A Celebration of Excellence and Innovation in Independent Wrestling
The High Tension Wrestling (HTW) Network has become a shining example of what the independent wrestling scene can achieve through collaboration, passion, and a shared vision. Spanning multiple promotions such as High Tension Wrestling, Smash Master Wrasslin’, Labor of Love, Pro Wrestling Explosion, Combat Fights Unlimited, and The WHW Smash Yard, the HTW Network is a creative tapestry of professional wrestling genres and styles. It’s a space where talent, both seasoned and emerging, can showcase their artistry and push boundaries like never before.
What is the HTW Network?
For many, the HTW Network is more than just a collection of wrestling promotions—it is a movement. Described as a “living anthology of dreams” by one observer, a “family” by another, and a “brotherhood of like-minded yet diverse promoters” by a third, the Network has unified promoters, talent, and fans in a space that thrives on collaboration rather than competition.
The HTW Network mirrors the world of music, offering a style for everyone. It replaces the toxicity often found in independent wrestling with a shared passion for storytelling and performance art. This ethos has allowed the Network to grow, not just as a collection of promotions but as a vibrant and supportive community.
Top Matches and Performers of 2024
(Note: These results reflect an amalgamation of data gathered from multiple members and observers of HTW Network products. While many more talents deserve recognition, this summary is based solely on the collected feedback from our observers.)
This year has delivered incredible matches across the HTW Network, reinforcing its reputation as a beacon for creativity and talent.
Memorable Matches and Moments:
• Sonny Defarge vs. Mike Skyros (C) (HTW): A technical masterclass that deserved an audience far larger than the venue could hold. Sonny Defarge, known primarily for his tag team work, has established himself as a major threat in both singles and tag competition within HTW.
• Anthraxx vs. JB Anderson (WHW): A standout match on the WHW Smash Yard card, this bout exemplified the passion and creativity of hardcore and deathmatch wrestling. Both competitors are highly anticipated talents for 2025.
(You can view this match and the entire WHW Smash Yard event for just $5 at https://www.htwnetwork.com/whw )
• Mike Skyros vs Philly Mike Swanson (C) (WrestlePit): After winning the HTW Network Championship earlier in the week, Philly Mike’s victory over Skyros at WrestlePit marked a pivotal shift for both the title and the company.
• Speedball Mike Bailey vs. Paul London (Labor of Love): This WrestleMania-week spectacle was a delightful blend of athleticism and crowd engagement, doubling as a memorable sing-along performance.
(Original professional footage can be found on IWTV)
• Riley Krowe vs. Adena Steele (Smash Master Wrasslin’): Riley Krowe’s victory over the dominant Adena Steele cemented her status as the new queen of Smash.
• Allison Kay vs. Jordan Blade (CFU): A collision of two CFU originals, this match showcased Blade’s ruthless aggression against Kay’s experience as a force in the NWA and independent scenes.
Standouts of 2024:
• Philly Mike Swanson: HTW Network Champion and breakout star.
• J Boujii: A cornerstone of Smash Master Wrasslin’.
• CC Boost: A fan favorite renowned for chaotic, risk-taking performances.
• Luca Mancini: Overcame a devastating ankle injury to dominate upon his return.
Tag Team Scene
The HTW Network tag team division delivered unforgettable moments this year.
• Kingsglaive (Travis Huckabee & Max Zero): As HTW’s #BigWood Tag Team Champions, Huckabee and Zero have been with High Tension Wrestling since its inception. Together, they plan to dominate the scene with the #BigWood Championships!
• The Breakdown (Alexander Bateman & Damon Dante): Smash Master Wrasslin’ Tag Team Champions, The Breakdown wear the Smash brand with pride by not only competing their but also by hosting their brutal no-ring events under the Smash Master banner.
Tag Team Challengers to Watch in 2025:
• The Fourth Line
• South Street Survivors
• Riot Act
Up-and-Coming Talents to Watch in 2025
The HTW Network has always been a platform for rising stars, and 2025 promises even more breakthroughs.
• Sal Mistretta: 2024’s Rookie of the Year, with standout performances in High Tension Wrestling, New Era Pro Wrestling, Labor Of Love, World Wide Dojo's Captured Lightning, and Enjoy Wrestling.
• Don Freeze: A surprise standout at HTW’s Boiling Point tapings, securing bookings across multiple promotions.
