Friend Encounters: Mya Caras & Mike Pankow

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities.

Mike Pankow is the Dean of Chicago wrestling writers. Mike's Windy City Slam is a great place for wrestling recaps, interviews, calendars and more of Chicago area wrestling and the big companies, too. Mike is basically a one man show, although at times, he has used a few helpers, myself included. It's always a pleasure to contribute anything to Mike's work.

Rocket Pro Wrestling based in Joliet is one of Mike's regular coverage spots and justifiably so. First, he lives near there. Perhaps more important, Roclet Pro is one of the best companies around.

At the January RPW show, Mike was there early as usual, getting quotes, pictures, setting up interviews and more for future coverage. "The Muscle Mommy" Mya Caras was one of the many wrestlers Mike saw. Caras is a powerhouse.

I am very impressed with the little I have seen of her. I am curious to see where she fits in with RPW. They don't have a women's division or even women's matches. Will she battle men? Will they bring in more women?

From her looks and moves I have seen, I think she could be believable in battling men. Granted, it might be a stretch to see her face the bigger men like Marshe Rockett, but I could see her feuding with some of the others before hopefully settling into a new women's division. RPW is ready for a women's division.

For more info on Mike's work or RPW, go to WindyCitySlam.com. You can also go directly to RocketProWrestling.com.

Mike and Mya Caras in Joliet, IL-January 2025.

Wrestling and Roller Derby with Rion Skillz

I guess you can call Rion Skillz a two-sport athlete. A longtime friend from the wrestling scene, I was surprised to see Rion involved in roller derby.

I have known Rion for more than a decade, but he has been on the independent wrestling scene longer than that. He is one of Chicago's favorites for many good reasons.

When I went to my first Chicago Knockouts Roller Derby bouts, I was surprised to see Rion there. It really shouldn't have been a surprise though. I have often compared roller derby to wrestling. Both have colorful characters, fast action, incredible athletes and fast-paced matches. Both also unfairly get criticized for being fake.

While some of what you see is storyline-based, the action is still real. The bumps they take and moves they make prove their athletic ability. While neither may be true sports, both are athletic events.

For more info on Rion, and his sporting endeavors, go to RocketProWrestling.com and ChicagoKnockouts.com. If you want a real treat, go see him and the rest of the athletes at either or both!

Rion Skillz and me in Homewood, IL-November 2024.

On the Beat with Joey Roth

I have interviewed Joey Roth several times, but never like this. I have never even seen Joey like this.

Trouble had been brewing within the World Famous Fabulous Idols at Rocket Pro Wrestling. Things erupted at the October show, when he was attacked by the other idols with wife Roxi leading the charge. 

I'm not going to lie and say it's all real. That's not the point. Wrestling fans (well, most wrestling fans) are aware of storylines. The beauty of great wrestling is multi-layered storylines developing over a period of time. The best storylines keep fans guessing.

This is where the current Joey situation is shining. While I saw a break coming within the Idols, I had no idea how it would go and where it would lead. Now we get to see it played out.

Where does Joey go from here? Who aligns with Joey, if anyone does? Does Joey bring in someone new? Of course, there's also the possibility this is one huge swerve. You just never know.

Things will unfold at the Christmas Chaos show December 7, but I am sure the story won't end there. Like a good television show, you'll have to keep tuning in. 

This is one story worth watching. I know Joey well, but I have no inside info. I'm waiting and watching like everyone else.

Our interview can be found at On the Beat with Joey Roth, with the full story on the Joliet Patch. Also, check out rocketprowrestling.com for info and scheduling on all events.

Joey Roth and me in Joliet, IL-November 2024.

Friend Encounters: Roxi Heart, Joey Roth and Jim S.

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

Worlds collided in this picture. My longtime pal Jim met my other pals Joey Roth and Roxi Heart.

I've known Jim for many years. One of my earliest memories was about 15 years ago, when Jim and I were separately at an appearance by wrestling star Tammy "Sunny" Sytch. My camera jammed (these were the pre-phone cam days). Jim was taking pro photos, but he graciously took the pictures of me and later gave me the prints. Since then, we have gone to or met at many wrestling events.

