Cinco de Mayo is a fun holiday for everyone — not just those of Mexican descent, but for anyone interested in experiencing Mexican culture. While many people mistakenly refer to it as “Mexican Independence Day” (which actually falls in September), Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. It also ties into a larger context of political and religious tension — essentially a civil war where the Catholic Church was trying to maintain power over Mexico. Sure, some places celebrate it more like a springtime St. Patrick’s Day — an excuse to get hammered in the afternoon, no matter what day of the week it is — but Gardner, Kansas’s El Luchador restaurant went above and beyond this year. They brought the A-game with their festivities, and I have to give them major props.

Not only was the food on point (more on that in a bit), but the owners brought in live traditional music and — the main reason I showed up — Lucha Libre wrestling, courtesy of Trailblazer Championship Wrestling, Gardner’s own wrestling promotion. The matches were held throughout the day, and since it was a Sunday, I didn’t stay the entire time — but I caught about half of the action, and it was well worth it. There’s just something about an outdoor pro wrestling show that hits differently. It’s a totally different vibe from cramming into a National Guard Armory, and despite getting a little sunburned, I was glad I went.

Now, this isn’t going to be one of my typical match-by-match reviews. This was more of a special event with a different format — a lot of exhibition-style matches, unfamiliar pairings, and fresh faces who were either passing through or brought in just for this show. So think of this as a general overview, especially for those who couldn’t make it or didn’t know it was happening. And hey, if they do it again next year, maybe you’ll want to mark your calendar.

The Setup

The event was split into two main areas:

• Inside the restaurant, you had live traditional Mexican music.
• Outside on the patio, there was a drink truck and the wrestling ring.

Most people ordered food at the counter and then either stuck around inside to enjoy the music or headed outside for the party atmosphere and wrestling.

The Food

Let’s talk tacos — because, of course, I had to try something from El Luchador. I went with the Birria tacos, which are always one of my go-to dishes, and honestly, I’d been waiting for a good excuse to try them here. Verdict? Highly recommended. If you stop by, that’s a solid choice to make.

The Wrestling

I was there from just after 11:00 AM to around 4:00 PM if I recall correctly, however the event went on for another five hours or so from what I understand. When I was there, I was able to see:

• Craig Shinobi defeated “The Iron Pitbull” Kenny Kingston by pinfall.
• Johnnie Jo Black defeated El Toro Loco by pinfall.
• Fierce Tiger defeated “The Iron Pitbull” Kenny Kingston by pinfall.
• Ace in the Hole Defeated White Noise by pinfall.
• Toros Rojos defeated “The Iron Pitbull” Kenny Kingston and El Nino No-No! by pinfall. 
• “YOGAMONSTER” Mike Sydal beat Fierce Tiger by submission
• Rey De la muerte defeated Bobby Joe Black by pinfall.
• KC Red beat “The Iron Pitbull” Kenny Kingston by pinfall.
• The Wranglers defeated “2nd 2 None” Kenny Alfonso and “YOGAMONSTER” Mike Sydal by pinfall.
• Rey De la muerte defeated Trey Lind by pinfall

Here are some images from the event: