Tuesday, August 13, 2019

Lisa Marie Varon at Wizard World 2013

Wizard World comes to Rosemont August 22-25. I'll be "On the Beat" there, but for now, I am recalling some of my favorite times at Wizard World over the years.
Lisa Marie Varon wrestled as Tara and Victoria in the WWE and Impact Wrestling. She won 7 Women's singles titles between both companies. She was also named the 2004 Woman of the Year by Pro Wrestling Illustrated.
Like may Chicagoans, I became friendly with Lisa during her stay in Chicago, when she opened The Squared Circle restaurant on the north side. It was a major hangout for Chicago area wrestlers and many bigger names, too. It wasn't just a pace to mingle with wrestlers though. They served really good food. I went there many times and always had a great meal, whether it was pizza, appetizers or other meals. Watching major WWE PPV's was an added bonus.
There were so many times we went there and talked at length with Lisa. It was not uncommon for her to join people at their tables and just chat for a while. It wasn't typical restaurant owner hand-shaking. She would actually spend decent amounts of time with people/ It was a fantastic experience every time there.
Unfortunately good times sometimes don't last, which is why you must enjoy them while they exist. There was a robbery at the restaurant and there were some issues with her marriage. She later got divorced and the restaurant closed. It was the end of an era and The Squared Circle is sorely missed. There is nothing like it out there.
I think I have seen Lisa a couple times since she left. It is always a good time. Lisa is a real sweetheart.
Go to WizardWorld.com for more info and scheduling. Also, follow Wizard World on Facebook for more updates and announcements.
Jason Fleigel, Lisa Marie Varon and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2013.

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