My Exclusive Interview with Claudio Castagnoli

The following is a brief, but meaningful, interview I conducted with independent superstar and former WWE employee Claudio Castagnoli.
Q: When you arrived in Chikara, you received some training from wrestling experts Mike Quackenbush and Skayde. How beneficiary was it for you and what did you learn?
A: It was very beneficiary since that style was new to me.
Q: I have also read that you received training from the legendary Honky Tonk Man. When exactly did this occur and how?
A: It occured in 2002 or 2003 in Switzerland. My memory is not that good on dates. He was wrestling for a promotion in Switzerland and had a trainings camp before the show.
Q: Last year you won a torneo cibernetico while competing in Chikara. How interesting was it competing in that epic match?
A: It was great! Just a great feeling and I'm proud to have pulled off the victory.
Q: Finally, Chikara is known for its clashing of three styles, Puroresu, Lucha Libre, and American pro wrestling. Do you consider yourself strictly one style or several?
A: I consider myself the best all around wrestler!

Who's Who: Demolition

Career:
In the mid-to-late eighties, the Road Warriors, or the Legion of Doom, were a widely successful tag team across the country. Before the Warriors' WWF run began in 1990, Vince McMahon sensed a void in the tag team division. He examined teams like The Killer Bees and The Strike Force and came to the conclusion that he was missing a brutal, dominating force in the division. In January of 1987, Bill Eadie, who had competed in the World Wrestling Federation as Super Machine earlier in the decade, returned to the company and was quickly placed in a tag team with Randy Colley, a.k.a Moondog Rex at the time. McMahon and his crew quickly developed a gimmick for them that directly resembled the Road Warriors. The two were put under face paint and clothed in entrance attire adorned with spikes, resembling the Warriors. Next, they were given a hard rock entrance theme and an intimidating name in Demolition. On January 17, 1987, Eadie and Colley, now known as Ax and Smash, respectively, defeated Salvatore Bellomo and Mario Mancini in their Federation and, moreover, wrestling debut. Within a few more matches, Colley became engaged in a contractual dispute (later on, Eadie claimed that he feared fans would recognize Colley) with the WWF and was soon released, leaving Ax the only member of Demolition. Barry Darsow, who was competing in the NWA as Krusher Kruschev, was hired and named the new Demolition Smash. Within the next year, they would overcome nearly every face tag team on the WWF roster. While beginning domination, the two enlisted the conniving Mr. Fuji as their manager. Another year later, Demolition would start their first WWF Tag Team Championship reign after defeating the Strike Force in their Wrestlemania debut. During the reign, a new team, displaying as much raw power as them, entered the business. The Powers of Pain, consisting of the Warlord and the Barbarian, immediately challenged Demolition, leading Fuji to turn on his charges in favor of the Powers. The feud entered a climax when the now babyface Champions Demolition defeated the Powers of Pain at Wrestlemania V to retain their gold. Two months later, they dropped their belts to the Brainbusters, Tully Blanchard and Arn Anderson, on the July 18th edition of Saturday's Night Main Event, bringing an end to the longest title reign in WWF history (478 days, the record still stands.) Over half a year later in November, the team of Ax and Smash achieved revenge after defeating Anderson and Blanchard to regain their WWF Titles. Only a month later, the Colossal Connection, which featured two members of the Heenan Family in Andre the Giant and Haku, took the belts from Demolition. Then, for the third year in a row, Demolition won a Wrestlemania bout that had the Tag Titles at risk by defeating the Connection to become Champions for the third and final time. During the first half of 1990, Crush, a.k.a the late Brian Adams, became a member of the born again heel tag team after Bill Eadie was sidelined from a severe allergic reaction to shellfish. For the next 6 months, the newly formed trio defended the titles using the "Freebird rule" (three or more group members alternating for defense in separate matches.) At SummerSlam in 1990, the Hart Foundation unseated Demolition for the gold. Thereafter, the trio's success began declining. With WWF's acquisition of the Road Warriors, rechristened the Legion of Doom, Demolition began to dissolve. Demolition Ax (Eadie) left the company sometime after November 1990 to rejoin the independent scene. Then at Wrestlemania VII, Demolition, now comprised of only Crush and Smash, lost their final match to Koji Kitao and Genechiro Tenryu. Following the breakup of the group, Crush and Smash remained with the World Wrestling Federation. Smash was redirected as the Repo Man, literally a repo man, before leaving for WCW under his real name. Crush kept his name and transitioned back-and-forth from heel to face. Crush left the company sometime in the late 1990's before retiring in 2002. Sadly, Brian Adams passed away on August 13, 2007, at the young age of 44. Since the 1991 demise of Demolition, the duo has reunited multiple times beginning on April 17, 2007, including several appearances in Philadelphia's Chikara Pro Wrestling.
Perspective:
While Demolition may be remembered as a blatant rip-off, there was much more to the team. Demolition served as the elevation of both Barry Darsow and Brian Adams' careers and the successful ending of Bill Eadie's storied career. So, to close, Demolition can be fairly judged as a dominant, sometimes mechanical, but very talented group.

ROH Respect is Earned II

- The show began with announcers Dave Prazak and Lenny Leonard introducing the show followed by clips from exciting ROH action. Next the tag team scene since the last PPV was recapped.
- Kevin Steen and El Generico def. The Vulture Squad (Jigsaw and Ruckus) in 9:00 when Generico pinned Jigsaw after a "Top Rope Splash". The match was very well worked. Steen and Generico are a very polished tag team which compliments Steen's ability to be a ring general. (Match rating: ***)
- A video featuring the Briscoe Brothers aired before more ring action.
- Claudio Castagnoli def. Davey Richards in 9:00 with a huge "European Uppercut." Castagnoli is remarkably athletic and talented. The announcers thankfully reminded us that Claudio is 3-0 on pay-per-view. Nice mid-card bout with likable commentary by ROH World Champion Nigel McGuinness. (***)
- Next, Larry Sweeney, with Sweet 'n' Sour, Inc., cut a stunning promo that solidified him as a world class manager. The promo became full circle when Sweeney sent group member Bobby Dempsey away in disgust as usual. After this a promo was cut by Brent Albright who introduced his army to fight S 'n' S, Inc. Solid promos by both men.
- Brent Albright, Delirious, and Pelle Primeau (w/ Daizee Haze) def. Sweet 'n' Sour, Inc. (Eddie Edwards, Chris Hero, and Adam Pearce w/ Larry Sweeney, Shane Hagadorn, Bobby Dempsey, and Sara Del Rey) in 10:00 when Albright KO'd Edwards. A nicely built match that furthered Albright's feud with Larry Sweeney. After the match, Pearce hit Albright with a suitcase that Sweeney was hiding the contents of. When revealed, the NWA belt, then held by Pearce, was showcased and hyped by Sweeney to be more prestigious than the ROH strap. (***)
- After a video of their feud, Roderick Strong def. Erick Stevens in a ladder match in 23:00. Strong match with awesome spots and nice build. The bout was fairly intense and enjoyable. (****)
- ROH World Champion Nigel McGuinness def. Go Shiozaki in 17:00 with the "Jawbreaker Lariat" to retain the belt. The match was a little less than expected but still very watchable. McGuinness is a great talent and Shiozaki is only one of many severely gifted Japanese wrestlers that works for ROH. Nigel's finisher is also gold. After the match, Bryan Danielson came out and officially challenged Nigel for the title. (***1/4)
- A recap of the Aries-Jacobs feud over Lacey aired.
- ROH World Tag Team Champions The Age of the Fall (Tyler Black and Jimmy Jacobs) def. Austin Aries and Bryan Danielson in 27:00 to retain. High-impact match-up with remarkable intensity. Black has enormous potential, Jacobs is a believable sneaky heel, Aries oozes charisma, and Danielson is a wrestling machine. The ending was perfect with Black pinning Danielson after Aries and Jacobs brawled towards the locker room. Everything was nearly perfect in this bout. (Match of the night, ****1/2)
Hits: Everything, no misses
Overall Rating: Four Stars

