AWA 1989: A Financial Savior Is (Badly) Needed

[DHK1989]

Guess it WAS too good to be true.

[Captain Kremmen]

Heh, heh, heh. Doesn't look good.

 

Don't give up yet. Nothing's been settled. Or has it???

 

Lol poor Verne, next call Red McCombs

 

Nope! Ken Behring!

 

Guess it WAS too good to be true.

 

Maybe. Maybe not. Maybe something better waits in the wings. Or maybe something much, much worse!

[Theheel]

Don't give up yet. Nothing's been settled. Or has it???

 

 

 

Nope! Ken Behring!

 

 

 

Maybe. Maybe not. Maybe something better waits in the wings. Or maybe something much, much worse!

 

Ken Behring, that carpet-bagger was a thief in the night. Maybe Ric Ruben instead of him going with Cornette (although I’m glad he did back SMW)

[DHK1989]

Something smells of sabotage. Someone not liking the deal presented. Hmm...

[smartman]

Something smells of sabotage. Someone not liking the deal presented. Hmm...

 

Oh, I'm sure it's Bischoff who stole the contract and called him to work out a much better deal on a new promotion "since the AWA's brand has become too toxic to save". Always blame that scumbag.

[Theheel]

Something smells of sabotage. Someone not liking the deal presented. Hmm...

 

Gotta be Greg

[Herrbear]

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Theheel" data-cite="Theheel" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52672" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Gotta be Greg</div></blockquote><p> </p><p> That seems so right.</p>

[Captain Kremmen]

SUMMER 1989

 

VERNE GAGNE'S HOME ON LAKE MINNETONKA

 

AWA boss Verne Gagne had a lot on his mind.

 

He was battling local officials who were trying to seize his home via eminent domain laws to make way for a new public park by the lake.

 

And he was wondering what happened to his AWA sale to SF Giants' owner businessman Bob Lurie.

 

Verne tried to call Lurie's San Francisco office on two occasions but was told Lurie was too busy to take his call.

 

The contract to sign off on the sale had still not arrived at AWA headquarters.

 

Verne was sitting in his den and the TV was on but he was not watching what was playing on the screen.

 

Verne was worried. Very worried.

 

Verne was about to call it a night when the phone rang.

 

The ringing phone shocked Verne out of his thoughts.

 

Verne picked up the phone.

 

Verne: Hello.

 

Voice: Verne?

 

Verne: Yes. Who's this?

 

Voice: This is Bob Lurie. Hope I'm not calling too late.

 

Verne sat up and leaned forward in his chair.

 

Verne: It's no problem. Glad to hear from you, Bob. Was getting a little concerned.

 

Lurie: I heard you called the office a couple of times. Sorry I wasn't able to take your call.

 

Verne: That's okay. You're a busy man.

 

Lurie: I'm just calling to let you know that the sale is still on.

 

Verne breathed a quiet sigh of relief.

 

Lurie: The contract has been drawn up and will be sent out tomorrow.

 

Verne: That's good news. Was worried it might have gotten lost in the mail.

 

Lurie: We've just been swamped here with work and things just got delayed a little longer than I would have liked.

 

Verne: Thank you for calling, Bob. It puts my mind at ease.

 

Lurie: Just wanted to touch base with you and let you know everything is a go.

 

Verne: I'll keep my eyes peeled for the contract over the next couple of days.

 

Lurie: You do that. Let's get this deal done and put to bed.

 

Verne: Thanks for calling, Bob.

 

Lurie: You're welcome, Verne. Bye.

 

Verne: Goodbye.

 

Verne hung up the phone.

 

A huge weight had been lifted off his shoulders. The sale was now just a matter of days from being completed.

 

Finally, the AWA would have a new owner and a new direction.

 

TO BE CONTINUED...

 

**************************************

 

AWA VIDEO OF THE WEEK!

 

From 1986, Nick Bockwinkel vs. Col. DeBeers:

 

 

ENJOY!

[DHK1989]

Why do I feel like the contract will be different than what was agreed upon?

[Captain Kremmen]

SUMMER 1989

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

THE ARRIVAL

AWA head honcho Verne Gagne was sitting at his office desk and doing some paperwork when there was a knock on his door.

Verne: Come.

Verne's secretary walked in and was holding a manila envelope.

Secretary: This just came via special delivery.

The secretary handed Verne the envelope.

Verne looked at the return address and smiled a big smile.

Secretary: Must be something good.

Verne: It is. Believe me, it is.

Thank you.

The secretary turned and walked out of the office and closed the door behind her.

Verne looked at the envelope for a moment and then opened it and pulled out its contents.

It was THE CONTRACT!

Verne was beaming as he looked over the document.

He called his son Greg, who was not at the office on this day, to tell him the news.

He spoke privately to Wally Karbo, Al DeRusha and salesman Eric Bischoff about it and told them not to tell any of the wrestlers about it until the contract was signed, sealed and delivered.

For some reason, Verne took a liking to Eric and was starting to include him in things usually reserved just for Verne's inner circle. Verne clearly saw something in Eric.

