AWA 1989: A Financial Savior Is (Badly) Needed

[the autumn wind]

NOVEMBER 1989

AWA HQ - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

AWA chief Verne Gagne was sitting at his desk awaiting a call.

He was nervous.

After waiting what seemed like an eternity, Gagne's secretary buzzed the intercom.

Secretary: Ron DeSantis of Tribune Media on line one.

Verne picked up the phone.

Verne: Hello, Ron.

Ron: Hello, Verne.

Well, I'm calling to see where we stand right now.

Verne: As you know, it's between you guys at Tribune and Team Blondie, as I like to call them.

That's as much as I can say right now because that's where we stand.

Ron: Verne, I've been told by my bosses to sweeten the pot.

Verne: How sweet are you gonna make it?

Ron: Remember when I told you that we'd pay you $30 grand a month for the rightS to carry your current ESPN show on WGN instead?

Verne: Yes.

Ron: Well, Tribune has decided to raise the offer to $36,000 a month.

Verne: OK. Hold on a second.

Verne quickly did the math.

Verne: That's $432,000 dollars.

Ron: Correct.

Plus, there's one more thing.

Verne: Hit me with it.

Ron: It's about your son, Greg.

We know that Greg's active full-time wrestling career is drawing to a close.

What we'd like to do is work with you running the AWA and also wrestling part-time.

Verne: I'm sure Greg would be amenable to that.

Ron: We'd pay him, guaranteed, $120,000 per year for three years, plus money for wrestling on TV and arena shows and any potential bonuses.

Verne: So the money for wrestling would be on top of the $120?

Ron: Correct.

Verne: Wow!

He'd listen to that offer. Haha. Believe me. Greg would take notice.

And possible bonuses?!

Ron: Yes, sir.

Verne, we want the AWA, an upper midwest staple for decades, to become part of the Tribune Media family.

WGN is a natural fit for AWA programming since Chicago has historically been AWA country.

Verne: You make a good pitch, Ron.

I just have to set up one more meeting with Team Blondie and then I'll get back to you with my answer.

Ron: OK, Verne.

I anxiously await your decision.

Verne: Talk to you, soon.

Ron: Bye, Verne.

Verne hung up the phone.

Tribune Media just gave Verne an offer that might be too good to refuse.

The end was near.

STAY TUNED...

 

[the autumn wind]

NOVEMEBER 1989


JIM CROCKETT'S HOME - CHARLOTTE, NC


Jim Crockett had gotten word from an anonymous insider at Tribune Media that Tribune upped the offer to buy the AWA from Verne Gagne.


Jim placed a call to Bill Watts.


After two rings...

​

Bill: Hello.


Jim: Bill, this is Jim Crockett.


Bill: Hey, Jim!


What can I do for you?


Jim: I just received a call from someone I know who works for Tribune Media.


Bill: You would not be calling me if this was good news. What did he say?


Jim: He said Tribune Media jacked upped their offer to Verne.


Bill: S-hit! Did he give a dollar amount?


Jim: Tribune initially offered Verne $360,000 a year for the rights to air and produce his main cable program for WGN.


They've now upped that offer to $36 grand a month, or $432,000 for the year.


Bill Whistled.


Jim: And they've made an offer to bring Greg on board to work with Verne for $120,000 per year for three years. Plus, they'd have Greg wrestle part-time and pay him for his ring work on top of the $120 grand he'll get guaranteed.


I did the math. When you include the $2.5 million dollar offer for the company, the $1.2 million dollar offer to Verne to run the AWA the next three years, the TV deal and the offer for Greg, it comes out to around $4.5 million.


Bill: No way in hell we could match that. Verne would be crazy not to take the deal.


Jim: We sure can't match the money offer. The only thing we can do is up our offer some and try and get Verne to see the only way the AWA will 100% stay a wrestling company is if he sells to us.


Bill: I know Verne's not too crazy about the whole corporate thing, so we would have to try and convince him to sour on that idea.


Jim: I've come up with an idea. We up our offer by $300,000.


I'm gonna call someone I think might be interested in buying in.


Bill: Who?


Jim: Jerry. Jerry Jarrett.


Bill: I wouldn't bank on that cheap-ass bastard ponying up $300,000.


