Last Gasp of the AWA - 1987

[Ritchardo]

<p>Full and honest declaration time: I have some insider knowledge about one or two of the undercard matches. For the interests of not spoiling anything for anyone I am going to make my predictions for the card without any speculation as to the how, whys or wherefores that I'm tipping what I'm tipping, so here goes...</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Superfly Jimmy Snuka</strong> vs Playboy Buddy Rose for world title</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Sgt Slaughter</strong> vs Wahoo McDaniel (64)</p><p> </p><p>

Nick Bockwinkle vs <strong>Arnold</strong> (72)</p><p> </p><p>

Midnight Rockers vs <strong>Fabulous Freebirds</strong> vs Midnight Express - world tag (53)</p><p> </p><p>

Assassin vs <strong>Spoiler</strong> - mask vs mask (46)</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Lawler</strong> vs Norvel - hair vs hair (58)</p><p> </p><p>

LW title <strong>Cocoa Samoa</strong> vs Yamada (?)</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Curt Henning-Greg Gagne</strong> vs Masa Saito-Leon White (40)</p><p> </p><p>

MATCH OF THE NIGHT? Arnold v Bock</p>

[olympia]

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="thunderwill" data-cite="thunderwill" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><strong>SUPERCLASH card projections</strong><p> Something is going to happen, I can just feel it.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> MATCH OF THE NIGHT? </p><p> Snuka vs. Rose. Main Event titles matches will be hard to overcome for match of the night.</p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> yes, SOMETHING will happen/ if you had a chance to check out the Halloween card on the link above (the results were posted there tonight), you know I don't like to miss an opportunity on the big stage to pull at least one big surprise out of the hat (maybe not a far-fetched surprise, but I'll think of something for you).</p><p> </p><p> glad to see so many choices for Match of the Night. Nick had never had a bad night for me, Sarge and Wahoo should turn it up a notch on the big stage, and Snuka-Rose in the main event could blow the doors off (but both can be a little unpredicatble too). </p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div> I have some insider knowledge about one or two of the undercard matches</div></blockquote> <p> Since I haven't actually completed the matches yet, those ideas could change. If you want to expound on your picks, feel free -- without giving away any state secrets (like new wrestler appearance, wrestler turn, or run-ins that I may have shared)</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Overall great card, with some really nice built storylines...Looking forward to where you as we see a chapter ending and another beginning with Superclash</div></blockquote><p> thanks so much!! Hope you are pleased with the final product and everything comes off without a hitch</p><p> </p><p> I'll be running the TV shows up next which gives some time for anyone else to get in their projections</p>

[olympia]

ALL STAR WRESTLING (B show)

828 attend (near sell-out in the Great Lakes)

 

Ron Trongard kicks off the show by hyping the main event on ESPN this week-Sheik Adnan EL Kaissey is hoping to derail Greg Gagne and Curt Henning before Super Clash - he is sending his Russians, Zukov and Ustinov agains them in an effort to soften them up. (51)

 

Video hype for Snuka vs Rose at Super Clash (58 rating which will actually hurt the heat on the match)

 

 

Sgt Slaughter lays down the law when it comes to Wahoo McDaniel. "You've been chasing after me for 2 months now. At Super Clash, it's time to stand toe to toe, nose to nose and find out who the better man is. I'm going to teach your punk protégé a lesson here in a moment, then I'll coming after you Wahoo (62)

 

Sarge vs Mark Young --

avg crowd, decent ring action. Sarge uses his Gut Buster to pin Young at 11:51 (rating - 58)

 

Sarge reminds the fans in Canada that he's coming up there to destroy their national hero, Bulldog Bob Brown (rating - 51)

 

Flying Yamada vs Buddy Wolfe

In an Internet Poll - Keichi "the Flying" Yamada was voted as the best high flyer in the sport today! It's for that reason that he has been selected to challenge for the AWA LW title. Today he takes on Buddy Wolfe to prepare for Cocoa Samoa.

Yamada pins Buddy Wolfe with a Liger Bomb in 9:55. Yamada showed he could go all out, while Wolfe was not up to it and was off his game

(rating -46)

 

Snuka tells the fans he is ready for Rose "After all the talking is done, we'll get it on in the ring. Rose has made me one angry Superfly and he will pay for his transgressions with his blood. He whips the crowd into a frenzy as he says after he beats Rose, he will be defending the AWA World title in Canada against a worthy opponent - baby bull Leon White. (64)

 

Midnight Rockers retain tag titles over Mr Magnificent and Mike Miller - Sherri Martel made an appearance at ringside, and special treat as Paul E AND Don Carson lended expertise at the broadcast table

Rocker Shocker for the win - rating 56

 

TV Main Event: Arnold S terminates Ricky Rice in 13:01. He says he will make short work of Nickie B at Super Clash as well

Rating 52

 

overall show rating = 54

[olympia]

Parade of Champions 4 (73 rating) -

Kevin Von Erich defeats Abdullah the Butcher to retain title (76),

Al Perez & Red River Jack over Skip Young and Tony Atlas (76),

Duo of Doom retain tag titles over Simpsons (53),

Spoiler defeats Frankie Lancaster (53),

Tatum & Victory over Rock & Roll RPM's (42)

*backstage segment between Red River Jack and Fritz Von Erich = 82*; prelim matches Steve Dane over Mike Bond (44); Eric Embry over Spike Huber (38)

 

in indy shows across the country we see: Lars Anderson & J Valiant defeat Jerry Oates & Yokozuna (37), Scott Irwin and Bob Sweetan defeat Dr D David Schults and Bass (46), Slater and Sawyer over Roop and Jules Strongbow (45), Geoff Portz over Norman Smiley (20), Ratymayus and Cook defeat Tom Jones and Hunter (40). Terry Daniels over Johnny Grunge (15), Derrick Dukes over Rex King (12)

News Release that Randy Mulkey is on the rise and a future star to keep an eye on. (LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!)