Verne made an appointment to see his attorney the next day to go over the contract and make sure everything was kosher.

Verne now had the brass ring within his grasp.

The AWA was about to be sold to a man who appreciated the sporting side of the business and not the cartoon silliness of the WWF.

He felt confident Bob Lurie would do the right thing by the promotion. Lurie was the man who was going to right the ship and get the AWA back in the game as a major player.

THE NEXT DAY...

Verne and son Greg went to see their lawyer, Gomez Adams.

Adams had two of his best attorneys, Frank Sutton and Jim Nabors, look over the deal.

Verne and Greg were there for over three hours waiting to see if everything was good in the contract.

After sitting in the waiting room for what seemed like an eternity, Gomez, smoking a cigar, called the pair back into his garishly decorated office.

Verne and Greg took a seat.

Gomez: Verne. Greg. Would you two like a cigar?

Both men politely declined.

Gomez: Well, Frank and Jim looked over the contract very thoroughly. It's very detailed, to the point and rock solid as a legal document.

Verne and Greg were happy.

Gomez: Now, we need to get two witnesses and have Verne sign the deal.

Gomez brought in the secretary, a girl named Wednesday, to sign off as the witness. She did her duty.

Gomez had also called in office crank Les Nessman.

Nessman signed off as the second witness.

And then it was Verne's turn...

Verne picked up the pen, hesitated for a moment, and then signed the contract.

Gomez: It is official! We send it back to Bob Lurie to sign off on and he becomes the new owner of the AWA and you are 2 million bucks richer, Verne!

Verne: Thank you, Gomez. Thank you all.

Gomez: Our pleasure, Verne. Just remember who loves ya, baby!

I could use a nice steak dinner.

Verne: It'll be on me, Gomez.

Gomez: Sounds good. And I'm gonna hold you to it.

Verne: It'll be one hell of a feast, my friend.

Gomez: I'll see you two later!

The three men shook hands.

Verne, contract in hand, and Greg walked out of Gomez's office into the waiting area.

Greg jumped back when he saw a huge man standing near the front door.

Verne: Who's that?

Gomez: Well, since I get threats from time to time because I'm a lawyer, I thought it best to hire security. Meet Lerch!

Greg and Verne nodded and waved to the giant. Lerch just made a gutteral noise.

Greg and Verne left the Adams' law office and walked out to their car. The pair got in.

Suddenly, Verne wasn't as sunny as he was a few minutes earlier.

Greg: What's the matter, dad?

Verne: It's not easy giving up something you've loved doing for over 40 years.

Greg was sympathetic.

Greg: I know. I know.

But you're still gonna be a consultant for the next three years. You'll still be around the business.

Verne: I know. But it's just gonna be different. I won't be the boss anymore.

Greg: It's gonna be okay, dad.

Verne: I know it will, son.

Let's go overnight this contract back to Bob.

Verne mailed the contract via next day air.

In 24 hours, a new dawn would break for the AWA.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Edited June 15 by Captain Kremmen

[Theheel]

<p>Lol Gomez Adams, Wednesday and Lerch that’s kind of creepy mysterious and Spooky. </p><p>

Jim Nabors and Frank Sutton…..Gawly Sgt Carter</p><p>

And the Buckeye News winner 5 times running Les Nessman</p>

[Captain Kremmen]

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Theheel" data-cite="Theheel" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52672" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Lol Gomez Adams, Wednesday and Lerch that’s kind of creepy mysterious and Spooky. <p> Jim Nabors and Frank Sutton…..Gawly Sgt Carter</p><p> And the Buckeye News winner 5 times running Les Nessman</p></div></blockquote><p> </p><p> <img alt=":D" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/biggrin.png.929299b4c121f473b0026f3d6e74d189.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /> Missing Uncle Fester!</p>

[Herrbear]

Well, your pulled it off. Congrats.

[DHK1989]

Verne's gonna change his mind at the last second, isn't he?

[Theheel]

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="DHK1989" data-cite="DHK1989" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52672" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Verne's gonna change his mind at the last second, isn't he?</div></blockquote><p> </p><p> Lurie hasn’t signed it yet either</p>

[Captain Kremmen]

<p><span style="font-size:18px;"><span style="color:#FF0000;">AWA VIDEO OF THE WEEK!</span></span></p><p> </p><p>

From the '70s, it's Wahoo McDaniel & Bill Watts vs. Billy Graham & Ernie Ladd:</p><p> </p><p>

 

</p><div class="ipsEmbeddedVideo"><div><iframe width="200" height="150" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/6Gsg1eUwmV4?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" title="Wahoo McDaniel and Bill Watts vs Superstar Graham and Ernie Ladd"></iframe></div></div><p> </p><p>

<strong>BONUS!</strong></p><p> </p><p>

From the '60s, it's Nick Bockwinkel on <span style="color:#0000FF;">The Monkees</span>!</p><p> </p><p>

See if you can spot him:</p><p> </p><p>

 

</p><div class="ipsEmbeddedVideo"><div><iframe width="200" height="113" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/cx6vctncFpw?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" title="Nick Bockwinkel on The Monkees"></iframe></div></div><p> </p><p>

<span style="font-size:14px;">ENJOY!</span></p>

[Captain Kremmen]

SUMMER 1989

 

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

 

Verne Gagne was sitting his office reading the local newspaper when his secretary buzzed him and told him Bob Lurie was on line one.

