Getting Back on Track

Been a bit since I've done a "War on Dad Blog" post. In fairness, it's been a fairly busy 10 days. Lots of travel, a lovely family event, and the arduous process of moving homes. So it's not like I've been an inactive slob (ish) but time away from the gym does funny things to my brain and sense of self worth. I'd had every intention of staying on pace with the weight room - I'd been on a hell of a streak throughout July.

However. Life gets in the way.

That said, I did learn a few things.

That plan I wrote to reincorporate some heavy basic lifts? The one with some powerlifting / mobility days? 

Abject failures. Not the mobility parts, those have been very useful and stuff I now do before every workout for a bit to thoroughly warm up. 

But the heavier stuff?

Yeah, dude. You're old. None of that shit is good for your joints no matter how careful or smart you think you're being.

So, instead the more hypertrophic lifts and extra core and cardio focus has been very helpful. even on days without lifting, the active rest of hitting a treadmill for an incline walk for 45 minutes has been good. That and the in ring cardio has been good.

Plus, I actually managed to get some proper sleep this last week. So, while I want to kick myself for a lack of "effort" the truth is, I needed a de-load / rest week.

But that's done now. I've got 2 matches this month to defend the BPW Provincial Champion, and as the "True Canadian Heavyweight Champ" I need to focus on being ready.

As such:

Aug 10
Back and Biceps
Warm Up
Hammer Grip PullDown - 200 x 8, 8, 7, 6, 6
TBar Row - 3plt x 10, 8, 6, 6
Bentover Row - 205lb x 8, 8, 8, 8
Complete Barbell Curl - 65lb x 12, 12, 12, 12, 12
DB Curl / Lat PressDown - 30lb / 50 x 15, 15, 15
Hyperextension - BW x 15, 15

Not gonna lie, after that my entire back feels tight as a drum right now. But that's okay. I needed that reset lift to get my system back online. Tried to keep a good pace between sets, shorter rest breaks and really focused on the negatives. Took the weights down a bit lower than I had 2 weeks ago for safety and left a bit in the tank just in case.

Overall. A Good session.

AK

LINKTREE

Recap and Refocus

Been a few days without writing. Sorry about that for all 12-25 of you who regularly check this out. Didn't mean to check out on you. Between work and life and KEYCON and figuring out a house move its been a bit of a whirlwind. So much so that my "war on Dad Blog" posts have taken a bit of a slide - just at perfect time as well, since I'm trying to up my conditioning for a big match at the end of June.

Life. It'll getcha when you least expect it to.

Anyways, I hit a work out tonight. I feel better in all the ways that only endorphins can handle. I'll post the recap at the end just for posterity and then we'll move forward.

Quick Hits of thoughts from the past week.

- KEYCON 41 was a very fun experience. The local literary sci-fi convention was (hopefully) a big success for the volunteers and organizers of the event. Having the chance to reconnect with people i know and haven't seen in ages from all parts of the creative and frankly Nerdy Community was awesome. I want to thank Chris for inviting me to speak and host the panels I was able to be a part of, most certainly the "Page to Screen: A discussion with Jim Butcher and Tanya Huff" panel on Saturday.

It's no secret to anyone who knows me that I am a BIG fan of Mr. Butcher's "Dresden Files" series, so having the opportunity to meet, discuss some things about his process as well as thank him for his work while he generously signed a copy of his book "Changes" for me was honestly super cool.

What's also Super Cool? Being remembered by Ms. Tanya Huff from the ONE time we met a decade before - also at KEYCON - and finding out once again what an amazing and engaging soul she is. A true pleasure and a gift to the Canadian Literary community.

And to all of the other creatives I met over the weekend, thank you for sharing your ideas, your work and your passion with the world. At the end of the day, we all create worlds and stories to explore those parts of ourselves that we see reflected in others. And it's always awesome talking process and ideas and struggles and more with you all. Plus, so many people wanted copies of my books which - man , just lets a Big fella know that his work is being appreciated. So thank you all.

It's Official!

- So, since I was inspired by all of the creativity this past weekend, I locked in a "Must Publish date" for the 4th Book in my OVERDRIVE series. I know, it's been a few years since Book 3 and I'm sorry for that. Getting my head together has been a struggle. However, I can officially say, that "POWER PLAY: Book 4 of OVERDRIVE" will be available to purchase on January 31st, 2026. So, keep hassling me y'all. I'm gonna need the pokes to keep me on task to hit my deadline.

- Just briefly, so much love to my Winnipeg Jets for an amazing season. Even in defeat - during some heartbreaking events and news - our Jets played their asses off and were only one shot away from forcing another Game 7. Absolutely no quit in that team, and some excellent Leadership and Class shown by everyone involved. God damn I love hockey.

- Finally, the wrestling portion. I return to the Blaze Pro Wrestling training centre Wednesday evening.

Practice, practice, practice

Rookies, consider yourself forewarned. Not sure exactly what I'm gonna be working with you all on, but I'm bringing my boots and the old man wants to work some aches and pains out of his system. Come in with ideas and things you want to try from your "tape study" for when we open up the freestyle portion of the class.

