On March 20, the gymnasium at Carroll County High School will transform into something a little different from the usual basketball court. For one night, it will become a professional wrestling arena filled with high-energy matches, colorful personalities and plenty of crowd excitement.
The event, called Testing Ground, begins at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6 p.m. Organizers expect the show to wrap up around 9 p.m.
Behind the scenes, however, the real story begins with two students.
CCHS Seniors Ethan Foster and Alex Welch are the driving force behind bringing the show to the school as part of their project-based learning class. Instead of building something or completing a traditional assignment, Alex suggested they take on the challenge of organizing and promoting a professional wrestling event because they both love wrestling. They also used skills in their business class at the Carroll County Area Technology Center to organize this event.
Ryan Muniak, co-owner of the Pro Wrestling Alliance said fans can expect a full night of action. Muniak, who has partnered with Ethan and Alex to promote local wrestling, said seven matches are currently planned, including two championship bouts. The Great American Championship will be defended by Benjamin Kimera, while the Honor Championship is currently held by Max Steel.
Most of the competitors are independent wrestlers, meaning they are not signed to major promotions. Expect to see Hillbilly Billy Billy, Max Steel, Crazy Ed, Benjamin Kimera, Lucy Be Sweet, Big Mama,and the Axis of Power.
In addition to the professional wrestlers, Muniak hinted that a few local faculty members may make cameo appearances. One confirmed wrestler is Chad Rose, counselor from the Carroll County area Technology Center.
“We always look for kids to show initiative and we tell them to dream big all the time,” he said. “When you have a student who does that, you should support it.”
That support led Rose into the ring himself. After connecting with Muniak, he completed the necessary physical and licensing through the Kentucky Boxing and Wrestling Commission and has begun training.
“It’s entertainment,” Rose said.
Muniak agrees and compares the performance to stunt work in movies.
“The way we look at it is that nobody focuses on whether or not a movie or TV show is fake,” he said. “They just enjoy the entertainment. You can think of us as stunt men who also act. We’re all like Jackie Chan. We do our own stunts.”
Beyond the spectacle, organizers say the event could also benefit the community.
Muniak said he often hears people say there’s nothing to do in this area for entertainment. “Professional wrestling is exactly what that’s all about. We want people to stay here, enjoy themselves while they’re here and we want to put Carrollton on the map.”
Rose said he is proud of the students for thinking beyond a typical class assignment.
“You don’t see that a lot in young men their age,” he said. “They’re putting together something that is fun, within their wheelhouse, and it also gives back to other people.”
Tickets range from $5 to $20. General admission bleacher seats are $5 for children 12 and under and $10 for ages 13 and up. Ringside seating is $20 for the front row and $15 for the second and third rows.
Tickets are available online at tickets.pwaforever.com or at this link: https://www.ezevent.com/event/details/pwa-testing-ground-tickets-10117
All photos courtesy of T and T Wrestling Photos