Jarrett's payouts were so low you could slide the payout envelope with the money in it under an ant's belly with room to spare.


Jim: Haha!


I agree. He won't go in for $300. But he might go for $100 to $150.


The rest of it would be spread between you, Deborah, John and myself.


Bill (sighed): Well, give it a shot.


I can't believe Tribune would offer that much for a promotion that's on life-support.


Jim: They are, Bill. They are.


Listen, I'll call Jerry and see if he's interested. After I talk with him, I'll call John and let him know the situation.


Bill: You do that. Personally, I don't think it's worth $2 million. But, we want to get back in the game and an established name is the way to go rather than entering on the ground floor in my opinion.


Jim: I'll give Jarrett a call and get back to you.


Bill: This is it for me, Jim. I won't go a dollar higher.


Jim: I'm with you, Bill.


Talk with you soon.


Bill: OK. Bye, Jim.


Time to call Mr. Jarrett.


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


JERRY JARRETT'S HOME - MEMPHIS, TN


Jerry Jarrett was sitting in his recliner reading a book when the phone rang.


After one ring...


Jerry: Jerry Jarrett.


Jim: Jerry, this is Jim Crockett.


Jerry: This is a pleasant surprise. Heard through the grapevine that you are trying to buy the AWA with Watts.


Jim: Well, Watts and singer Deborah Harry and director John Waters.


Jerry: You serious? The lead singer of Blondie wants in the game?


Jim: Sure am.


Jerry: What are guys offering if I can ask?


Jim: We're about to offer Verne $3.5 million.


Jerry (stunned): $3.5 million?! You can't be serious?! The AWA's nothing but a fire sale waiting to happen, Jim! Good lord!


Jim: When Vince McMahon entered the fray, it drove the price up considerably. The good news is that Vince is out of the picture now.


Jerry: What did he offer?


Jim: $3.5 million.


Jerry: Why are you offering the same price if he's out? Doesn't make any sense.


Jim: Unfortunately, Tribune Media has also entered the picture and is offering Verne over $4 million.


Jerry: Tribune Media. Don't they own a bunch of papers and the Cubs?


Jim: That's them.


Jerry: I say let 'em have it. $4 million for something that might be worth a million or so at most.


You have no chance of turning that thing around, Jim. I'm serious as a heart attack after being sat on by Shirley Hemphill.


Give it a year, maybe two, and Tribune will have a severe case of buyer's remorse.


The business is in a bit of a downward cycle right now.


Don't be foolish and burn through your money like that.


Jim: Right now, our offer sits at $3.2 million. We think if we can get it up a bit and promise to keep the AWA a more traditional wrestling promotion then we can ultimately compete with the WWF as the true alternative.


Jerry: And you want me to chip in $300 grand? No way, mister. Not gonna happen.


Better off taking that money and burning it in a burn barrel. It's the same damn result.


Jim: We're not asking for the whole $300 from you, Jerry.


We were hoping you might come in and help defray the cost.


Hey! What about Lawler?


Jerry: I can tell you that Jerry Lawler wouldn't go in on the deal even if he only had to pony up a f-uckin' dollar. He knows a losing proposition when he sees it.


Jim: So, I guess that's a no?


Jerry: It's a no, Jim. I'm sorry.


Jim: Just think about it, Jerry. All business ventures are a risk. They hold no guarantees.


Jerry hemmed and hawed for a moment.


Jerry: Tell you what. I'll think about it. But don't hold your breath.


Jim: OK, Jerry. Just don't leave us twisting in the wind.


Jerry: I'll get back to you real soon. As in 24-48 hours soon.


Jim: Talk to you then, Jerry.


Jerry: Alright, Jim. Bye.


Jim: Take care.


The wild ride was coming to an end. But who knows how many more twists and turns are left before reaching the final destination?


STAY TUNED…

 

[the autumn wind]

NOVEMBER 1989

JIM CROCKETT'S HOME - CHARLOTTE, NC

It was 6am, the morning after Crockett's call to Jerry Jarrett when the phone rang.

After the third ring...

Jim (tired voice): Hello.

Jerry: Jim?

Jim: Jerry. It's what, 6 in the morning? I'm still sleeping.

Jerry: It is 6am.

Sorry for calling so early. I've got an answer for you.

Jim: Give it to me.

