MCW Seeks to Bodyslam Autism

To fans of Maryland Championship Wrestling, Matthew Bowman is known as “Wiseguy” Jimmy Cicero, a longtime wrestler and current in-ring “commissioner” of the local promotion.

However, to sons Anthony and Nicholas, he is simply known as “dad.” As a parent, Bowman tries to be devoted as possible to his children, including getting both young boys assistance for autism.

Anthony and Nicholas Bowman, ages 4 and 2, are two of the thousands of Americans diagnosed with autism.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, autism is defined as “a range of complex neurodevelopment disorders, characterized by social impairments, communication difficulties, and restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior.” The institute estimates that three to six out of every 1,000 children suffer from some form of autism.

“Once you realize your children need help, you want to do everything as a parent to ensure they have the best chances possible to succeed in life,” Bowman said.

Part of Bowman’s efforts have been using his background in professional wrestling as a platform to educate others about the disorder and help raise money for organizations researching treatment options.

Bowman’s efforts are the major motivation behind MCW’s Bodyslam Autism card, set for 7:30 p.m. Friday at The New Green Room in Dundalk. MCW held the card in April to coincide with Autism Awareness Month.

“Jimmy has been such a passionate worker for us through the years and is so well-respected that this is something we are glad to help him with,” said MCW owner Dan McDevitt, a Middle River resident and a Patch real estate columnist.

MCW will donate $1 from every ticket to Autism Speaks. Fans can also purchase “Bodyslam Autism” T-shirts and bracelets, with a portion of the proceeds going to the same cause.

“Wrestling fans are so passionate,” Bowman said. “They come to see body slams, super kicks and people getting beat up, but they understand I’m coming out to give them a brief message on an important cause, and they will listen and support what we are doing.”

Bowman said the last few years have been an educational experience for him and his wife, Windra. Both of their sons are receiving special education and are learning how to live with autism.

Anthony has improved his functioning and has gone from speaking a few words to more than 50. But, it has not come without a struggle as he learns sign language to aid with his communication and develops a consistent routine, which is vital to those with autism. Nicholas is just starting to receive similar assistance.

Bowman, who wrestled for various promotions from 1993-2006, said since he returned to “sports-entertainment” two years ago he has been embraced by fans and fellow wrestlers who have offered encouragement and even their own stories of dealing with autism. This includes help from such legends as WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy Snuka, whose grandson has autism.

“There are those who look at professional wrestling as low-brow entertainment, but that’s the farthest thing from the truth,” Bowman said. “Those in professional wrestling have been like a second family to me and have helped me see we’re not alone out there. Together, we can work together to bodyslam autism.”

The card on Friday also has special meaning for MCW wrestler Ryan McBride, whose 21-year-old brother has autism. McBride, who will wrestle The Bruiser on Friday, said his brother received the proper help growing up, which allowed him to graduate high school and get a job.

“You most likely wouldn’t even know he had autism,” McBride said. “Jimmy does so much for this cause and I think he can really make a difference with the platform he has with MCW.”

Tickets for MCW's Bodyslam Autism pro wrestling card are $20-$25 and can be purchased at MarylandWrestling.com. Also, for more information about Bowman's efforts to combat autism, visit JimmyCiceroWrestling.com.