deathmatch wrestling - Particle Don

October 14, 2016October 14, 2019

Nathan Hamilton Interview

Nathan Hamilton has done commentary for multiple Carnage Cups, and appeared in the critically acclaimed 10 Years of Carnage documentary.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Son-of-Celluloid-144884965585421/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/fromhell13
Son of Celluloid blog: https://sonofcelluloid1.blogspot.com/
Email: fromhell13@aol.com

Particle Don: What got you into wrestling? Did you watch growing up?

Nathan: I actually wasn’t allowed to watch it growing up. My folks said it gave me too many ideas of things to do to my brothers. I’ve never been good at following rules, though.

I first discovered WCW in 1988 just flipping through the channels around 6:05 one Saturday. I was 8 years old, and my family had just moved to Atlanta. I discovered WWF shortly thereafter. From then on, I was hooked.

Particle Don: Who was your favorite wrestler growing up?

Nathan: When I was really young, I dug anyone in face paint. I guess they knew their market. My first favorites were Sting and The Ultimate Warrior. I also followed Road Warriors, Demolition, and the Great Muta.

I hated Ric Flair for the longest time (he was messing with my boy Sting), but I secretly thought that he was the coolest motherfucker on earth. I knew who the real world champ was.

Then along came The Undertaker, and he was the most amazing thing I had ever seen. He immediately became my new favorite, and remained my favorite for the rest of my kayfabe believing days.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite classic WWF entrance theme?

Nathan: Here comes the Axe, here comes the Smasher…

Particle Don: Do you watch current WWE? If so, who are your favorite wrestlers?

Nathan: Right now, WWE is basically the indie wrestling all-stars from 5-10 years ago, so I’m loving it. Owens, Cesaro, Rollins, Ambrose, Styles, Zayn, and so many others are killing it. I love me some Bray Wyatt. He could be one of the greatest heels in WWE history, but creative has absolutely no clue how to use him.

I’m digging the chicks, too. You put any combination of Charlotte, Sasha, Bailey, and Becky in there, and they’ll steal the damn show.

Particle Don: When did you start getting interested in deathmatches?

Nathan: ECW. I remember watching Cactus Jack and Terry Funk (both of whom I remembered from WCW) mixing it up, and hearing Joey Styles talk about their insane exploding barbed wire deathmatches from Japan. So I went to eBay (which was new at the time) and ordered a bootleg VHS called Best of Barbed Wire Vol. 1-4.

The picture quality was shit, but I watched that tape a million times. It was all Japanese stuff. Onita. Pogo. Hyabusa. The Headhunters. Cactus. Funk. Gladiator. Tanaka. Leatherface. Matsunaga. All the greats bleeding all over the place. I still have that tape, actually.

Particle Don: What’s your favorite deathmatch weapon?

Nathan: Barbed wire. It’s so versatile. It allows you to be so creative.

Particle Don: How did you meet Kevin Brannen? What’s the story behind the tradition of the Nathan’s Sadistic Playground match at Carnage Cup?

Nathan: I’m gonna answer these two at the same time, because they’re basically the same story.

The first deathmatch show I ever attended live was Carnage Cup 7. I didn’t meet Kevin that night, but I did make a bunch of weapons for the Fans Bring The Weapons match, including the infamous barbed wire toilet seat. In the coming weeks, I was listening to podcasts about the show, and people kept bringing up that damn toilet seat.

It then got brought up on Facebook, and I commented that maybe there should just be a “Nathan Brings the Weapons” match at the next Carnage Cup. Some dude named Kevin Brannen responded “OK”.

I had no idea who he was, so I went to his profile. Low and behold, it was the promoter. I messaged him and asked if he was serious. He told me I could build anything I wanted. I don’t think he realized what kind of sick bastard he was talking to at the time.

I finally met him in person at the next IWA-DS show, and the first Nathan’s Sadistic Playground match took place at Carnage Cup 8. There’s been one at every Carnage Cup since, and I dare say, I’m responsible or some of the sickest weapons ever devised. They don’t call me “The Mad Scientist of Ultraviolence” for nothing. But there’s always a barbed wire toilet seat, and the original one now hangs on my bedroom wall. You’ve gotta remember your roots.

Particle Don: How did you start commentating for IWA Deep-South?

Nathan: Mad Man Pondo showed up at Carnage Cup 8 for the sole purpose of kicking the shit out of Smooth (their commentator at the time), so Smooth didn’t show up. Without someone on the mic, Kevin came up to me and asked if I wanted to do commentary on my Nathan’s Playground match. I was three sheets to the wind, but being a wrestling commentator had always been my dream, so I jumped at the chance.

I ended up doing the rest of the show, and he must have liked what he heard, because I called every IWA-DS show from then on. That’s why I always do commentary at least half drunk. I like to say that I’m the Deathmatch Gordon Solie. Not that I would ever compare my skills to the greatest of all time. It’s just that, like him, I’ve never called a match sober.

Nathan during the intro of the Carnage Cup 9 DVD. — Nathan during the intro of the Carnage Cup 9 DVD

Particle Don: Describe the construction of the Deathbed you made for Carnage Cup 10. How long did this take to make? Where did you get the bed frame?

Nathan: Each Nathan’s Sadistic Playground match has had a Deathbed, and I’ve had to construct all of them on site. One of those would be impossible to transport from Atlanta assembled. That last bed frame was donated by one of my best friends, Nicole. I knew I had to top the other two, so in addition to the entire spool of barbed wire wrapped around the rails, I added the dangling light tube platform. These are the kind of thoughts I have when I’m lying awake in bed at night. New ways to make people bleed.

Particle Don: What was it like announcing alongside legend Kris Kloss at the Carnage Cup? What were his thoughts on the Cup? Was it the most brutal spectacle he’d ever seen?

Nathan: Working with Kloss was awesome. I went in prepared for him to be a dick, honestly. I figured that after working with XPW, he would come in with an ego and an attitude. Nothing could have been further from the truth.

He was awesome. Nicest guy in the world. We had a great time. We passed a flask of whiskey and talked wrestling between matches. I thought we had pretty good chemistry on the mic, too. You know how you hear wrestlers talk about how being in the ring with more experienced veterans makes them better wrestlers? I feel the same way about commentary.

I learned things, especially about timing, from commentating with Kloss. The only bad thing about working with him is that early on day two, when you’re severely hung over, that trademark “Kloss Shriek” feels like an icepick in your brain. He told me, away from the mics and cameras, that Carnage Cup 10 was indeed the most brutal tournament he had ever witnessed live.

Particle Don: Do you have any idea when we might see a return of IWA Deep-South and the Carnage Cup?

Nathan: I can’t speak officially, but I think we’ve seen the end of IWA-Deep South. I don’t think it’s coming back. I have my own personal feelings about the way it ended, but you’d have to ask Kevin what the deal with that is yourself. I don’t think it’s something I can really speak on.

However, the Carnage Cup tournament isn’t retired. We’re planning on having another one in 2017, and some ideas are in the works that have never been done before. Carnage Cup 11 is gonna be some next level shit. I just don’t think it’s going to be under the IWA-DS name, unfortunately.

