Interview #16 - LegenDarius

The next interview is involving someone who made his introduction at the July Filipino Pro Wrestling FPW Astig show.  His name is  LegenDarius.

 

Fans who were at the event feel that he is a manager to a new wrestler on the roster by the name of Jason Rex.  However, instead of going further on this, this blogger will let LegenDarius  share what happened at the July show.  Since this blogger wasn't in attendance, I found out bits and pieces of what transpired that day.  Thank you to LegenDarius in agreeing to this interview.  Here we go.

 

Wayne:  What led you to becoming a manager? 

 

LegenDarius:  I'll be showing the real me in this interview, so apologies in advance. I just recently learned what a "wrestling gimmick" is, and now I understand that I've been playing this gimmick persona of being a super nice wrestling fan. It feels amazing to finally be able to be myself.

 

To be clear, I don't mind being called a manager, but I'm more of a mentor—a strategist. Nothing led me to the position I am in today. I've planned everything from the start. In terms of how we started planning this, it was actually my apprentice, Jason Rex, who put pro wrestling on my radar. I had to get involved in the industry to ensure the success of one of my students, and it then evolved into a bigger mission.

 

"Amateurs seek the sun. Get eaten. Power stays in the shadows." — Lewis Strauss.

 

I had nothing to do with Philippine wrestling until about two years ago. Then, suddenly, my research team successfully made people believe I was this super fan attending FPW and MWF shows. I even gaslighted some fans into thinking I was with them at events years before, even though my first time ever watching a wrestling show was at FPW's first shows. I'm sorry, guys, but I've never actually been to "PWR Homecoming". And to be clear, I didn't lie; my team tricked you. 

 

You interviewed me before, and it was one of your most-viewed interviews, and that has been by design. It's all part of the data collection process and a means to subtly and covertly win over the trust of the fans and the people involved in the industry. 

 

The next step was to get my foot in the door, so I started attending training sessions at the FPW Academy. During that time, I grew closer to rare individuals who not only shared my philosophy but were "pure" in understanding and living my concepts. Let's just say I had to learn how to become "sigma," and some people are just born with it—I'm not going to tell you exactly who they are. 

 

Then, my team said I had to make sure people felt good about me. A consultation firm created my training vignettes so more people would perceive me better. It was a risky step, as it could put off some people seeing a trainee already releasing training montages. But my analysts said this was part of how I could infiltrate more effectively, as it would make the "mark fans" in the wrestling industry relate to me more. Finally, I was able to become what they call a "Young Boy"—a sort of usher and security for FPW shows. 

 

The last show was a canon event. Jason Rex was facing someone who disrespected him in the past. It was a calculated risk, but it was the right moment to step out of the shadows and make things right. Here is a bit of footage from that show: https://www.instagram.com/p/C-4r19cvQhp/ 

 

I don't mind getting my hands dirty, so if I have to get in the ring for the sake of my mission, I will. 

 

Now we're at a point where the world can see who I really am, and we can actually influence the direction of the local wrestling industry—and eventually, hopefully, the entire world. 

 

Wayne:  Tell us more about Jason Rex. 

 

LegenDarius:  Jason Rex used to be known as Brad Cruz, the "Manila Bae" of an old defunct promotion. He was deluded by society into having dreams of becoming a star, which meant he had to be materialistic, vain, and had to pander to society's wants. 

 

But he was able to see the light—that the ladders he wanted to climb were part of a world built on fantasy, mind-controlled advertising, synthetic food made to make us feel weak and wanting to consume more, psychological warfare on social media, and propaganda news designed to distract and divide us. (Why the heck should people care about Carlos Yulo's family drama?) The world hypnotized Brad Cruz, but my secret sigma seminars woke him up from his slumber. I rechristened him and made him into Jason Rex, The Manila Beast! 

 

Wayne:  What are your thoughts on the new venue, Baked Studios? 

 

LegenDarius:  Baked Studios is the stage that will set the world of Philippine wrestling on fire. A great mix of lights, lasers, screens, and overall production creates an otherworldly, surreal atmosphere. That’s exactly the kind of environment where moments are made. It's a venue that matches the caliber of talent FPW wrestlers bring to the table. The roster thrives in places like this—especially my apprentice. 