Raw Review (August 4)

- To open the show, we get the new Raw General Manager Mike Adamle standing on the ramp. First he tells that he is comparable to Ronald Reagan because they both failed at the first jobs: announcer and actor, respectively. But he then assured us that, like Ronald Reagan as the US President, he will succeed at his current role. He then pleaded the fans for a chance as GM because he would like to be a part of the "Land of Opportunity". That's why he placed Michael Cole in a Tag Team Title match with Jerry Lawler last week. He half-apologized to both men. Adamle then announced three Title matches, one of which was World Tag Champs Rhodes and DiBiase against John Cena and Batista. Eventually, JBL came out and levied for a JBL-Punk World Title bout at SummerSlam until he was interrupted by Chris Jericho who also argued for a shot at the belt. Soon enough, we got an "Adamle Original" from the new Raw GM! It would be Jericho and JBL Vs. Punk in a handicap match. Whoever pins or defeats Punk will get the World Title shot at SummerSlam, but if neither are successful, neither one get the shot. Adamle wished them luck and sent us to commercials.
- Intercontinental Champion Kofi Kingston def. Paul Burchill in 4:00 with a "Trouble in Paradise" to retain. The match was a short and dull but purpose-serving. After the bout, Kofi and Burchill battled to the outside leaving Katie Lea in the ring alone. Mickie James ran in after Katie to set up the Women's Title match which is up after the break. (Match rating: *)
- Women's Champion Mickie James def. Katie Lea Burchill in 5:00 with a "DDT" to keep the strap. The match was a tad better than the IC Title bout, but this match was still way too short. After the match, Beth Phoenix, with Santino Marella, attacked Mickie then walked up the ramp where she and Santino exchange taps on the rear end. Now commercials. (* 1/2)
- Back from the break, Adamle is in his office and on his cell phone talking to Stephanie McMahon and congratulating her on the birth of her second child (Murphy Claire Helmsley-McMahon). Eventually Santino and Beth come in and want their respective title shots at Kofi and Mickie. Admale comes up with another "Adamle Original" that puts Beth and Santino in a tag bout against IC Champ Kofi Kingston and Women's Champ Mickie James for both titles at SummerSlam. Next we get a John Cena video and a solid promo by Batista before the commercials.
- Back from commercials, Layla is "dancing" in the ring and soon after a clip of her and Jamie Noble talking backstage from earlier in the day is aired. During the clip, Layla turns down Jamie's offer to go to the Waffle House because she is not going to "associate herself with a loser." After the clip, William Regal interrupts Layla in the ring and is soon encountered by Jamie Noble. The two have a brief brawl before being broken up by security. This could be Regal's punishment loss for being suspended last month. We'll see next week. Now a commercial.
- JBL and Chris Jericho def. CM Punk in 9:59 when JBL pinned Punk to gain a title shot. Before the match, Adamle reminded everyone that the match must be decided in 10:00 or both men will compete in a Triple Threat for the title at SummerSlam. However the match ended in time when Chris Jericho clotheslined JBL on the top rope when time was running out and JBL landed on Punk for the win with one second to spare. The bout was fairly good with a shocking outcome. Nice handicap match. (Match of the Night **3/4)
- Back from break, we get the return of Shawn Michaels who is live via satellite from his San Antonio home. Jerry Lawler conducts an interview with him, and Michaels says that he isn't for sure if he will return or retire. Ultimately he rules that he will follow the doctor's orders following his appointment on the 15th. Michaels was stern, serious, and intense as always. Nice interview. Next was a short "class" by the "teacher" Matt Striker. Eventually Kane interrupted and squashed Striker. Kane def. Matt Striker in 1:00 with a "Chokelsam". After the match, Kane grabbed the burlap sac and assured us "he" was dead. Anyway, it was just a squash. (1/2*) After the Smackdown Review, John Cena delivered a serious, solid promo to hype SummerSlam. This lead to a commercial.
- Back from the break, Kelly Kelly shows up for no good reason to congratulate Mike Adamle who promises another "Adamle Original" by finding what's inside Kane's bag. Now for the main event which was interrupted by commercials. John Cena and Batista def. World Tag Champs Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase Jr. in 14:00 to win the belts. The match wasn't all that, but the outcome is just awful. It looked as if WWE was going to actually put faith in the tag team division, but this destroys everything. Cena and Batista become tag team champions for no reason. Simply ridiculous. After the match, Cena and Batista pose with their titles to the crowd's approval to end the show. (*1/2, good match, awful ending)

Hits: Mike Adamle, the Handicap Match, Santino and Beth, the Continued IC and Women's feuds, Shawn Michaels Interview
Misses: The Main Event's Outcome, the Burial of Matt Striker
Tweeners: William Regal and Jamie Noble, Kane
Overall Rating: **1/2 (Overall good except for ending)

Viva Lucha: Who's the Real La Parka?

In WCW, La Parka was one of a large group of luchadors that worked for the company. Called the "Chairman of WCW" for his use of steel chairs, he was one of the crowd's favorite high flyers to cheer and boo. In early 2000, he left the company and went back to Mexico where he had competed as La Parka four years prior to his 1996 WCW debut. The main reason for his departure was a dispute over his name in Mexico. When Adolfo Ibarra, the man under the mask, left AAA in Mexico with the gimmick, Antonio Pena, AAA's promoter, was left without one of his top draws. To solve the problem, he created AAA' s version of La Parka, commonly called La Parka Jr. Soon, controversy over the name ensued. Ibarra returned to his native country to compete for AAA's rival, CMLL, leaving Pena to make a crucial decision. Pena decided to trademark the name and look of La Parka, banning Adolfo from appearing in Mexico as La Parka. Due to Pena's ownership of the gimmick, Ibarra was forced to compete in Mexico as L.A. Park, technically meaning La Autentica Park which translates to the Authentic Parka. Today, Adolfo is allowed to wrestle in the United States as La Parka but competes in Mexico under the aliases L.A. Park and La Par-K. So to clear up any confusion if you're a fan of lucha libre, the La Parka competing in AAA debuted in 1996 as WCW's La Parka started the gimmick in 1992. (visit luchawiki.org for more lucha libre). Viva Lucha!

Left: The Original, Right: AAA's Current Version

ECW Review (July 29)

1. To start the show we were introduced to the new play-by-play man for ECW since Mike Adamle left....Todd Grisham. Oh god, ECW is turning into Heat! Anyway Grisham's first act as the voice of ECW was to clear all confusion up on whether Tazz, his broadcast counterpart, was to be appropriately called "Tazz" or "the Tazz". Then Tazz said not to use the latter and stared at Grisham as if was going to ingest all 120 lbs of him. To start the real show Matt Hardy came out to address his gaining of a title shot at Summerslam. After some banter, ECW Champion Mark Henry came out with his manager Tony Atlas. Atlas started talking about Summerslam (I think, Tony tends to get lost in translation.) Eventually, Mark Henry bent a metal bar and said that was going to be Hardy at Summerslam. Then Matt Hardy says he Henry can break his bones but not his spirit (imagine the Wrestlemania marquee, Mark Henry Vs. Matt Hardy's spirit. This led to a commercial. (Segment Rating: 1.5 out of 5)

2. Back from break, "The Latin Assassin" Ricky Ortiz def. Chavo Guerrero Jr. in 5:00 by DQ when Bam Neely was caught cheating for Chavo. Nothing special, Ortiz has potential. After the match, Chavo and Bam attacked Ortiz when Evan Bourne eventually came down and saved him. "Bourne has been a thorn [in Chavo's side]," said Grisham, in Adamlesque fashion. Backstage, Henry and Atlas were approached by Colin Delaney who they abandoned last week during his match and loss to Tommy Dreamer. They said that Colin can stick around with them if he "softens up" Matt Hardy for Henry tonight. (Seg. Rating: 2)

