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{{Infobox Wrestling promotion
{{Pwcompanybox |
name = Empire Wrestling Federation |
|name=Empire Wrestling Federation
image = |
|image=EWF_2012_Logo.svg
acronym = EWF |
|acronym=EWF
established = [[1996]] |
|established=1996
style = |
|style=
location = [[Southern California]] |
|location=[[Southern California]]
founder = Bill Anderson and [[Jesse Hernandez]] |
|founder=Bill Anderson and Jesse Hernandez
owner = Jesse Hernandez |
|owner=[[Jesse Hernandez]]
parent = |
|parent=
sister = |
|sister=
formerly = |
|formerly=
merged = |
|merged=
}}
|}}
The '''Empire Wrestling Federation (EWF)''' is an [[professional wrestling promotion|independent wrestling promotion]] based in [[Covina, California]]. It is owned and operated by [[Jesse Hernandez]]. The EWF is also tied to Hernandez's [[wrestling school]], ''The School Of Hard Knocks''. The EWF is the longest running promotion in Southern California, running continuously from 1996. The EWF is a former affiliate of the [[National Wrestling Alliance]].


==History==
The '''Empire Wrestling Federation (EWF)''' is a small [[professional wrestling promotion|independent wrestling promotion]] based in [[San Bernardino, California]]. It is owned and operated by Jesse Hernandez. The EWF is also tied to Jesse Hernandez's [[wrestling school]], ''The School Oh Hard Knocks''. Many of the wrestlers on the EWF's current roster were trained by Jesse Hernandez himself at ''The School Of Hard Knocks''.
EWF was founded in 1996 by [[Bill Anderson (wrestler)|Bill Anderson]] and Jesse Hernandez. The promotion's name comes from the [[Inland Empire]], the popular name of the area surrounding San Bernardino.


It saw its first show in May 1996 at the Boys and Girls Club of San Bernardino as [[Bobby Bradley (wrestler)|Bobby Bradley]] defeated [[Tom Howard (wrestler)|Tom "Zuma" Howard]] to become the first EWF Heavyweight Champion. In 1999, Bill Anderson left the EWF and formed his own promotion and wrestling school, the [[International Wrestling Council]] in [[Riverside, California]]. In June 1996, a tribute to [[Superstar Billy Graham]] was held.
==Roster==

*[[Alex Pinchek]]
Several EWF wrestlers from the past have gone on to national fame, including [[Rico Constantino]], [[Awesome Kong]], [[Louie Spicolli]], [[Frankie Kazarian]], [[Christopher Daniels]], [[Shelly Martinez]] and [[Melina Perez]]. In 1997, [[Chris Jericho]] and [[Lee Marshall (announcer)|Lee Marshall]] of [[World Championship Wrestling]] (WCW) mentioned EWF on WCW broadcasts and Marshall attended a show in [[Hemet, California]]. Other [[Professional wrestling|pro wrestling]] stars have made appearance at EWF shows including [[Mando Guerrero]], [[Peter Maivia]], [[Tony Halme|Ludvig Borga]], [[The Honky Tonk Man]], [[Tony Atlas]] and [[Tom Brandi]]. Many EWF wrestlers appear as [[job (professional wrestling)|jobbers]] on [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] (WWE) broadcasts, and at the [[Royal Rumble (1999)|1999 Royal Rumble]] the orderlies sent to apprehend [[Glenn Jacobs|Kane]] were performed by the EWF roster, including then owners Bill Anderson and Jesse Hernandez.
*[[Antonio Mestre]]

*[[Big Babi Slymm]]
They held their 20th Anniversary Extravaganza at the EWF Arena in Covina, Ca on May 6, 2016.
*[[Bino Gambino]]