Particle Don: Have you watched any $10 Dollar Rasslin’? What is your opinion of this promotion?

Nathan: I’ve seen one show, the Softcore Cup. That was fun for what it was. I enjoyed being the deathmatch guy on a deathmatch parody show. Overall, though, comedy wrestling isn’t my cup of tea. I like it sprinkled into a show for variety, but not as the primary style. That’s just me, though. Apparently a lot of people do dig it, ’cause the houses have been damn good.

Particle Don: What are your thoughts on New Jack being announced for the $10 Dollar Rasslin’ Death Match Mafia tournament?

New Jack vs. Tracy Smothers - a rare treat — New Jack vs. Tracy Smothers – a rare treat

Nathan: It makes me wish I could be there. Kevin scheduled that show at the worst possible time for me. In the horror business, the weekend of Halloween is the busiest of the year. So, sadly, I’m not going to be involved in that show. I hate it too, ’cause I’ve always wanted to call a New Jack match.

Particle Don: Maybe New Jack will come back to the Deep-South sometime. How do you think the Death Match Mafia tourney will differ from the Carnage Cup?

Nathan: I couldn’t tell you since I’m not involved with this one, but I do know that Kevin always has something interesting up his sleeve, so it’s gonna be a hell of a show.

Particle Don: Have you been keeping up with this year’s deathmatch tourneys? If so, which ones stand out to you?

Nathan: I still have a few that I need to see, like Slave to the Deathmatch and Lord of the Hardcore. I really dug Zandig’s Tournament of Survival for its old-school feel, and Milestone’s Death 2 Tag Team tourney because we haven’t had a tag team deathmatch tournament in the US for years. Those guys tore it up.

Nathan Hamilton — Nathan loves haunted houses

Particle Don: What types of horror movie convention panels do you host? What do you discuss?

Nathan: I’ve done everything from fan discussion forums, to interviews with horror icons, to panels with the hottest up and coming independent filmmakers. Those are probably my favorite, because independent horror cinema is my passion, and if I can have a little part in spreading the word about the goodness coming out of that scene, I’m a happy man. The good horror flicks aren’t the ones at the theater, folks. Dig deeper.

Particle Don: Who are a few horror movie icons you’ve met at your last convention?

Nathan: Oh man. Over the years I’ve met and interviewed Sid Haig, Bill Moseley, Tony Todd, Doug Bradley, my personal hero Joe Bob Briggs, Phil Anselmo, Doyle from The Misfits, Clint Howard, the entire cast of Nightbreed, Linnea Quigley, Gunnar Hansen, Tom Towles (RIP), most of the cast of The Devil’s Rejects, Cenobites, Scream Queens, legends, cult figures, you name it.

I did a shot with Ric Flair at one of the Days of the Dead cons. Hell, I’ve even had Gary Busey pull a knife on me.

Particle Don: You used to have a YouTube web series called The Son of Celluloid where you discussed horror movies and conducted interviews. Unfortunately, the show is no longer in production. Do you think you’ll ever upload the lost episodes from season 2?

Click the image to view season one of The Son Of Celluloid show

Nathan: I may. I have a lot of footage that was supposed to comprise Season 2. It all needs to be edited, cleaned up, and the sound mastered. Honestly, I just haven’t had the time or desire to spend the necessary hours. If people want to see it, though, I’ll put it up. Let me know, folks.

Particle Don: What are a few of your top horror movies?

Nathan: My favorite of all time is Night of the Living Dead. Other than that, I’ll just toss a few out there off the top of my head.

Hellraiser 1 and 2, Texas Chainsaw Massacre 1 and 2, Found, Baskin, Deathgasm, Phantasm 1 and 2, Return of the Living Dead 1 through 3, The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, Sharktopus, Motel Hell, Last House on the Left, From Beyond, The Devil’s Rejects, and Anything Fulci.

Others include The Corman/Price Poe flicks, Pumpkinhead, Freaks, Basket Case, Black Sunday, Videodrome, Wizard of Gore, Blood Sucking Freaks, Ilsa She Wolf of the SS, Galaxy of Terror, Serbian Film, Nightbreed, Ebola Syndrome, Private Parts, I Drink Your Blood, Anything Coffin Joe, Zombies of Mora Tao, Burial Ground, Flower of Flesh and Blood, Spider Baby, Maniac, and the Universal Frankenstein movies. The list could go on and on and on for days.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite non-horror movie?

Nathan: A few. Clerks, Airplane, UHF, The Warriors, The Crow, Commando, and Bloodsport, among others.

Particle Don: How did you meet The Casket Creatures? How many times do you think you’ll see them play live this October?

Nathan: I met the Casket Creatures just by being in the Atlanta horror scene together. Those dudes are some of my best friends in the world. I’ve directed music videos for them, they’ve played events for me. I love partying with those guys. I’ll probably see at least 6 or 7 of their shows this October. They’re basically Atlanta’s Halloween house band.

Particle Don: Do you play any musical instruments? Have you ever been in a band?

Nathan: I have zero musical talent, but I have been the lead singer for a few bands. What can I say? What I lack in vocal ability I make up for in stage presence.

Particle Don: What are a few of your favorite metal bands?

Nathan: That’s almost like asking me about horror movies. I’ll narrow it down to the ones on my vest.

Ghost, Iron Maiden, Macabre, Sleep, Crowbar, Shining, Lifelover, Testament, Pantera, Kreator, Inquisition, Deceased, Slayer, Danzig, and Motorhead.

I also like GWAR, and am interested in a lot more than just metal. I listen to horror punk, 70’s soul, old outlaw country, underground hip-hop, and all kinds of stuff.

Particle Don: Do you listen to the Insane Clown Posse?

Nathan: I used to. I was a huge fan back during the first Jokers Card deck era. Riddlebox is still my favorite. After Jeckel Brothers, however, they totally changed their sound. I did not dig said new sound. So no, not any more. I still dig other juggalo acts like Twiztid and Boondox, though. And you cannot fuck with that first Dark Lotus album.

Nathan interviewed Twiztid for Prick Magazine back in 2002

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite 90’s cartoon?

Nathan: Probably Batman: The Animated Series. Animaniacs would be a close second. Actually, wait. Was Invader Zim 90’s?

Particle Don: It originally aired from 2001 to 2002.

Particle Don: What’s your favorite food?

Nathan: Seafood. I’m all about anything that comes out of the water.

Particle Don: What’s your favorite candy?

Nathan: I’m diabetic, so I have to go with the sugar-free stuff. The sugar-free Reeses cups are probably my favorite.

Particle Don: Do you have a preferred type of soda you like to drink?

Nathan: Diet Mountain Dew flows through my veins. Diet Grape Faygo is the shit, too.

Particle Don: What’s your favorite TV show?

Nathan: I don’t watch much TV. Tons of movies, but not much TV. Actually, the only (non-WWE) TV shows I watch are Walking Dead, Jeopardy, and Lucha Underground.

Particle Don: Do you watch the show Ancient Aliens? What is your opinion on the Ancient Astronaut theory?

