Big Damo Interview: MLW Growth, PROGRESS Wrestling, and Tubi Debut
- Professional wrestler Big Damo, real name Damian Mackle, recently discussed his current tenure with Major League Wrestling (MLW) and his co-ownership of the United Kingdom-based promotion PROGRESS Wrestling.
- Big Damo stated that his entry into MLW was initially delayed by a shoulder injury he sustained early in 2026.
- The wrestler lauded MLW’s deal to broadcast its flagship program, MLW Fusion, on the free streaming service Tubi every Thursday.
Professional wrestler Big Damo, real name Damian Mackle, recently discussed his current tenure with Major League Wrestling (MLW) and his co-ownership of the United Kingdom-based promotion PROGRESS Wrestling. In an October 6, 2026, interview on the Wrestling Epicenter podcast, the veteran performer detailed his transition into MLW, the growth of the promotion’s television footprint on Tubi, and his broader outlook on the European independent wrestling scene.
Shoulder Injury Delayed Big Damo Entry into MLW
Big Damo stated that his entry into MLW was initially delayed by a shoulder injury he sustained early in 2026. According to the wrestler, the promotion maintained interest in his services during his recovery, a move he described as demonstrating significant loyalty toward its talent. Since returning to action, he has integrated into a roster that he characterizes as wildly diverse, citing MLW’s collaborative efforts with international organizations including CMLL, New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and Stardom. He also noted that the promotion features a wealth of experience, with many roster members having previously performed for every major television wrestling company globally.
Expansion of MLW Fusion on Tubi
The wrestler lauded MLW’s deal to broadcast its flagship program, MLW Fusion, on the free streaming service Tubi every Thursday. Damo noted that the platform’s accessibility allows fans to view professional wrestling without the financial burden of subscription-based cable or streaming packages. He highlighted the production quality and the depth of the current roster, pointing to upcoming matchups on the service, including his own bout against longtime rival Wolfgang. The two have competed against one another roughly 30 to 40 times globally since their first encounter in 2004, according to the interview.
Touring and In-Ring Rivalries
Damo discussed the logistical experience of working for the promotion, noting that he has traveled to various markets including Philadelphia, the Carolinas, Chicago, Atlanta, and New York. He reflected on the unique opportunity to revisit these cities, noting that he now takes more time to appreciate his surroundings than he did during his earlier career stints in NXT and WWE. Regarding his in-ring work, Damo highlighted a recent feud with Mads Krule Krugger, a former member of the Contra Unit faction. Mads was very interesting, but we had to make a statement,
Damo said, noting that as an aggressive big man,
he was well-suited for the confrontation.
Management of PROGRESS Wrestling and European Indie Trends
Beyond his in-ring duties, Damo confirmed he co-owns PROGRESS Wrestling alongside his wife, Nikki Cross, also known as Nikki Storm. He also operates a family-run promotion in Scotland. Reflecting on how UK and European wrestling has evolved, Damo observed a resurgence in independent activity. He noted that while the 2010s saw a bubble of rapid expansion for British promotions like ICW and PROGRESS, the current market is showing renewed growth, specifically in countries such as France and Italy. He attributed this development to a new generation of talent that is gaining experience more quickly by competing against veteran performers who have returned to the independent circuit after stints in major televised companies.
Professional Development for Younger Talent
Addressing the mentorship of developing athletes, Damo compared the process to his own experience running a training school in the late 2000s and early 2010s. He noted that while he provides the same foundational advice to all trainees, the ability to implement that knowledge varies based on the individual’s personal circumstances. He emphasized that he continues to offer guidance to talent who seek his input, noting that the most successful wrestlers are those who can effectively synthesize and apply the experience of their predecessors. Damo currently works with a group of approximately 50 trainees.