Professional wrestling fans have long sought ways to bring the excitement of the ring into their homes. For many, collecting memorabilia and merchandise is a passion that allows them to feel closer to their favorite wrestlers and promotions. Among the most cherished collectibles in recent years are the ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards, which have taken the wrestling world by storm. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about these unique and highly sought-after items.
What is ROH Redragon Filsinger Art?
ROH Redragon Filsinger Art refers to a special series of collectible cards featuring the popular tag team Redragon (Kyle O’Reilly and Bobby Fish) from Ring of Honor (ROH) wrestling. These cards are produced by Filsinger Games, a company known for creating tabletop wrestling games and collectibles. The artworks on these cards are highly detailed and capture the essence of Redragon’s in-ring persona and style.
The Rise of Redragon in ROH
Before diving deeper into the art itself, it’s important to understand the significance of Redragon in ROH. Kyle O’Reilly and Bobby Fish formed their tag team in 2012 and quickly became one of the most dominant forces in ROH’s tag team division. Their hard-hitting style, technical prowess, and natural chemistry made them fan favorites and multiple-time ROH World Tag Team Champions.
Redragon’s success in ROH helped elevate the promotion’s tag team scene to new heights. Their matches against teams like The Young Bucks and The Briscoes are still talked about today as some of the best tag team encounters in ROH history. This level of popularity and in-ring excellence made Redragon the perfect subject for Filsinger’s artistry.
The Filsinger Games Connection
Filsinger Games has been producing wrestling-themed games and collectibles since the 1980s. Founded by Tom Filsinger, the company has a long history of working with various wrestling promotions to create officially licensed products. Their partnership with ROH allowed them to bring some of the promotion’s biggest stars, including Redragon, to life through their unique art style.
The Art Style of ROH Redragon Filsinger Art
The ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards feature a distinctive style that sets them apart from typical wrestling trading cards or photographs. Here are some key aspects of the artwork:
- Dynamic Poses: The cards often depict Kyle O’Reilly and Bobby Fish in action-packed poses, capturing their signature moves and tag team maneuvers.
- Detailed Facial Expressions: The artists pay close attention to facial features, conveying the intensity and focus that Redragon brings to their matches.
- Accurate Ring Attire: Each card showcases Redragon in their iconic ring gear, complete with intricate designs and accurate color schemes.
- Background Elements: Many cards incorporate elements of the ROH arena or logo, helping to establish the context and brand association.
- Comic Book Influence: The overall style often draws inspiration from comic book art, giving the cards a larger-than-life feel that matches the larger-than-life personas of professional wrestlers.
Collecting ROH Redragon Filsinger Art
For wrestling fans and collectors, acquiring ROH Redragon Filsinger Art has become a passionate pursuit. Here are some tips for those looking to start or expand their collection:
- Know the Rarity: Some cards are produced in limited quantities, making them more valuable. Research the print runs of different cards to understand their scarcity.
- Condition Matters: As with any collectible, the condition of the card greatly affects its value. Store your cards properly to maintain their quality.
- Attend Wrestling Events: Filsinger Games often has a presence at major wrestling conventions and ROH events, where you might find exclusive or rare cards.
- Join Collector Communities: Connect with other fans and collectors through online forums and social media groups dedicated to wrestling collectibles.
- Authenticate Your Purchases: When buying from third-party sellers, especially for rarer cards, ensure the authenticity of the item.
The Impact of ROH Redragon Filsinger Art on Wrestling Culture
The popularity of ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards has had a significant impact on wrestling culture and the collectibles market. Here’s how:
- Increased Interest in Wrestling Art: These cards have helped spark a renewed interest in wrestling-themed artwork, inspiring both fans and artists.
- Collectible Gaming: The cards serve a dual purpose as both collectibles and game pieces for Filsinger’s wrestling games, introducing many fans to a new way of engaging with the sport.
- Preserving Wrestling History: As physical mementos of Redragon’s time in ROH, these cards help preserve an important chapter in independent wrestling history.
- Bridging Generations: Older fans familiar with Filsinger Games from previous decades can connect with younger fans over their shared appreciation for modern stars like Redragon.
- Supporting Independent Wrestling: The success of these cards has shown that there’s a strong market for products featuring independent wrestling talent, potentially opening doors for more collaborations and opportunities.
