TigerSamurai's LOW/NWA

[Sam Fain]

Here's the first installment of my Legends fed. I've set things up like a cross between the old school NWA and AWA circa mid 70s to mid 80s. I'll be using official cards only and currently have a roster that includes all the wrestlers up until Legends Teams. Hope ya'll enjoy, can't wait to hear comments! Thanks,
~Sam

LOW/NWA Card #1
Mid-South Coliseum, Memphis, TN
Play-By-Play: Gordon Solie
Color/Guest: “Wild” Red Berry
Ring Announcer: Gary Michael Capetta
Interviews: Bill Apter

1) Singles: Bobo Brazil vs Frank Gotch

GMC: This match is scheduled for one fall with a 30 minute time limit. It is an opening round match in the 8-Man tournament to crown a new World’s Heavyweight Champion. In the blue corner weighing in at 280 lbs and standing 6’4” hailing from Benton Harbor, MI: BOBO BRAZIL! And his opponent coming to you from Humboldt Iowa at 6’, 208 lbs, the one, the only FRANK GOTCH!

In an astounding match that almost went the 30 minute time limit Frank Gotch forced a bloody, bloody, and battered Bobo Brazil to submit to the Spinning Toe Hold in 29’12”. Though Gotch dominated and bloodied Bobo early on, Brazil made a huge comeback and punished Gotch for a while busting him open with a big time Coco Butt. But Gotch would not stay down and then the two kept pounding and grinding away at one another until a change of fortune led Gotch to his patented hold and a stunning victory. Bobo= 9, Gotch= 5. ****1/2.

Winner: Frank Gotch in 29’12” with the Spinning Toe Hold

2) Singles: Giant Baba vs Buddy Rogers

GMC: Ladies and gentleman this next contest is an opening round match in the tournament to determine a world champion! It is scheduled for 1 fall with a 30 minute time limit. In the corner to my left hailing from Sanjo, Nilgata, Japan at 6’10”, 298 lbs: GIANT BABA! His opponent at 6’1” and weighing 227 lbs: The “Nature Boy” BUDDY ROGERS!

Baba manhandled the Nature Boy early on and almost scored a surprisingly early win after two consecutive Neckbreaker Drops. Rogers battled back, though and the match evened out a bit until the big man took over again. However, in an unlikely move, Baba went up top and missed a knee drop. Most thought Rogers would wisely use this to slap on the figure-4, but instead he went up top not once but three times! On the third trip off the top Baba stumbled back and got caught in the ropes. Rogers continued his assault, even punching the referee! When the ref got to his feet he called for the bell and stunned an angry Rogers with a DQ. Rogers= 4. ***1/2

Winner: Giant Baba in 10’22” by DQ

3) Singles: George Hackenschmidt vs Nick Bockwinkel

GMC: Ladies and gentlemen this next contest is another opening round match in the tournament to crown a champion. It is scheduled for one fall with a 30-minute time limit. Introducing first from Dorpat, Estonia, he stands 6’ and weighs in at 230 lbs, he is the Russian Bear, George Hackenschmidt! And his opponent, accompanied to the ring by his manager, Bobby “the Brain” Heenan he hails from Beverly Hills, CA and stands 6’1” tall weighing 245 lbs, Nick Bockwinkel!

In a short see-saw battle both men were in winning situations, but it was Bockwinkel who eventually came out on top after slapping on the figure four! Heenan kept a low-profile in this one, only shouting encouragement to his man from the outside. Hack.= 4, Bock.= 4 ***

Winner: Nick Bockwinkel in 6’43” with the Figure Four

4) 6-Man Tag: Snuka, Brody, Ware vs Valentines & Rose

GMC: This next contest is a special attraction 6-Man tag team bout! Introducing first, hailing from Seattle Washington and weighing a combined 498 lbs: father and son, Johnny and Greg; The Valentines! And their partner from Minneapolis, MN at 6’ tall 271 lbs, “Playboy” Buddy Rose! Now making their way to the ring at a combined weight of 762lbs, the team of Koko B. Ware, Bruiser Brody, and Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka!

Before the bell could even ring The Valentines and Rose attacked on the outside. The Hammer and Superfly paired off near the timekeepers table exchanging blows. The Hammer tried to smash Snuka into the table, but the Superfly blocked and smashed The Hammer head first into it. Snuka rolled Greg in and the bell rung as the other four men were finally wrangled to their respective corners by officials. Once the action was finally contained Snuka and Hammer went at it back and forth for a while. Greg tagged in Johnny and then Brody came in and both men scored near-falls on one another. The beginning of the end may have been when Johnny tagged in Rose. The Playboy came close to scoring a huge upset, but only seemed to rouse Brody’s anger! Bruiser eventually scored a pinfall on Rose after a twisting vertical suplex! Brody= 3, JV= 2, Rose= 4 ***

Winner: Brody over Rose in 9’15” by pinfall.

5) Singles: Harley Race vs Mil Mascaras

GMC: This next contest is the final opening round bout for the tournament to crown a world’s champion! Introducing first from Kansas City, MO standing 6’1” and weighing 268lbs, “Handsome” Harley Race! And his opponent making his way to the ring from San luis Potosi, Mexico at 5’11”, 245lbs, Mil Mascaras! This contest will be scheduled for one fall and a 30 minute time limit.

These two went full bore early on and both hit hi impact moves, but when the action spilled out of the ring, Race took too many liberties and the referee saw no other choice but to call for the DQ! Race= 3 **

Winner: Mil Mascaras in 4’42” by way of DQ

6) Tag Team: The Midnight Express vs The Road Warriors (for the vacant World Tag Team Titles)

GMC: This next contest will be a tag team bout scheduled for one fall with a 30 minute time limit. It is for the vacant World Heavyweight Tag Team Championship! Entering the ring at this time accompanied by Jim Cornette at a combined wait of 458 lbs, beautiful Bobby and Stan Lane, the Midnight Express! Their opponents managed by Paul Ellering and weighing 562 lbs, the team of Hawk and Animal, The Road Warriors!

Hawk and Stan Lane began the action. There was some amazing action in this one that, like the opener, almost went the full 30 minutes. Eaton, and the Road Warriors were bloody. The Express pushed the Warriors to their limits early almost scoring a victory multiple times. But Hawk and Animal would not be denied. Amazing back and forth action all throughout this match and both teams played to their strengths beautifully. The Midnights used speed, flying, and underhanded tactics, including Cornette’s interference. While the Road Warriors used amazing power and resiliency, that, in the end, won the Tag titles for them, in dramatic fashion. The closing seconds saw the Road Warriors hit The Doomsday Device on Bobby Eaton. Hawk went for the cover, but Stan Lane not only made the save, but hit Hawk with a powerful elbow to the back of the head! Lane then helped Eaton to the top rope. Hawk to his feet, dazed, doesn’t know where he is. Eaton with the cross body from the top… NO! Hawk counters with a powerslam from no where. Lane’s back is turned as the ref makes the 1,2,3! Eaton= 6, Lane= 4, Animal- 7, Hawk= 9. *****

Winners and NEW Tag Team Champions of the World, The Road Warriors (Hawk over Eaton by pinfall in 29’07”).

