A FORMER Bradford Bulls Academy ace has targeted winning a future wrestling title after missing out on a championship chance in his debut match.

Luke Menzies, who wrestles under the character name Ridge Holland, missed out on a future North American Championship match in his bow for World Wrestling Entertainment’s (WWE’s) NXT promotion.

He lost out in a triple threat bout, where all three wrestlers compete in the ring at the same time, against Oney Lorcan and match winner Damian Priest.

Despite the defeat, Menzies says he enjoyed the experience of his debut, and now has lofty ambitions for his time in the promotion.

The NXT promotion often proves to be a springboard to becoming a superstar for the main WWE roster, alongside such stars as Drew McIntyre and Randy Orton.

Mr Menzies said: “Making the debut felt great.

“It was a positive experience in these strange times we’re going through.

“Obviously, I’m disappointed not to pick up the win but unfortunately sometimes that’s how to cookie crumbles.

My plans for NXT are to make as big of an impression as possible and capture some NXT gold

Menzies, 32, now lives in Orlando, was a former Spen Valley Sports College in Liversedge student, who stays true to his West Yorkshire roots in his wrestling persona.

As Ridge Holland, he walks to the ring wearing a flat cap, calling himself the Bother Causer and using Northern Grit as a hashtag.

Mr Menzies still has strong roots in the Bradford district as his father, Alan Menzies, who used to play rugby league for Odsal Sedbergh, lives in Shipley.

He has now made the switch from the WWE-run NXT UK spin-off promotion up to the NXT group, where he will make his debut next Wednesday.

 

Mr Menzies now hopes to recover from his initial setback in NXT and grapple with other opponents as he makes his way in the world of sports entertainment.

His debut was teased in a preview video on last week’s NXT programme where his character was introduced to the wrestling fans.

In the video, former rugby league star Menzies in his Ridge Holland character says: “Growing up in Yorkshire, England, you either go to jail or you fight your way out.

"My way out was a sport built on malice. Unfortunately, they said I was too violent.

"Ask anyone I have been on the field with, ask anyone I have been in the ring with, they don't leave the same.

"NXT this is your warning. Ridge Holland is coming for the North American Championship."