AWA 1989: A Financial Savior Is (Badly) Needed

[Captain Kremmen]

SUMMER 1989

 

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

 

AWA boss Verne Gagne called his son Greg into his office.

 

Verne had just gotten off the phone with the manager of the Mecca Arena in Milwaukee, WI.

 

Verne was looking to book the arena for Super Clash 4 in late October.

 

Greg knocked on the office door.

 

Verne: Come in.

 

Greg opened the door and walked in.

 

Greg: What's up, dad?

 

Greg took a seat on the couch in Verne's office.

 

Verne: Just got off the phone with the manager of the Mecca.

 

Greg: And?

 

Verne: I think they want too much. We had a heated exchange over the cost of renting the building for two days.*

 

(* One day for set up and one for the show and taking down the ring and other equipment.)

 

Greg: Is the deal dead?

 

Verne: We talked a little more. There's still a small crack left open in the door to try and negotiate something.

 

But as it stands right now I'm not optimistic.

 

Greg: So, are you going to look at Vegas and Denver now?

 

Verne: I am.

 

Greg: Where would you look to host the event in Vegas? Certainly not the Showboat.

 

Verne: No. Not the 'Boat.

 

I'm looking at the Thomas & Mack center.

 

Greg: How would you set up seating? I think that place holds around 20,000. And we aren't gonna get close to that.

 

Verne: Just open up the lower bowl and tarp off the upper one.

 

I'm also thinking of possibly doing something totally outside the box.

 

Greg: What is it?

 

Verne: What would you think of holding the event in a city we've never toured?

 

Greg: Seems like an awful risk considering the condition we're in money-wise.

 

Verne: I understand that. But, we're at a point where a big risk may be something we need to try.

 

Greg: Where are you looking at?

 

Verne: I've got two cities in mind. San Antonio and the Capital Centre just outside DC.

 

Greg whistled.

 

Greg: Dad, holding an event in the DC area might just be a disaster waiting to happen. That area is a WWF and NWA stronghold.

 

But San Antonio might not be a bad idea as it seems open wrestling-wise right now.

 

Verne: Just giving you the heads up, son.

 

Greg: Well, let's keep our fingers crossed and hope for something good to happen on the arena front real soon.

 

Hey! When are you gonna talk to Giants' owner Bob Lurie about possibly selling the promotion to him.

 

Verne: Hopefully, some time in the next few weeks. I still haven't talked to Lurie personally; just some people who work for him.

 

Greg: One more thing. Al's still looking into pay-per-view and ESPN for Super Clash 4.

 

Verne: We gotta try and get something done there soon as well.

 

That would be a really valuable spot to get on ESPN on October 22 if we can do it.

 

Greg: So, you're leaning towards ESPN, then?

 

Verne: I would say it's choice #1 right now.

 

Greg: OK, dad. Gotta back down the hall. Have some work to finish up.

 

Verne: Alright, son.

 

Greg got up and left Verne's office.

 

Verne was left to ponder where his Super Clash 4 dream was headed.

 

TO BE CONTINUED...

[GooverDan]

I finally took the time to read this diary again and let me tell you that you have done an excellent job telling the story and with the characters, I like where the arc is going. I will be looking forward to what you have planned for a Hansen vs. Lawler vs. Slaughter match (If it happens, of course.) While also still waiting for AWA to be saved from bankruptcy and from Vince's shadow.

 

Keep doing the good work, man. You're doing great.

[Captain Kremmen]

I finally took the time to read this diary again and let me tell you that you have done an excellent job telling the story and with the characters, I like where the arc is going. I will be looking forward to what you have planned for a Hansen vs. Lawler vs. Slaughter match (If it happens, of course.) While also still waiting for AWA to be saved from bankruptcy and from Vince's shadow.

 

Keep doing the good work, man. You're doing great.

 

Thank you for the positive feedback and I'm glad you're enjoying the thread.

 

The situation with the future of the AWA would have been settled if not for a once in a lifetime pandemic that cost me a year of publishing.

 

We're getting to a conclusion. Still gonna take a little time. But the situation will be cleared up in the near future. Thanks for sticking with the thread.

 

Always nice to hear from readers whether positive or negative. Lets you know how you're doing in their eyes.

[Captain Kremmen]

PAUL 'MR. WONDERFUL' ORNDORFF TRIBUTE!

 

Last week, one of my favorite wrestlers of the '80s, Paul Orndorff, passed away.

 

I'm airing three videos in tribute to a man I feel would have had an even greater career if not for a serious injury suffered in 1986. He was never really the same, sadly.

 

The first video isn't wrestling-related. It takes a look at Orndorff at the end of his life, the legendary ring warrior just a memory, replaced by the harsh, cold, unflinching realties of time.

 

The other two videos bring back happy memories of happier times.

 

Thanks for the memories, 'Mr. Wonderful'.

 

Orndorff two months before his passing (Heartbreaking)

 

Orndorff vs. National Champ Buzz Sawyer (Georgia - 1982)

 

WWF World Title Match: Orndorff vs. Hulk Hogan © (WWF - Toronto - 1986)

 

AWA vids will return next week.

[Theheel]

PAUL 'MR. WONDERFUL' ORNDORFF TRIBUTE!

 

Last week, one of my favorite wrestlers of the '80s, Paul Orndorff, passed away.

 

I'm airing three videos in tribute to a man I feel would have had an even greater career if not for a serious injury suffered in 1986. He was never really the same, sadly.

 

The first video isn't wrestling-related. It takes a look at Orndorff at the end of his life, the legendary ring warrior just a memory, replaced by the harsh, cold, unflinching realties of time.

 

The other two videos bring back happy memories of happier times.

 

Thanks for the memories, 'Mr. Wonderful'.

 

Orndorff two months before his passing (Heartbreaking)

 

Orndorff vs. National Champ Buzz Sawyer (Georgia - 1982)

 

WWF World Title Match: Orndorff vs. Hulk Hogan © (WWF - Toronto - 1986)

 

AWA vids will return next week.

 

No doubt he was a really good wrestler. Before he went to the WWF in 83 he was in Georgia, Mid-South and Southeastern and was really good. I wish he had gotten his injury surgical repair but I get why he didn’t with the money he was making with Hogan. Estimates were he was making $20k a week doing the house show loops with Hogan and for 86-early 87 that was big money. Can’t believe he wasn’t on WM3 card at all

[Captain Kremmen]

No doubt he was a really good wrestler. Before he went to the WWF in 83 he was in Georgia, Mid-South and Southeastern and was really good. I wish he had gotten his injury surgical repair but I get why he didn’t with the money he was making with Hogan. Estimates were he was making $20k a week doing the house show loops with Hogan and for 86-early 87 that was big money. Can’t believe he wasn’t on WM3 card at all

 

Without guaranteed money back then, it's no wonder Orndorff continued along in his series of matches with Hogan. It was just such a hot program at the time and he was making more than ever. But the long-range cost was devastating.

 

I always wonder if Vince might've put the belt on him one day. Would have loved to have seen a program between him and Savage for the title. Or vs. Flair in WCW/NWA. If memory serves me correctly, they started to tease a Flair-Orndorff program at the end of '95 but it never went anywhere.

 

Don't know if this true, but once heard Vince considered putting the belt on Orndorff but Hogan nixed it. Again, without guaranteed money...

 

Wasn't he injured and that's why no match at WM3?

[Captain Kremmen]

SUMMER 1989

 

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

 

The day after Verne Gagne had talked to his son Greg about matters concerning the Super Clash 4 show scheduled for late October, Verne held a meeting in the studio where market-specific promos were taped at AWA HQ.

 

In attendance: Greg Gagne, Wally Karbo, TV producer Al DeRusha and AWA ad salesman Eric Bischoff.

 

After the four got settled in the studio, Al blurted out the obvious question.

 

Al: What the hell's this guy doing here, Verne?

 

Al pointed right at Bischoff.

 

Verne: We'll get to that in a bit, Al.

 

Right now we need to talk about some things regarding Super Clash 4.

 

Karbo: What's up with Milwaukee?

 

Verne: As things stand right now the situation looks bleak for getting a deal done to use the Mecca for the show.

 

Karbo: So, does that leave just Vegas and Denver as possible sights?

 

Verne: No.

 

I mentioned this to Greg yesterday. I'm thinking of possibly booking the show in a city we've never been to.

 

Al shifted in his seat and Wally put his head in his hands and shook his head in disbelief. Bischoff rightly stayed out of the matter and didn't react.

