Before a packed Pittsburgh audience on Saturday March 28, 2015, James J. Dillon joined “Big Bully” Nick Busick as members of the Keystone State Wrestling Alliance (KSWA) Class of 2015 Hall of Fame. Busick was advertised as an inductee but it came as a surprise for Dillon, who had only been mentioned as a mentor for Shawn Blanchard in the Main Event.
Busick, born in nearby Steubenville, Ohio, and living in Weirton, West Virginia, often called Pittsburgh his wrestling home. Dillon, born in Trenton, New Jersey, recognizes Pittsburgh as the site of his first sanctioned match. In 2009 Dillon participated in his last sanctioned match.
DeNucci, from Venice, Italy, has called Freedom, Pennsylvania home for decades. The KSWA Hall of Fame only recognizes wrestlers and wrestling personalities who have either called Western Pennsylvania home and/or recognized the area as influential in their careers.
“This is a true surprise,” said Dillon upon his induction in the ceremony.
A series of banners showcasing all KSWA Hall of Famers debuted on Saturday, March 28 as well during the 8th annual Joe Abby Memorial event. From Joe Abby and Frank Durso in 2008, “Demolition Ax” Bill Eadie in 2009; Donna Christiantello and Dominic DeNucci in 2010; Bobby “Hurricane” Hunt and Ron Romano in 2011; Lord Zoltan, Howard Kernats and Bruno Sammartino in 2012; George “The Animal” Steele, “KSWA Original” Tommy Faime, Bucky Palermo and “Luscious” Johnny Valiant in 2013; “Chilly” Bill Cardille, “Jumpin’” Johnny DeFazio and Chuck Martoni in 2014.