Post-Match: Stunned Cornette and Lane helped Eaton out of the ring and stood seething, look on as the bloody and battered Road Warriors leaned against the ropes and raised the belts high. Ellering grabbed a mic.
ELLERING: That’s right Jim Cornette! You are fixing your glazed eyes on the most dominant tag team in the prolific and legendary history of our sport! I give you, Cornette, Eaton, and Lane… And ALL these people who paid their hard-earned dollars to see my Road Warriors win tonite… I give YOU, the Tag Team Champions of the World!

[Sam Fain]

LOW/NWA Card #1 Post-Show Notes:

-George Hackenschmidt, unhappy with his performance, has decided to take a break from the ring and will not be competing for the near future.

-Harley Race is steamed at Mil Mascaras, calling it a cowards trick to find a way out of the ring (it was Race who threw him out) and draw a DQ on Race by cowering in a corner (Race pummeled Mascaras out of the ring and used a chair!).

-Buddy Rogers is calling the officiating biased to allow foreigners into his tournament. Clearly he was beating Baba and the ref had no right to stick his nose in, so he did what he had to do.

-Jim Cornette is petitioning the board for a rematch with the Road Warriors at the next house show! Rumor has it a battered Eaton may sit this one out and Dennis Condrey will pair with Stan Lane for the bout!

-Frank Gotch was interviewed backstage. A fresh bandage adorned his forehead, its center showing signs of the bloody battle earlier with Bobo Brazil. He went on to say he thinks Bobo is a great competitor and he may have underestimated him. He feels good in spite of the grueling bout, though and hopes he can advance further in the tournament.

-Nick Bockwinkel and Bobby Heenan were also interviewed backstage. Oozing confidence, the two assured it was a no-brainer as to who would be taking home the title at the end of this little game.

[Sam Fain]

LOW Card #2
Charlotte Coliseum, Charlotte, NC
Play-By-Play: Gordon Solie
Color/Guest: “Wild” Red Berry
Ring Announcer: Gary Michael Capetta
Interviews: Bill Apter

1) Singles: Johnny Valentine vs Cousin Luke

GMC: This opening contest is scheduled for one fall with a 20 minute time limit. From Hog Waller, TN at 6’2” weighing 270lbs, Cousin Luke. And his opponent accompanied to the ring by his son Greg “the Hammer” Valentine, from Seattle, WA at 6’4” weighing 255lbs. Johnny Valentine.

Luke surprised Valentine with some offensive flurries, but Johnny wouldn’t take much before turning the tables. He took a lot out of the TN native and even busted him open on the outside which led to an Atomic Skullcrusher for the win. Valentine= 2, Luke= 7 **1/2

Winner: Johnny Valentine by pinfall in 9’42”

2) WH Tourn: Mil Mascaras vs. Giant Baba

GMC: This is the first of two semi-final bouts for the World Heavyweight Championship! It is scheduled for one fall with a 30 minute time limit. Hailing from Mexico the man of a thousand masks Mil Mascaras! And his opponent from the land of the Rising Sun Giant Baba!

What a great bout. Baba basically outwrestled Mascaras early on with flourishes of power on occasional, but explosive display. Mascaras’ chest was a mess from repeated Baba chops. However, the closing moments saw Mascaras whipped into the turnbuckle only to move out of the way at the last minute! Baba careened into the post and was hurt bad, but a roll-up didn’t get the job done. It took two Flying Bodypresses to finally put him away. Baba= 4 ***1/2

Winner: Mil Mascaras by pinfall in 15’22”
3) WH Tourn: Frank Gotch vs. Nick Bockwinkel

GMC: This next bout is a semi-final match in the World Heavyweight championship tournament. It is a one-fall contest with a 30 minute time limit. First, hailing from Humboldt, IA standing 6’, 208lbs., Frank Gotch. And his opponent accompanied to the ring by Bobby “the Brain” Heenan, hailing from Beverly Hills, CA at 6’1” tall weighing 245lbs, Nick Bockwinkel!

In a hotly contested bout these two men threw everything at one another in a very intense fashion. It may not have gone long, but Bockwinkel manhandled Gotch on the outside and busted him open. Gotch wouldn’t stay down though and even made his way out of both the sleeper and the lfigure-4. A frustrated Bockwinkel went up top, but Gotch moved, went for a roll up and got the 1,2,3, shocking both Bock and Heenan! Gotch= 4 ***

Winner: Frank Gotch in 7’24” by pinfall.

4) Singles: Masked Superstar vs. Bobo Brazil

GMC: This match is scheduled for one fall and it has a 15 minute time limit. Introducing first from Atlanta, GA standing 6’2” tall and weighing in at 269lbs. The Masked Superstar! And his opponent from Benton Harbor, MI at 6’4”, 280lbs. Bobo Brazil!

This match was filled with great action. Fairly standard bout. Back and forth early on. The heel took control and dominated almost scoring a pin a couple of times. Bobo, though, wouldn’t be denied and staged a slow methodical comeback that led to a pinfall victory after a Bobo body slam. MS=4, BB= 3 ***1/2

Winner; Bobo Brazil by pinfall in 12’11”

5) Singles: The Destroyer vs SD Jones

GMC: This next contest is scheduled for one fall. It has a 15 minute time limit. From Philadelphia, PA, 6’ yall, 238 lbs. SD “Special Delivery” Jones! And his opponent hailing from parts unknown and standing 5’10” weighing 230 lbs. The Destroyer!

SD came out on fire and even had the Destroyer down a few times, but then the masked man came back and lived up to his name. Jones didn’t stand a chance as Destroyer targeted the knees using the single leg crab to soften him up for the figure four… But Jones didn’t tap! Destroyer kept it applying it, but Jones wouldn’t give! Finally after wearing him down some more a single leg crab practically tore Jones’ leg off and he had to tap out and be helped out of the ring. The Destroyer showed no mercy, though and kicked and spat at Jones as he was being carried out! SD= 9 **1/2

Winner: The Destroyer by submission in 6’03”

6) Southern Title: Ray Stevens vs. Larry Hennig

GMC: Ladies and gentlemen this next bout is for the vacant NWA Southern Title! It is scheduled for one fall with a 30 minute limit. Introducing first from Robbinsdale, MN at 6’1”, 290 lbs. Larry “the Axe” Hennig! And his opponent from San Francisco, CA standing 5’10” and weighing 230 lbs. Ray Stevens!

These two jockeyed for position in the opening moments, but then Ray Stevens exploded on the offense and after taking Hennig’s legs out with a figure four he hit a BOMBS AWAY from the shockingly early 1,2,3! HENNIG= 4 **

Winner and new NWA Southern Champion: Ray Stevens by pinfall in 3’23”

7) Tag Team: Killer Bees vs. Fabulous Kangaroos

GMC: This next match is a tag team attraction! It is scheduled for one fall with a 20 minute time limit. At a combined weight of 465 lbs, hailing from Sydney Australia, accompanied by their manager “Wild” Red Berry, the Fabulous Kangaroos! And their opponents at a combined weight of 469 lbs Jumping Jim Brunzell and B. Brian Blair, the Killer Bees!

The Kangaroos jumped the Bees before they even made it into the ring! They battled outside the ring until finally the Bees got the upper hand and Brunzell rolled Costello in and the ref called for the bell! Finally the match was under way!