Knowing he was a big wrestling fan, I turned him onto Rocket Pro Wrestling, based in Joliet, Illinois. Jim enjoyed the show, like I knew he would. After the show, I introduced him to Joey and Roxi, then leaders of the World Famous Fabulous Idols.

Joey and Roxi have been heat magnets at RPW. Fans love to hate them and they love being hated. It all just means they do their job well.

For more info on Joey, Roxi and RPW, go to rocketprowrestling.com. You won't want more info on Jim (lol), but you can look for him in future bits here.

Roxi Heart, Jim and Joey Roth in Joliet, IL-September 2022.

Rocket Pro Wrestling's Damien Grey

Damien Grey is one of the regulars on Rocket Pro Wrestling's events. As a member of the World Famous Fabulous Idols, Grey could function as in singles or tag matches.

Grey has an interesting gimmick. He's a bit of a greaser, tough guy, but he doesn't go over the top with it. It seems very natural. 

One of my favorite things from Grey was when I interviewed him. He started off by correcting me on his introduction. Again, it wasn't too much, but just enough character to make it interesting.

Our interview is at On the Beat with Damien Grey. Also, check rocketprowrestling.com for more info on Grey and the rest of the roster and events. Their next show is November 9. I hope to see you there.

 Damien Grey and me in Joliet, IL-September 2024.

The New Joey Roth Era?

Joey Roth is one of the most polarizing figures on the Chicago area wrestling scene. A charismatic heel like Rowdy Roddy Piper, Roth is either hated or loved. Actually, he is mostly lovingly hated.

All of that might have changed last Saturday at Rocket Pro Wrestling. Roth's World Famous Fabulous Idols, including his wife Roxi Heart, seem to have turned their back on their leader. Roth left the ring bloodied and with the much-needed help of officials.

What does this mean? While Roth is healing his physical and mental wounds at home, no doubt he is also planning. I know him well. He will not stay down and out. Roth will rise up.

With most truly hated villains in wrestling, the inevitable turn to the good side brings cheers aplenty. I think Roth as a good guy will bring down the house. I see Roth rising to new heights. He will be beloved like never before.

The question is how will the comeback play out? Who will side with Roth? There are many interesting possibilities.

The story will continue to unfold next month at Harvest Havoc on November 9 in Joliet. For more info, go to rocketprowrestling.com.

Joey Roth and me in Joliet, IL-October 2024.

Rocket Pro Champ Steve Michaels

I have known Steve Michaels for several years, but lately the man is on a roll. His Rocket Pro Heavyweight championship is just his latest title.

At the Rocket Pro Fan Fest, Steve was styling and profiling. I know I borrowed Ric Flair's line, but Steve was nattily attired, like Flair always was.

Steve is a great champ. Look at his size! He also moves well for a big man. He is a credible champ and represents the company well. Even at the Fan Fest, which was held on a scorching hot day, Steve dressed like a champ.

Rocket Pro is a great wrestling company. The production level is top notch. The wrestling is great, too. Shows start at 5 p.m. and usually end around 8:30. It's perfect timing for me. 

The next Rocket Pro Wrestling event is Darkness Falls this Saturday. Go to rocketprowrestling.com for more info on all of their events.

Steve Michaels and me in Joliet, IL-September 2024.

Back to Rocket Pro Wrestling

At the last Rocket Pro Wrestling show, Schelli and Steve Ahrendt faced Joey Roth and Roxi Heart in a mixed tag team match. The feud has been bubbling all season and was seemingly settled with the Woold Famous Fabulous Idols taking (or stealing) the win.

Schelli isn't really a wrestler, but she did fine in the ring. Her usual spot is at the broadcast table, but she is also the wife of Bill. Together they own and run Rocket Pro.

I have often said RPW is one of the best wrestling companies. Their shows are tight, top to bottom. Every match is excellent. It is often hard to pick the best (or worst) match of the night. I also enjoy the shows ending around 8 pm, instead of 11ish like many other shows.

Bill and Schelli are also very hands-on. You'll always see them at shows, but usually they are a blur as they take care of business. 

RPW has one more show for this season. Kicks on 66 runs May 4. They also will show the event on the big screen at Hollywood Cinema May 18. Then they have no shows for the summer. For more info, go to RocketProWrestling.com.

