Adam Copeland had a significant opportunity on Saturday during Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling’s (MLP) event, Northern Rising, held at Toronto’s historic venue, Maple Leaf Gardens. Copeland had long expressed his wish to perform at this iconic location, having watched his first professional wrestling match there in his youth. During his WWE tenure, such a chance did not arise as WWE opted for larger arenas.
MLP and All Elite Wrestling (AEW) provided Copeland the stage with an MLP ring debut. His competitor was Steve Maclin, recognized as a top free agent in the pro wrestling circuit. Maclin, ex-U.S. Marine, aggressively sought this matchup, even ambushing Copeland on AEW’s ‘Dynamite’ ahead of the event. At Northern Rising, any escape was impossible.
Copeland and Maclin clashed fiercely in a street fight. Despite being 52, Copeland performed breathtaking stunts that highlighted his legendary status. He executed a suplex off the ring apron onto a ladder, and delivered a top turnbuckle splash, sending Maclin through a table. Maclin also performed strongly, suplexing Copeland onto a ladder.
Many electrifying moments occurred, including interference by Maclin’s wife, Deonna Purrazzo, and a counterattack from wrestling great Rhino, who neutralized Maclin and Purrazzo. Copeland regained control, spectacularly spearing Maclin through the ropes and eventually securing victory with a decisive spear.
After the match, Copeland praised Maclin and reflected on how special it was to perform at Maple Leaf Gardens. He addressed a crowd that witnessed this memorable contest.
Conflict for the Undisputed MLP Canadian Championship
Josh Alexander and Stu Grayson competed for the Undisputed MLP Canadian Championship before Copeland’s bout. Grayson held the interim title while Alexander claimed the championship after being sidelined by injury, without ever losing the title. Their anticipated matchup was intense.
Alexander aimed to avoid Grayson’s major moves, seizing opportunities to turn the match’s momentum. In an acrobatic exchange, Grayson attempted a comeback but did not secure the pin. Late in the match, Don Callis aided Alexander with a screwdriver. Although the referee obstructed Callis, Alexander managed to discreetly use the tool, and eventually overcome Grayson with two C4 piledrivers, clinching the win.
Women and National Champions Retain Titles
The event showcased two additional singles championship matches. Priscilla Kelly defended her MLP Canadian Women’s Championship against Nikki Storm. Kelly dominated the encounter, her pointed strikes leaving Storm with no options. Kelly retained her title, marking over 55 days as the champion since claiming the belt in September against Gisele Shaw.
Andrade El Idolo sought to maintain the AEW National Championship in a match against Rohan Raja. Known as one of the top professional wrestlers, Andrade encountered a substantial challenge from Raja. The match featured strong exchanges, with Andrade ultimately displaying his prowess and securing victory. Andrade’s show of sportsmanship in shaking Raja’s hand indicated respect for Raja’s efforts.
New Tag Team Champions Crowned
The tag team championship featured Grizzled Young Veterans, 1st Faction, and Sinner & Saints. Brent Banks and Sheldon Jean of 1st Faction put their MLP Canadian Tag Team titles on the line. From the outset, James Drake and Zack Gibson of Grizzled Young Veterans displayed confidence and power, prevailing over their competitors. A strategic distraction helped them secure the victory, ending 1st Faction’s 191-day reign.
Additional Results from Northern Rising
- Jonathan Gresham defeated Tarik and Vaughn Vertigo.
- Rudra overcame Jonny DeLuca.
- Luigi Primo, El Reverso, and Mo Jabari triumphed over Johnny Parisi, Gama Singh Jr., and Michael Allen Richard Clark.
- Máscara Dorada and Subculture defeated TJP, Johnny TV, and Gabriel Fuerza.
- Alice Crowley and Jody Threat defeated Kinsley and Alexia Nicole.
- Psycho Mike defeated Dan Maff and Crazzy Steve.
The event concluded with various competitive matches, leaving wrestling enthusiasts with enduring memories of Northern Rising.