 

Verne quickly put down the paper and picked up the phone.

 

Verne: Bob.

 

Lurie: Hello, Verne.

 

Verne: Did the document arrive?

 

Lurie: It did.

 

I signed it. It's a done deal.

 

Verne: That's great!

 

Lurie: I was thinking, why don't I fly up there and we'll have a press conference announcing the deal.

 

Verne: I'm all for it, Bob. Let's get the presser set up.

 

But I do need to do one thing before any announcement is made.

 

Lurie: What's that?

 

Verne: I need to let the wrestlers and everyone else who works for me know that I've sold the promotion.

 

So, I'm asking that we try and keep a lid on this thing until our announcement.

 

Lurie: No problem.

 

I won't have it leaked to the trades or papers or anything.

 

Verne: That sounds good.

 

Bob, it's been an absolute pleasure doing business with you.

 

Lurie: Likewise, Verne.

 

I'll talk to you later.

 

Verne: Bye, Bob.

 

Verne hung up the phone and was happy a deal had finally been made.

 

But with that happiness also came a little sadness.

 

Wrestling was Verne's life and now he was about to have a seriously reduced role in the business he loved and all final decisions would be out of his hands.

 

Now, he had to tell his AWA family about the sale...

 

THE NEWS

 

It was promo day, the day wrestlers cut their promos for the syndicated program for specific markets for house shows as well as generic promos for cities the AWA wasn't coming to but the syndicated show aired.

 

Everyone, from the wrestlers (AWA superstars to the AWA Universe ) to the office, to the production team and everyone in between was there.

 

Verne walked in with Wally Karbo and son Greg.

 

Verne: Thank you all for being here.

 

This is a tough announcement for me to make.

 

I've sold the promotion.

 

Gasps and whispers rippled through those in attendance.

 

Zbysko: Who was it sold to?

 

Verne: Bob Lurie. He made his money in real estate and owns the Giants baseball team.

 

DeBeers: The San Francisco Giants?

 

Verne: Yes.

 

What's going to happen is there will be a press conference in a few days to announce the sale.

 

I'm asking you to please not tell anyone about this. We're trying to keep a lid on it and not let the media know until the presser.

 

Blackwell: Do you know any thing about our status?

 

Verne: Sorry, Jerry. I do not know anything about that.

 

The new regime will begin making the decisions when they assume official control of the AWA.

 

Blackwell: And that will be when?

 

Verne: A few days after the press conference.

 

We're going to have a 30 day transition period. I will remain in charge of the wrestling side of things during that time and maybe a little longer if needed.

 

Rich: Will you be staying on after that?

 

Verne: Yes. For three years as a consultant. But I will not have the power to make decisions anymore.

 

I just ask that everybody remain calm. I know transitions can bring about a lot of unease. But Bob's a solid guy, great to do business with and I think you'll like him a lot. He'll be here for the presser.

 

Any more questions?

 

Rich: Seems crystal clear.

 

Patera: Did you tell Lawler?

 

Verne: I'm calling him later today. And also Valentine and Hansen.

 

There was a brief, uneasy silence in the room.

 

Verne: Let's get to work cutting those promos, huh. Still have business to take care of.

 

Everybody went back to work.

 

The AWA was moving forward...whether many of those in the company liked it or not.

 

TICKET SALES

 

Greg Gagne barged into his father's office while his father was working at his desk.

 

Greg: Dad, I've got some pretty good news for you.

 

Verne: What is it?

 

Greg: Before we announced the Sarge vs. Lawler AWA Title Unification match for the house shows starting in late July, Chicago had sold less than 1,000 tickets and St. Paul was at 1,200. Green Bay had sold just over 500 tickets before the Sarge-Lawler announcement.

 

Verne: Now?

 

Greg: Chicago is at roughly 2,400 tickets sold. Green Bay is now just over 2,000. And here in St. Paul, the number has jumped to over 2,500!

 

It really shows how far the AWA had collapsed when selling 2,000 tix to a house show generated excitement.

 

Verne: What about 'Frisco and Phoenix?

 

Greg: Um. Those two are still under a thousand tickets sold. But they both got a small bump in sales after the announcement.

 

Verne winced. The good news tempered by grim reality.

 

Greg: But, Fargo is over 1,500 tickets sold and Sioux Falls is closing in on 2,000 tickets sold and Omaha is over 1,000 tickets sold.

 

Verne: We've got to keep plugging away to keep trying to boost those sales. I know we're on a tight budget.

 

You know what?

 

Get me Eric Bischoff. That guy seems like an idea man. Maybe he can give us an idea on how to really jack up sales.

 

Greg: You want him now?

 

Verne: Yes.

