It Was Almost Real: The Pro Wrestling History Podcast

Episode 126 - Wasem vs. Carroll

In this episode, I discuss a contest between Oscar Wasem and Joe Caroll, who is better known as J.C. Marsh or Ollie Marsh, in 1907.

Episode 125 - Boxer vs. Wrestler

In this episode, I discuss Tom Sharkey, a professional boxer and part-time wrestler, wrestling "Sailor" Tom Piening, a professional wrestler in February 1904. I also review The Smashing Machine starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as Mark Kerr.

Episode 124 - Dufur and Ross

In this episode, I discuss a mixed styles bout betweeen Henry Moses Dufur and Duncan C. Ross. I catch up on WWE Raw and review a Championship Wrestling from Florida show in 1982.

Episode 123 - Spot Show Town

In this episode, we discuss the history of professional wrestling in the city of Cape Girardeau, Missouri.

Episode 122 - Memphis Heat

In this episode, I discuss the early career of Reggie Siki, the first nationally known African-American wrestler. I also review the documentary Memphis Heat.

Episode 121 - Riley in the U.S.

In this episode, I discuss Billy Riley, founder of Wigan's Snake Pit, wrestling in the United States during 1922 and 1923. I look at Jack Claybourne's 1940 five month tour of Massachusetts. I also review WWE Unreal Season 2 on Netflix.

Episode 120 - True Crime

In this episode, I look at two murders involving wrestlers or related to wrestling.

Episode 119 - Harry Hill

In this episode, I discuss Harry Hill, New York sporting man and collar-and-elbow professional wrestler, who played a large role in professional wrestling and prizefighting in the 1860s and 1870s.

Episode 118 - Jiu Jitsu vs. Wrestling

In this episode, I discuss a mixed styles contest between Marin Plestina and Taro Miyake in 1920.

Episode 117 - The Champ is Here

In this episode, I discuss Stanislaus Zbyszko "winning" his first world title in May 1921. I also review a Southeastern Championship card from 1984.