What a match! Costello was isolated early on but went toe to toe and back and forth with both Brunzell and Blair. Finally the Kangaroos were able to completely cut off the ring from Blair and work him over big time. He was a bloody mess by the time the match was over, but what a match it was. These four brawled in and out of the ring before and during the match. In the end the Kangaroos hit the BOOMERANG and Costello made the cover on a bloody Brunzell for the 1,2,3! BLAIR=9 ***1/2

Winners: The Fabulous Kangaroos (Costello over Blair by pinfall in 17’22”)

8) US Title: Don Muraco vs. The Crusher 2/3 Falls Match

GMC: Ladies and gentlemen this next match is for the vacant United States Heavyweight Championship! It is a two out of three falls bout with a 30 minute time limit. Introducing first, accompanied by his manager Captain Louis Albano, hailing from Sunset Beach, Hi and standing 6’3” tall, weighing 273 lbs, the Magnificent Don Muraco! And his opponent from Milwaukee, WI at 5’11”, 265 lbs. The Crusher!

First Fall: Mostly Muraco, but Crusher had some bursts of offense that went a long way including coming close to a submission victory with a bear hug and a full nelson. Muraco too scored a couple of nearfalls early. The action spilled out of the ring after Muraco escaped another full nelson and rolled under the ropes. Crusher follwed but Muraco rammed his head into the ringpost. Crusher now bleeding was rolled and Muraco worked him over with a few power moves before making a cover after a choke slam and for the 1,2,3. MURACO=5, CRUSHER=6

Fall One: Muraco by pinfall in 16’40”

Second Fall: Both men battled back and forth taking a hell of a lot out of one another. The action nwas furious and Albano got involved breaking up a pin attempt by the Crusher after CRUSHERS BOLO! Both men kept battling back from near falls and the action spilled out of the ring more often than not. It was one hell of a match and the end came with both men trying to put the other away furiously pulling out big moves and submission holds, but the bell rang and the referee was told the time limit had expired! Officials crowded the ring as the bloody Muraco was seen to by his manager Albano and even the Valiant brothers came out to join their stable mate and manager. Meanwhile an equally bloody Crusher sat in the corners with a beer in his hand as blood covered his forehead and the sides of his face in the proverbial crimson mask. MURACO= 7, CRUSHER=5 (subtracted 1 from previous falls rating after rest period)

Fall Two: DRAW as a result of the time limit expiring (30’00”)

Result: Officials conferred with the time keeper and the referee for a long while as fans waited, yelling comments, mostly in the Crusher’s favor. Gary Michael Capetta finally spoke to the crowd as the wrestlers and crew listened intently. The decision on the basis of the 2/3 fall match, since Muraco won the first fall and the second fall was a draw rendering the third fall null and void, therefore the winner and new US Heavyweight champion Don Muraco! The fans were not happy and booed and hurled trash at the ring. The Crusher tossed his beer can out of the ring and if it hadn’t been for the officials he would’ve easily gotten his hands on the new champ, Albano, or one of the Valiants. As the officials held him back Albano’s crew and the new champ high-tailed it! This one isn’t over!.

Winner: Don Muraco in 30’00” ****

Post-Show Notes:

- Heenam/Bockwinkel: These two tried to come up with any and every excuse they could from excessive use of “corn-oil” on Gotch’s body to biased officiating. Heennan says he’ll petition the board until they give his man the first shot at the new champ whoever it is, but Gotch better watch out!

- Gotch vs Mascaras World Title Preview: This could be a mat classic, but if Mascaras does let Gotch dictate that sort of pace can he possibly survive to the best pure wretler in the NWA? This match is sure to best expectations!

- Ray Stevens Southern Championship win and potential contenders

- Kangaroos vs Bees: Feud brewing? The Bees want a rematch with the Kangaroos after their defeat and while Red Berry may not want to sign on the dotted line just yet he and his team can’t dodge the Bees forever… Still, do the Kangaroos deserve a title shot yet?

- Muraco vs Crusher: Feud over the US Title? Apter will interview The Crusher on the next show. The controversy that surrounded the finish of this match will go down in history as it decided the NWA US Title, but the board stands by its decision and recognizes Muraco as the champion. However, they are willing to consider giving the Crusher a rematch.

[Sam Fain]

LOW Card #3
Greensboro Coliseum, Greensboro, NC
Play-By-Play: Gordon Solie
Color/Guest: “Wild” Red Berry
Ring Announcer: Gary Michael Capetta
Interviews: Bill Apter

1) Singles: Al Costello vs Jimmy Snuka (1 Fall, 20-minute)

This match went back and forth for its entirety. It started off with Costello trying to keep Snuka on the mat, but the wild on e wouldn’t be kept down. He used his power advantage to rally back. Both used their superior agility and kept the pace fast. The action would spill out of the ring a few minutes in and then it devolved into an uncharacteristic brawl. This combined with hi-inmpact moves took their toll on Costello and Snuka hit a visious piledriver on the outside for a countout victory! COSTELLO= 5

Winner: Jimmy Snuka by CO in 8’02” ***1/2

APTER w/ Ray Stevens and Bobby the Brain Heenan:

The NWA Southern Champion was asked about contenders. He and Heenan joked that there wasn’t anyone out there that could hold a candle to the Blonde Bomber. Apter mentioned Danny Hodge as a legitimate challenger. Heenan laughed him off and Stevens added that someone like Hodge should’ve stuck to benig an amateur because he’ll never hold a candle to a real professional. Stevens called him a chump and said he wasn’t half the wrestler Stevens was. This brought Hodge out, but before Hodge could get more than a sentence out Rick Rude and the Masked Superstar were beating him down! Big time! Frank Gotch happened to be in the area and tried to make the save, but it was too late. Hodge was beaten and bloodied and stretchered out. He’ll be injured for two fight cards.

2) 6-Man Tag: Midnight Express w/ Jim Cornette vs Killer Bees & Brad Armstrong (1 Fall, 30-minute)

The makings of a great match. The bees and Armstrong were way over. The idnights were booed accordingly. Back and forth action early and the Midnights worked together like a well-oiled machine. Not to be outdone the Bees made some good tag work happen as well. The finish saw Blair come off the top on Condrey. Cornette jumped to the apron with his megaphone and Blair yanked it from him while the ref was distracted by Eaton and Lane. Condrey was laid out and the ref through Blair hit him with the megaphone, drawing the dq for his team. BRUNZELL= 4

Winners: The Midnight Express by DQ (Blair on Condrey) in 9’34”

3) Singles: Jimmy Valiant w/ Johnny Valiant vs Antonio Inoki (1 Fall 20-minte)

Really good little match! Valiant brought it early on, even going for an early cover, but to no avail. Inoki would make a comeback on the outside and then just picked Valiant apart. At one point Inoki applied the OCTOPUS HOLD, but Johnny Valiant jumped on the apron for his brother, Inoki broke the hold and hit a noggin-knocker! He then made the cover on Jimmy for the 1,2,3! INOKI = 3, VALIANT= 5

Winner: Antonio Inoki by pinfall in 7’22” ***

APTER: The Road Warrios w/ Paul Ellering

The tag team chmpions are jacked and ready for all comers including the Might Express! Sure Dennis Condrey changes the gameplan a bit, but when you have a manager like Precious Paul in your corner and a no count like Cornette in the other its clear where the advantage lies. Ellering expounds on his teams attributes and promises no one will be able to take these straps from his boys! Then the Midnight Express and Cornette come out! Its four on three! Cornette hollers about his team deserving a shot and more interview time, they’re the best thing going and no one, not even the Road Warriors can match their prowess! A HUGE brawl ensues! Officials are called in and security! Finally the seven men are separated, but the interview are is left in shambles and this feud is hotter than ever!

