It's that time of year again - National Pro Wrestling Day is here!
The inaugural event last year was a fun day showcasing the range of styles represented by 21st century independent wrestling, and the early line-up for this year's show looks like it will do the same. You can see some clips form the Wrestling is... YouTube page below, or the entire day-long affair is available for purchase at Smart Mark Video.
I don't think I'm going to be able to make it this year, but I can tell you that last year's show was not only a wacky wrestling show...it was also a cool chance to meet-up with some fellow East Coast Cagesiders (what up, jolie, Rev (& brothers of Rev) and TMG?)
This year's edition seems to be less affiliated with promotions like Ring of Honor or CZW and more based around independent performers themselves. Here's the press release, which also details this year's philanthropic partner for the free show in Easton, Pennsylvania:
National Pro Wrestling Day is an action-packed event offered to the public free of charge on February 1st, 2014, starting at 1 p.m., at The Palmer Center in Easton, PA. This year's show features a variety of talent, including Colt Cabana, Green Ant, Hallowicked, Heidi Lovelace, The Estonian Thunderfrog and former WWE diva Maria Kanellis.
The men and women of NPWD believe in the positive power of pro-wrestling, and we're asking for help in proving it to the world. On National Pro Wrestling Day, we are going to raise money for the Against Malaria Foundation, and together, with the support of wrestling fans worldwide, we will save lives. Renowned for their standout transparency and accountability, the Against Malaria Foundation is one of less than a dozen charitable organizations to be recommended by GiveWell.org, by Peter Singer's The Life You Can Save, and by the site Giving What We Can. That means the money donated goes directly to the people that desperately need our help.
Malaria is among the leading causes of child deaths in Africa. In fact, 3,000 children die every day from Malaria. Yes, every single day. The Against Malaria Foundation provides long-lasting insecticide treated nets to protect against malaria in developing countries. Each net costs about $5.00 US, and the nets are tested to work effectively for up to five years. With our fundraising goal of $5,000.00 US, we aim to play a role in saving 1,000 lives through our combined efforts on National Pro Wrestling Day.
You can make a cash donation the day of the event, or you can make an online donation at any time through February 2nd, 2014 directly through the Against Malaria Foundation page for NPWD 2014. Either way, 100% of the donated funds will go directly to those in need.
Information about the Against Malaria Foundation can be found on their website, and the donations can be made here.
We know not everyone can afford to give. That's why we're making the entire event free to the public. Donations are entirely optional. You don't have to spend a dollar to enjoy the action on National Pro Wrestling Day. But if you can help, please do.
For updates to the card and schedule, you can follow NPWD on Twitter.
Anybody gonna head to The Palmer Center for this year's show?