CAM!!ikaze From Fan to CWE Title

Today on Bring Back The Porch, CAM!!ikaze shares his inspiring journey from backyard wrestling to becoming the CWE champion, highlighting the importance of storytelling, training, and passion in professional wrestling.Kickstarter Link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/739735965/cwe-old-school-wrestling-feature-documentary?ref=discover_saved_projects&category_id=30Chapters00:00 Introduction and CAM!!ikaze's background01:58 Childhood memories and early influences in wrestling03:56 Starting backyard wrestling and building a ring07:59 Transition to professional training and early matches14:08 Finding your style and developing your character20:00 Winning the CWE championship and representing hometown25:10 Memorable matches and wrestling legends30:11 The art of promo and storytelling in wrestling34:56 Upcoming tours, projects, and community supportCurtis kicks off this episode by inviting listeners to engage with *Bring Back the Porch*, emphasizing the diverse 'flavours' of wrestling that cater to everyone’s tastes.CAM!!ikaze, a local wrestler from Medicine Hat, shares his early memories of wrestling. He recalls being captivated by the spectacle of *WrestleMania III*, where Hulk Hogan faced off against Andre the Giant. “I was just blown away, didn’t know who was gonna win or lose,” he reminisces. This love for wrestling ignited at a young age, as he watched his dad’s VHS tapes and became a self-proclaimed Hulkamaniac.  CAM!!ikaze recalls how he was initially traumatized by wrestling moments, particularly those involving Jake the Snake Roberts. CAM!!ikaze explains, reflecting on how he moved from mere entertainment to understanding the art of wrestling. It wasn’t until the late '90s, during the attitude era, that he found his footing again, inspired by legends like Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock. A pivotal moment was meeting a friend, Matt, who aspired to be a wrestler, which sparked CAM!!ikaze’s journey into the sport.At just 12 years old, CAM!!ikaze began his training in backyard wrestling, dubbing it *Crazy Mofo Wrestling*. “We practiced moves on a dummy and then on each other,” he says, laughing about the makeshift ring they created with garden hoses and steel posts. His backyard shows grew in attendance, culminating in 173 people showing up for his last event in 2004, which led to a noise complaint from the cops. “I had a golden childhood,” he reflects, grateful for the experiences that shaped him.Despite needing to be 18 to officially train, CAM!!ikaze was determined. He lied about his age and began his professional journey with Monster Pro Wrestling in Edmonton. “I hopped on a Greyhound bus with $500,” he shares, highlighting the leap of faith he took. His first match at 17 was a significant milestone, and he quickly realized the need for professional training. “I was like a sponge,” he says of his time under the tutelage of Chi Chi Cruz, absorbing everything he could.CAM!!ikaze debuted in September 2005, adopting the ring name that would define his career. Initially wrestling with a mask, he had to adapt to the challenges it presented. “I thought I had terrible cardio, but it was because I was being suffocated,” he laughs, emphasizing the learning curve he faced. His journey showcases the passion and determination that drives professional wrestlers, revealing the behind-the-scenes stories that fans often overlook.Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch PodcastSupport the show