Wrestling event returning to Norwalk

NORWALK — The in-ring storylines place a focus on them feuding with one another. But all participants in an upcoming professional wrestling spectacle formed a behind-the-scenes faction to raise the proverbial arm of an important cause. The Olde Wrestling Extravaganza returns to the Huron County Fairgrounds this weekend. In its eighth year, the first bell rings at 2:30 p.m. Sunday within the Huron County Fairgrounds property in Norwalk. Attendees can expect "vintage wrestling with characters plucked right out of the Roaring '20s," according to an event statement. "The whole family can join in the fun because our old-fashioned entertainment is an all-ages show, and we encourage families to attend." Proceeds raised from the event, such as through admission, will benefit the Norwalk Area United Fund. To date, the event has raised more than $3,700 for this nonprofit, which connects people with needed resources in crisis situations. "We want to give back to show our appreciation for how the community has welcomed the show," event organizer Justin Nottke said. "And, we often heard last year from people who make the trip from out of state or even nearby, that they were upset that there couldn't be a show last year," added Nottke, a 2004 Bellevue High School graduate, referencing COVID-19-related restrictions. "So that gave us all the more reason to make sure we bring the event back to Norwalk." Nottke booked yet another star-studded card to take part in this year's show. Some wrestlers previously participating in the event have competed for WWE and other reputable promotions. "Over the years, we've been able to show the local community that pro wrestling is a performance art," said Nottke, a semi-professional wrestler himself who goes under the ring name Marion Fontaine. "It's much more than hitting people with chairs: It's about creating an experience for people," he said. "And we try to turn back the clock to the 1920s so people feel like they are in Roaring '20s. All the characters are based in the 1920s. So bare-knuckle pugilists, moonshiners, gangsters, strongmen and more." Nottke provided this preview: "Imagine if Barnum and Bailey mixed with Al Capone, Elliot Ness and Oliver and Hardy. Top it off with somebody slams and live ragtime music, and that's the Olde Wrestling Extravaganza."