Nathan: I’ve never seen it. I feel about aliens the same way I feel about God – no one has proven that they exist, and no one has proven that they don’t. So, until someone can show me hard evidence, I can’t say one way or the other.

Particle Don: Have you ever heard of Particle Don before this interview? If so, where?

Nathan: Yeah. We met at night one of King of the Deathmatches 2015. The one that got rained out. I couldn’t attend day two because I was working a horror convention in Indianapolis the next day.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite Particle Don song?

Nathan: Bleed For A Living. I remember hearing Danny use it as his entrance music at Carnage Cup 7 and wondering who did it. When you gave me a CD at King of the Deathmatches, my question was finally answered.

Particle Don: Do you have a website other than your Facebook page?

Nathan: Yeah, my horror blog is called Son of Celluloid (sonofcelluloid1.blogspot.com). Also, check out the Son of Celluloid Facebook page for news on all of my appearances, podcasts, and those sorts of things.

Particle Don: Is there anything you’d like to shout out or plug?

Nathan: Check out the Picking Brains Podcast, my boys The Casket Creatures, and Milestone’s Southern Slaughter tournament on Smart Mark Video!

Particle Don: Awesome interview, Nathan! I enjoyed your responses tremendously. I would have never known that you interviewed Twiztid back in the day!

October 8, 2016January 17, 2019

Todd McKenzie Interview

I met Todd McKenzie along with his brother Drew at King of the Deathmatches 2015!

Todd’s Facebook page

80’s Bush: Facebook, YouTube

Chix: Facebook, Official Site

Particle Don: Hi Todd! I can’t wait to find out more about your band 80’s Bush and your resturaunt Chix. It was great seeing you at King of the Deathmatches! I always use the 80’s Bush koozie you gave me! How did the concept for 80’s Bush originate?

Todd: I remember seeing Paul Stanley on the Kiss Animalize Live video from 1984. From then on, I wanted to be a rock star. Life didn’t really pan out for me to chase that goal.

I met a friend in 2008 who shared my interest in hair metal, so we started formulating a plan to start a band. In 2014, we found 2 other members ready to make a go at it. It’s been a total blast ever since.

Particle Don: Where can we see you play live?

Todd: Currently, we are playing around Central Illinois. We have played a few summer festivals and are hoping to break into the Chicago and suburban market.

Particle Don: Are there any plans for a studio recording?

Todd: That is also a goal. I doubt we are going to try and record an entire full length LP. We do have groundwork set for a few tracks. We are excited to spend some time in a studio and get some songs out there in iTunes!

Particle Don: What are a few of your favorite 80’s bands?

Todd: Kiss, Motley Crue, and Ratt. I’m also a huge fan of Winger (they get a bad rap in the music world…great, great musicians).

Particle Don: Do you know of any “rare hair” bands from the 80’s you think people should check out?

Todd: I’m getting a chance to see one of them this weekend: Babylon AD. I also strongly suggest checking out Wildside (though technically their album came out in the 90’s) and also Spread Eagle. All great, rockin’ acts!

Particle Don: What are a few other genres of music you enjoy besides 80’s rock?

Todd: Genres? Really none. I’m a huge fan of the Stones, Led Zeppelin, and ZZ Top.

Particle Don: Are you aware of Major League Eating professional eater Joey Chesnut’s new record of 70 hot dogs eaten? How many wings do you think he could eat at Chix Restaurant?

Todd: Great question! I hope Joey Chestnut never comes to Chix! LOL. I can’t imagine how many wings that guy could down. We had a high school kid eat close to 70 wings in one sitting. I would imagine Joey could eat 200?!?

Particle Don: What would you recommend to someone who is new to Chix Restaurant?

Todd: The Boneless Wings and the Chicken Tenders are hugely popular. We also serve a Pot Roast Bowl (smashed potatoes, pot roast, carrots, and gravy all mixed together). Just plan for a nap afterwards!

If you’re ever near Streator, IL, make sure to eat at Chix!

Particle Don: How long have you been watching wrestling?

Todd: I started watching wrestling in 1978. I was 5 or 6 years old. My earliest memory is Cowboy Bob Orton piledriving Greg Gagne on the concrete floor during an episode of AWA Wrestling.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite classic-era wrestler?

Todd: Ric Flair, Dynamite Kid, and Bruiser Brody are just a few that come to mind. But, I’m a huge fan of many different styles and territories. I could write all day about the classic era.

Particle Don: Who is your current favorite wrestler?

Todd: Currently, Chris Hero. He can work any style, any opponent, any crowd. It will be a travesty if this guy doesn’t get a huge pay day from some promotion at some point. He’s too good to not be seen by the masses. In WWE, I go out of my way to watch AJ Styles matches. In NJPW, I enjoy Kenny Omega and am really starting to like Shibata.

Particle Don: When did you see your first deathmatch?

Todd: On tape it was 1993. Funk vs. Onita, exploding ring match from FMW.

My first time live was in 1997. I drove 300 miles one way to go see the first IWA King of the Deathmatches in New Albany. From then on, I’ve been hooked on the style.

Particle Don: Incredible. You witnessed the first ever American deathmatch tournament live. What was your first live wrestling show in general?

Todd: I don’t recall who or when, but I know it was an AWA show at the Richwoods High School in Peoria, Illinois.

Particle Don: Do you have any notable memories from this year’s King of the Deathmatches?

Todd: I thought this year’s show really upped the ante on the violence. It was the most violent spectacle I have seen in my 19 years of going to Deathmatch wrestling shows.

Two bumps from the Suicidal Beast in the first round are really what I remember most. The guy took an incredible amount of punishment.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite piece of wrestling merchandise?

Todd: My Wrestling Observer collection (I’ve been a subscriber since 1986) and probably my autographed “Jim Cornette and the Midnight Express” wrestling scrapbook.

Particle Don: What is your favorite sports team?

Todd: I’m a New York Mets fan since 1983. I also follow the New York Knicks and the Oklahoma Sooners.

Particle Don: Are there any other hobbies you enjoy besides rocking out with 80’s Bush and going to wrestling shows?

Todd: I have been recently working on a tabletop wrestling game to get published at some point. I also was an avid fantasy sports player, but have taken a hiatus on that as of late.

Particle Don: What a great concept. I hope your tabletop game becomes a reality! Where did you hear about Particle Don?

Todd: I saw you perform live at KOTDM 2014. I’ve been a fan of your music since and also got to speak with you at KOTDM 2015 and immediately liked you.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite Particle Don song?

Todd: Without question, Oklahoma Stampede from Volume 3. I also liked Always Makin’ Big Waves from Volume 3. I’m a fan of Bleed for a Living (Danny Havoc theme) also.

Particle Don: Who should I write a song about?

Todd: I think you should write a song about Jim Cornette and perhaps it could get used as an opening on his podcast.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite candy?

Todd: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, without a doubt.

Particle Don: What’s your favorite food?

Todd: Pizza. I could eat it 7 days a week. I owned a pizza restaurant from 2006-2009. I think I did eat it 7 days a week!!

Particle Don: What is your preferred beverage?

Todd: Pepsi from the fountain or a cold Michelob Ultra.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite 80’s TV show or cartoon?

