Once Upon A Turnbuckle

Chris Tetreault-Blay

Author Chris Tetreault-Blay chronicles his earlier years growing up as a wrestling fan in the early 90s, reliving his memories of the ‘golden era’ and welcoming very special guests from the past, present and future of the 'one true sport'. read less
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Episodes

Ep. 54 - 'Bret & The Bulldog: 30 Years On' with Steven Bell, author of 'Dynamite & Davey: The Explosive Lives of The British Bulldogs'
24-08-2022
Ep. 54 - 'Bret & The Bulldog: 30 Years On' with Steven Bell, author of 'Dynamite & Davey: The Explosive Lives of The British Bulldogs'
August 29th 1992. Wembley Stadium, England. The date that will live on in the hearts of all wrestling fans as being that which gave us one of the greatest PPV's (SummerSlam '92) and arguably one of the greatest wrestling matches in history, as 'The British Bulldog' Davey Boy Smith realised his dream and defeated his brother-in-law, Bret 'Hitman' Hart, for the WWF Intercontinental Championship in front of over 80,000 of his countrymen. It was a match in itself which was steeped in drama, intrigue and masterful storytelling in the ring, and is little wonder why we are still talking about it and reliving the magic of that match 30 years later. For this very special episode of the show, Chris welcomes back Steven Bell (author of the incredible 'Dynamite & Davey: The Explosive Lives of The British Bulldogs) to watch the match in its entirety once more, with Steve using his extensive and knowledge that led him to write his fantastic book to help pad out the backstory of this epic encounter. 'Dynamite & Davey: The Explosive Lives of The British Bulldogs', is available to order from Amazon and all major stockists, as well as from Steve's website below. To keep up with Steve's latest news, be sure to check out his social media pages too: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dynamite-Davey-The-Explosive-Lives-of-The-British-Bulldogs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steven_bell1985/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/BulldogsBook123 Website: https://www.stevenbellwrites.com/ Enjoyed this episode? Then please be sure to subscribe/follow and also follow me on my social media for further news of future shows. Facebook: @OnceUponATurnbuckle & @DMTPodNet Instagram: @onceuponaturnbuckle & @dmtpodnet Twitter: @DMTPodNet **Theme song 'Halloween Night' used courtesy of Jayde Garrow.** --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/onceuponaturnbuckle/message
Ep. 52 - 'Fire, Blood & All Things Good' with ex-WWE writer and author, Brian R. Solomon
22-06-2022
Ep. 52 - 'Fire, Blood & All Things Good' with ex-WWE writer and author, Brian R. Solomon
In this gem of a show, Chris welcomes Brian R. Solomon, writer, author and host of the 'Shut Up & Wrestle Podcast'.   Brian has made his name as not only a writer and editor for WWE Magazine in the early 2000s but also as an author of renowned wrestling books including 'WWE Legends', 'Pro Wrestling FAQ' and his latest release, 'Blood & Fire: The Unbelievable Real-Life Story of Wrestling's Original Sheik'.  He is also a contributor to well-respected publications, Pro Wrestling Illustrated and Inside The Ropes.   Listen in as Brian recalls his time working for WWE, his own experience and take on the doomed WWF/WCW 'Invasion' angle and how and when he found his love for wrestling history.  Brian also talks about the challenges faced in bringing the story of The Sheik, wrestling's most hated and mysterious star, to life.   To keep up-to-date with Brian's current and upcoming news, be sure to follow him on social media:   Facebook: @BrianSolomonWriter  Instagram: @brianrsolomon  Twitter: @BrianRSolomon   You can also find his books to order via Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and his podcast 'Shut Up & Wrestle' is available on all major platforms.  #OnceUponATurnbuckle #BrianRSolomon #TheSheik Enjoyed this episode? Then please be sure to subscribe/follow and also follow me on my social media for further news of future shows. Facebook: @OnceUponATurnbuckle Instagram: @onceuponaturnbuckle Twitter: @TetreaultBlay **Theme song 'Halloween Night' used courtesy of Jayde Garrow.** --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/onceuponaturnbuckle/message
