Pro wrestler enters Brantford mayoral contest as field grows to six candidates
The race to succeed Mayor Kevin Davis in Brantford widened Tuesday as a local professional wrestler — who performs under the name "Pretty Ricky Willdy" — officially filed nomination papers, bringing the number of confirmed candidates to six.
The new entrant, identified in campaign materials and local media as Ricky Willdy, said he is running because he believes citizens must move from concern to active participation in city affairs. His candidacy adds an unconventional profile to what is already shaping up to be a diverse field ahead of the municipal vote to pick a new mayor.
"I'm running for mayor for Brantford because I believe the only way to make actual change is by rolling up your sleeves and getting involved," Willdy said.
Willdy stressed his motivation is rooted in a desire to see Brantford reach its full potential and to ensure his children "have access to the best Brantford possible," according to his statement. He said the city needs more residents who are "genuinely concerned" about its state to become active in municipal operations.
Who’s in the running
Organizers and local reports indicate the municipal contest will feature a mix of candidates with varied backgrounds. Media accounts list the following developments:
- Ricky Willdy — professional wrestler, performing as "Pretty Ricky Willdy," recently filed nomination papers.
- Leslie Bory — also filed nomination papers alongside Willdy.
- Rhonda Nordlander — previously registered but has withdrawn from the race.
- Mayor Kevin Davis — the seat Willdy and others are competing to fill; the campaign is to replace Davis.
Local reporting notes the field totals six candidates, though not all names were detailed in the initial coverage. The entrance of a pro wrestler into municipal politics is catching attention, but it is one of several storylines forming around the leadership transition.
Local context and stakes for residents
Brantford residents will be watching how candidates position themselves on priorities that affect daily life: municipal services, fiscal management, economic development and neighbourhood issues. Mayoral leadership will be central to guiding council decisions on infrastructure spending, transit, housing and partnerships with provincial and federal governments.
For candidates such as Willdy, the challenge will be translating a personal profile and grassroots rhetoric into a platform that addresses those technical and long-term issues. Voters often evaluate mayoral contenders on both vision and managerial competence — a balance particularly important in municipalities undergoing growth and change.
What to expect next
With nomination periods ongoing and the candidate list still taking shape, Brantford is set for several weeks of campaigning. Residents can expect:
- More candidates to formalize campaigns and publish platforms.
- Debates, public forums and outreach events where candidates explain priorities.
- Close attention from neighbourhood groups on promises tied to local concerns.
| Item | Status |
|---|---|
| Number of confirmed candidates | Six (field reported at six) |
| Notable recent filings | Ricky Willdy; Leslie Bory |
| Recent withdrawal | Rhonda Nordlander |
As the race develops, Brantford residents will be assessing whether fresh voices offer pragmatic solutions for municipal challenges. A candidate with a prominent public persona can attract attention, but voters will ultimately weigh proposals against the everyday needs of the city.
Local campaign timetables and candidate platforms will be monitored closely in the weeks ahead as the municipal election draws nearer and Brantford prepares to choose who will lead city council into its next term.