Todd: I was never into cartoons much. My favorite TV show from the 80’s would probably be Different Strokes. As I got older, I really liked Cheers.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite 90’s TV show or cartoon?

Todd: Seinfeld. No question.

Particle Don: Do you watch Ancient Aliens? What’s your opinion of the Ancient Astronaut theory?

Todd: Never heard of it.

Particle Don: Do you watch South Park? What’s your favorite episode?

Todd: I’m not into cartoons. I’ve only seen 1 or 2 episodes.

Particle Don: What are a few of your favorite movies?

Todd: Planes, Trains and Automobiles is my favorite film. I’m also a fan of the original Batman movie from 1966.

Particle Don: Is there anything else you’d like to say?

Todd: The few times we’ve met, I really enjoyed talking with you. I look forward to seeing you at future wrestling events and I hope that you continue writing and creating music. You have a great talent.

I wish Todd the best with his band and restaurant!

October 2, 2016January 17, 2019

Drew McKenzie Interview

I met Drew McKenzie in the hotel parking lot during King of the Deathmatches 2015. Him and his brother Todd were super cool! — I met wrestling fan Drew McKenzie in the hotel parking lot during King of the Deathmatches 2015. Him and his brother Todd were super cool!

Visit Drew’s Facebook page

Particle Don: You don’t live in Cleveland, but you’re a big Indians fan. What got you interested in the Cleveland Indians?

Drew McKenzie: It’s funny because my old man is a Cubs fan, but my love for the Tribe started because of my pops. He used to have a collection of old, beat up baseball caps that he would wear when he was mowing the grass at home. As an 8 year old kid, I fell in love with that Chief Wahoo logo, and would wear the hat any chance I could.

When the Indians opened up the new ballpark in 1994, I remember watching the very first game at Jacobs Field on ESPN. From that moment on, I picked the Tribe as my squad. My entire life I have grown up rooting for the underdog, or the less popular choice. Living in Illinois during the “Jordan Era”, there wasn’t too many kids who weren’t rocking a #23 jersey. However, I was rooting for Charles Barkley and the Phoenix Suns during that time! I guess I have always gone against the grain when it comes to sports.

Particle Don: As of this writing (9/21/2016), the Cleveland Indians are 88-63. We are nearing the end of the season. Where do you see them going in the coming days and weeks?

Drew McKenzie: I can’t tell you how excited I am to see playoff baseball back in Cleveland! They were able to get that one game wild card back in 2013, but that was really just a tease. They haven’t won the division since 2007, so it’s great to see them back on top of the AL Central.

They have suffered some tough injuries this year, and nobody gave them a chance against Boston in the first round, but they swept the Sox and proved everyone wrong. Then they did it again in the ALCS against The Blue Jays.

This team has proven everyone wrong from the beginning of the year until now. I’m hopeful that they can keep it going into the World Series and shock the world!

Particle Don: Despite their 88-63 record, do you think they should have done anything differently this year?

Drew McKenzie: I really feel like they have played their cards right the entire season. They made some key off-season moves in Mike Napoli and Rajai Davis.

Napoli is having a career season, and Davis led the American League in stolen bases this year. They made a huge trade for Andrew Miller, who you could argue is the most dominant relief pitcher in all of baseball. I also loved the acquisitions of Brandon Guyer and Coco Crisp, too. They had a trade done for Jonathan Lucroy, but Lucroy used his “no trade clause” and stopped the trade from happening.

That one hurt a bit, as it would have been great to add Lucroy’s bat to the lineup. I really feel like the front office has stepped up to make sure we have the best possible team on the field.

Particle Don: How do you feel about their pitching staff?

Drew McKenzie: On paper, with no injuries, it’s one of the most dominant pitching staffs in the league. I would also argue that it’s the most dominant pitching staff that Cleveland has had in the last 50 years.

There’s Kluber, Carrasco, Salazar, Bauer, and Tomlin. Then you have Otero, Shaw, Allen, and Miller in the bullpen. You really feel like they give you a chance to win every night.

It really hurt to see Carrasco and Salazar go down with injuries at the end of the year. However, in the next few years, these guys have a chance to be one of the toughest pitching staffs we have witnessed in a long time.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite Indians team from past seasons?

Drew McKenzie: It’s hard to top the 1997 team. That offense was truly special. Growing up, I loved Manny, Thome, Alomar, Vizquel, etc. They were just so much fun to watch. I still can’t believe they were just 1 out away from winning the World Series that year!

Particle Don: When was the last time you saw them play live?

Drew McKenzie: I actually saw them play this year at US Cellular field in Chicago. That is the only plus about being a fan of the Indians in a different state. I usually get to see them play multiple games when they are in town to face the Sox, and on rare interleague occasions, against the Cubs. My goal is to see them again this year, hopefully in the ALCS or World Series!

Anytime they are in Chicago (both Cubs and Sox) I try to go up there, since it’s only about 2 hours away. Also, when they have interleague play in Milwaukee, I try and at least see a game or two up there as well.

Particle Don: How many times have you seen the Indians play live at Progressive Field? Were you ever there when it was Jacob’s Field?

Drew McKenzie: I have been to about 30 games at Progressive Field. My uncle took me to my first game back in 2002 when it was still Jacobs Field. Back in the 90’s and early 2000’s, it was extremely hard to get a ticket, since those were the glory days.

My favorite memory at “The Jake” was being there live to see them clinch the division title back in 2007.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite piece of Indians memorabilia?

Drew McKenzie: Back in 2006, a friend of mine who is originally from north east Ohio and I went up to Cleveland for an entire week. We did 7 games in 7 days. We basically hung out at the ball park from morning till midnight. It was baseball heaven!

We were up there so much that the players actually started to recognize us and would talk to us as they were coming into the games. We met CC Sabathia, who was the ace of the pitching staff at the time. He was extremely cool and talked to us for a bit. We got our photo taken with him and it’s one of my all time favorite pieces of memorabilia

Particle Don: What got you interested in wrestling?

Drew McKenzie: My Uncle and my Dad are to blame for this one! I can honestly say I don’t recall a time where wrestling wasn’t a part of my life.

My earliest memory was when my Dad took me to a WWF house show to see Andre the Giant vs. Jim Duggan. I was probably 4 or 5 years old, tops. As a young kid, wrestling was all I cared about it! Thankfully, my Pops and my Uncle were just as into it as I was.

Particle Don: Early on, who were a few of your favorite wrestlers and promotions?

Drew McKenzie: As a young kid, I was a Hogan mark. However, it didn’t take me too long to realize that Flair was the man when it came to in-ring work.

As far as promotions go, I would literally watch anything. My uncle was big into the tape trading market, so it seemed like there was always something to watch. Right around the age of 12, I found ECW, and that’s when I discovered Guerrero, Benoit, Malenko, Mysterio, etc.

From there I found “Puroresu” and fell in love with All Japan. I watched Misawa, Kobashi, Kawada, etc.

I started going to independent wrestling shows in my early teens. Although I was still watching WWF and WCW, I found myself more into the underground of pro wrestling. The internet was truly a game changer, as you could basically find anything you were looking for with a click of the mouse.