Ep. 50 - 'The Art of Wrestling - Part Two' with artist and ex-WWF designer, Tom Fleming
30-05-2022
Ep. 50 - 'The Art of Wrestling - Part Two' with artist and ex-WWF designer, Tom Fleming
For the milestone 50th episode of Once Upon A Turnbuckle, Chris welcomes artist Tom Fleming back to the show for a return visit!   In our last meeting, Tom shared many memories from his days as an artist and designer for the WWF/E in the early-90's, where he was responsible for designing the iconic looks for legends such as Razor Ramon, Adam Bomb, 1-2-3 Kid, Papa Shango, amongst many others, and even gave us the unforgettable Thanksgiving-themed artwork for Survivor Series '93.   Tom returns to the show to talk about his brand-new wrestling-related NFT art project, in partnership with Fight Capital, for which he has produced 23 original paintings of wrestling legends including Andre The Giant, 'Macho Man' Randy Savage, Kurt Angle, Road Warrior Hawk and the British Bulldogs.   We also delve back into his wrestling past to talk about his memories of creating the very sceptre that was used in the coronation ceremony at King of The Ring '93!   Another one not to be missed!   To keep up with all of Tom's latest work and updates, be sure to follow him on social media:   Facebook: @tflemart (or The Art of Tom Fleming)  Instagram: @tomflemingart  Twitter: @FLEM_ART   To find out more about the NFT art project and how to get involved, head over to: https://www.fightcapital.io/  Enjoyed this episode?    Then please be sure to subscribe/follow and also follow me on my social media for further news of future shows.     Facebook: @OnceUponATurnbuckle    Instagram: @onceuponaturnbuckle    Twitter: @TetreaultBlay      **Theme song 'Halloween Night' used courtesy of Jayde Garrow.** --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/onceuponaturnbuckle/message
Ep. 49 - 'Truth Bee Told' with wrestling legend, 'Killer Bee' Brian Blair
23-05-2022
Ep. 49 - 'Truth Bee Told' with wrestling legend, 'Killer Bee' Brian Blair
It's time to welcome another member of wrestling royalty to the show, as Chris has the honour of talking to wrestling legend B. Brian Blair! Blair is best known as one-half of the hugely-popular tag team The Killer Bee's, along with 'Jumping' Jim Brunzell, who many still argue should have had a run as the WWF Tag Team Champions in the '80s. But as this interview, and Brian's phenomenal autobiography 'Truth Bee Told', will attest - there is so much more to the man behind the Bee! Brian recalls memories of his territory days, performing with Brunzell at three of the first four WrestleMania's, his role as CEO and President of the famous Cauliflower Alley Club, through to his recent personal tragedies and health battles. Listen as Brian also talks about his book, his upcoming Vice TV series and the new Killer Bee's action figures (courtesy of Chella Toys), in one of the most memorable and inspirational episodes yet! You can order your copy of 'Truth Bee Told' NOW via Amazon and the official Killer Bees website (www.thekillerbees.net). To support the Cauliflower Alley Club, please visit their website: www.caulifloweralleyclub.org Also, be sure to check out Brian on social media to keep updated with all his latest news: Facebook: @bbrianblairofficial Twitter: @KillerbeeB1 Enjoyed this episode? Then please be sure to subscribe/follow and also follow me on my social media for further news of future shows.  Facebook: @OnceUponATurnbuckle  Instagram: @onceuponaturnbuckle  Twitter: @TetreaultBlay   **Theme song 'Halloween Night' used courtesy of Jayde Garrow.** --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/onceuponaturnbuckle/message
Ep. 48 - 'Inside The Ropes' with legendary wrestling writer Keith Elliot Greenberg
09-05-2022
Ep. 48 - 'Inside The Ropes' with legendary wrestling writer Keith Elliot Greenberg