Jerry: I'll buy in for 3% of the company. That's $105,000 dollars.

Jim: Great. I'll call Bill and John later today and...

Jerry: But there's a catch to it.

Jim: What is it?

Jerry: I want some of my wrestlers to occasionally appear on AWA programming and houses and some AWA wrestlers to appear on Memphis programming.

Jim: How do you want them used on AWA shows?

Jerry: Well, I'd like them to appear on AWA shows in squashes and also occasionally in some TV mains against AWA wrestlers. I would also like Memphis wrestlers to appear on AWA shows and fight each other. It's good exposure for us.

Jim: Geez, Jerry. I don't know about putting them in TV mains against AWA guys. I'd have to talk to Bill about that.

Jerry: So, Watts is the booker?

Jim: If we buy he will be.

Jerry: Well, talk to him about it.

Jim: Is it a deal breaker if we don't showcase them in TV mains.

Jerry: Look, I'm just asking for it to happen on occasion. We'll put the AWA guys over. Unless you want to create a TV-only angle that could lead to multiple inter-promotional matches.

Jim: Let me talk to Bill about it.

Anything else?

Jerry: I'd want a booking fee for my wrestlers appearing on your shows.

Jim: How much we looking at?

Jerry: We can talk money later.

Jim: Would Lawler be interested in working cross-promotion with another AWA star.

Jerry: If the price is right, of course.

Jim: Let me call Bill and see what he'd want to do.

Jerry: Do that, Jim. See what he's open to.

Jim: OK, Jerry. Bye.

Jerry: Talk with you soon.

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

Later that day...

Jim Crockett picked up the phone and called Bill Watts.

After two rings.

Bill (in a deep Barry White-like voice): Hellooooo, b-itch.

Jim: Uh, Bill. This is Jim Crockett.

Bill (startled): Oh, Jim! Haha! Sorry. Was expecting a call from a certain female.

Jim: Hahaha! That's good to know. Hoping I wasn't your b-itch.

Bill: Nah! You're just a son of a b-itch.

The pair shared a good laugh.

Jim: She must be into some really kinky stuff if you call her b-itch when answering the phone.

Bill (now annoyed): Yeah yeah. What are you calling about?

Jim: Jerry Jarrett wants in.

Jim: He's offered to buy 3% of the company. It's $105,000.

Bill: OK. That means the remaining $200 grand will be covered by the four of us. $50 grand each.

Jim: Plus, he wants some of his wrestlers to appear on AWA TVs and some of the houses on an occasional basis.

Bill: I'm in. He can control the booking for them and how they're presented unless there's a crossover angle and match somewhere down the line. Then I'd be in charge of that.

Jim: He also wants some of our guys to appear on Memphis TV.

Bill: Sounds good. We can hash out details later if the sale happens.

Jim: He also wants a booking fee for his wrestlers appearing on our programs.

Bill: Only if it's within reason. We'll want a fee for our wrestlers appearing on Memphis TV, too.

Knowing Jarrett, he'll pocket the entire fee and pay his boys jacks-hit. It's the Jarrett way.

Jim: Haha!

OK. I'll call John Waters and let him know what's going on.

Bill: Keep me updated.

Jim: I will, Bill.

Bill: Take care.

Jim: Goodbye...b-itch.

Bill: Go away, Jim.

The pair laughed as the call ended.

Jerry Jarrett was on board.

Now to convince John and Deb.

STAY TUNED...

 

[the autumn wind]

NOVEMBER 1989

Jim Crockett had contacted Deborah Harry and John Waters and let them know about Jerry Jarrett being interested in purchasing a small percentage of the company and using some of Jarrett's Memphis wrestlers on AWA TV on occasion. Crockett also said that he was looking to up the offer to Verne to $3.5 million because of the huge offer Tribune put on the table.

Harry and Waters were fine with the decision and both said they trusted the acumen of the wrestling guys in handling this situation.

The new financial split/ownership slice was now as follows: Deborah Harry 30%; John Waters 30%; Jim Crockett 18.5%; Bill Watts 18.5 %; Jerry Jarrett 3 %.

VERNE GAGNE'S HOME - LAKE MINNETONKA, MN

Verne Gagne was sitting in his home office doing some reading when the phone rang. Verne's wife, Mary, picked up.

