There’s One Dark Side Of The Ring Story The Creator Really Wants To Tell But Hasn’t Because Of The Family’s Wishes

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For over five years, the series “Dark Side of the Ring” has delved into the lives, careers, and legacies of professional wrestling’s most infamous personalities, events, and scandals. Although Season 6 is slated for release in 2025 on television schedules, it promises to share more astonishing and heart-wrenching tales with audiences. Regrettably, there are some stories that the creators may never have a chance to explore due to various circumstances.

Before the debut of Season 6 of “Dark Side of the Ring“, which delved into the notorious Hell in a Cell match at the 1998 King of the Ring, I had a conversation with co-creator Evan Husney about the pros, cons, and challenges of this sport. In our discussion, I inquired if there was any wrestler he’s longed to feature but couldn’t, and he promptly mentioned a legendary figure from ECW.

I’ve always been deeply fond of Mike Awesome, something I hold dear and passionate about. It would make for a fantastic segment on our program.

For individuals unfamiliar with him, Mike Awesome, born as Michael Lee Alfonso, is often characterized as an exceptional professional wrestler due to his impressive physique, agility, and intense wrestling style. Throughout his career, he left a significant mark in promotions such as FMW and AJP in Japan, along with U.S.-based companies like WCW and WWE. Nonetheless, many wrestling enthusiasts who admired the six-foot-six heavyweight will recall Awesome from his multiple stints in ECW during the mid to late 1990s.

In our conversation, Husney shared with me that Awesome was a wrestler he admired, particularly during their iconic series of matches against Masato Tanaka in ECW, which included the legendary bout at One Night Stand 2005. This match is still talked about today.

Husney has been eager for a long time to showcase Awesome’s career and enduring legacy on Dark Side of the Ring, celebrating his triumphs with those who may not have witnessed him in action. However, he won’t proceed with an episode unless the family agrees to participate. And that’s where the challenge lies.

As a movie reviewer, I must acknowledge the sensitive nature of the subject matter and the deep emotional toll it takes on the family involved. While I may not fully understand their pain, I can empathize with their desire for privacy during such a difficult time. Respecting their wishes seems only natural, especially in light of how many other productions might rush to tell this story without proper consideration. We believe it’s more important to honor their feelings than to produce a half-hearted portrayal. After all, the right story is one that is told with sensitivity and respect.

I strongly feel that an episode focusing on Awesome’s remarkable career journey in Japan and the U.S. would be fascinating. However, I find myself in agreement with Husney’s stance to postpone such an episode until the family feels comfortable enough to share their experiences. Given the show’s history of approaching sensitive topics with great sensitivity, this decision seems entirely appropriate.

Time will reveal whether Evan Husney and his crew can create an episode featuring Mike Awesome, but you’ll find many other fascinating tales waiting for you when Dark Side of the Ring airs every Tuesday at 10 p.m., exclusively on Vice TV.

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2025-03-26 18:39