Once Upon a Turnbuckle is truly back with a bang!   Keith Elliot Greenberg is not only a New York Times best-selling author and TV producer but is known by millions of wrestling fans worldwide due to his 22 years spent writing for the WWF/E Magazine, starting in 1985. He has also co-authored the autobiographies of wrestling legends such as Ric Flair, 'Superstar' Billy Graham and 'Cassy' Freddie Blassie.   In this interview, Keith discusses his writing work, how he landed the gig with WWF, a couple of memorable stories written about Bret Hart and Randy Savage, through to his current work with UK-based magazine 'Inside The Ropes' and his upcoming book, 'Follow The Buzzards: Pro Wrestling in the Age of COVID-19'!   'Follow The Buzzards' is available for pre-order via Amazon and all major stockists, where you can also find Keith's other books available.   To keep up-to-date with Keith's work and upcoming news, be sure to follow him on social media:   Twitter: @KeithEGreenberg Instagram: @keithegreenberg Enjoyed this episode? Then please be sure to subscribe/follow and also follow me on my social media for further news of future shows.   Facebook: @OnceUponATurnbuckle / @DMTPodNet Instagram: @onceuponaturnbuckle / @dmtpodnet Twitter: @TetreaultBlay   **Theme song 'Halloween Night' used courtesy of Jayde Garrow.** --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/onceuponaturnbuckle/message
Ep. 47 - 'Beers, Beatdowns & Bragging Rights' with Pro Wrestling Karnage stars Beers X Beatdowns
17-11-2021
Ep. 47 - 'Beers, Beatdowns & Bragging Rights' with Pro Wrestling Karnage stars Beers X Beatdowns
In what will be the final-ever episode for Once Upon A Turnbuckle, it seemed only fitting that Chris welcomes to the show two of the driving forces behind Pro Wrestling Karnage - returning guest 'Dangerous' Danny Owens and the reigning Outbreak Champion, Brewski Blanch. We get to learn more about Blanch's own wrestling journey, when he made the transition from a fan to a wrestler, to a manager and then back again, and what it was like to make his in-ring return this year after a 13-year absence, through to winning the recent Outbreak Championship battle royal at 'Karnage From The Krypt' to become the first-ever Outbreak champion. Chris also puts Danny & Blanch to the test in the first-ever (and only!) 'Brains of Beatdown' quiz! Both men test their Survivor Series & Halloween Havoc knowledge to see who will walk away with the bragging rights as the true brain of BXB. Be sure to keep up-to-date with Beers X Beatdowns and Pro Wrestling Karnage on their social media pages, for more information on where you can catch one of their next shows! Facebook: @DangerousDannyOwens / @BrewskiBlanchBXB / @BeersXBeatdowns / @ProWrestlingKarnage Instagram: @dangerousdannyowens / @brewskiblanchbxb / @beersxbeatdowns / @pro_wrestling_karnage Twitter: @PWKarnage Enjoyed this episode?  Please be sure to subscribe and also follow on social media for further news of future shows. Facebook: @OnceUponATurnbuckle Instagram: @onceuponaturnbuckle Twitter: @TetreaultBlay **Theme song 'Halloween Night' used courtesy of Jayde Garrow.** --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/onceuponaturnbuckle/message
Ep. 46 - 'Welcome To Slammasters!' with wrestler, promoter & co-founder of Slammasters Wrestling, Jon Walker (aka Necrofago)
04-11-2021
Ep. 46 - 'Welcome To Slammasters!' with wrestler, promoter & co-founder of Slammasters Wrestling, Jon Walker (aka Necrofago)
It's safe to say that the Welsh independent wrestling scene is as hot now as it's ever been, and it's in no small part due to the actions of people like my latest guest, wrestler and promoter Jon Walker. Like many others, Jon grew up as a childhood wrestling fan and has found himself playing an active role in the industry in more recent years. Here he shares his story of how/when/where he discovered wrestling and what led him to want to become an in-ring performer himself. We will also hear how Jon made his impromptu in-ring debut on a card headlined by wrestling legends Doug Williams and Cody Rhodes and how his in-ring persona has evolved over the years, leading to the development of his Lucha-style