Verne heard Mary coming down the hall.

Mary: Verne, Ron DeSantis is on the phone.

Verne picked up the phone in his office.

Verne: Hello, Ron.

Ron: Hi, Verne. How are you today?

Verne: Good, Good. Yourself?

Ron: Can't complain.

Verne: What can I do for you?

Ron: Well, there was a misunderstanding on my part about part of the offer Tribune Media was making to you.

Verne sat back in his chair.

Verne: What is it?

Ron: The contracts that Tribune wants to tender to you and your son are three-year deals, but only the first year is guaranteed.

We would re-visit the contracts each of the next two years to see where Tribune wanted to go from there.

Verne: So, Greg and I could be released from our deals after the first year is up?

Ron: You could. Or, you could see a contract extension and/or pay raise.

Verne: Or pay cut.

Ron: That would also be on the table.

But, Verne, I just ask that you to please look at the totality of the deal.

This is still a fantastic deal for you. And there's a really good chance you and Greg will get extended for the entire three-year duration of the contracts.

Verne was despondent.

Verne: Give me a little time to think about it.

Ron: Okay, Verne.

I just felt it important to be up front with you about the matter. Did not want to drop any bombs on you.

Verne: Appreciate you letting me know, Ron.

Ron: Take care, Verne.

Verne: Bye, Ron.

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

Later that night...

Verne was sitting on the side of the bed when Mary walked out of the bathroom.

Mary came and sat down next to her husband.

Mary: Verne, you've hardly spoken this evening since that call with DeSantis. Please tell me what's bothering you?

Verne let out a sigh.

Verne: Ron DeSantis from Tribune Media called me today.

Mary: And?

Verne: He said that the contracts for Greg and I, while three years each, were only guaranteed for the first year. They would re-visit the contracts after each year we were there and make a decision on our future.

Mary: Maybe there's a message here, hon.

Verne: What is it?

Mary: Maybe it's a sign that it's time to slow down and step aside. You've given your life to this business non-stop since 1947. That's 42 years, Verne.

Maybe it's time to stop and smell the flowers.

Verne: I know. And you're probably right. But it's hard just to talk away.

I mean, if Tribune dropped Greg and I after one year that would cost us, combined, $1 million dollars in the deal.

Mary: Look, I've stuck with you this long in this crazy business. I'll support whatever you want to do.

Mary took Verne's hand and held it gently in hers.

Mary: Either way you go, just make sure you're making a sound, reasonable decision.

Verne placed his arm around his wife's shoulder and the two sat there quietly.

The reality was that Verne was prepared, after what would have most likely been just a going-through-the-motions meeting with 'Team Blondie', to accept Tribune's offer.

Now, the winds were swirling again.

Everything was up in the air once more.

Which way does Verne turn?

STAY TUNED...​

 

[the autumn wind]

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO MY READERS!

Enjoy Buddy Landell vs. Terry Taylor for the National Title from Starrcade '85:




Also, don't forget to watch the Grey Cup next year! CFL's good football!

 

[the autumn wind]

Egg Bowl day!

 

[the autumn wind]

NOVEMBER 1989

AWA HQ - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

Verne Gagne was working in his office when his secretary buzzed him and let him know Jim Crockett was on line 1.

Verne picked up the horn.

Verne: Hey, Jim!

Jim: Hello, Verne.

I'm calling to see how things are going with Tribune Media and to see if we can set up a meeting again very soon to discuss a possible deal.

Verne: Well, Jim, short and sweet, I'm still talking with Tribune and yes, I would like to set up a meeting with the four of you again.

Jim: That sounds good. Deborh, John and Bill are looking forward to meeting with you again.

And I have one more bit of news for you.

Verne: What's that?

Jim: We've brought in a fifth potential buyer.

Verne: Who is it?

Jim: Jerry Jarrett.

Verne: OK.

Jim: With Jarrett on board we can up our offer. We'll let you know the amount when we meet.

Verne: St. Louis one more time?

Jim: I'm on board and I think the others will be, too.

Verne: Well, check with them and get back to me.

Jim: Can I ask how close you are to a deal one way or the other.

Verne: Very close no matter which way things go.

Jim: Just glad we're still in the running.

Verne: You're very much in it.