As promised, here was tonight's workout. Nothing to set the world on fire, but since it was my first lift in 4 days, it was past time.

BACK w/Biceps
Seated Cable Row - 2 Warm up sets, 220 x 8,8,8,8
Meadows Row - 2 plates (90lbs ish) x 10, 10, 10
EZ Bar Curl - 90lbs x 12, 12, 12, 12
Lat Pulldown - 175 x 12, 12, 12
DB Curl - 40lb x 12, 12, 12, 15

Like I said, just a get back into it session. I'll be pushing a bit more this week, no question.

Thanks to you all. Please check the LINKTREE. Be back soon.

AK

I'll See YOU at KEYCON 2025!!!

Much to my surprise,  a few weeks ago I received an invite from the organizers of KEYCON 2025 to take part in some panels, give new readers a chance to see what my words / books are all about and to mingle a bit with the local Genre Fandom.

Needless to say, I've flattered and excited to have been invited.

For those not in the know (and for SHAME if that to be the case) KEYCON is the long-running, not-for-profit, volunteer-run literary and genre convention held every year in Winnipeg over the Victoria Day Long Weekend. Activities and games with focuses on science fiction, fantasy, and all related genres within the mediums of writing, visual arts, television, and film.

JIM BUTCHER

KEYCON is a community-focused event, with a smaller, more personal experience compared to larger conventions. It's been a family-oriented event for many years with kids who're now bringing THEIR kids to take part in the activities going forward.

Obvious as a science-fiction / speculative fiction (wannabe) author myself it's always a thrill to take part, never mind be invited to participate. Especially this year  as I've been invited not only to take part in 5 separate panels, I will also be moderating one featuring the Literary Guests of Honour this year at KEYCON 41.

This Saturday May 18th at 3PM at the Hilton Winnipeg Airport Suites Hotel, I will be moderating a panel featuring renowned science-fiction and fantasy authors TANYA HUFF and JIM BUTCHER, where we will talk about the adaptation of their books from "Page to Screen" and the challenges within.

TANYA HUFF

 For more information about KEYCON 41, the schedule of events, activities, pricing and more - please check out their website HERE.

And yes, I'll have books and tee-shirts on hand for anyone interested .

Yes. I am very excited and am looking forward to this very much. 

See you this weekend!

AK

LINKTREE

Interesting Opportunities, Trainees Progressing, War on Dad Blog Continues

Here's where I'm not sure what to say that doesn't sound like a "look at me, I have news and can't tell

#VaguePosting

you yet" kind of thing. But , well... Fingers crossed that the email exchange I've been having the last week or so with an event coordinator will be giving me more opportunity to plug the "Reading" aspect of this blog's title. I've always tried to be the kind of person to under promise and over deliver and keep potential opportunities close to the vest to avoid disappointments, however: I feel pretty good about this one.

Regardless, when it becomes official, I'll be sure to hashtag-humble-brag all about it. And in the event that it falls through, I'll talk about it anyways and why I was excited.

Still, could be very cool. Plus, it's even more incentive to get more diligent with my book-writing stuff (not that this blog isn't cool et all.)

*** 

Get Up Drills

Last night at the Blaze Pro Wrestling Centre we had a very good session. I've not been able to attend as many recently as I've been able to in the recent past, which sucks because I very much like getting in the ring, sharing knowledge and pushing myself - as I may have stated a time or 12 in previous blog posts. 

This session was interesting for a number of reasons. A good number of our trainees are really coming into their own which is honestly, super gratifying to see. While we had a group last night of members at varying levels of proficiency - every one of them has shown marked improvement in the past few weeks alone. 

It really is amazing to see the light bulb beginning to go off behind their eyes as what once seemed a completely foreign idea is now just becoming another tool in the toolbox.

Sure. More work to do. For me too - this old man ain't exactly in fighting shape these days. However, for any one of the BPW crew reading this - I meant every word last night. You're doing great, and you're only going to get better if you keep working as hard as you are.

***

And speaking of hard work. No gym last night since I was in ring coaching the "kids" instead. And while I didn't get as physical as I normally do, that's probably a good thing. The change up I've made to my resistance training has been very effective and I've been feeling the difference in my muscles - even if it looks no different from the outside. As such, making sure I've got adequate rest between lifts really is a good thing. these old joints ain't getting any more flexible sadly.

April 8, 2025
Shoulders w/Chest and Triceps

Mach OHP - 60 x 10, 80 x 10, 100 x 10, 120 x 10, 130 x 10, 140 x 10, 150(rack) x 7,6 (a big achievement for me - I've been avoiding OHP for years due to joint pain)
Smith Low Incline Press - 205 x 6, 8, 7, 5, 5 (prev exercise wore me out, next time start lower)
DB Upright Row - 40lb x 15, 15, 15
DB Side Lat Raise - 30lb x 15, 15, 15
Rev Grip Tricep Ext - 50 x 15, 60 x 15, 70 x 15
Tricep Extension - 70 x 15, 15, 15
Peck Fly - 160 x 15, 15, 15

Terrific pump after this. A bit lower volume on the chest on purpose. I really want to try and bring my shoulders back into focus as I feel like they've been neglected a lot recently. So, this so far feels like it's working pretty great.

