The year 2002 marked a turning point in the landscape of independent professional wrestling when XPW (Xtreme Pro Wrestling) presented its infamous event, ‘Hostile Takeover.’ Held at the Grand Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles, California, the show epitomized XPW’s rebellious spirit and hardcore philosophy. Known for pushing the boundaries of wrestling entertainment, XPW aimed to deliver a unique product that rivaled the more mainstream promotions of the time. With its intense storylines, bloody feuds, and controversial matches, Hostile Takeover 2002 has since become a cult classic among wrestling fans who admire extreme wrestling in its rawest form.
Background and Build-Up
XPW’s Rise in the Independent Scene
XPW emerged in the late 1990s as a response to the growing appetite for hardcore wrestling that ECW had popularized. Rob Black, the promotion’s owner, envisioned XPW as an unfiltered, uncensored alternative to the more polished offerings from WWE and WCW. With a roster featuring underground legends and rising stars, XPW events attracted a loyal following. By 2002, the company had built a reputation for shock value, brutal matches, and unpredictability, culminating in the anticipation for Hostile Takeover.
Feuds Leading to the Event
Several storylines were simmering in XPW leading up to Hostile Takeover 2002. The main event spotlighted the escalating feud between Shane Douglas and Chris Candido. Longtime rivals from their ECW days, their conflict in XPW was fueled by betrayal, ego, and a desire for championship gold. The event was also shaped by the power struggle within XPW, as new factions formed and rivalries deepened, aligning perfectly with the hostile takeover theme.
Main Matches and Highlights
Shane Douglas vs. Chris Candido
The main event delivered exactly what fans expected a gritty, emotionally charged contest filled with violence and psychology. Shane Douglas, also known as ‘The Franchise,’ represented the old-school hardcore wrestling ethos, while Chris Candido brought technical prowess and a chip on his shoulder. Their clash was brutal, drawing on their shared history and personal animosity. Weapons were used liberally, and interference added chaos, enhancing the drama and unpredictability.
Supreme vs. Vic Grimes – Deathmatch Spectacle
One of the standout moments of the night was the deathmatch between Supreme and Vic Grimes. Known for their fearless and often reckless in-ring style, both men pushed their bodies to the limit. Barbed wire, glass panes, and flaming tables made this contest a visual spectacle and a testament to XPW’s willingness to cross lines in the name of entertainment. Fans of the hardcore genre still cite this match as one of the most extreme battles ever witnessed in the promotion.
XPW World Title Defense
Sabu, the reigning XPW World Champion at the time, was also featured on the card. His high-flying, risk-taking style added an extra layer of excitement. Although he did not face an A-list opponent by mainstream standards, the match delivered intensity, agility, and crowd-pleasing moments. Sabu’s ability to blend innovation with hardcore violence helped keep XPW’s title picture interesting.
Atmosphere and Crowd Reaction
The Grand Olympic Auditorium
The choice of venue played a significant role in shaping the identity of Hostile Takeover 2002. The Grand Olympic Auditorium, with its rich wrestling history, was filled with passionate fans who understood what XPW stood for. The crowd was vocal, responsive, and fully invested in the action, contributing to the high-octane environment that defined the event.
Fan Engagement
XPW’s fans were unlike any other. They embraced the blood, violence, and crude storytelling with enthusiasm. During Hostile Takeover, chants echoed through the auditorium as fans rallied behind their favorite antiheroes. The energy in the building was palpable, proving that XPW had succeeded in carving out its niche within the broader wrestling world.
Controversies and Criticism
Violence and Safety Concerns
XPW often walked a fine line between entertainment and excessive violence. Hostile Takeover 2002 was no exception. Critics argued that the event glorified dangerous stunts and disregarded wrestler safety. Several spots during the matches raised eyebrows due to the real risk of injury. While fans of the genre celebrated the chaos, others questioned the ethics behind such performances.
Production Quality
Compared to mainstream promotions, XPW’s production values lagged behind. Lighting, camera angles, and commentary were often inconsistent. However, for many fans, this lack of polish was part of XPW’s charm. It added to the raw, underground feel that distinguished the company from slicker competitors.
Legacy of Hostile Takeover 2002
A Turning Point for XPW
Hostile Takeover was one of XPW’s final high-profile shows before the company began to decline. Financial issues, internal disputes, and increased scrutiny made it difficult for the promotion to maintain momentum. Nevertheless, the event solidified XPW’s legacy as a boundary-pushing force in independent wrestling.
Influence on Future Promotions
The impact of XPW, and events like Hostile Takeover, can be seen in the evolution of modern hardcore and deathmatch wrestling. Promotions such as GCW (Game Changer Wrestling) have borrowed elements from XPW’s style, incorporating high-risk spots, no-holds-barred storytelling, and a strong connection with underground wrestling culture.
Cult Status Among Wrestling Fans
Years after its original airing, Hostile Takeover 2002 continues to be discussed in online forums, documentaries, and fan circles. Its mix of drama, violence, and raw energy appeals to those who appreciate wrestling’s more extreme side. For collectors and historians of the genre, the event represents a snapshot of an era when indie wrestling dared to be different.
XPW Hostile Takeover 2002 may not have reached the mainstream success of WWE or WCW, but it left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling. Through its controversial matches, wild storytelling, and unapologetic identity, it attracted a devoted following and challenged the norms of what wrestling could be. For fans of extreme wrestling, the event remains a defining chapter in the history of hardcore entertainment. Whether you watched it live or discovered it years later, Hostile Takeover offers a reminder of a time when independent wrestling was loud, fearless, and unforgettable.