 

Wayne:  What are your thoughts on Filipino Pro Wrestling now and its future? 

 

LegenDarius:  Filipino Pro Wrestling will keep on growing. Every show, a huge fraction of the audience is people watching wrestling for the first time. The talent here is hungry, the energy is electric, and FPW will continue to evolve and get bigger with time. 

 

But the sun will set on the current era of FPW. Jason Rex and I will use the platform of Filipino Pro Wrestling to help steer the ship of culture itself. 

 

Just so people understand, I am not Andrew Tate or Josh Mojica. I am not here to sell courses to make people rich, and I don't condone misogyny. I am here to build people up, to wake them up to the truth that we live in a dystopia that intentionally wants to harm us, make us weak, so we can be slaves and just consume. I want people to unleash the beast within them. 

 

Against my own wants, I make "relatable" short-form content so I can try to reach people outside the wrestling niche. But it's mostly so people can connect with us—the first step in waking people up. If I can transform Brad Cruz into Jason Rex, I hope to do the same for everyone else. But if they want to reach their beast self, they should follow me on socials, FPW, and Jason Rex. 

 

LegenDarius on Socials: FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/imdariusaur 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dariusaur/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dariusaur TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dariusaur 

FPW on Socials: FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/filprowrestling 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/filprowrestling/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@filprowrestling 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@filprowrestling 

Jason Rex on Socials: FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064183021332 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason_rex_fpw/ 

 

I want to change the world, and FPW will be the catalyst for that change. A new dawn is breaking.

 

LegenDarius, thank you so much for the interview.  As this is being posted, Legendarius and Jason Rex are preparing for the next FPW show, FPW Astig.  The show is on Sunday, September 15th at 2pm at Baked Studios in Makati City.

 

Jason Rex will be taking on Dax Xaviera in one of several matches that afternoon.  This match is important for both wrestlers as a victory could move one of them closer to an FPW Championship Title match down the line.

 

For tickets, please visit the FPW - Filipino Pro Wrestling Facebook page.  All the best to LegenDarius and to Jason Rex in the next show, and going forward!

Interview #15 - Miguel Navarro

Hello everyone!

 

It's been about 11 months since doing an interview on this blog.  A lot has happened in the pro wrestling world since that time.  There have been several people that suggested that one of these should be done again.  So, here we go.

 

During this blogger's last visit to the Philippines a few weeks ago, had a chance to meet Miguel Navarro.  Right away, I saw the passion and the knowledge that Miguel has as a wrestling fan both locally and internationally.  Miguel is the WUW - PH (World Underground Wrestling - Philippines Correspondent).  Just recently, he began his own podcast called Ready To Rambol.  Please check it out if you haven't already.

 

Just recently, we did this interview with several questions.  Hope you enjoy it.

 

Wayne:  When did you start following wrestling?

 

Miguel:  I started following wrestling in 2006. Although I discovered it through a video game which is Smackdown 2 Know Your Role.  I played that game most of the time I was in my grandmother's house and I used to think that wrestling is a setting that can be seen in fictional media, like superheroes with superpowers can be seen in comics, series, or movies.  It wasn't until I was finding something to watch that I saw ECW One Night Stand 06 and realizing that wrestling is real blew my mind.

 

 

Wayne:  Have you ever wrestled or just follow it as a fan?

 

 

Miguel:  Back then I thought of being a wrestler, however due to a bad injury made me not pursue it for my safety. So I decided to just be a fan, then I got into podcasting, which lead to me contributing to the local scene, and here we are.

 

 

Wayne:  Who is your favorite wrestler locally and/or internationally?

 

 

Miguel:  Locally my favorite wrestler is SJM (Saint John Martin), some will joke that I'm being bias as a WUW correspondent, but I always see SJM as a unique wrestler and attraction in wrestling shows where you rarely see him appear, but when he does, you know that you will witness one of the most intense bouts of the show.

