Cobb returns home for Annihilation 8

Action Zone Wrestling’s special guest for its upcoming anniversary show is more than a familiar face — he is its former heavyweight champion.

"Mr. Athletic" Jeff Cobb, who moved to California in January to pursue a bigger pro wrestling career, returns home for "Anniversary Annihilation 8" on Monday at the FilCom Center in Waipahu.

Cobb has been busy building his profile on the mainland, appearing in four to six shows a month for a number of promotions. He said that while his move "was the best decision" for his career, he does miss his family and friends.

"Anniversary is where I made my debut back in 2009, and that event holds a special place in my career as well as my heart," Cobb said in an email. He added that he turned down two shows to return home because "Hawaii fans and AZW come first."

In addition to Cobb’s return, another highlight of "Anniversary Annihilation 8" will be the heavyweight title matchup. Mark Anarchy, who claimed the belt in an emotional victory two months ago, will face former champion Kaimana in a do-over of May’s main event.

The show begins at 7:30 p.m. at the FilCom Center, 94-428 Mokuola St. Tickets are $20 adults, $12 children. For more information, go to www.actionzonewrestling.com.

Shojis help USA volleyball down Argentina

The U.S. men’s national volleyball team, with three players with Hawaii ties on its roster, defeated Argentina 3-1 Saturday night in an FIVB World League match in Wichita, Kan.

Libero Erik Shoji (Punahou) had a team-high six digs and his brother, setter Kawika Shoji (‘Iolani), came off the bench in Set 2 and played the rest of the match in the 22-25, 27-25, 25-19, 25-16 victory. Kawika Shoji finished with two aces and two kills as the U.S. avenged Friday’s four-set loss to Argentina.

Former University of Hawaii middle blocker Matt Rawson did not play Friday or Saturday.

The U.S. will play again on June 14-15 against France in Tulsa, Okla.

Apple to speak at Quarterback Club

University of Hawaii-Manoa chancellor Tom Apple will be the featured guest speaker at Monday’s meeting of the Honolulu Quarterback Club at the Maple Garden restaurant.

In addition, Maui athletes Keelan Ewaliko, a University of Hawaii football recruit, and Renny Richmond, a six-time state swimming champion, will make appearances.

The luncheon begins at 11:30 a.m. followed by the program at noon at the Maple Garden, located at 909 Isenberg St. The cost is $15.