 

Greg left the office and went and got Bischoff.

 

Eric: What is it, Verne?

 

Verne: Ticket sales are up at the houses because of the Lawler-Sarge match. But we need to boost them even more. You got any ideas?

 

Eric: Not right off the top of my head, no.

 

But give me a minute.

 

Verne, Greg and Eric sat quietly in the office for several minutes.

 

Eric: I think I have an idea.

 

Verne: Shoot.

 

Eric: We'd need Lawler and the Sarge for this.

 

Why don't we send them to the major cities where this match is being held and have press conferences that end in a pull apart fight.

 

Greg: That sounds good. But the money...

 

Verne: Well, I'm still in charge right now. And money's tight.

 

But let's do this.

 

We'll record a contract signing between the two. It will be generic, the cities will never be mentioned.

 

And we'll send the tapes to all the local media outlets where the match is happening so they can air the brawl.

 

We'll tape it in a hotel ballroom to give it a big-time feel and use our staff as media with cameras and stuff.

 

We'll feed them some questions to ask and...BOOM!...brawl city.

 

Eric: Maybe we can have the set come crashing down like I saw during a brawl on the Wally George Show a few years back.

 

Greg: That sounds great! We'll put up a makeshift backdrop and they can wreck that.

 

Verne: Let's do it.

 

Eric, can you call my friend Tobe Hooper and see if he can quickly build some flats for us? We'll put our logo on it. We just need 4 to 5 flats around 7 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Tell him to use a chainsaw to cut the wood for the flats.

 

Eric: Will do.

 

Verne: That was a good idea, Eric.

 

I'll be sure to put in a good word for you with Bob Lurie.

 

Eric: Thank you, Verne. I appreciate it.

 

Verne: Let's get back to work.

 

Can one of you tell my secretary that she needs to contact Lawler and see if we can fly him up here ASAP?

 

Greg: Okay, dad.

 

Greg and Eric walked out.

 

Verne was about to take another risk.

 

But it felt like he was playing with house money since the AWA was about to be under new management and Verne's slot machine was about to hit Lucky 7's.

 

TO BE CONTINUED...

[Captain Kremmen]

SUMMER 1989

 

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

 

PRESS CONFERENCE DAY

 

Verne Gagne had received good news earlier in the morning that ESPN had agreed to a primetime timeslot (7pm ET) for Wednesday night, October 18, for the Super Clash 4 show.

 

TV producer Al DeRusha had tried to score a three hour window for the program, but had to compromise with the sports network (ESPN wanted to give two hours) and got 2-1/2 hours. Still pretty damn good.

 

Eric Bischoff had landed the Mecca Arena for the show by cutting some deals and selling himself to Mecca management and getting a 20% rental discount to book the Mecca for two days. Bischoff worked with Mecca management and secured the two dates needed for the show.

 

Now, the press conference was moments away.

 

The studio where promos were normally cut at AWA HQ was turned into a makeshift media room. The AWA logo hung on a black backdrop.

 

Two mics were on a table. Two chairs sat empty at the table. Two glasses and a pitcher of ice water sat on the table.

 

Members of the local Minneapolis-St. Paul media, from print, TV and radio, were on hand for this historic event.

 

Al Neuarth, publisher of the nation's newspaper, USA Today, sent a reporter to the press conference.

 

There were also reporters and photogs from historic AWA cities like Winnipeg, Milwaukee, Chicago, Omaha, Fargo, Vegas, etc. on hand as well.

 

Not to be forgotten: wrestling journos Bill Apter and George Napolitano were also there.

 

All had been carefully vetted and ushered into the studio where snacks and drinks awaited them.

 

Only a few wrestlers, all faces, were brought in for this historic event: AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter; AWA Women's Champ Wendi Richter; Wahoo McDaniel and Ken Patera.

 

Bob Lurie had arrived about 45 minutes before the press conference and sat in Verne's office chatting with Verne, the wrestlers on hand and some of Verne's staff, including Eric Bischoff.

 

When it came time for the press conference, AWA interviewer Larry Nelson (who thankfully was sober at the moment), walked out and picked up a mic off the table.

 

Flashbulbs went off.

 

Nelson: Good afternoon. I'm Larry Nelson.

 

Reporter: How do you spell Larry?

 

Everyone laughed.

 

Nelson: That's Larry...with four r's.

 

More chuckling.

 

Nelson: We are about to have a historic announcement from AWA owner and promoter Verne Gagne and real estate mogul and San Francisco Giants' owner Bob Lurie.

 

With them will be AWA wrestlers World Champion Sgt. Slaughter; Women's Champion Wendi Richter; Ken Patera and Chief Wahoo McDaniel.

 

Would you please welcome Verne Gagne and Bob Lurie.

 

Lurie and Gane walked into the studio to the blinding glare of flashbulbs. Lurie was carrying a large envelope. Each man took a seat at the table.

 

They were followed by the four wrestlers at the event. All the wrestlers were in street clothes (this isn't WWF shit where they dress in character for something like this) and stood behind Verne and Lurie. Sarge and Richter were carrying their titles, each cradled in their left arm.