 

Verne: What's the matter with that, Wally?

 

Wally: What cities are you looking at?

 

Verne: Right now I'm looking at Landover, MD and San Antonio.

 

The Capital Centre is the arena in Landover and it's just few miles outside of DC.

 

Wally: Are you serious?!

 

Verne: Hell yes, I'm serious!

 

Wally: Verne! We're in bad shape! Either of those cities will be a massive failure for us if we try one of them!

 

Verne: How do you know?!

 

Wally: We've never run either of those towns before! And the WWF and NWA have a stranglehold on the Mid-Atlantic region!

 

Verne: Well, we did send Nick (Bockwinkel) to San Antonio to defend the AWA World Title when Joe Blanchard ran Southwest Wrestling. He also defended the belt in Houston for Paul (Boesch).

 

Wally: And that's really all the fans in Texas know about the AWA! They don't get our syndicated TV!

 

Verne: They get the damned cable show on ESPN!

 

Al: But not everyone has cable, Verne!

 

Verne shot a glare at DeRusha.

 

Wally: And how many watch our stuff in Texas or DC?! We don't have any history whatsoever in those areas!

 

Keep the damn show in one of our traditional territorial cities!

 

Verne: I want everyone...everyone...in this room to know that all ideas will remain on the table for where to hold this event until the matter is settled!

 

Wally sat back and folded his arms and shook his head.

 

Wally: Just do whatever the hell you want.

 

An uneasy silence filled the studio for what seemed like forever.

 

Verne: So, that's where we stand right now in regards to choosing a town to book the show in.

 

Wally: Maybe you could hold the event at Pop's Oasis* out at Stateline, Nevada. You have the event take place behind the Bonnie and Clyde death car that's on display there. Because it's sure to be our death if you hold the show outside the territory!

 

Verne: Wally! Get out!

 

Wally sat for a moment and brooded.

 

Verne (seething): Go, Wally!

 

Wally got up and angrily left the studio and slammed the door behind him.

 

Verne got up and stormed over and opened the door and yelled down the hall.

 

Verne: F-uck you, Wally!

 

Wally's voice sounded a little distant as he shouted back.

 

Wally: F-uck you, Verne!

 

Verne was getting red faced and slammed the studio door behind him and walked back over to where the meeting was.

 

Verne took a moment to decompress.

 

Verne: Now! Where were we?

 

Ah! Where to hold the show.

 

Al: I think Wally has a point, Verne.

 

Verne: We're not necessarily in a position to play it safe right now, Al. Landover and San Antonio are still on the table. And I may add a few other non-AWA cities to the list just to be a prick!

 

Al just sat there and took it.

 

Verne: Al, what's the update on the ESPN situation?

 

Al cleared his throat.

 

Al: Well, you wanted to try and get a slot on Sunday October 22nd.

 

Verne: That's right.

 

Al: Well, you can't get a primetime slot on that day because ESPN carries NFL games on Sunday nights.

 

Verne: I forgot that. Shit!

 

Al: You might be able to do it earlier in the day.

 

Verne: That won't work because we'd be going up against the NFL then as well.

 

We need primetime to try and get as many eyeballs on our promotion as possible.

 

Al: They did mention they could possibly move some programming around and give us a more desirable slot on another day.

 

Verne: They mention the day?

 

Al: Thursday or Friday.

 

That wasn't what Verne wanted to hear.

 

Verne: See if they could swing Monday the 23rd.

 

Al: I'll check. But I can't guarantee anything.

 

Verne: Please.

 

Al: Wait a minute.

 

Verne: What?

 

Al: You sure you wanna go up against Monday Night Football on ABC?

 

Verne: What's the game on the 23rd?

 

Al: Let me check.

 

Al got up and left the office to see what game was on that date.

 

Eric Bischoff held up his hand to talk.

 

Eric: May I say something?

 

Verne: We're gonna get to the Team Challenge Series idea I have.

 

Eric: It's not about that. It's about the Mecca Arena situation.

 

Verne: What do you have to say about it? It's not really your business.

 

Eric: I know. But...

 

Verne waved off Bischoff's incoming comment.

 

Verne: We've got other stuff to deal with right now, Eric. Tell me about it later.

Eric: Yes, sir.

 

Verne: Greg, I'm gonna need you to get on the horn tomorrow and see how tickets are moving right now in the cities where we'll be holding the Lawler-Sarge matches to decide the AWA World Champion.

 

Greg: When will we start hyping that match in local markets?

 

Verne: As soon as our fourth taping from Vegas airs and Sarge accepts Lawler's challenge.

 

Eric, how are things looking with our ad budget right now?

 

Eric: As far as I know money's pretty tight in the ad budget.

 

Verne: Right now, we're gonna have to put our ad resources towards hyping the houses featuring Lawler and Sarge.

 

Greg: The entire budget?!

 

Verne: No, not the entire budget.

 

But we are gonna have to put the majority of it towards those house shows and hope we can generate enough revenue to back an ad blitz for Super Clash 4.

Eric, your job has never been more important. We're gonna need you and the rest of sales to sell ad time on TV, radio and print. It's gonna be a big push to try and win the fans back.

 

Eric: I'll get on it after this meeting, Verne.

 

Al came back in.

 

Verne: That took long enough.

 

Al: Had to stop and take a crap.

 

Verne: Did you wash your hands?

 

Al: Sure did.

 

Al stuck his hands out.

 

Al: Wanna inspect and see? Make sure to check under the nails.

 

Everyone chuckled.

 

Verne: The game is?

 

Al: The game for that night is Chicago vs. Cleveland.

 

Verne grimaced.

 

Verne: It could be a tough sell for us on that night since both teams in the game are in the upper midwest, too. Cripes!

 

Give me a day or two to think about it. Thursday or Friday sounds much better now.

Al: OK. You sure you don't want to sniff my fingers?

 

Greg laughed.

 

Verne: No, thanks. I just ate.

 

More chuckling.

 

Wally came back into the meeting. Things got tense again.

 

Verne: What is it, Wally? If you have nothing to add then you can leave right now.

 

Wally: You bet I have something to add!

 

Verne, we've been together since the AWA started in 1960.

 

Verne: Yes.

 

Wally: Just listen to reason on this matter.

 

Verne: Say what you gotta say.

 

Wally: Verne, other than the main event between Lawler and Slaughter, what marquee match-ups do you have to offer the fans? Especially those fans outside our traditional territory.

 

At Super Clash 4 you'll have...what...Top Guns vs. Badd Company; Zenk vs. DeBeers; Zbysko vs. Patera; Mimi vs. Richter and a few other matches?

 

Verne: We've got some good names on there, Wally. What the hell are you talking about?

 

Wally: But they're not big ticket movers, Verne! We don't have the roster of Vince or Turner! We've got the main event and that's it! Everything rises and falls on that one match!

 

Verne: The main event is usually what sells a show!

 

Wally: On house shows, Verne! Just on the houses!

 

A special show like Super Clash 4 needs to be loaded! We don't have the talent to put on a loaded show!

 

Verne: Well, we're gonna have to take that risk! This may be do or die for us! Fans following our TV will be interested!

 

Wally: That may be true! But this business is changing rapidly and we haven't adapted fast enough!

 

And those small houses we usually see now, even in once big drawing towns; the house show cancellations because we haven't even reached three figures in ticket sales...that's what speaks volumes!

 

You've got to try and add another name wrestler before Super Clash 4, Verne!

 

Verne: We've got Hansen coming in! He's a big name!

 

Wally: But he's only gonna be here for a short time even if you put the belt back on him! He'd be in and out of the promotion!

 

You've talked with some other guys! Call them back and try and make a deal with one of them! Please! Be a realist, Verne!

 

The room got quiet as Verne gave serious thought to what Wally was saying.

 

Greg: Dad, I'll check around with my contacts and see if any name wrestlers are out there who are interested in coming here.

 

Verne (subdued): Okay, son.

 

Wally: It's time for the Hail Mary. And we've got to hope someone on our team catches the ball.

 

Wally walked out of the studio and quietly closed the door behind him.

 

SIlence.

 

Verne (subdued): Let's wrap this up. I've got some calls to make.

 

Eric, we'll get to the Challenge Series idea at another time.

 

Eric (hiding obvious disappointment): Okay.

 

Verne: Meeting's over.

 

Al walked out of the studio.

 

Greg walked over and put his hand on his dad's shoulder.

 

Greg: Rise or fall, I want you to know I'm with you all the way, dad.

 

Verne gave a gentle laugh.

