Swindon to host major wrestling contest

The headline bout is a retirement stipulation title match pitting local hero Saime Sahin against champion Chris Bronson.
Doors for Kingdom Rising 2026 open at 5.30pm, with the first bell at 6pm. 
The South West's longest-running independent wrestling promotion celebrates its 22nd anniversary with what may prove to be the most personally significant match in the promotion's history.
In a dramatic development ahead of the event, BKPW Heavyweight Champion 'The Stallion' Chris Bronson, hailing from Bristol, has agreed to grant Swindon favourite 'Silverback' Saime Sahin one final shot at the title. 
However, there is a brutal stipulation attached: if Sahin fails to win the championship, he must retire from professional wrestling for good.
Bronson said: "I'm sick of giving title shot after title shot and getting nothing back," Bronson said. "I've heard Saime wants to spend more time with his family. Well, I'm going to help him do just that.
“I feel for Swindon, I really do. Two terrible weekends on the trot, first the football, now this. 
"At least with the football they can console themselves that there's always next season. Saime won't have that luxury."
For Swindon fans, the stakes could hardly be higher. Saime Sahin learned to wrestle in the town at a young age and has been a cornerstone of BKPW ever since. 
The two have crossed paths in the ring on multiple occasions before, and while Bronson has come out on top, this will be the first time Sahin's entire career hangs in the balance.
Alongside the title match is The Brian Kendrick, a 25-year professional wrestling veteran and former WWE Cruiserweight Champion who has competed across the United States, Europe and Japan. 
He faces Chris Ridgeway, one of the most internationally respected British wrestlers working today and a regular on the European and Japanese independent circuit.
It is the kind of match-up that would normally require a trip to Tokyo, brought instead to an intimate 400-seat theatre in Wiltshire.
The full card for Kingdom Rising 2026 also features:
• Leyton Buzzard vs 'The Man with a Black Heart of Gold' Nico Angelo
• Tiger Ali vs Charlie Sterling
• Kouga vs 'The English Lion' Eddie Ryan
Founded in Swindon as 4 Front Wrestling, BKPW has built its reputation over 22 years on two things: spotting and showcasing future global stars before they reach the world stage, and bringing established international names to audiences who would not normally see them
outside a major arena. 
Over the years, the promotion has featured the likes of Rey Mysterio, Kenny Omega and Pénta.
BKPW events are known across the South West for high production values and a live atmosphere the promotion has spent two decades crafting. 
The Deanery Theatre venue includes free parking, a fully licensed bar, merchandise stands, and in-ring photo opportunities with the wrestlers.
British Kingdom Pro Wrestling Promoter Dave Sharp said: "We've always believed fans in Swindon deserve access to the very best wrestling in the world. 
"Over 22 years we've watched wrestlers go from performing for us in intimate venues to becoming internationally recognised stars. 
"We're proud that BKPW has continued to evolve while staying rooted in the community that built us.
“I’m probably speaking out of turn, but I’m terrified about Saturday. Saime is the model pro wrestler that has come up training from a kid to being an ideal role model for our students today. 
"I fear Chris Bronson has played into his pride here, knowing he will never back down.
"It’s hard to imagine a Brit King Pro Wrestling without Saime.”
Tickets are priced at: 
- Gold Front Row (including Meet and Greet): £20
- Silver Second Row (including Meet and Greet): £17.50
- Adults' General Admission: £15
- Kids General Admission: £10
Family, group and birthday party packages are also available.
Tickets are available at britishkingdompro.com/swindon-events
 

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