3. Back from commercial, John Morrison and the Miz def. Finlay and Hornswoggle in 12:00 when Morrison gave Hornswoggle a "Sitout Facebuster". The match ended prematurely when Hornswoggle tagged himself in when Finlay was about to seal the deal. Hopefully, this is Finlay turning on his "son" for two reasons: one- Finlay is an awesome heel, two- Hornswoggle can't be on TV forever. Anyway, after the loss, Mike Knox came out of the crowd and brutalized Finlay a tad to take the show to commercials. (Seg. Rating: 2.5)

4. Backstage, Mike Knox was interviewed concerning the ambush. He claimed Finlay had gone soft. Knox then "took his shot". Nice tidbit of a promo. Then after a SNME plug, Chris Harris, whoops, Braden Walker was backstage telling Matt Hardy was in his corner for no apparent reason. The whole Hardy-Walker bit came off as if they were a closet couple. (Seg. Rating: 1)

5. Matt Hardy def. Colin Delaney in 4:00 with a "Twist of Fate" after the commercial break. Nothing altogether shocking or important until after the match. Henry and Atlas entered the ring. Immediately, Henry gave Delaney a huge "Gorilla Press" out of the ring. Then Matt Hardy got into fighting stance. Henry and Atlas proceeded to leave. And as they walked up the ramp, Henry shouted several things at Hardy including, "Constantly wasting my time." Mark is classic. Anticlimactic end to say the least. (Seg. Rating: 2.5)

Hits: Mike Knox, Mark Henry, Tag team match including the end, Miz and Morrison
Misses: Chavo Vs. Ortiz, Delaney in limbo, Braden Walker's awkward speech
Tweeners: Matt Hardy, Todd Grisham (I mean who doesn't enjoy an awful announcer here and there. Adamle is definitely entertaining amongst the constant lack of knowledge and stupidity. The best bad announcer has to be Bruno Sammartino from Herb Abrams' UWF. Bruno constantly said, "Oh, what an Albow Smash!" Verne and Greg Gagne are also contenders).
Overall ECW Rating: 1.5 out of 5 stars

Raw Review (July 28)

1. John Cena came out to settle things with Batista, who he punched in a main event brawl last week. Eventually after being invited by Cena, Batista, the hometown boy, came out to set things straight. Then for a couple of minutes they argued on who should get the next title shot against CM Punk, but during the debate John Cena ended up challenging Batista for a battle tonight. This brought Shane McMahon out, and after he did his signature dance, he had a lot of announcements. First, he confirmed that he and sister, Stephanie, had appointed a new General Manager to be shown later. Second, the match between CM Punk and the "hottest free agent in our business today" (apparently not a title match) was set. After that, a huge tag team bout was booked with JBL and Kane challenging Batista and John Cena, bringing an end to segment one. (Segment Rating: 2 out of 5)

2. Segment two started with a recap of the Santino-Beth kissing scene aired last week followed by an interaction backstage between the two. This brought us to the tag team match. Santino and Beth Phoenix def. D-Lo Brown and Kelly Kelly in 2:00 when Santino rolled up Kelly Kelly. The match was short, but after the bout we got a duplicate of Beth and Santino's performance from last week. Once again, both counterparts found each other in a lip-lock. (Seg. Rating: 3.5)

3. Coming back from commercial break, JBL was found in new GM's locker room arguing with Shane McMahon over his status in the World Title mix-up. Shane finally ended the debate when he told Bradshaw to take it up with the GM when he arrives. Next, we went to the ring for a World Tag Team Title match pitting Champions Rhodes and DiBiase against veterans Jerry Lawler and Jim Duggan who have been in a struggle over respect with the Champions for two weeks. However, the new GM had changed the match. No longer would Hacksaw Jim Duggan be in action, but Jerry Lawler's partner would be Michael Cole!!! (Seg. Rating: 0, too short to register)

4. Back from commercial, Champions Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase Jr. def. Jerry Lawler and Michael Cole in 2:00 when Rhodes clotheslined Cole to retain the titles. The match served its purpose, and I liked the fact that WWE took a risk and left the match without announcers. It is also great to see Jerry Lawler work a better match then some main-eventers at age 58. Commercial. (Seg. Rating: 3)

5. Back from the break, Mike Adamle joins Jerry Lawler at the announcer's desk due to Cole's injury. After a the introduction of announcers and Mike Adamle being clueless of why he was there, Jamie Noble challenged Kofi Kingston, who he called "Coffee Kingston", to a Intercontinental Title match. IC Champ Kofi Kingston def. Jamie Noble in 2:00 with a spinning heel kick to retain. (Seg. Rating: 2.5)

6. JBL joined the Adamle and Lawler at the desk when we came back from the break to announce Punk's match. So who is this free agent? WILLIAM REGAL. World Champion CM Punk def. William Regal in 4:00 with a "Go 2 Sleep" in a non-title match. It is great to see Regal back. The match wasn't half bad, it should be fun to see the development of Regal. When the match ended, JBL confronted Punk in the ring when Kane interfered in the confrontation. The three traded some blows that eventually led to a Punk on his back and a staredown between Kane and Layfield leading to commercials. (Seg. Rating: 3)

7. Chris Jericho came out with Lance Cade for the advertised final Highlight Reel. His promo started off on the subject of the fans not accepting his new character and how he wanted to abandon his old "party" host persona. He then gave us a video compilation of the Reel's greatest moments. Then, Y2J promised the fans that they will never see Shawn Michaels again after he injured his eye at the Great American Bash. After cutting on Michaels a bit more, he handed the mic to Lance Cade who thanked and honored Chris. After telling Shawn to stay home and raise his children, Jericho threw his hat into the challenge for the World Title followed by a commercial break. Another great promo from Jericho and a great way to end the last Highlight Reel. (Seg. Rating: 3.5)

8. Jim Ross joined Lawler and Adamle at the desk after the break, and as Adamle was, JR was shocked to be on Raw. Apparently, both were told to come to D.C. for the show. Now to ring action. Women's Champion Mickie James def. Jillian Hall in 3:00 with a "DDT" in a non-title match. Katie Lea attacked James, whose father was in the front row, on the outside after the match. She then told the new GM to observe the next IC and Women's Champions, Paul and Katie Lea Burchill. Then a Smackdown recap aired followed by Todd Grisham asking Shane O'Mac for some insight on the new GM, but realizing Grisham is nobody, Shane ignored him. Commercial break. (Seg. Rating: 2.5)

9. Summerslam plug, Saturday Night's Main Event plug, Batista and Cena backstage banter (Seg. Rating: 0, too short to register)

10. Back from break, it was announced that Shawn Michaels would return next week on Raw. Now it's main event time. Batista and John Cena def. Kane and John Bradshaw Layfield in 12:00 when Cena pinned Kane following a "FU". After the match, Shane McMahon came out and announced the new GM......MIKE ADAMLE???!!! Could he be a quality heel GM? I can see that. As his first on-camera act as General Manager, Adamle booked Cena Vs. Batista for Summerslam to end the show. (Seg. Rating: 3.5)

Hits: Santino Marella and Beth Phoenix, Jerry Lawler's skills at 58, Cole getting clotheslined and sidelined, the return of William Regal, Jericho and the final Highlight Reel, main event and No. 1 Contendership race, Katie Lea
Misses: the burial of CM Punk, constant SNME plugging
Tweeners: Adamle as GM (could be a future hit or miss)
Misfires: Jamie Noble, Kofi Kingston
Overall Raw Rating: 2.5 out of 5

ECW Hits and Misses for July 22

Hits
- The Opening Segment: GM Teddy Long presented ECW Champion Mark Henry with the newly crafted belt that was quite a looker. Also, Colin Delaney officially sided with Henry and Tony Atlas. Pretty nice promos by all personalities.
- The Continued Development of Young Talent: First, Evan Bourne defeated James Curtis, and later on, Ricky "The Latin Assassin" Ortiz appeared and had a discussion with Teddy Long. Bourne, who is also know as Matt Sydal, was nice in the aerial department and hopefully Curtis will gain a spot on the roster. In addition, Ortiz is polished on the mic.
- The Main Event: On Tuesday, Finlay, John Morrison, The Miz, and Finlay competed in a fatal four way for an ECW Title shot. Even though it was almost for sure Hardy was going to win, the match was excellent with amazing high spots and thoughtful ring psychology. Hardy pinned Miz and will face Mark Henry for the title at Summerslam. All four men deserve a bonus from WWE for this match. I also find it stunning that Finlay, 49, is still quite agile.
Misses
- Dreamer Vs. Delaney: The match was somewhere around 3 minutes when it easily could have been a main event on ECW sometime in the future. Also, Tommy Dreamer pinned Colin Delaney who just turned heel, halting all of his heat.