 

Verne: I know you are, son. Thanks.

 

Greg then left the studio.

 

Verne was in deep thought when a salesman walked up to him.

 

Eric: Verne?

 

Verne: Yes, Eric.

 

Eric: I wanted to ask if I could have a crack at trying to negotiate a deal with the Mecca Arena for the show?

 

Verne: You?

 

Eric: Yes. Sales, as you know, has been my life. Maybe I can get something done for you here.

 

Verne: I dunno.

 

Eric: Please. Just give me one chance. I think I might be able to work out a deal with them.

 

Verne: What do you intend to sell them on?

 

Eric: The AWA, it's legacy, it's future...and me.

 

Verne seemed surprised by the last remark.

 

Verne: You?

 

Eric: As you know, sales isn't only the product. Sales is also how you sell yourself to others. Gotta win them over, ya know.

 

Verne thought about it for a moment.

 

Eric: How about it?

 

Verne: Eric, I'm giving you one chance to try and make a deal with the Mecca. You got it?

 

Eric: I do, sir. I'll call them in the morning.

 

Verne: Good.

 

And I've got someone I need to call. Hope he's open to a deal.

 

Another day and the AWA saga continues to twist and turn. How will it all shake out in the end?

 

TO BE CONTINUED...

 

(* Pop's Oasis was this little casino near Stateline, NV (now known as Primm, NV) and the prison. It sat just off I-15 in the middle of nowhere and there were billboards in both Cali and Nevada hyping the Bonnie & Clyde Death Car as you got closer to Pop's.)

[Captain Kremmen]

<p><strong><span style="font-size:14px;">SUMMER 1989</span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:14px;"> </span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:14px;">

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN</span></strong></p><p> </p><p>

The day after Verne Gagne gave salesman Eric Bischoff permission to try and cut a deal for a two-day rental on the Mecca Arena in Milwaukee...</p><p> </p><p>

Bischoff was on the phone that morning and spoke with Mecca management.</p><p> </p><p>

Verne was in his office handling other business matters.</p><p> </p><p>

Finally...</p><p> </p><p>

There was a knock on Verne's office door.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Verne:</strong> <em>Come in.</em></p><p> </p><p>

In walked Eric Bischoff.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Verne:</strong> <em>Have a seat, Eric.</em></p><p> </p><p>

Bischoff took a seat on the other side of the desk.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Verne:</strong> <em>How'd it go?</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Eric:</strong> <em>Well, it went good. Quite good, actually.</em></p><p> </p><p>

Bischoff flashed that thousand watt smile of his.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Verne:</strong> <em>Great! Details, please!</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Eric:</strong> <em>I was able to talk them down to a reduction of 20% in the rental cost of the facility for two days. </em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em>

Right now, since we have no set date for Super Clash, the dates are open.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Verne:</strong> <em>We need to try and get a deal with ESPN, pronto</em>.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Eric:</strong> <em>I agree.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em>

Also, there is one thing they asked us for in exchange for the reduced rate.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Verne:</strong> <em>What's that?</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Eric:</strong> <em>They want two to four tickets for each member of the office and management staff at the Mecca for Super Clash and all future AWA shows at the Mecca.</em></p><p> </p><p>

Verne pondered what Eric said.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Verne:</strong> <em>No problem. But they won't be prime ringside seats. Those go for the highest price and we need all the cash flow we can get right now.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em>

They'll be good seats. But not the first few rows of ringside. I think the permanent seats right in front of the ring, we can definitely swing that.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Eric:</strong> <em>What row would you be looking at at ringside?</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Verne:</strong> <em>Did you promise them ringside?</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Eric:</strong> <em>No. But ringside seats did come up in the discussion.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Verne:</strong> <em>Tell them two seats in the permanent section dead center in front of the ring. As for ringside, it'll be row 5 and moving back from there. Two seats only.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em>

If they want three or more seats, then tell them they will be in less prime areas of the arena.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<em>Do you think this is a done deal?</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Eric:</strong> <em>Let me talk to them about the seats.</em></p><p><em> </em></p><p><em>

Don't worry. I feel good about getting a deal done.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Verne:</strong> <em>I like your moxie, Eric.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Eric:</strong> <em>Thank you.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Verne:</strong> <em>Now, go and get the deal done.</em></p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Eric:</strong> <em>I'm on it!</em></p><p> </p><p>

Eric got up and, with a spring in his stride, left the office.</p><p> </p><p>

<strong>Verne (thinking to himself):</strong> <em>He may have a future in this business. Don't know where. But there's something about him</em>. </p><p> </p><p>

The Mecca deal looks like it might be saved. But can the same be said for the AWA?</p><p> </p><p>

<strong><span style="font-size:14px;">TO BE CONTINUED...</span></strong></p>

[Theheel]

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="piperrulz" data-cite="piperrulz" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52672" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Without guaranteed money back then, it's no wonder Orndorff continued along in his series of matches with Hogan. It was just such a hot program at the time and he was making more than ever. But the long-range cost was devastating.<p> </p><p> I always wonder if Vince might've put the belt on him one day. Would have loved to have seen a program between him and Savage for the title. Or vs. Flair in WCW/NWA. If memory serves me correctly, they started to tease a Flair-Orndorff program at the end of '95 but it never went anywhere.</p><p> </p><p> Don't know if this true, but once heard Vince considered putting the belt on Orndorff but Hogan nixed it. Again, without guaranteed money...</p><p> </p><p> Wasn't he injured and that's why no match at WM3?</p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> Well he was battling the injury but recently heard on one of the podcasts that he was held back in case Andre couldn’t go at WM3. Don’t know if this backup plan idea is the real or not</p>

[Captain Kremmen]

Well he was battling the injury but recently hear on one of the podcasts that he was held back in case Andre couldn’t go at WM3. Don’t know if this backup plan idea is the real or not

 

That sounds reasonable because Hogan's main program was with Orndorff heading into '87.

 

Wonder if they would have sold out the Silverdome if it was Hogan vs. P.O.?

 

Maybe yes considering the business they did in Toronto in summer '86 at Exhibition Stadium.

[Captain Kremmen]

SUMMER 1989

 

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

 

(Note: For those who wish to read the previous discussion between Verne and this WWF wrestler about coming into the sinking AWA, please go to post #107 here: http://www.greydogsoftware.com/forum/showthread.php?t=544125&highlight=1989+financial+savior&page=8 .)

 

Verne Gagne was in an upbeat mood after his morning meeting with salesman Eric Bischoff. The Mecca Arena in Milwaukee, which looked like a no-go for Super Clash 4 just a couple of days earlier, was now back in play and a deal to book the event there looked very strong thanks to young Mr. Bischoff.

 

It was now just after 2pm CST and Verne had another order of business he hoped to take care of.

 

Verne thumbed through his trusty Rolodex and found the number he wanted. Verne picked up the phone and dialed.

 

After three rings there was an answer.

 

Woman: Hello?

 

Verne: Hi. Is Greg home?

 

Woman: Yes, he is. May I ask who's calling?

 

Verne: This is Verne Gagne.

 

Woman: OK. I'll get him.

 

The woman called out for her husband as Verne impatiently tapped a pencil on his office desk waiting for Greg to pick up.

 

Greg took the phone.

 

Greg: Hello. Verne?

 

Verne: Yes, Greg. How are you?

Greg: I'm doing alright. How about yourself?

 

Verne: I'm fine.

 

I'm just calling to see if you remembered the deal we talked about a while back.

 

Greg: I do. You never got back to me on it.

 

Verne: At the time it didn't look like a deal that could work for us.

 

Greg: Heard Lawler was there now.

 

Verne: Yes, I brought him back.

 

But, I've been discussing our current situation with others and we think we need another name to help try and get the promotion turned around.

 

Greg: I would certainly like to be a part of that turnaround, Verne.

 

Verne: That's what I was hoping to hear.

 

Do you remember the deal we discussed last time?

 

Greg: Believe it was along the lines of something like $600 for TVs per month and guaranteed money for each house show worked.

 

Verne: The good news is we're booking more house shows right now because of the Lawler-Sarge World Title program in an effort to try and reinvigorate the house show side of things.

 

Oh. It was a $250 dollar minimum guarantee for the houses. More if a certain financial threshold was met on the shows.

 

Greg: Did we discuss how much more?

 

Verne: Not that I recall. We can talk about that if you come in.

 

Greg: So, $600 guaranteed for TVs each month and a $250 buck guaranteed minimum on the houses. Correct?

 

Verne: Right.