4) Tag Team: DiBiase & Williams vs. The Flying Redheads (1 Fall, 30-minute)

Williams and DiBiase stormed the ring and attacked the Flying Redheads before the bell outside the ring! Eventually Williams rolled in Lyons after slamming him headfirst into the ringpost, busting him open! Williams immediately hit a backdrop driver to start the official action as the bell rung! This one might not be pretty… Wow! Steve Williams was the workhorse. DiBiase never tagged in, then again, Williams never tagged out. It worked for most of the match as Dr. Death pummeled the Redheads, though they were able to get in some offensive flurries here and there due to their agility and seamless and frequent tag work! The crazy finish saw multiple tags between the Redheads leading to a setoff rapid fire dropkicks followed by an ATOMIC DROP from Bastien! DiBiase tried to make the save, but Lyons was on top of him and the ref counted the shocking 1,2,3! The Redheads proved without a doubt that fast-paced, hi-impact, tag work can take down the mightiest of warriors! But this was practically a handicap match… BASTIEN= 3, LYONS= 5, WILLIAMS= 7

Winners: The Flying Redheads by pinfall (Red Bdastien over Steve Williams) in 15’52” ****

5) Singles: Nick Bockwinkel w/ Bobby Heenan vs. Giant Baba (1 Fall 30-minute)

Wow. Baba started strong in the opening minutes, but Heenan would not let his charge down, not this time. He distracted the ref while Bockwinkel smashed Baba’s knees and back with a chair! Still Baba hung in there longer than anyone would’ve thought! But it was pretty much all Bockwinkel after that. He attacked the legs of the big man viciously and worked him over with the Boston Crab and Figure-4! Aerial tactics came in handy for Bock as well, surprisingly enough. Finally, he cinched in the SLEEPER and would not let go! Baba slowly faded, though he fought strongly and was very over with the crowd, while Bock and Heenan garnered major heat! BABA= 6

Winner: Nick Bockwinkel by submission in 6’13” ***

BILL APTER: This week, Apter welcomes the Crusher!

-The Crusher tells the NWA to get on board with the rest of his buddies down at the bar and see the error of their ways. He deserves a rematch and even though he might not get it tonite, it better happen soon! Muraco and Albano messed with the wrong guy and next time they’ll pay! In fact, Muraco shouldn’t even be recognized as champ… Certainly not undisputed!

6) US Title: Iron Sheik vs Don Muraco © w/ Cpt. Lou (1 Fall, 30-minute)

What a war! These two battled full out and brawled and mixed it up in and out of the ring. Both men displayed their power and devious ways. Capt Lou may have given Muraco the edge he needed as it looked like Sheik was going to put him away a couple of times! Eventually both men were bloody and battered. Sheik could barely stand at the end but he would not tap out to any of Muraco’s holds. Finally a solid neckbreaker followed by a cover was what it took! Lots of out of the ring action in this one! What a brawl! SHEIK= 8, MURACO- 6

Winner: Don Muraco by pinfall in 12’56” ****

7) Singles: Buddy Rogers vs. Bobo Brazil (1 Fall 30-minute)

Rogers tried for a sneak attack before the bell, but Bobo got the upper hand! He smashed Rogers into the time-keepers table! This was a wild brawl with Brazil providing much of the offense and Rogers continually rolling out of the ring at any time he was in trouble. That actually led to the finish as a bloody Rogers rolled out on dream street after COCO BUTT followed by a body slam. Bobo followed him and it may have been a mistake as Rogers attacked and rammed Brazil into the rinpost repeatedly and then used a chair! The ref called for the DQ as a battered and bloody Rogers escaped with only a DQ loss, looking strong over a fallen Brazil! Is this the beginning of something? ROGERS= 6

Winner: Bobo Brazil by DQ in 4’02”

8) HWCh Finals: Frank Gotch vs. Mil Mascaras (1 Fall, 60-minute time limit)

GMC: This match is the final for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship!

What a match! It may have lasted just a short few minutes, but they put on a hell of a display and told a great story! Mascaras went hi-impact early on, even hitting the FLYING BODYPRESS in the opening moments for a nearfall! But Gotch battled back reversing a deep arm drag into the Iowa Backdrop! The crowd went crazy as Gotch started his comeback fter taking non-stop punishment from Mascaras! The action was a little back and forth for a bit and Gotch took Mascaras to the mat and stretched him in a variety of ways, but there was also some excellent chain wrestling. They really mixed it up. Mascaras was hurt by another backdrop and rolled out, but Gotch, ring-general that he is, stayed in the ring and cut off an entrance for Mascaras. When he came in to meet the count Gotch immediately went for the TOEHOLD and Mascaras tapped! Gotch celebrated in the ring afterwards as the fans cheered the Iowa-native on! MASCARAS= 3, GOTCH= 3

Winner and new NWA World Heavyweight Champion: Frank Gotch by submission in 9’48” with the GOTCH TOEHOLD ****

Post-Show Notes:

- The Heenan Family looks pretty strong after this week as Stevens, Superstar, and Rude laid the hurt on Danny Hodge, putting him out of action for a while. Bockwinkel also looks great after his match with Baba and Heenan is petitioning the NWA for a title match with Gotch, saying its not bad enough someone like Hodge thinks he can challenge Ray Stevens, but when Gotch stuck his nose in he became a marked man two times over! One for having that title and two for getting in the way of putting Hodge out of this business! FEUD: Hodge (Gotch)/Stevens (Bockwinkel)

- The Road Warriors and the Midnight Express feud may be the hottest thing going right now! The huge brawl at the middle of the show was insane! No matter what the configuration is this tag war will explode and its about more than just the titles! These men have no respect for one another and are willing to do whatever it takes to tear the other apart.

- Apter asked Dr. Death if he was bothered by the events surrounding his tag match with DiBiase. Williams shrugged the question off by saying he’s paid to do a job and that’s protect his friend and tag team partner and he’ll do it. He knows Ted’s got his back and isn’t sweating the Flying Redheads. They got lucky, but what comes around, goes around!

- Baba is really over with the fans despite his loss. He’s definitely one of the top baby-faces around right now with only Gotch and the Road Warriors ranking above him.

- The Crusher has been heard! The NWA is taking his challenge and the promoters’ thoughts into account and will be deliberating over a US Title Rematch!

- Speaking of the US Title, Muraco’s first defense was successful, but the Iron Sheik took him to the limit! With Sheik looking that strong its clear he’ll keep himself in the title picture.

- The Rogers/Brazil bout was filled with hate! It was a brawl pure and simple and the aftermath has sown even more seeds for the future! This feud could be hot!

