Portage la Prairie’s own Sam Davidson, known to wrestling fans as the fiery "Sammy Peppers," is body-slamming excitement back into his hometown.
On Thursday, August 14th, Davidson teams up with WWE superstar Brian Kendrick at the Army Navy Air Force Unit #13 for a major Canadian Wrestling's Elite (CWE) event. This homecoming marks a full-circle moment for the local wrestler and promises high-flying action for the community.
Davidson debuted in Portage nearly seven years ago. Returning now, he’s eager to showcase his growth.
"It's just nice that the timing and everything's working out well that we can come back again," Davidson shares, radiating enthusiasm. "I really look forward to showing, with some confidence, that I'm a lot better in the ring than I was 6 1/2, seven years ago. I'm very, very excited to bring some good family entertainment, some good wrestling back to Portage la Prairie again."
Tagging with a childhood hero
The spotlight intensifies as Davidson partners with Brian Kendrick, a name etched in wrestling history.
For Davidson, it’s a dream realized.
"I started watching professional wrestling in 2005, and I thought Brian Kendrick was one of the guys that really was an impressive cruiserweight," he recalls.
The chance to team up with an idol two decades later is surreal.
"To go from seeing him on a big screen TV to teaming up with him locally in Portage la Prairie is an honour and a privilege."
Their opponents? The formidable duo of "Bad Boy" Anderson Tyson Moore and Ronnie Attitude, whom Davidson calls "a couple of devilish guys."
Passion amplified in a poignant moment
This event resonates deeply with fans following the recent passing of wrestling icon Hulk Hogan.
Davidson’s passion mirrors the renewed appreciation many locals feel for wrestling’s drama and athleticism.
Sharing his thoughts, he reflects that, "It's unfortunate to lose someone who was one of the key pieces of the mainstream explosion of professional wrestling. It's hard to say how big this industry would be or if it would have ever reached the levels it has today without the foundational success that he generated."
The timing adds a layer of nostalgia and celebration for the sport’s enduring spirit right in Portage.
More than just main event mayhem
The stacked card features multiple title bouts:
- CWE Champion "Chizzled" Chad Daniels defends against Scott Ripley.
- Hardcore Champion "The Pissed Off Pitbull" Robby Royce battles Edward Wild III.
- Grudge matches pit "Crude Oil" Cody Mac against "Hotshot" Danny Duggan.
- Mentallo Cam!!kaze will also take on Cannon Corporation in another exciting tag team matchup.
Local radio personality Ryan Simpson may even lend his pipes as a guest ring announcer, adding a bit of hometown flair.
Davidson emphasizes the family-friendly appeal, noting, "Kids especially really love the wrestling. It's a really good, and very different type of evening. I highly encourage it, even if you're not someone who's familiar with the wrestling product, just come out and check it out for the first time."
The bell rings at 7:00 PM on August 14th at the Army Navy Air Force Unit #13 (25 3 St. NE).
For ticket details and availability, fans are encouraged to contact the Army Navy Unit #13 directly via their Facebook page.
Sammy Peppers and Brian Kendrick are ready to ignite Portage – don’t miss the showdown!
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