2017 has been an amazing year for wrestling. More specifically, it has been a mark-out year for the independent scene. However, one particular man comes to mind when thinking about rising to stardom; Travis Banks.

2017: The Rise Of The Kiwi Buzzsaw

Breaking onto the independent wrestling scene in recent years, Travis Banks has been one of the industry’s most promising stars.

Since making his debut at WCPW last year, Banks has proven to be a huge name, especially within the British indie wrestling scene. He has also made appearances across the pond; for both Ring of Honor and Pro Wrestling Guerilla.

2017 has been the year that the “Kiwi Buzzsaw” put his name on the map, with the potential to grow ever stronger.

Progress World Champion

Earlier this year, Travis Banks officially entered the “Super Strong 16 Tournament” hosted by Progress Wrestling.

After victories over the likes of Zack Sabre Jr. and Tyler Bate, Travis Banks won the tournament, and then requested a title match against then Progress World Champion Pete Dunne. Thus the two faced at Chapter 55 at Alexandra Palace on September 10th.

On that very night, Travis Banks defeated Pete Dunne to become Progress World Champion, establishing his name as one of wrestling’s fastest rising stars this year.

PWG Battle of Los Angeles

For the first time in his career this year, Travis Banks entered the PWG BOLA tournament. This in itself was a monumental milestone for Banks, the BOLA is one of the best wrestling tournaments held.

Banks progressed all the way to the semi-finals, where he was ultimately beaten by Ricochet. None the less, it was a performance which put the Kiwi to high regards, as it was his first ever PWG BOLA tournament.

Hopefully we shall see Banks return to PWG action for 2018’s PWG BOLA tournament.

2017 has been a rising year for Travis Banks, as he has proven why is one of the industry’s best professional wrestlers. There is no doubt that 2018 shall be even better for the Kiwi Buzzsaw.