Pro Wrestling Slams At ​“Fair Haven Fallout”

The following writeup was submitted by Ward 15 Alder and Elm City Wrestling Club General Manager Frank Redente and BST Wrestling Head of Production Kevin Sanabria. 

Growing up in New Haven, the professional wrestling shows put on by the World Wrestling Federation (now World Wrestling Entertainment) were at the New Haven Coliseum seemingly every month. Fans poured in from across the state to see talents like Andre the Giant, Undertaker, Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, and Triple H. The last wrestling show at the New Haven Coliseum was held over two decades ago, in August 2002 – and with the closure of the Coliseum in the same year, wrestling lost its New Haven home.

Professional wrestling roared back to a local stage Saturday, immediately following the Fair Haven Day Parade and Festival, to a crowd of over 500 ecstatic fans at the historic Fair Haven School Auditorium. The occasion was ​“Fair Haven Fallout,” a charity show to benefit juvenile diabetes research organized by BST Wrestling – a Latino-owned Connecticut company that elevates the state’s wrestling talent – in partnership with the Elm City Wrestling Club and juvenile diabetes advocacy group United by One. 

Local stars shined bright, including BST Champion Sammy Diaz of Hartford, who defended his title in a triple threat match against fan-favorite Ichiban and former WWE talent Sidney Akeem. BST Territory Champion Dustin ​“Flash” Waller of Meriden stepped into the ring against WWE NXT ID standout Jackson Drake, showcasing the talent in Connecticut. Kylon King and Richard Holliday, both of New Haven, received ovations. Lucas Chase of Bridgeport also brought the fight in a triple threat bout, demonstrating the toughness and drive that has made him a regional standout. This thrilling in-ring action demonstrated that the spirit of professional wrestling is alive and thriving in Connecticut.

Beyond the performances, the Fair Haven Fallout brought families and community together for a showcase of local pride, athleticism, and opportunity. Fair Haven School teacher Michael Soares attended with his sons, who ​“had an unforgettable time. The energy was electric, the atmosphere was family-friendly, and everything was incredibly well-organized. The storylines were entertaining, the acrobatic feats were breathtaking, and the wrestlers had the audience mesmerized. We enjoyed booing the heels and cheering on the good guys. We look forward to other high-energy events bringing the Fair Haven community together.”

With a focus on inspiring the next generation, the event also included the presentation of two awards. The first, the Fair Haven Day Award, honors a neighborhood native who has made significant contributions far beyond, and went to Joe Rodriguez of Puerto Ricans United and Senator Richard Blumenthal’s office. The second — the Dan Pacagli memorial community service award, named in honor of the 17-year veteran of the New Haven Police Department killed while on duty in 2006 — went to Sgt. Ron Ferrante of the NHPD’s Police Activity League (PAL).

Through the lens of the Elm City Wrestling Club, attendees were reminded that the world of wrestling includes avenues in coaching, production, commentary, creative development, and events management. The Club promotes professional wrestling as a form of athletic entertainment and trains youth in wrestling, acting, public speaking, set design, camera work, and AV production. Its mission is to equip inner-city youth with the tools to succeed in all aspects of life. 

The night served as a reminder that, for Connecticut youth dreaming beyond traditional paths, wrestling can be a gateway not just to athletic glory, but also to a wide range of connected careers. Interested youth have the opportunity to get involved in future events inspired by Fair Haven Fallout by following the Elm City Wrestling Club on Instagram.