 

A look at the Regional Battles from last month: #1 World class, #2 Memphis, #3 UWF, #4 Contintal, #5 WWA, #6 PNW, #7 Central States (WWC actually leads, but they are only in SE and PR)

 

And who has the prestige in the US? WWF 90; JCP 84, AWA 82, World Class, 74, WWC 72, UWF 71, Memphis 71, PNW 56, SE-Cont 50, WWA 47, Central States 45. GLOW 21

 

In another major news announcement this week, in an effort to surpass Jim Crockett Promotions in the US, the AWA has outlined plans for a Rock America tour - a 64 man tournament with matches fought all over the country!! The winner will be crowned America's Champion. Wrestlers from every major promotion in America have flooded the AWA offices with calls to enter the event. Details and the brackets for first round matches will be outlined Saturday on ESPN - with plans for the first match to take place at Super Clash in an added attraction!!

[Oldschool]

64 man tournament WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Look forward to seeing you pull this off..

 

Yamada doing a Liger bomb! (shouldnt it be called a Yamada Bomb;-)

 

Doesn tlook like you have JCP or the WWF for that matter to far out in front of you

[olympia]

http://images-partners-tbn.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT0Mv6zDMMJeL6acoDpCIbp9tzm_xGI-nDs22JdJm0QE24RVsyMOv44JQ:z.about.com/d/prowrestling/1/0/X/C/-/-/espn.jpg CHAMPIONSHIP WRESTLING

 

It is SUPER CLASH EVE - less than 24 hours away from the showdown. Whether you're tuning in to watch Arnold vs Bockwinkle or Snuka vs Rose or any of the other great matches, just be sure you tune in. This card is so huge it will be carried throughout the western US on closed circuit tv, so find a venue near you so you don't miss a minute

 

What better way to get us started but to look at some of the events leading up to the hair vs hair match ...video of Lawler and Norvell Austin and his Midnight Express cronies. (74 rating)

 

The Spoiler comes out next to talk about his match with the Assassin:

The Assassin is scared to be in the same building with me. He was scheduled to be here tonight for a tag team match, but he's nowhere to be seen. He not just afraid to show his face, he's afraid to even show his mask!! After tommorrow night, he won't have a mask to hide behind. Col. Debeers and myself will take care of these men he sent to slow us down, but then at Super Clash, I will beat him and I will unmask him! (50)

 

Verne Gagne and Stanley Blackburn want to make a major announcement:

This is the American Wrestling Association, and that means we should be in every American city. We're not just a Midwestern corporation, we are an American legacy. For that reason, we want to annouce a major event that will rock America......a 64 man single elimination tournament with matches to held all across the country. What better name for this event than ROCK AMERICA! At the end, the winner will be named the America's Champion. Wrestlers from across the country have been calling to sign up. The top seeds have been named and We will announce the complete brackets once everyone is signed. For now, we have another match to add to Super Clash just to show the depth of this event. The #3 seed from the North region, a Texas Icon Kerry Von Erich will be taking on a representative from the WWF, former SW champion, former world tag team champion, Adrian Adonis!!!

(64 rating for the match announcement)

 

Spoiler and Col. Debeers vs High Intensity (Blackwell & Brown)

 

match was intended to have the Assassin, but he was not able to get back from Mid-Atlantic in time. Debeers pancakes Brown for the win at 13:21. Solid in-ring action for this one, but still only average heat -- everyone got a bonus for going all-out

rating: 61

 

video of Playboy Buddy Rose working out and getting ready for Snuka (70)

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0fLV758fCik" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

 

Flying Yamada vs Randy Rose

Paul E and his boys looked past this match and to their Super Clash with the Freebirds and Midnight Rockers for the tag titles. As a result, a Flying Yamada Bomb at 13:03 gave us a big upset!! Yamada is on a roll heading into his Super Clash with Cocoa Samoa for the LW title - Paul E did good work at ringside helping Rose, but it was not enough against the high flying Yamada. For anyone who thought Yamada might not be ready for Cocoa Samoa, this match should change their mind.

rating: 62

 

TV TITLE MATCH: Masa Saito vs DJ Peterson

Saito makes his 2nd tv title defense as he pins Peterson with the Prison Lock in 14:07. Peterson was tiring at the end - more good action.

rating: 61

 

Curt Henning and Greg Gagne vs The Russians

Ustinov was only tiring at the end of 9:43 when Gagne puts Zukov out with the sleeper. Henning as he wanted to get the pinfall. The person who wins the match WILL be important at Super Clash as that person would get a TV title shot. However if neither wins, Sheik Adnan, Saito, and Leon White will get a 3-on-1 beatdown on Verne Gagne

Rating: 55

 

Wahoo McDaniel vs GI Jack

good action and avg heat - Sarge interfered trying to help his man, but Wahoo was able to drop him with a chop and then another tomahawk chop to pin GI Jack at 11:16

Rating: 64

 

Sgt Slaughter was visibly upset after this turn of events. "Wahoo - the time for fun and games are over for you. I suggest out match at Super Clash have no rules. The type of match where anything goes, like a Boot camp match would be

rating 79

 

How will Nick Bockwinkle far against a much larger opponent? Well this week's mat classic takes a look back at when AWA champion took on the largest athlete in the world.....Nick Bockwinkle vs Andre the Giant!

 

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/MFnKmGuKti4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

 

Nick Bockwinkle vs Mark Fleming

Nick used this match simply as a tune-up. some good chemistry between these two, Nick wins by sleeper in a good match. New face legend gimmick is 66

match rating: 66

 

Nick celebrates after the match and says he is ready for Arnold at Super Clash (72)

 

Show goes off the air with:

video to hype the SUPER CLASH between Nick and Arnold!

(76 rating)

 

Show rating: 66. some of the angles lifted the show! It was a success and will help our popularity! The show drew a lot of praise

ESPN TV rating: all time high of .18

I hope that bodes well for our first ever PPV broadcast at Super Clash

 

This show helped boost the heat for the main matches. Just a quick look:

Rose vs Snuka from 53 to 65

Sarge vs Wahoo from 55 to 69

Lawler vs Norvell from 50 to 62

Freebirds vs Midnight Express vs Midnight Rockers 36 to 53

Assassin vs Spoiler from 32 to 40

Henning-Gagne vs Scared Hitless from 35-48

Von Erich vs Adonis (59) and Arnold vs Nick (72) have held steady since announced.

[olympia]

I completed the Super Clash card - and as a little teaser, let me just say the Match of the Night will be somewhat of a surprise. Every match was solid which pleased me. I'm working on the write-up for the top matches and will be posting the complete results in next couple days.