- Frank Gotch spoke with reporters after his historic win. He assured the fans and the NWA that he intended on upholding the integrity and honor of the sport by carrying the title to new heights. He’s honored to have beaten an international competitor for the world title and looks forward to defending it against all comers at any corner of the globe. Addressing the Heenan Family: What they did to my friend Danny Hodge was despicable and should Hodge need backup when he gets off the shelf, he’s got a world champ in his corner! As for Bockwinkel, if the NWA deems him a worthy opponent he’ll face him anytime, anywhere, just like he said!

[Crimson Cross]

I really like your set-up in your write-up's, very good fed here and it's cool to see Frank Gotch at the top...

[Sam Fain]

Here's a preview of the next card emanating from Asheville, NC! The tour of the great state of North Carolina is almost over and the next card will be Starrcade! Predictions and comments always welcome! Results will be forthcoming!

LOW Card #4
Asheville Civic Center , Asheville, NC
Play-By-Play: Gordon Solie
Color/Guest: “Wild” Red Berry
Ring Announcer: Gary Michael Capetta
Interviews: Bill Apter

1) 6-Man: The Midnight Express w/ Jim Cornette vs. The Killer Bees & Hawk w/ Animal
The Midnight Express/Road Warriors feud takes an interesting turn as Hawk joins the Killer Bees in this 6-man tag match! With their upcoming title bout at Starrcade will the ring contain this explosive feud even with Animal on the outside?

APTER: Buddy Rogers
Rumor has it Rogers has it out for Bobo Brazil and may challenge him to a bout at Starrcade!

2) Singles: Masked Superstar vs. Rikidozan

3) Tag Team: Orton Boys vs. Inoki & Baba

APTER: NWA US Champ Don Muraco
Muraco and Capt. Lou stand by the undisputed tag on his championship reign, what will they have to say about the NWA's upcoming decision about a rematch with The Crusher!

4) Singles: Koko B. Ware vs Jim Londos

5) Tag Team: The Fabulous Kangaroos vs. Bruiser Brody & Jimmy Snuka
After Snuka's vicious piledriver on the outside to AL Costello last week there's definitely some bad blood already brewing, but the Kangaroos have one thing in mind, tag team gold! Will they be able to handle the mayhem of Brody and Snuka or will the wild men take a step towards the straps?

6) Singles: Jimmy Valiant vs. SD Jones

APTER: Bobby Heenan presents Rick Rude & King Kong Bundy
After their vicious attack on Danny Hodge the Heenan Family is setting their sights on ALL the belts and the Brain will show off his brutal tag team!

7) Singles: Steve Williams vs. Red Bastien w/ Billy Lyons
Dr. Death still stands by his partner and benefactor Ted DiBiase even after the latter's lack of involvement in their tag match last card. Tonite, Dr. Death will attempt payback on the man that shockingly pinned him last card!

8) Choice: Nick Bockwinkel & Ray Stevens (S/ch) w/ Bobby Heenan vs. Frank Gotch (W/ch) & Danny Hodge (inj)
The Heenan family beat down Hodge last card and has targeted Gotch for his belt. Tonite Gotch makes good on his promise as the injured Hodge looks for payback in spite of his injuries! This is one main event you don't want to miss!

[Crimson Cross]

Again I like your write-up's, Starrcade looks really excellent and can't wait to read this one for sure...

I have one pick of Brody & Snuka Wins!

[Sam Fain]

LOW Card #4
Asheville Civic Center , Asheville, NC
Play-By-Play: Gordon Solie
Color/Guest: “Wild” Red Berry
Ring Announcer: Gary Michael Capetta
Interviews: Bill Apter

1) 6-Man: The Midnight Express w/ Jim Cornette vs. The Killer Bees & Hawk w/ Animal

The Midnight Express garnered MAJOR heat on their entrance. Cornette looked like he might fear for his life on his way to the ring, but once there he taunted fans and grabbed a mic to introduce his boys and rundown the tag champs! Then the Road Warriors music hit and the crowd went insane! The Killer Bees came out wearing face-paint too! Yellow and black stripes down their faces. If only a one-time deal, it got them over big time with the Asheville crowd as the faces worked the crowd and made their way to the ring. Cornette and the Express were shouting insults at their opponents over the mic! The Bees and Hawk finally had enough and jumped into the ring! A huge brawl started, but luckily it was broken up somewhat quickly as the ref called for the bell and Brunzell took it to Condrey! The Midnights were so impressive. They cut the ring off and utilized tags whenever they were in trouble. Early on they isolated Brunzell and all three worked him over until he finally made the hot tag to Blair! They went to work and even hit the BEE STING on Condrey, but he kicked out. The finish saw the action spill outside. The legal men were Brunzell and Lane. Cornette tossed Lane the racket and he clocked Jumpin Jim! The ref called for the DQ, but soon it didn’t matter, as all hell broke loose! It ended when Hawk and Animal cleared house. They climbed the turnbuckles and pounded their chests as the heels retreated. Blair helped Brunzell to his feet on the outside and this one is in the books. CONDREY = 4

Winners: The Killer Bees & Hawk by DQ (Lane on Brunzell) in 10’43” ***

APTER: Buddy Rogers
Rogers immediately started running Bobo Brazil down and arguing with Apter over who was more popular and deserving of not only the fans but of title opportunities! Finally he went too far and Brazil ran out. Rather than engage him, though, Rogers took off as the fans cheered Brazil.

2) Singles: Masked Superstar vs. Rikidozan

This was an interesting matchup. Neither competitior was able to get an edge early on as the went back and forth, but then it was all Superstar for a while, even applying the COBRA HOLD at one point. Then Rikidozan made a huge comeback trying multiple pin attempts and submissions, but to no avail. Heenan would interfere and Superstar made a huge comeback, but then when the action spilled outside Rikidozan went nuts and pummeled Superstar mercilessly! Back inside he continued his assault and bloodied the masked man’s chest with brutal chops! He attacked Masked Superstar with a vengeance and got him finally with a HIPLOCK! RIKIDOZAN= 2, MASKED SUPERSTAR= 10!

Winner: Rikidozan by pinfall in 9’24” ***1/2

3) Tag Team: Orton Boys vs. Inoki & Baba

Inoki and Cowboy Bob started this one off. It was one hell of a tag match! The Orton Boys looked strong in this one. They utilized all their skills individually and as a team to wear down their opponents. Still, Inoki and Baba fought valiantly, even coming close to a pin on one occasion, while evading multiple pin attempts themselves. In the end, though, Orton Sr.’s PILEDRIVER was too much for Inoki! BABA= 4, INOKI= 5, ORTON SR.= 4

Winner: The Orton Boys by pinfall (Bob Orton Sr. over Antonio Inoki) in 19’34” ***1/2


APTER: NWA US Champ Don Muraco
Muraco and Albano made it clear, The Crusher doesn’t stand a chance at Starrcade! Muraco is the undisputed US Champ and he’ll stay that way! And after Starrcade the Crusher will be nothing more than another contender. As it stands, right now, he’s just a pretender to the throne.

4) Singles: Koko B. Ware vs Jim Londos

This was a really good match. Some chain wrestling, lots of matwork and some flourishes here and there, especially from Ware. It went back and forth the whole time, really with nary a pin attempt. Londos did hit the AIRPLANE SPIN early, but Koko kicked out. Then a while later while the Birdman was on offense he would get a nearfall after a flying headbutt. In the end, though, Londos mounted a comeback and hit another AIRPLANE SPIN for the 1,2,3.