 

Greg: And I also want to be able to work non-televised independent shows in my spare time.

 

Verne: I have no problem with that.

 

Greg: Vince is hardly using me right now, so getting out of my deal there should not be hard.

 

I'll get back to you in the next day or two.

 

Verne: OK, Greg. Hope to see you in the AWA real soon. I think you've got a lot of gas left in the tank.

 

Greg: I think I do, too.

 

Talk with you shortly.

 

Verne: Bye, Greg.

 

Greg: Later, Verne.

 

Verne hung up the phone.

 

He was making a play for a wrestler who was still a solid worker but hadn't been a serious player for a couple of years.

 

Greg knew he would see his pay dive drastically if he left the WWF. But Greg was a big picture thinker. He was looking at resurrecting his stagnant career in the AWA.

 

Verne was gonna have to play wrestling career faith healer to try and make 'The Hammer' a star in the eyes of wrestling fans once again.

 

Would it work?

 

TO BE CONTINUED...

[Captain Kremmen]

SUMMER 1989

 

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

 

A day after Verne Gagne talked on the phone with Greg Valentine, the AWA boss was out in the hall talking with AWA TV director Mike Shields when Verne's secretary walked up to him.

 

Secretary: You have a call. It's Greg Valentine.

 

Verne: Great.

 

Verne strolled down the hall to his office and closed the door behind him. Verne plopped himself down at his desk and picked up the phone.

 

Verne: Greg?

 

Greg: Hello, Verne.

 

Verne: Good hearing from you. What's the verdict?

 

Greg: I talked with Vince and we agreed to part company. I'm gonna finish up my dates for him and I'll be available to come in in September.

 

Verne: That's great. And the timing could not be better.

 

We can build up your AWA debut match for Super Clash 4.

 

Greg: I like it.

 

So the deal is what we agreed upon?

 

Verne: That's correct.

 

Also, you wanted to work non-televised independent dates when not booked by us.

 

Greg: Yeah.

 

Verne: I'll allow you to also work for any promotion except for Tuner or Vince and it must be non-televised.

 

Greg: Like where this is heading.

 

Verne: Good. Good.

 

I'm excited you're coming in. I really believe we're going to start seeing things turn around this fall.

 

Greg: Looking forward to it.

 

Verne: Talk with you soon.

 

Greg: OK. Bye, Verne.

 

Verne: Bye, Greg.

 

Verne hung up the phone and seemed satisfied. He was stretching himself to the brink financially but he knew he had to do it to try and save his company.

 

That is, unless SF Giants' owner Bob Lurie makes Verne an offer for the AWA he can't refuse.

 

TO BE CONTINUED...

[Captain Kremmen]

SUMMER 1989

 

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

 

Verne was in good spirits after getting a deal done with Greg Valentine to come to the AWA.

 

Verne strolled out of his office when Eric Bischoff saw him.

 

Eric: Verne! Hey, Verne!

 

Eric walked up to the AWA owner.

 

Verne: You got some news for me, Eric?

 

Eric: Yes, I do.

 

Here's what management wants seat-wise for all future AWA shows at the Mecca.

 

They'll agree to your terms for the Super Clash 4 show in terms of tickets and seating arrangements.

 

But for future house shows they want to be able to obtain ringside seats starting in row three.

 

Verne: And everything else can be left as it is for the houses there after Super Clash 4?

 

Eric: You got it!

 

Verne: Just remind them each one is entitled to a maximum of four seats in certain areas and two seats in others.

 

Let's do a deal!

Eric: Alright!

 

I'll have them overnight the rental contract for you to sign off on.

 

Verne: Sounds great. Just gotta get the ESPN date set and we are good to go.

 

Verne's day just got even better. But how many good days does this once legendary promotion have left?

 

TO BE CONTINUED...

[Captain Kremmen]

AWA VIDEO OF THE WEEK!

 

From 1986, Col. DeBeers vs. Pete Sanchez.

 

This is a squash. But I'm posting it because the commentary by the late Rod Trongard (really underrated as an announcer) could not be used to get a heel wrestler like DeBeers over today.

 

 

ENJOY!

 

When I was a kid this was a free country. - G. Gordon Liddy

[Captain Kremmen]

SUMMER 1989

 

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

 

Verne Gagne was having an awesome day.

 

Eric Bischoff all but assured booking the Mecca in the land of beer and The Crusher for Super Clash 4.

 

Greg Valentine agreed to come to the AWA in an effort to resurrect his flagging career.

 

Verne was eating lunch at his desk in his office when the secretary buzzed him and told him he had a call on line 2.

 

Verne picked up the phone.

 

Verne: Verne Gagne.

 

Voice: Yes, Mr. Gagne. My name is Winston Smith.

 

Verne: Yes.

 

Smith: I work for Bob Lurie.

 

Verne sat up in his chair.

 

Verne: I'm all ears.

 

Smith: Mr. Lurie would like to talk with you later today. Currently he's in a meeting.

 

Verne: That would be fine. Does he have a time preference?

 

Smith: Yes. Around 4pm your time.

 

Verne: Sounds great. Is he currently in 'Frisco?

 

Smith: He certainly is. Been really busy with the ballclub.

 

Verne: The Giants. I see they're having a really good season. Roger Craig's a good manager.

 

Smith: Hum, baby!

 

Verne laughed.

 

Verne: I've heard Craig say that before.

 

Smith: Anyway, expect a call from Mr. Lurie about 4 o'clock your time.

 

Verne: Got it.

 

Smith: Goodbye, Mr. Gagne.

 

Verne: Goodbye, Winston.

 

Say, Winston.

 

Smith: Yes.

 

Verne: Your name sounds familiar.

 

Do you have an older brother, perhaps?

 

Smith: I do. I love Big Brother.

 

Verne: Thought so. Looking forward to Lurie's call.

 

Smith: OK. Bye now.

 

Verne: Bye.

 

Verne hung up the phone and awaited the owner of baseball's SF Giants to call.

 

If Verne cuts a deal with Lurie the AWA would be saved. But would everything on the table currently be scrapped and replaced with a new direction for the company?

 

TO BE CONTINUED...

[Captain Kremmen]

SUMMER 1989

 

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

 

THE CALL

 

Verne Gagne was sitting at his office desk and looking up at the clock.

 

It was 4:01.

 

Verne anxiously awaited the call from Bob Lurie, owner of baseball's SF Giants.

 

At 4:05, Verne was nervously tapping a pen on his desk. The Call still had not come.

 

4:10

 

4:15

 

No call yet. Verne wondered if it was gonna come at all.

 

4:18

 

Finally...

 

Verne's secretary buzzed him and let him know Bob Lurie was on line one.

 

Verne picked up the phone.

 

Verne: Bob Lurie. Nice to finally talk to you.

 

Lurie: Good to talk with you, Verne.

 

Sorry I'm late with this call.

 

Verne: That's OK.

 

Lurie: I've heard the AWA is on the market. I'm interested in getting involved in the wrestling business.

 

Verne: So I've heard. You a wrestling fan?

 

Lurie: I really enjoy it.

 

Used to go to shows promoted by Roy Shire at the Cow Palace. I fondly remember guys like Pat Patterson, Ray Stevens, Pepper Gomez, The Brute. Fond memories.

 

Been to some AWA shows at the Cow Palace as well in '83, '84 and '85. Really enjoyed them. Liked your shows better than the WWF one I saw.

 

Verne was beaming.

 

Lurie: But I see the promotion's hit hard times.

 

Verne: It has. It has. But we're working on trying to dig ourselves out of the hole we're in.

 

Lurie: Well, Verne, I think I could give the AWA the financial shot in the arm it needs to get back on track.

 

Verne: It will take some time for a turnaround.

 

Lurie: I know. Got to be patient with it. Wrestling's a unique business.

 

Verne: Are you looking to be a financial investor or buy the promotion outright.

Lurie: I'd like to buy it.

 

What's your asking price right now?

 

Verne: $3 million dollars.

 

Lurie: That sounds reasonable all things considered.

 

Let me just explain my vision for the AWA should I make the purchase.

 

I want to be the main competitor to the WWF by being different. I want fans to have a true alternative to the WWF. When they see the AWA, they'll know it means a more serious wrestling product and not a lot of cartoonish stuff.

 

Verne liked Lurie even more.

 

Verne: That sounds good to me, Bob. I'm hoping to sell to someone who appreciates the sporting side of the business.

 

Lurie: To compete, you've got to be different.

 

Verne: That's right.

