Athlone man to feature in local wrestling show

A host of American Wrestling Stars are set to put on an unforgettable show in Athlone later this weekend featuring Athlone man James McManus.

The Baylough native has been performing as a professional wrestler for a number of years and now his hard work has finally paid off.

As a teenager James was in awe of wrestling superstars such as The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin and John Cena. Watching these superhero-like characters inspired James to seek out where he could train to perform as a professional wrestler.

Striking lucky, James found a professional wrestling training school in the Midlands. Although the physicality of the training was a shock to the system, he quickly decided he wanted to pursue this career. James dedicated countless hours and endured rigorous training camps to be physically ready for the high impact nature of this unique art form.

Having performed in shows all across the country, in addition to recently completing tours of the UK, James is motivated now more than ever to put on the performance of a lifetime in front of his hometown supporters.

Speaking ahead of his hometown performance, James said: "Over the past five years, I have been lucky enough to perform on American Wrestling events all over the country and the UK. I have had many opportunities to learn from the best when getting in the ring with top talent from around the world. All of this experience has led me to one of the most exciting moments of my career, getting to perform in front of my hometown crowd. I cannot wait to step through the curtain and hear the roar of the people of Athlone. I hope to put in my best performance to date and leave it all in the ring."

In James' youth he played gaelic football for Clann na nGael and loved playing in front of our local supporters. He added: "I know the community of Athlone are fantastic to rally behind their own and I have no doubt on the 29th Sept in Drum Community Centre I will have young and old cheering me on."

James interest in wrestling was sparked when he was around eight years old when he visited a cousin's house and they stumbled across WWE on Sky TV. James explained: "I had never seen anything like this before, it was like seeing your favourite super hero’s come to life on your TV screen.

"My interest in Pro Wrestling only grew stronger as I went into my teen years. I watched the shows religiously on TV with my favourite performers being The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels. Along with a group of school friends, I attended many WWE live events in Dublin."

James was also inspired by Irish WWE superstar Sheamus to start researching for Pro Wrestling Schools in the country.

The Grand Slam Wrestling Show has a family friendly theme with action, drama and comedy for young and old to enjoy. After a jam packed card of exciting matches, fans in attendance who have opted to pick up a Backstage Pass at the merchandise stand will have the opportunity to meet all the wrestlers and collect autographs and pictures.

The evening of WWE style action will include the body slamming Heavyweights and the top rope flying Cruiserweight dare-devils.

Currently on their country wide tour, Stars of A set of American Wrestling are making a stop in Athlone. The powerhouses of Grand Slam Wrestling will put on a show at the Drum Community Centre on Friday, September 29 at 7.30pm.

Tickets for the American Wrestling event cost €12 and can be purchased now from TICKETS.IE with a limited number of tickets available on the night.