 

 

As for international wrestler, it has to be Cody Rhodes, he's the wrestler I fully got attached to and relate with mostly because I followed him when he was still a rookie in WWE, to running the indies and AEW, to his comeback in WWE and seeing him transform to the wrestler he is now.

 

 

Wayne:  What are your thoughts on Pinoy Wrestling today and its future?

 

 

Miguel:  This is the best time to support Pinoy Wrestling. You can see that the wrestlers here are giving their all. At this point we can say we have wrestlers who can go toe to toe with guys like Tajiri, CDK (Calamari Drunken Kings), Zack Sabre Jr. and more, likes of JDL (Jake De Leon) wrestling in Kouraken Hall, Fabio and Jomar being invited by Tajiri to train, and seeing the next generation of local wrestlers being exciting to watch. I can say that Pinoy wrestling now and future shines bright.

 

 

There you have it.  Thank you Miguel for your thoughts on the pro wrestling scene.  All the best to you as the WUW PH Correspondent as well as the podcast you recently launched.  This fan will continue to tune in to future podcasts.


Very soon, another interview could be headed this way.  Please be on the lookout who it might be.....

PUSO Wrestling Heart-2-Heart Update #4

Hello everyone!

 

One match has been added for PUSO Wrestling's (Philippines) Heart-2-Heart show.  The event will take place on Saturday, September 21st.  Location is the Brawl Pit Bulusan beginning at 6pm.

 

Jomar and ?????? (partner of Jomar's choosing) will take on Isaiah Valencia and Patricia Ligaia in tag team action.  

 

For those who haven't followed how this match was made, Patricia Ligaia was the winner of the Jun Capilos Battle Royal.  She won by eliminating Jomar over the top rope to win it.

 

It appeared that initially, Jomar wanted Patricia in singles competition.  However, Isaiah Valencia stepped in perhaps to face Jomar instead.  Eventually, per General Manager - Sonny Go, this will now be a tag match.  Jomar will choose a partner of his choosing against Isaiah and Patricia.

 

Also, Jake De Leon, fresh off a very successful wrestling tour of Japan, will be in action that night.

 

For more information, including tickets, please visit the PUSO Wrestling Facebook page.  Also, for sponsorship inquiries, please message PUSO Wrestling or email pusowrestling@gmail.com for more details.  Thank you.

Cross Promoting

Growing up with pro wrestling in the Territory Era in North America, there was something interesting that this blogger learned early on. 


About two years after first watching wrestling on television, this blogger first came across a wrestling magazine known as The Wrestler.  Remember everyone, back then, there was no internet! 

 

It was a shock to find out that there were actually three promotions in North America and not one!  I grew up in the National Wrestling Alliance territory and thinking it was the only one.

 

However, there were two other promotions in the American Wrestling Association (Midwest Region) and the World Wide Wrestling Federation (East Coast Region).  It would be extremely rare if a wrestler from one region back in 1968 would wrestle in another one.  The only exception I could remember early on was the WWWF's Bruno Sammartino doing a couple of shows against the NWA's Ray Stevens at the Daly City Cow Palace.

 

Things were very tight amongst the heads of the different groups back then.  Definitely, it was big business and up until the 1970s, one promotion would not "invade" another's territory.  The invasion began in 1969 when the American Wrestling Alliance invaded NWA territory with a show in the Los Angeles area (The Forum in Inglewood).  NWA was the territory back then with shows at the Olympic Auditorium in downtown Los Angeles.

 

Jumping forward a half century, in Southeast Asia, there are a few pro wrestling promotions throughout the various countries.  Unlike the days of The Territory Era in North America, pro wrestling in Southeast Asia is definitely a breath of fresh air!  The heads of the various promotions are far more receptive in a wrestler from one country visiting another.

 

This blogger has been following a recent pro wrestling tour of Japan involving Jake De Leon (PUSO Wrestling - Philippines), Shivam (SETUP - Thailand) along with Dr. Gore (SPW), Monomoth (SETUP), Chris Brookes and Masa Takanashi (SETUP, DDT Pro Wrestling, ChocoPro).  A couple of fans from abroad were able to attend the tour as well.