Winner: Jim Londos by infall in 13’31”

5) Tag Team: The Fabulous Kangaroos vs. Bruiser Brody & Jimmy Snuka

Wild “Red” Berry assured Gordon Solie and Bill Apter that Costello was fine, in spite of the piledriver from Snuka that caused the CO last week. He also said that there was no fear in his camp about these wild men who barely pass for wrestlers. Brody and Heffernan started off the action. Both teams looked great in this action packed bout. They certainly played to their strengths. The Kangaroos utilized lots of quick tags and hi impact agile offense mixed with mat based attacks. Brody used brawling to give his team an edge early on, but once he tagged out to Snuka he never got back in legally. Red Berry interfered a couple of times to give his team an advantage, but Snuka kept battling back at one point attempty the Superfly Leap only to miss it. At this point Costello went up immediately after and missed his own leap from the top! Snuka hit him with a powerslam and he rolled outside! That’s when chaos broke out and a brawl erupted. Snuka took too many liberties and the referee had no choice but to DQ him. SNUKA= 6, HEFFERNAN= 4

Winner: The Fabulous Kangaroos by DQ (Snuka on Costello, out of the ring) in 11’22” ***1/2

6) Singles: Jimmy Valiant vs. SD Jones

This was a good hard fought contest, if fairly standard. They fought back and forth for almost the whole match. At one point, Jones looked great but was only able to go for a pin once and to no avail. Valiant came back towards the end and recovered first from a double clothesline. Soon after that he hit the SUPER ELBOW and got the win! VALIANT= 4

Winner: Jimmy Valiant by pinfall in 9’25” ***

APTER: Bobby Heenan presents Rick Rude & King Kong Bundy
Heenan introduces King Kong Bundy to the audience. They all know Rick Rude, They all know what a fine specimen he is. But now, feast your eyes on the biggest, meanest, the ugliest man to step into the ring, King Kong Bundy. Together, they’re like Beauty and the Beast and they’re going to wreak havoc until they get what’s theirs, the NWA World Tag Team Championship! Apter starts to ask a few questions about contracts in the Heenan Family and where Masked Superstar now fits in. Heenan takes offense and Bundy starts in on Apter! Just then, Bullet Bob and Brad Armstrong come out to make the save on Apter! Before a brawl can erupt Heenan corrals his men to the ring and the Armstongs follow! A ref is called in and we’ve got a match!




7) Tag Match: Rick Rude & King Kong Bundy w/ Bobby Heenan vs. Bullet Bob & Brad Armstrong

Bob and Rude started this one off. And as soon as it began, it was over! Rude hit him with a dropkick and then as Bob got up, Rude ht him with the RUDE AWAKENING and got the 1,2,3 for a squash victory! Heenan laughed and bragged to the camera about his new team and told the whole division to watch out!

Winners: Rick Rude & King Kong Bundy by pinfall (Rude over Bob Armstong) in 30” *

8) Singles: Steve Williams vs. Red Bastien w/ Billy Lyons

Ted DiBiase came out on color commentary for this one saying that it was payback time for his bodyguard and friend, Dr. Death. Last week was a fluke and all this talk of his intestinal fortitude will be met in the ring! Wow! Dr. Death destroyed Red Bastien and left absolutely no doubts as to just how devastating he is. Football tackles, lariats, Doctor Bombs, suplexes, you name it, Bastien got hit with it! Eventually, Bastien was busted open by a vicious headbutt. Wlliams even went to the top a few times and finally it was one of these efforts that put the bloody Bastien away for the pin! BASTIEN= 8, WILLIAMS= 3

Winner: Dr. Death Steve Williams by pinfall in 11'17” ***

9) Choice: Nick Bockwinkel & Ray Stevens (S/ch) w/ Bobby Heenan vs. Frank Gotch (W/ch) & Danny Hodge (inj)

Bockwinkel and the NWA Southern States Champion, Ray Stevens were led to the ring by manager Bobby “the Brain” Heenan to heavy boos and name-calling. Then the World champ, Frank Gotch and Danny Hodge made their way out to a great ovation. Hodge’s ribs were heavily taped and he was limping slightly, but the look on his face was pure business, nothing was going to slow him down. Gotch and Stevens got this one off to a start. What a match! All four men went back and forth and told one hell of a story! It was an amazing athletic contest with lots of “wrestling”! Holds were used, limbs were stretched, moves were landed, reversals, and chain grappling as well. Gotch was strong early on and took it to both Stevens and Bockwinkel. Hodge struggled due to his injury, but still came off looking like a champ as well, stretching both Bock and the Crippler! The heels worked more effectively as a tag team, though and were able to bring it to both Gotch and Hodge. They definitely took advantage of Hodge’s injury, but he came back on Stevens late in the match and Stevens scrambled to make a tag first chance he got. Hodge handled Bockwinkel too, though! Eventually he made a tag and he and Gotch hit a double neckbreaker! Then Gotch put his TOEHOLD on! Stevens and Heenan tried to save Bockwinkel, but Gotch had it cinched in and Hodge came flying over to keep them out of it! The ref watched as Bock screamed in pain and finally tapped out to the World’s champion! HODGE= 6 (he was plus 1 going into it), GOTCH= 3, BOCKWINKEL= 5

Winners: Frank Gotch & Danny Hodge by submission (Gotch over Bockwinkel) in 23’01”

After the match, though Stevens, with Heenan’s help was able to take care of the injured Hodge. He stormed into the ring and attacked Gotch as Bockwinkel used the ropes to get to his feet. He and Heenan then orchestrated a vicious attack as Stevens went up and hit the BOMBS AWAY not onve, not twice, but three times! Gotch was HURT! He’ll be injured four fight cards! What does this mean for the title match at Starrtcade?


POST-SHOW NOTES:

- The Midnight Express and the Road Warriors are headed for a collision! At Starrcade for the NWA World Tag Team Championship, four men will meet. Cornette has decided it will be Eaton and Lane after all, though there’s no doubt he and Condrey will be close by. Ellering and the Road Warriors aren’t sweating it at all. The intend on entering and exiting Starrcade as champions.
- Buddy Rogers and Bobo Brazil will meet in singles action as well. This match could have title implications in the future in addition to the bad blood involved!
- The Crusher will finally get his hands on Muraco as he gets his US title shot coming at Starrcade! Muraco and Albano don’t seem too worried, but there’s no doubt they’ll have their hands full with the Crusher!
- Wild Red Berry and the Fabulous Kangaroos may have bitten off more than they can chew! Snuka and Brody not satisfied with countouts and DQs tossed a challenge out to the Kangaroos for a no DQ, no CO match at Starrcade… And they agreed!
- The Killer Bees have decided to meet the challenge of Heenan’s new team and will be taking on Rude and Bundy. A match that, especially if Heenan has his way, will have implications on the tag title scene.
- The World champ is injured and put on the shelf for four cards… Heenan is screaming at the NWA to strip Gotch of the title and award it to the number on contender, Bockwinkel! An injured Gotch has sent word that intends on competing at Starrcade, no matter what! The NWA board is deliberating on whether or not it will still be a title match because of the injured champion. Word is that it will be, but should Gotch lose, he’ll be given an extension on his automatic rematch clause (from 30 to 90 days).

