McComb native Wes Adams was living the dream in 2007-08 working as a referee for the World Wrestling Entertainment’s highly successful Smackdown show.
That dream was briefly put on hold when his WWE contract wasn’t renewed three years ago.
Three years later, Adams is back to his roots, putting on independent wrestling shows in Mississippi and Georgia.
Adams’ company, Powerslam Productions, has entered into a year contract with the Pike County Little Theatre to put on monthly wrestling shows.
Powerslam Productions, which was formed in 2008, has conducted more than 30 events since its creation.
“We are helping (Pike County Little Theatre) get some consistent shows ... and trying to spread our business out and throughout the state.”
The action starts Saturday when Adams and business partner Reggie Matthews, a Liberty native, will host two shows — one at 2:30 p.m. and an evening show at 7:30 p.m.
“This is a very family friendly show,” said Adams, who has been involved in the wrestling business for the past decade. “We try to mix the best of old school wrestling stuff with the athletic younger generation.”
The show will be headlined by WWE legend Paul Bearer, who most wrestling fans recognize as the manager for WWE superstar The Undertaker.
Also in attendance will be Orlando Jones, who made his mark in the WWE and Total Nonstop Action Wrestling.
Other wrestlers include: Prince of Pain Joe Kane, Sassy Vegas, The Bayou Bad Boys, Nathan Crown, Kool Jay, Aeon Flex, Blake Wilder, Rough N Ready, Socorro, Antonio Brady, Hardbody Harper and The Great Mystic.
Adams, who graduated from Southwest Mississippi Community College and Southern Miss, said 35 percent of the ticket allotment has been sold so far.
Presale tickets are rarely sold on the independent tour, which makes Adams optimistic about the show being successful.
The configuration of Little Theatre with a wrestling ring can accommodate 100-125 people, according to Adams.
Tickets are $8. Doors open for the afternoon event at 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. for the night event.