[olympia]

<p></p><div style="text-align:center;"><span>http://cdn101.iofferphoto.com/img3/item/488/089/316/g_awa-classic-superclash-2-wrestling-1987-5238.JPG</span> <span style="font-size:14px;"><span style="color:#FF0000;">SUPERCLASH</span></span> <span>http://images-partners-tbn.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQEZEaF4mD_i-UYSj5hq3Syp5MIHeFEmSRMikFAq2T5b-BC2Nt6Uht5CkM:www.cinecon.com/frontimages/1720-arnoldterminator.jpg</span></div><p></p><p></p><p> </p><p> We are live from Alerus North Dakota in front of 13,592 who have been entertained by the Rock band, Europe who played a preshow set. They will be back when we go live on PPV.</p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Opening match: The Spoiler vs The Assassin<p> Spoiler squashes Assassin who clearly was not into the match. He quickly ran from the ring refusing to unmask to boos from the crowd -- 44 rating</p><p> </p><p> 15 man battle royal - several young guys get some experience in this warm up match. solid match with no heat - Col Debeers wins eliminating Jerry Blackwell and Baron Von Ratchke in the end (with an assist by Doug Sommers). Could set up an interesting tag team match down the road. -- 55 rating</p></div></blockquote><p> And now let's get fired up for the main show - SUPER CLASH II</p><p> </p><p> <a href="" rel=""><iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7_IKcMl_a9A" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></a></p><p> </p><p> <strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Kerry Von Erich vs Adrian Adonis</span></strong></p><p> Rock America first round match as the #3 seed Von Erich from Texas takes on the WWF star Adrian Adonis in an interpromotional match. good crowd and good action to kick off Super Clash. Adonis pulls the upset when he catches Kerry with the Adorable Dog 25:15</p><p> <strong>Match Rating: 75</strong></p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Curt Henning & Greg Gagne (w/ Verne Gagne) vs Masa Saito and Leon White (w/ Sheik Adnan)</span></strong><p> Wild back and forth match - Sheik Adnan got involved to help his team which brought Verne Gagne out of his chair to take down Adnan - the distraction gives the babyfaces an opening. Gagne catches Leon White in the sleeper!! The Bull looked to be going down, as Saito came over to break it up, Henning grabs him and delivers the Henning Plex and gets the 3 count -- Henning gets the title shot and Gagne does not look happy since he appeared to have the match won. Curt will get the TV title match against Saito. Verne avoids being forced into a 3-on-1 handicap match</p><p> <strong>Match Rating: 74</strong></p></div></blockquote><p> <strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Flying Yamada vs Cocoa Samoa - LW TITLE</span></strong></p><p> Samoa slowed the match pace down and tried to ground Yamada onto the mat. However, the crowd fired up Yamada who kicked it into a second gear and catches Samoa off the ropes, hooking a leg and getting the 3 count. Oldschool called for the title change and he was right!</p><p> <strong>Rating 66</strong></p><p> </p><p> WORLD TAG TITLE MATCH -- After Midnight Rules (3-day dance)</p><p> <a href="" rel=""><iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/-cxZdH1pd3A" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></a> vs <a href="" rel=""><iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/lAHvyr6vfsQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></a> vs <a href="" rel=""><iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7e3FZBFLxcs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></a></p><p> </p><p> <strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Freebirds vs Midnight Express vs Midnight Rockers</span></strong> for the AWA tag titles of the world</p><p> WHAT A WAR - one of the best tag matches in quite a while. When Condrey rolls up Janetty, we knew we would have new tag team champs tonight!! Freebirds and Express continues to thrill the fans until Gordy powerbombed Randy Rose at 28:42. Good action and average heat. Our second title change of the night!</p><p> <strong>Match Rating: 74</strong></p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Jerry the King Lawler vs Norvell Austin</span></strong> (w/ Paul E Dangerously)<p> hair vs hair match</p><p> Great action and good crowd, these two put on a show!! When referee Jim Mitchell goes down, Paul E Dangerously calls in the calvary and Rose/Condry come down to attack the King and set Austin up for the pin. Bill Alfonso rolls into the ring and makes the 3 count!! Oh my - Lawler will have his head shaved!! But wait, Mitchell waves it off - he points to the Midnight Express and tells Alfonso what he saw...and they order the match to be restarted!!! Lawler kicks Norvel in the gut and piledrives him for the win in 14:40 -- and Austin had to sit thru the humilation of having his head shaved. Lawler is joined at ringside by the Midnight Rockers, Curt Henning, and Greg Gagne to keep Condry and Rose from interupting the hair cut. Afterward, Lawler said next time he would have someone in his corner to offset the numbers game, thanking Marty, Shawn, Curt, and Greg for coming down to help out.</p><p> <strong>Match Rating 81</strong></p></div></blockquote><p> <strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Sgt Slaughter vs Wahoo McDaniel</span></strong></p><p> Bootcamp match rules - in other words, there are NO rules!!!</p><p> No surprise that this match turned into a blood fest!! great action and good crowd - wild war and these two left no stone unturned as they tore up the ringside area. Sarge used his combat boots and riding crop to give Wahoo the proverbial crimson mask. After busting up the hotdog stand and a couple tables, Slaughter pins a bloody Wahoo at 21:15</p><p> <strong>Match rating: 76</strong></p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Sarge says that now that he's ended the career of Wahoo McDaniel, his next goal is to end the career of Bulldog Bob Brown in his hometown before setting his sights on Snuka and the world title. (rating 71)</div></blockquote><p> </p><p> The tension was growing as the match that many have waited 3 months to see:</p><p> </p><p> <span style="font-size:14px;"><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">NICK BOCKWINKLE VS ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER</span></strong></span></p><p> WOW - great HEAT and GREAT Wrestling Action!!! Arnold and Nick square off nose to nose before locking up - Nick makes the mistake of trying a test of strength. The announcers wondered aloud if anyone has actually given up in his hold - and if not, this may be the first time!! Nick is able to get to the ropes for a break and to regroup. Nick kept coming and did not back down to his credit...Bockwinkle bounced off Arnold and took some excellent bumps to make the big guy look good. Nick rolled out of the ring to the floor - Arnold gave chase and tried to follow after Nick as ran around the ring before rolling back in. Nick's strategy appeared to be trying to extend the match until Arnold's stamina betrayed him. Finally Nick caught his break and a couple dropkicks had the big man wobbling - then Nick went in for the Singapore Sleeper!!! Arnold's eyes bulged out as he frantically flailed for the ropes. As he dropped to one knee and looked like curtains, Leon White hit the ring with a steel chair and blasted Nick Bockwinkle with it!!! DQ at 14:47. White and Arnold put the boots to Bockwinkle after the match! Bockwinkle was furious at the outcome, issuing a challenge to Arnold and Leon - "I'll find myself a partner for a tag match at the Battle By The Bay</p><p> <strong>MATCH RATING: 72</strong></p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">WORLD TITLE MATCH: SUPERFLY SNUKA VS PLAYBOY BUDDY ROSE</span></strong><p> Will we see a third title change?? Great action, good crowd - Jimmy Snuka was a like possessed out there!! After months of listening to Buddy Rose spew his venom both here in the AWA and also in the PNW, Snuka was ready for payback. He roughed Rose up outside the ring by throwing him into the ringside steps. When Rose grabbed a chair, Snuka took it away and bashed him with it. Rose tried to battle back and he had Jimmy hurt! He set Snuka up for the Bombs Away - but no one home!! Rose crashes and burns....Snuka scurried up the turnbuckle for his signature move...Snuka wins at 28:07 with Superfly Death Leap -- defense #4</p><p> <strong>Match rating: 80</strong></p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> Nice celebration as the show goes off the air</p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Final Show Rating: 80<p> PPV rating on West Coast Closed Circuit: .22</p><p> Match of the Night: Lawler vs Austin!!</p></div></blockquote>