Schelli and me in Joliet, IL-April 2024.

On the Beat With Joey Roth and Steve Ahrendt of Rocket Pro Wrestling

One week ahead of the return of Rocket Pro Wrestling, I interviewed Joey Roth and Steve Ahrendt. At Darkness Falls, these two will be back in the same room, but for my interview, I kept them separated for obvious reasons.

This feud has been running a long time and it keeps getting hotter. Joey, along with Roxi Heart, is the leader of the World Famous Fabulous Idols. Commentator Steve now holds the newly-rechristened Main Event belt. That belt was previously called the Joey Roth belt, but this feud goes beyond that shiny belt, whatever it is called.

I attempted to get some peace, but I failed. I did get a fun interview though. These men are pumped and ready for action Saturday. Darkness Falls promises to be a great night of action, but there is no promise these two will ever see eye-to-eye.

Go to RocketProWrestling.com for more info and updates. Until then, enjoy the interview at On the Beat With Rocket Pro Wrestling.

Marshe Rockett at Rocket Pro Wrestling

It's just a cool name coincidence, but Marshe Rockett seems a natural for Rocket Pro Wrestling. When he becomes champ (and I believe he will), there are a lot of storyline and marketing ideas because of it.

I have known Marshe fo many years. I first met him when we worked together at Resistance Pro Wrestling. Call it scripted, but when Marshe won the RPro title, there was real emotion in his face and voice. That wasn't faked. That win and title meant something to Marshe.

That's just the type of wrestler he is. He cares for his craft. This isn't just a throwaway weekend gig. Marshe is one of the best on the independent scene. He has had several appearances in the big copanies, too. Marshe deserves all the success he gets, because on top of being an excellent wrestler, he is a class act.

One of the highlights for me covering RPW has been seeing Marshe and his family. If you're lucky enough to be friends with them online, you'll see plenty of heartwarming posts. Even though I follow them, I was a bit surprised at how big their eldest son is. It's great watching his family literally grow.

Marshe is just one fo the stars of RPW. He's one of the reasons why it is the fast-growing wrestling company around Chicago. It quickly is becoming the favorite of so many fans.

I really think Marshe will eventually capture the title. Then will he rename it Rockett Pro Wrestling?

RPW's next show is Darkness Falls on Saturday, October 14. It promises to be full of suprises as usual. Go to RocketProWrestling.com for more info on that event.

Marshe Rockett and me in Joliet, IL-September 2023.

 

On the Beat With Steve Ahrendt of Rocket Pro Wrestling

Fresh off of the season debut of Rocket Pro Wrestling, I went on the Beat with RPW commentator Steve Ahrendt. That interview can be found at On the Beat With Steve Ahrendt.

Last Saturday, RPW held Fall Brawl, its season debut. It started with a fun Fan Axxess outdoor event, followed by a full early evening of fantastic wrestling.

Last week, I interviewed Joey Roth and Roxi Heart of the World Famous, Fabulous Idols. Always in the mix of the title scene and the center of the action, the pair definitely made their presence felt at Fall Brawl.

After interviewing the pair and watching the all that happened at Fall Brawl, I wanted to get Ahrendt for an interview to get his take on all things at RPW. As usual, Ahrendt gave a thorough assessment of the situation. He also discussed Darkness Falls, the next RPW show on October 14.

I appreciate Ahrendt for his time and consideration in the interview. I also thank RPW owner Bill Schelli and the entire RPW family for the hospitality.

Go to RocketProWrestling.com for more info and scheduling. Look for Steve (and the others) on The Power Hour n podcast platforms.

Rocket Pro Wrestling Returns!

Rocket Pro Wrestling returns today. The World Famous Fabulous Idols Joey Roth and Roxi Heart are not scheduled to be part of the show, but I'm betting they will make an appearance.

The pair remained tight-lipped about the possibilities, but history states Joey and Roxi will not sit on the sidelines. They are always part of the action.

I wrote more about the actual show on Rocket Pro Wrestling Returns on the Joliet Patch. Almost every match is a title match on a loaded card.

Why aren't the WFFI on the card? Last season ended with a betrayal and the WFFI seemingly down. Anyone who knows them, knows they don't stay down long and things are never as they seem with them. Joey and Roxi always have aces (yes, several) up their sleeves. Saturday, some of those aces should be revealed. I can't wait t see what happens.