*[[Brandon Nitro]]
==School of Hard Knocks==
*[["Canadian Goddess" Candice LaRae]]
The EWF School of Hard Knocks is owned and operated by Jesse Hernandez and is currently located at the American Sports University, 399 North "D" Street in San Bernardino, CA. The School of Hard Knocks became the Official Training Facility of the National Wrestling Alliance in 2007 and has trained countless students from such countries as Canada, France, Australia, India, Great Britain, Russia, Mexico and others, in addition to those students who come to the school from all [[List of regions of the United States|regions of the United States]]. The EWF's School of Hard Knocks has sent several wrestlers to prominent promotions across the globe including [[Melina Perez|Melina]], [[Rico Constantino]], [[Frankie Kazarian]], [[Kia Stevens|Awesome Kong]], [[Rocky Romero]], [[Ricky Reyes]], [[Alex Koslov]] and [[Shelly Martinez]]. The School of Hard Knocks also has served as the training area for [[Chris Jericho]], [[Layla El|Layla]], [[Eve Torres]], [[Trenesha Biggers|Rhaka Khan]], [[Lena Yada]] and others, who looked to brush up on their in-ring skills. The school and some of its students are set to be promoted in the upcoming reality show, "Slam School".
*[[Chef McFluffin]]
*Cotton Candy
*[[Dan "The Man" Kobrick]]
*[[Darkside]]
*[[Dave The Bruiser]]
*El Dorado
*[[Enigma De Oro]]
*[["The Firebird" Ryan Taylor]]
*[[George "The Body Collector" Martinez]]
*Guerrero Negro
*[["Handsome" Johnny Starr]]
*[[Human Tornado]]
*Iceman
*[[J.C. Castro]]
*Jason King
*[[Joey Harder]]
*[[Kid Karnage]]
*[[Kayam]]
*[[Mad MacIntosh]]
*[["Mad" Max Martin]]
*[[Matt Flash]]
*[[Mike Arsenal]]
*[[Mr. Nitro2Go]]
*The Plague
*Puma
*[[Rocky Romero]]
*[[Ron Kilbourn]]
*[[Scorpio Sky]]
*Syrus
*[[T.J. Perkins]]
*[[Vince "The Crusader" Garcia]]
*[[Vizzion]]
===Other===
*[[Cincinnati Red]] (Agent)
*[[James Rock]] (Referee)
*[[Jesse Hernandez]] (Promoter)
*[[Jessica Walters]] (Ring Announcer)
*[[Mike Aguirre]] (Ring Announcer)


==Current champions==
==Current champions==
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable sortable" width=98% style="text-align:center;"
!Championship:
|'''Title:'''
!Current champion(s):
|'''Champion(s):'''
|'''Date Won:'''
!Date Won:
|'''Won From:'''
!Won From:
!Days
|'''Location:'''
!Location:
|-
|EWF World Title||Bino Gambino||[[September 23]], [[2005]]||Jason King||[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|-
|[[EWF Heavyweight Championship]]
|EWF American Title||Syrus||[[July 22]], [[2005]]||Jason King||[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|Richie Slade
|April 8, 2023
|Anthony Idol
|{{age in days|April 8, 2023}}+
|[[San Bernardino, CA]]
|-
|-
|[[EWF American Championship]]
|EWF Tag Team Title||Dan "The Man Kobrick & Guerrero Negro||[[November 25]], [[2005]]||Los Chivos||[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|Michael Badwolf
|April 29, 2023
|"El Vato Loco" Erick Rojas
|{{age in days|April 29, 2023}}+
|[[Riverside, CA]]
|-
|-
|[[EWF Tag Team Championship]]
|EWF Cruiserweight Title||Joey Harder||[[September 22]], [[2005]]||Bino Gambino||[[San Fransisco, California|San Fransisco, CA]]
|Los Compas ([[Ray Malvado]] & Flecha Fugaz)
|September 23, 2023
|Los MexiMachos (Tio Chulo & Tortuga)
|{{age in days|September 23, 2023}}+
|[[San Bernardino, CA]]
|}
|}


==Defunct championships==
==Events==
The [[EWF Cruiserweight Championship]] was introduced in 2004 and was won by Liger Rivera in a 4-Way match. It was defended from 2004 until it was retired in 2011. It had been featured in the EWF's Match of the Year in both 2009 and 2010. [[Ray Rosas]] was the last EWF Cruiserweight Champion. Also defunct was the women's championship belt. It has yet to be brought back into the company.


===2004===
==Annual events==
The Empire Wrestling Federation previously held two annual events, the Great Goliath and the Inland Title Tournament. The Great Goliath is a battle royal, held in honor of the wrestler who trained Jesse Hernandez, the EWF's owner and promoter, it has been held during the EWF's Anniversary Extravaganza in May since 2006. The winner is awarded a shot at the [[EWF Heavyweight Championship]].

