MOTW 159: Jonathan Gresham vs Lee Moriarty

"M.O.T.W. #159: 'The Octopus' Jonathan Gresham vs. 'TAIGA-Style' Lee Moriarty" - ink & digital illustration

Today brings us to the 159th of our Chris Things Art 'Match of the Week' illustration series. And this week we travel to Queens, for quite the special match from earlier this year.

This spirited contest between 'The Octopus' & 'TAIGA-Style' took place on February 1st, 2026 for GCW & JCW's 'Orange Crush Presents Superpower Slam' event at the Melrose Ballroom in Queens, NYC ...& just happened to be Gresh's second match back following 2 strokes!

So returning to wrestling following a stroke at any level is something that is incredibly admirable, but to come back and your very second match is one at such a high level as this, really is just amazing!

After experiencing 2 strokes in August of 2025, The Octopus made his return to the ring the following January. He's spoken of how life-altering the experience was & all the things he feared he could never do again. But also how it changed his interpersonal demeanour for the better & his general open-ness to connection. Seeing him back in the ring this soon was certainly something that makes you nervous to watch, but this was just such a joyous thing all-round. A celebration of overcoming some gnarly adversity.

I have been a big fan of Gresham for quite a while - ever since being a real personal highlight of late-era ROH & carrying that flag proudly right until the end. I love his level of focus on the subtleties of in-ring Wrestling & the feeling of a sporting contest. And I can say the exact same for Lee Moriarty. An amazing artist both in-ring & on canvas - who's appreciation & dedication of the craft of Pro Wrestling is undeniable.

This felt similar in tone to some of my favourite World of Sport classics. Which is a big complement! Seeing Gresham return to something that he loves so much, in the perfect environment, against the perfect opponent was truly wonderful thing. This one made me very happy to watch. Some absolutely beautiful wrestling & testament to the power of human spirit.

ENJOY!

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