GRAPPLE fans on the south coast are in for a treat in February as Ultimate Pro Wrestling celebrates its first birthday with a blockbuster event.

The company, which features the best of British wrestling talent, will hold its anniversary show on February 12 at the Riviera Hotel in Weymouth.

UPW ran shows in Weymouth and Dorchester throughout 2015, regularly drawing crowds of more than 200 people.

Co-promoter Mark Fry said: "I feel fans are being attracted by the amazing amount of talent based in the UK.

"The lack of wrestling on television is actually helping as fans are giving their local promotions a chance.

"It is then down to the promoters to put on a great show that makes fans want to return again and again."

UPW's match card will be headlined by a Heavyweight Championship clash, with current champion Marty "The Villain" Scurll defending his belt against sworn enemy Lord Gideon Grey.

Marty is one of the most popular stars on the British wrestling circuit and recently returned from the USA, where he worked as part of Pro Wrestling Guerrilla's annual Battle of Los Angeles tournament.

Marty said: "I've faced many different men all across the world, different shapes and sizes, different backgrounds and nationalities, but on February 12th, at the Rivera Hotel in Weymouth, I take on a Lord.

"As skilled a wrestler as Grey is, he's just that, the contender.

"I have this belt for a reason, it proves that I'm the best this country has to offer, one of the best in the world.

"Unfortunately for Grey, he is going to find that out the hard way and, much like everyone else, he shall fall victim to The Villain."

The entertainment provided by UPW is suitable for families, with audiences of all ages filling the crowd at shows.

Mark said: "There was a point when we were going to be an over 18 only show.

"But, as the shows have progressed we have seen the amount of families coming to shows grow.

"When we see the enjoyment on people's faces we know we have made the correct decision."

UPW's anniversary showcase will take place on February 12 at Riviera Hotel, with doors opening at 7pm for a 7:30pm start.

Tickets cost £12.50 for adults and £5 for children, available on the door or in advance from Gifts and Goodies in St Albans Street.

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