===Great Goliath Battle Royal===
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
!Won By:
|'''Event'''
!Year Won:
|'''Date'''
|'''Location'''
!Location:
!Notes:
|-
|-
|Anthony Idol
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|2022
|[[January 23]], [[2004]]
|San Bernardino, CA
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|{{small|Used his title shot against J2 Mattioli at Jingle slam 2022 & won. }}
|-
|-
|Anthony Idol & Raunchy Rico
|Arrowhead Stadium
|2021
|[[February 7]], [[2004]]
|[[San Bernardino, California|San Bernardino, CA]]
|San Bernardino , CA
|{{small|This was for the Vacant EWF Tag Team championship. }}
|-
|-
|[[Jordan Clearwater]]
|Del Haven Community Center
|2019
|[[March 27]], [[2004]]
|Covina, CA
|[[La Puenta, California|La Puenta, CA]]
|{{small|This was for the Vacant EWF American Championship. }}
|-
|-
|The Decapitator
|Set Free Church
|2018
|[[April 17]], [[2004]]
|Covina, CA
|[[Yucaipa, California|Yucaipa, CA]]
|{{small|He has yet to schedule his title shot. }}
|-
|-
|Friar Juan Roman
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|2017
|[[April 23]], [[2004]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|Covina, CA
|{{small|Used his title shot against Fidel Bravo in August of 2017 and lost. }}
|-
|-
|Dr. Krueger
|Bristow Park
|2016
|[[May 2]], [[2004]]
|Covina, CA
|[[City Of Commerce, California|City Of Commerce, CA]]
|{{small|Never received title shot due to injury.}}
|-
|-
|"Baby Bull" Vance Garayt
|Rancho Verde High School
|2015
|[[May 6]], [[2004]]
|Covina, CA
|[[Perris, California|Perris, CA]]
|{{small|Used his title shot against the Ironman the following month and lost.}}
|-
|-
|Tyshaun Prince
|Del Haven Community Center
|2014
|[[May 7]], [[2004]]
|Covina, CA
|[[La Puenta, California|La Puenta, CA]]
|{{small|Used his title shot against the Ironman the following month and lost.}}
|-
|-
|Ironman Mike Maze
|Lincoln Park
|2013
|[[May 8]], [[2004]]
|Covina, CA
|[[Riverside, California|Riverside, CA]]
|{{small|Won the vacant EWF Championship}}
|-
|-
|[[Joey Ryan (wrestler)|Joey Ryan]]
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|2012
|[[May 28]], [[2004]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|Covina, CA
|{{small|Last minute surprise entrant}}
|-
|-
|Josh Dunbar/[[Shaun Ricker]]
|Mounain Lakes Resort
|2011
|[[May 29]], [[2004]]
|Covina, CA
|[[Lytle Creek, California|Lytle Creek, CA]]
|{{small|Both men eliminated each other simultaneously, declared Co-Winners}}
|-
|-
|Chris Kadillak
|[[Ted DiBiase]] Christian Event
|2010
|[[June 20]], [[2004]]
|Covina, CA
|[[Wilcox, Arizona|Wilcox, AZ]]
|
|-
|-
|Devon Willis
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|2009
|[[June 25]], [[2004]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|Covina, CA
|{{small|Used his title shot at The Covina Classic, winning the match by countout against then champion, Brandon Gatson. Lost their rematch at Knockdown Dragout 3}}
|-
|-
|[[Ryan Taylor (wrestler born 1987)|Ryan Taylor]]
|Set Free Church
|2008
|[[June 26]], [[2004]]
|Covina, CA
|[[Fontana, California|Fontana, CA]]
|{{small|Used his title shot at The Covina Classic, losing to then champion, [[Scorpio Sky]].}}
|-
|-
|Dan "The Man" Kobrick
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|2007
|[[July 23]], [[2004]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|Covina, CA
|{{small|Used his title shot at The Covina Classic, losing to then champion, Joey Harder.}}
|-
|-
|[[Cincinnati Red]]
|Free Ct. St. Square Show
|2006
|[[July 31]], [[2004]]
|Covina, CA
|[[San Bernardino, California|San Bernardino, CA]]
|{{small|Gave the trophy to Great Goliath's daughter, Paloma, and forfeited his right to a title match.}}
|-
|California Job Corps Event
|[[August 20]], [[2004]]
|[[San Francisco, California|San Francisco, CA]]
|-
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|[[August 27]], [[2004]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|Samoan Flag Day Celebration
|[[August 27]], [[2004]]
|[[Carson, California|Carson, CA]]
|-
|Free Ct. St. Square Show
|[[September 4]], [[2004]]
|[[San Bernardino, California|San Bernardino, CA]]
|-
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|[[September 24]], [[2004]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|Wal-Mart
|[[October 9]], [[2004]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|[[October 10]], [[2004]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|[[October 22]], [[2004]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|Moreno Valley High School
|[[October 23]], [[2004]]
|[[Moreno Valley, California|Moreno Valley, CA]]
|-
|Set Free Church
|[[October 31]], [[2004]]
|[[Yucaipa, California|Yucaipa, CA]]
|-
|La Quinta High School
|[[November 13]], [[2004]]
|[[La Quinta, California|La Quinta, CA]]
|-
|Set Free Church
|[[November 19]], [[2004]]
|[[San Bernardino, California|San Bernardino, CA]]
|-
|Toys For Tots Drive
|[[November 21]], [[2004]]
|[[Lancaster, California|Lancaster, CA]]
|-
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|[[November 26]], [[2004]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|California Job Corps Event
|[[December 9]], [[2004]]
|[[San Francisco, California|San Francisco, CA]]
|-
|Toys For Tots Drive
|[[December 11]], [[2004]]
|[[San Bernardino, California|San Bernardino, CA]]
|-
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|[[December 19]], [[2004]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|}
|}


