EWA pros hit the mat for Sweet Sixteen Tournament

Hyjinix (far right) grips his leg in agony at the end of his punishing fall. (Stacy Atwell)

Professional wrestling returns to the Tall Cedars Hall in Parkville this Saturday night when the pros from the Eastern Wrestling Association (EWA) hit the mat for their Sweet Sixteen Tournament.

The prize for the winning contender is the Jenkins/Halstead Memorial Trophy – named after Mel Jenkins and Mike Halstead; two EWA enthusiasts who passed away recently. This Saturday’s event will also be the first happening for EWA since January’s Rage in the Cage.

Those who attended January’s event will recall that welterweight fighter Hyjinx took a frightening fall from the top of a triple tag-team pyramid. EWA spokesman Brian Gamble told the Baltimore Post-Examiner that Hyjinx is still laid up after breaking his femur and dislocating his hip. Gamble said his prognosis, however, is good and Hyjinx has started rehab.

Gamble said of particular interest to EWA fans are some of the main storylines:

Wes Mercer caught in a half-Nelson. (Stacy Atwell)
Wes Mercer caught in a half-Nelson. (Stacy Atwell)

 

“Tjay Sykes will be looking for redemption as he was ultimately betrayed by his former manager and girlfriend Alexandria D, causing him to lose at January’s show to his opponent, Desert Storm. Both Tjay and Desert Storm are entered into the Sweet Sixteen Tournament, so there is a possibility they can meet once again on their way to the Trophy.

“Wes Mercer was savagely attacked by Michael’s Amaydo, after they were both defeated by EWA Cruiserweight Champion Pat Anthony in a Fatal 4-way match at Rage In The Cage. Both are entered into the tournament, and are looking to make their way to the finals; especially Michael’s Amaydo, who was a tournament finalist last year, but came up short.

“The EWA Womens Division is starting to take shape, as newcomer Ashley America looks to take on the ‘Native Beast’ Nyla Rose in a qualifying match for the Sweet Sixteen, as the winner will become the first woman ever to enter the tournament.

“And brand new EWA Champion ‘Mr. Mayhem’ Matt Wylde, will defend his newly won championship for the first time, against former EWA Champion, ‘The Baltimore Butcher’ Blood. Blood won the right to face Matt, after being “Lucky Number 17″, which is the only name NOT drawn to participate in the Sweet Sixteen Tournament.”

Gamble added that there may be a few other surprises in store.

All of the action takes place this Saturday night, March 21, at Tall Cedars Hall. The hall is located in Parkville at 2501 Putty Hill Ave., Baltimore, MD 21234. Doors open at 6:45pm with a preshow at 7:15pm. Bell Time for the main card is 7:30pm. Tickets: $15 front row/ $12 General Admission. One word of advice – get there early. The January Rage in the Cage filled the hall to standing room only. For more information, visit EWAMaryland.com.