 

There were the Baka Gaijin and ChocoPro shows that were definitely memorable.  Then there was the legendary show at Korakuen Hall where many Japanese pro wrestling shows have taken place.  I believe the tour ends in Saitama before the wrestlers return to the respective countries.

 

Over the last few weeks, this blogger has been trying to keep up with several wrestlers.  While I was in the Philippines, Filipino Pro Wrestling's, Chino Guinto took part in a Vietnam Pro Wrestling show at the VAIB Studio.  Before this, Jake De Leon (PUSO Wrestling) and Mike Madrigal (Filipino Pro Wrestling) traveled to Malaysia for an APAC Wrestling show.  The Eurasian Dragon and a couple of other wrestlers from Ring Of Rebirth Singapore wrestled in the show as well.

Earlier in the year, Dexcon Philippines promoted a couple of shows with Zack Sabre Jr. (NJPW), Chris Brookes and Masa Takanashi (SETUP, DDT, ChocoPro) appearing. 

 

In about two weeks, September 14th, the Philippines own, Crystal, will be appearing at Middle Kingdom Wrestling's Championship Supercard show in Shanghai.  She will be taking on Yuki Kamifuku for the SPW Queen Of Asia Championship.

 

The point this blogger is making is that the cross promotion of wrestling talent in Southeast Asia is a very healthy one for pro wrestling in the region. It spurs interest, grows the industry and helps the economy.  Friendships are strengthened as well.

 

There is no question in this wrestling fan's mind that the Japan visit was a success!  From what was posted in Social Media, all of the wrestlers had a great time and were receptive positively by the fans who attended.  Definitely, there are exciting times ahead for sports entertainment in the region.  

PUSO Wrestling Heart-2Heart Update #3

Hello everyone!

 

PUSO Wrestling's next show, Heart-2-Heart, will take place on Saturday, September 21st.  The venue is the Brawl Pit Bulusan beginning at 6pm in Quezon City.

 

One match has been added to the show, and it is not just a match either.

 

Danny Zamora will be taking on Dabid Ravena in what will be in wrestling terms, "a banger!"  The rivalry between the two wrestlers has been an ongoing one.  For those of you who were at the inaugural show, Unang Tibok, here is what happened.

 

Before the Jun Capilos Jr. Battle Royal, the two appeared to be jawing at one another before the match began.  Then, at times during the match, the two were battling each other.  Eventually, both Danny and Dabid were eliminated within seconds of each other, and a couple of meters from one another.

 

However, it didn't stop there.  The two combatants continued battling each other outside the ring.  They kept brawling when leaving the Brawl Pit Bulusan.  Who knows if the two are still battling as this post is being written!

 

Anyway, for information, including tickets, please visit the PUSO Wrestling Facebook page.  Until this coming Saturday, tickets are 5% off in all categories.

 

Also, if anyone is interested in sponsoring the show, please message PUSO Wrestling or email them at pusowrestling@gmail.com for more information.  Thank you.

FPW Unfinished Business #3

 

Hello everyone!

Filipino Pro Wrestling's next show, Unfinished Business, will take place on Sunday, September 15th.  The venue is Baked Studios in Makati City beginning at 2pm.

 

There is one match that's been added to the show, and this has the makings of a very good one!

 

Jason Rex with Legendarius will make their debut together when they take on Dax Xaviera in one of several matches in the show.  From what this blogger understands, there is great chemistry between Rex and Legendarius.  Also, this match could be a stepping stone for the winner.  A possible FPW Championship title shot could await the victor somewhere down the line.

 

For more information including tickets, please visit the FPW - Filipino Pro Wrestling Facebook page.  Thank you.     

PUSO Wrestling Heart 2 Heart Update #2

Hello everyone!

 

PUSO Wrestling's next show, Heart-2-Heart, will take place Saturday night, September 21st.  The venue is the Brawl Pit Bulusan in Quezon City, PH. beginning at 6pm.

 

The stage is now set for PUSO Wrestling's Pusong Pinoy Wrestling Tournament with two semi final matches.  This is for the first ever Pusong Pinoy Wrestling Champion!  The matches are as follows:

 

Aaron Liwanag vs. Super P.

Nigel San Jose vs. Main Maxx.

