Professional wrestling in the Scranton, PA area had fallen into a lull before Smash Master Wrasslin’ burst onto the scene. For years, wrestling fans in the region had to settle for sporadic shows like High Tension Wrestling at the Steamtown Mall or student showcases at the Backbreakers Training Center. Before the pandemic, Grand Slam Wrestling (GSW) offered a consistent and loyal following, but the shutdowns halted their momentum.
Enter Smash Master Wrasslin’.
The Birth of Smash Master Wrasslin’
Originally planned as a one-off event at The Sanctuary in Hazleton, PA, Smash Master Wrasslin’ faced delays due to COVID-19. However, a silver lining emerged when the Throop Civic Center became available. This opportunity provided a perfect home for Smash Master, complete with the production capabilities of the HTW Network and the wrestling ring from the Backbreakers Academy.
Smash Master didn’t just bring wrestling back to the area; it became a platform for local talent to grow. Rising stars like Squid Sterling and Ricky Pryce found a place to hone their craft, while veterans like Kit Raff, Adena Steele, and the Diamond City War Machines (Brad DeMaio and Eric Pinhat) provided leadership and mentorship.
On July 10, 2022, Smash Master Wrasslin’ officially debuted, creating a vibrant, party-like atmosphere for its fans. In the main event, Scranton’s hometown hero Adena Steele defeated Laura Lovelace from the 880 Wrestling collective. That first event set the tone for what would become a growing legacy.
The HTW Network Championship
Smash Master Wrasslin’ has also played a vital role in shaping the legacy of the HTW Network Championship. A majority of the title matches have taken place at Smash Master events, including one of the most historic moments in the championship’s history. At Smash Master, Philly Mike Swanson ended Mike Skyros’ incredible 715-day reign as champion, cementing the title’s prestige and Smash Master’s importance in the network.
A Platform for Talent and Innovation
As the roster grew, Smash Master became a proving ground for wrestlers to rise through the ranks. The Electric City Mayhem—featuring Squid Sterling, Damon Dante, Alexander Bateman, and Zack Xander—epitomizes this rise. Starting as ring crew, these young wrestlers earned their spots at the top of the card through hard work and dedication. They even launched their own no-ring event, Moshpit Mayhem, under the Smash Master banner.
The promotion’s philosophy prioritizes effort and talent over the traditional “paying your dues” mentality. This commitment to growth has attracted top-tier talent and created marquee moments, including appearances by Masha Slamovich, Ace Austin, Sonny Kiss, Lance Anoai, Effy, Chris Bey, Jamie Senegal, and more. These guest stars elevate the roster while giving fans unforgettable experiences.
Factions and Drama: The Rise of The Think Tank
One of the most compelling storylines in Smash Master’s history is the emergence of The Think Tank. This faction, a subsidiary of the notorious Wilde LLC, represents tyranny across the entire HTW Network. Composed of Luca Mancini, MIT, and Jason Furious, The Think Tank has become a dominant force in Smash Master, further intertwining the promotion’s narratives with the larger HTW Network.
570 Wrestling Experience: The Content Creators
Smash Master Wrasslin’ isn’t just building a wrestling promotion; it’s cultivating a community. A prime example of this is the partnership with the 570 Wrestling Experience. This brand creates original content such as podcasts, vlogs, and videography, showcasing the personalities and stories of the local wrestling scene. The relationship between Smash Master and 570 Wrestling Experience has been mutually beneficial, helping both brands grow while giving fans unique insights and entertainment.
Beyond the Ring: Hardcore Matches and Deathmatches
Smash Master Wrasslin’ continues to push boundaries, incorporating intense and hardcore elements into its shows. Whether it’s the ambulance match where Face & Boujii took on Masty & Hawthorn or the invasion of MV Young and the 880 Wrestling collective at the Yinz Y’all Brawl, the promotion knows how to deliver high-stakes drama.
Smash Master has also ventured into deathmatch wrestling through its partnership with WHW to create The Smash Yard. The first Smash Yard event at The Shelter in Howell, NJ, was a bloody success, with plans for more events in 2025.
Collaboration Through the HTW Network
A founding partner of the HTW Network, Smash Master Wrasslin’ exemplifies the spirit of collaboration. By pooling resources and fostering a cooperative environment, the network has expanded to include promotions like Combat Fights Unlimited (CFU), Labor of Love, and Pro Wrestling Explosion. Smash Master even provided space for GSW’s post-pandemic return, further proving its commitment to supporting the wrestling community.
Looking Ahead
As 2024 comes to a close, Smash Master Wrasslin’ stands as a pillar of the Northeast PA wrestling scene. From hosting championship matches and cultivating homegrown talent to building alliances and creating unforgettable moments, Smash Master continues to redefine what a wrestling promotion can be.
Whether you’re a fan, a wrestler, or part of the creative team, Smash Master Wrasslin’ is more than a promotion—it’s a family.
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Smash Master Wrasslin’: Building a community, creating stars, and leaving an indelible mark on the wrestling world.