While I didn't do any focused cardio after that session I justified it with all of the personal item sorting, box moving and home prepping I've been doing lately. Yay real Estate game. Worth it, but still... 

If anyone cares I have a few other items for sale up on Marketplace. I'll understand if said items are too geeky for you and you want to shame me for even having these items. But they've given me so much enjoyment over the years and I'm happy to pass them along to new folks should they desire.

More to come when I have more to say.

AK

BOOKS
SHIRTS
EVENTS

E-Book, Paperback and Hardcover Available

Pro Wrestling: The Purest Form of Storytelling

As I was working with the trainees at the Blaze Pro Wrestling academy yesterday we got into the discussion of motivations. Of personal and character development. Focusing on the WHYs of action and intention as opposed to "just the moves." 

For sure. The moves are cool. Even essential. That's the sizzle to season the steak, if you'll permit an oft overused metaphor. 

However, without the WHY in that ring nothing else matters.

Again, not a new opinion. Speak to any respected veteran with a podcast and they'll tell you much the same thing.

Here's where I can draw those parallels to movie making and books and other forms of entertainment and get the same point across. Why is the John Wick franchise so captivating in comparison to one of any dozen direct-to-streaming action franchises that also have terrific action? It's because of the WHY. Of the drive and dedication of the performers and craftspeople involved to bring you a multilayered story that also delivers some of the greatest action seen in cinema history.

Side note, for a deeper dive into the layered storytelling and themes of John Wick, please check out the amazing video essays done by Mikey Neuman of "FilmJoy" Fame:

But getting back to my thesis statement, Why do I think Pro Wrestling is the Purest Form of Storytelling?

In Pro Wrestling we as performers - athletes - clowns - bookers - competitors have the broadest canvas possible with which to tell and re-tell some of the greatest stories possible to a wide audience. An audience that ranges from little wee children all the way up to those grandparents in the front row trying to smack the "Bad Guys" with her cane (RIP Gracie, you were amazing).

When we first start out training wrestlers, the emphasis is so heavily focused on the action. About being safe and protecting yourself, which is absolutely how it should be. In process of doing that, we also "protect the business" as it were, ensuring that the performers we put in front of a crowd will be able to lend their creativity and efforts in a way to illicit the response from the paying customer who's more often than not only a few feet away from the action. This is admittedly a longer process for most than you'd think since the best way learn is often times by diving feet first into the ring and making mistakes live in front of said audience.

But the benefit of this is where we can begin to tell the simplest of stories with these wrestlers. In my mind I equate them to the "Little Golden Books" of matches, where a viewer of any age can watch and without to much effort get a grasp of what's going on.

For example: Young up-and-comer is nervous but excited to compete and prove themselves against the wily veteran who knows the craft better and isn't afraid to take advantage of the newbies' inexperience. Will the newcomer have the fortitude to stand strong? Will they be true to themselves? Will the veteran resort to chicanery and foul play? Will they welcome the new wrestler warmly and have a purely competitive bout?

And most importantly, who is going to win?

Every match - exactly like every book, movie, TV show etc - has so many variations on the same theme. Will The Protagonist face the challenge before them and show grit , perseverance and moxie even when The Antagonist lays roadblocks and obstacles in their path to challenge and defeat their ambition.

These stories - these matches - only get more complex and nuanced as time goes on. As performers get enough reps in, if they have the privilege to travel and see the world - to see how other countries and cultures perform their wrestling - they will learn how to layer in so many different variations on this theme. They will learn how to show conflicts within themselves. To show regret for their actions. Show righteous indignation and validations for wrongs done to them that are then repaid onto the dastardly bastards who've earned them.

Saying "Pro Wrestling is like a Morality Play" is obviously accurate. But I don't think it goes far enough to describe the nuances that are possible within different matches on the same card.

I don't think there are any other mediums (especially not LIVE mediums) where during one 2 Hour Event, you can literally have multiple stories that will appeal to all ages. From the "Little Golden Book" style Little Good Guy vs Bad Bully encounters all the way up to a John Wick-Style violent exhibition of a wronged individual fighting for revenge where no quarter will be asked or given. 

Pro wrestling can contain love stories. Stories of individuals overcoming personal adversities. Tales of friendship and betrayal and horror and comedy ... oh God, so much comedy.

But through it all, when done right - Pro Wrestling is Pure.

Because it can be anything, for anyone at any time. 

And that is kinda magical.

Thanks for reading. Please check the links. 

AK

BOOKS

SHIRTS

EVENTS

My Blathervation with Ken Napzok

I've been having a good time posting clips from this fun chat with Ken Napzok almost 2 years ago for his series #The Blathering on @YouTube. One of my favorite conversations ever in many ways - well, favorite recorded convos anyway. We both got very honest and candid about struggles we have as people, as men and more.

