Lee Moriarty became the new IWTV Independent Wrestling Champion at New South HOSS Tournament night two on March 6. Moriarty defeated Warhorse, ending his reign at 532 days.
Moriarty is considered one of the top independent wrestlers in the world and had his breakout weekend at GCW The Collective in October.
Speaking to Sports Illustrated, Moriarty discussed comparisons to Daniel Bryan and his evolving style in the ring.
“Over the past year, I’ve been compared to Bryan Danielson a lot,” Moriarty said. “It’s such a humbling comparison and not one that I would expect. While he was on the independents, that was his focus–becoming the best. He wasn’t racing to sign a contract. If a contract comes my way, that’s one thing, but my focus is on what happens in the ring. Independent wrestling, this is the foundation of professional wrestling. You’re watching a painting being created in real-time. This is so important, and my focus is on becoming the best independent wrestler and helping this part of professional wrestling grow. I always want to keep evolving. I don’t like the idea of being stagnant or complacent, especially as an artist. My mind is never settled with what I’m creating. I don’t want someone to see the same picture when they’re watching my matches. I think of wrestling as a sport and an art, and I want to continue to push and reach new levels.”
Moriarty is set for a busy week at GCW The Collective Remix during WrestleMania week as he'll compete in GCW's Acid Cup and face Lio Rush at GCW For The Culture.
If you missed anything from the New South HOSS Tournament, check out full results and highlights by clicking here.