[Ritchardo]

Wow! What a show - nice move dumping Spoiler / Assassin to the pre-show in favour of the unexpected Von Erich/Adonis match - a good way to get people talking about the tournament by having two big stars battling in the first round.

[olympia]

<p>thanks. Glad you approved!!</p><p> </p><p>

I played few days ahead in order to get all the talent swaps and new signees in house for the mega tournament (many of the guys I wanted would not sign, were too expensive, or could not find a suitable name for a short term trade). All in all, I'm happy with how the brackets turned out. However, I'm a little overwhelmed looking at the brackets myself. lol. I plan to just a few spot shows here and there to help get past the first round in a reasonable amount of time.</p><p> </p><p>

Some of the newblood will have storylines behind them so I may brief some of the behind the scenes that brought them to the area before announcing them - or put TBA when their bracket is announced.</p><p> </p><p>

Warning - some guys will likely be seeded a higher or lower than you might normally expect in order to make for a better first round match (see Adonis vs Von Erich at Super Clash). As I announce brackets, feel free to be critical of the seeds (just like March Madness) but also who you see making the Sweet 16....where you see upsets....who might be the Cinderella story from each region, etc.</p>

[olympia]

Rock America brackets

 

The Rock America Tour - from Sea to Shining Sea

Ring the Liberty Bell for the champion.

 

Each bracket will be named for an AWA legend as we pay homage and respect to our proud tradition

 

up first is the Mighty Midwest - The Gagne Division for Verne Gagne

#1 seed is the AWA World champion Superfly Jimmy Snuka

2) Greg Gagne (#8 seed overall)

3) Freebird Terry Gordy - 1/2 of AWA World tag champions

4) Dirty Dick Murdoch "champion" from Jim Crockett Promotions,

5) PNW Champion Crippler Rip Oliver

6) WWA Champion Scott Steiner

7) Dennis Condrey, former world tag champ, former CWA champ

8) Florida "champion" Charlie Cook

9) ICW "Champion" Ratamyus

10) Steve Simpson for WCCW

11) Hustler Rip Rogers, from Central States

12) Crusher Jerry Blackwell, former AWA tag team champion

13) Chavo Guerrero, former SW champ

14) Ricky Rice

15) Mr Magnificent Kevin Kelly

16) Nacho Berrerro (who Verne thought was a sumo champion)

 

So the first round matches will be:

Snuka vs Nacho -- Cook vs Ratamyus

Murdoch vs Chavo -- Oliver vs Blackwell

 

Gagne vs Kelly -- Condry vs Simpson

Gordy vs Rice -- Steiner vs Rogers

 

rounds will continue in order with Snuka-Nacho winner meeting the Cook-Ratymayus winner and so on. This bracket is loaded with regional champions from around the country, and we're just getting started!!

 

who will be the final four from this bracket to make the Sweet 16? Who will win this region? Who do you see as a potential dark horse or Cinderella story? feel free to discuss as you would see a March Madness show as they announce the brackets. I'll get the others out as time permits, but wanted to get this rolling

[olympia]

<p><strong>The EXTREME EAST</strong> -- The Mad Dog Vachon bracket</p><p> </p><p>

1) Nick Bockwinkle (former champ who thinks the region should be named after him)</p><p>

2) Wahoo McDaniel (former US champion)</p><p>

3) Kerry Von Erich (World Class champion)</p><p>

4) Flying Yamada (AWA LW Champion)</p><p>

5) Leon White</p><p>

6) DJ Peterson</p><p>

7) Norvel Austin (former SE champion)</p><p>

8) TBA</p><p>

9) TBA</p><p>

10) Steve Doll (PNW TV champ)</p><p>

11) Sabu (nephew of the great SHEIK who asked Adnan to help train him)</p><p>

12) Texas Red (giant rookie out of Texas, just needs some seasoning)</p><p>

13) Mark Fleming</p><p>

14) Adrian Adonis (WWF superstar, and former AWA tag champ)</p><p>

15) Boris Zukov</p><p>

16) The Terrorist</p><p> </p><p>

first round matches</p><p>

<strong>Nick Bockwinkle vs The Terrorist</strong> -- TBA vs TBA </p><p>

I'll unveil the TBA's soon enough, as hints - one is a hitman that Paul E brings in to take out Lawler....the other will be a 2nd generation wrestler that Lawler calls to bring in as a tagteam partner (you may guess one, but maybe not the other).</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Leon White vs Texas Red</strong> -- <strong>Yamada vs Fleming</strong></p><p>

Picture Vader vs Undertaker if you're not familiar with the names!</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Wahoo McDaniel vs Boris Zukov</strong> -- <strong>N. Austin vs S.Doll</strong></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Von Erich vs Adonis</strong> -- <strong>Peterson vs Sabu</strong></p>