 

Lurie: Watching some tapes of the promotion, I can see that the roster is pretty thin right now. I think I could bolster it by bringing in some name talent that might be out there looking for a new home.

 

Verne: Sounds great.

 

Lurie: Well, I've got a dinner engagement to get to.

 

I'll send someone up to Minnesota to go over the books.

 

Verne: Great! When do you think that will happen?

 

Lurie: I can have someone up there next week.

 

Verne: Sounds good. We'll have the books in order for when he arrives.

 

Lurie: Here's hoping we can get a deal done.

 

Verne: I think we can, Bob. I think we can do it.

 

Lurie: OK, Verne. Take care.

 

Verne: Bye.

 

Verne hung up the phone. The day got even better for him.

 

The Mecca. Greg Valentine. A possible sale of the AWA to Bob Lurie.

 

Verne's slot machine was hitting all 7's on this one particular day.

 

But how long before the wheels on the machine would stop hitting in his favor?

 

TO BE CONTINUED...

[Herrbear]

Things are looking up. Could it be too true?

[Captain Kremmen]

Things are looking up. Could it be too true?

 

Stay tuned...

 

Has Verne finally found a profitable out to his problems?

[Theheel]

Sounds promising….but, we shall see

[Captain Kremmen]

Sounds promising….but, we shall see

 

It could be Bob Lurie.

 

Could still be Verne.

 

But are there others lurking in the shadows???

 

[Captain Kremmen]

<p><span style="font-size:14px;">For those who are new to reading this and want to read it from the beginning, please click on the link below:</span></p><p> </p><p>

<a href="http://www.greydogsoftware.com/forum/showthread.php?t=544125&highlight=1989+financial+savior" rel="external nofollow">http://www.greydogsoftware.com/forum/showthread.php?t=544125&highlight=1989+financial+savior</a></p>

[Captain Kremmen]

AWA VIDEO OF THE WEEK!

 

From 1981, it's Verne Gagne's retirement match. He defends the the AWA Title one final time against arch-rival Nick Bockwinkel.

 

Verne's ego was on display at the end of the match here:

 

 

ENJOY!

[Theheel]

AWA VIDEO OF THE WEEK!

 

From 1981, it's Verne Gagne's retirement match. He defends the the AWA Title one final time against arch-rival Nick Bockwinkel.

 

Verne's ego was on display at the end of the match here:

 

ENJOY!

 

Man Gange was so over the hill at this point. He should never have had that last run as champion. I had several issues with the AWA handling of this because....

 

1.) Gange should have never under any circumstances retained the title. He was retiring and done basically as an in ring performer, although he did have several "last" matches.

 

2.) Once he did retire with the belt the AWA made another one of its cardinal mistakes (which they had done several times in the past and would do it again in the future 86), they simply awarded the title to someone. While it was the right person in Nick Bockwinkel he should have won it somehow in the ring. Either having a top contenders title match between Bockwinkel and a host of other guys (Larry Hennig, Wahoo, even Tito Santana was around at this time) or schedule a 8-man tournament. I looked at the AWA roster in 81, they could have easily had a fairly respectable tournament for the title.

 

So it had been a long time since I had seen this match and while Gange wasn't particularly good, Bockwinkel carried him to a respectable match. But young wrestlers today should look closely at guys like Bockwinkel. The way he sold, his use of facial expressions and just how he carried himself in matches and in interviews...classic and sorely missing today. He could provide a clinic even today on how to be a heel, and cheat to gain an advantage, hiding things from the ref and using his manager (although The Brain was pretty stationary in this match). Science and psychology in wrestling instead of just a spot fest to the neck spot.

 

Anyway thanks for sharing

[Captain Kremmen]

AWA ON ESPN TAPINGS - SHOWBOAT SPORTS PAVILION - LAS VEGAS, NV - JUNE 1989

 

(4th Taping Re-Cap)

 

Match Commentator: Lee Marshall

 

Color Commentator: Lord James Blears

 

In-Ring Interviewer: Larry Nelson

 

Show Intro:

 

In-Studio - Larry Nelson welcomed viewers and ran down the program:

 

TV MAIN EVENT: Sam Houston vs. Larry Zbysko

 

Jerry Lawler sees action

 

AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter makes an appearance. Will he accept Lawler's offer for a match to decide who the real AWA World Champion is?

 

World Tag Team Champions The Destruction Crew wrestle

 

A look back at last week's confrontation between Baron Von Raschke/Wahoo McDaniel and Jonnie Stewart/Manny Fernandez

 

Don Muraco wrestles

 

AND MORE!

 

Nelson said Lee Marshall would return to his announcing duties next week and that he (Nelson) would be calling the action from ringside this program. Nelson then sent it to the Showboat Sports Pavilion.

 

Badd Company won a squash over Randy and Bill Mulkey via pinfall when Pat Tanaka pinned Bill after a savate kick

 

Post-Match Interview Highlight:

 

Larry Nelson talked with DDP and Badd Co. about the recent series of events where a mystery woman came out and gave DDP a note and then the woman left.

 

Nelson: Dallas, last week on All-Star Wrestling, you received another note from a beautiful mystery woman and the note said: We're watching you.

 

Have you found out who sent that note and the other one you received a few weeks earlier?

 

DDP: No, Nelson, we haven't found out who sent the notes. But, we're undeterred. Nothing and no one is going to stop us from reaching the top here in the AWA!

 

Nelson: Do the notes bother you at all?

 

DDP: Me and my boys, Tanaka and Diamond, have not lost any sleep over them.

 

Tanaka and Diamond shook their heads in agreement with their boss.

 

DDP: I believe this is a little head game being played by the Pop Guns. The problem for them is it's not working! They're not getting into our heads with this stuff!

 

Another hot blonde came out and made her way down the face aisle. She was in a white dress that showed off her curves and white heels. She was carrying an envelope.

 

DDP: Another one?!

 

DDP just shook his head in disbelief.

 

The woman climbed into the ring and walked right up to DDP.

 

She rubbed his chest with her free hand.

 

DDP: Babe. A little lower and we would be banned from TV. Haha!

 

Woman: This is for you, hon.

 

The blonde woman pressed the envelope into DDP's hand and then turned and walked out of the ring and stepped out on the apron.

 

As DDP and Badd Co. looked on, the woman gave DDP and Badd Co. a thumbs up.

 

DDP: Look at that, Nelson! She's on our side! Right on, baby!

 

The woman flashed a big, bright smile and then turned her thumb down as the crowd cheered.

 

The woman then left the scene.

 

Nelson: I don't think she's a fan.

 

DDP: Shut up, Nelson!

 

Nelson was unfazed.

 

Nelson: What's in the envelope?

 

DDP opened the envelope and pulled out the piece of paper and read it. Tanaka and Diamond looked over his shoulder and read it, too.

 

Nelson: What does it say?

 

DDP: It says: The clock is about to strike 12!

 

Nelson: What does that mean?

 

DDP: Who the hell knows?!

 

This stuff is all nonsense!

 

Whoever's doing it needs to just come out and show who they are right now!

 

Nelson: Are you nervous now?

 

DDP: No, Nelson! I am not and neither is Badd Company!

 

Nelson: They look nervous.

 

Tanaka and Diamond were looking around at the crowd. Both had wide-eyed, nervous looks on their faces.

 

DDP looked at his men.

 

DDP: What the hell is it with those looks on your faces?!

 

Tanaka: It's like we're dealing with ghosts or something, man!

 

DDP: Oh, please! You two need to man up! This is all some silly game no matter who's behind it!

 

Diamond: Dallas, you do play a lot of blackjack when we're here. Have you racked up some major debts and some mafia types are looking for you?

 

Tanaka (bug eyed with fear): On no! If the mob's involved...

 

DDP: You two need to zip your lips!

 

Look, there's nothing to worry about, man! I ain't got no mafioso's after me! Got it?!

 

Tanaka and Diamond nodded nervously in agreement.

 

DDP: Good! Now let's get out of here!

 

Nelson: Badd Company, everybody!

 

The trio left the ring for the floor.

 

Tanaka and Diamond were still nervously looking around as DDP started to head back up the heel aisle.

 

DDP turned back and saw his men still at ringside nervously scanning the crowd.

 

DDP: Let's go! Now!

 

Tanaka and Diamond looked around a little more before finally meeting up with DDP in the heel aisle and made their way to the back with Tanaka and Diamond still scanning the crowd.

 

Pic aired of Don Muraco with the caption: NEXT... HAWAIIAN PUNCH!