Ostensibly we connected over our love of Star Wars and Wrestling, but as we've become friends (one day even the kind of friends that get to sit down and share some coffee in like person!) we've found wider interests and shared opinions about the state of the world. Toxic Masculinity. Finding our place in society. How we changed as men over the years.

And vulnerability. My good ness we showed vulnerability.

Of course, we also were funny and used some curse words. So don't worry, it's not just 2 gray beards kvetching about the state of the world.

Though we do that too.

Please check out the video here. Or if you'd prefer, all of Ken's work is available as audio podcasts on every major streaming platform.

Ken is a great person and a good friend. Please consider giving his Channel a SUBSCRIBE and "Smash that Like Button". Also, check out his BOOK Why I Love Star Wars, a collection of Essays about our Favorite Galaxy Far, Far Away.

Let's do this again soon Ken. Either on your show or Mine (once I finally get it going of course)

AK

BOOKS

SHIRTS
SUPPORT

Where Do We Go From Here?

More than just a poppy tune from the classic episode of a cult TV show, the title of this blog asks an important question of myself.

One that I've pondered many times over the last decade or so.

When I broke into wrestling in 1995 the thought of still lacing up my boots and getting into the ring in my late 40s seemed preposterous. Hell, as I turned the corner on 30 I'd started to refer to myself as the "Old Man" of the Central Canadian circuit.

Oh hubris … you cruel bitch.

The fact is that I've had many milestones and life events where I figured - this is it. This is the time to quit. Now, in this moment.

And somehow - for some reason - I persist.

I have nothing left to prove. I have few challenges left to conquer. I have a decent reputation amongst my peers across the industry for those familiar with my work. Moreover, I have no illusions that one of the major wrestling companies will suddenly pluck me from the indies and offer me a lucrative deal to perform on the road (Though, if anyone from WWE / AEW / TNA are wondering - yes, I would consider an offer.)

During 2 years of COVID Lockdown I - like many - put everything on hold, obviously including grappling in close quarters with other people in front of crowds. In many ways I thought for sure, this is the end. What would I come back to?

And for a time, I thought that was the case. I was wrestling, but not particularly enjoying the process. In fairness, I wasn't enjoying many things in my life at that time. Wrestling amongst them.

But now?

Man … I'm having fun again.

What Billy Blaze and his partners have done with @BlazeProWrestling has been so encouraging. Investing in presentation, product and most importantly - a legitimate facility to have regular training sessions has been a game changer. Having the privilege to lace up my boots and work with some hungry up and comers, polish the rough corners of some more experienced types, and just work on myself and my game has been so rewarding. 

Yeah. It's harder at my age. Yeah. I'm beat up and heavier than I was in my youth.

Turns out though, I'm having more fun in the ring now than I've had in maybe a decade or more.

So. Where do we go from here?

First stop; "Blaze Pro Wrestling's: No Regrets " Feb 28th, 480 Tissot St in Winnipeg. The BPW

The BPW Founder, my recent rival but better friend Billy Blaze and I will be taking on Big Cliff and The Masked Menace in what should be a violent, final encounter. Big Cliff has been a thorn in my side for months now, so... it's time to end this. 

Other standouts on the card? BPW Provincial Champion MENTALLO will defend his title! El Blanco Diablo will face veteran Bobby Collins. Plus, Cory Diamond, fan-favorite Mustachio and more will be in action!

At the event you'll have the chance to get your hands on print copies of my debut novel COWBOY ENDING that I'll be happy to sign and personalize for the CanLit Urban Fantasy reader in your family.

Also, the anticipated OUTLAW 30TH Anniversary Shirt will be available in Limited Sizes - thanks to Cory and the crew at Floodway Print Co for their continued quality work and service. 

After that?

Well, I've been enjoying dusting out the brain cobwebs by working on my blogs (this one and of course the War on Dad Blog). While it's nice to have these going again, the purpose is to get the ball rolling forward on the 4th Book in my Overdrive series. For those who've been waiting? I'm sorry. For those who haven't been, hey - I also write books!!

Finally - because Gods Hate a Coward - I think I'm actually gonna pull the trigger on launching a podcast. For the longest time I've hesitated thinking it was too hard, I don't have anything to say, there are too many podcasts … All of that is nonsense. I like to talk about the things I like, I know many people who'd like to talk about them with me on occasion.

So screw it.

Keep an eye out for "Ringside Ramblings with Adam Knight" where I'll talk about the creative process, people on a fitness journey, and of course what's happening in the world of pro wrestling. The goal is to launch Episode Zero by the end of March. So please, be sure to give it a Like / Follow / Subscribe and all that other online stuff.

So yeah. That's where we go from here. The "Back 9" of my in ring time continues so long as I keep having fun.

And I'm having fun.

AK

Passing Things on to the Next Generation, Intentionally or Not

Yeah, Yeah. It's been awhile. Whatever.

Moving on.

For the entirety of my daughters' still very young life, I have had the same hope for her when it comes to my life in Pro Wrestling. 

"Ugh, yeah. My Dad used to do that stuff. It's so weird."

This is what I'd hoped that she would say.

Fervently hoped.

Still hope.