Raw Hits and Misses for July 21

Hits
- Chris Jericho and Lance Cade: Cade brings a new development to the Jericho-HBK feud which has been fueled by stellar promos by both men. On Monday, Cade defeated Paul London who sold very well and Y2J excelled on the mic.
- D-Lo Brown's Return: After working several dark matches, D-Lo defeated Santino Marella on Monday during Santino's open challenge. D-Lo returns to the company after 5 years in Japan and TNA as an agent. He has still kept the "Frogsplash (Low Down)" sharp. I hope he gains a worthy position on Raw such as an IC Title challenger.
- IC Title Feud: A mixed tag on Monday, IC Champ Kofi Kingston and Women's Champ Mickie James versus Paul and Katie Lea Burchill, furthered both title feuds. The Burchills are developing well and Kofi and Mickie still have the fans on their sides.
- Duggan and Lawler Versus Rhodes and DiBiase: After being humiliated by the Tag Champs a week earlier, Hacksaw Jim Duggan was announcing his retirement Monday when Jerry Lawler told him to ignore Rhodes and DiBiase, second and third generations prodigies respectively. Duggan is actually enjoyable on the mic as well as the young but ready World Tag Champs. This could be a solid feud considering Jim and Jerry's decision to stay in shape.
- Santino and Beth Phoenix: Two weeks ago on Raw Santino was defeated by Beth Phoenix, the taker of his open challenge. This week, Beth came to ringside during Santino's challenge with D-Lo Brown. After the match, Beth and Santino reluctantly caught themselves in a kiss that sparked the crowd's immediate interest. This skit was nice comedic relief for Raw compared to John Cena's "JBL is poopy." bit two weeks ago.
Misses
- John Cena Pins DiBiase in Six Man Tag: For the past couple of months, WWE has made it a goal to make the tag division seem important. All was almost lost on Raw Monday when John Cena, teamed with Cryme Tyme, pinned one of the Tag Team Champs Ted DiBiase Jr, teamed with his partner Cody Rhodes and JBL. This might signal that WWE is back to their old ways of jobbing out the Tag Champs who are more than worthy of victories.
- The Topsy Turvy Main Event: With Batista and John Cena tangling, it looks like CM Punk's next PPV opponent for the World Title will be JBL, maybe. Its also unknown where Kane will end up by Summerslam, and it isn't even certain that Batista and Cena will face off. Also, Punk really hasn't defeated a huge star. With decisions over only JBL and Snitsky, it is beginning to look as if WWE doesn't trust CM as World Champion. More importantly on Raw, Batista and Punk fought to another no decision. Why couldn't Punk have gotten the win?

TWA 101

In celebration of 101 posts, I have compiled a list of notables to form a 101 class concerning the Wrestling Archive.
Dates:
September 13, 2007: Post number one The History of Professional Wrestling was created.
December 20, 2007: The first comment was received (located on the Break It Down post).
Sometime in January of 2008: The TWA Hall of Fame blog is created and the TWA format changes.
March 29, 2008: The TWA Hall of Fame blog shuts down and both inductions are merged into the Wrestling Archive blog.
April 12, 2008: The Wrestling Archive goes on hiatus due to lack of support.
April 24, 2008: The affiliated blogs Mat Stats and World's Worst Wrestling and their 11 combined posts are merged with the Wrestling Archive.
June 23, 2008: The Wrestling Archive returns with the creation of Ring Reels (originally Video of the Day). Ring Reels is the incorporation of videos from wrestling of today and yesterday.
June 24, 2008: The Voice of Wrestling is posted and becomes the first worded post after the hiatus.
July 5, 2008: TWA announces the return of the TWA Hall of Fame.
July 6, 2008: The Wrestling Archive Hall of Fame officially re-opens and Gorgeous George is announced as the next inductee. Also, TWA Remembers, perspective of careers of those who have passed, becomes part of the TWA blog in looking at Adrian Adonis' career.
July 11, 2008: The first News + Notes post is added.
July 14, 2008: The first installment of TWA Remembers ends with Adonis' biography.
July 16, 2008: TWA Remebers returns with TWA Remembers and Investigates Bruiser Brody. Three days later, that particular installment goes on hiatus and may return soon.
July 19, 2008: TWA Honors, a look at the careers of living legends, is created and becomes part of the blog with the examination of the career of Abdullah the Butcher.
July 22, 2008: The 100th post is created.
Numbers:
Posts: 101
Comments: 5 (Come on people)
Ring Reels: 28
Layouts: Too many to count
Current Dedication:
As of now, I can say that this blog isn't going away anytime soon. To completely convince me, I need more comments. Then, TWA will flourish. Currently, I am in the process of syndicating this blog on WWE Fan Nation and Myspace. Feedback would definitely be welcomed. Look forward to more of the Wrestling Archive to come!

Post 100: Happy Birthday Cap!

Recently, legendary manager and wrestling personality Lou Albano turned 75 years old. The Captain was celebrated at La Lanterna restaurant on Sunday. One of the invitees was Jim Fullington, known in the wrestling world as the Sandman. Fullington is (maybe was) a longtime friend of the Captain's. The party started quietly with Lou surrounded by family and his closest wrestling peers from his almost 40-year career. Sandman delivered a touching toast concerning his friend around 5:00 p.m. Chaos broke lose as the gang of around 150 entered the restaurant located in Yonkers, New York City. All of the sudden Fullington emerged as the Sandman we all know from ECW. He began swatting at lights and being loud. The owner of the restaurant, TJ Tarone, wasn't pleased and ran after Sandman. That's when Gary "Pitbull" Wolfe and Tim "The Zombie" Roberts, wrestling peers, consoled Sandman outside the Yonkers eatery. Then, as several witnesses claim, Tarone forcefully hit Sandman with a beer bottle, drawing blood. Soon after Tarone was the subject of a high speed chase to the back of the restaurant by Sandman. While hurling dishes at the owner, Sandman was approached by armed cops who had just arrived. After throwing bottles at cops, Sandman was arrested and charged with several misdemeanors and second degree assault, a felony. Sandman, showing a bruised face from the previous night awoke in a Westchester jail Monday. What a birthday gift for Captain Lou Albano! Also in celebration, you are reading the 100th post of the Wrestling Archive!

