CPW’s ‘Champions of War’ tournament a main event spectacular at the 2023 Arnold Classic Africa
Joshua The Bull becomes the first ever 'Champions of War' title holder for the Arnold Classic exclusive event.
Heart and passion are a prerequisite for competition but all are surpassed by the ability to entertain.
• Also read: 2023 Arnold Classic Africa a resounding success
Champions Pro Wrestling (CPW) was again a main event attraction at the 2023 Arnold Classic Africa. Aspiring pro wrestling talent had an audition opportunity to impress the seasoned members of the stable which was followed by a development show for those still cutting their teeth in the squared circle. The jewels of their weekend bouts were the two-day Champions of War tournament which pitted wrestlers from across the country in an elimination bracket to the death.
Early favourite for the first ever Champions of War title, Alex Desire was first up against journeyman Hector Payne. The experienced Payne looked to have too much for the rusty Desire but was undone when Desire delivered an uncharacteristic piledriver to secure the 1-2-3 count. Joshua The Bull was next up against Matthew Hammer with The Bull sending fans wild when he ended the contest by connecting with a spear as The Hammer was descending from the top rope.
Legendary rivals, The Loudmouth and Super Dragon, again showed why they are among the best with another slobberknocker. As he does, The Loudmouth found a way to win, delivering his signature slam to end the Dragon’s hopes. CPW World Heavyweight Champion, Mr Wrestling, brushed aside the cheeky Kyle Ripley and day one ended on a cliffhanger with Xterminator and Crow needing to be separated by the rest of the locker room when personal bad blood threatened the need for an ambulance.
On championship day, Alex Desire was eliminated when longtime friend and training partner, TJ Tremor, knocked him out while the referee was down. This helped Joshua The Bull get the win, where he would defeat Mr Wrestling to earn a spot in the final. His opponent would be the local hero, Xterminator, who sent The Loudmouth packing before finishing off Crow for good.
The Champions of War tournament will be an Arnold Classic exclusive making the final a prestigious occasion. Two powerhouses clashed in an intense battle where, after a frenetic climax, Joshua The Bull landed his customary spear. Xtermintor appeared to kick out but the referee hit the mat three times, awarding the match and inaugural Champions of War title to Joshua The Bull.