[Oldschool]

<p>Looking good so far... In the Gagne bracket I saw Chavo as a 13th seed and figured that would be your upset, and wouldve gone with him over almost anybody but Murdoch...</p><p> </p><p>

I see Blackwell getting the 5-12 upset over Oliver (Since he may have more midwest pull down the line)</p><p> </p><p>

I'll stick with the #1 seed Snuka tomake it to the final four</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>

In the Vachon: I'm going with the #5 seed Leon White to run table... This would be a great platform for him to take it to the next level</p><p> </p><p>

Cant wait to see the rest</p><p>

64 man single elimination tournament seems like a daunting challenge, maybe after this you start up the "AWA TEAM CHALLENGE SERIES" (Kidding-Please Dont!)<img alt="" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/wink.png.686f06e511ee1fbf6bdc7d82f6831e53.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p>

[thunderwill]

<p>Mighty Midwest - The Gagne Division </p><p> </p><p>

Very intersting division with a good mix of up and coming talent and some good veteran wrestlers</p><p> </p><p>

Final Four:</p><p>

Jimmy Snuka</p><p>

Dick Murdoch </p><p>

Greg Gagne </p><p>

Terry Gordy or Scott Steiner (really having a tough time on this one)</p><p>

Winner: Snuka</p><p> </p><p> </p><p>

The EXTREME EAST -- The Mad Dog Vachon bracket</p><p> </p><p>

I have to agree with oldschool this bracket it made for Leon White to take it to the next step and really become a force.</p><p> </p><p>

Final Four:</p><p>

Leon White</p><p>

Nick Bockwinkle</p><p>

Norvel Austin</p><p>

Kerry Von Erich</p><p> </p><p>

Winner: Leon White</p><p> </p><p>

Can't wait to see the other two brackets.</p>

[olympia]

thanks for the commentary so far - I'll have some of my own and feedback later but first the next region

 

THE WILD WEST -- The X DIVSION (as in Dr X, aka The Super Intelligent Destroyer)

 

#1 Seed: Playboy Buddy Rose - He's a PNW champ and #1 contender

#2: Mr Saito - AWA TV Champ, Japanese superstar

#3: The legendary Spoiler

#4: Cocoa Samoa -- former AWA LW champ, former PNW TV Champ

5) Crippler Ray Stevens - AWA icon and a legend in San Francisco

6) Shawn Michaels - former AWA tag champ

7) Marty Jannetty - former AWA tag champ

8) Rock & Roll Buck Zumhoffe

9) Pretty Boy Doug Sommers - former AWA tag champ

10) Sheik Adana El Kaissey

11) Rollerball Mark Rocco - European Cruiser champ, future Black Tiger

12) Randy Rose (Midnight Express)

13) Mark Young

14) The Assassin

15) Johnny Paul

16) Nature Boy Sonny Rogers

 

Matches

Rose-Rogers -- Zumhoffe vs Sommers

Will we see a collision of tag team partners?

 

Samoa vs Young -- Stevens vs R. Rose

 

Saito vs Paul -- Jannetty vs Adnan

 

Spoiler vs Assassin -- Shawn vs Rocco

Could we have a battle of the Midnight Rockers in round 3? Or maybe going in the other direction a heel hook-up between Saito and Spoiler?

 

who will be the king of the wild frontier?

[Ritchardo]

Heh - nice pool of talent

 

Mighty Midwest - The Gagne Division

 

Final Four:

Jimmy Snuka

Greg Gagne

Terry Gordy

Dick Murdoch

 

Winner: Snuka

 

 

The EXTREME EAST -- The Mad Dog Vachon bracket

 

Final Four:

Nick Bockwinkle

Leon White

Wahoo McDaniel

Adrian Adonis

 

Winner: Nick Bockwinkle (just...)

 

THE WILD WEST -- The X DIVSION (as in Dr X, aka The Super Intelligent Destroyer)

 

Final Four:

Playboy Buddy Rose

Crippler Ray Stevens

Marty Jannetty

Shawn Michaels

 

Winner: Buddy Rose

 

 

Other predictions:

 

Paul E's Hitman - Bret Hart

Jerry Lawler's tag partner - Owen Hart

[olympia]

SOUTHERN CROSS --- Da Crusher division

 

1) Sgt Slaughter (former US champ)

2) Jerry the King Lawler (former CWA champ)

3) Baron Von Raschke (former AWA tag champ)

4) Curt Henning (former AWA tag champ)

5) Scott Hall (former AWA tag champ)

6) Bulldog Brown (former Central states / Canadian champ)

7) Freebird Michael Hayes (AWA tag champ)

8) Soldat Ustinov

9) Steve O

10) Scott Peterson (Southern Rockers)

11) GI Jack

12) Buddy Wolfe

13) Col. Debeers

14) Mike Miller

15) Tom Stone

16) Jake "Milkman" Miliman

 

matches:

Sarge vs Milkman -- Ustinov vs Steve O

 

Henning vs Debeers -- Hall vs Wolfe

 

Lawler vs Stone -- Hayes vs S.Peterson

 

Baron vs Miller -- Bulldog vs GI Jack

 

some interesting possibilities in the South. Lot of former tag champs in this group, will one of them will have a singles breakout?

 

that is all 4 regions. I'm heading out of town for the weekend and look forward to seeing your comments on the brackets and how you see things going down. What possible later round matches intrigue you the most? The sweet 16, final 4, and eventual winner. Who will dominate, Cinderella stories, etc. I'm trying to get an AWA roundtable of "experts" to add to your debates about who got unfavorable draws or maybe got the luck of the draw; which are the toughest regions

[thunderwill]

THE WILD WEST -- The X DIVSION

 

I find this to be the weakest of the division, which is perfect for the "Playboy" Buddy Rose. Rose should win this division as Ray Stevens, Marty Jannetty and Shawn Michaels should be joining Rose in the final four.

 

SOUTHERN CROSS --- Da Crusher division

 

With the West being the weakest the south is strong, I do not think the strongest but it is very strong. I really have no clue about who will win this one. I'm going with Sgt Slaughter, Curt Henning, Jerry the King Lawler and GI Jack. I'm going with Henning to win the division just because he is my favorite between the four.

 

So I have

Jimmy Snuka winning the Midwest

Leon White winning the East

Buddy Rose winning the West

Curt Henning winning the South.

