Legacy Pro Wrestling launches in Auckland tonight with First Light at the Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre. For promoter Matt Rhodes, it’s a chance to illuminate areas of the pro-wrestling scene that haven’t had as much of the spotlight.
“We want to give guys the opportunity to try things, whether that’s a new character, or a spot they wouldn’t normally have on the card like the main event,” Rhodes says.
“It’s more about giving people an opportunity they may not get in other places. And it’s not because other places are doing it wrong. They have their vision, we have our vision.”
First Light will be headlined by a six-way bout to crown Legacy’s first Aotearoa New Zealand Wrestling Champion.
Cool Guy Sky, Horus, Jamie Tagataese, Spartan, Vic Craig, and whoever holds the 24/7 NZ Wrestling Collectibles Championship at the end of the night will battle for the new belt, designed by Rhodes.
Adorned with koru and silver ferns, Rhodes says the Legacy Championship also features six flags representing different regions of New Zealand – Auckland, Waikato, Wellington, Nelson, Tasman, and Southland. Perhaps a statement of intent for future Legacy events?
“Nothing’s off the cards.”
As for First Light, ticketholders can expect something of a throwback, Rhodes says.
“When you come to a Legacy show, the vibe will be quite nostalgia-driven. Don’t get me wrong, production will be 2024, but you might see some things that take you back to the 80s or 90s.
“Part of the mission statement is to educate fans on the past and present legacy of New Zealand wrestling … we’ve got to showcase things that happened before any of us were doing this.”
In addition to five matches (and the 24/7 nature of the Wrestling Collectibles Championship), First Light will also host a performance by hip-hop artist Paki Dunn.
“Intermission gives you a bit of a rest from the wrestling but why does there have to be nothing?” Rhodes asks. “Why not do a 20-minute intermission with a concert for 10-15 minutes of that?”
Legacy First Light takes place tonight, February 17, at the Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre in Auckland. Tickets from Eventfinda.
Legacy First Light Card:
- Legacy Championship:
Cool Guy Sky vs. Horus vs. Jamie Tagataese vs. Spartan vs. Vic Craig vs. ??? - NZ Wrestling Collectibles Championship:
AJ Murtagh (c) vs. Ryan Zero - Antony Khan & Slim Kaisa vs. Tommy Fusion & Zac Hayle
- Jackson Graves vs. Matty Short
- The Alphas of Auckland’s War Room w/ Frankie Quinn
- Bobby Wisheart vs. “Mask of the Red Death” Pariah