The four wrestlers reached this point by winning their first round matches at the August Unang Tibok show.

For more information, including tickets, please visit the PUSO Wrestling Facebook page.  Also, from now until Saturday, August 31st, tickets in SVIP, VIP and General Admission categories are 5% off the regular price.

Also, if anyone is interested in sponsoring the upcoming show, please email PUSO Wrestling at pusowrestling@gmail.com or send a FB / IG message.  Thank you.

MKW Championship Supercard Update #2

Hello everyone!

 

Here's an update on Middle Kingdom Wrestling's MKW Championship Supercard.  The show will take place on Saturday, September 14th.  The venue is the Bandai Namco Shanghai Base beginning at 7pm.

 

My apologies on getting this out late.  I've had issues with a social media provider getting posts out (not on this platform).  Also, was away on vacation for several weeks.

 

However, here is the lineup of events as of this post...

 

The Slam (c) vs. Chen Wenbin for the MKW World Championship.

Yuki Kamifuku (c) vs. Crystal for the SPW Queen Of Asia Championship.

Wangtao (c) vs. Benji vs. Gaoyuan vs. Shaheen for the Belt And Road Championship in a four way.

Big Sam, Uncle Money and Connor vs. Franco Varga, Sunny Z and Honwan in a Six Man Tag Match.

Bad Boys (c) vs. Zombie Dragon and Ho Ho Lun for the MKW Tag Team Championship.

Coldray vs. A Mystery Opponent To Be Named.

 

For more information including tickets, please visit the Middle Kingdom Wrestling Facebook page.  Thank you.          

Grapplemax's Next Show

Hello everyone!

 

Grapplemax Pro Wrestling Singapore will host their next show on Saturday, September 28th.  The event is called Open House and will take place at the Grapplemax Studios beginning at 5pm.

 

For more in the show, including tickets, please visit the Grapplemax Pro Wrestling Singapore Facebook page.  Thank you.

Dexcon Watch Party

Hello everyone!

 

The following information has been pasted to this page.  It is regarding the Dexcon Decada Watch Party.  Please enjoy this!  You've been wanting to see this.  Thank you.

 

 

DEKADA WATCH PARTY + SWAP MEET

 

https://dexcon.helixpay.ph/products/watch-party-entry

 

450 PHP (comes with unlimited coffee)

 

September 8, 2024 2PM-5PM at Kyodo Spaces Coworking + Lounge

(Limited to 30 people only)

 

(address per Google maps is  Unit C6 Aurora Blvd. Cor. Dona Hemady St, Cor N. Domingo, Quezon City, 1111 Metro Manila, Philippines).

 

The show you have all been waiting for!!!

Witness what was considered by many as The Best Match in the Philippines as Zack Sabre Jr. faces Jake De Leon in an International Dream Match!

 

Also see your other favorites as Fabio Makisig , Jomar D. Wrestler , TZK, Robin Sane , R O M É O , Main Maxx , Dabid Ravena and many more enter the squared circle!

 

Watch the Pinoy Wrestling Cut of Dexcon Dekada and relive the action and emotions evoked during that night. Also you may buy, sell and trade your favorite wrestling items with other collectors!

Note: Please come on time as the venue is booked for the specified hours only.

Heart2Heart Update

Hello everyone!

 

The Philippines' PUSO Wrestling has announced that their next show, Heart2Heart, will take place on Saturday, September 21st.  The venue is the Brawl Pit Bulusan in Quezon City beginning at 6pm.

 

One match has been announced for the show as of the last few hours.  

 

Joya will face Chelsea Marie in one of several matches of the show.  This has the makings of a great match!

 

Both wrestlers came off good performances from the inaugural show, Unang Tibok, held last month.  Joya faced a rugged opponent in Aaron Liwanag and, more than, held her own.  Chelsea Marie did likewise in the Main Event against Mr. Philippine Wrestling, Jake De Leon.

 

There is something special added to this match.  The winner of this match will headline next month's Dexcon event in an International Dream Match.  The event is called Jam Of The Joshis that will take place on Sunday, October 13th.  This blogger will share more on that in the days ahead in a separate post.