Yet here we are now watching WWE RAW on Netflix together. She has a zillion questions about how things work. Who the stars are? Who makes the costumes? Is it fun to ring announce? 

To my gratitude, at present the one question I am dreading has yet to be asked.

"Papa, could I be a wrestler?"

Just writing that makes my heart skip a beat.

Because, I am conflicted. So conflicted.

Yes, in 2025 the wrestling landscape has changed. While obviously there are still so many carny, scuzz-ball types that will try to take advantage of anyone and everybody (especially young girls just trying to break into the industry - not naming any names here, you know who you are) I would be a complete liar to suggest that things aren't significantly better for women in the wrestling business today.

On RAW alone I'm watching back to back segments where the ladies are front and centre having competitive battles for their own needs - and not just as Bechtel Test failures. Toni Storm and the ladies on AEW are killing it creatively and athletically. TNA has been pioneering with their ladies division for years and producing top notch stars. STARDOM in Japan remains a haven for the ladies. SHIMMER in the states, CMLL in Mexico, Premier British Wrestling in the UK … its truly a viable option.

And yet... I remember what it was like. I remember seeing (and being too cowardly to stop) ladies being taken advantage of by small minded assholes in perceived positions of power. I've spoken to ladies from the generations before me and heard their tales of woe and despair.

So yes. I am conflicted.

At some point, my little angel may (or please Lord, please) may not ask the question about getting more involved. As of now, just occasionally coming to family-friendly shows that her Papa is on, acting like a clown and trying to put smiles on faces is enough for her.

But I see the spark in her eyes. I see the interest.

She is a performer. She loves to be athletic.

Heaven help me, she could do it if she wanted to.

And she'd learn to be good at it.

I never wanted this for her. In fact I tried to keep it from her. When she was younger I never watched wrestling in the house. I loved that she was into what she liked and tried to encourage her own interests, without input from this big dork. I still do that. Listen to her music. Watch her shows with her. Volunteer at her dance recitals. All of it.

In truth when she was born I honestly believed that I'd be done wrestling by now. Figured it would never come up because all my stuff would be buried in the back of my closet never to be brought out again.

Yet here I am, celebrating 30 years of in ring activity, having more fun doing the job than I have in many years.

Which is probably why my daughter is so curious about it now.

This is the 3rd pro wrestling boom I have been a part of. Everything goes in waves as the industry ebbs and flows. Right now indy shows all over the world are thriving in tune with what the larger companies are fueling. As such, there's a lot of mainstream interest.

Eventually that will slow, and when it does, general interest will fade.

Maybe my daughter's interest will fade as well. Maybe it won't.

All I can do is protect her the best I know how and encourage her to make the best decisions she can for herself and her future.

Whatever that may be.

I love my little girl. I will protect and support her no matter what.

But I do not need or want her following in my footsteps. This has been my journey, warts and all - and I've had / am having a good time with it. 

Her Journey is Hers Alone.

I just hope she's smarter than her Papa, is all.

AK

BOOKS 
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BLUESKY

Available on Amazon

ProWrestlingTees.com

Top 3 Book Recommendations for September 2023

As I slog through my life and begin to get back to work on my own creative endeavors it seems fitting to take time to plug and give thanks to some of the other authors and creators who've helped to inspire and entertain me during this phase.

#1 Don Winslow's "The FORCE" is a harrowing tale of corruption, violence and intrigue within the politics and police of New York City. Unlike anything I'd ever read before and I absolutely could not put it down. Hit the link and Order your copy Today!

#2 "Why We Love Star Wars" by Ken Napzok. An absolute must for anyone who grew up on any version of the stories told in that Galaxy Far, Far Away. A series of essays and ideas inspired by all things Star Wars, an emotional deep dive on themes and scenes that stick out for us all, and an excellent insight into the mind of someone who found resonance in these iconic tales.

#3 "Everything Fat Loss: The Definitive No Bullsh*t Guide" By Ben Carpenter

Those who are into fitness and weight loss know full well just what a minefield the social media influencer landscape can be for all kinds of topics. Ben Carpenter is a no nonsense voice of reason within that space and has made it his mission to debunk the bullshit and give only the straight goods. This book is backed by hundreds of studies (that you can actually find links to and read for yourself) making it for my money the best and most complete book ever written on this topic. Please order yourself a copy today!

That's all for today. See you again in October for more recommendations. 

AK

Book Review: Tad Williams' "The Witchwood Crown"

(review also available on

Goodreads)

In today's modern media landscape where it seems like everything that's old is new again (and / or recycled to give a nostalgia hit to those who crave feeling young again) it was so refreshing to finally dive back into the realm of Osten Ard, reconnect with our heroes / characters / locations from Tad Williams' groundbreaking "Memory, Sorrow and Thorn" trilogy of Epic Fantasy and find just so much more to discover.

As someone who originally took out "The Dragonbone Chair" from his local library at 11 years old and continued reading through the whole trilogy until finally finishing it in my early 20s it was fascinating at that time to grown up with Seoman, Miriamele, Binabik, Tiamak and others. To sit under the wisdom of Duke Isgrimnur and to understand as the characters did just how tricky it is to actually live in a "grown up world" where right and wrong are both easy and hard to decipher. Where good people can become corrupted not just by evil wizards and ancient evils, but by their own hubris, aspirations and trauma.