Jim: Talk with you soon, Verne.

Verne: OK. Bye, Jim.

The hour of decision was now very near.

Will it be Tribune Media or Team Blondie as the next AWA owners?

STAY TUNED...

 

[the autumn wind]

NOVEMBER 1989

AWA HQ - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

Verne Gagne had talked with Team Blondie (including Jerry Jarrett). All parties were in agreement to meet in three days in St. Louis at the Mayflower Hotel for lunch to further discuss a possible deal.

The thought of Verne trying to continue to run the show on his own had fallen by the wayside, replced by the harsh reality of pro wrestling economics.

But Verne had one thing to do before then...

Verne picked up the phone and dialed.

After two rings...

Secretary: Good afternon. Tribune Media. How may I direct your call?

Verne: Ron DeSantis, please.

Secretary: May I ask who is calling?

Verne: Verne Gagne.

Secretary: One moment.

Verne was very briefly put on hold.

Ron: Hey, Verne! Ready to do some business?

Verne: I am.

Ron: Great!

With that, the turning point conversation began between Tribune Media and Verne Gagne.

Was Verne going to accept their offer and make the St. Louis meeting moot?

Or would the meeting in the Lou be the deciding factor?

STAY TUNED...

 

[the autumn wind]

NOVEMBER 1989

VERNE GAGNE'S HOME ON LAKE MINNETONKA, MN

Greg Gagne had just arrived at the home of his parents and went upstairs to their bedroom where Verne was packing.

Greg: Dad, we've got to get moving. Got a plane to catch.

Verne: I'm packing. I'm packing.

Greg: What are you going to tell them when we get to St. Louis?

Verne: I'll just be blunt and tell them the truth.

Greg: Sure you want to handle it like that?

Verne: Why lead them on?

Greg: You've got a point. Just don't drop the news like a sledgehammer.

Verne: Makes you wonder why we're even making the trip. Could just as easily called them all.

Greg: Face-to-face is better. Just makes it more personal.

Verne: You're right.

Greg: Tribune drives a hard bargain.

Verne: That DeSantis guy is one hell of a salesman. He's great on the close.

Greg: Well, off to St. Louis to deliver the news.

Verne: Yep. Let's go, son.

Verne and Greg left the house, jumped in Greg's car and headed to the airport to catch a flight to St. Louis.

The long, winding journey would finally end in St. Louis.

STAY TUNED...

 

[the autumn wind]

NOVEMBER 1989

AL'S RESTAURANT - ST. LOUIS, MO​

Verne Gagne and son Greg and 'Team Blondie' had all arrived at Al's Restaurant, a famous steakhouse in St. Louis, for their 6pm dinner reservation. The group originally intended to meet for lunch but Jarrett wasn't arriving from Memphis until mid-afternoon so they pushed the meeting to a dinner instead.​

The group entered the restaurant and Verne Gagne slipped the host a $100 bill to get a table in the back corner so the group could discuss business without being disturbed.​

The group was seated at the table of their choice and had lively, casual conversation with each other.​

They dined on fresh salads, prime steaks, some also had lobster tails with drawn butter, baked or mashed potatoes, cooked vegetables and added a few adult beverages to the mix. For dessert: homemade cinnamon, spumoni or vanilla ice cream, chocolate fudge cake or bananas foster.​

The enjoyable conversation continued through dinner.​

When dinner was over and the plates had been cleared away, the group sat around sipping their beverages when Verne shifted the evening's tone.​

Verne: You ready to talk some business?​

The group agreed.​

Verne: What do you guys have as an offer?​

Jim Crockett spoke up.​

Jim: Yes. With Jerry Jarrett coming on board with our team, the offer is now $3.5 million.​

Verne: How much you in for, Jerry?​

Jerry: 3% of the company.​

Verne: I see two very capable bookers at this table.​

Bill: I would be the booker, Verne.​

Verne: How would you book the AWA, Bill?​

Bill: I would book the AWA much like I booked Mid-South. I would present an athletic, realistic style and would add a few more angles to the mix.​

Verne nodded in the affirmative.​

Verne: Blood?​

Bill (chuckled): Come on now, Verne. You know me. Blood when I feel it necessary for TV and at the houses.

Verne: John and Deborah, what is your top priority, besides making money, if you buy the AWA?