Ring Reels: Abdullah the Butcher Vs. Dusty Rhodes Vs. Terry Funk (3PW - Part 2)

Ring Reels: Abdullah the Butcher Vs. Dusty Rhodes Vs. Terry Funk (3PW - Part 1)

The Butcher Shop Hasn't Closed

Last year, the World Wrestling Council dedicated their annual Anniversary event to Abdullah the Butcher. Decades earlier, Abdullah, whose real name is Larry Shreve, debuted in WWC and was an instant classic. Form throwing chairs to stabbing people with his signature fork, Butcher had no limits. The amazing thing is that he continues to do so today. Mostly appearing in Japan, Abdullah continues to fork and claw. At age 67, the 300-plus pounder also maintains two successful and popular restaurants named "Abdullah the Butcher's House of Ribs and Chinese Food." Even more spectacularly, even to this day it is hard to witness an Abdullah bout that doesn't feature him shedding blood. In doing so, Shreve has paved the way for future hardcore legends like Necro Butcher, who he faced at an NWA Southwest event a few years back. Thanks Abdullah for leaving behind an unforgettable legacy and sicking around to add to it.

Ring Reels: Tony Atlas' Take on the Brody Controversy

News + Notes for This Week

- Rob Van Dam and Bill Goldberg have been named to appear on Hulk Hogan's celebrity wrestling show airing on CMT this fall.
- Either Michelle McCool or Natalya will come out as the inaugural WWE Divas Title holder this Sunday at the Great American Bash.
- TNA personality Jeremy Borash officially announced that Daivari has been signed by Total Nonstop Action.
- Jesse Ventura decided not to run for the US Senate seat.
- Andre the Giant, Hulk Hogan, and Bobby Heenan have been confirmed for the roster of WWE Legends of Wrestlemania, due to release in March of '09.
- Comedy Central has posted a fairly amusing list of possible running mates for Vice President that are wrestlers click here to view it.
- Randy Orton and wife Samantha announced the birth of their daughter Alanna.
- Florida Championship Wrestling has announced its move to South Tampa. In addition to leaving Port Richey, Todd Grisham will call the shots early on.

Ring Reels: King Kong Brody Vs. Leon White (AWA From 1986)

The Birth of King Kong Brody

Many people know Frank Goodish for being Bruiser Brody. However for some time in the mid-1980s, Goodish was unable to use the name. This occurred after a bout with Dick the Bruiser. Dick wrestled Brody for the moniker "Bruiser." Unfortunately for Goodish, he lost the match. Thus he began wrestling under the name King Kong Brody. This is what most American Wrestling Association fans know him as. As King Kong Brody, he worked in the AWA with Sheik Adnan Al-Kaisee. Eventually, he began working under the name Bruiser Brody again and confusion was cleared up.

Ring Reels: Bruiser Brody Vs. Abdullah the Butcher (Last Match)

Twenty Years Ago

July 16 is one of the darkest and controversial days in wrestling history. Twenty years ago today, Bruiser Brody was et to contest Abdullah the Butcher and Dan Spivey in a match in Puerto Rico for the World Wrestling Council. Before entering the shower, Brody was approached by Jose Huertas Gonzales, know as Invader I. Huertas was reportedly carrying a knife in a towel and wanted to question Brody on his position in the company. Huertas had become part of the booking committee and was a good ally of wrestler and promoter Carlos Colon. Colon was apparently upset with Bruiser for wrestling on his own terms and the rumors of him trying to buy or takeover the company. Brody refused to talk to Huertas who supposedly grabbed Brody by the hair and stabbed him several times in the chest and stomach. When discovered, Brody was rushed to a San Juan medical facility but it was too late. Bruiser Brody, whose real name was Frank Goodish, died during a second surgery hours after the incident. Eventually, Jose Huertas Gonzales went to trial. However, he was acquitted after his attorney showed the judge photographs from Brody's matches. Witnessing the intensity of Bruiser's bouts, the judge deemed Gonzales innocent due to his belief of self-defense against Brody's "insanity." After the ruling, several top wrestlers from America and inside Puerto Rico ceased working in the country for their own safety and their disagreement with the trial. After the trial was over, Manny Fernandez stirred up controversy in Puerto Rico. In a match with Invader III, friend and tag team partner of Gonzales, Fernandez allegedly paid Gonzales back by giving three knees to Invader III's chest and stomach causing him to cough up a large amount of blood. Even though it is often considered a work, Fernandez claims it was real and wishes III would have died to prove it. Ramifications of the murder were felt elsewhere. In Japan several angles were conducted that ended in a fake murder and the appearance of bloody knives. It has been proven that the storylines were used to lure Jose Huertas Gonzales to Japan so that he could be killed. The fallout of the event left a dark shadow over not only Puerto Rican wrestling but also wrestling all over the world. Still, today, wrestlers and fans alike believe that Huertas was given an undeserved break and should have been jailed. More seriously, the wrestling world lost a brilliant wrestler and an unbreakable personality in Frank Goodish. Bruiser Brody was forty-two and is still severely missed.

Ring Reels: DiBiase and Rhodes Criticize Hacksaw Jim Duggan

The Next Generation

Last night on Raw, Cody Rhodes and Ted DiBiase Jr., the WWE Tag Team Champions, cut another amazing promo. Once again they claimed that they hold the most potential of anyone in the business (a definite argument). They also clamored that they were better than their respective fathers Dusty Rhodes and Ted DiBiase. So Hacksaw Jim Duggan came out to set them straight. Duggan was demanding their respect of elders (or at least veterans like Hardcore Holly.) Rhodes then ripped Duggan by telling him he was a bothersome 54-year old that tries to relive his glory days, which Cody continued by saying they weren't to glorious to begin with. They then left a disappointed and abused alone in the ring. Overall, it was a good job for both of the youngsters, and Jim Duggan gets a deserving thumbs up to for having the courage to let them destroy him on TV (something Hulk Hogan would never do.) If there is one, two rather, careers to watch in the future, they are definitely Rhodes and DiBiase. They are truly "priceless".

Legends of Wrestlemania Update

Yesterday, several announcements were made concerning the upcoming WWE Legends of Wrestlemania video game in 2009. Three stars were confirmed for the game's release - Hulk Hogan, Andre the Giant, and manger Bobby "The Brain" Heenan. They are said to be a part of a 40-plus roster that includes several legendary managers.By viewing the trailer, it is also apparent that the classic blue cage is available to use. The game's trailer also features a sneak peek of the Wrestlemania Tour mode that features the event's most popular matches being introduced by old footage of the original bout. In the game, you will also be to create your very own legend. The game is planned to be released around the time of Wrestlemania XXV. WWE officials are very hyped of the game and slate it to be a major success.