Particle Don: When did you see your first death match?

Drew McKenzie: This is a funny story!

My uncle got a copy of the first ever “King of the Death Matches” from Japan back in 1995. Like most of his tapes and DVDs, it wound up in my hands, and at 11 years old I witnessed my first ever death match!

I was lucky to have parents that didn’t censor me with music, movies, and TV. You can only imagine what an 11 year old wrestling marks’ reaction was to seeing Terry Funk and Cactus Jack wrestle in exploding barbed wire! I saw my first live death match when I was 16 years old, and it ranks in my top 5 in-person wrestling experiences. It was IWA Mid South in Morris, Illinois. The show was “Morris Mayhem” on February third, 2002.

This was about an hour away from my house, and when I found out that Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio Jr. were going to be there, I knew that I had to be as well. Of course, like most days in early February in central Illinois, it was freezing cold. We literally drove through a blizzard on the way to the show. My uncle, who we later nicknamed “The Driver”, white knuckled the entire trip and got us there safe just in time for bell.

The main event that night was Ian and Axl Rotten vs. Mean Mitch Page and Rollin’ Hard vs. Cash Flo and Corporal Robinson. I don’t even know if you would consider it a death match, but it was the first time I witnessed a man hit another man directly in the face with a thumbtack bat! From there on, I had death match sickness.

Particle Don: What are a few of the best wrestling shows you’ve been to?

Drew McKenzie: Wow, this one is tough! If I had to call out a top five, in no particular order, here is what my picks would be:

IWA Mid-South King of the Death Matches 2003
IWA Mid-South 5/29/2004
Chris Hero vs. Samoa Joe – This match was epic!
IWA Mid-South Ted Petty Invitational 2004
Samoa Joe vs. Brian Danielson vs. AJ Styles – This is my all time favorite match that I’ve attended.
Ring of Honor Samoa Joe vs. CM Punk #2 10/16/04
IWA Mid-South King of the Deathmatches 2015.
Nick Gage vs. John Wayne Murdoch – This was such an awesome match!

As you can see, IWA Mid-South has been very good to me!

Particle Don: You have seen some historic bouts in person. About how far of a drive is it for you to see a live IWA Mid-South show?

Drew McKenzie: Where they are currently running shows, it’s about a five and a half hour drive from where we live. We try to make it up to 2 or 3 of their shows every year.

Ian Rotten has provided me with the best live pro wrestling experiences. Anytime that we drive down to one of their shows, it’s always worth the trip!

Particle Don: Who are a few of your top deathmatch wrestlers?

Drew McKenzie: This one is also tough! However, let’s stick with the top 5 of all time. (In no particular order)

Ian Rotten
Necro Butcher
JC Bailey
Corporal Robinson
Nick Gage

Those five guys always delivered. I have witnessed some of the craziest, most violent wrestling of all time because of them. I do have to give a big shout to people like Matt Tremont, Bryant Woods, Masada, Devon Moore, and John Wayne Murdoch. They are keeping the death match wrestling scene alive and well.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite piece of wrestling merchandise?

Drew McKenzie: I’m not much of a “merch” guy these days. Back when I was younger I had it all. I had the shirts, figures, magazines, and everything in between. I still have an awesome Abdullah the Butcher figure that sits in front of my TV. That was one piece of merch that I couldn’t part with.

Particle Don: Do you watch current WWE? If so, who do you tune in for?

Drew McKenzie: I do watch the current product. The WWE Network was a true game changer for me. Not only do I get to enjoy the older stuff, but it gives me an opportunity to see what is going on currently. It easy to justify watching their TV and PPVs when you are only paying $9.99 a month to stay up to speed.

Although I’m not a huge fan of the “PG era,” the in ring work is the best it’s been in a long time. You can’t go wrong with guys like Rollins, Owens, and Styles on your TV every week. I feel like the work rate is getting better and better as fresh faces keep coming in. Their creative needs a little work, but for $9.99 a month, I really can’t complain.

Particle Don: What’s your favorite wrestling theme throughout history?

Drew McKenzie: I’m going to have to go with an “oldy” on this one. Sweet Stan Lane and Beautiful Bobby Eaton’s theme was, and still is my favorite entrance song of all time!

Particle Don: What types of bands do you listen to?

Drew McKenzie: I listen to just about everything except for country. I like a lot of hip-hop/rap and lots of classic rock. Some of my favorite bands/acts are Oasis, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Kiss. On the rap side, I enjoy Kendrick Lamar, J-Cole, A$AP Rocky, and Kanye West. I’m all over the spectrum when it comes to music.

Particle Don: Where did you hear about Particle Don?

Drew McKenzie: I got to see you live at King of the Death Matches 2014. I was fan from then on. Then in 2015, I really enjoyed your live performance during Randi West’s entrance at KOTDM 15!

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite Particle Don song?

Drew McKenzie: My favorite Particle Don track is “Always Makin’ Big Waves.” I can relate to the track, because I remember watching that same VHS and opening match as a kid! That Wrestlemania 6 card was one of my favorites growing up. A close second for me is “Positive Vibe Advisory.” I’m a huge fan of Devon Moore!

Particle Don: Who should Particle Don write a song about?

Drew McKenzie: I would love to see you write a track about Abdullah the Butcher or Sabu’s Uncle, the Original Sheik! Those two guys were hardcore before hardcore even existed!

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite candy?

Drew McKenzie: When it comes to chocolate, I can never go wrong with a Twix. For sweets, I’m a big fan of Sour Patch Kids.

Particle Don: What’s your favorite food?

Drew McKenzie: If I could only choose one food to eat for the rest of my life, pizza would be the choice. It might be the greatest invention in the history of the world! I’m also big into chicken wings (not the cross face type, though!)

Particle Don: Do you have a preferred beverage?

Drew McKenzie: I’m a Coke over Pepsi guy.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite 90’s TV show or cartoon?

Drew McKenzie: Seinfeld is my all time favorite. It still holds up as one of the greatest TV shows of all time.

Particle Don: Do you watch Ancient Aliens? What’s your opinion of the Ancient Astronaut theory?

Drew McKenzie: I’m not familiar with this show.

Particle Don: Do you watch South Park? Have you seen anything from the current season?

Drew McKenzie: I used to watch South Park all the time. I haven’t been paying too much attention over the last handful of seasons, but I did see the season premiere this year. It’s amazing how they have been able to stay on top for such a long time. They are truly creative geniuses!

Particle Don: Do you have a few favorite movies?

Drew McKenzie: You would think that Major League would be on my list, and although I do enjoy it, it’s not my favorite baseball movie. I really enjoyed the movie Moneyball. The Wrestler is also one of my all time favorite movies. I’m a huge fan of Jonah Hill, Seth Rogan, and James Franco. Anything those guys are in, I usually see.

Particle Don: Other than Indians and wrestling, do you have any hobbies or interests?

Drew McKenzie: I have been playing guitar since I was 18. I was self taught, so it was lot of hard work, but truly a rewarding feeling to pick something up and stick with it. I have played in a few bands in the past and also do some singing.