gimmick, Necrofago. Jon then discusses how he and a friend embarked on their own journey as promoters, founding the increasingly-popular Slammasters Wrestling promotion in Wales, and the struggles that came with launching a new promotion right before lockdown in 2020. Jon's is a truly inspiring story, and one that befits the surging popularity that Slammasters Wrestling has already experienced! To keep up-to-date on the latest news from Jon, Necrofago and Slammasters Wrestling, be sure to check out and follow their social media pages: Facebook: @slammasterswrestling and @necrofagolucha Instagram: @slammasterswrestling and @necrofagolucha Twitter: @SlammastersWres and @necrofagolucha Website: www.slammasterswrestling.com Enjoyed this episode?  Please be sure to subscribe and also follow on social media for further news of future shows. Facebook: @OnceUponATurnbuckle Instagram: @onceuponaturnbuckle Twitter: @TetreaultBlay **Theme song 'Halloween Night' used courtesy of Jayde Garrow.** --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/onceuponaturnbuckle/message
Ep. 45 - 'The Roar Of The Lion' with British wrestling star, Eddie Ryan
03-11-2021
Ep. 45 - 'The Roar Of The Lion' with British wrestling star, Eddie Ryan
In this episode, Chris has the pleasure of sitting down with another top star of not only REACH Wrestling but British wrestling as a whole - 'The English Lion' Eddie Ryan! Eddie has been a force in British wrestling for a number of years, holding titles pretty much everywhere he has been and travelling the world in the process. He is currently the #1 contender to the REACH Heavyweight championship (currently held by Charlie Sterling), and as you'll hear in this interview, Eddie is very accustomed to big-stage matches, especially if front of his hometown crowd in Plymouth. Hear Eddie discuss how he first discovered wrestling, who were his early heroes and how he carved an in-ring career for himself. Also, we hear what it was like when he shared the ring with legends such as Hardcore Holly, Tommy Dreamer, current AEW star Jake Hager, and even wrestling future WWE Champion Drew McIntyre for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship! To top it off, Eddie shares the story of how he helped bring 5-Star Wrestling and WWE NXT to Plymouth, as well as how the reaction he received from the crowd caused Triple-H to call an audible and make changes on-the-spot to an NXT show! Eddie will face Charlie Sterling for the REACH Heavyweight Championship in Plymouth on Saturday 5th December. You can find many of Eddie's matches on YouTube, including those against Hardcore Holly and Jake Hager. To find out more about Eddie Ryan's latest news and appearances, be sure to check out his social media pages: Facebook: Eddie Ryan Instagram: @englishlion1 And to find out more about REACH Wrestling's upcoming shows, and for more information on the REACH Academy: Website: www.ReachWrestling.com Facebook: @REACHwrestling Instagram: @reach_wrestling Twitter: @REACHWrestling And also check out loads of free content - including matches from their free 'UNIT 10' shows - available on the REACH Wrestling YouTube channel Enjoyed this episode?  Please be sure to subscribe and also follow on social media for further news of future shows. Facebook: @OnceUponATurnbuckle Instagram: @onceuponaturnbuckle Twitter: @TetreaultBlay **Theme song 'Halloween Night' used courtesy of Jayde Garrow.** --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/onceuponaturnbuckle/message
Ep. 44 - 'The Diamond In The Rough' with REACH Academy Champion, Jordan Sparkes
27-10-2021
Ep. 44 - 'The Diamond In The Rough' with REACH Academy Champion, Jordan Sparkes
