Test Run Pro Wrestling (TRPW), a fictional sports entertainment federation that captivated fans with its imaginative storytelling and unique match types, has officially ceased operations. Announced earlier this week, the closure marks the end of an era that began in 2005 and saw its peak between 2005 and 2013.
Owner Joey Styles expressed gratitude to the fictional roster and the fans who supported the promotion. “After a long discussion with our roster and others involved with this storied promotion, we’ve decided now is the best time to walk away,” Styles said. The promotion is known for its outlandish match types, including the infamous freefall match, where victory was achieved by dropping an opponent from extreme heights. One of its hallmark events, the “Player Bowl,” was designed to determine the best grappler in the world.
Despite its rich history, TRPW fell silent after 2015, with no significant events held in recent years. The decision to close came as a surprise to many, but it stems from a personal circumstance involving a beloved pet. The action figures that represented the wrestlers of TRPW suffered unfortunate fates due to the destructive habits of a cat, weighing in at a hefty 19 pounds.
Reflecting on the closure, the creator of TRPW noted that the action figures, once a source of creativity and joy, had become casualties of life. “I looked at the box of scattered wrestlers — arms missing, legs missing, heads loose, titles stripped — casualties of the roughest bouts my bedroom floor had ever seen,” he shared. The loss of these figures prompted a nostalgic journey down memory lane, revealing the deep connection between childhood imagination and adult creativity.
For many, TRPW represented more than just a pastime; it was a formative experience that sparked creativity. The creator reminisced about how his mother would often encourage his storytelling, saying, “You have such a great imagination.” This affirmation helped him cultivate a passion for building worlds and narratives, a skill that would later serve him well in professional life.
As adult responsibilities take precedence, the whimsical nature of childhood play often fades. The rings are packed away, match cards are left unwritten, and the memories begin to blur. Yet, the essence of creativity remains, waiting to be reawakened. Whether through re-engaging with old toys, revisiting cherished games, or allowing the mind to wander, these simple acts can reignite the spark of imagination.
Ultimately, the closure of Test Run Pro Wrestling serves as a reminder of the importance of creativity in everyday life. While it may not translate directly to professional success, the joy derived from such imaginative endeavors can be invaluable.
As the curtain falls on this chapter, the creator of TRPW encourages everyone to embrace their inner child, if only for a moment. In the end, engaging with our imaginations may just be enough to spark a smile and inspire one more show.