I really enjoy fantasy sports (football, basketball, and baseball). I also enjoy sports gambling and I spend a lot of time studying lines and trends.

Particle Don: Do you have any cats, dogs or other pets?

Drew McKenzie: I don’t currently have any pets of my own. However, my parents have an English bulldog named Roxie that I love dearly. I call her my “Matilda.”

Particle Don: Is there anything you’d like to mention before wrapping things up?

Drew McKenzie: I just want to say thanks for reaching out to me for the interview. I really enjoyed it!

August 27, 2016January 17, 2019

Deadly Dale Interview

Deadly Dale with Death Match Russell — Deadly Dale poses with David Russell at King of the Deathmatches 2016. Photo by Drew Chaos.

Twitter: @DeadlyDale

Facebook: RealDeadlyDale

Instagram: @DeadlyDale187

YouTube: DeadlyDale

Particle Don: What got you into wrestling? Did you watch growing up?

Deadly Dale: Oh yeah. I’ve watched for as far back as I can remember. I got into it by watching as a small child.

Particle Don: As a kid, who was your favorite wrestler?

Deadly Dale: The Hulkster, brother!!! In that era he was every kid’s favorite. Kinda like how John Cena is to the real young kids these days. When I became a teenager, my favorites were Razor Ramon and Shawn Michaels. I guess you could say the whole Kliq was my favorite before I even knew there was a Kliq. Scott Hall is my favorite wrestler of all time.

Particle Don: When did you decide to become a professional wrestler?

Deadly Dale: Right after high school. I really didn’t think it was something that was even an option. It just kinda happened to me. A buddy of mine from school told me he was training at a local town. I used to talk wrestling with him, and he showed me my first dirt sheet.I got the sheets through a school email address on a DOS computer.

Once he told me he was training, I instantly knew I wanted in. I started going to the shows and helping clean up. I’d also set up the ring and do other various tasks. Eventually, I was able to train. That buddy ended up being a long time tag partner and friend now known as Idolbane.

Particle Don: Where did you train for wrestling?

Deadly Dale: In the North East Arkansas region were I am from. I initially trained under a guy named Grizzly Gipson. A year or so after that I trained with “The Ebony Idol” Reggie Montgomery and Max Mayhem. They’re all some real old school dudes.

Particle Don: Did you always know you wanted to get into deathmatches, or was this something you decided later on?

Deadly Dale: I always liked doing hardcore matches and street fights. I was a local yokel for a lot of years and there wasn’t a death match scene anywhere close to my area. I started deathmatches when I finally began to travel.

Particle Don: What was your first deathmatch?

Deadly Dale: I was part of a group called known as Social Deviants for years, which consisted of me, Idolbane, Cody Only and Uncle Filthy. We would do these 6 man matches we called LSD Deathmatches. They were more like really extreme hardcore matches rather than actual deathmatches. There were never any special stipulations or anything, but for our area, it was the craziest shit anyone ever saw.

A couple of years ago, I got the opportunity to work for JCW on the road for The Gathering tour at Pop’s in Sauget, Illinois. I thought I was going to be in a battle royale, but things changed and battle royale was removed from the card. I ended up getting to main event with The Necro Butcher in a deathmatch. The experience blew my mind. It’s one of the highlights of my career.

Particle Don: What’s your favorite deathmatch weapon?

Deadly Dale: I like the bizarre shit that fans bring, things like blow-up dolls crucified on light tube crosses.

Particle Don: Do you have a least favorite deathmatch weapon?

Deadly Dale: Hot sauce sucks when it gets in your eyes.

Particle Don: Is there a story behind the name “Deadly Dale”?

Deadly Dale: Yeah, I was struggling to find a cool name that I liked. I went through a few. My very first name was Black Sunshine. Then I became Deadly D. I got the idea from Violent J’s name. It somehow just evolved into Deadly Dale.

Particle Don: What deathmatch tournaments have you been in?

Deadly Dale: My first one was for a promotion called Evolution Pro. The show was called Hardcore Harvest. That was in 2013. My next tournament was Prince of the Deathmatches, and then King of the Deathmatches.

Particle Don: How did you get into this year’s King of the Deathmatches?

Deadly Dale: I was invited to do Prince of the Deathmatches and made in to the finals, where I lost to Joseph Schwartz. After the match, the fans chanted “Put them both in!” They were referring to King, because the winner of Prince gets to go on to King. Ian Rotten came out and announced I would also be going to King of the Deathmatches. Earning the respect of the IWA Mid-South fans and crew was one of the best feelings in my life.

Click the image to purchase Prince of the Deathmatches 2016 in MP4 format.

Particle Don: You had an excellent showing this year at KOTDM. What are your thoughts on the match?

Deadly Dale: Thank you. I loved it, I just wish I would’ve advanced. At least the new king, John Wayne Murdoch, was the one who eliminated me. Hopefully I’ll be invited back next year so I can take home the crown!

Particle Don: I brought the Cotton Candy Faygo that you found in the ring at King of the Deathmatches. Unfortunately, it didn’t make the DVD footage, but you cracked open the Faygo and took a huge sip. This seemed to rejuvenate you and give you a second wind during the match. What went through your head when you saw the Faygo in the ring? Were you surprised the flavor was Cotton Candy?

Deadly Dale: Haha, yeah man, I looked down through all the blood in my eyes, and laying amongst all the plunder and shards of broken glass I could see the neon glow of the blue Faygo. I didn’t hesitate to pick it up and crack it open. I did sniff it first just in case some sick fuck poured gasoline in it or something, lol. As soon as I sniffed it I got that unmistakable whiff of cotton candy, so I preceded to chug. If it was any other soda I probably would not have picked it up, but I had to show my Faygo love!

Particle Don: What’s your favorite flavor of Faygo?

Deadly Dale: Red Pop.

Have you ever had a Redpop Slurpee?

Particle Don: Who are a few people you’d like to wrestle that you haven’t already?

Deadly Dale: Off the top of my head I’d say Sabu and X-Pac. I’m drawing a blank trying to think of matches that could realistically happen someday. There is a ton of talent out there that aren’t “big names”. I want to wrestle everybody.

Particle Don: What’s your finishing move? Why did you choose it?

Deadly Dale: I really don’t have one specific finisher. It all depends on my opponent and the situation we’re in. The power bomb is my favorite move. I use it a lot.

Particle Don: Do you have any non-wrestling hobbies? If so, what are they?

Deadly Dale: I like to relax with a good video game. I enjoy reading comics. I consider myself an artist, too. I also study a lot of conspiracy and paranormal type shit. I collect oddities. I’m very diverse and weird.

Check out Jeff Galewood’s artwork at TheCementHead.com.

Particle Don: What are a few of your favorite bands?

Deadly Dale: There’s so many. I love music and have a very broad spectrum. I’ll name a few, but there are probably hundreds that I could list. I listen to Wu-Tang Clan, Rancid, Sublime, Rage Against the Machine, ICP, Nirvana, NWA, and Hank 3. The list goes on and on.

Particle Don: What’s your favorite ICP CD?

