Breaking Into the Ring: Starting YourPro Wrestling Journey in Malaysia

Malaysia Pro Wrestling (MYPW) strives to help aspiring wrestlers step into the ring, driven by passion and dedication to growing the sport.

By Au Mei Teng — October 19, 2024 @ 11.40 am

The Malaysian wrestlers at MYPW’s New Breed II at Kuash theater TTDI.

A Vision of Growth

When MYPW first started its journey, the idea of professional wrestling in Malaysia seemed impossible. After all, most Malaysians were only familiar with watching it on television. However, the organization has grown gradually over the years, developing local talent and increasing interest in the Malaysian wrestling scene.

“MYPW has grown a lot over the past ten years, creating new and upcoming Malaysian wrestlers every year, growing the industry” Andrew shared. 

Most people may look at wrestling  as entertainment, but the dedication required to become a professional wrestler and succeed in the ring is not as simple as it looks. For Mypw, their main challenge  has always been finding students who are willing to commit to the training.  

“Some of the challenges we face all the time are the lack of commitment from newer students,” he explained. “A lot of them come in thinking they have what it takes to become a wrestler, but they end up quitting after a week.

While newcomers are always welcome to join, those who stick around and willing to commit to training are deeply valued. Commitment is the key to success. “My best and most simple advice is to not quit,” Andrew emphasized. “If you really want this, you will not quit. And it’s these kinds of people we put our time and effort into because they are the ones who will grow this industry.” 

The First Step: The Tryout

So, what does it really take to start your journey in professional wrestling at MYPW? Newcomers must first go through a tryout session, the purpose of it is to test their physical and mental toughness. The ones who pass the tryout will be invited to join MYPW’s training program. 

“Beginners first have to go through a tryout session, and if they pass that session, they are then qualified to join our classes,” he explained. “Our classes will provide them the tools necessary to become a professional wrestler.”

The Training Program

Once accepted into the program, trainees must commit to training weekly. A typical training session starts with dynamic warm-ups,it  helps avoid injury and prepares the body for the physical challenges. Afterward, they focus on drills to master fundamental wrestling techniques and to ensure that wrestlers learn how to protect themselves during falls, throws, and also high impact moves.

Training is led by two of MYPW’s coaches and an international wrestler from Australia, Zhen Wen (pictured at the bottom, center).

Safety is crucial in professional wrestling. While the matches may be scripted, the physical risks are real. Injuries happen, which is why perfecting technique and developing a strong physique are important parts of the program. Trainees are also encouraged to go to the gym on a regular basis, as growing strength and endurance is equally as crucial as improving in-ring skills.  

“Many people end up not being able to take the vigorous pain that we go through during training,” he noted. “Our students are expected to go to the gym as well, in order to not only look good — most importantly, a good physique will protect them in the ring.”

After learning the drills and techniques, students will take part in practice matches where they are encouraged to put their creativity and skills to the test. These opportunities allow them to work on their characters, engage in storytelling, and create a unique persona.

The Rising of Professional Wrestling in Malaysia

Although pro wrestling is yet to be mainstream in Malaysia, its popularity is gradually increasing. MYPW has made significant steps towards growing the local scene, and the future seems promising.

“The pro wrestling scene has come a very long way in Malaysia and it is only gaining more popularity as time goes by!” he said. “Compared to how we started ten years ago, our knowledge that we’ve acquired from many big names in the industry has grown, and our skills and abilities have also reached an international standard!” 

The organization has created a platform in which local wrestlers get to live their dreams and wrestle with opponents from all around the world, which was something that was unthinkable just a decade ago.  

 “My ultimate vision for MYPW and the future of Malaysian pro wrestling has always, and will always, be the same. That is sustainability. My vision is to see pro wrestling gaining the attention of the mainstream audience in Malaysia, getting more eyes on us, and growing our industry further.” he added. 

For anyone who has been thinking about pursuing professional wrestling in Malaysia, now is your chance to take the first step and knock down doors that you could never have imagined.