===Inland Title Tournament / Series===
===2005===
Up until 2014 the EWF held the Inland Title Tournament. Originally conceived as a Round Robin Tournament it was later changed to a traditional single elimination format. The winner each year would receive an EWF Championship title match.
{| class="wikitable"

|'''Event'''
|'''Date'''
* '''2006''': Joey Harder
* '''2007''': Brandon Gatson
|'''Location'''
* '''2008''': [[The Young Bucks | Matt & Nick Jackson]]
* '''2009''': SoCal Crazy
* '''2010''': Tommy Wilson
* '''2011''': Jeremy Jaeger
* '''2012''': Sugar Sweet
* '''2013''': N/A No tournament was held.
* '''2014''': RJ Ruiz

==Charity events==
The Empire Wrestling Federation is always giving back to the communities it runs in. On March 10, 2012, the EWF put on a show for the students of Thompson Elementary School in Highland, CA. "Honestly, I see this as a way to keep the families engaged and involved," said Principal Funchess, adding, “This is just a great opportunity for Thompson families to come enjoy a positive event here at the school while supporting academic achievement.”<ref name="Throwing down for grades at Thompson">{{cite web|url=http://highlandnews.net/articles/2012/03/15/news/schools/doc4f62785d5ec72855946750.txt|title=Throwing down for grades at Thompson}}</ref>

In 2016 The Empire Wrestling Federation held an event at the Fox Theatre in San Bernardino to benefit victims of the [[2015 San Bernardino Attack]].<ref name="San Bernardino charity wrestling event scheduled for this Friday">{{cite web|url=http://www.pwmania.com/san-bernardino-charity-wrestling-event-scheduled-for-this-friday|title=San Bernardino charity wrestling event scheduled for this Friday|date=11 April 2016}}</ref>

==Hall of Fame==
In 2016, EWF announced its first hall of Fame inductees, who were inducted in its 20th anniversary show in Covina California. The first Inductees were:
*[[Melina Perez]] — Former EWF women's wrestler, and former three-time WWE Women's Champion and two-time WWE Divas Champion. She is also the first woman in WWE history to have held both titles on more than one occasion.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://socaluncensored.com/2016/04/28/a-look-at-the-ewf-hall-of-fames-inaugural-class/|title = A Look at the EWF Hall of Fame's Inaugural Class|date = 28 April 2016}}</ref>

*[[Bobby Bradley (wrestler)|Bobby Bradley]] — The first EWF world champion who held the title three times.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://socaluncensored.com/2016/04/28/a-look-at-the-ewf-hall-of-fames-inaugural-class/|title = A Look at the EWF Hall of Fame's Inaugural Class|date = 28 April 2016}}</ref>

*[[Frankie Kazarian]] — Former EWF world and Tag Team champion who is most famous for wrestling for [[Total Nonstop Action Wrestling]] where he was Five time TNA X-Division and three time TNA Tag team champion. He has held [[Ring Of Honor]] tag team championship once with Christopher Daniels and wrestled briefly in WWE.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://socaluncensored.com/2016/04/28/a-look-at-the-ewf-hall-of-fames-inaugural-class/|title = A Look at the EWF Hall of Fame's Inaugural Class|date = 28 April 2016}}</ref>

The 2017 class included:
*[[Vizzon]] — three-time EWF World Champion and three Time America Champion despite being legally blind.