Deadly Dale: That’s a tough one. I’ll go with The Great Milenko, because that was the first one I ever heard. I had it on a purple cassette tape.

The Great Milenko was released in 1997.

Particle Don: What Juggalo Gatherings have you been to?

Deadly Dale: Just one so far. Gathering 2016. I wrestled at the Odd Ball Brawl in the bloody royale match.

Particle Don: Do you have any funny Gathering stories you’d like to share?

Deadly Dale: Not one in particular that stands out, but the whole weekend was a blast.

Particle Don: Have you ever heard of Particle Don before this interview?

Deadly Dale: No, but I briefly got to look at your site. I read the meaning of your name and I love it.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite classic WWF entrance theme?

Deadly Dale: This might not count as classic WWF, but my favorite wrestling theme is the nWo song.

Particle Don: Do you watch WWE? If so, who are your favorite current wrestlers?

Deadly Dale: Yes I do. My favorites are The Wyatt Family.

The Wyatt Family

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite 90’s cartoon?

Deadly Dale: There are so many good ones to choose from. I’ll go with Ren and Stimpy.

Particle Don: What’s your favorite TV show?

Deadly Dale: I don’t watch much TV but I’d say The Walking Dead. I’m a big fan of the comic.

Particle Don: Do you have a favorite movie?

Deadly Dale: Not one in particular, but I really enjoy The Devil’s Rejects.

Particle Don: Where can fans buy your merch online?

Deadly Dale: You can find my merchandise at ProWrestlingTees.com/DeadlyDale. As soon as I sell a few more, I can release some new designs.

Particle Don: Is there anything you’d like to shout out or plug?

Deadly Dale: Thank you to anyone who is a Deadly Dale fan! Check out my social media pages.

Twitter: @DeadlyDale

Facebook: RealDeadlyDale

Instagram: @DeadlyDale187

YouTube: DeadlyDale

June 5, 2015January 17, 2019

David Russell Interview

David Russell with Jeff King at IWA-MS KOTDM 2016

David Russell and Nick Gage at Tournament of Death 14

The first time I met David in person was when I entered the Tournament of Death 14 parking lot. He recognized me and said what’s up before I even found a spot to park!

David is from New Jersey and has met countless wrestlers over the years. He currently runs the Deathmatch Russell Podcast.

Particle Don: What initially got you into wrestling?

David: I’d watch WWF wrestling on Saturday mornings as a kid! When I really got into it I was 9 years old.

I was in attendance at WrestleMania 5 and was five seats away from Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse Ventura doing commentary!My dad took me. He was a big fan of wrestling back in the 80’s.

I grew up with wrestling. I was always aware of it because Iron Mike Sharpe ran a wrestling school in my New Jersey hometown.

Particle Don: Who was your favorite wrestler while growing up?

David: I always liked Hulk Hogan and Jake “The Snake” Roberts. As far as bad guys, I was a big fan of Rick Rude.

David Russell and Jake "The Snake" Roberts — David Russell and Jake “The Snake” Roberts

Particle Don: What got you into deathmatch wrestling?

David: FMW. That stuff was brutal. I found it through YouTube.

Particle Don: Who is your favorite deathmatch wrestler?

David: “Mr. Danger” Mitsuhiro Matsunaga.

Particle Don: How long have you been ging to CZW shows?

David: For a while. I’ve been to a few of them so far.

Particle Don: What was your first deathmatch show?

David: This year’s (2015) Tournament of Death will be my first deathmatch show.

Particle Don: What federation would you like to see live that you haven’t already?

David: IWA Mid-South. My friend Jeremy Nickerson goes to a lot of their shows.

It would be a far drive for me though, living in New Jersey. I might be able to catch one of their shows next summer.

David with wrestling announcer and Price is Right contestant Larry Legend! — David with wrestling announcer and Price is Right contestant Larry Legend

Particle Don: What’s your dream match?

David: Dusty Rhodes vs. Nick Gage.

Particle Don: Where did you hear about Particle Don?

David: Twitter.

Particle Don: What’s your favorite Particle Don song?

David: Drake Younger’s theme.

Particle Don: Throughout wrestling history, what has been your favorite entrance theme?

David: Dusty Rhodes. He would bleed buckets back in the day.

David is lucky to have a picture with Dusty Rhodes — David has a picture with Dusty Rhodes

Particle Don: What is your favorite band?

David: Dave Matthews.

Particle Don: What’s your favorite wrestling promotion?

David: Combat Zone Wrestling. I also follow Ring of Honor.

The first time I watched Jamie Noble and CM Punk was in ROH. It’s cool to see a lot of these former indy guys in WWE these days.

I like to read a lot of wrestling news and results online. Beyond Wrestling is another good federation out of Rhode Island.

Particle Don: What are you looking forward to with deathmatch wrestling in 2015?

David: On Point Wrestling is putting on a deathmatch tournament sometime in 2015, maybe in August. I think a few guys from IWA Mid-South are going to be there.

On Point also has a show coming up in June with Nate Hatred. I think Scot Summers is coming back in July or August to fight Nick Gage.

Scot Summers is from the Texas promotion ACW, but he wrestles everywhere, including On Point Wrestling. — Scot Summers photo courtesy of ACW

My girl and I are going to camp in Delaware for a few days when we go to Tournament of Death, so that will be fun too!

Particle Don: Who is your pick to win TOD?

David: I predict that Nick Gage is going to go through everybody in TOD.

Hopefully. It could be Matt Tremont, though. He’s a tough guy and a pretty good wrestler. He’s got “it”!

I think Conor Claxton will have a breakout performance this year. He has come a long way.

Even though he’s not in the actual tournament, Devon Moore will have an outstanding showing as well.

Particle Don: Any closing comments?

David: Check out Game Changer Wrestling. They’re another great local promotion that I follow. Also, I’m friends with Chris Candito’s family!

David Russell with Rickey Shane Page — Here he is with Rickey Shane Page

Thanks for the interview. It was nice meeting you at Tournament of Death!

April 9, 2015January 11, 2019

Anthony Mossow Interview

Anthony Mossow with Nick Gage at IWA Mid-South King of the Deathmatches 2015

I briefly met long-time wrestling fan Anthony Mossow at IWA Deep South’s Carnage Cup 9 in 2013. However, it wasn’t until the next year at CZW’s Tournament of Death 13 that I found out he creates awesome-looking custom wrestling figures. While in the parking lot, he came up to the car and showed me his Jun Kasai and Jaki Numazawa figs.

Particle Don: I’d like to thank you for taking the time for this interview. Please, tell the ParticleDon.net readers a little bit about yourself. What are some of your hobbies?

Anthony: Hello, my name is Anthony Mossow. I make custom deathmatch figures as well as old school territory figures. I’m also into boxing, MMA, and lacrosse.

Particle Don: What got you into wrestling?

Anthony: My father had received free tickets to a show at the Syracuse War Memorial. The main even was B. Brian Blair vs. Swede Hanson.

FMW deathmatch legends Atsushi Onita and Megumi Kudo

Particle Don: What got you into deathmatch wrestling? Around what time did this happen?