[Sam Fain]

Here's the card for the inaugural Starrcade! I've also listed some notes detailing where some of these matches are coming from and where they might be leading. This is the BIG one for my fed, its coming early on, but there have been enough angles going into it to warrant the supercard.

LOW Card #5 STARRCADE I
Charlotte Coliseum, Charlotte, NC

1) Singles: Bob Armstrong vs. Dennis Condrey
This one will be an interesting matchup to open the show. Cornette has decided that while Condrey will be the Midnight's alternate that he'll be going for singles gold as well, namely the Southern States title. Meanwhile, Bob Armstrong is also looking into getting a Southern States shot and there's rumors flying about Bob and Brad maybe seeking some matches with the Midnight Express!

2) 6-Man Tag: The Million Dollar Corp. vs. The Flying Readheads & a mystery partner
Coming off the recent matches involving these two factions this 6-man tag bout has been signed. DiBiase has announced the newest member of the faction is none other than Curt Hennig! Billy Red Lyons has responded by saying he'll bring someone special to even the odds!

3) NWA Southern States Title: Ray Stevens © w/ Bobby Heenan vs. Danny Hodge (inj)
Danny Hodge, ignoring doctor's orders, will take on the Southern States champ and the Heenan family (of course). There's lots of bad blood going into this one and the Heenan Family has been brutalizing Hodge and Gotch recently, will this be revenge for Hodge or will Stevens take advantage of the injury?

4) Tag Match: Rick Rude & King Kong Bundy w/ Bobby Heenan vs. The Killer Bees
Heenan's new tag team sees action taking on the ever popular Killer Bees. This one could be a very interesting bout. Will it be a stepping stone? And for which team?

5) Singles: Giant Baba vs. Johnny Valentine
This one could be a classic. Baba and Valentine both have their sights on the main event in the NWA. The winner might have a legitimate claim on a title shot or at least getting higher up on the list of contenders.

6) Triple Threat Match: Masked Superstar vs. Yukon Eric vs. Ox Baker
The NWA board of directors has ordered this last minute bout to determine a number one contender to the US title! Heenan lobbied hard for his man, the Masked Superstar to be included. Fans are excited over Yujkon Eric's inclusion in the match! And everyone is talking about Ox Baker. He's brutalized men all over the world and now has an opportunity to lay claim to a US title shot!

7) Singles: Harley Race vs. Mil Mascaras
Race wants a World title shot, pure and simple. But first he'll have to go through Mil Mascaras. Mascaras returns after a few shows back in Mexico. Which man will emerge with the title shot?

8) Tag Match: Bruiser Brody & Jimmy Snuka vs. Fabulous Kangaroos w/ Red Berry (NO CO, NO DQ)
These men's contrasting styles have produced some wild, action packed matches that the fans have gobbled up! This one will be wild as a definite feud is on. The winner could easily challenge for tag team gold!

9) Singles: Bobo Brazil vs. Buddy Rogers -Texas Death Match-
These two want blood from one another, there's no way around it. And they might draw it! This is a Texas Death Match and not only will it ignite this feud into a pyre, but it could have world title implications too!

10) NWA US Ttile: The Crusher vs. Don Muraco © w/ Lou Albano
Fans have been waiting for this rematch! The Crusher doesn't just want to be champion, he wants to put an end to Albano and Muraco's bragging and degrading comments. The beer keg lifting everyman is the people's champ already, will he be able to cement that with a title win?

11) NWA World Tag Team Title: The Midnight Express w/ Jim Cornette vs. The Road Warriors © w/ Paul Ellering
This feud isn't just about belts... These men hate each other. The Road Warriors have promised... There will be blood! This may be the most anticipated match of the card.

12) NWA World Title: Nick Bockwinkel w/ Bobby Heenan vs. Frank Gotch (inj)©
The main event! Gotch was savagely injured at the hands of Ray Stevens, Bock, and Heenan, but will not deny the fans of a title match at the most prestigious event of the year! This one will be a grueling bout for the injured champ, but the fans are in his corner. Regardless of the outcome the champ is an inspiration.

[Sam Fain]

LOW Card #5 STARRCADE I
Charlotte Coliseum, Charlotte, NC
Play-By-Play: Gordon Solie
Color/Guest: “Wild” Red Berry
Ring Announcer: Gary Michael Capetta
Interviews: Bill Apter

1) Singles: Bob Armstrong vs. Dennis Condrey – 1 Fall, 20 min. Time Limit-

This opening bout saw Bob Armstrong get off to a strong start! He slapped on a figure four early and if not for Cornette’s interference would have had the early submission win! Condrey was ble to come back after rolling outside and he never looked back. Armstrong ended up being busted open outside and Condrey rolled him in and put him away with a second FACE FIRST LEG SWEEP. CONDREY= 4, ARMSTRONG= 6.

Winner: Dennis Condrey by pinfall in 4’02” **1/2

2) 6-Man Tag: The Million Dollar Corp. vs. The Flying Readheads & a mystery partner -1 Fall, 30 min Time Limit-

The Million Dollar Corp came to the ring with all the arrogance you would expect from Hennig and DiBiase and Williams was nothing but intensity! These three could give the Heenan Family a run as a dominant heel force in the NWA. The Flying Redheads came through the curtain to a nice pop and Lyons grabbed a mic to introduce their mystery partner… His former tag team partner and all around badass the Destroyer! The fans and the Million Dollar Corp were in shock and we have one hell of a match as Hennig and Lyons started the action off. The action was back and forth early on with Lyons and Hennig trading blows for a while. Lyons then tagged in the Destroyer and he went to work, but DiBiase came in after a much needed tag and shifted the momentum to his team. Some amazing double team work with Williams almost led to the pin, but the Destroyer wasn’t done, yet. Still Williams’ lariats proved too much and between some brawling and power, Dr. Death filled his enforcer roll well and got a pin on the Destroyer! What a win! DiBiase’s stable is strong! DESTROYER= 5.

Winners: The Million Dollar Corp by pinfall (Williams over the Destroyer) in 7’12” **1/2

3) NWA Southern States Title: Ray Stevens © w/ Bobby Heenan vs. Danny Hodge (inj) -1 Fall, 30 min Time Limit-

The action started out fast with Stevens on the offensive, but Hodge battled back and took over, nearly scoring a pinfall with the OKLAHOMA SIDEROLL! Heenan’s presence was definitely felt as he did his best to distract the ref whenever his man was in trouble. The finish saw Stevens flipped out of the ring after a beautiful dropkick by Hodge. Then outside Heenan distracted Hodge long enough for Stevens to grab his title and smash Hodge over the head with it! The ref saw the whole thing, though and called for the DQ, meaning Stevens keeps the belt, of course! STEVENS= 4