Ring Reels: The Debut of The "Adorable" Adrian Adonis

TWA Remembers Adrian Adonis: The Life and Times

Born Keith Franke, he was trained by Fed Atkins and debuted in 1974 under his birth name. By the end of the decade, though, Franke became known as Adrian Adonis. Clad like a biker, the American Wrestling Association welcomed him not long after the name change. In 1979, he joined Jesse Ventura to form the East-West Connection. Adonis was a native while, on the other hand, Ventura was billed from California. On July 20, 1980, Verne Gagne and Mad Dog Vachon were forced to forfeit their AWA World Tag Team Titles after not defending them and the Connection were awarded the belts. After gaining the straps, the High Flyers, Jim Brunzell and Greg Gagne, became their most fierce challengers. The High Flyers ultimately were able to capture the titles for Adonis and Ventura on June 14, 1981. The team then jumped to the World Wrestling Federation and became singles wrestlers in addition to tag teaming. Adrian became a fortunates singles wrestler by challenging Bob Backlund for the World Championship and Pedro Morales for the Intercontinental Championship. After Jesse Ventura ventured elsewhere and retired due to medical issues, Dick Murdoch emerged as Adrian's partner to form the North-South Connection. After debuting only months earlier, WWF Tag Champs Rocky Johnson and Tony Atlas fell victim to the new Connection, and Murdoch and Adonis were already champions. After holding the belts for nearly a year, the US Express (Mike Rotundo and Barry Windham) took their gold in January of 1985. After touring the Orient, the team split. Adonis then began a complete career metamorphosis. First, he dropped the previously acquired manager Bobby Heenan and replaced him with Jimmy Hart. After moderate success with Hart, Adrian appeared on Piper's Pit soon after and gave the host Roddy Piper his signature leather jacket. Thus, "Adorable" Adrian Adonis, a flamboyant and effeminate character, was born. To become more authentic, he bleached his dark black hair blond, began sporting pink dresses and attire, and wearing make-up. After putting on several pounds, Adonis embarked on feuds with George Steele, Junkyard Dog, and on numerous occasions, challenged Hulk Hogan for the coveted WWF Championship. The Flower Shop was created in May of 1986 as Adonis' answer to the absent Piper's Pit. Also in riding Piper's coattails, Adonis hired "Ace" Bob Orton Jr., Roddy's former protection, as his bodyguard. The feud accumulated between Piper and Adonis when Adrian, accompanied by Orton and Don Muraco, attacked Piper and his set. Also, the group adorned Piper's mouth with bright red lipstick. One week following, Piper stormed onto the Flower Shop set and dismantled with a Louisville Slugger. The date was set for the showdown as Wrestlemania 3 in a hair vs. hair match. Adonis lost the match to Piper and in the process lost his golden mane. After the bout, he challenged Brutus Beefacke, who played a part in the loss of his hair, to a series of matches. This feud marked his departure from the WWF. Adrian then wound up back in the AWA. After feuds with Tommy Rich and Greg Gagne, Adonis aspired to make a tour with New Japan Pro Wrestling. However, Adonis was unable to do so after suffering from an ankle injury. In addition to not being able to compete in NJPW, the AWA ceased his pay, leaving Adonis face-to-face with severe financial woes. sadly, on July 4, 1988, Adrian Adonis was tragically killed along with Pat Kelly and Dave McKigney in a road accident in Newfoundland. Adonis left behind one of the most underrated and overlooked careers in the history of pro wrestling. In 1988, he deservedly and posthumously received Pro Wrestling Illustrated's Editor's Award. Adrian Adonis, you are remembered.

TNA Victory Road Results

1. Alex Shelley won a 12-man elimination match to put his team, Team TNA, in the lead of the X Cup.
2. Gail Kim def. Angelina Love in a grudge match.
3. Sonjay Dutt def. Jay Lethal in a grudge match.
4. TNA World Tag Team Champions LAX def. Beer Money in a Fans' Revenge Match to retain their titles.
5. TNA Knockouts Champion Taylor Wilde def. Awesome Kong to retain her title.
6. Volador Jr. def. Daivari, Zaz, and Naruki Doi in an Ultimate X match that gave Team Mexico the X Cup.
7. Kurt Angle and Team 3D def. AJ Styles, Rhyno, and Christian Cage in a Full Metal Mayhem match.
8. TNA World Champion Samoa Joe and Booker T wrestled to a no contest when the match went to chaos with the interference of Sharmell and Sting.

Ring Reels: Adonis & Murdoch Vs. Inoki & Fujinami (1984 - Part 4)

Tag Team of the Week - July 13

Finlay and Hornswoggle

On Tuseday, the team of Hornswoggle and Finlay scored a non-title victory over World Tag Champs John Morrison and the Miz. On Friday, Hornswoggle defeated The Miz in a singles bout.

Ring Reels: Adonis & Murdoch Vs. Inoki & Fujinami (1984 - Part 3)

TWA HOF: Class of '08 - Gorgeous George

Who is the greatest heel of all-time? The great debate could last for eternity.There are front-runners like Ric Flair, Roddy Piper, Randy Savage, and certainly Gorgeous George. Gorgeous George was a pioneer of his trade and was destined to put heels on the map. Born George Wagner, he broke into pro wrestling by visits to the YMCA and competing in carnivals like many others of his era. After dropping out of school three years earlier, the 17-year old Wagner got his first break getting booked by the area's top promoter Morris Seigel. Soon, Wagner gained the region's Middleweight and Light Heavyweight crowns. After meeting her in the business, he married Betty Hanson, but not in an ordinary ceremony. They were married in the squared circle, and the attraction become so popular that the couple performed it across the country. It was during that time that he read an article in Vanity magazine chronicling the flamboyant character of Lord Patrick Landsdowne who would be accompanied to the ring by two valets while sporting a long and fancy robe. Wagner decided to modify the character to his own liking and thus, Gorgeous George was born. At a Eugene, Oregon event in 1941, Wagner unveiled the gimmick by taunting the fans effeminately resulting in the ring announcer calling him "Gorgeous George". His flamboyance attracted great attention, and he became a big draw. "The Human Orchid", as he was called, was drawn to the Los Angeles area where he started to pull the character together. He grew long hair which was dyed bright, platinum blonde and held together with "Georgie" pins. Next, he adopted "Pomp and Circumstance" as his entrance music, which was extremely rare and unheard-of at the time. Jeffries was chosen as his valet who would follow him to the ring, leaving rose petals behind every step he took. He then assisted the brightly-dressed George by removing the robe and disinfecting the ring with the self-proclaimed "Chanel No.10" perfume. Often shouting "Get your filthy hands off me!" at the fans, George was hated even more for his in-ring tactics which were illegal and underhanded. Living by the motto "Win if you can, lose if you must, but always cheat!", he easily attracted the most "heat" of any wrestler ever at the time and became one of the country's top draws. Georgeous George made his television debut on November 11, 1947 and quickly became a nationwide celebrity. With the emergence of George on the tube, wrestling was elevated to unknown areas and completely new levels. Gone was the roughness and toughness of ring action and in was the glitz and glamor of the television era. Gorgeous George became the sole reason for many purchases of TV sets. As his following picked up, so did his success. The heel first earned the Los Angeles Heavyweight Title in March 1947 by defeating Enrique Torres. He brought wrestling back to Madison Square Garden for the first time in twelve years on February 22, 1949. During this time, George began earning half of what was gained at the front gate of most wrestling cards he appeared on, making him the country's highest paid wrestler and athlete. On May 6, 1950, George beat Don Eagle for the Boston version of the AWA World Heavyweight Title which he would lose to the legendary Lou Thesz in a monumental bout in the "Windy City". His most public bout would be in March 1959 when he lost his golden blonde hair to Whipper Billy Watson at the Maple Leaf Gardens. Towards the end of his career, the up-and-coming Bruno Sammartino would defeat him followed by a loss to the Destroyer in a hair vs. mask match that lost him his golden mane once again. The bout was held on November 7, 1962, and would be the last match for George Wagner who was ordered to retire after 30 years of both in-ring and alcohol abuse. After his wrestling career came to an end, he had a 195-acre turkey ranch built in his resident California. He presented many of his prized turkeys at wrestling events before building "Gorgeous George's Ringside Restaurant" in Van Nuys, California. Soon after the end of his in-ring career, George had become broke due to alcoholism and meaningless investments. On December 26, 1963, George Wagner passed away after a fatal heart attack. Wagner left behind four children and a second wife. He also left an irreplaceable legacy. His character was duplicated by the likes of Buddy Rogers, Freddie Blassie, the "Nature Boy" Ric Flair, and countless others. Muhammad Ali, James Brown, and Bob Dylan also claimed to have been widely influenced the ways of George. To be completely honest, every heel to ever enter the ring was greatly impacted by Gorgeous George. He may be without a doubt the greatest heel ever, bring the argument to an end. "That's not gonna happen because I'm th greatest wrestler in the world!" George once exclaimed in promotion for a bout against Freddie Blassie. At one time, that was the complete truth. Gorgeous George won't be remembered as a Champion or a favorite, but as a pioneer and one of the greatest heel in pro wrestling's existence.