John Waters: Well, our goal is to give the fans a true alternative to the WWF. We want to present wrestling with wrestling fans in mind.

Deborah Harry: We think fans want a real choice. Competition is good.

Verne: Competition can help keep you sharp. No competition and lazy booking can set in.

Jim: With Bill as booker, lazy booking is the last thing you'll need to worry about.

Everyone shared a laugh.

Verne: Jerry, what are you gonna be doing to earn your 3%?

Jerry: I'm gonna be the silent partner.

Verne: You gonna take a front office job and move to Minneapolis?

Jerry: Hell will freeze over before that happens, my friend.

I'm not moving anywhere where it gets so cold my nuts can freeze and break off.

More laughter.

Verne: Jim, you're gonna be the promoter?

Jim: My job will simply be to make sure the trains run on time.

Verne: Do any of you think that you will compromise the wrestling part of the AWA for 'sports entertainment'-type promotion?

Bill: The AWA's in very good hands if we buy it, Verne. It will remain a wrestling company first, last and always.

Jim: But that doesn't mean we won't try and branch out with merchandising and possible TV deals and such.

But what will be presented on TV and in the arenas will be a wrestling product and not a 'sports entertainment' one.

Verne: What about national expansion?

Deb: We talked with Bill and Jim about it since they are the go-to wrestling guys. Right now, we feel it's important to concentrate on the territory we have right now and look to expand gradually from there. But that's a discussion for some point down the road. We look at it as building up our own houses first before moving into the houses of others.

Verne: Like that analogy, Deborah.

Deb smiled.

Deb: I like this wrestling talk stuff.

Everybody shared a light-hearted laugh.

Verne: I like what I'm hearing from you guys.

But you do know I have another offer on the table from Tribune Media.

I talked to Ron DeSantis the other day.

Jerry: Ron DeSantis? Sounds like a politician.

More laughter.

John: What did he say?

Verne: Well, Tribune's not only offered to pay us $36,000 a month and cover production costs for AWA Championship Wrestling on cable; they've now offered us $20,000 a month and to cover production costs for our syndicated show All-Star Wrestling.

Suddenly, the frivolity of the evening dissipated into thin air.

Deb: That's not something our group could do, Verne.

Verne: I understand that.

The waitress brought the check.

Verne: I've got this.

The group thanked Verne.

Bill (jokingly): Jerry, you gonna leave a tip? Make it a good one.

Jarrett glared over at Bill.

Verne: Are any of you leaving tonight?

All were staying overnight.

Verne: What time do you all leave tomorrow?

Deb and John said they left in the afternoon. Watts and Crockett were due to leave in the morning. Jarrett drove and could leave anytime.

Verne: Bill and Jim. Any chance you guys could bump your flights up to the afternoon?

Bill: I'll do it.

Jim: I will, too.

Verne: Greg and I are due to leave in the afternoon as well. Why don't we meet in the airport lounge tomorrow. I'll sleep on it and give you all a final answer tomorrow.

All parties were in agreement.

The final chapter of The Great AWA Sale was about to be written.

STAY TUNED...​

 

[the autumn wind]

NOVEMBER 1989​

AIRPORT LOUNGE - ST. LOUIS, MO

The dignitaries were gathered...

Team Blondie and Verne and Greg Gagne were all seated in the lounge.

The group ordered some adult beverages and made casual conversation.

The talk and light drinking continued.

Verne: Well, I had a night to sleep on it and I've made my decision.

First, I do want to let you know that I had a conversation with Ron DeSantis of Tribune Media last night after our dinner meeting.

Deborah Harry: How did it go?

Verne: Well, he made the same offer to me that he has been on behalf of Tribune.

We had a good conversation. Tribune has made a strong play for buying the AWA all along.

The TV part of the deal they offered was really hard to say no to.

So, Deborah, John, Jim, Bill and Jerry...

...you have a deal.

Momentary stunned silence.

John Waters: Did I hear you right, Verne? We have a deal?

Verne: Your ears did not deceive you, John.

Your team has the deal.

Bill: Hot damn!

Watts lightly pounded the table with his open hand.

Jim: Was beginning to think you were about to let us down gently, Verne. Nice swerve.

Verne: The more I thought about it, the more I liked the team assembled here in front of me.

