Here at TWM, we always talking on our podcast and social media how amazing the UK Wrestling scene is, and we thought we would bring you some introduction articles by way of a rundown of some of the best promotions and short interviews with some of the wrestlers on the circuit.
Whether you’re new to British Wrestling and want to find out more, or are a seasoned veteran and know all you need to know about it – this is our way of helping you get to know the names, the venues, the promotion and the wrestlers on a more personal level. All the interviews we will be conducting are with current wrestlers that you can catch at your local promotions, the most popular and biggest of which are listed on our handy UK Promotions Map!
So without further ado – let’s welcome our first interviewee – Lana Austin!
What’s your earliest memory of wrestling?
My earliest memory of wrestling is watching the WWF with my dad and being so scared of The Undertaker, haha.
Who were your inspiration(s) to become a wrestler?
My inspirations have to be the Hardy Boyz and Lita. Also my big brother, Lee Austin, always pushed me to start training and kept pushing me when I was there. Another big inspiration who believed in me, made me believe in myself and always helped me to become better, is Tyson T-Bone, I will always be thankful for all the help he gave me.
How did you break into the UK scene?
My first time on a show was at a Great Bear show where I was the valet of DDL (“Dangerous” Damon Leigh), soon after that I started to valet at BWP (Britannia Wrestling Promotions), they gave me the chance to wrestle on one of their shows and then my in ring wrestling career began.
If you could have a dream match with anyone, past or present, from any promotion, who would it be against and what type of match?
Lita!! Haha kidding! I don’t really have a dream match or a dream opponent. I get very excited with every booking, whether it’s working with Nixon (who I enjoy working with and have many of times) or if it’s new people. I’m constantly learning every time I’m in the ring and I appreciate that I get to do what I do.
What’s your favourite thing about wrestling in the UK scene?
Its fun! I enjoy going to every show, whether it’s being there as a fan or being a part of the show. I enjoy meeting new people and also the fans are always amazing! They’re loud, fun and very supportive!
Who are some of your favourite current wrestlers in the UK?
Some of my favourites to watch are Will Osprey, Mark Andrews, Kay Lee Ray, Martin Kirby, Viper, Nikki Storm, Sammi Jayne, Rampage Brown… Can I just favourite everyone, haha! You can learn so much from each person just by watching them.
What’s your current entrance music?
I use a few songs at Futureshock. I use ‘Now’ by Paramore at Tidal and True Grit. I use ‘Kiss with a Fist’ by Florence and the Machine and sometimes ‘Boom Boom Boom’ by the Vengaboys .
Which is your favourite type of match to work?
I love doing tag matches, as there are always lots of ideas to play with.
Which town has the best crowds?
Hmm, I can’t really say a specific town but the best promotion would be Futureshock Wrestling in Stockport, as they always have an amazing crowd. It’s always lots of fun to wrestle in front of them, and they have my back, haha! But I also have a good time with the crowds at Tidal and True Grit, both based in Leeds.
What’s your favourite move?
Can I say my own move?? My Tilt-A-Whirl Stunner!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
One of the best wrestlers in the UK! And someone that people can look up to and learn from.
Thanks to Lana for taking the time to chat with us here at TWM!
Make sure you are following her on Twitter (@Lana_Austin1) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lana-Austin/207224639459002)
Photo © Tony Knox Photography