 

Commercials

 

Don Muraco defeated Paul Frehley in a squash match via pinfall with his inverted piledriver finisher

 

Muraco gestured for Larry Nelson to hand him the mic. Nelson did so.

 

Muraco: I want you people to know that changes are coming. You'll be seeing a new man, a new Don Muraco, very soon.

 

Muraco handed the mic back to Nelson and then left the ring and headed back up the face aisle.

 

Announcers were puzzled by Muraco's remark.

 

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd a look back at last week's confrontation between Wahoo and Baron Von Raschke and Manny Fernandez and Jonnie Stewart.

 

VIDEO:

 

Post-Match:

 

Stewart had his hand raised in victory as Wahoo was still down. Suddenly, Manny Fernandez, in his ring attire, charged down the heel entrance aisle and hit the ring and started stomping away on the prone Wahoo. Stewart joined in the boot party on The Chief. Fernandez then ordered Stewart to pick Wahoo up and hold Wahoo from behind. Stewart obliged. As Stewart held Wahoo, Fernandez moved in and pounded Wahoo with head and body shots and, to add insult to injury, a few hard chest chops.

 

Crowd cheered as Baron Von Raschke, in his ring gear, charged down the face entrance aisle and hit the ring with a folded steel chair. Stewart let go of Wahoo and Wahoo went back down and Stewart and Fernandez bailed to the safety of the floor before feeling the sting of the chair.

 

Fernandez and Stewart looked on as Von Raschke gestured for Larry Nelson to come to the ring. Nelson left the broadcast position and climbed up on the apron. Wahoo painfully to his feet holding his gut.

 

Von Raschke: Manny Fernandez! It seems you have made a new friend! And you both have one thing in common!

 

You're both scum!

 

Crowd cheered.

 

Fernandez yelling from the floor.

 

Wahoo: Larry! I don't know what Stewart has in that knee pad of his...but it's more than just a knee! It felt like I was hit with a lead pipe in the gut!

 

Stewart virulently shaking his head 'no' from the floor.

 

Nelson: What do you think is in that knee pad, Chief?

 

Wahoo: I think it's steel! Pull down the pad, Jonnie!

 

Stewart reluctant to pull down the pad.

 

Crowd started chanting: Pull it down! Pull it down!

 

Jonnie shook his head 'no', yelled at the fans and consorted with new pal Fernandez.

 

Von Raschke: Tell you what! Let's have a match!

 

Crowd chered.

 

Von Raschke: Me and the Chief vs. you two SOB's!

 

More cheering.

 

The two sides were staring each other down and exchanging words.

 

Nelson: Here comes AWA promoter Verne Gagne!

 

AWA boss Verne Gagne made his way down the face aisle to the ring and climbed in.

 

Verne reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out what appeared to be a document.

 

Nelson: What is that you have in your hand?

 

Verne: Larry, I am holding a standard AWA match contract.

 

Verne reached into the breast pocket of his jacket and pulled out a pen.

 

Verne: Let's make this match happen.

 

Crowd cheered.

 

Verne: Wahoo and Baron, I need your signatures here.

 

Baron and Wahoo each signed the contract.

 

Verne: Now for Manny and Jonnie's signatures.

 

The heel duo remained on the floor.

 

Fernandez picked up on a mic.

 

Fernandez: Bring the contract to us down here!

 

Verne: You won't come in the ring?

 

Fernandez: Bring it here, Verne!

 

Verne chuckled and shook his head and left the ring and dropped to the floor. Von Raschke and Wahoo looked on from the ring.

 

Fernandez snapped the contract and pen out of Verne's hands and looked up at the pair still in the ring.

 

Fernandez then signed the contract and handed it off to Jonnie Stewart.

 

Stewart signed the contract and handed it back to Verne Gagne.

 

Nelson left the ring and went over to Verne.

 

Verne: It is official. It will be Wahoo and the Baron vs. Fernandez and Stewart in a tag match!

 

Crowd cheered.

 

Verne: And one more thing.

 

Let's see Mr. Stewart's knee pad.

 

Verne started to approach Stewart. Stewart was jittery and Fernandez got between Stewart and Verne. Verne went to go around Fernandez but Fernandez blocked Verne's path and Stewart started backing up into the heel entrance aisle. Baron and Wahoo dropped to the floor and started walking in Stewart's direction. Stewart turned and hauled ass to the back as Wahoo and Baron looked on from the heel aisle.

 

END VIDEO

 

Nelson announced that the main even on next week's AWA Championship Wrestling on ESPN will be: Baron Von Raschke & Wahoo McDaniel vs. Manny Fernandez & Jonnie Stewart.

 

Nelson wondered if Wahoo and the Baron would succeed in seeing if Stewart has a weapon in his kneepad.

 

Pic aired of the AWA Tag Team Titles with the caption: NEXT... THE TAG TEAM CHAMPS!

 

Commercials

 

IT'S THE AWA ON TOUR! We'll be at the high school/community center/county fair/used car dealership parking lot/church fellowship hall in (insert town here). THE AWA IS THE MAJOR LEAGUE OF PROFESSIONAL WRESTLING!

 

NON-TITLE: The Destruction Crew (WTTC) def. Tony Banks & TJ Rubley in a squash match via pinfall when Enos pinned Rubley with a powerslam

 

Post-Match Interview Highlights:

 

Nelson asked the champs what they thought of their run so far as the champions.

 

Bloom: It's like this, Larry! We've had a great run since we won these titles and the future only looks brighter for us!

 

I don't see one team currently in the AWA who can beat us!

 

Nelson: You don't?

 

Bloom: No! You tell me who can beat us?! It sure as hell won't be the Guerrero Brothers!

 

Enos: Haha! Tell 'em, brother!

 

Bloom: It's not gonna be Brad Rheingans and Greg Gagne! The Top Guns have vanished from the scene like a fart in the wind!

 

There's not one single team that can topple us right now!

 

Nelson: You guys seem awfully confident.

 

Enos: Why shouldn't we be, Nelson?!

 

We've taken out every team thrown in our path! We're an unstoppable force! There's no end to our reign on the horizon!

 

Nelson: That was the Destruction Cr... Whoa!

 

DDP made his way down the heel aisle to the ring and climbed in. DDP approached Nelson and the Destruction Crew.

 

DDP: Wayne. Mike.

 

Bloom: Dallas.

 

DDP: You say you guys don't have anyone who can beat you in the AWA, huh?

 

Bloom: That's right.

DDP: Well, Badd Company can beat you!

 

Enos: Whoa! Wait a minute! You're challenging us to a match?!

 

DDP: Bingo!

 

Enos: We're not giving you a shot, man!

 

DDP: Why not?!

 

Enos: Because you guys don't deserve it!

 

DDP: Are you serious?! Of course we deserve it!

 

Bloom: You're not getting a title shot because their are other teams in line in front of you.

 

DDP: Who? The Top Guns? They're G-O-N-E...gone...courtesy of Badd Company! The Guerrero Brothers?! You've already put those guys down for the count! How many re-matches will they get?!

 

Bloom: Those teams are the top contenders right now along with Greg Gagne and Brad Rheingans.

 

DDP: Just remember this, boys. It's because of me that you're the champions today! Understand?!

 

Bloom and Enos looked at one another for a moment.

 

Bloom: We earned these belts because of our hard work! We appreciated your moral support that evening...

 

DDP: Moral support?! Ha?! You guys got a lot more than moral support from me!

 

Bloom: Badd Company will just have to get in line! Understand?!

 

DDP: What would it take to move to the front of the line?

 

Bloom and Enos seemed stunned by DDP's remark.

 

DDP: Listen, we're in Vegas, man.

 

I know you two like to gamble, so I'll make you an offer you can't refuse.

 

Bloom: What is it?

 

DDP: I'll put $25,000 dollars up for a title match for Badd Company against the reigning champs the Destruction Crew.

 

You beat us then the money is all yours.

 

Bloom: $25 grand. What do we have to do?

 

DDP: You don't have to put up a dime, gents. Just give us one title shot.

 

Bloom: That's all, huh? There are no other stipulations to this deal?

 

DDP: None. Give us the match. Beat us and you can throw one great party here in Sin City with the money you win...if you win it!

 

Bloom: Excuse us.

 

Bloom and Enos talked briefly amongst themselves.

 

Bloom: Get the contract drawn up. Let's do this.

 

U]DDP:[/u] That's what DDP likes to hear! Money talks!

 

Bloom: It sure does!

 

Nelson: Looks we have a developing situation on our hands, everybody! Stay tuned!

