It was an electrifying night at Freeman’s Bay Community Hall as IPW kicked off the year with Collision Course, setting the tone for a chaotic and unpredictable 2026. Photos by David Fu.

The IPW Aotearoa Tag Team Championships opened the night with Generation Iron defending against veteran duo Church & State. James Shaw and Sir Mr. Burns used every ounce of their experience to keep the champions on the back foot, but Generation Iron’s grit carried them through, allowing them to walk out still holding the gold.

Tensions between the factions only escalated when Tyler Ernst and Joseph Kruz met in singles action. Kruz brought the fire, but Ernst’s intensity proved decisive, giving him a win and momentum heading into the year.

Wild Hunt and SAS clashed next in a battle to climb the tag team rankings. Savage and Stone fought with the hunger of former champions, but Jordan Macallen and Connor King showed why they’re quickly becoming the team to watch, securing a strong victory.

A heavyweight collision followed as IPW New Zealand Heavyweight Champion Jayrilla faced Pat Schisk in non‑title action. The ring shook with every exchange, and while Schisk came dangerously close to toppling The Great Ape, Jayrilla powered through to take the win.

What was meant to be a tag match turned into a two‑on‑one situation when Kid Nova found himself alone against Matty Short and Izzy Kinloch. Nova fought valiantly, but the numbers game was too much, giving Short and Kinloch their first win as a team.

Liger and Xander Taylor then collided in a high‑stakes veteran vs upstart showdown. Liger brought the fight, but Taylor, continuing his rise, proved why he’s one of IPW’s brightest prospects, putting the Strong Style Samoan down.

The IPW Women’s Division heated up in a four‑person tag match featuring Amber Saint, Megan‑Kate, Mighty Maia, and Candy Lee. Saint and Megan‑Kate held together well, but Maia and Lee looked poised to take the win – until Sister Olivia shocked the crowd with a sudden attack on Mighty Maia, shaking the division to its core.

In a must‑see match, Jake Shehaan challenged Horus for the Warner Cup. Horus has been laser‑focused on bringing the cup to The Eliminator for a shot at the heavyweight title, but Shehaan had other plans. A handful of tights secured him the win, derailing Horus’ mission.

The night ended with a seismic shift in IPW’s landscape. After the main event, Shehaan called Jayrilla out for what appeared to be a respectful challenge. Instead, Xander Taylor (now going by Kauri), stormed the ring and assaulted Benny Keen, allowing Shehaan to take Jayrilla down. The two revealed their renewed alliance, reforming CTRL and sending shockwaves through the roster.

What a way to start the year. IPW returns Saturday 4 April for Live In Hamilton. Tickets are available now via Flicket.