• Juni Underwood: A rising star, debuting a new tag team, Smash & Burn, with fellow Smash Master Standout Ricky Pryce.
• Dylan Mesh: A top-tier talent and key member of Wilde LLC, proving his potential and assisting his faction.
• Journey Burke: A force to be reckoned with, Journey is as brilliant in the courtroom as she is in the ring.
Champions of the HTW Network
The champions of 2024 have set a high standard:
• Philly Mike Swanson (HTW Network Champion)
• Cheeseburger (CityWide Champion)
• Jordan Blade (CFU Champion)
• Travis Huckabee & Max Zero (HTW Tag Team Champions)
• DanjerHawk (PWE Champion)
• Alexander Bateman & Damon Dante (Smash Tag Team Champions)
• Robb Rockham (Camp Leapfrog/HTW Rey de Ranas Champion)
The Rise of Wilde LLC
No review of 2024 would be complete without discussing Wilde LLC. Led by the cunning Dr. Ethan Wilde, this faction has redefined dominance with top talents like Dylan Mesh, Luca Mancini, Journey Burke, Mr. Intellectual Tavius, Jason Furious, Bryan Ace, and mostly recently Anthony Blackwell Jr.
Their hostile takeover of High Tension Wrestling solidified their status as the most dangerous faction in the Network, and rumors suggest even greater plans for 2025.
Honoring Mike Skyros: The First HTW Network Champion
No reflection on the HTW Network’s success would be complete without honoring the legacy of The Moonlight Son Mike Skyros. As the inaugural HTW Network Champion, Skyros held the title with unmatched pride and determination, elevating it to a symbol of excellence over an incredible 715-day reign.
Skyros faced a who’s who of wrestling talent during his tenure, including epic clashes against names like Sonny Defarge, “Hot Sauce” Tracey Williams, Lucky 13, and finally Philly Mike Swanson. Each match showcased his versatility, resilience, and ability to adapt to any opponent’s style, cementing his reputation as one of the most reliable and compelling champions in independent wrestling.
Through his reign, Skyros brought prestige and honor to the HTW Network Championship, making it one of the most coveted prizes across all the Network promotions. His contributions laid the foundation for the championship’s enduring significance and set a standard of excellence that future champions will strive to match.
Now, as the belt moves into a new chapter, one question remains: What’s next for The Moonlight Son? Whether it’s chasing new titles, carving out new legacies, or surprising fans with the unexpected, one thing is certain—Mike Skyros’s story is far from over.
Community and Partnerships
The HTW Network has also forged new friendships with sponsors like Vinnie’s Barbershop and Ruda Entertainment. Vinnie provided haircuts at events throughout 2024, while Joel Ruda supported WHW Smash Yard and took on the commission for new HTW championship belts debuting in 2025.
Expanding the HTW Network Beyond the Ring
The HTW Network is more than just a hub for wrestling—it’s a creative ecosystem that embraces artistic ventures, storytelling, and community-building. Alongside the thrilling in-ring action, the Network partners with and promotes podcasts, music, and other content that aligns with its mission of innovation and inclusivity.
Looking ahead to 2025, the HTW Network is poised for significant growth in its content offerings. Plans include the launch of an official HTW Network Podcast, providing fans with exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and in-depth discussions about the art of professional wrestling. Additionally, an “on-the-road” vlog series will showcase the Network’s events, road trips, and the camaraderie that defines its community.
A major part of this expansion is the consistent and valued contributions of Anthony Blackwell Jr. (ABJ), whose content continues to highlight the incredible talent and personalities within the HTW Network. ABJ’s work serves as a bridge between the wrestling world and its fans, offering a deeper look at the stories and people that make this industry special.
Moreover, 2025 will see the HTW Network focus on giving back. Partnering with ABJ, the Network plans to host a series of LGBTQIA+ fundraising events throughout the year, building a stronger, more inclusive community both inside and outside the wrestling world.
With these creative endeavors, the HTW Network is cementing its place as a force for storytelling, artistry, and positive change—both in the ring and beyond.
Looking Ahead
As 2025 approaches, the HTW Network continues to be a beacon of innovation and excellence in independent wrestling. With its champions leading the way, factions like Wilde LLC dominating the narrative, and a new wave of talent rising, the future has never been brighter.
The HTW Network is not just a collection of promotions—it’s a movement. Here’s to another year of breaking barriers, telling stories, and creating unforgettable memories.
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