Winner: Danny Hodge by DQ in 4’32” **

4) Tag Match: Rick Rude & King Kong Bundy w/ Bobby Heenan vs. The Killer Bees –1 Fall, 20 min Time Limit-
What an incredible tag match! Both teams proved why they are in this division and why they could be a threat to any team. Excellent tag work from both and they played to their strengths. The Bees frequently tagging out on offense and making needed tags on defense. Their agility gave them an early edge and they had Rude in trouble a few times. But Bundy and the Ravishing One would not be put away easily, both men coming back and using tag work and double team maneuvers to keep the Bees off balance. They also used some dirty tactics in the ring, especially Bundy, to work over both Brunzell and Blair. Heenan was also able to prvide distractions once again for his boys. After an incredibly hard fought bout that almost went the distance and saw Rude escape multiple pin and submission attempts and also saw Brunzell break up the nearfall after a Bundy avalanche, Bundy dropped an elbow off the ropes on Blair and was able to get the 1, 2, 3! RUDE= 6, BRUNZELL= 4, BLAIR= 6

Winners: Rude & Bundy by pinfall (Bundy over Blair) in 19’34” ****

5) Singles: Giant Baba vs. Johnny Valentine –1 Fall, 20 min Time Limit-

This one was a furious bout. Baba was over with the fans and Valentine garnered a mix of support and boos. They mixed it up back and forth with Baba having an early advantage, but it swung back and forth as these men used big, hi-impact moves almost exclusively, battling see-saw like for the entirety of this short, but intense bout. It came to an end outside the ring as the ref may have been a bit too vigilant and DQd Baba for taking to many liberties! The fans were shocked as this one came to a rather inconclusive finish.

Winner: Johnny Valentine by DQ in 5’00” **

6) Triple Threat Match: Masked Superstar vs. Yukon Eric vs. Ox Baker –1 Fall, 30 min Time Limit-

This one was going to be a crazy match! All three brawled at the start of the bell and It went back and forth for a while until Baker and Yukon double clotheslined Superstar out of he ring! Baker took it to Eric for a while, but then Eric battled back in a big way! He eventually slapped on the KODIAK KRUNCH and Baker, shocking everyone, including Heenan and Superstar as they tried to break it up, by tapping out! Heenan and Superstar were furious and attacked Eric after the match, but Yukon fought back and they brawled until separated!

Winner: Yukon Eric by submission on Ox Baker in 4’07” **

7) Singles: Harley Race vs. Mil Mascaras –1 Fall, 20 min Time Limit-

Race was determined from the get-go! He wants a title shot and he knows that road is only through Mascaras! Mascaras took it to Race early on playing to his strengths bigtime. He wrestled Race well, but Harley gained some steam as they exchanged reversals and then it was all Race! He came back in a big way and used his hi-impact offense to wear down Mascaras quickly and eventually get the pin after a PILEDRIVER! MASACRAS= 2

Winner: Harley Race by pinfall in 6’24” ***

8) Tag Match: Bruiser Brody & Jimmy Snuka vs. Fabulous Kangaroos w/ Red Berry (NO CO, NO DQ) –1 Fall, 30 min Time Limit-
This one was going to be wild! Brody and Snuka got a big pop as they wildly made their way to the ring. The Kangaroos got nothing but hate as Red Berry made disparaging comments to the audience and the opponents! Costello and Snuka began the action. This one was the shocker of the night! The Kangaroos used devastating tag work to destroy Brody’s left leg! They would not let up and in the end Heffernan used his STEP OVER TOEHOLD to force a hurt Brody to tap!!! BRODY= 5

Winners: The Kangaroos by submission (Heffernan over Brody) in 3’47” **

9) Singles: Bobo Brazil vs. Buddy Rogers -Texas Death Match-

What a match! It started off and stayed fairly civil as they jockeyed for position early on. Rogers eventually got the advantage and pressed it. Even going for a pinfall, but Brazil battled back. Again it went back and forth for a while and then it got messy! They brawled outside the ring all over the arean! Eventually they took it outside the very arena itself! Rogers went to smash Brazil into a car windshield, but Brazil reversed and smashed Rogers! Not once, but twice! Rogers was a bloody mess! They continued to brawl through the arena making their way back to the ring. Incredibly, Rogers made a comeback! They battled over lead pipe at ringside and Rogers clobbered Brazil with it! Both men were bloody messes as they finally took it back inside. Still they brawled, still they fought back and forth! Another pipe shot from Brazil, though led to two devastating COCO BUTTS on the bloody Rogers and Brazil got a huge decisive win! What a bloodbath! BRAZIL= 4, ROGERS= 7

Winner: Bobo Brazil by pinfall in 14’27” ****
10) NWA US Ttile: The Crusher vs. Don Muraco © w/ Lou Albano –1 Fall, 30 min Time Limit-

The Crusher had huge fan support in this one and he was going to need it as Muraco was jacked and Albano intended on his man keeping the strap. This one was a brawl, mainly. inside the ring and outside the ring. They pummeled each other with their powerful offense, but neither man had the upper hand for long, though it was pretty hi-impace for the wole bout. Muraco had just enough of an edge and it carried him to the finish as he used the HAWAIIAN HAMMER to put the bloody Crusher away. MURACO= 4, CRUSHER= 5

Winner: Don Muraco by pinfall in 9’13” ***

11) NWA World Tag Team Title: The Midnight Express w/ Jim Cornette vs. The Road Warriors © w/ Paul Ellering -1 Fall, 60 min Time Limit-

The Midnight Express endured over 20 minutes of brutality at the hands of the seemingly invincible tag team champions! Though both teams used some good tag work it was pretty much all the Road Warriors! They dominated Lane and Eaton with their power. It was also a bloody affair as Eaton was busted open and Lane was just a mess! Quick tags and double team moves epitomized what Hawk and Animal were able to do in there. They proved in spite of Cornette’s interference and in spite of the defensive tag work of the challengers that they were the better team! Finally a double clothesline on a crimson masked Lane got Animal the 1, 2,3! LANE= 8, EATON= 6, HAWK= 4

Winners: The Road Warriors by pin fall (Animal over Lane) in 22’41” ****
12) NWA World Title: Nick Bockwinkel w/ Bobby Heenan vs. Frank Gotch © -1 Fall, 60 min Time Limit-

What a match! Classic old school action! Gotch really gutted it out in spite of his injuries to the back and ribs. Both men went for early pins and there were tons of reversals and chain moments. It was a huge back and forth affair, but Gotch settled into a nice flow and started to take it to Bockwinkel with a mix of mat wrestling and throws. It was reminiscent of an All Japan Triple Crown match with the flow going back and forth with mat wrestling, suplexes, irish whips, turnbuckle throws, and back again. These men told one hell of a story, battling back and forth, neither man backing down and taking everything the other had. It really could’ve gone either way. So evenly matched. The action had the fans on the edge of their seat and the finishing stretch was breathless as both men, tired and hurt reversed hold after hold until they hit double clotheslines out of the corners! Both men were down! Heenan screamed to Bockwinkel and he made it to his feet first! He went up top and came off with a gorgeous cross body, but Gotch rolled through! 1,2… NO!!! Bockwinkel gets the shoulder up! Gotch is hurt, still! Reversals, Gotch with the upper hand, though… NO! Back suplex by Bockwinkel! He bridges! 1,2,3!!!! NEW CHAMP!!! The crowd is shocked! Gotch is still down! Heenan runs in and grabs he belt! He raises Bock’s hand and the belt as the fans boo! But what an effort! What a bout! GOTCH= 5, BOCKWINKEL= 4

Winner and NEW NWA World Heavyweight Champion: Nick Bockwinkel by pinfall in 20’37” *****