 

Sweet 16 - I have that are really interesting are Nick Bockwinkle vs. Leon White (White stepping into the spot light with the victory of the legend). Norvel Austin vs. Kerry Von Erich could become one the better matches in the tournament. Shawn Michaels vs. Marty Jannetty, could see a big singles push for Michaels. Sgt Slaughter vs. Curt Henning, could possible be the hardest match to pick from.

 

Elite 8 - I have Leon White vs. Kerry Von Erich, once again White having to defeat a legend to make it to the final four. Curt Henning vs. Jerry Lawler, nothing more can be said about this match.

 

Final Four - I have Jimmy Snuka vs. Leon White and Buddy Rose vs. Curt Henning. Rose and Henning could put on the best match in the tournament if it was being held in the northwest but it will still be a great match but Henning will defeat Rose with Snuka interfering in the match. White will once again have to get by a legend but Rose will provide that help in interfering in the match setting up there World Title Match.

 

White will win the tournament in a brutal match with Henning.

 

I think Rose will dominate his division but I do not really see one person just dominating the whole tournament.

 

A #5 seed as a Cinderella is hard to see but with the wrestlers Leon White as to get through to win, it has to be looked at as a Cinderella story for the ages.

[Ritchardo]

Southern Cross - Da Crusher Division

 

Final Four:

Sgt. Slaughter

Curt Hennig

Lawler

GI Jack

 

Winner: Hayes

 

 

I've changed my mind over some of the early posted division results... and can basically see the competition going two ways... but I have to choose one... so I'm going for a Sweet Sixteen of:

 

Snuka v Murdoch

Gagne v Gordy

Bockwinkle v White

Wahoo v Adonis

Rose v Stevens

Jannetty v Michaels

Slaugher v Hennig

Lawler v Jack

 

For the Elite Eight I have:

 

Snuka v Gordy

White v Adonis

Rose v Michaels

Slaughter v Lawler

 

Final Four:

Snuka v White

Rose v Lawler

 

Final: White v Lawler

 

There's a ton of stories to be had along the way (whether you book my way or not) - There's a load of interesting matches and pay-offs along the road though - Hennig/Hall squaring off in the last 32 - Jannetty/Michaels as well - some Freebird tension... particularly if you go the other way and have the two of them cheat their way closer and closer to teasing a Freebirds final - perhaps Hayes costs Gordy his match with Nick but Gordy helps P.S. get into the final...

 

Leon White v Jerry Lawler would be a hell of a match-up and a great way to bridge into a Terminator/Baby Bull v Lawler/Bockwinkle programme.

[olympia]

thanks for the detailed work and analysis you've all done. Couple good scenarios set up there -- and correct in that there could be some twists and turns along the way. Even if I pretty much color by the numbers there are plenty solid match-ups along the way. As always good food for thought and could influence the outcomes.

 

So far, looks like everyone is going with the Bull Leon White. His stock has really risen since his alliance with Big Arnold - at least with the pundits. Hopefully that carries over the fans he wrestles in front of across the country.

[olympia]

A roundtable of AWA experts and commentators began to muse their predictions and analysis:

 

 

Larry Nelson: I'm going on a limb here, but I can only see a event as monumental as this one being one by the greatest wrestler of all time, and that man is Nick Bockwinkle. Aside from Nick, I see the mighty Freebird Terry Gordy spreading his wings or possibly the TV Champ Mr Saito.

 

Lee Marshall -- are you kidding me? until someone beats the man, how can anyone bet against the current champion of the world, Superfly Jimmy Snuka? In the other regions, it's hard to argue with Sgt Slaughter - that man has fought many wars. I see Snuka facing Cheif Wahoo McDaniel in the finals as he takes down maybe a game Crippler Ray Stevens who is in the twilight of his career and will want to go out on a high note.

 

Eric Bischoff: Gentleman, don't argue. You're both wrong anyway. With the full backing of Sir Arnold Schwartzenegger and Shiek Adnan, Leon White will be the bull of the woods. I also want to keep an eye on the two men coming from the Big 2: Adonis from the WWF and Murdoch from JCP. These two men are legendary as tag team partners and here they are together in the AWA competing in this giant singles tournament, wouldn't it be great if they met in the Finals?!!

 

On the phone, Memphis announcer Lance Russell opines that you can never count out the King Jerry Lawler. Playboy Buddy Rose is riding a wave of momentum and of course Bockwinkle and Snuka are two of the best in the business. "but I'll never bet against King boy I tell you. He's beat em all here in Memphis and on any given night

 

Also on the phone, former AWA legend Larry Zbyszko chimes in:

Listen up spudheads!! This tournament is simply the brain child of one Verne Gagne in an effort to put his anorexic son over as the greatest wrestler in the world. Does anyone really think he will not use this giant stage to showcase his son and make Greg Gagne the eventual winner?? Who else will be in the final four? it doesn't matter, they will simply be cannon fodder for Greg Gagne. Why do I think I left this place? If I were there, I'd be the favorite to win it all, and I would be the only person to stand up to Verne and just beat up his punk son.

 

 

They all agree that we will surely see some upsets along the way as evidenced by Adonis upsetting #3 seed Von Erich at Super Clash; however, they would be hard pressed to pick someone outside the top 5 seeds of each region to make the final four. They pointed out guys who may have been seeded too low - like Chavo, Blackwell, and Adonis who could go farther than their seed would indicate. At the same time look to up and comers like Shawn Michaels, Marty Jannetty, or wily veterans such as Col. Debeers, Norvel Austin, Bulldog Brown to pull some upsets and advance into the latter rounds where it's anyone's ballgame.

[olympia]

Doing some cross-country travel for the holidays, and not the best internet connections. This is the first chance I've had to get on (that wasn't literally dial-up). I have some catch-up reading to do of the different territorial actions going on, and then hopefully will be able to get back to regular AWA action after Christmas.