 

Verne: Thank you all for coming.

 

As many of you know, things haven't been going too well for the AWA lately.

 

I've thought about several ways to try and save the promotion that I started in 1960. Hard to believe it's been 30 years almost.

 

I've talked with others who were interested in buying the promotion. I've talked with people I know about financing the promotion. I've thought about just trying to continue along the same path and make a go of it and hope for the best.

 

But, the man sitting to my left changed all that.

 

What I found when talking with Bob Lurie was a man I could trust. A man who has the best interest of the AWA at heart.

 

Bob Lurie wants to run a wrestling promotion...not a sports entertainment promotion.

 

He made me a fair offer and I feel extremely confident leaving the AWA in his hands.

 

Reporter: Will you be staying on in some capacity, Verne?

 

Verne: Yes, as a consultant for the next three years.

 

Please hold off your questions until after Bob Lurie speaks.

 

Bob.

 

Lurie reached into the envelope and pulled out a document and held it in the air. More blinding flashbulbs.

 

Lurie: Thank you, Verne.

 

This is the contract Verne and I signed to make the deal official.

 

I am excited about this opportunity.

 

First, I wanted to thank Verne for all the years of dedication to his chosen career. Verne has been highly successful both in the ring as a wrestler and as a promoter.

 

And meeting Sgt. Slaughter, Wendi, Wahoo and Ken was great. Talked with them for almost an hour. They want the AWA to come back in a big way.

 

I told Verne that I remember when Roy Shire used to run San Francisco and attending some of the cards. Those are fond memories. I was also fortunate to see some AWA cards at the Cow Palace and I liked what I saw.

 

My goal is to put the right people in place to make the AWA a true alternative to the WWF. I want the wrestling to come first. There are fans out there clamoring for serious wrestling and I aim to give it to them.

 

This promotion may be down right now, but I believe that we can get things turned around here or else I wouldn't have bought it.

 

There's really not much else to say except that it's the dawning of a new era for the AWA.

 

Verne: Any questions?

 

Bill Apter immediately raised his hand.

 

Verne: Yes, Bill?

 

Apter: Can either of you tell us how much the deal is worth?

 

Verne: We've discussed that. Bob and I decided to keep the financials amongst ourselves and our accountants.

 

Apter: Was it a fair deal in your mind, Verne?

 

Verne: Most definitely. Bob is a straight shooter.

 

Next.

 

Reporter: This is for Mr. Lurie.

 

Are you going to try and run the promotion yourself or...

 

Lurie: Not at all!

 

This is a unique entertainment business. Some people may think it's easy because it's wrestling. But there's a lot that goes into the presentation of this sport, mind if I call it a sport, both in and out of the ring. A wrestling promotion cannot be run by simpletons. You need people who know what they're doing in charge.

 

Reporter: What will Verne's role be as a consultant?

 

Lurie: He will have input on the wrestling side of things. I'm keeping him around for three years because of all his years of experience in the business. He's a fountain of wrestling knowledge and that's not something most people can say.

 

Napolitano: Bob, can you tell us if you're eyeing any certain wrestlers at the moment?

 

Lurie: No comment.

 

Napolitano: Is that all?

 

Lurie: No comment.

 

I should also point out something else. There will be a transition period of 4 to 6 weeks. Verne will still be 100% in charge during that time.

 

Apter: Verne, you've dedicated your life to the sport. How do you feel today?

 

Verne: There are some mixed emotions there, of course.

 

But this seemed like the right course of action right now. The AWA needed an infusion of new blood. And we've got it and the fans should be looking forward to great AWA action for the forseeable future.

 

Napolitano: Bob, can you give us your opinion of the WWF?

 

Lurie: It's a cartoon. Pure and simple. It's hard to sit and watch it. All the silly stuff they do that has nothing to do with pro wrestling. I don't get it.

 

They've got a lot of good talent.

 

But when wrestling is treated as a joke, good luck in getting your fans to take it seriously.

 

In my opinion, the sport side of wrestling has to override the entertainment side of things.

 

Verne: This is exhibit A of why I sold to him.

 

Reporter: Is Hulk Hogan on your wish list?

 

Lurie: No. Why? Vince McMahon has him locked up.

 

Not talking about acquiring other wrestlers right now.

 

The Q & A went on for another 10-15 minutes.

 

The press conference ended with a photo op of Verne and Bob standing at the table and shaking hands while the wrestlers, all smiles, looked on.

 

The sale was now final.

 

Bob Lurie, real estate mogul and owner of the San Francisco Giants, was now the owner of the AWA.

 

A new infusion of cash and ideas into the promotion would not be far behind.

 

Would Bob Lurie be the man to give Vince a run for his money?

 

TO BE CONTINUED...

 

(NOTE: New TV's coming soon!)

[Captain Kremmen]

Posting this a couple of days earlier than normal...

 

AWA VIDEO OF THE WEEK!

 

Introducing Mr. Go:

 

 

Mr. Go has a match!

