide to make stronger entities.  I love good people working and playing together and I especially love when I play a part in connecting those good people.

I initiated the Resistance Pro connection with the Chicago Bliss.  Beautiful athletic women appearing at a wrestling show just seemed a natural fit.  The R Pro fans loved them from the first night.  The Bliss women have been awesome at each appearance.  I am still waiting for them to get in the ring sometime.

I started the ball rolling, but Gabe and Jacques Baron and Eric St. Vaughn jumped on the idea and have helped the relationship flourish since then.

The Fox 103.9 has been a sponsor and friend of R Pro for a long time.  JP Peletis and the crew are all cool and fun and get what is happening.  Recently, they became sponsors of the Bliss.  Wow, it was all coming together now.

The picture below represents 3/4 of this alliance.  Unfortunately, we did not have a Bliss player in the photo.  They were a little busy planning for the game.  Still, it was taken at the game and therefore the Bliss is represented in a way.

There is still plenty of room on this burgeoning juggernaut.  This is inclusive, not exclusive.  Come join the fun.

Eric St. Vaughn, JP Peletis and me in Hoffman Estates, IL-May 2014.

On the Beat at Resistance Pro's "Savage Amusement"

Resistance Pro's "Savage Amusement" was another great night filled with awesome wrestling.  R Pro continues to live up to the high standards they set.

JohngysBeat.com scored a few key interviews.  Special Cotrrespondent Jonathan McMahon talked to the newly-freed Suge D.  This was a lot of fun an featured a quick cameo by Mad Man Pondo and some very shiny pants on Suge D.

Another Special Correspondent made his triumphant return.  JayHawk Evans talked to Eric St. Vaughn of Body Magic.  Even after a long night of action, ESV still gave us his time to discuss the latest Body Magic news.

I thought I was interviewing Cobra, but Justin King, his new manager, interrupted and took over.  Apparently this is a new era for Cobra.

I also had a good interview going with the lovely and mysterious Miss Prig, until the overbearing Colonel Jesse Corgan saw us and put an immediate stop to it.  Still, we got a little insight from Miss Prig.

I did manage to get a full interview from Paloma Starr, the winner of the recent Sam Thompson Memorial Tournament.  Starr was getting a title shot later in the evening.
Last, Eric St. Vaughn took over the interview duties and talked to Chicago Bliss Assistant Coach John Witte.  The Bliss and R Pro are developing a solid relationship and mutual admiration society.
This is just a slice of the fun at the R Pro shows.  I am so excited about the next R Pro show, Friday, June 13.  "Deliverance" will certainly deliver.  I'll be there and you should, too!

On the Beat with JP Peletis of the Fox 103.9

Resistance Pro Wrestling has been around for about 2.5 years.  The Fox 103.9 has been around for about a year.  The Chicago Bliss have been around in one form or another for 10 years.  Last Saturday, these three relatively new companies all came together at Gnarly J's at the 2014 Chicago Bliss Kickoff Party and JohngysBeat.com's Special Interviewer Eric St. Vaughn of R Pro talked to JP Peletis about all of this.

The Fox just recently announced a sponsorship with the Chicago Bliss.  The Fox has already been associated with R Pro for a while.  Recently, R Pro and the Chicago Bliss have come together for some joint possibilities.  As JP explains, it all makes perfect sense and is beneficial to all.

Knowing all three companies, I can attest to the quality of each, the class of people and the way each does business.  Each is top notch and that is why I love working with all of them.

This is just the beginning of this three-headed monster.  I expect more mutual support and events.  Of course, JohngysBeat.com will be at those events.

Once again, ESV (he of the 40k video views) does an outstanding job being on the other side of the interview.  I also want to thank JP for his kind words about appearing in a JohngysBeat.com interview.  I am quite sure there will be more JP.  Just ask ESV and his multiple interviews!