[olympia]

<p><strong>AWA TOUR CONTINUES</strong> -- this week in Canada</p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>The UWF went head to head with SuperClash in the Midsouth area, drawing sellout crowd of 3800. 56 rated show saw One Man Gang defeat Missing Link (56) and Bill Irwin/Bad Leroy Brown over Sting/Rick Steiner (56). Backstage catfight between Baby Doll and Sunshine got the highest rating of the show (62)</div></blockquote><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Meanwhile, the AWA continues it's tour across North America, allowing local rock bands to perform at the events to get some exposure (thus "Rock America"). As we travel to Winnipeg Canada, a local group called FOZZY did the honors. It seems the lead singer is the teenage son of NHL star Ted Irvine, and a big wrestling fan.</div></blockquote><p> 912 fans attend the show (nice increase over the last time)</p><p> </p><p> preshow videos to hype upcoming TV match between Blackwell-Baron vs Debeers-Sommers (31)</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> <strong>Wahoo McDaniel</strong> comes out - "Comrade Boris Zukov has been running his mouth of late about how the Russians are superor to all others be it Canadian or American. Well Boris, this American Indian is ready to accept that challenge" -- Wahoo will face Zukov in a Texas regional of Rock America. (56 rating)</p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Squash Match for Curt Henning -- during the match 3 familiar faces are spotted at ringside. Roddy Piper, Rick Martel, and Bret Hart!!! As Larry Nelson rushes over to interview them, Buddy Rose stops him- saying he has invited these guests and that one of them will chosen to be his protege, to be groomed for a title shot with Superfly Snuka as early as the Battle by the Bay next month! (35)</div></blockquote><p><strong> Sgt Slaughter</strong> kicks off the live show telling the home town fans to get a good look at their hero Bulldog Brown because after "I get done with him, you'll never see him again" (56)</p><p> </p><p> <strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Playboy Buddy Rose vs Sonny Rogers</span></strong></p><p> first round match for Rock America - the top seed from the West Region makes short work of Nature Boy Rogers, Rose hits the Jackpot for the win (46 rating)</p><p> </p><p> <strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Wahoo McDaniel vs Crippler Rip Oliver</span></strong></p><p> In a strange twist, Sheik Adnan came out to help Oliver, most likely upset at Wahoo coming after his big Russian Zukov. Good crowd saw some decent action, and Wahoo chops the Crippler down and gets the win at 21:00</p><p> <strong>RATING: 61</strong></p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>After the match, Nick Bockwinkle comes out to confront Sheik Adnan for sending Leon White into the ring in his match with Arnold at Super Clash. Sheik Adnan gets up in Nick's face and tells him to just deal with it. Nick responds by knocking Adnan's teeth down his throat!!! Oliver rushes over to save his manager for the night. Nick dusts his hands off and walks off (48)</div></blockquote><p> </p><p> <strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Spoiler vs Greg Gagne</span></strong></p><p> average crowd, decent action - Gagne seemed off his game, but had enough to pin Spoiler after a Sleeper.</p><p> <strong>Rating: 50</strong></p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div><strong>Curt Henning</strong> cuts a promo about his first round Rock America match against Col. Debeers then his TV title shot with Masa Saito<p> "DeBeers, you're just in the wrong place at the wrong time in history - this is my tournament to win and then onto my rightful place as the AWA World Champion. But along the way, I get to pick up a few other prizes. You see, I'm tired of being held back....tired of playing second fiddle to the Geritol Patrol like Nick Bockwinkle and Jerry Lawler. Tired of seeing 2nd rate hacks like Buddy Rose getting my title shots.....tired of movie stars getting MY main event matches!! See, I've taken matters into my own hands. I won the tag team match that earned me a TV Title shot. Saturday night, Mr Saito, I will win that title and become the greatest wrestler on TV - on the ESPN sports network that beams coast to coast and around the world. I will prove to the world who the greatest wrestler is and it's a matter of time before I win even more gold!"</p></div></blockquote><span style="font-size:8px;">(41)</span><p> </p><p> <strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Sgt Slaughter vs Bulldog Brown</span></strong></p><p> Bulldog was energized by the fans and he took the fight to Sarge early. But Slaughter had a few tricks up his sleeve, after knocking Brown out with a chair, Sarge hooks on the Cobra Clutch and gets the win. Sarge parades around the ring while medics tend to Brown and stretcher him out.</p><p> <strong>Rating: 55</strong></p><p> </p><p> <strong>AWA WORLD TITLE SHOT</strong></p><p><strong> </strong><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">SUPERFLY JIMMY SNUKA © vs BABY BULL LEON WHITE</span></strong></p><p> good action but not much heat from the Canadian fans. Nick Bockwinkle tried to get involved wanting to get his hands on Leon White. The distraction was enough for Snuka to take the big man down - and deliver the Superfly Splash for the win. Title defense #5. White is fuming and yelling at Bockwinkle - these two men could be on a collision course!</p><p> <strong>Match Rating: </strong> 64</p><p> </p><p> </p><blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="31689" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Final Show Rating: 56 <p> Bit of a drop from the 70 rating last time on a star-studded show, but good enough to hopefully help us here. It was a profitable show ($4256) but not as much as some of they key American cities. As the accountants study the books, some hard decisions will have to be made. Whether Canada remains a regular stop on the AWA tours or not remains to be seen (maybe once a quarter instead of monthly - or one option was to try taping the AWA All-Stars show here since it only broadcasts to Canada anyway) Speaking of All-Star Wrestling, the TV taping is up next. It will feature some first round Rock America matches, highlighted by Henning vs Debeers</p></div></blockquote>

[olympia]

ALL STAR WRESTLING

AWA All-Star taping in Great Lakes - 905 fans

 

Flying Yamada vs Cocoa Samoa - LW TITLE rematch

solid action makes up for lack of heat - Yamada retains the AWA LW title with the Yamada Bomb. (Samoa and Sheik Adnan show some great chemistry)

Rating: 59

 

Jerry Blackwell makes a few comments about his upcoming first round match with Rip Oliver - "After all I done here in the AWA, I get a lowly 12 seed and have to face the Crippler in the first round. Well boy, you may have hurt Ray Stevens but I'm a might bigger than him. The winner of this match gets to go to Texas and face the winner of Murdoch and Chavo. I get either an outlaw or a midget and either one is just fine by me. I'm goin all the way and you can count on that"

 

Video Highlights of recent happenings with Arnold vs Nick, the Leon White run-in, subsequent match with White vs Snuka

 

Crusher Jerry Blackwell vs Crippler Rip Oliver

average all around first round Rock America match - Blackwell drops the Man Mountain Splash on Rip Oliver to score the win, what many would call an upset at 13:59

Rating: 47

 

Wahoo McDaniel is asked to say a few words about Boris Zukov. Wahoo is not afraid of any man much less a Russian (58)

 

Superfly Snuka vs Nacho Bererra

Rock America round 1 match - these two did not click - Snuka wins by submission with a nerve claw

 

Verne Gagne is seen talking to the King Jerry LawlerVerne tells Jerry that his son Greg's partner Curt Henning is on a singles mission now and that he needs a new partner. "With the rise of the Freebirds and the constant challenges of Buddy Rose, Greg needs someone he can count on". Jerry tells Verne that he is busy with his own problems right now, namely the Midnight Express, but he will reach out to his contacts back in Tennessee and see what he can do.