After speaking with REACH Wrestling's Jason King in our last episode, it seemed only fitting to welcome Jason's tag team partner and current REACH Academy champion Jordan Sparkes to the show! Jordan shares his earliest memories and inspirations as a kid growing up discovering wrestling for himself, and how and when he decided to pursue his own in-ring career. We also delve into the 'art of the promo' and Jordan's own experience of trying to hone the perfect heel character. The 'Diamond In The Rough' also discusses the importance of winning the REACH Academy Championship, his favourite matches as a fan and performer (thus far), who he has learned most from in his REACH journey to date and - as is becoming a new tradition - who would make the cut on his own 'Mount Rushmore' of wrestling. To find out more about Jordan Sparkes' latest news and appearances, be sure to check out his social media pages: Facebook: @JordanSparkesPW Instagram: @jordansparkespw Twitter: JordanSparkes7 And to find out more about REACH Wrestling's upcoming shows, and for more information on the REACH Academy: Website: www.ReachWrestling.com Facebook: @REACHwrestling Instagram: @reach_wrestling Twitter: @REACHWrestling And also check out loads of free content - including matches from their free 'UNIT 10' shows - available on the REACH Wrestling YouTube channel Enjoyed this episode?  Please be sure to subscribe and also follow on social media for further news of future shows. Facebook: @OnceUponATurnbuckle Instagram: @onceuponaturnbuckle Twitter: @TetreaultBlay **Theme song 'Halloween Night' used courtesy of Jayde Garrow.** --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/onceuponaturnbuckle/message
Ep. 43 - 'In The (REACH) Army Now' with REACH Wrestling's Jason King
21-10-2021
Ep. 43 - 'In The (REACH) Army Now' with REACH Wrestling's Jason King
Chris turns the spotlight to another gem in the British wrestling circuit, with the first episode delving into Devon-based promotion, REACH Wrestling. It seems only fitting that the first guest is Jason King, one of the two founders of REACH. Jason discusses his earliest wrestling memories and influences, the challenges he faced when deciding to pursue a career between the ropes and learning more about how to successfully build and run his own promotion. Jason also discusses the things that he feels helps to separate REACH Wrestling from a lot of other indy promotions, including their dedication at growing their own talent courtesy of the in-house REACH Academy. As you will soon discover, this is a man who has been dedicated to not only carving his own path in the industry but helping others find and reach their own potential (pun intended). I am sure everyone will agree that Jason's passion for the game is obvious and very contagious! To find out more about Jason King's latest news and appearances, be sure to check out his social media pages: Facebook: @jasonkingETG Instagram: official_jason_king And to find out more about REACH Wrestling's upcoming shows, and for more information on the REACH Academy: Website: www.ReachWrestling.com Facebook: @REACHwrestling Instagram: @reach_wrestling Twitter: @REACHWrestling And also check out loads of free content - including matches from their free 'UNIT 10' shows - available on the REACH Wrestling YouTube channel Enjoyed this episode?  Please be sure to subscribe and also follow on social media for further news of future shows. Facebook: @OnceUponATurnbuckle Instagram: @onceuponaturnbuckle Twitter: @TetreaultBlay **Theme song 'Halloween Night' used courtesy of Jayde Garrow.** --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/onceuponaturnbuckle/message
Ep. 42 - 'Not Just Another Bearded Ramble' with British wrestler and podcaster Cueball
20-10-2021
Ep. 42 - 'Not Just Another Bearded Ramble' with British wrestler and podcaster Cueball
For this episode, Chris is joined by none other than the "beer-drinking, heavy metal-listening, bald-headed brawler" himself, British indie wrestling star and fellow podcaster, Cueball! Cueball has made a name for himself across many British indie promotions, including Ring Wrestling Stars, Pro Wrestling Karnage and Slammasters. From the moment he witnessed the first-ever Hell In A Cell match back in '97, Cueball knew he wanted to follow in his hero The Undertaker's footsteps in claiming souls and taking names in the wrestling ring.  