*[[Awesome Kong]] — Former EWF women's wrestler, Former two time TNA Knockouts Champion, Knockouts tag team Champion, NWA World Women's Champion, WWWA world Women's Champion, and AWA Superstars of Wrestling Women's Champion as well as WWE Diva under the name of Karma. She was Pro Wrestling Illustrated's Woman of the Year in 2008

*[[Jeff Walton]] — long time wrestling promoter and manager

Class of 2018 will be:
*[[Rick Knox]] — referee

*[[Los Chivos]] — Four time EWF world tag team Champions

==Staff==

===Officials===
* '''Owner / Promoter:''' [[Jesse Hernandez]]
* '''Commissioner:''' Frank Mott
* '''Deputy Commissioner:''' Jake Alexander
* '''Head of Security:''' [[Deek Valor]]

===Referees===
* '''Senior Official''': Nick Lira
* Justin Borden
* Christopher Lee

===Commentators===
{| class="wikitable sortable"
!Commentators:
!Dates:
|-
|-
|"Mr. Wonderful" Rock Riddle and Bryan White
|New Begining
|July 2016 – Present
|[[January 9]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|-
|"Webmaster" Wade Needham and "The Expert" Matt Sinister
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|October 14, 2011 – July 2016
|[[January 28]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|-
|Kelli Lee and "The Expert" Matt Sinister
|A New Era Begins
|July 2, 2011 – October 14, 2011
|[[February 12]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|-
|Lalo Gonzalez, Kelli Lee, and "The Expert" Matt Sinister
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|June 5, 2011 – July 2, 2011
|[[February 26]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|-
|Main Place Fellowship Christian Center
|[[March 12]], [[2005]]
|[[Tustin, California|Tustin, CA]]
|-
|-
|Lalo Gonzalez and Kelli Lee
|Knights Of Columbus Hall
|N/A – July 2, 2011
|[[March 25]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|-
|April Fool's Mania
|[[April 1]], [[2005]]
|[[Victorville, California|Victorville, CA]]
|-
|-
|Lalo Gonzalez and Larry Pena
|Knights Of Colombus Hall
|2008-2011
|[[April 22]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|-
|Set Free Church
|[[April 23]], [[2005]]
|[[Yucaipa, California|Yucaipa, CA]]
|-
|-
|Mike Aguirre, Larry Pena, Mad Macintosh, and Lalo Gonzalez
|Free Ct. St. Square Show
|2008
|[[April 30]], [[2005]]
|[[San Bernardino, California|San Bernardino, CA]]
|-
|-
|Thomas & Mack Center
|[[May 6]], [[2005]]
|[[Las Vegas, Nevada|Las Vegas, NV]]
|-
|-
|Mike Aguirre, Larry Pena, and Mad Macintosh
|Set Free Church
|2007-2008
|[[May 7]], [[2005]]
|[[Yucaipa, California|Yucaipa, CA]]
|-
|Serrano High School
|[[May 13]], [[2005]]
|[[Phelam, California|Phelam, CA]]
|-
|Set Free Church
|[[May 21]], [[2005]]
|[[Riverside, California|Riverside, CA]]
|-
|The Covina Classic
|[[May 27]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|Mountain Lakes Resort
|[[May 28]], [[2005]]
|[[Lytle Creek, California|Lytle Creek CA]]
|-
|Lyrics Bar & Grill
|[[June 4]], [[2005]]
|[[San Bernardino, California|San Bernardino, CA]]
|-
|Lyrics bar & Grill
|[[June 11]], [[2005]]
|[[San Bernardino, California|San Bernardino, CA]]
|-
|EWF Unsupervised
|[[June 24]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|Independent's Day - ''Night 1''
|[[July 9]], [[2005]]
|[[San Bernardino, California|San Bernardino, CA]]
|-
|Free Ct. St. Square Show
|[[July 16]], [[2005]]
|[[San Bernardino, California|San Bernardino, CA]]
|-
|Independent's Day - ''Night 2''
|[[July 22]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|EWF Is Overheating
|[[August 7]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|Wal-Mart Grand Re-Opening
|[[August 12]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|Wal-Mart Grand Re-Opening
|[[August 14]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|EWF Meltdown
|[[August 19]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|Samoan Flag Day Celebration
|[[August 26]], [[2005]]
|[[Carson, California|Carson, CA]]
|-
|California Chaos Tour - ''Night 1''
|[[September 22]], [[2005]]
|[[San Francisco, California|San Francisco, CA]]
|-
|California Chaos Tour - ''Night 2''
|[[September 23]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|California Chaos Tour - ''Night 3''
|[[September 24]], [[2005]]
|[[San Bernardino, California|San Bernardino, CA]]
|-
|California Chaos Tour - ''Night 4''
|[[September 25]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|The Team-Up For Katrina ''(EWF/[[Ultimate Pro Wrestling|UPW]] Joint Show)''
|[[October 8]], [[2005]]
|[[San Bernardino, California|San Bernardino, CA]]
|-
|IGN Live! - ''Day 1''
|[[October 22]], [[2005]]
|[[Anaheim, California|Anaheim, CA]]
|-
|IGN Live! - ''Day 2''
|[[October 23]], [[2005]]
|[[Anaheim, California|Anaheim, CA]]
|-
|October Onslaught - ''Night 1''
|[[October 28]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|October Onslaught - ''Night 2''
|[[October 30]], [[2005]]
|[[Playa Del Rey, Los Angeles, California|Playa Del Rey, CA]]
|-
|Halloween Horror
|[[October 31]], [[2005]]
|[[Yucaipa, California|Yucaipa, CA]]
|-
|Bloodlust
|[[November 25]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|-
|Arizona Showdown
|[[November 29]], [[2005]]
|[[Phoenix, Arizona|Phoenix, AZ]]
|-
|Free Ct. St. Square Show
|[[December 10]], [[2005]]
|[[San Bernardino, California|San Bernardino, CA]]
|-
|Holiday Fear
|[[December 23]], [[2005]]
|[[Covina, California|Covina, CA]]
|}
|}