 

From 1986, Mr. Go & Larry Zbysko vs. Curt Hennig & Mike Rotundo:

 

 

ENJOY!

[Theheel]

So now that things seem to be settled, how did you come to pick Bob Lurie as the new owner?

[Captain Kremmen]

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

 

(2nd 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: Greg Gagne & Jake Milliman vs. Akio Sato & Mr. Go (Go had previously wrestled in the AWA)

 

NON-TITLE INTERPROMOTIONAL MATCH: Sgt. Slaughter (WC) vs. Billy Joe Travis (from the USWA)

 

Jerry Lawler sees action

 

The debut of the tag team Wahoo McDaniel & Don Muraco

 

AND MORE!

 

Nelson sent it to the ring at the Showboat Sports Pavilion in Las Vegas.

 

THE RETURN OF KEN PATERA!

 

Patera made his return to the ring after being off for several months due to an arm injury suffered at the hands of Larry Zbysko.

 

Patera came out to a strong ovation.

 

Patera won a quick squash match over Mickey Dolenz in less than a minute via submission with the swinging full nelson

 

POST-MATCH IN-RING INTERVIEW:

 

Nelson: Ken Patera! Welcome back to the AWA!

 

Crowd cheered.

 

Patera: It's great to be back, Larry!

 

The support from these fans when I came to the ring was just amazing!

 

More cheers.

 

Nelson: Looks like the arm is 100%?

 

Patera: It is! And I worked hard at rehabbing it and it feels stronger than ever!

 

Nelson: You shocked Larry Zbysko a couple of weeks ago when you showed up during his match with Sam Houston. He lost that match. He's still hot about it and blames you for it.

 

Patera: After what Zbysko did to me a few months ago, Larry, he can get as heated as he wants!

 

Because when we step in this ring to face other and that bell rings...believe me when I tell you I'll be a lot angrier than he could ever be!

 

Zbysko put me on the shelf for several damn months!

 

I sat at home waiting to return to wrestling! I counted down the days until I could come back!

 

I had tunnel vision regarding Zbysko! He dominated my thoughts! The anger grew inside me until I was ready to explode!

 

Now I'm back and my first order of business is to repay Larry Zbysko for what he did to me!

 

Crowd cheered.

 

Nelson: Ken Patera, everybody!

 

More cheers.

 

AWA logo appeared on the screen with the caption: MORE TO COME!

 

Commercials

 

NON-TITLE INTERPROMOTIONAL MATCH: Sgt. Slaughter (WC) vs. Billy Joe Travis (from the USWA)

 

Before the match, Travis took the mic.

 

Travis: For those who don't know me, my name is Billy Joe Travis!

 

I come from the deep South!

 

The difference between the South and Las Vegas is this!

 

Las Vegas is a city of losers!

 

Crowd booed.

 

Travis: Just look at all those delusional people losing their paychecks in the Showboat casino or any other casino in this desert craphole!

 

I see now they have video poker! Yet another way to lose your money to the gambling beast! And you people take to it like a duck takes to water!

 

We ain't like that in the deep South! You Vegas folk are just t-r-a-s-h! Throw yourself away in one of the dumpsters here!

 

Oh! And Vegas women are very gross! They're not prim and proper like an upright Southern gal!

 

More boos.

 

Travis: And when I beat your hero Sarge tonight, then guess who becomes the #1 contender?!

 

In case you're slow on the draw, that would be me!

 

And if I win the belt...I'm taking it home with me to the glorious South and will only defend it in Southern cities where good, proper people live!

 

More boos.

 

Sarge came out to a strong crowd response and handed out little American flags to fans on the way to the ring.

 

Travis, a star in USWA, put up a fight with Sarge and came close on a couple of occasions to pulling off the upset victory before Sarge took control of the match and made Travis pass out in the Cobra Clutch - TIME: 5:08

 

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

 

Nelson: I guess Billy Joe Travis won't be getting a crack at the AWA World Championship.

 

Sarge laughed.

 

Sarge: Sure doesn't look like it, Larry.

 

Nelson: Two weeks ago, you accepted the challenge of Jerry Lawler to determine the undisputed AWA World Champion. But you did it only after Lawler struck you in the head with his version of the AWA World Title.

 

Sarge: That was indeed the tipping point! Lawler finally crossed the line with me and I could not let it stand!

 

Now is the time for action and not words!

 

He believes that he's the real AWA World Champion and I believe that I am!

 

We will now finally resolve this matter once and for all!

 

The only thing I ask of you Lawler is this...come at me face-to-face like a champion!

 

Don't do any of that sneaky crap!

 

That's all I ask of you, King! Step up like a real man and a real champion and we'll see who's standing at the end!

 

Crowd cheered.

 

Nelson: World Champion Sgt. Slaughter, everybody!

 

Pic aired of Wahoo and Muraco with the caption: NEXT... TAG TEAM DEBUT!

 

Commercials

 

Wahoo McDaniel & Don Muraco won a squash over Matt Stone & Trey Parker via pinfall when Wahoo pinned Stone with his Big Chop finisher

 

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

 

Nelson: Wahoo McDaniel and Don Muraco, an impressive first win as a tag team.

