It’s been a while since I was last in FRONTIER and boy have things changed around here. First off, congratulations on securing a TV deal. I know how hard that is in this day and age. FRONTIER have shown the UK how good the talent here is and now they get the chance to show even more people.
You may just remember me as that guy that called out Benedict Auslander. But there’s more to me than you realise.
I’m the guy who’s been through hell and back, primarily due to one Gabriel Gambino. I’m the guy who is a former MWA Millennium Champion, first ever Peach State Wrestling Tag-Team Champion; I am “The Peoples Choice” August Joyce.
And this weekend I make a trip to Croydon to face Kenchi Yamamoto, the GFC Heavyweight Champion. This guy’s a monster, a wrestling machine. Anyone who saw his match with Cody Williams can attest to that. Heck, I’d call that a match of the year candidate for sure. Who knows, maybe Kenchi will go on to set all kinds of records with that title around his waist; maybe Cody will get his deserved re-match and steal that belt away from him.
But whatever the future holds for Kenchi; this weekend there’s no title on the line, only pride, respect and honour.
Kenchi, every time you step into that ring the pride is evident and the respect for your opponent is clear to see. You honour the GFC Championship and the fine people of Japan each and every night.
Now let’s not make this some kind of Kenchi appreciation night. Because as much as I do admire you, know that beating you is the reason I’m here in the UK. I’ve been fortunate to wrestle in front of small passionate crowds and huge cheering crowds the world over. I’ve faced the best wrestlers from Alberta to Zagreb. But I’ve never beaten a Heavyweight Champion.
But every streak has to end sometime, right? Who’s to say that I won’t upset the odds and keep Yamamoto down for the count of three?
Cody Williams, Kevin Hardaway, Jason Talbot… all have made it no secret they’re after the GFC Championship. But if little old August Joyce comes along and beats the champion in a non title match… what then?