==External Links==
===Ring announcers===
* Jessica Walters — 2005-2006
*[http://www.empirewrestlingfederation.com Empire Wrestling Federation Official Website]
* Mike Aguirre — 2005-2007
*[http://www.obsessedwithwrestling.com/promotions/empire.html Empire Wrestling Federation at OWW]
* Lalo Gonzalez — 2008-2010
* Josh Austin — 2010-2012
* Benjamin Tomas — 2012-2015
* Jake Alexander — 2014–present
* Brian White — 2015–2019
* Jacen Black - 2023 - Present

==See also==
*[[List of National Wrestling Alliance territories]]
*[[List of independent wrestling promotions in the United States]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* 1998 "Secrets of Pro Wrestling" [[Discovery Channel]] documentary that toured EWF facilities
* [http://www.ddtdigest.com/features/hangman/article1.htm Newspaper article on EWF]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20040117091905/http://www.msu.mcmaster.ca/sil/archives/000928/arts/wrestling.htm EWF newspaper article 2]
* [http://www.kptmovies.com/newsandpress/newsandpress_details.cfm?id=39 Nacho Libre presented by EWF and Krikorian Theatres]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070905230716/http://www.pahrumpvalleytimes.com/2001/07/13/2084075.html EWF Newspaper article 3]
* [http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/search/imdb_index.jsp?page=/title/tt0800017/ EWF at HollywoodReporter.com]
* [http://highlandnews.net/articles/2012/03/15/news/schools/doc4f62785d5ec72855946750.txt Throwing down for grades at Thompson]
* [http://www.empirewrestlingfederation.com Empire Wrestling Federation Official Website]
* [http://www.ringscoops.com/radio/empire_live.shtml Empire Wrestling Live Website]{{Dead link|date=August 2019 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}

{{National Wrestling Alliance}}
{{Professional wrestling in the United States}}

[[Category:1996 establishments in California]]
[[Category:Independent professional wrestling promotions based in California]]
[[Category:National Wrestling Alliance members]]

Latest revision as of 07:46, 30 October 2024

Empire Wrestling Federation
AcronymEWF
Founded1996
HeadquartersSouthern California
Founder(s)Bill Anderson and Jesse Hernandez
Owner(s)Jesse Hernandez

The Empire Wrestling Federation (EWF) is an independent wrestling promotion based in Covina, California. It is owned and operated by Jesse Hernandez. The EWF is also tied to Hernandez's wrestling school, The School Of Hard Knocks. The EWF is the longest running promotion in Southern California, running continuously from 1996. The EWF is a former affiliate of the National Wrestling Alliance.

History

[edit]

EWF was founded in 1996 by Bill Anderson and Jesse Hernandez. The promotion's name comes from the Inland Empire, the popular name of the area surrounding San Bernardino.

It saw its first show in May 1996 at the Boys and Girls Club of San Bernardino as Bobby Bradley defeated Tom "Zuma" Howard to become the first EWF Heavyweight Champion. In 1999, Bill Anderson left the EWF and formed his own promotion and wrestling school, the International Wrestling Council in Riverside, California. In June 1996, a tribute to Superstar Billy Graham was held.

