DXCN Wrestle Storm - On demand review.

DXCN WrestleStorm 2024: A Hidden Gem of the Underground Wrestling Scene

It’s been nearly a year since DXCN WrestleStorm 2024 rocked the Brawlpit Bulusan in Quezon City, but after hearing glowing recommendations and seeing the incredibly affordable price of just 150 pesos ($2.50), I couldn’t resist diving into the full show. Let’s break down why this underground wrestling event deserves the spotlight.

Venue: The Brawlpit Bulusan

The Brawlpit Bulusan is an unassuming fighter training center by day, but by night it transforms into an atmospheric, gritty fight house. Its dark and sinister ambiance feels like a setting straight out of a movie about the criminal underworld. For sheer coolness, it’s a solid 10/10.

Promotion Overview

DXCN is part of a trio of promotions utilizing the Brawlpit, alongside the emerging PUSO Wrestling and the well-established World Underground Wrestling (WUW). Each brings a unique flavor to the local wrestling scene, and tonight’s seven-match card showcased DXCN’s vibrant mix of characters, stories, and high-energy action.

Match 1: Pinoy Bulldog vs. Kappa World Order (Dark Match)

The evening kicked off with a fun and engaging handicap match featuring Pinoy Bulldog against the eerie duo of Kappa Jr. and Kappa Kozo. The Kappas’ snake-like movements and haunting entrance music set an ominous tone that immediately grabbed the crowd’s attention. Their slow, methodical approach in the ring contrasted with Bulldog’s explosive power and raw charisma. Despite an early ambush that saw Bulldog nearly overwhelmed, he mounted an incredible comeback, using a series of stiff strikes and a devastating running powerslam to even the odds. The climax came when Bulldog executed a flawless spike DDT on Kappa Jr., securing the victory to a roar of approval from the audience. The Kappas, though defeated, left a chilling impression as they slithered away, hinting at more chaos to come.

Winner: Pinoy Bulldog

Overall: A fun warmer match for the main card with a local legend against cucumber wielding weirdo’s. Deep down that’s how I like my matches.

Match 2: WUW World Tag Team Titles – Gemini Kings vs. Turn Zero Kill

The returning Gemini Kings, Main Max and Romeo, faced St. John Martin and Ken Cider of Turn Zero Kill in a classic tag team battle that had the fans on their feet from start to finish. The Kings, beloved for their technical prowess and emotional connection with the fans, displayed seamless teamwork as they isolated Martin early on with a series of rapid tags and double-team maneuvers. Martin’s resilience shone through as he fought back, setting up a hot tag to Cider, who unleashed a flurry of high-impact moves, including a jaw-dropping top-rope crossbody that sent the crowd into a frenzy. The match reached its climax with a series of near-falls and counter-finishers, culminating in TZK hitting their devastating double-team finisher, the "Zero Hour," to retain their titles. A post-match handshake between the teams emphasized the mutual respect and sportsmanship of this thrilling encounter.

Winners: Turn Zero Kill

Overall: This was a really good introduction to some of DXCN and the country’s top stars.

Match 3: Chelsea Marie vs. Afam Steve

Chelsea Marie, DXCN’s sultry and confident star, issued an open challenge that was humorously accepted by Afam Steve, whose over-the-top antics had the crowd laughing before the bell even rang. Steve, a lovable character with a penchant for exaggerated theatrics, tried to outwit Chelsea with unorthodox tactics, including requesting Chelsea be his “bestie”. As an outsider to the Philippines, I don’t quite get the full nuances of the character but I guess he is like an Asian country superfan who has a dad like persona and tries too hard to be “cool”.

One other thing worth mentioning was Afam Steve’s entrance music was dubbed in ala an old 2001 ECW VHS being sold for the bankruptcy money, teenage nostalgia for the writer.

However, Chelsea’s poise and technical skill quickly shifted the tone. She countered Steve’s clumsy attempts at offense with a series of elegant takedowns, showcasing her fluidity in the ring. The end came when Chelsea executed a picture-perfect modified scissor kick, earning her a decisive victory. This match was a delightful blend of comedy and action, highlighting the unique personalities of both competitors.

Winner: Chelsea Marie

Overall: Chelsea Marie feels like she could actually be a big time star in wrestling as bizarre as that sounds. She has appeal to lots of different markets and is very striking to see. Steve is fun but shouldn’t be overused in this role a couple of appearances a year is enough I think.