Now here we are, 25 years later returning to this world. We see how the world has changed (and somehow NOT changed) after the events of Green Angel Tower. We learn that just because you've slayed a dragon or stayed off the coming of a great and powerful evil that there's always more evil in the hearts and minds of men. We get to spend so much more time in the grey areas of the mysterious Norns, learning about their hierarchy, their culture and how their world view has changed after losing the battle that was supposed to deliver them Osten Ard. It is very much a more grown up tale with experience, passion, fear, a real earned sense of history and yes ... lust that is a natural evolution of the books I read in my youth.

Tad Williams remains one of my all time favourite authors. This book has been sitting on my TBR Pile quite literally for 4 years as I was both intimidated by it and fearful that it couldn't possibly live up to my expectations. Those fears were assuaged easily as the authors work has matured along with my tastes and need for complicated characters and stories.

AK

The Phantom Menace: Seeing it For the First Time

This blog post is in honour of a recent “deep dive” episode of the ForceCenter Podcast where Joseph Scrimshaw and Ken Napzok spent almost 2 hours recalling their experiences back in 1999 surrounding the days leading up to the release of Star Wars: Episode 1, The Phantom Menace. Their feelings leading up to the moment it arrived, their theatre memories, the people they saw the movie with and of course their feelings about the movie and the fallout afterwards.

In many ways while this was also the “Rebirth of the Skywalker Saga” it was also the actual birth of “Toxic Fandom” culture. While in 1999 the internet was much more “dial up” than accessible at 5G’s the fact remains that chat rooms, message boards and early blog sites / webpages quickly became filled with hot takes, vitriol and fan fictions from those of a certain age who declared loudly “This isn’t my Star Wars, George screwed us all!”

Now while I’ve never been fully on board with that mindset there were obviously periods over the past 22 years where I’ve had some similar thoughts, criticisms and issues with the Prequels in general. Plus certain parts in specific.

Thankfully as I’ve advanced into the early Qui-Gon phase of my enlightenment I have a much more patient and nuanced opinion of the things I had taken issue with and am very comfortable in saying that “I love Star Wars: All of It.”

But let’s not stray too far off topic.

I remember waiting breathlessly for the Phantom Menace trailer to load over my buddy’s dial-up internet service provider back in 1999. There were a few of us early 20s fellas and one girlfriend crowding around that big tube monitor begging the QuickTime player to finish buffering so we could scan every second of that super high res / ergo incredibly tiny version of the trailer.

And it was glorious.

When they announced the on sale date for tickets plans were made to camp out in advance, not wanting to miss the opportunity to see Episode 1 as early as possible to avoid spoilers. Clearly I was not alone in this idea. While I am a die hard Star Wars fan I will never be quite so hard-core as the fella known only by the moniker of “Rogue Leader” who set up his tent, portable TV and cooler (with the permission of the theatre) a full 5 DAYS before the tickets were set to go on sale.

Regardless, there I was the night before with about 60 people deep in the lineup (which we all christened “Mos Shanty”) along with my Boba Fett obsessed buddy Dallas and a few others who popped in and out over the night to deliver pizza, drop off money for their tickets (we were allowed a maximum of 10 tickets per person after all, had to get that in advance to reserve their spot) and generally have what I’ve always presumed was a super toned down version of what a music festival would be like. People had their VHS’ out on portable TV’s watching their favourite Star Wars moments. Several others had their Star Wars Trivial Pursuit games going. More than a few were having mock lightsaber battles.

It’s funny, I remember being about 4 years into my pro wrestling life at this time and definitely NOT telling any of those guys about the plan to camp out and wait. I was already having a difficult time adjusting to that crew of dudes, which was as much on me and my residual high school nerdy traumas as it was on some of those guys being complete asshats. I also remember being a combination of excited and frankly kind of embarrassed when I showed up to stake our claim in line for those tickets.

An important lesson was learned that night that I hope never leaves me.

Its okay to love the things that you love, and you’re not alone in loving those things.

Obviously this applies to almost everything.

The morning when tickets went on sale naturally turned into a shit show. At least a few hundred Johnny-Come-Latelies showed up about an hour before the doors open and tried their best to jam up the entranceway thus circumventing the orderly if erratic line that was queued almost all the way around the shopping mall where the theatre was located. After a bit of legitimate pushing and shoving cooler heads ultimately prevailed. Also the Cinema Manager came out with a bullhorn, alerting everyone that he’d called the police and that they were going to be serving people in the order that they actually arrived.

Huzzah.

I think all told I had been at the theatre waiting approximately 20 hours. It was well over 24 by the time I’d secured the precious paper slips for the 11:45PM showing at Silver City St Vital in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

I still have those stubs somewhere in my office. If I find them I’ll update this and post them.