I will be "On the Beat" as always. I'll be getting more interiews and info, which I will recap here and on the Joliet Patch.

Watch the interview at On the Beat With Joey Roth and Roxi Heart of Rocket Pro Wrestling. Check RocketProWrestling.com for info and updates.

On the Beat With Damien Saint

My recurring coverage of Rocket Pro Wrestling turned to Damien Saint, the General Manager. My interview with him is at On the Beat With Damien Saint. 

As always, I asked about his path to wrestling, his favorites, his path to RPW and his role in RPW. Saint told some interesting stories, including one involving Jake "The Snake" Roberts.

As interesting as that all was, the best part of the interview for me was hearing Saint delve into the psychology involved in being a referee or a manager. It's unique insight, showing how much effort he puts into his craft.

This should be mandatory for newbie wrestling fans, but possibly even more for those who have disdain for wrestling. His thoughts are similar to those of Joey Roth of the World Famous Fabulous Idols. Coincidentally, Roth and the Idols are rumored to have an alliance with Saint, an allegation Saint denies.  

Go to RocketProWrestling.com for more info on Saint and all the talent at RPW. Also, check TheEveryDayFan.com for more wrestling coverage.

On the Beat at Rocket Pro Wrestling

Yesterday I had a couple interviews with talented folks from Rocket Pro Wrestling​. I got interesting info and insight. I didn't get all of the answers to the major questions at RPW, but I got new perspectives.

​I started with Gunner Brave. As part of the World Famous Fabulous Idols, Gunner is right in the middle of all sorts of action.

As usual, I got a little background first. Trained by Seth Rollins among others, Gunner gave his thoughts on the WWE superstar. He also talked about his first match, his finisher, his first title win and more from the early stages of his career.

From there we moved to his feelings on crowd reactions, whether he works as a fan favorite or a heel. I saw another side of the man who currently wrestles “on the dark side” with the Idols.

Of course, we had to delve into the latest happenings with the group. At the last RPW show and the aftermath, there seemed to be a bit of dissension in the group, although leader Joey Roth dismisses such notions. Gunner admits there was a minor situation, but states all is fine within the Idols. I am not so sure about that, but “Darkness Falls” on October 1 might provide more answers to that.

Gunner is a young wrestler on the rise with an incredibly bright future. Whether or not his future lies with the Idols is to be seen. Either way, he looks to continue to improve and become one of the bright young independent stars.

It was interesting learning more about Gunner. Although he is in the Idols, who are causing all kinds of issues at RPW, he has a genuine appreciation for RPW and the fans. Gunner stresses respect, both giving and receiving. I already respected Gunner for his accomplishments at such an early point in his career, but I gained a whole new level of respect after this interview.

The next chapter in his story will come on October 1 at “Darkness Falls.” He issued an open challenge and it was accepted. Gunner ends the interview discussing this matchup.

Those interviews are at On the Beat With Gunner Brave and On the Beat With Rion Skillz and Steve Ahrendt. Also, check TheEveryDayFan.com for more wrestling coverage. Also, check RocketProWrestling.com for more info and news.

On the Beat With Timmy "Too Sweet" of Rocket Pro Wrestling

There are many parts of a professional wrestling show. While the wrestlers get most of the attention, and rightly so, there are many other folks who contribute to the show.

One of those staffers is the one who usually starts the show, the ring announcer. At Rocket Pro Wrestling, the ring announcer is Timmy “Too Sweet.”

I wanted to interview Timmy because he is entertaining and a big part of the RPW production, but also to show you don't have to be an athletic in-ring performer to be a part of pro wrestling. Timmy is a great example of that. That interview is at On the Beat With Timmy "Too Sweet" of Rocket Pro Wrestling.

Timmy described how he went from being a fan to starting his ring announcing career. It wasn't a lifelong goal. He didn't start In his teens. Still, once given the opportunity, he dove in with passion and worked hard to hone his craft.

Along those lines, Timmy talked about his announcing style. He mentioned a few announcing role models and talked about pre-event preparation and post-event conditions.

