THE wrestling resurgence in the region continues to rise thanks to Union Wrestling, a unique Wrestling sports promotion that;s bringing new life to the sport in the Vale.

The crowd at Theatre John Ambrose, Ruthin, on Saturday, October 28, were on the edge of their seats as they saw "Slim" Jim Brennan from Oldham, continue on in his quest in the ‘Beat the Champion’ tournament, a contest in which anyone who wins six bouts consecutively has a chance at winning £2,000.

Only the best wrestlers from all over the UK have been invited to compete in the squared circle of Ruthin, at spectacular back-to-back events in September and October.

Local man Thomas Williams from Mold was declared a winner in his opening contest against Lee Daniels of Stockport, beating his opponent in rounds 3 and 6, winning 2-1.

Meanwhile, The Monstrous Heavyweight Joshua Kemper from Leeds [114Kg, 6ft 7in], beat his opponent easily and in style, winning 2-0 in straight falls in rounds 2 and 3.

Former 7-time Mid-Heavyweight World Champion Marty Jones was at hand to judge the evenings contests.

Jones would be called into action in the main event of the evening as the audience saw Brennan and Connor Maxon (Penrith) battle it out for 6 rounds with no winner decided by pinfall, submission or knockout. The scores at the end of the contest were 1-1 and as this match required a winner for the ‘Beat the Champion’ tournament, the decision went to the judge. Jones scored the even contest 58-58, but awarded the victory to Brennan after deducting 4 points from Maxon due to two yellow cards being shown during the bout for repeated infringements. Final judges’ score was 58-54.

Union Wrestling returns to Theatre John Ambrose on Saturday, November 25, as "Slim" Jim continues his quest in the 3rd Leg of the ‘Beat the Champion’ tournament and the pursuit of the £2,000 prize purse.

Organisers are grateful for the continued support from local businesses SP Kell Accountants, Pine & Oak Direct, and The Park Place.