In a shocking turn of events, Jeff Cobb captured the top championship in Filipino Pro Wrestling in his first match back in the Philippines.
At FPW’s October 20th Astig show, NJPW‘s Jeff Cobb headlined the show against then FPW Champion Mike Madrigal for the latter’s title. The defending champion came into the match determined to prolong his historic reign that surpassed 500 days. On the other hand, Jeff Cobb came in with extra fire after losing his NJPW World Television Championship to Ren Narita just six days before the event.
Both men showcased their respective powerhouse arsenal in the match, with Jeff Cobb mixing in his strength and athleticism to execute a standing moonsault on Mike Madrigal. The match also saw interference from local Filipino wrestler Thiago and FPW President Red Ollero, but Jeff prevented further assault on Madrigal as he disagreed with their underhanded tactics. He then took out both men to once again even the playing field.
In spite of the chaos, Jeff Cobb got the upper hand and delivered a devastating lariat that nearly knocked the champion out. Upon following up with his signature “Tour of the Islands”, Jeff would then secure the victory and become only the second FPW Champion in history.
Jeff Cobb’s post-match comments
Following the match, the new champion addressed the crowd and the interference during the bout.
“See, I didn’t come to the Philippines, the motherland, to win like that [with interference], no. You [Mike Madrigal] have held this championship for 500-plus days, right? Now your back must be heavy and hurting from keeping Filipino Pro Wrestling,” he said.
Jeff Cobb then asked the former champion to let him hold onto the belt for the time being.
“Now if I can carry this championship with much honor and prestige as you, then hell! Where will this FPW Championship go, huh? Tokyo Dome? Maybe I’ll defend this s** ** * b**** at Wrestle Kingdom? So, all I have to say, first and foremost, is thank you for carrying this [belt],” Cobb said.
As the new FPW Champion, Jeff Cobb is expected to be back in the Philippines in the coming year to defend the title as often as possible.