Several EWF wrestlers from the past have gone on to national fame, including Rico Constantino, Awesome Kong, Louie Spicolli, Frankie Kazarian, Christopher Daniels, Shelly Martinez and Melina Perez. In 1997, Chris Jericho and Lee Marshall of World Championship Wrestling (WCW) mentioned EWF on WCW broadcasts and Marshall attended a show in Hemet, California. Other pro wrestling stars have made appearance at EWF shows including Mando Guerrero, Peter Maivia, Ludvig Borga, The Honky Tonk Man, Tony Atlas and Tom Brandi. Many EWF wrestlers appear as jobbers on World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) broadcasts, and at the 1999 Royal Rumble the orderlies sent to apprehend Kane were performed by the EWF roster, including then owners Bill Anderson and Jesse Hernandez.

They held their 20th Anniversary Extravaganza at the EWF Arena in Covina, Ca on May 6, 2016.

School of Hard Knocks

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The EWF School of Hard Knocks is owned and operated by Jesse Hernandez and is currently located at the American Sports University, 399 North "D" Street in San Bernardino, CA. The School of Hard Knocks became the Official Training Facility of the National Wrestling Alliance in 2007 and has trained countless students from such countries as Canada, France, Australia, India, Great Britain, Russia, Mexico and others, in addition to those students who come to the school from all regions of the United States. The EWF's School of Hard Knocks has sent several wrestlers to prominent promotions across the globe including Melina, Rico Constantino, Frankie Kazarian, Awesome Kong, Rocky Romero, Ricky Reyes, Alex Koslov and Shelly Martinez. The School of Hard Knocks also has served as the training area for Chris Jericho, Layla, Eve Torres, Rhaka Khan, Lena Yada and others, who looked to brush up on their in-ring skills. The school and some of its students are set to be promoted in the upcoming reality show, "Slam School".

Current champions

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Championship: Current champion(s): Date Won: Won From: Days Location:
EWF Heavyweight Championship Richie Slade April 8, 2023 Anthony Idol 630+ San Bernardino, CA
EWF American Championship Michael Badwolf April 29, 2023 "El Vato Loco" Erick Rojas 609+ Riverside, CA
EWF Tag Team Championship Los Compas (Ray Malvado & Flecha Fugaz) September 23, 2023 Los MexiMachos (Tio Chulo & Tortuga) 462+ San Bernardino, CA

Defunct championships

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The EWF Cruiserweight Championship was introduced in 2004 and was won by Liger Rivera in a 4-Way match. It was defended from 2004 until it was retired in 2011. It had been featured in the EWF's Match of the Year in both 2009 and 2010. Ray Rosas was the last EWF Cruiserweight Champion. Also defunct was the women's championship belt. It has yet to be brought back into the company.

Annual events

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The Empire Wrestling Federation previously held two annual events, the Great Goliath and the Inland Title Tournament. The Great Goliath is a battle royal, held in honor of the wrestler who trained Jesse Hernandez, the EWF's owner and promoter, it has been held during the EWF's Anniversary Extravaganza in May since 2006. The winner is awarded a shot at the EWF Heavyweight Championship.

Great Goliath Battle Royal

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Won By: Year Won: Location: Notes:
Anthony Idol 2022 San Bernardino, CA Used his title shot against J2 Mattioli at Jingle slam 2022 & won.
Anthony Idol & Raunchy Rico 2021 San Bernardino , CA This was for the Vacant EWF Tag Team championship.
Jordan Clearwater 2019 Covina, CA This was for the Vacant EWF American Championship.
The Decapitator 2018 Covina, CA He has yet to schedule his title shot.
Friar Juan Roman 2017 Covina, CA Used his title shot against Fidel Bravo in August of 2017 and lost.
Dr. Krueger 2016 Covina, CA Never received title shot due to injury.
"Baby Bull" Vance Garayt 2015 Covina, CA Used his title shot against the Ironman the following month and lost.
Tyshaun Prince 2014 Covina, CA Used his title shot against the Ironman the following month and lost.
Ironman Mike Maze 2013 Covina, CA Won the vacant EWF Championship
Joey Ryan 2012 Covina, CA Last minute surprise entrant
Josh Dunbar/Shaun Ricker 2011 Covina, CA Both men eliminated each other simultaneously, declared Co-Winners
Chris Kadillak 2010 Covina, CA
Devon Willis 2009 Covina, CA Used his title shot at The Covina Classic, winning the match by countout against then champion, Brandon Gatson. Lost their rematch at Knockdown Dragout 3
Ryan Taylor 2008 Covina, CA Used his title shot at The Covina Classic, losing to then champion, Scorpio Sky.
Dan "The Man" Kobrick 2007 Covina, CA Used his title shot at The Covina Classic, losing to then champion, Joey Harder.
Cincinnati Red 2006 Covina, CA Gave the trophy to Great Goliath's daughter, Paloma, and forfeited his right to a title match.

