8 Wrestling Matches That Happened For The First Time Ever In WCPW

7. Mike Bailey Vs. Kyle O’Reilly

It’s surprising that Canadian standouts Mike Bailey and Kyle O’Reilly hadn’t wrestled each other prior to May’s Pro Wrestling World Cup Canadian Qualifying Round. The two countrymen have spent the past few years treading similar independent paths, but had never shared a ring at home or abroad until the night they met under the WCPW banner.

O’Reilly, a former Ring Of Honor Champion, defeated Tyson Dux to earn his spot in the finals, while Bailey overcame Brent Banks in an exciting first round bout. They met in the final, and the match was predictably outstanding, with both calling on top notch submission wrestling, precise limb targeting, and stiff strikes throughout, giving the contest an old-school shoot wrestling vibe.

If you like your wrestling realistic and hard-hitting, you’ll love this bout. Bailey eventually scored the victory with his Shooting Star Knees, but both put forth a fantastic performance, and one that lived up to their reputations. Their efforts earned a strong standing ovation from the crowd, and Bailey moved on to the first set of finals on 23 August, where he’ll face one of two wrestlers to emerge from the rest of the world bracket.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.