 

Curt Henning vs Col. Debeers

first round RA action - even match that goes back and forth. Henning seemed distracted, maybe having his mind and focus on the TV title match tommorrow. Buddy Rose made a sneak attack to help his ally Debeers who then pancakes Henning to take the win.

rating: 60

 

Final show rating: 55

 

Next up ESPN TV SHOW,

Main event sees Masa Saito defend TV title vs Curt Henning

then a house show tour in Texas which will feature

Wahoo vs Zukov, Murdoch vs Chavo Guerrero, and Freebirds defending tag titles vs Von Erichs.

[olympia]

http://images-partners-tbn.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSdwIn-FKo6IYKsVEXjZbuDJgVYbUdZE6pFsPo1sGZ4ajPCGg5d:awaflorida.com/images/espn_classic_bilboard.jpghttp://images-partners-tbn.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT_DI3mJ_AWSIoe-zwstfVxe4mgqa6xi2K9h_vPaQvYSimwSiZsFw:i30.tinypic.com/14o1zex.jpg

 

The ROCK America Tour will continue today with a pair of first round matches here on ESPN, plus the TV Title Main event with Mr Saito defending against Curt Henning

 

Sell out crowd of 6,026 attend for the live televised broadcast in Midwest

 

Col. Debeers and Pretty Boy Doug Sommers vs Baron Von Raschke and Jerry Blackwell

this match was born out the battle royal at Super Clash as the last 4 men standing. Debeers won that match with some underhanded tactics sparking a little rivalry. Nothing settled here though as all 4 men are counted out as they brawl around the ringside area. Good action /average here.

Rating: 61

 

Video recap of Nick Bockwinkle punching out Sheik Adnan (63)

 

Nick Bockwinkle vs The Terrorist Brian Knobs

despite being his protégé backstage, these two just did not click at all in the ring. Nick provided solid action and carried the match. Nick's sleeper at 7:16

Rating: 60 (bad day when even Bockwinkle can't carry someone to a good match)

 

Bulldog Bob Brown vs G I Jack

Rock American first rounder - In a major upset, GI Jack totally dominates the Bulldog in this match. Sgt Slaughter helped out at ringside so he private came out on top. Double Arm DDT at 11:47

Rating: 44

 

Norvelle Austin, shaved head and all, comes out with Paul E Dangerously to announce a BOUNTY being put on the scalp of King Jerry Lawler!! (70)

Paul E then introduces the first man to attempt to collect the Bounty - a near 7 foot giant dressed in black and wearing a Texas cowboy hat to cover his red hair emerges from the back - together they call out the King to face them! (52)

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/BvGk0rNp1Yc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Jerry Lawler vs The Ghost Rider

Lawler was hesitant to step in the ring against the giant of a man. The Ghost Rider grabs him by the throat and drags him over the top rope! He begins to pound on Lawler and Paul E is all smiles. But as he slumps into the corner, Lawler gets that look in his eyes and down comes the strap!! Lawler begins to fire back with lefts and rights to rock the giant. Now Paul E is waving his arms and looking for help - it did not arrive in time as Lawler delivers the Flying Fistdrop and scores the win. But his night was just starting.....

 

Hotstuff Eddie Gilbert hit the ring and attacks Lawler from behind. Paul E and Norvell jump for joy as Lawler's age-old nemesis pounds away. Greg Gagne tries to even the odds and Eddie turns his attention to him. It was a split second mistake - Lawler is able to get back to his feet and nail a knee to the back of Gilbert sending him flying thru the ropes and crashing into Paul and Austin on the floor. Lawler is able to escape the trap laid by the Midnight Express

 

Freebirds come out to celebrate being the new AWA World tag team champions. "the Freebird era has begun! No more northern wimps holding these shiny gold belts. We are Southern Extreme Champions, and everyone knows the SEC is the best there is. (plenty of boos from the midwest fans who might prefer the Nebraska, Oklahoma, Michigan, Ohio State brand of football more).

 

Shawn Michaels vs Mark Rocco

another first round match brought to you on TV - these two go all out to entertain the match resulting in a Solid match despite the lack of heat. Shawn connects with a Superkick for the win at 11:22. Both these men look to be solid contenders for the LW title held by Flying Yamada

 

CURT HENNING VS MR SAITO

AWA TV TITLE MATCH

Good action but average heat. Henning threw caution to the wind as he put everything on the line with his promise to win the TV title. Saito withstood the early attack and when Henning made a mistake trying to jump off the top rope and missing, Saito moved in for the kill. He applied a nerve hold - he cinched in the pressure until blood was pouring out of Hennig's mouth. Greg Gagne was at ringside and he could not watch his partner suffer any more - throwing in the towel to stop the match.

 

Greg Gagne helps Curt be loaded onto a stretcher and taken out. He holds his hand and proclaims "Like a Good Neighbor, Greg Gagne is here"

 

 

Rating: Lawler vs Ghost Rider 75

Lawler vs Gilbert 76

Freebird celebration 56

Shawn Michaels vs Mark Rocco - 60

Curt Henning vs Saito - 70

Gagne's insurance policy save - 56

Final Show Rating = 63 which should help increase popularity

ESPN TV RATING = .18 (another solid week for us, but I'd like to break the .20 mark soon to prove we are on the rise)

 

With 32 first round matches, I need to step up the # of matches. Therefore in addition to the planned show in Texas, we'll have a spot show in the Carolinas (Hopefully the Midsouth show will be successful enough to pay for both since the MAC show will most likely be a money loser, but it will show we are coast to coast as Ron Trongard tells us each and every week).