But this was still like 6 weeks out from opening day. I now had the hopes and dreams of 10 friends / coworkers / an ex-girlfriend and the girl I was crushing on in an envelope in my bedroom. I’m sure I checked to make sure I had that list of names and those tickets at least once a day until the day in question.

On opening day one of my best friends (and the guy who convinced me to give pro wrestling a try) Chad and I had an early morning audition at the Da Capo Studios in downtown Winnipeg. Both of us were underemployed wannabe actors / wrestlers and thought we had nothing to lose going in and reading for an animated project that was taking advantage of Canadian Tax incentives by offloading some of the voice talent to unknown Canucks who couldn’t even get their ACTRA Cards (FWIW – we didn’t get the parts and 20 years, several short films and at least a dozen extra gigs and still no ACTRA Card …. Sighs).

I remember hopping into the Blue Whale (Chad’s dilapidated, sky blue 1970s station wagon) and the two of us chattering like idiots the whole way into the audition, the whole time we were waiting and immediately once again after it was over.

All the way back to the car we couldn’t stop recklessly speculating about what was going to happen. And then mid sentence I realized something.

The (now repurposed) classic theatre known as “The Garrick Cinema” had its main doors open.

It was 10am.

Curious we walked in.

There were 3 people on duty. The manager, a concessions clerk and the usher.

“Yes, we’re open. First showing of The Phantom Menace is at 10:30.”

Astonished at our impossible good fortune we immediately did 2 things.

I immediately purchased 2 tickets.

And then we sprinted back to the Blue Whale and put enough change into the metre to make damned sure we wouldn’t get towed.

The Garrick was a special cinema in the old style, complete with a balcony. Which of course we took advantage of, sitting in the absolute centre seats with our soda, popcorn and complete disbelief at what was about to happen.

10:30am on the dot the lights dimmed and we received a private screening of the Phantom Menace on opening day.

And we loved it.

The rest of our day was a constant discussion over things we had issues with, story ideas we’d gotten wrong and more. But there was no question that we loved it.

And of course as we met up with the rest of the crew at 11PM leading into the midnight showing that of course I’d been so precious about, we had to repeat the story of our good fortune endlessly to anyone who would listen.

Don’t worry. No spoilers.

Of the 2 opening day showings I saw I can’t really determine which one I enjoyed more. While the private one at the Garrick was special, most of the experience washed over me. Taking me back to being 7 years old and wanting to hide from Darth Vader beneath my father’s winter coat.

The late showing was special for the sheer presence of all those excited people, crammed into the Silver City Cinema shoulder to shoulder. Some in cosplay and more than a few early branded lightsabres were up in the air. However the rush of excitement and the wall of sound from the collected throats of everyone cheering as the “Lucasfilm” logo hit the screen and sustained all the way into the opening crawl is something I will take with me forever.

In the weeks that followed of course the discourse began. Most of which I won’t repeat here because why retread old ground? But you know the stuff I mean in regards to casting choices, dialogue, midichlorians and our favourite Bombad general.

It was during this time that I should’ve learned the second lesson, one that didn’t actually sink until 2015 after I had the pleasure of seeing Episode 7.

Not everyone is going to love what you love in the same way that you do, and that’s okay too.

All told, I saw The Phantom Menace at least 5 times in the theatres and have both my pan-n-scan VHS copy as well as the DVD, though if I’m being honest I watch it more often with my daughter now on Disney+.

And yes, she loves Jar Jar.  

Of course, so do I.

Thanks to everyone who’s popped by Reading & Wrestling over the past few months while I had nothing new to say. I’ve been working pretty hard on finishing my first “Overdrive” short story and hope to have it edited and properly shaped for public consumption by the end of next week. Once done I plan to release it on this site for free for all to read. So, “you’re welcome” if you’re one of my regular readers and “I’m sorry” if you’re only here for my upcoming Indy Wrestling posts and adventures.

Speaking of that, I’ve accepted my first pro wrestling booking in one calendar year. November 19^th in I will being working for legendary promoter Tony Condello at X-Cues’ Dining and Billiards here in Winnipeg. I’m told it will be an action packed card with 5 matches. Everyone one the crew and in the crowd must show proof of vaccination to attend. Please contact Mr Condello for ticket information at the phone number on the poster.

AK

Check out the consequences my main character Joe goes through in my Urban Fantasy OVERDRIVE Series at the following retailers. Available in eBook, Paperback and Hardcover.

AMAZON  KOBO  B&N  SMASHWORDS  SCRIBD  APPLE

Also, please consider supporting your favourite Wrestler today by visiting Pro Wrestling Tees and browse to your hearts content. Just, while you’re there, consider looking at my site first willya?

Bucket List Opponents #ShootingMyShot

So now that we sit here in Mid August of 2021 I am (for the first time in a year and a half) beginning to examine the potential for wrestling shows once again. Actual ones in front of real live people. While travel in Canada is a bit less difficult now than it was before and our vaccination numbers are rising every day I am personally feeling much more comfortable about heading out into the world without as much fear of bringing the virus back to my loved ones.

