The "Or Else" Podcast: Mike Vinikour

Mike Vinikour got his start at Resistance Pro Wrestling with a reference from our good friend Mike Bucci. Mike was a regular presence at RPro behind the camera and behind the scenes in several roles.

Mike started as the photographer at RPro. He got those awesome in ring shots that captured the action we all loved. Along the way, Mike started helping in the booking area and eventually was a main booker for RPro.

Mike has an interesting story. He was around RPro from the beginning and he saw all of the changes. Unfortunately for Mike, he was involved in booking during the roughest time in RPro's history. He did the best he could under the circumstances. I would have liked to see what Mike could do with a full, consistent roster. and regular shows.

I know Mike is well loved within the RPro family. His work on all ends was certainly appreciated and respected. He helped RPro get through a tough period of transition and he also helped get The Resistance started.

He is one of the good guys and not just because he wore my shirt several times (although I do appreciate that). He loves video games, vinyl records, wrestling and photography, of course.

Tommy Else and I interviewed Mike as part of the Or Else podcast retelling of Tommy and RPro's history. As expected, Mike had some fantastic insight and some inside stories.

Check out our interview with Mike at Episode 34: Mike Vinikour Part 1 and Episode 35: Mike Vinikour Part 2. While you're there, check out the rest of the podcasts on the Or Else channel.

Mike Vinikour and me in Summit, IL-March 2015.

On the Beat with Resistance Pro at "Girls Girls Girls"

Last moth's Resistance Pro's "Girls Girls Girls" was another winner.  The Samuel J. Thompson Memorial event had a few new twists from a regular R Pro show.

First and foremost was the 8 woman tournament to gain a contract to R Pro.  Last year's tournament's winner Brady Pierce is now a rising young star for R Pro.  We will see what the future hold for Palmoa Star, but for right now, it holds a new trophy and that contract.

The show also featured an appearance by several members of the Chicago Bliss.  The 2013 Legends Football League champions acted as lumberjills for the 3 way tournament final match.  They even got involved in the post match action.

I talked to the tournament winner, Paloma, as well as Lylah Lodge, Devyn Nicole, Ray Lyn and Camron Star.  I also talked to Scotty Young, another young superstar of R Pro and Head Photog Mike Vinikour.  Eric St. Vaughn gave us a few minutes of his time after a few months of missing him.

These interviews can be found below and on the JohngysBeat.com YouTube channel under the Resistance Pro playlist.  I hope you enjoy learning a little more about all of these talented people.  I also hope you come to "The Battle Rages On," the next event, this Friday at St. Francis De Sales High School.