 

Muraco: Thank you, Larry.

 

I think this is the start of a solid partnership with the Chief.

 

This is just the first step on the path to our goal. And our goal is to win those tag team titles!

 

Crowd cheered.

 

Wahoo: Don summed it up nicely.

 

He asked me to be his tag team partner and I could not refuse.

 

We've been training and wrestling in sparring matches at the gym and we've really refined our ring work together. We are a solid team.

 

There's nowhere to go but up for us!

 

I'm excited and these fans should be, too!

 

Crowd cheered.

 

Nelson: Wahoo McDaniel and Don Muraco! The tag team scene just got even hotter here in the AWA!

 

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd pre-recorded comments from Greg Gagne and Jake Milliman as they prepare for their main event match against Sato & Mr. Go, who has returned to the AWA after touring the Orient.

 

Greg and Milliman were in their ring attire and standing in front of the AWA logo. Each man had a mic.

 

Greg: Well, Mr. Go has returned to the AWA and is teaming up with Akio Sato in the main event against the 'Milkman' and myself.

 

Go has been touring Asia. And from what we've heard, he's added new moves to his arsenal.

 

We've got to be on our toes in this one as this team is one big question mark for us heading into this match.

 

Milliman: Greg! I got your back, brother!

 

Greg: I know you do. I can't think of a better partner than you.

 

Milliman: I've been training like a madman lately, lifting lots of weights, running to the corner store for alcohol, cigarettes and milk! Lots and lots of milk! The 2% variety!

 

My bones are now super strong and I'm ready for the task at hand in the main event!

 

Greg! Let's go fight those Yellow folk and win one for the good ol' USA and dairys across the fruited plain!

 

Milliman started posing.

 

Greg: I'm with ya, 'Milkman'! Milk up, brother!

 

More Milliman poses.

 

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

 

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!

 

TV MAIN EVENT: Greg Gagne & Jake Milliman vs. Mr. Go & Akio Sato

 

Sato and Go entered the ring and Mr. Go was dressed like a ninja.

 

Gagne and Milliman made their way down the face aisle to a decent crowd response.

 

Once in the ring, Milliman, wearing a tank top that said 'Milkman' over a big bottle of milk, stood mid-ring and tore off the shirt and threw it into the crowd and then walked around the ring and cupped his ear to hear the crowd response, which actually grew when Jake did the ear cup.

 

Good back and forth battle between the two teams as Go and Sato put on a strong display of wrestling and threw in some martial arts moves as well.

 

Jake and Greg fought a strong fight, Greg hitting his high flying tactics and Milliman also doing his part offensively for the team.

 

Near falls on both sides.

 

At the end of the match, Jake and Sato were in the ring. Sato was on the offensive and worked Jake over with a series of moves. Sato whipped Jake into the ropes and caught Jake coming off with a kick to the chest that dropped Jake.

 

Sato snapped up Jake and hit a belly-to-back bridging suplex for the pin try. 1...2...thr...

 

Jake kicked out and quickly got to his knees. He was furiously blowing his cheeks in and out. Sato seemed stunned. Sato struck Jake with a shot to the head. Jake got to his feet and no-sold it. Sato punched Jake in the head again and again a no sell. Jake started shaking and stalked around the ring and pointed at Sato and yelled: You!

 

Sato tried again to punch Jake but Jake blocked the punch try and struck Sato with a series of head shots. Jake whipped Sato into the ropes and caught Sato coming off with a powerslam.

 

Fans eating up 'The Milkman'!

 

Jake ran and hit the ropes and came off with a the Pasteurizer (flying legdrop) that connected.

 

Jake for the cover and hooked the leg. 1...

 

Mr. Go hit the ring in an effort to break up the pin try.

 

...2...

 

Greg hit the ring and nailed Go with a dropkick and Go fell back through the top and middle rope and crashed to the concrete floor.

 

...3!

 

Ref called for the bell as the fans roared.

 

Greg and Jake briefly embraced and then Jake went into his victorious post-match posing routine as Greg played to the crowd.

 

Marshall: Are we seeing the dawn of 'Milkmanmania'!

 

Blears: I think so, Lee.

 

WINNER: Greg & Jake - Pinfall - 8:22

 

Pic aired of Jerry Lawler holding his version of the AWA Title with the caption: NEXT... 'THE KING' GRAPPLES!

 

Commercials

 

Jerry Lawler came down the heel aisle to boos and wearing his version of the AWA World Title and his crown.

 

Lawler won a squash over Julio Cruz via pinfall with the piledriver

 

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

 

Nelson climbed into the ring and joined the victorious Lawler.

 

Nelson: Jerry Lawler, two weeks ago you finally got Sgt. Slaughter to accept your challenge for a match to determine the undisputed AWA World Champion.

 

But it took sneak attacking Slaughter and clubbing him in the back of the head with your version of the AWA World Championship to get it.

 

Lawler: Larry, it's a sad indictment of Sgt. Slaughter that I had to use that kind of tactic to get him to accept my challenge.