 

For more information, including tickets, please visit the PUSO Wrestling Facebook page.  From now through Saturday, August 31st, fans can save 5% when buying tickets!  Thank you.        

A New Wrestling Podcast!

 

This blogger loves podcasts!

 

My second shout out of today (only in terms of posts) is someone I met officially before last week's PUSO show in the Philippines.

 

Miguel Navarro is the World Underground Wrestling - Philippines Coorespondent and is very active at Pinoy wrestling shows throughout Metro Manila.  It was definitely an honor to meet him and share our passion of local wrestling.

 

Just recently, Miguel began a podcast titled Ready To Rambol.  It covers the wrestling scene locally.

 

His first episode was really good.  It wasn't too long nor too short.  Roughly 17 minutes is definitely a good start.  I mentioned this to Miguel in a brief conversation after listening in.

 

The podcast can be caught on Spotify.  I'm not positive on this but you don't have to be a member of Spotify to check it out.  For those wanting to listen in, here's the link that is posted below.  All the best to Miguel going forward.  Maybe one day, this blogger may do one himself!

 

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3l3RUaUsV1Vz1osw0Whz3i..
 

Matchmaker - Linus

During this blogger's recent visit to the Philippines, had the opportunity to meet two people whom are important in the wrestling scene.  I'm actually going to do the two separately.

 

Linus Joshua (hopefully the blogger has this correct.  If incorrect Linus, please message me and will correct) is a match maker for Dexcon.  For those not knowing what Dexcon is, the group began in 2023 promoting matches involving local pinoy and out of country wrestling talent as well as Meet And Greets.  

 

Their first show was, I believe, in August 2023.  In 2024, they will be hosting their third show, the weekend of October 12-13.


This blogger was at the show last year and was impressed with what happened.  The Meet And Greet and the wrestling show took place at the Brawl Pit Bulusan on a Monday which was a National holiday for the country.  Next to Brawl Pit is a nice cafe called Onyang's which I recommend to anyone who visits.

 

Honestly, I didn't remember if I met Linus at the August show last year but wanted to meet him last weekend.  This blogger was definitely humbled with the opportunity.

 

Linus and Dexcon have put on several exceptional shows.  The August 2023 show had local pinoy wrestlers from WUW - Philippines and current PUSO talent.  Alexis Lee, Poppy, Kojio Akumu and Steve The Teacher (now Afam Steve) were from promotions outside the Philippines and added a flavor that made it an entertaining evening.

 

Dexcon's shows this year have had the likes of the Calamari Drunken Kings (Chris Brookes and Masahiro Takanashi) and Zach Sabre Jr. at their two shows.  They were both well attended and were well quality events.  Dexcon deserves a lot of kudos for their effort.  Wrestle Storm and Dexcon Decada were superb!

Linus is not alone in the effort.  He has a support crew whom I chat with almost everyday that helps this blogger promote the shows better. 

 

Their next show is actually two shows as well as a Meet And Greet to my understanding.  The event will take place the weekend of October 12-13.  This blogger will have more on the event in the coming days.

PUSO Wrestling's Next Show

 

PUSO Wrestling in the Philippines has announced their next show!

 

The event, Heart2Heart, will take place on Saturday, September 21 at 6pm.  The venue is the Brawl Pit Bulusan in Quezon City.  The following part is courtesy of PUSO Wrestling so will post it here...

 

PUSO Wrestling's 2nd show gives you twice the action, twice the drama, and twice the fun!

 

 

In the main event, two formidable Pinay Wrestlers go head-to-head (or shall we say, heart-to-heart?) in a battle to see who gets to headline Dexcon's Jam of the Joshis in October. 

 

 

We also have two semi-final matches of the Pusong Pinoy Wrestling Championship Tournament—who are the last two competitors standing to make it all the way to the final round? PLUS! More exciting matches featuring your favorite Puso stars!

 

 

For more information on the show, including tickets,  please visit the PUSO Wrestling Facebook page.  Ticket prices for the show will be 5% off when you buy through August 31st which is one week away from today!

Last weekend's debut show was a sellout so please don't be left out!  Thank you.