The Creative Process Behind ROH Redragon Filsinger Art
Creating the ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards involves a collaborative effort between artists, the Filsinger Games team, and sometimes input from the wrestlers themselves. The process typically includes:
- Concept Development: Artists work with Filsinger Games to determine which poses or moments to capture for each card.
- Reference Gathering: High-quality photos and video footage of Redragon are used as reference material to ensure accuracy.
- Sketching and Approval: Initial sketches are created and reviewed before moving to the final artwork.
- Coloring and Detailing: The approved sketches are then brought to life with color and intricate details.
- Production and Printing: The finished artwork is prepared for printing, with careful attention paid to color accuracy and card stock quality.
This meticulous process ensures that each card is a miniature work of art that truly captures the essence of Redragon and their impact on ROH.
The Legacy of Redragon in ROH
While Kyle O’Reilly and Bobby Fish have since moved on to other promotions, their legacy in ROH remains strong. The ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards serve as a testament to their contributions to the company and the mark they left on tag team wrestling. Some of their notable achievements in ROH include:
- Three-time ROH World Tag Team Champions
- Winners of the 2014 Tag Wars tournament
- Participants in numerous critically acclaimed matches
- Helping to elevate ROH’s tag team division to world-class status
These accomplishments, immortalized in the Filsinger Art cards, ensure that Redragon’s place in ROH history is secure.
The Future of ROH Redragon Filsinger Art
As the popularity of these cards continues to grow, fans and collectors are eager to see what the future holds for ROH Redragon Filsinger Art. Some possibilities include:
- Expanded Series: New cards featuring different moments from Redragon’s ROH career.
- Limited Edition Releases: Special cards commemorating specific matches or milestones.
- Digital Collectibles: The potential for NFT versions of the artwork.
- Collaborative Projects: Possible crossovers with other wrestling promotions or artists.
The ongoing interest in these cards demonstrates the enduring appeal of both Redragon and the unique art style of Filsinger Games.
Caring for Your ROH Redragon Filsinger Art Collection
To ensure that your ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards remain in pristine condition for years to come, consider the following care tips:
- Use Protective Sleeves: Store each card in a high-quality, acid-free sleeve to prevent scratches and dust accumulation.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep your cards away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and color degradation.
- Control Humidity: Store your collection in a cool, dry place to prevent warping or mold growth.
- Handle with Care: Always handle cards by their edges and consider using cotton gloves to avoid transferring oils from your skin.
- Use Proper Storage: Invest in a sturdy storage box or binder designed specifically for trading cards.
- Regular Inspection: Periodically check your collection for any signs of damage or deterioration.
By following these guidelines, you can preserve the value and quality of your ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards for future enjoyment and potential investment.
The Community Around ROH Redragon Filsinger Art
One of the most rewarding aspects of collecting ROH Redragon Filsinger Art is the community that has formed around it. Collectors often gather at wrestling events, conventions, and online forums to share their passion, trade cards, and discuss the latest releases. This sense of community adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the hobby and provides opportunities for fans to connect with like-minded individuals.
Some ways to engage with the ROH Redragon Filsinger Art community include:
- Joining online collector groups on social media platforms
- Participating in trading forums and marketplaces
- Attending wrestling conventions and meet-ups
- Sharing your collection and stories on wrestling fan sites
- Collaborating with other collectors for special projects or displays
The shared enthusiasm for these unique collectibles has created lasting friendships and connections among wrestling fans from all walks of life.
ROH Redragon Filsinger Art as an Investment
While many collectors acquire these cards purely for personal enjoyment, some view ROH Redragon Filsinger Art as a potential investment. As with any collectible market, values can fluctuate, but several factors contribute to the potential investment value of these cards:
- Limited Print Runs: The scarcity of certain cards can drive up their value over time.
- Historical Significance: As representations of a pivotal time in ROH and independent wrestling history, these cards may appreciate in value.
- Condition Rarity: Well-preserved cards in mint condition become increasingly rare as time passes, potentially increasing their worth.
- Artist Reputation: As the reputation of the artists involved grows, so too may the value of their earlier works.