Anthony: To be honest, I always look at the WWC as the first deathmatch promotion. The barbed wire and fire matches, were to me, the originals. Don’t get me wrong, there were no light tubes or toothpick jumbo bats, but what they were doing paved the way for today’s athletes. I’d say the late 80’s is the time when deathmatch wrestling originated.

Mitsuhiro Matsunaga custom fig, complete with packaging and alligator from the infamous alligator deathmatch

Particle Don: Who are some of your favorite deathmatch wrestlers, and why?

Anthony: I have so many favorites of the deathmatch style. I’m afraid that if I start naming them, I would leave out too many. I’ll say anyone that’s willing to put their body on the line for us is my favorite. I’d like to thank them for doing so.

Particle Don: You create highly-detailed custom action figures for independent wrestlers. First off, I’d like to personally thank you for doing this. I understand it takes many hours and lots of work to make just one custom figure.

Anthony: Yes, as we all know, I enjoy making deathmatch figures. I’d like to thank all of you that like them, and even the ones that don’t! Hahahahaha.

Particle Don: Can you take us through your process of creation? Obviously, you start off with some sort of store-bought figure, and customize from there. How do you choose the right figure for a given wrestler?

Anthony: It’s funny, sometimes I can look at a head of a given figure and think “Yeah, if I carve the hair, sand it down and work with it, that’s the one…”

See, it’s funny. When I make these figures, you’re kind of getting a part of me. Whether it’s a good day or a bad day, you’re getting a part of my emotions with each creation.

I can’t say I have too many favorites, because they’re all like my kids. I mean, all the time I put into them…waking up in the middle of the night to fix them, or whatever the case may be…if you get a custom figure from me, you’re not just getting a custom, you’re getting a part of my emotions as well.

Kiki Rose custom figure complete with a dollar bill stapled to her face from Queen of the Deathmatches 2014

Particle Don: Do you use a certain type of paint? Are there different types of paint for different situations?

Anthony: I use all types of paint, what ever I can find. The figures are not meant to look “perfect”. They are like deathmatch wrestling…gritty, cutting edge, and off the wall. Just like the wrestlers themselves.

Particle Don: Do you find it’s easier to customize certain brands of figures? For example, are Jakks figures easier to customize than Mattel?

Anthony: I like Jakks. I don’t like Mattel. I haven’t worked with Hasbro figures too much, either. I made a Hasbro Bill Alfonzo…it was a bit cartoonish.

Particle Don: I bet you have an impressive figure collection. How many pieces are in it? What are a few of your precious gems?

Anthony: I have well over a thousand figures. I think I have over 300 just in customs. As far as gems? My Onita, Brody, Abdullah the Butcher, and Terry Funk. I have so many at my house. Some of my customs I consider gems, as well.

Particle Don: Other than figures, what are a few pieces of wrestling merchandise or memorabilia you’d like to share?

Anthony: If I was home, it would be much easier to send pics. Because of my job, I’m only home like 20 days out of the year. I have stuff like Jun Kasai’s goggles, Sabu’s pants from the ECW Terry Funk no rope barbed-wire match, Abdullah the Butcher’s boots, and some stuff from the Headhunters. On my Facebook page you can see quite a few pics with me and the wrestlers, and my figures as well.

Particle Don: What was the first deathmatch tournament you saw on film? How did you come across the footage?

Anthony: RF Video made it possible for my deathmatch video collection to come to fruition. IWA Japan and the Ian Rotten stuff was my first. Those years are a bit fuzzy for me from partying pretty hard, hahahahaha.

Anthony recreated each of the 8 combatants in the original 1995 IWA Japan King of the Deathmatches tournament - complete with Cactus Jack's autograph — Anthony recreated each of the 8 combatants in the original 1995 IWA Japan King of the Deathmatches tournament – complete with Cactus Jack’s autograph

Tiger Jeet Singh signed the collection as well!

Particle Don: What deathmatch shows have you seen live?

Anthony: I’ve been to IWA Mid-South’s King and Queen of the Deathmatches and CZW’s Tournament of Death. I always enjoy when Hyde brings over the Japanese fellas. I’ve also been to an IWA Deep South Carnage Cup.

Particle Don: Where did you find out about Particle Don?

Anthony: I remember meeting you at CZW’s Tournament of Death in 2014. We talked about figures, and I showed you a few of my customs. You hit me up with a CD.

John Moxley (Now known as Dean Ambrose in WWE)

Particle Don: What are a few of your favorite Particle Don songs?

Anthony: We love the Havoc jam! My son digs it as well. He always plays it on YouTube, hahahaha. I like the Kabuki Quantum Fighter song too (Binary Code mix, Scott O’ Conner mix). I love old school video games. Sometimes I still live in a time warp.

Particle Don: What wrestler would you like to hear Particle Don write words for?

Anthony: I think you should do a Josh Crane or a Bryant Woods jam. Hell, how about a Mitch Page song?

Particle Don: What would be your dream match?

Anthony: Jun Kasai vs. Jd Horror, Bryant Woods vs. Danny Havoc and Masada vs. Atsushi Onita.

"The Crazy Monkey" Jun Kasai — “The Crazy Monkey” Jun Kasai

Particle Don: What are some of your favorite bands?

Anthony: Das EFX, The Doors, Van Halen, Pantera, Type O Negative, and a lot of 80’s stuff.

Particle Don: What are you looking forward to with deathmatch wrestling in 2015? Do you plan on attending any shows?

Anthony: I will definitely be at King of the Deathmatches. I’ll also be at Queen of the Deathmatches. Ian is a genius for this concept. I mean, bitches and blood? Hahahaha. Also, Nick Gage is a free man!

Particle Don: Anything else you’d like to say to the ParticleDon.net readers?

Anthony: Support deathmatch wrestling, and go to all of the shows you can. Just my opinion! Go to Tournament of Death and support those guys, they always put on one hell of a show.

I appreciate you giving me the chance to tell all and speak about my hobbies! To everybody, please support deathmatch wrestling, period. It was great to be interviewed. Thank you and God bless.

Particle Don: One of the things I like most about Anthony’s customs is the references to certain matches, gimmicks and time periods. For example, the JC Bailey figure has the syringe in his foot from the Thumbtack Jack match. He’s also holding a thumbtack bat, JC’s favorite weapon. Piper’s figure has the beer bottle that he broke over his head in Portland. Kiki Rose has a dollar bill stapled to her face, and her outfit is impressively detailed. John Moxley is wearing his Tournament of Death attire, complete with Masada’s skewers in his head.

Roddy Piper with Anthony Mossow's figure in-hand — Roddy Piper with Anthony Mossow’s figure in-hand

The Dynamite Kid figure is wearing attire from his territory days. The IWA-Japan King of the Deathmatch 1995 set is incredibly detailed, down to the trophy in Cactus Jack’s hand. Rory Mondo is wearing the gear and facepaint from his final match. Trent Acid has the robe from his JCW “Altar Boy” gimmick. The John Rare figure has a box cutter in his hand. Mitsuhiro Matsunaga has a barbed-wire halo, and the alligator from his Alligator Deathmatch with Shadow WX in 1998.