 

In-Studio: Larry Nelson talked briefly about the situation between the champs the Destruction Crew and Badd Company.

 

Nelson then hyped the main event: Zbysko vs. Houston and intro'd pre-recorded comments from Larry Zbysko.

 

VIDEO:

 

Zbysko was standing in front of the AWA logo in his ring attire with mic in hand.

 

Zbysko: Sam Houston, I am going to dedicate my win tonight to decency.

 

You see, Sam's a stupid hick from Texas.

 

He comes out with his nice guy act and thinks that's how you earn respect.

 

Well, nothing could be further from the truth.

 

I'm an established legend in this sport. I've been the World Heavyweight Champion and will be again one day very soon. My record speaks for itself. I ended Bruno Sammartino and ripped his nickname 'The Living Legend' away from him! I now wear that title!

 

Houston, have you ever won anything of importance?! You ever won a major belt?! You ever so dominated a wrestler that you took his nickname from him?! I don't think so!

 

In our match, I intend to put on a wrestling clinic and show the world that I'm superior to some little, insignificant paean like you!

 

You agreed to this match and now you will pay the price for that decision!

 

You may be the dork of the ball! But I'm THE LIVING LEGEND! And legends trump dorks every time!

 

Sam Houston! Not even the ghost of Ken Patera can save you! Prepare for the humiliation of a lifetime!

 

END VIDEO

 

Pic aired of Jerry Lawler with the caption: NEXT... THE KING OF THE RING!

 

Jerry Lawler won a squash over Vincent Damon Furnier via pinfall with a piledriver

 

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHT:

 

Nelson: You still haven't gotten an answer from Sgt. Slaughter on the World Title unification matter.

 

Lawler: I haven't, Larry, and I'm getting impatient.

 

If Sgt. Slaughter wants to be the AWA World Champion he claims to be, then he needs to accept my challenge and let's settle this thing once and for all.

 

Nelson: What if he refuses to wrestle you to determine who the undisputed AWA World Champion is?

 

Lawler: Then he'll go down as an illegitimate World Champion and become a national disgrace and a disgrace to this great sport of ours.

 

Step up, Sarge. Or go down as the most undeserving World Champion in wrestling history.

 

In-Studio: Nelson talked briefly about the Lawler-Sarge situation and wondered how things would play out in the long run.

 

Nelson then intro'd pre-recorded comments from Sam Houston.

 

VIDEO:

 

Houston was in his ring attire and holding a mic. He was standing in front of the AWA logo.

 

Houston: I'm wrestling Larry Zbysko in the main event. He's one of the best in the sport today.

 

He's a former AWA World Champion.

 

He's got top-notch ring skills and is a master at playing mind games with his opponents and getting into their heads.

 

I have a chance to score the biggest win of my career. I'm excited!

 

But I also know Zbysko does not respect me. He seems to think I'll be easy pickin's for him.

 

So, I'm going out there to prove that I belong in the ring with a wrestler of Zbysko's caliber!

 

Zbysko! You'd better be careful! Don't get too cocky! Because you're about to fight a southern boy who can strike like a Texas rattler!

 

Pic aired of the AWA logo with the caption: NEXT... THE MAIN EVENT!

 

Commercials

 

TV MAIN EVENT: Sam Houston vs. Larry Zbysko

 

Both men were in the ring.

 

Houston turned his back on Zbysko and was removing his hat and vest when Zbysko charged up behind Houston and started pounding away on Houston.

 

Ref called for the bell.

 

Zbysko kept hammering away on Houston and then whipped Houston into the turnbuckles. Zbysko moved in and caught Houston with a series of rapid-fire shoulder blocks to the gut. Zbysko then nailed Houston with a head shot. Houston staggered out of the corner next to the ropes and Zbysko clubbed Houston from behind and pounded on Houston some more. Houston went down to a knee. Houston got up bent over and Zbysko booted Houston in the side of the head. Houston fell through the top and middle rope out onto the apron. Ref ordered Zbysko back and started the 10 count. Houston up at the count of 6. Zbysko moved in and grabbed Houston and strangled Houston on the top rope. Ref counting the 5 count. Zbysko broke the illegal move at the count of 4. Zbysko repeated the choke and once again broke at 4. Houston draped over the top rope, arms hanging in the ring. Zbysko grabbed Houston and suplexed Houston back into the ring. Houston sat up and Zbysko kicked Houston in the back. More pain for Sam. Zbysko then grabbed Houston by the hair and slammed Houston's head into the mat multiple times. Zbysko then snapped Houston up, hoisted Houston up on his shoulder and nailed Houston with a shoulder breaker. Zbysko for the cover. 1... Houston kicked out. Both men to their feet and Zbysko stunned Houston with a spin kick to the chest. Houston down by the ropes on his side. Zbysko moved in, grabbed the top rope, swung up and came down, driving a knee into Houston's back three times. Zbysko broke the illegal move at the count of 4. Zbysko then stomped Houston in the head.

 

Blears: Things aren't looking good for young Houston, Lee. This could be over soon.

 

Nelson: Very soon, unless Houston can find a way to get back in this match.

 

Zbysko yelled for Houston to get up. Houston did so...slowly. Houston up and Zbsyko caught Houston with a head shot, whipped Houston into the ropes, caught Houston coming off with a kick to the gut that doubled Houston over. Zbysko then blasted Houston with a swinging neckbreaker. Sam in a bad way. Zbysko covered Houston and hooked the leg. 1...2... Houston kicked out. Crowd cheered. Zbysko put the boots to Houston, snapped Houston up and went to whip Houston into the ropes but Houston reversed and caught Zbysko coming off with a dropkick. Zbysko down. Zbysko up and Houston caught Zbysko with a second dropkick and again Zbysko went down. Zbysko up once more and hit with a third dropkick. Zbysko crashed to the mat and quickly rolled out of the ring to the floor. As Houston recovered in the ring, a pained Zbysko started walking around on the floor as the ref started the 10 count. Zbysko had some words with hecklers at ringside as the count grew. Zbysko then climbed back up on the apron. Zbysko started to slowly climb back in the ring when Houston moved in on him. Zbysko went back out on the apron. Ref ordered Houston to stand back. Ref started the count once again. Zbysko cautiously started to climb back into the ring when Houston moved in on him. Zbysko once again bailed to the apron as the fans booed. Ref ordered Houston back and the two had a brief exchange of words. Zbysko yelled at the ref to do his job. Zbsyko then turned towards the crowd and started yapping at some hecklers. Houston ignored the ref and went over and grabbed Zbysko and pounded away on Zbysko and then ran Zbysko down the apron and slammed Zbysko's head into the top buckle. Zbysko staggered and holding the top rope. Houston pulled Zbysko head over heels back into the ring as the fans cheered. Houston was ready to fight. Zbysko scooted on his ass next to the ropes and signaled for a timeout to, shockingly, no avail. Houston reached down to grab Zbysko but Zbysko was able to pull Houston's legs out from under him. Zbysko went for the pin. 1... Zbysko placed his feet on the middle rope for leverage. ...2... Houston got a shoulder up. Zbysko took his feet off the rope just before the ref looked over. Zbysko went for the pin again.

1... Zbysko placed his feet on the middle rope again. ...2... Ref saw Zbysko's feet on the rope and ordered a break. Houston stunned Zbysko by catching him in a small package for the pin. 1...2... Zbysko kicked out. Crowd groaned. Both men up.

 

Houston had his fists raised. He was rarin' for a fight. Houston moved in and caught Zbysko with a trio of head shots that drove Zbysko into the corner. Houston then nailed Zbysko with a series of shoulderblocks to the gut of his own. Houston then grabbed ZBysko in a side headlock and gestured it was time for his bulldog finisher. Houston went for the move but Zbysko shoved Houston off and Houston crashed to the mat. Both men slowly got to their feet. Zbysko moved in and raked Houston's eyes. Ref reprimanded Zbysko. Zbysko told the ref to shut his pie hole. Houston turned away and was rubbing his eyes when Zbysko came up behind him and dropped Houston with a chop block to the back of the knee. Houston down and hurting. Zbysko stomped on Houston's left knee and grabbed Houston's left leg and locked Houston in the figure four. Crowd urging Houston to fight on. Houston fought through the pain and would not surrender. Houston was able to scoot close enough to the ropes while in the hold and drape his arm out over the bottom rope to force a break.

 

Suddenly, the crowd popped.

 

Nelson: What's this?!

 

A familiar face with his left arm in a sling and wearing street clothes came down the face aisle and stood at ringside.

