Wrestling fans in Tampa Bay were treated to an unforgettable night of nostalgia, action, and exclusive meet-and-greets as Glory Days: GrappleCon 2 took over the Residence Inn Marriott at NorthPointe Village this past weekend. The event, packed with wrestling legends and today’s top indie stars, delivered a must-see experience for fans of all eras.
A Night of Terror & Tales with Nikita Koloff
The weekend kicked off in terrifying fashion on Friday, March 28, as “The Russian Nightmare” Nikita Koloff hosted a chilling Q&A session, sharing harrowing stories from his career and beyond. Fans soaked in the tales from “deepest, darkest Siberia” while enjoying an open bar stocked with beer and liquor—all for just $40, a steal compared to nearby bars.
GrappleCon 2: A Who’s Who of Wrestling
Saturday, March 29, brought the main event—Glory Days: GrappleCon 2—featuring an incredible lineup of wrestling icons and rising stars. Fans had the chance to meet:
- NWO Sting (Jeff Farmer) – Reliving the glory days of WCW’s most infamous faction.
- Arn Anderson – The Enforcer of the Four Horsemen signing autographs and sharing war stories.
- Haku/Meng – One of the most feared men in wrestling history.
- Dutch Mantell, Glacier, Col. Robert Parker, & Bunkhouse Buck – Classic WCW personalities in the house.
- Atomic Legacy Wrestling’s Finest – Including Teal Piper, ALW Champion Ryzin, and the brutal House of Heathens.
But the star power didn’t stop there. April Hunter—WCW alum, fitness icon, and comic book heroine—joined the event, alongside SHINE Champion Ivelisse (WWE Tough Enough, AEW, Lucha Underground) and the “Unbreakable” Lexi Gomez, one of the most exciting names in women’s wrestling today.
Indie Wrestling Meets Old-School Flair
A major highlight was the presence of Atomic Legacy Wrestling, Florida’s hottest indie promotion, bringing their top talent to GrappleCon. Fans got up close with Brothers In Arms, Deimos, and more, proving that the future of wrestling is in good hands.
VIPs, Vendors, and Nonstop Action
With VIP tickets selling out fast, lucky fans enjoyed premium access, while others soaked in the atmosphere with general admission. Former WCW announcer David Penzer and referee Jimmy Jett added to the nostalgia, and vendors offered everything from rare memorabilia to custom artwork.
Final Bell
Whether fans came for the legends, the indie standouts, or just to raise a glass with Nikita Koloff, GrappleCon 2 delivered an epic weekend. Missed it? Keep an eye out for GrappleCon 3—because if this year was any indication, the next one will be even bigger!