 

He showed a serious lack of manhood by not accepting my challenge the night I showed up and challenged him to a match to decide who the real AWA World Champion is.

 

Then his testosterone level seemed to drop even more when he refused the offer for a match the following week.

 

My patience wore out very quickly with him.

 

I felt I had no choice but to do something drastic and so that's what I did.

 

Nelson: You proud of what you did?

 

Lawler: Proud? Well, hitting Sarge in then head with the belt got the desired result. As far as I'm concerned it was a piece of business that needed to be transacted.

 

Nelson: You've called Sarge's manhood into question. Why would you do that?

 

Lawler: Because a real man would have accepted the challenge right away, Nelson.

 

I never lost this belt.

 

Lawler held the belt in the air with one hand.

 

Lawler: Therefore, I should still be recognized as the AWA World Champion.

 

Slaughter's reign as the World Champion is illegitimate as far as I'm concerned because he never beat me.

 

He can reclaim his manhood if he beats me in the match to decide who the undisputed AWA Champion is.

 

Nelson: King, what you're saying is very... Wait a minute! here he comes!

 

Crowd popped as Sarge, his version of the AWA belt slung over his left shoulder, made his way down the face aisle to the ring and climbed in and walked right up to Lawler.

 

The pair were now face-to-face.

 

Nelson stood with the mic in between the two.

 

Sarge: So, you're out here saying I'm not a man, huh?

 

Lawler: That's right.

 

Sarge: Are you saying then that a real man sneaks up on people and bashes them in the head with a championship belt.

 

Lawler: You should have done the right thing for the sport and accepted my initial offer for a unification match.

 

I don't believe you accepted at first because you know I'm the biggest threat you face for the right to be recognized as the AWA World Champion.

 

Sarge: Is that so?

 

Lawler: Yep. That's what I believe.

 

It's time for you to man up now, Sarge.

 

A World Champion has to be a real man.

 

Sarge: I'm getting real tired of your mouth, Lawler.

 

Lawler: Then why don't you try and do something about it.

 

Sarge chuckled and turned his head. Lawler went to strike Sarge with his version of the AWA World Title but Sarge blocked the cheap shot try and Lawler's belt fell to the ground. Sarge's belt fell off his shoulder. Sarge tackled Lawler to the mat and started pounding away on Lawler as the fans came alive.

 

Sarge hammered away on Lawler with his fists and Lawler fought back and the two scrapped on the mat.

 

Faces, heels, referees and AWA officials hit the ring in an effort to break up the fight.

 

After a brief struggle, wrestlers were able to pull Sarge, who was on top, off of Lawler and get him to a corner. Heel wrestlers grabbed Lawler and got him to the opposite corner.

 

Both men still wanted at each other but the wrestlers and officials kept the two warring factions apart. Tension filled the Showboat Sports Pavilion.

 

Slaughter broke away from the guys keeping him at bay and charged over and jumped on Lawler and started pounding Lawler again. Lawler fought back.

 

The scrum was brief and the sides were separated once again.

 

Marshall: We are out of time! We'll let you know if something else happens between these two on next week's show!

 

CLOSING CREDITS:

[Captain Kremmen]

So now that things seem to be settled, how did you come to pick Bob Lurie as the new owner?

 

Just trying to think of another sports owner from that time making a bid to buy the promotion.

 

Thought about football (maybe I should have gone with LA Rams' owner Georgia Frontiere! ) but for some reason baseball and the SF Giants popped into my head and just resonated with me.

 

Looked up who the owner was and remembered the name when I saw it. I Wiki'd him and made the decision to run with him. He would have been 63 at the time.

 

He's still alive today.

[Theheel]

Just trying to think of another sports owner from that time making a bid to buy the promotion.

 

Thought about football (maybe I should have gone with LA Rams' owner Georgia Frontiere! ) but for some reason baseball and the SF Giants popped into my head and just resonated with me.

 

Looked up who the owner was and remembered the name when I saw it. I Wiki'd him and made the decision to run with him. He would have been 63 at the time.

 

He's still alive today.

 

For some reason I've always had Red McCombs on my list to do that. Was involved with the Spurs in the ABA, then owned the Nuggets for a time in the mid-80's and finally had a run as owner of the Vikings in Minnesota, but they wouldn't build him a new stadium so he sold in 2005

[Captain Kremmen]

For some reason I've always had Red McCombs on my list to do that. Was involved with the Spurs in the ABA, then owned the Nuggets for a time in the mid-80's and finally had a run as owner of the Vikings in Minnesota, but they wouldn't build him a new stadium so he sold in 2005

 

He would have been a logical choice to buy the company since he owned the Vikings.

 

You gonna do an AWA diary? That would be cool to see what you come up with.

[Theheel]

He would have been a logical choice to buy the company since he owned the Vikings.

 

You gonna do an AWA diary? That would be cool to see what you come up with.

 

I full into a cverse one right now, but maybe eventually. I’ve been wanting to do the Cverse women’s one in the 2010 universe for a long time