Don West

In a city where deep-dish pizza and Wrigley Field are the ultimate symbols of Chicago pride, Don West is an underdog worth cheering for. This 5'9" bundle of energy and determination has been body-slamming his way through the wrestling world since the early 90s.

Weighing in at a whopping 279 pounds, West may not be the leanest wrestler out there, but he's got heart – and a whole lot of it. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, West learned to fight from an early age. "I was always the scrappy kid who didn't take no for an answer," he says with a chuckle.

As a young wrestler, West carved out a niche for himself in the rough-and-tumble world of independent promotions. He honed his craft on the mean streets of Chicago, taking on all comers and proving himself to be a force to be reckoned with. Who knew that this unassuming Everyman would become a beloved fixture on the local wrestling scene?

West's big break came when he joined forces with fellow Chicagoan, "Wild" Bill Pierce. Together, they formed an unstoppable tag-team duo known for their high-flying moves and no-holds-barred brawling style. The crowds went wild whenever West and Pierce stepped into the ring, and it wasn't long before they became the toast of the town.

But West's greatest achievement came when he won the prestigious Windy City Wrestling Championship – a title that cemented his status as Chicago's top wrestling export. "It was like winning the lottery," he beams. "I mean, I'd been working towards this moment for years... and to finally have it in my grasp? It was pure elation."

Nowadays, West can be found on the indie circuit, still going strong at 40-something (he's a bit too proud to reveal his exact age). Though he may not be as spry as he once was, he's got the wisdom of experience and the will of a warrior. And when he steps into that ring, you can bet your bottom dollar he'll give it his all – just like he always has.

So if you're ever in Chicago and looking for a wrestling fix, track down Don West. You won't be disappointed. This Chicago boy done right is ready to rumble!