The Ring's Reckoning
Exploring the persona, progression, and championships of Michael DePoli, the 'Angry Amish Warrior'.
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Biographical Overview
Michael DePoli
Michael DePoli, born August 10, 1976, is a retired American professional wrestler. He is primarily recognized for his impactful tenure in Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) under the moniker "Roadkill." His distinctive character, rooted in traditional Amish attire and billed from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, set him apart in the professional wrestling landscape.
Physical Attributes
Standing at 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm) and weighing approximately 323 pounds (147 kg), DePoli possessed a formidable physical presence that contributed to his in-ring persona and effectiveness.
Training and Debut
DePoli's professional wrestling training was undertaken under the tutelage of notable figures such as Tazz and Perry Saturn at the House of Hardcore. He made his professional debut in 1996, marking the beginning of his career in the squared circle.
Career Trajectory
Extreme Championship Wrestling (1996–2001)
Roadkill's formative years in professional wrestling were spent in Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW). He debuted in 1996 and quickly became a notable figure. In December 1997, he formed a significant tag team with Danny Doring, initially managed by Miss Congeniality and later by Elektra. This partnership led to a memorable feud with Nova and Chris Chetti, and later with other prominent ECW tag teams. Their most significant achievement was capturing the ECW World Tag Team Championship on December 3, 2000, at Massacre on 34th Street, holding the titles until ECW's bankruptcy in April 2001, making them the final champions.
Independent Circuit (2001–2005)
Following ECW's closure, Roadkill and Doring participated in dark matches for World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and appeared in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) in early 2002. Roadkill also made a significant impact in Pro-Pain Pro Wrestling (3PW), culminating in his victory for the 3PW World Heavyweight Championship on May 21, 2005, in a Triple Threat Match.
World Wrestling Entertainment (2005–2008)
Roadkill signed with WWE in 2006 and was assigned to Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW). There, he achieved success, winning the OVW Southern Tag Team Championship with Kasey James. He made appearances on WWE's main roster under various ring names, including "Antoni Polaski" and "Braddock," participating in matches on shows like Raw, SmackDown, and ECW. After his release from WWE in February 2008, DePoli largely retired from professional wrestling.
The 'Angry Amish Warrior' Persona
Character Genesis
Roadkill's most enduring character was that of an Amish wrestler from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. This unique gimmick, often accompanied by nicknames such as "The Angry Amish Warrior" and "The Killmeister," provided a stark contrast to the typical personas in professional wrestling. His entrance theme in ECW was "Super Bon Bon" by Soul Coughing.
In-Ring Presentation
The persona blended traditional Amish dress with an aggressive wrestling style, creating a memorable and often humorous spectacle. This distinct character allowed him to stand out and connect with audiences in ECW and beyond, showcasing a creative approach to character development within the sport.
Championships & Accomplishments
Major Titles Held
Throughout his career, Michael DePoli, primarily as Roadkill, secured several significant championships across different promotions, underscoring his impact on the tag team and singles divisions.
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Important Notice Regarding Content
This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, synthesizing information from publicly available sources, primarily Wikipedia. It is intended strictly for educational and informational purposes. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness based on the provided source material, the content may not be exhaustive, entirely up-to-date, or free from minor inaccuracies.
This is not professional wrestling advice. The information presented here should not be construed as professional guidance for aspiring wrestlers, promoters, or any individuals involved in the professional wrestling industry. It is essential to consult with experienced professionals and official sources for any practical application or decision-making.
The creators of this content are not liable for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this information. Readers are encouraged to consult primary sources and seek expert advice when necessary.