- Wrestling’s Growing Popularity: The continued mainstream success of professional wrestling could lead to increased interest in related collectibles.
While it’s important to collect primarily for personal enjoyment, being aware of these potential investment aspects can add an extra dimension to your collecting experience.
Comparing ROH Redragon Filsinger Art to Other Wrestling Collectibles
To fully appreciate the unique nature of ROH Redragon Filsinger Art, it’s helpful to compare them to other types of wrestling collectibles:
- Traditional Trading Cards: Unlike mass-produced trading cards, Filsinger Art cards are more limited and feature original artwork rather than photographs.
- Action Figures: While action figures offer a 3D representation, Filsinger Art cards provide a more portable and displayable collectible option.
- Autographs: Filsinger Art cards can complement autograph collections, offering a visually striking piece to be signed.
- Event Posters: Similar to posters in their visual appeal, Filsinger Art cards are more compact and often more detailed in their depiction of specific wrestlers.
- Championship Replicas: While belt replicas offer a tangible piece of wrestling iconography, Filsinger Art cards provide a more affordable way to collect multiple pieces of wrestling history.
Each type of collectible has its own appeal, but the ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards occupy a unique space that combines artistry, collectibility, and gaming functionality.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of ROH Redragon Filsinger Art
The ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards represent more than just collectibles; they are a celebration of wrestling artistry, both in the ring and on the canvas. These cards capture the spirit of one of ROH’s most iconic tag teams and preserve their legacy for fans to enjoy for years to come.
Whether you’re a die-hard ROH fan, a Redragon supporter, an art enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the unique intersection of wrestling and collectibles, these cards offer something special. They serve as a tangible connection to the excitement and passion of professional wrestling, allowing fans to hold a piece of that energy in their hands.
As the world of wrestling continues to evolve, the ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards stand as a testament to a particular moment in time – a moment when two exceptional athletes came together to create magic in the ring, inspiring artists to immortalize their performances in a truly distinctive way.
For collectors, these cards offer the thrill of the hunt, the joy of acquisition, and the satisfaction of owning a piece of wrestling history. For casual fans, they provide a window into the artistry and athleticism that makes professional wrestling so captivating. And for everyone in between, they serve as a reminder of the power of art to capture the essence of human performance and turn it into something timeless.
As long as there are fans who appreciate the blend of athletics, storytelling, and spectacle that professional wrestling provides, there will be a place for ROH Redragon Filsinger Art in the hearts and collections of enthusiasts around the world.
FAQs About ROH Redragon Filsinger Art
What makes ROH Redragon Filsinger Art different from regular wrestling cards?
ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards feature original artwork rather than photographs, are produced in limited quantities, and can be used in Filsinger Games’ wrestling tabletop games.
How often are new ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards released?
Release schedules can vary, but new cards are typically announced a few times a year. It’s best to follow Filsinger Games’ official channels for the most up-to-date information.
Can I use ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards in other wrestling games?
While designed for Filsinger Games’ systems, many collectors display or use them creatively in other ways. However, they may not be compatible with other companies’ games.
Are ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards officially licensed by Ring of Honor?
Yes, these cards are produced under official license from ROH, ensuring their authenticity and connection to the promotion.
How can I tell if an ROH Redragon Filsinger Art card is authentic?
Authentic cards will have specific markings, including the Filsinger Games logo and copyright information. If in doubt, purchase from authorized sellers or contact Filsinger Games directly.
Do Kyle O’Reilly and Bobby Fish receive royalties from these cards?
While specific financial arrangements are not public, licensed products typically involve some form of compensation for the featured talent.
Can I meet the artists who create ROH Redragon Filsinger Art?
Some artists attend wrestling conventions or collectible shows. Check event schedules or Filsinger Games announcements for potential appearances.
Are there ROH Redragon Filsinger Art cards featuring their singles matches?
Most cards focus on Redragon as a tag team, but some may depict individual moments or moves from singles competition within ROH.
How should I display my ROH Redragon Filsinger Art collection?
Many collectors use card binders, top-loading cases, or even custom frames to display their cards while protecting them from damage.
Will ROH Redragon Filsinger Art increase in value over time?
While there’s no guarantee, limited edition collectibles associated with popular wrestlers often appreciate in value, especially if kept in good condition.