Ring Reels: Adonis & Murdoch Vs. Inoki & Fujinami (1984 - Part 2)

News + Notes from This Week

- In the past week, WWE and TNA have both said goodbye to some of their talent. Last Thursday, Trevor Murdoch was released by World Wrestling Entertainment after recently being drafted to Smackdown. Earlier this week, TNA announced that they would be sending Scott D'Amore on his way in the very near future. D'Amore, former manager of Team Canada, had been working as the TNA Knockout Division agent. The same day, James Mitchell, the sadistic former manager of Abyss, was released from his TNA contract after not appearing for months. And finally, Wednesday, Ashley Massaro, a WWE Diva, was let go apparently to aid her ill daughter. It might be expected that more wrestlers or other stars will be fired.
- The suspensions of Jimmy Wang Yang and William Regal are about to come to an end, and it is expected that the WWE should reinstate them soon.
- On Tuesday, WWE Home Video released Ric Flair: The Definitive Collection. It is the first WWE DVD released that features a documentary.
- WWE Smackdown has been canceled by the Chicago market by the station WGN. WGN, based in Chicago, is airing reruns of the sitcom Alf instead of Smackdown tonight.
- Sunday, Mickie Knuckles, who was to be signed by TNA as "Moose", was injured during an IWA Mid-South event in Joliet, Illinois. She suffered a broken right femur bone while jumping from a balcony. She went under the knife the next day. After a half-year of healing and rehab, it is possible she will be in shape to return to the ring.
- It has been rumored that Essa Rios and Dos Caras Jr. could be signed by WWE for the Smackdown brand. The WWE recently voiced the opinion of bringing more Hispanics to the brnad due to the Hispanic following of the show.
- Yesterday, the Long Island Press broke news of the closing of "Ric Flair Finance". The Nature Boy had opened the business last fall and had been looking to close out for quite some time due to the weak economy.

Ring Reels: Adonis & Murdoch Vs. Inoki & Fujinami (1984 - Part 1)

TWA Remembers Adrian Adonis: The Tag Teams

-The East-West Connection
Adrian Adonis first established himself in the American Wrestling Association, but not as a singles wrestler. He teamed up with Jesse "The Body" Ventura to become the East-West Connection. The heel tandem was an immediate success. They were awarded the AWA World Tag Team Titles on July 20, 1980. Their main enemies were the team of Jim Brunzell and Greg Gagne - the High Flyers. The feud was one of the most engrossing for the fans. They eventually lost the titles nearly one year later to Brunzell and Gagne.
-The North-South Connection
After leaving the AWA, Adrian Adonis joined the World Wrestling Federation. There he remained a tag team specialist. His next partner in crime was "Dirty" Dick Murdoch. As was Adrian's AWA team, the N-S Connection was successful. The won the WWF World Tag Team Titles in April of 1984. Their reign came to an end in January 1985. The team broke up shortly after.

Ring Reels: Adrian Adonis in the American Wrestling Association

"An Astonishing Turn of Events"

Readers this is the first, and maybe the last time, a post will begin with a quote from Mike Adamle. "An astonishing turn of events" was Adamle's reaction to Tony Atlas, a WWE Hall of Fame inductee, allying himself with the self-proclaimed "World's Strongest Champion" Mark Henry. This occurred in a non-title bout between Henry and Tommy Dreamer. Henry was about to attack Colin Delaney, Dreamer's protege, when special guest announcer Tony Atlas did the job for him. Atlas then celebrated the supposed victory with the fellow strong man (Atlas was once Mr.USA). It is currently unknown whether Atlas will become the ECW Champion Henry's manager or if this was a one-off deal. If he does join Mark as his manager, I would be disappointed if they take promo time away from Henry because he is quite a polished talker. I find it rather weird that they would bring in Tony Atlas as a manage because of the company's lack of the role. He could be met by Paul Bearer. Bearer has been rumored to possibly return after Kane's "Is he alive or is he dead?" rant on Raw last Monday. I certainly hope he is the subject of Kane's craze instead of the other rumored names (Vince McMahon and the Undertaker.) Well, it seems we will have to tune into WWE programming Monday and Tuesday to see the fallout of both storylines.

Ring Reels: Adrian Adonis Vs. Junkyard Dog

The Death of the AWA

In 1991, Verne Gagne made the heartbreaking decision to shut the doors of his American Wrestling Association. The company, founded in 1957, had become one of the last remaining traditional promotions. Based out of Minnesota, the AWA provided countless memories, and likewise, controversy."If I read one more sour wrestling book from a lonesome old wrestler who didn't save his money and is peed off because everybody cheated him, everybody did this to him, and everything did this to him, I'm gonna throw up," Blackjack Mulligan said of Verne Gagne. Gagne is generally blamed for the closure of his wrestling promotion, but it might not be completely fair to point a finger at him for everything. Several factors brought the AWA to an end. The following paragraphs are devoted to explanation of the factors.
Reason number one: By the mid-eighties, the AWA was running on fumes in terms of talent. Veterans like Jerry Blackwell, Nick Bockwinkel, and Baron Von Raschke hung on to wrestling well past their prime and continued to deteriorate. Therefore, a slew of new talent was introduced to the AWA. The answers to the disappearance of talent were wrestlers such as Mitch Snow, Kevin Kelly, Steve Olsonowski, and Nick Kiniski. However, all aforementioned youngsters struggled to stay relevant and were deprived of star quality. Future stars such as Marty Jannetty, Shawn Michaels, Curt Hennig, and Scott Hall were brought in and were strongly successful, but due to guaranteed money by the then-WWF, all promising young stars ventured elsewhere. Eventually, the AWA ran out of worthy stars and their roster dwindled significantly.
Reason number two: Towards the end of the eighties, the World Wrestling Federation began taking leaps and bounds like no other company. They had broken out of their territorial phase and become a conglomerate. On the other hand, the AWA remained conscious of old school patterns. On their television programs, flashy graphics and meaningful matches were replaced with stale production methods and hard-to-watch squashes. Their outlook seemed to vintage to popularize which conceived a lack of interest by several crucial markets. A lack of progression hindered the AWA from growth.
Reason number three: The Gagne name lived on in the squared circle when Verne's son Greg debuted in his father's promotion. Greg first established himself in a popular, championship-winning tag team with Jim Brunzell. Once the team dissolved upon Brunzell's departure, Greg's push as a singles wrestler began, and for the remainder of the company's existence, the second generation Gagne remained one of the AWA's major stars even though he had dismal charisma and an extremely small stature. Greg Gagne's position in the company earned his father the reputation of nepotism. After Greg became a star, Larry Zbyszko, Verne's son-in-law, entered the AWA. Larry often criticized for being boring and predictable, gained the AWA World Title twice furthering Verne's label of nepotism.
Reason number four: In attempt to raise pro wrestling to a completely new level, the WWF started creating phenomenons in the wrestling world. With the introduction of big-time Pay-per-views like Wrestlemania, the Survivor Series, and the Royal Rumble, the AWA started to feel the pressure. Therefore they responded with the creation of SuperClash and the Team Challenge Series. SuperClash was conceived as the meeting of several companies for a joint card that would out-perform the WWF. Jim Ross called the idea a "joke" and agreed with his employer Mid-South Wrestling when they declined entry into the event. In four installments of the event, very few gems can be found. One quality match is a AWA/WCCW title unification bout between Jerry Lawler and Kerry Von Erich at SuperClash III. The event stemmed controversy, though, as several competitors, including the AWA Champion Jerry Lawler, claimed to have never received compensation. The Team Challenge Series was configured by splitting the entire active roster into three teams. Each individual wrestler would gain points for their respective teams by winning matches. The idea wasn't received well, and the nearly yearlong event is pointed out as a major error by the AWA.
Reason number five: Months before the closing of the AWA, the state of Minnesota contacted Verne Gagne with sad news. The government desired to turn Gagne's property located next to Lake Minnetoka into a public park. In hopes of saving his lakeside residence, Verne acquired the services of several expensive attorneys. Ultimately, he lost the court case, and the Lake Minnetoka Regional Park was constructed. The loss of the case deprived Gagne, who had already filed for bankruptcy, from a large amount of money. This left the American Wrestling Association starving for cash that wasn't available. Not long after, the company met its end.
So, in closing, numerous things brought the kayfabe-era promotion to an end. Other unknown factors could have determined the company's fate, but known factors give imminent proof on why the AWA ceased to exist. Everything melded together to bring the walls of Verne's promotion crashing down. The American Wrestling Association was a victim of time.

