James Acaster, Joe Lycett and Comedy's Biggest Names Hit the Ring for Clash of the Comics 2025

Comedy Meets Wrestling in Star-Studded Spectacle for Comic Relief

The gloves (and capes) are off as Clash of the Comics returns to the Eventim Apollo on 8 October 2025 for a one-night-only live event where comedy royalty battle it out in the wrestling ring. Blending slapstick, suplexes and full-blown spectacle, this unique charity event promises chaos, carnage, and comedy in aid of Comic Relief.

James Acaster’s Open Challenge and a Main Event Grudge Match

Leading the charge is James Acaster, who has officially issued an open challenge to “any comedian or wrestler in the country,” promising to finally land an offensive move after years of failed attempts. Acaster vows to deliver “the greatest entrance you’ve ever seen.”

The night’s main event sees Clash of the Comics Champion Phil ‘Kill’ Wang defend his belt against rival Ed ‘The Gambler’ Gamble, who has stolen the title and refuses to give it back. The animosity is real — and the belt is on the line.

Other confirmed matches include:

• Maisie Adam, “The Queen of the North (Based in Brighton)” vs Nina Samuels, “The Comedian-Slayer”

• The James Acaster Open Challenge

• More match-ups to be announced — or possibly made up on the night by new CEO Joe Lycett

Joe Lycett Buys the Company, Declares Himself CEO

In an unexpected twist, comedian Joe Lycett has declared himself CEO of Clash of the Comics, having apparently bought the company during a late-night online shopping spree. “I awoke the next day to discover that I had purchased, amongst other things (condoms, eggs, etc), the world’s leading comedy-and-wrestling promotion,” said Lycett. He will appear live at the event to oversee proceedings, “until I change my mind.”

More Comedians Step into the Ring

This year’s expanded roster features a slew of high-profile debuts and returning favourites:

• Rose Matafeo as the heroic “Rose Mata-slay-o”

• Kiell Smith-Bynoe as “The King of Barbados”

• Max Fosh as “Max ‘The Dosh’ Fosh”

• Maisie Adam, returning with a vengeance

• Commentary from Greg James, Nish Kumar, and Sara Pascoe

Also announced are Phil Wang, Ed Gamble, Rosie Jones, Max & Ivan, Abi Clarke, Olga Koch, Matthew Crosby, Jazz Emu, and Flo & Joan.

Professional Wrestlers Join the Mayhem

Elite wrestling talent will share the ring with the comics, including:

• Former WWE star Big Damo

• Nina Samuels

• Cara Noir

• Simon Miller

• Bullit

• La Cyclonica

• Adam Maxted

• Rishi Ghosh, “The Prince of Mumbai”

• British legend Jody Fleisch

All participating comedians undergo professional training at PlayFight, the UK’s premier wrestling school, ensuring they’re show-ready — even if not entirely ring-ready.

About the Show

Formerly known as The Wrestling, Clash of the Comics has sold out shows at the Edinburgh Fringe, Melbourne Comedy Festival, and Just For Laughs London, earning rave reviews and cult status. The show is the brainchild of Max & Ivan, the multi-award-winning comedy duo, with Max Olesker bringing real-life wrestling experience as a former pro performer under the name “Max Voltage.”

Event Details

• Date: 8 October 2025

• Venue: Eventim Apollo, London

Socials:

• Instagram / TikTok / YouTube / Threads: @clashofthecomics

A full selection of press imagery and video teasers are available to press upon request.

With body slams, mic drops and no shortage of theatrical absurdity, Clash of the Comics is set to be the wildest night of comedy theatre in 2025. Expect the unexpected—and don’t forget your popcorn.