After an impressive PROGRESS Wrestling UK debut , Aigle Blanc prepares for his next challenge at Chapter 169: The Devil On My Shoulder where he faces the youngest in charge, Leon Slater. In this exclusive interview, he opens up about his experiences at SSS16, his mindset going into his upcoming match, and his goals for the remainder of the year. Join us as we delve into the journey and aspirations of one of the most dynamic wrestlers on the scene today.
Aigle Blanc, welcome back to PROGRESS! What are your memories of your very first show for us back in 2019 in France?
Awesome throwback ! I was very young, and having the chance to work with an experienced promotion like PROGRESS Wrestling was very helpful for my career, and for all of French wrestling. Being able to main event the show to defend my APC title at just 20 years old was a big proud moment for me at this time.
How much have you changed since then as a wrestler?
I gained EXPERIENCE. Experience all around the globe, from France, Japan, USA and everywhere else in Europe, I’ve been fighting the best the world can offer. I’m here to prove that I belong here more than anyone else.
You were brought back for the 2024 Super Strong Style 16 tournament – what did that mean to you?
When I started wrestling, everyone was always talking about two tournaments in Europe, 16 Carat Gold and Super Strong Style 16. I’ve already participated in Carat twice before, so finally doing SSS16 was a highlight for my European career.
You opened the weekend and your match with Man Like DeReiss set the tone for a brilliant two days of action – ending in a ‘please come back’ chant for yourself. Tell us about the match and what it meant to get that chant from the fans…
Wrestling is a not an easy life, but when you have a reaction like this from the fans after showing your work, you realise why you dedicate your whole Life to it. I LIVE FOR THESE MOMENTS. Shoutout to DeReiss for this awesome encounter.
On day 2 you faced a very different challenge in the Rufus Hound Underdog Invitational Battle Royale – where you showed your speed, agility and power in a crazy dynamic – did you enjoy that?
I really enjoyed it, I had the chance to wrestle with awesome wrestlers again. We had fun and we fought hard, and the crowd loved it… good memories!
Next up for you is a first time ever match against Leon Slater at Chapter 169 – what are your thoughts on Leon?
I am not going do be very original, but I love him, he is awesome. A real prodigy and a good human being too. I just want to let him know that I have been looked at as a prodigy in my country too, and I have finally started to get the exposure I deserve. I will show him that the French prodigy can handle the pressure I have set on myself.
The reaction to the announcement of the match from fans was insane – are you expecting the atmosphere to be electric for it?
I EXPECT A LOT FROM THE FANS. They were awesome for my UK debut, and they don’t even know me ! Now that they now me, the PROGRESS Wrestling fans know what will happen when me and Leon Slater go one-on-one, I want the Electric Ballroom to Shake!
Lastly, what are your hopes for your time in PROGRESS Wrestling?
Like everywhere I go, come back as soon as possible. prove that I belong here, win the fans over, and win everything that I can in the company!
PROGRESS Wrestling tickets are available for all future shows via the dice app, including this July’s event, THE DEVIL ON MY SHOULDER featuring Aigle Blanc vs Leon Slater. See you on Sunday, 28th July!
You can see PROGRESS Wrestling Aigle Blanc matches, including his Super Strong Style 16 run by subscribing to DEMAND PROGRESS PLUS.