As such, the question must be asked: at my age and level of wear and tear, how much tread is left on these old tires? Can my body handle the rigors of in ring activity? Will the travel (should I choose to make trips of course) be manageable on my joints?

We all have a “Bump Card” and I’ve tried to be more selective in the last few years of my run about where I spend those precious impacts. Because while I could easily modify my in ring approach to be a bit less physical, rely more on posturing and promos and request a smaller opponent base to work with and likely extend my in ring career for a number of years… that just wouldn’t feel honest to me. I’ve never wanted to be one of “Those Lazy Old Fucks” who just coasts on tricks and gimmicks to get by. If I truly can’t deliver a match up to a level that I’m happy with, then I refuse to subject my efforts to a paying audience. They deserve the best for their dollar.

So with that said, this got me thinking about whom I WOULD like to face if I had my druthers. As such I’ve put together a little list. Not a fantasy booking kinda list, just a realistic compilation of fellas whom I believe I have a realistic chance to step into a ring with were things to line up.

These gents are in no particular order:

Shaun Moore is a mainstay on the Canadian Indy scene at the moment. Well travelled across several provinces and based out of Saskatchewan. It’s been my privilege to have shared a locker room with him on a few occasions though our paths haven’t yet crossed within a ring as of yet. I want to rectify that and test my mettle against his skill and technique. Plus I think our discrepancy in size would lead to some fun dynamics and storytelling opportunities.

Alex Hammerstone is a freak of nature. I first met #YBH during an overstuffed battle royal taking place at the Cauliflower Alley Club Convention back in 2016 or 2017 (?) and had a laugh. Since then he’s gone on to be a major player for Major League Wrestling in the USA as well as enjoying success with Pro Wrestling NOAH in Japan. A powerhouse wrestler with an amazing dropkick and excellent in ring presence. Definitely someone I’d love to lock horns with.

My buddy Arik Cannon has done a masterful job with FIRST Wrestling based out of Minneapolis for many years now and has been a staple of the MidWest Indies for almost 2 decades. We originally crossed paths for a spot show in Fergus Falls, MN in front of legitimately 11 people. One of those “The locker room was more packed than the house” scenarios. Since then we’ve had laughs and moments along the way in the Dakotas but have never had the chance to tie up. Maybe I’m nuts, but I think that “The Outlaw vs The Anarchist” makes for a hell of a log line.

This one might take some travelling, however since the United Kingdom is on my separate “Places to Wrestle Before I Retire” list this seems like an easier two-for.  All the preamble to say just how desperately I want to hit the mat with British Heavyweight Legend Doug Williams. After flirting with retirement himself a few years ago he is back with a vengeance and appears to be in incredible condition. A phenomenal catch style grappler with amazing strikes… man, the things I could learn just by locking up. Mr. Williams, it would be an honour.

A few years ago while he was on his international excursion from the DDT promotion in Japan I ended up nose to nose in a battle royal with “The Japanese Beast” Shigehiro Irie. I’m not even sure we ended up getting to trade any blows before the parade of jabrones swarmed us. Regardless, this Winnie the Pooh loving athlete is so well respected and incredibly talented. I have no doubt that he and I would be able to tear into each other and bring crowds to their feets.

I lied about no particular order as I’ve certainly saved these athletes for last.

The current reigning and defending NWA World Champion Nick Aldis has been carrying the banner of the revitalized National Wrestling Alliance for a number of years now with dignity and aplomb. The success of their quarterly Pay Per View events on the FITE app as well as their flagship show NWA POWERRR have been an excellent alternative to other pro wrestling you can find on TV today. A throwback to the glory days of in studio wrestling, Mr. Aldis has been a shining example as champion and in unquestionably someone whom I would love to face. So let’s get Billy on the horn, share another beer and make this deal happen.

The last name on my list today is the only Pipe Dream that I am throwing out there. It’s also a cheat since a few years back I actually had the chance to team up with this man for a Trios Bout right here in Winnipeg. But if by some chance I was able to get in the ring to face Scott “Flash” Norton one on one… man, this is a battle I would LOVE to have. A legend in Japan. An arm wrestling Champion. Yes, a part of the NWO. Championships all over the world. A powerlifting badass like few others. And a gentleman through and through. Mr. Norton, if you’re still taking bookings my schedule can be very easily cleared.

Please follow the links I’ve provided to check out the work and merchandise pages for all of the gentlemen I’ve mentioned above. While there are of course many other wrestlers I’d be honoured to face these are the ones front of mind for me today. If you’ve got anyone you’d like to see me face, feel free to tag em on Twitter, hit up your favourite indy promotions and put a bug in their ears, or just RT and SHARE The heck outta this post.

Thanks for Reading. I’m looking forward to getting back to more Wrestling soon.

AK

Check out the consequences my main character Joe goes through in my Urban Fantasy OVERDRIVE Series at the following retailers. Available in eBook, Paperback and Hardcover.

AMAZON  KOBO  B&N  SMASHWORDS  SCRIBD  APPLE

Also, please consider supporting your favourite Wrestler today by visiting Pro Wrestling Tees and browse to your hearts content. Just, while you’re there, consider looking at my site first willya?