The student-run magazine of San Francisco State University

Xpress Magazine

The student-run magazine of San Francisco State University

Xpress Magazine

The student-run magazine of San Francisco State University

Xpress Magazine

A Certain Strain of Wrestler: A Photo Story

This Oakland league returns wrestling to its roots
Marcelo+Montoya+practices+a+new+grapple+trick+on+a+student.+%0A
Gustavo Hernandez
Marcelo Montoya practices a new grapple trick on a student.

Before the establishment of some of the most renowned wrestling companies like World Wrestling Entertainment and All Elite Wrestling, theatrical wrestling could be seen in a more local setting. As the sport grew in popularity and companies merged, independent leagues fell out of the limelight—but many still remain. Situated in the heart of West Oakland is a wrestling league that brings the historic sport of entertainment wrestling back to its roots—with some herbal additions. Wrestlers of all skill levels meet at Stoner U three times a week to learn, train, compete and often smoke marijuana together. Derek and Dustin Mehl, also known by their ring names Scott Rick and Rick Scott, have immersed their own lives and the lives of their students in the world of wrestling for over a decade. The walls of the warehouse where the brothers train students are teemed with vintage bobbleheads, event flyers and photographs of the theatrical sport. Stoner U is not only the perfect launch pad for anyone interested in the sport, but also pays homage to the early days of entertainment wrestling.

Stephen Buchanan (bottom), a student at Stoner U is seen in performance at the school. (Gustavo Hernandez/Xpress)

 

Detail of a wrestler’s hand. (Gustavo Hernandez/Xpress)

 

Joey Gonzo and Marcelo Montoya enter the wrestling ring at Stoner U. (Gustavo Hernandez/Xpress)

 

Stephen Buchanan (right), a student at Stoner U, is thrown into the corner of the wrestling ring. (Gustavo Hernandez/Xpress)

 

A Stoner U student hangs onto the bottom rope. Every third Thursday of the month, Stoner U holds events for all its students in their practice space. (Gustavo Hernandez/Xpress)
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Gustavo Hernandez
Gustavo Hernandez, Staff Photographer

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