Riot City Wrestling (RCW)

[4.0] "I first started following Riot City Wrestling years ago, and over that time I've watched the promotion go through different eras, rosters, and changes. Unfortunately, instead of seeing RCW continue to grow into one of Australia's best wrestling companies, I've watched it become a promotion that feels increasingly stuck. The production and presentation feel like they have barely progressed in years. For a promotion with RCW's history and reputation, the product often feels dated, lacking the polish and ambition you'd expect from a company trying to be one of the leaders of Australian wrestling. The creative direction is where RCW struggles the most. Storylines frequently start with promise but fail to deliver a satisfying payoff, with angles and character developments seemingly abandoned without explanation. That's to say when there is a direction with a storyline, too often, matches feel like they are happening simply because two wrestlers are available rather than because there is a meaningful story or reason behind them. Beyond the product itself, my biggest issue with RCW comes from the culture surrounding the promotion. There is also a perception among some people involved in the scene that the training environment can be overly critical in ways that are not constructive. Feedback and high standards are important in professional wrestling, but there is a big difference between pushing people to improve and making people feel discouraged or unwelcome. A wrestling school and promotion should be a place where people can develop their skills, build confidence, and feel supported. When the culture becomes intimidating or overly focused on fitting a certain image, it can push talented people away. These issues are especially disappointing because Australian wrestling is built on community. The talent and passion exist, but the environment surrounding them plays a huge role in whether people feel encouraged to stay and contribute."

[10.0] "RCW is easily the best wrestling promotion in South Australia and, for me, one of the top companies in Australia alongside MCW and PWA. I've been to quite a few RCW shows whenever I'm in Adelaide for work, and I've always had a good time. Their production is really solid and makes the whole show feel professional. Whether it's one of their main shows or a Mean Street Mayhem event, the wrestling is always entertaining. I also like that RCW has its own style that feels a bit different from other Australian promotions, which makes their shows stand out. Lately they've been bringing in more interstate talent, and I think that's been a great move. It mixes things up and gives fans some fresh matchups while still showcasing the local roster. RCW has also done a great job of developing talent over the years. Having names like Rhea Ripley and Zaria come through the school says a lot. If I had one complaint, it'd probably be the commentary. I think it could be a bit stronger and add more to the matches, but it's not a huge issue because the wrestling itself is consistently good enough that it keeps you invested anyway."

[10.0] "The former home promotion of current WWE stars Rhea Ripley and Zaria, RCW has continued to elevate the standard of Australian professional wrestling, both from the quality of shows and the standard of wrestlers coming out of the RCW Academy for the last two decades. Shows are free on YouTube and are filmed and edited to an exceptional standard. With the more recent return of the "Mean Street Mayhem" shows, I hope to see more of the younger talent break out and establish themselves around the country and abroad. Unfairly kept out of Australia's big three (EPW, MCW, PWA). I would argue that RCW is part of Australia's big four."

[10.0] "I'm possibly ignorant to its flaws because I have such fond memories of it. Indeed, I wish it would take itself more seriously, sometimes. But when it works, cor does it work. Unfairly kept out of Australia's big three (I like PWA, but let's get real)."

[8.0] "My favorite Australian promotion. They have a lot of good talent and train a lot of good talent. A lot of standouts that they have and their future looks very bright due to how well their roster are as trainers. They really put on quality events."

[10.0] "The premier wrestling promotion in the city of Adelaide in South Australia. As opposed to a more traditional indy-style of booking, Riot City features a more weekly television-styled booking, featuring a familiar, beloved cast of players who have developed and evolved over the years. They've given the world Zaria, Rhea Ripley, and have featured Indi Hartwell in the past prominently despite her being interstate. Shows are free on YouTube and neatly organised. For me personally, I would say start at Powertrip 2023 for the start of Zaria's generational main event run and work from there. Recommended for fans of Shawn Michaels' current era of NXT and Dragon Gate, you'll get a similar fix of character development, new talent rapidly improving before your very eyes show after show balanced out with the legendary vets, and some good ol' faction warfare (at the moment)."

"it is a very good and consistent wrestling company still having leaders like basso brothers and havok with all time faves like hayter and party power also with new talents like scorch and katioa. very excited for the future. [10/10]"

[10.0] "One of Australia's best promotions. From talent like Chris Basso, Grimm, Matt Hayter, DELTA and many more, RCW consistently put on incredible shows with high production value and a consistent strong quality of matches. If you're sleeping on RCW or haven't check it out go onto their YouTube and give their past events a watch. You won't regret it."

[10.0] "RCW is up there with the best promotions in Australia, it has some major talent that has gone on to become big names in wrestling and looks to be producing more now! I would highly recommend coming to a Riot City Wrestling show, they put on some truly great matches and have some great stories. I think it deserves to be recognized as one of Australia's top promotions with EPW, MCW, and PWA!"

[8.0] "Truly a hidden gem in the Australian wrestling scene. Not on the level of the big three (EPW, MCW, PWA) but could reach that status with it's current momentum."

[10.0] "A real hidden gem right now. Have only been following this promotion for about a year, but have quickly become one of my favourites. They have great talent, and put on some truly amazing cards. Just wish they'd have more shows (or a weekly one)."

[10.0] "The best promotion in Australia. Adelaide's top promotion offers its viewers awesome stories, constant interstate bookings and "big match" main events. Among the best indy promotions in the world."