Ring Reels: Roddy Piper on the Flower Shop

TWA Remembers Adrian Adonis: The Flower Shop

In May 1986, Adrian Adonis became one of the most hated heels in the World Wrestling Federation. At the time, Piper's Pit, hosted by "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, was on hiatus for a number of months. "Adorable" Adrian was the answer as he became the flamboyant host of the Flower Shop. Appearing as a florist, Adonis interviewed the WWF's most popular heels and superstars including Paul Orndorff and Hulk Hogan. In the infamous Orndorff segment, Adonis tried his best to convince Paul that Hogan wasn't accepting his talents. Later on, "Ace" Bob Orton Jr., Piper's former bodyguard, began sporting a pink cowboy hat as Adonis' protection. When Piper eventually returned, Adonis, Orton, and Don Muraco brutalized the "Hot Rod" by injuring his leg and forcing him to wear lipstick. The onslaught didn't stop there as the trio demolished the Pit set. One week later, Piper retaliated with a baseball bat that dismantled the Flower Shop. Piper continued the feud by injuring "Adorable" Adrian and sidelining him for a month. The feud came to an end when Roddy took Adonis' hair in a Wrestlemania 3 bout. Soon after, Adonis disappeared from the Federation and his Flower Shop left behind irreplaceable memories and a forgettable feud.

Ring Reels: AWA TV Title Match - Greg Gagne Vs. Adrian Adonis (1988 - Part 2)

TWA Remembers Adrian Adonis: Career Snapshot

Real Name: Keith Franke;
Ring Name: "Adorable" Adrian Adonis
Height: 5'11" Weight: 245-400 + lbs.
Born: September 15, 1954
Died: July 4, 1988
Birthplace: New York City
Place of Death: Newfoundland, Canada
Debut: 1974 Trained By: Fred Atkins
Finisher: Goodnight, Irene
Managed By: Bobby Heenan, Freddie Blassie, "The Mouth of the South" Jimmy Hart, Paul E. Dangerously, Sir Oliver Humperdink
Titleography: AWA World Tag Team Title (w/ Jesse Ventura), WWF Tag Team Title (w/ Dick Murdoch), NWA Pacific Northwest Tag Team Title (w/ Ron Starr), NWA Americas Heavyweight Title, NWA Americas Tag Team Title (2 - 1 w/Roddy Piper, 1 w/ Black Gordman), SCW World Heavyweight Title, SCW Southwest Heavyweight Title
Accomplishments: PWI Editor's Award (1988), Wrestling Observer's Most Improved Wrestler (1981), PWI's Most Underrated Wrestler (1982), PWI ranked him #128 of the 500 best singles wrestlers of the PWI Years in 2003, PWI ranked the team of Dick Murdoch and him #35 of the 100 best tag teams in PWI Years in 2003, PWI ranked the team of Jesse Ventura and him #67 of the 100 best tag teams in PWI Years in 2003

Ring Reels: AWA TV Title Match - Greg Gagne Vs. Adrian Adonis (1988 - Part 1)

Celebration and Mourning

Yesterday, commemorating the birth of the United States, Americans all across the country celebrated in unison. With the thrill of fireworks and the joy of other festivities, it is a day to remember for several families. It is also, on a darker note, a day to remember for the wrestling industry. On July 4, 1988, Mike Kelly, his twin brother Pat, Dave McKigney, and Adrian Adonis were gathered in a mini-van in Newfoundland, Canada. In avoidance of colliding with a moose, Kelly accidentally veered the car into a lake. The crash tragically took the lives of Pat Kelly, McKigney, and Adonis, leaving Mike Kelly, who had badly crushed legs, the only survivor. On year after the accident, another automobile crash nearly took the lives of Davey Boy Smith, Chris Benoit, and Jason the Terrible in Alberta, Canada. The most serious injury resulted in Smith gaining 1,000 stiches. For the third year in 1990, a pro wrestler faced hardship on Independence Day. Ed Leslie, aka Brutus Beefcake, suffered from serious facial injuries after a parceling accident in Florida. Leslie underwent reconstructive surgery in which he received steel plates, 40 screws, and countless staples. Four years later, the heart of the wrestling world sunk again. Joey Marella, son of the late great Gorilla Monsoon, had been a WWE referee for nearly a decade when another tragic car accident took his life. So, as most people joyously look at the beautiful fireworks on the 4th of July, wrestlers everywhere mourn the memories of their lost friends. Simply stated, triumph and tragedy.
This month learn more about "Adorable" Adrian Adonis as TWA Remembers.

The TWA Hall of Fame

Earlier this year, Lou Thesz and Ric Flair became the first inductees into the TWA Hall of Fame. Starting this month, one wrestler (or tag team) will be inducted into the Hall of Fame every month. Also expect a TWA Hall of Fame blog in the future. It is also my esteemed honor to announce the July inductee - Gorgeous George, to be inducted later in July. Thank You and keep reading TWA.

Ring Reels: Steel Cage Match - Bruno Sammartino & Tito Santana Vs. Adrian Adonis & Randy Savage (1986)

"....Know When to Fold 'Em"

Just a few months ago, Trevor Murdoch was singing "The Gambler", the 1978 Kenny Rogers classic (you know, "know when to hold 'em....). Yesterday, Trevor Murdoch was released by World Wrestling Entertainment. This came a somewhat of a surprise due to Murdoch, who had just gotten turned on by longtime partner Lance Cade, being drafted to Smackdown. It is unknown whether the three-time Tag Team Champion was released for lack of usefulness or something in the sort of a personal offense. Murdoch had developed into quite a talented wrestler. But not long ago, his character took a strange turn as each week he would sing karaoke. Eventually Cade turned on him to join Chris Jericho as an enforcer and Thursday, Trevor was fired. There are currently no rumors if he'll turn up in TNA where he began his mainstream career as a member of the Dupps. Good luck Trevor on future endeavors.

Ring Reels: AWA Championship Wrestling Intro

Vintage Viewings, but Classics?

On February 26, 2008, ESPN Classic began airing AWA Championship Wrestling (circa 1986-1988). When I got word of the announcement of the AWA's airing instead of the UWF which had been re-aired on Classic, I was quite excited. However, I neglected to watch an episode of AWA's 1980's hit until recently. I wasn't missing anything. Packed with jobber matches and lackluster color commentary by the Gagnes, the show is disappointing. Last night I was watching the program, which airs at midnight, and I dozed off in the middle of a bout between Chris Curtis and Steve Olsonoski. Neither of the wrestlers are known outside of perennial viewers of the AWA. And as I type this I realize that the best match was a squash won by Tommy "Wildfire" Rich with a botched "Thez press." The night before, the program was quite a bit stronger, sporting only one true squash and a hefty, but active Adrian Adonis. Yet the show wasn't top notch. There is one constant high spot for the airings - the interviews. The promos are almost always quality material featuring Curt Hennig, Larry Zbyszko, and Nick Bockwinkel. Another bug about AWA Championship Wrestling is the large amount of commercial breaks. So, all in all, the show is a huge letdown. Of course, ESPN isn't respecting it to much with classic rodeo as its lead-in. Nevertheless, it is wrestling, so if there is nothing else on the tube, the die-hard wrestling fan can easily stomach it with all its mediocre matches and meaningless squashes. But I do suggest ESPN look into other libraries such as AWA All-Star Wrestling and, if allowed, it would be amazing to see old editions of WCW Thunder. So if you're restless or seeking sleep, this program is a definite watch.