Of course, Timmy discussed the shows and crowds at RPW. Hype (and overhype) is natural in the world of pro wrestling, but as I witnessed first hand last weekend, the hype about the RPW crowd is real. The louder the crowd got, and it was rock concert level loud, the louder Timmy had to get to make his announcements. 

After making the transition from fan to worker, Timmy talked about seeing wrestling from a new viewpoint. He also discussed the fun and surprise of signing autographs and meeting fans.

Timmy ended by putting over Darkness Falls, RPW's next show on October 1 in Joliet, Illinois. The show features “The Icon” Grin facing “All Day” Marshe Rockett in a casket match. This would be a main event level match anywhere. Grin is seasoned veteran who came out of a semi-retirement for RPW. Despite his devilish ways, he became quite a fan favorite. On the other hand, long time good guy Rockett seems to have had a change of heart. 

This was an especially fun interview for me. I have known Timmy and his wife (RPW photog Missy) for a long time, from our mutual love of comic cons. It was great seeing them again last weekend.

I appreciate Timmy for his time and consideration. Check back here and TheEveryDayFan.com for my wrestling interviews and other wrestling coverage. 

On the Beat With Joey Roth and Roxi Heart

Today, I feature a 2fer interview. I talked to Joey Roth and Roxi Heart about the latest happenings at Rocket Pro Wrestling (On the Beat With Joey Roth and Roxi Heart). Then I talked to their alter egos Scott and Elizabeth about their upcoming performance in "The Tempest" at the GreenMan Theatre Troupe (On the Beat With Scott and Elizabeth).

Joey, Roxi and the World Famous Fabulous Idols are heat magnets at Rocket Pro Wrestling. Due to events from the previous show, they are now in charge of RPW. Things aren't all smooth though. There are lingering issues with announcer Steve Ahrendt and simmering problems with Gunner Brave. Joey and Roxi discuss all of this and more about RPW. 

Their talents aren't confined to the wrestling ring, however. The wrestling power couple will soon be performing together in The GreenMan Theatre Troupe's production of "The Tempest" in Elmhurst, Illinois. They talk about their acting backgrounds, performing together, the GreenMan Theatre and more.

Enjoy the interviews and check back here for my recurring coverage of RPW and wrestling. Also, check GreenManTheatre.org and RocketProWrestling.com for more info on these entertainment companies. 

On the Beat With Grin of Rocket Pro Wrestling

I interviewed Grin, one of my long-time favorite wrestlers. More formally known as Grin N Barrett, he is a veteran of the Chicago area wrestling scene.

I last interviewed Grin about 10 years ago. I was surprised to learn I was his first interview after coming out of retirement back then.

It was long overdue to get an update interview with him. After stepping away from the ring a few years ago, Grin once again was pulled back into the squared circle. This time, Rocket Pro Wrestling lured him back. This was the perfect time to get that update.

The powers that be at RPW were wise to coax Grin back into active duty. Recognizing Grin was a major player at Pro Wrestling Blitz in Joliet, RPW management knew their fans in the same area would welcome him back and they have.

In our interview, Grin returns the love and appreciation for RPW and his fans. He does admit it is odd at times, since Grin is a bit of a sinister character. Like some wrestlers who are so good at being bad, they get cheered, Grin has heard the cheers for years and has had to adjust his character accordingly.

Grin also talked about his teenage daughter. Part of his reason for returning is for her to see him in action. He also discussed what she thinks of her dad the wrestler and if she has a future in the business.

Of course, we had to discuss his upcoming Heavyweight championship title defense against Christian Rose at Fall Brawl September 10. As I have covered in other interviews here, the Fabulous Idols are running the show, but Grin might have a few tricks up his sleeve, too. He likes the title belt and plans on keeping it.

I won't don facepaint, but I will be “On the Beat” at Fall Brawl and will recap it here. Check back here for all my coverage of Rocket Pro Wrestling.

On the Beat With Jonny Nigh and Damien Grey

Yesterday, I conducted separate interviews with Jonny Nigh and Damien Grey, tag team champions at Rocket Pro Wrestling. I would usually write a piece for each, but it seemed to make sense to do these together. Those interviews are at On the Beat with Jonny Nigh and On the Beat With Damien Grey.

