Background: Shortly after his release from WWE, Fit Finlay hit the independent scene to test his abilities against a new crop of talent. One most respected independent wrestlers at the time was a man known as Kevin Steen – the Pro Wrestling Guerrilla Heavyweight champion. The two technical brawlers found themselves facing off in the opening round of the company’s annual “Battle of Los Angeles” tournament.
Battle of Los Angeles
Reseda, CA
August 20, 2011
Kevin Steen vs. Fit Finlay
Finlay proved early that he isn’t one to be pushed around, elbowing Steen on the nose off a hammerlock. Finlay did it again by breaking down Steen’s base. Big shoulder tackle exchange ended with Steen slapping Fit, and Finlay drop toe holding Steen so he could stomp on the champ’s fingers. When they locked up again, Steen bit at Fit to keep him grounded in the side headlock. Unfortunately, Finlay got up, knocking Steen to the floor. They were brawling around ringside, with Steen actually sending Fit in retreat. Finlay caught Steen coming into the ring, only for “Mr. Wrestling” to kick Fit rather low.
Finlay paid Steen back seconds later, using the ref as a distraction to blindside Steen. Things like stomping Steen’s hands and poking his eyes weren’t below Fit as he dominated the champion. Finlay pitched Steen to the floor, feigning a dive. This proved detrimental for Fit as Steen tripped him on the apron, slamming Finlay’s left leg against the steel ring post. Steen wanted to work over both legs of his opponent. Somersault leg drop by Steen landed perfectly across Finlay’s left leg. Steen’s unorthodox offense of Fit’s leg included biting Finlay’s kneecap.
The multi-time WCW and WWE champion manned up after taking several insults added to the injury of his leg, dropping the champ with several elbows. Big whoop by Finlay gained him a two count. The champ countered the incoming Finlay with the lung blower to set up his cannonball for a two count. Steen went for the Swanton, only for Finlay to get his knees up. Sadly, this took a lot out of Finlay. Fit lost his attempt at the Celtic Cross, climbing to the middle rope after kicking Steen backwards. The champ yanked Finlay to the mat, locking in the Sharpshooter. Finlay had no choice by to tap out.
Winner: Kevin Steen (14:54)
Is It A Classic: Just a strong style bout featuring two men beating the snot out of each other and seeing just how far they could bend the rules while attempting to break their opponent. Though it might not go down as a classic, to essentially kick off a one-night tournament in such a manner is remarkable and a match well worth your time.
