Wremix: Night Two at First Ave Was Pure Energy and Chaos

Photojournalist: Sophia Bronwyn

Saturday night marked my first ever wrestling show, and honestly, I walked into First Avenue having no idea what to expect. As I stepped inside, I took in the crowd, fans in band tees, wrestling merch, and casual outfits with playful touches here and there. Some even wore tinfoil hats. It felt surreal, confusing, and exciting all at once, like I’d stumbled into a world with its own rules that I was going to learn about in real time. 

By the time Wremix night two got underway, it didn’t take long to get swept up in the energy of the room. What started as curiosity quickly turned into cheering along with the crowd, completely locked in on every big move, dramatic moment, and over-the-top character beat as match after match pulled everyone in. 

One of the most memorable moments of the night came from ThunderFrog, who used what looked like a massive Mjölnir-style hammer to take down his opponents, instantly becoming one of those characters you don’t forget. Another match, this one between Jinn Hallows and Rudy Hell, had serious enemies-to-lovers energy, with the crowd slowly catching on and eventually chanting for the wrestlers to kiss, completely losing it in the process.

Between matches, there was always something happening, a rotating mix of performances that kept the night lively and unpredictable. Burlesque dancers Phoenix De La Rosa and Emerald Eve brought two very different but equally captivating styles to the stage. Phoenix De La Rosa delivered a more traditional burlesque performance, while Emerald Eve took a more experimental approach with a scientist-inspired routine that added humor and theatrical flair. 

Rounding out the interludes were The Gully Boys, a local punk rock all-female band whose raw sound and attitude fit seamlessly into the controlled chaos of the night, further blurring the line between wrestling show and full-scale variety event.

At the center of it all was Arik Cannon, both a wrestler and the owner/operator of F1rst Wrestling. His presence underscored the heart of the event: a labor of love built on creativity, athleticism, and community. Yes, wrestling may be choreographed or “fake” in a technical sense, but watching it live makes it impossible to deny the talent, skill, and physical endurance required. 

I was in awe every time there was a jump from the corner of the ring or someone being lifted into the air with such ease. Seeing this level of performance on night two made it even more impressive, bodies clearly pushed to their limits, yet no one letting the tiredness or aches show.

F1rst Wrestling is undeniably cheesy at times, but that cheesiness is part of its charm. It knows exactly what it is and fully commits, inviting the audience to do the same. By the end of the night, I was cheering right along with everyone else and already looking forward to the next show. For a first time wrestling show, Wremix at First Ave was an unforgettable introduction: loud, weird, theatrical, and completely electric.