Match 4: Zera vs. Razael

In a grounded and technical contest, Zera faced off against the returning Razael in a match that told a compelling story of respect and perseverance. The opening minutes saw both wrestlers exchanging holds and counters, demonstrating their mastery of grappling techniques. As the pace quickened, Razael began to target Zera’s midsection with a series of brutal knee strikes and submission holds, attempting to wear him down. Zera’s resilience shone through as he fought back, rallying with a flurry of high-flying moves, including a breathtaking springboard moonsault that nearly ended the match. The climactic moment came when Zera ascended to the top rope and delivered a jaw-dropping swanton bomb, securing the victory. After the match, Razael took the microphone to pay an emotional tribute to their late mentor, bringing many in the crowd to tears.

Winner: Zera

That was interesting with Zera being grounded for most of that match before unleashing more exciting moves to finish off. The fans were quiet and I think this was because it wasn't what was expected. That can be a great thing sometimes.

Match 5: Silent D vs. The Machine

The Machine’s dominance was on full display in this one-sided affair against Silent D. From the moment he stepped into the ring, The Machine exuded an aura of invincibility, effortlessly tossing Silent D around like a ragdoll. Despite the size disparity, Silent D’s karate background allowed him to land a few well-placed strikes, briefly slowing The Machine’s momentum. However, it wasn’t long before The Machine regained control, delivering a series of punishing power moves, including a thunderous chokeslam that left Silent D motionless. The match ended with The Machine planting Silent D with his signature powerbomb for the win. Post-match, The Machine grabbed a microphone and issued a chilling challenge to his "brother," St. John Martin, hinting at a deeply personal feud that promises to shake the foundation of DXCN.

Winner: The Machine

Overall: I think I needed a bit more local wrestling history to get this one. The fans understood the story which is the most important thing I'm learning. I liked the personality of the Machine.

Match 6: Robin Sane vs. Shivam (International Dream Match)

Robin Sane, Singapore’s favorite son, squared off against Thai star Shivam in a match that truly lived up to its "International Dream Match" billing. From the opening bell, the action was fast and furious, with both men showcasing their agility and technical acumen. Shivam, known for his global experience, dominated the early moments with a series of crisp suplexes and hard-hitting strikes. Sane, however, refused to back down, countering Shivam’s offense with his signature aerial attacks, including a spectacular dive to the outside that had the crowd chanting his name. The intensity only escalated as the match progressed, with both wrestlers trading near-falls and jaw-dropping reversals. In the end, Shivam’s superior strength proved to be the deciding factor as he delivered a crushing Tiger Bomb to secure the victory. This match was a testament to the growing global reach of Southeast Asian wrestling.

Winner: Shivam

Overall: This was my match of the night for the tenacity of Robin Sane. I’ve seen Shivam a few times around the region now and he is great at being a cocky heel. I’ve already begun to hate him in the right way!

Main Event: IWA Japan SETUP Tag Team Championship

Oro La Plata (Jake De Leon & Dabid Ravena) challenged the Calamari Drunken Kings (Masahiro Takanashi & Chris Brookes) in a thrilling main event that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of DXCN. The champions, renowned for their chemistry and innovative offense, controlled much of the early match, isolating Ravena and targeting his knee with a series of brutal submissions and strikes. La Plata’s hot tag was a game-changer, as De Leon entered the ring with explosive energy, delivering a series of high-impact moves, including a stunning rolling elbow that nearly won the match. The final stretch was pure chaos, with all four men trading finishers and breaking up pin attempts. In the end, the Calamari Drunken Kings retained their titles after a perfectly executed tandem finisher, leaving the crowd in awe. Post-match, the ring descended into chaos as multiple teams stormed the ring, teasing a double championship match that promises to raise the stakes even higher.

Winner: CDK

Overall: Both teams put in an absolute shift here too but I’m glad CDK won purely for the british connection.

Overall Thoughts

DXCN WrestleStorm 2024 delivered a diverse and thoroughly entertaining wrestling experience. The underground vibe, international talent, and engaging characters made for a show that felt both raw and polished. Every match served its purpose, from showcasing rising stars to delivering thrilling main-event action.

While the in-ring microphones could use an upgrade for better audio clarity, this minor gripe doesn’t overshadow the tremendous value and entertainment DXCN offers. At just $2.50, this show was an absolute steal.

Would I watch DXCN again? Absolutely. And attending live? That’s a no-brainer—it looks like a fantastic night out for any wrestling fan. If this is the future of Southeast Asian wrestling, sign me up!

If you would like to watch last years DXCN Wrestlestorm you can click here.

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