We get to hear about when and how he started his own wrestling journey, those who inspired his in-ring style and persona, who he would pick to compete against in his dream match (and what the stipulation would be), as well as how Covid-19 led to him creating his hugely-popular podcast, 'Cueball's Bearded Rambles.' To keep up-to-date with Cueball's latest news and appearances, check out his Facebook page @CueBallWrestler. Be sure to also check out his 'Cueball's Bearded Rambles' podcast for yourselves as well by following the show's pages: YouTube channel: 'Cueball's Bearded Channel' Facebook: @CueballsBeardedRambles Enjoyed this episode?  Please be sure to subscribe and also follow on social media for further news of future shows. Facebook: @OnceUponATurnbuckle Instagram: @onceuponaturnbuckle Twitter: @TetreaultBlay **Theme song 'Halloween Night' used courtesy of Jayde Garrow.** --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/onceuponaturnbuckle/message
Ep. 40 - 'A Rose By No Other Name' with British wrestling veteran Jonny Rose
16-10-2021
Ep. 40 - 'A Rose By No Other Name' with British wrestling veteran Jonny Rose
In this episode, Chris welcomes another heavy-hitter from the British wrestling scene with veteran '#1' Jonny Rose! Jonny recalls his earliest memories of discovering wrestling as a kid in the crowd watching the like of Danny Boy Collins and Big Daddy, to finding himself as a ten-year-old helping to carry the ring in at another show, through to his fondest recollections of entertaining crowds as a wrestler and promoter himself, including the time he spent in and out of the ring with wrestling legend Tracey Smothers. Jonny can truly be considered one of British wrestling's 'working men', often juggling responsibilities as a promoter, perform and helping to run a pub, all at the same time! To top it off, Jonny is still an avid old-school wrestling fan today, so there was much to be discussed in this one. Hear which events, matches and superstars are still Jonny's go-to when not in the ring himself, whilst also giving us probably the most intriguing 'Mount Rushmore of Wrestling' so far! Keep up-to-date with Jonny Rose and his promotion HCW on Facebook: @Jonny-1-Rose and @HCWIWA Enjoyed this episode?  Please be sure to subscribe and also follow on social media for further news of future shows. Facebook: @OnceUponATurnbuckle Instagram: @onceuponaturnbuckle Twitter: @TetreaultBlay **Theme song 'Halloween Night' used courtesy of Jayde Garrow.** --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/onceuponaturnbuckle/message
Ep. 36 - 'Behind The Karnage' with 'Dangerous' Danny Owens
10-09-2021
Ep. 36 - 'Behind The Karnage' with 'Dangerous' Danny Owens
On this episode, Chris delves once more behind the curtain of the latest super-power on the UK indy wrestling scene by welcoming co-founder, promoter and one of the top stars of Pro Wrestling Karnage, 'Dangerous' Danny Owens! Danny discusses how he discovered wrestling as a childhood fan, the role current Pro Wrestling Karnage Heavyweight Champion Caiman played in training him and getting him ready for his first tryout in the ring, through to the birth of Pro Wrestling Karnage as a promotion which culminated in their explosive debut show last month 'The First Mutation'. We also discuss who Danny would put on his own 'Mount Rushmore' of wrestling and what WrestleMania moment he would have loved to have been involved in! We get a real glimpse into one man's journey from childhood fan to in-ring star to helping create one of the freshest and most exciting new promotions on the scene. Not one to be missed! Be sure to keep up-to-date with 'Dangerous' Danny Owens, Beers X Beatdowns and Pro Wrestling Karnage on their social media pages, for more information on where you can catch one of their next shows! Facebook: @DangerousDannyOwens / @BeersXBeatdowns / @ProWrestlingKarnage Instagram: @dangerousdannyowens / @beersxbeatdowns / @pro_wrestling_karnage Twitter: @PWKarnage Enjoyed this episode?  Please be sure to subscribe and also follow on social media for further news of future shows. Facebook: @OnceUponATurnbuckle Instagram: @onceuponaturnbuckle Twitter: @TetreaultBlay **Theme song 'Halloween Night' used courtesy of Jayde Garrow.** --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/onceuponaturnbuckle/message