Both Grey and Nigh are cocky, brash and confident. As tag team champions, they probably have earned that right though. Despite their boastfulness, they gave a look at their careers before and during their time as a team and as part of the Fabulous Idols, led by Joey Roth and Roxi Heart.

Nigh talked about his unusual start in wrestling. While not a lifelong dream, wrestling quickly became Nigh's passion once he got started. Things really seemed to fall together once he joined the Fabulous Idols. His dedication to the group earned him the spot as Roth's second in command.

Outside of the ring, Nigh is a successful musician. He even wrote and performed his entrance theme. That feat puts him ahead of the Road Dogg in terms of musical wrestlers. Several wrestlers have had music gimmicks (The Honky Tonk Man, Van Hammer, Jeff Jarrett), but few have legit music careers. 

Holding the other tag team strap, Grey is the less experienced, but equally as bold as Nigh. Grey started our interview by teaching me the way to do a proper introduction. Once he set me straight, Grey talked about his start in wrestling, unfortunately in the Covid era. Still, Grey wrestled when he could, building his match resume.

I asked Grey about soaking it all in. He'll be quick to tell all that fans should enjoy the moment he's in the ring, but he also discussed his emotions. I followed that by asking about fans. As a heel, how does he deal with fans. Once again, Grey gave an interesting response.

Of course, both men previewed Fall Brawl in Joliet, Illinois on September 10. Through a series of events, the Fabulous Idols are in charge of everything. That could lead to anything. More specific to Nigh and Grey, they defend the RPW Tag Team championship against No Coast. Naturally, both agreed they would keep the titles. With the Fabulous Idols in charge, who knows what type of chicanery will be utilized in that match and all night. I know Roth well and he certainly will have a few tricks to play that night.  Even RPW owner Bill Schelli has no idea what might happen.

I will be "On the Beat" at Fall Brawl, covering all the action. Check back here and TheEveryDayFan.com for my recap and other wrestling coverage.

On the Beat With Bill Schelli of Rocket Pro Wrestling

The world of pro wrestling is full of fascinating characters and stories. Bill Schelli is definitely an interesting character and how he got started in pro wrestling is a unique story.

Yesterday, for The Every Day Fan, I interviewed Bill, the owner/promoter of Rocket Pro Wrestling in Joliet, Illinois. I learned all about him and RPW. That interview is at On the Beat With Bill Schelli.

A long-time wrestling fan, Bill tells how his son's college graduation led him into pro wrestling. Eventually, Bill started RPW in Joliet, the former home of the long-running, successful Pro Wrestling Blitz company.

In its fifth year, RPW is gaining rave reviews from fans, wrestlers and critics. Bill talks about the challenges of running an indy wrestling company, the help he receives from his Knights of Columbus brethren, St. Joseph's parish, the Joliet community and more, including a preview of the upcoming Fall Brawl.

On September 10, RPW presents Fall Brawl, featuring a double main event of a 20-man Rocket Rumble and an RPW championship match. In keeping with the family friendly goal, Fall Brawl starts at 5 pm.

Creating and keeping a family atmosphere is important to Bill. Early shows allow more kids to attend. You won't see any offensive merchandise nor hear improper language from anyone involved. 

When Bill lists some of the talented folks at RPW, it's a mix of the biggest and most popular names on the area. Marshe Rocket, Christian Rose, Those damn Coyotes, Steve Michaels and Cody James are just a few of the many stars appearing at Fall Brawl. Bill also coaxed Grin, one of my all-time favorites, out of retirement to join the RPW roster.

Of course the discussion had to include Joey Roth and Steve Ahrendt (both of whom I recently interviewed). Through a series of events, Joey and his Fabulous idols are now in charge of RPW. Where does that leave Bill, announcer Steve and the rest of the crew? Some answers will be revealed at Fall Brawl, but knowing Joey, he will have a few new surprises.

Bill has invited The Every Day Fan and me to Fall Brawl. If my schedule allows, I will be there, but either way I will report the results here. Until then, I hope to have a couple RPW wrestlers for interviews.

Thank you to Bill for his time and consideration. I look forward to updates and more interviews involving RPW. Check out RocketProWrestling.com for more info and news and TheEveryDayFan.com for more of my wrestling coverage.