Alf Nelson's blog

I just got back home from the flicks, where I saw ‘The Iron Claw’. This film provides a fascinating and jaw-dropping (or should I say elbow-dropping?) insight into the history of the Von Erich wrestling dynasty. It is a bleak but absorbing account of the tragedies that befell this family.

The performances from the whole cast are first class. As some people still sneer at the concept of pro wrestling, I find it refreshing when well-known actors, like Zac Efron (who appears in the film) and Mickey Rourke, clearly put a lot of effort into their wrestling roles, taking them very seriously. Also, some people may sneer that pro wrestling is all choreographed, but the above film perfectly highlights just how dangerous and brutal the world of pro wrestling can be.

For me, the star of this film is Holt McCallany, who plays Fritz Von Erich, famed for the eponymous (and feared) wrestling hold. The film portrays Fritz as the intimidating, controlling and dominant father, by whom his four sons (also famous wrestlers) were often intimidated. One 'flashback' scene shows Fritz in a wrestling bout, and the actor was so convincing that I forgot that I was actually watching a film (Holt looks great in trunks and boots, and is in great shape, despite being in his late 50s).

If you are planning to watch this film at a cinema, I would recommend a ‘ringside’ seat; I sat near the screen, which made me feel as if I was in a wrestling ring.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt21064584/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_8_nm_0_q_the%2520iron

I have noticed that Wristlock (Derek) has been rather quiet of late. I see that his account has either been deleted or suspended. He's one of the most prominent members of MF and a great lover of Brit Pro (WoS). I last exchanged messages with him about a year ago, and he seemed fine to me. Does anyone know what happened to him, please?

Hi. If you love the old US pro wrestling, I’d recommend the ‘Wrestling Playlists’ YouTube channel, which is quite new and has been uploading lots of old bouts from the US lately:

https://youtube.com/@WrestlingPlaylistsNewsletter?si=hTxpxNwyJfpzwzOr

This YouTube channel also runs a newsletter, which has lots of information about the old pro wrestling. If you would like to subscribe, go to https://wrestlingplaylists.substack.com/welcome

One of the best things about MF is the ‘Meetups’ section; this can be helpful especially when you fancy a bout at the last minute. But in my opinion, a small percentage of MF members are only into WoS roleplay, which is basically dressing up in pro gear and applying holds or acting out wrestling fantasies in a safe way. The following group specialises in WoS roleplay, so if you’re looking for a bout, especially at the last minute, you can advertise your match requests through this group. Anyone is welcome to join 😊

https://www.meetfighters.com/groups/WoS_Roleplay

Hi, all. I thought I should mention that I have set up an interest group for fans of WoS roleplay:

https://www.meetfighters.com/groups/WoS_Roleplay

I do hope that you will join this Group, and if you know anyone who might be interested please spread the word. Thank you!