 

Nelson: It's Ken Patera! He's back!

 

Blears: I don't believe it, Larry!

 

Crowd cheering loudly. Zbysko looked over and saw Patera and couldn't believe his eyes. Patera stood on the floor. Houston recovering in the ring. Zbysko came over by the ropes where Patera was standing. AFter a brief staredown, Patera removed the sling form his left arm and then flexed his left bicep showing his left arm was okay. Zbysko in disbelief. Patera just kept looking at Zbysko. Houston to his feet behind Zbysko and wanting Zbysko to turn around.

 

After Zbysko said a few more words to Patera, Zbysko turned and walked right into a dropkick from Houston. Zbysko crashed to the mat. Fans eating it up. Zbysko up and Houston moved in and battered Zbysko with a series of head and body shots. Zbysko stunned. Houston grabbed Zbysko in a side headlock, backed into the corner and charged out and blasted Zbysko with his bulldog finisher. Houston covered Zbysko and hooked the leg. 1...2...3!

 

Ref called for the bell as the small but boisterous crowd roared their approval. Shot of Patera stoically looking on from the floor. Houston was celebrating in the ring. Ref came over and raised his hand in victory. Houston left the ring and slapped hands with fans at ringside before leaving the scene. A hurting, defeated Zbysko got to his feet and looked over at Patera. Patera calmly raised his left arm, spun it around and then pointed at Zbysko. Zbysko was shocked by the sudden turn of events. Patera then coolly turned and headed back up the face aisle to more cheers. One final shot of Zbysko in the ring.

 

WINNER: Houston - Pinfall - 11:22

 

Pic aired of AWA Champ Sgt. Slaughter with the caption: NEXT... WILL HE ACCEPT?!?!?!

 

Commercials

 

Nelson intro'd video from last week's interview with AWA Champ Sgt. Slaughter.

 

VIDEO:

 

Nelson: Are you going to wrestle Lawler in a World Title unification match?

 

Sarge was silent for a moment...

 

Sarge: I defeated Zbysko and won this belt! That's all I have to say!

 

Nelson: That doesn't answer the question.

 

Sarge (exasperated): You know what, Larry...

 

Sarge bowed his head.

 

Nelson: Do you have an answer for Lawler...

 

Sarge put his hand up to silence Nelson. He looked around at the fans in the 'Boat Sports Pavilion.

 

Sarge then shook his head slightly like he was gesturing 'no'.

 

Nelson: Was that a...

 

Sarge then walked off, left the ring, dropped to the floor and headed back up the face aisle.

 

Announcer Blears: Sgt. Slaughter gave us no clear answer.

 

Fans were buzzing.

 

Nelson was confused.

 

Nelson: I'm not sure what's going on. We'll try and get to the bottom of it.

 

END VIDEO

 

Nelson then sent it back to the Showboat in Las Vegas.

 

In-ring: Nelson was standing with Sgt. Slaughter. Sarge was in his ring attire and had the belt around his waist.

 

Nelson: I'm here with AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter.

 

Mixed crowd reaction.

 

Nelson: Sarge, you gave no clear answer last week as to whether or not you'd wrestle Jerry Lawler to determine the undisputed AWA World Champion.

 

Do you have an answer for us now?

 

Sarge: Larry, as far as I'm concerned, I am the real AWA World Champion.

 

I don't know what else I have to do to prove it.

 

I won a Battle Royal to earn the title shot and then I beat Zbysko to win the belt.

 

That makes me the World Champion.

 

And, no, I am not an illegitimate World Champion as Jerry Lawler likes to say. My reign is very legit because I won this title right here in this ring in Las Vegas!

 

Crowd cheered.

 

Nelson: What do you say to those who think you need to wrestle Lawler to solidify your status as the World Champion?

 

Sarge: I think the critics are wrong. I don't need a match with Jerry Lawler on my resume' to validate being the champion!

 

Nelson: Well, the people would like to see the match between you and Lawler.

 

Crowd cheered.

 

Sarge: I'm sure they would. But I've got other contenders to deal with and that's who my focus is on right now.

 

Jerry Lawler snuck down the face aisle to ringside with belt in hand and climbed into the ring behind Sarge and Nelson.

 

Sarge: This is where we stand at the...

 

WHAM!

 

Lawler clocked Sarge in the back of the head with his version of the title. Sarge crashed to the mat and rolled over on his side holding the back of his head.

 

Nelson: Jerry Lawler! What the hell...

 

Lawler snatched the mic from Nelson and leaned over the downed Sarge.

 

Lawler: Semper Fi, Sarge!

 

It's time to be a man and accept my challenge!

 

Lawler tossed the mic down next to Sarge and stood over the downed Sarge for a moment as most of the crowd booed but Lawler had his supporters.

 

Lawler then turned and left the ring for the floor. As Lawler prepared to leave the ringside area, a hurting Sarge grabbed the mic next to him, sat up and was holding the back of his head with his right hand.

 

Sarge (painfully): Lawler!

 

Sarge winced. Lawler turned around and looked at Sarge.

 

Sarge: Lawler! Challenge...accepted!

 

Crowd cheered as Sarge tossed the mic and looked out at Lawler as Lawler continued to look on from the floor as the program ended.

 

CLOSING CREDITS:

 

DARK MATCHES

 

Don Muraco def. Jonnie Stewart via pinfall with his inverted piledriver finisher - TIME: 15:18

 

Col. DeBeers def. Greg Gagne via pinfall with his face-first piledriver finisher - TIME: 10:10

 

Non-Title: Sgt. Slaughter (WC) & Jerry Blackwell def. Badd Company via pinfall when Blackwell pinned Diamond with his big splash finisher - TIME: 12:48

 

PAID ATTENDANCE: 2004

 

COMPS GIVEN OUT: 444

 

COMPS USED: 113

 

TOTAL ATTENDANCE: 2117

 

CAPACITY: 5500

[Captain Kremmen]

Man Gange was so over the hill at this point. He should never have had that last run as champion. I had several issues with the AWA handling of this because....

 

1.) Gange should have never under any circumstances retained the title. He was retiring and done basically as an in ring performer, although he did have several "last" matches.

 

2.) Once he did retire with the belt the AWA made another one of its cardinal mistakes (which they had done several times in the past and would do it again in the future 86), they simply awarded the title to someone. While it was the right person in Nick Bockwinkel he should have won it somehow in the ring. Either having a top contenders title match between Bockwinkel and a host of other guys (Larry Hennig, Wahoo, even Tito Santana was around at this time) or schedule a 8-man tournament. I looked at the AWA roster in 81, they could have easily had a fairly respectable tournament for the title.

 

So it had been a long time since I had seen this match and while Gange wasn't particularly good, Bockwinkel carried him to a respectable match. But young wrestlers today should look closely at guys like Bockwinkel. The way he sold, his use of facial expressions and just how he carried himself in matches and in interviews...classic and sorely missing today. He could provide a clinic even today on how to be a heel, and cheat to gain an advantage, hiding things from the ref and using his manager (although The Brain was pretty stationary in this match). Science and psychology in wrestling instead of just a spot fest to the neck spot.

 

Anyway thanks for sharing

 

If Gagne would have done what was riht for business he would have dropped the belt that night to Nick. But the guy's head was so big I'm surprised he got into the building.

 

He looked like a middle aged man. Hard to suspend disbelief when looking at him in this match. Bockwinkel may have been 47. But he was always in great shape and remained a great worker until the end.

 

Handing Bockwinkel the title, not once but twice, was a bad idea both times IMO. Why not just have Bockwinkel wrestle another top face at the time in '81 and another top heel in '86 for the vacated belt?

 

Verne may have had a good mind for the business and been a good worker (Can you imagine a match between him and Bob Backlund?! YIKES! Wake me when it's over!), but his lack of trust in the younger wrestlers in the '80s, especially one named Hulk Hogan, played a major role in the company's downfall.

 

Sorry, Verne. Nobody was dying to see the Crusher, Dick The Bruiser or Baron Von Raschke by 1983. They wanted something new. But, Verne being Verne, it did not happen.

 

I read he had guys around him in '83 who told him he had the talent to go national. He could have been the top dog. But he let it pass him by because of his massive ego. Who knows how big the AWA would have gotten had he put the belt on Hogan and kept it on him for a long time like Vince did. The guy seemed to stop evolving with the business by the early '80s if not sooner.

 

Bottom line: Verne killed himself off by his refusal to get with the times. Nobody else, including Vince, did it to him. That's the moral of the story.