Inland Title Tournament / Series

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Up until 2014 the EWF held the Inland Title Tournament. Originally conceived as a Round Robin Tournament it was later changed to a traditional single elimination format. The winner each year would receive an EWF Championship title match.

  • 2006: Joey Harder
  • 2007: Brandon Gatson
  • 2008: Matt & Nick Jackson
  • 2009: SoCal Crazy
  • 2010: Tommy Wilson
  • 2011: Jeremy Jaeger
  • 2012: Sugar Sweet
  • 2013: N/A No tournament was held.
  • 2014: RJ Ruiz

Charity events

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The Empire Wrestling Federation is always giving back to the communities it runs in. On March 10, 2012, the EWF put on a show for the students of Thompson Elementary School in Highland, CA. "Honestly, I see this as a way to keep the families engaged and involved," said Principal Funchess, adding, “This is just a great opportunity for Thompson families to come enjoy a positive event here at the school while supporting academic achievement.”[1]

In 2016 The Empire Wrestling Federation held an event at the Fox Theatre in San Bernardino to benefit victims of the 2015 San Bernardino Attack.[2]

Hall of Fame

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In 2016, EWF announced its first hall of Fame inductees, who were inducted in its 20th anniversary show in Covina California. The first Inductees were:

  • Melina Perez — Former EWF women's wrestler, and former three-time WWE Women's Champion and two-time WWE Divas Champion. She is also the first woman in WWE history to have held both titles on more than one occasion.[3]
  • Bobby Bradley — The first EWF world champion who held the title three times.[4]
  • Frankie Kazarian — Former EWF world and Tag Team champion who is most famous for wrestling for Total Nonstop Action Wrestling where he was Five time TNA X-Division and three time TNA Tag team champion. He has held Ring Of Honor tag team championship once with Christopher Daniels and wrestled briefly in WWE.[5]

The 2017 class included:

  • Vizzon — three-time EWF World Champion and three Time America Champion despite being legally blind.
  • Awesome Kong — Former EWF women's wrestler, Former two time TNA Knockouts Champion, Knockouts tag team Champion, NWA World Women's Champion, WWWA world Women's Champion, and AWA Superstars of Wrestling Women's Champion as well as WWE Diva under the name of Karma. She was Pro Wrestling Illustrated's Woman of the Year in 2008
  • Jeff Walton — long time wrestling promoter and manager

Class of 2018 will be:

  • Los Chivos — Four time EWF world tag team Champions

Staff

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Officials

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Referees

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  • Senior Official: Nick Lira
  • Justin Borden
  • Christopher Lee

Commentators

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Commentators: Dates:
"Mr. Wonderful" Rock Riddle and Bryan White July 2016 – Present
"Webmaster" Wade Needham and "The Expert" Matt Sinister October 14, 2011 – July 2016
Kelli Lee and "The Expert" Matt Sinister July 2, 2011 – October 14, 2011
Lalo Gonzalez, Kelli Lee, and "The Expert" Matt Sinister June 5, 2011 – July 2, 2011
Lalo Gonzalez and Kelli Lee N/A – July 2, 2011
Lalo Gonzalez and Larry Pena 2008-2011
Mike Aguirre, Larry Pena, Mad Macintosh, and Lalo Gonzalez 2008
Mike Aguirre, Larry Pena, and Mad Macintosh 2007-2008

Ring announcers

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  • Jessica Walters — 2005-2006
  • Mike Aguirre — 2005-2007
  • Lalo Gonzalez — 2008-2010
  • Josh Austin — 2010-2012
  • Benjamin Tomas — 2012-2015
  • Jake Alexander — 2014–present
  • Brian White — 2015–2019
  • Jacen Black - 2023 - Present

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Throwing down for grades at Thompson".
  2. ^ "San Bernardino charity wrestling event scheduled for this Friday". 11 April 2016.
  3. ^ "A Look at the EWF Hall of Fame's Inaugural Class". 28 April 2016.
  4. ^ "A Look at the EWF Hall of Fame's Inaugural Class". 28 April 2016.
  5. ^ "A Look at the EWF Hall of Fame's Inaugural Class". 28 April 2016.
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