John and Deborah, I was sold on your commitment to keeping the AWA a wrestling-first promotion.

And you've got good wrestling people working For you in Jim, Bill and Jerry.

John: And the wrestling people will be running the show.

Verne: One big negative in my eyes with Tribune is it's a big business empire. It had the stench of corporate all over it. In my eyes, pro wrestling is not corporate. There would have been way too many fingers in the pie; too many bosses who didn't know wrestling thinking they knew how to run a wrestling promotion because they used to watch it on TV or read the f-ucking Observer.

Plus, after several conversations with my wife, I decided it was time, after 42 years, to step aside and let some new blood step in and take the reigns. It was time to relax and smell the flowers.

With Tribune, I'd still have been charge. But I've had enough with the day-to-day operations.

Being a consultant will keep me in the game. Just not at the level I have been all these years.

Be nice to finally be the one watching on TV and saying: Why the hell did they do that?!

Everyone laughed.

Jerry: I think you'll be happy with how we handle your creation.

Verne: I'm confident in you guys.

John: Just how hard was it to walk away from the Tribune TV money?

Verne: Very hard. That was the main issue for me. I went back and forth in my mind a million times about it.

Ron was very gracious when I told him my decision.

Bill: How long are you gonna stay on as the boss?

Verne: We'll hash that out in a future meeting. But it won't be long. I'll be the big cheese for just a little while longer.

Deb: Thank you, Verne.

Verne: My pleasure. I feel the AWA is gonna be in good hands.

John: Well, I guess the next thing is going to be getting the sale in order, sign the deal and announce it to the press.

Jim: You've left us with a pretty good base to build on, Verne. There's some good talent here.

Verne: And now the AWA has some real money behind it to build on.

Deb stood up and raised her glass.

Deb: A toast.

Everyone grabbed their glasses and stood up.

Deb: To Verne Gagne. For all he has meant to this business and especially the AWA.

Group said: Here! Here! To Verne Gagne!

The group clinked their glasses together and took a drink.

The months of waiting and wondering were finally over.

From receiving a low-ball offer from radio magnate and the owner of MLB's Seattle Mariners Jeff Smulyan for less than $2 million.

From receiving an offer of almost $3 million from businessman and the NHL's Winnipeg Jets' owner Barry Shenkarow that Verne was prepared to accept until Shenkarow unveiled his garish and cartoonish plans for the promotion.

From selling the company to SF Giants owner Bob Lurie for just under $3 million and holding a press conference to announce the sale and then Lurie dying unexpectedly and the deal being rendered null and void.

From considering trying to find a financial backer with Verne still at the helm with a much needed cash infusion to make the AWA a competitor once again.

From Deborah Harry and John Waters looking to buy the AWA.

From Jim Crockett looking to buy the promotion.

From WWF boss Vince McMahon trying to swoop in and buy the AWA in an effort to thwart a big money investor group coming in and taking it over and Verne instead thwarting Vince.

From Crockett bringing in Bill Watts and looking to either buy the promotion themselves and ultimately teaming up with John Waters and Deborah Harry, and bringing in Jerry Jarrett late in the game, to put on a full-court press in a last-ditch effort to buy the AWA.

From Tribune Media making Verne the biggest offer he got for the promotion and Verne subsequently turning it down.

And Verne finally settling on 'Team Blondie' as the next owners of a promotion he had built from the ground up.

It was all finally over.

And Verne Gagne was $3.5 million dollars richer and ready to ride off into the sunset.

A new era was about to begin in the AWA.

COMING UP...

The transition and new AWA programming.​

 

[the autumn wind]

NEW AWA CO-OWNER DEBORAH HARRY AND FRIENDS!!!

Pictured w/ Harry: Lou Albano (L), Jimmy Valiant (B) & Andre (R)

​

 

[the autumn wind]

LATE NOVEMBER 1989

The new owners of the AWA, had arrived back at their homes after the historic and exhilarating meeting with Verne Gagne where Gagne agreed to sell the legendary promotion to them that now was going to have to go through a re-building phase.

But Deborah Harry placed a call to John Waters because she had something else on her mind...

Harry called Waters and Waters' housekeeper picked up the phone.

HK: Hello. Waters residence.


Deb: Hi, love. Is John available?


HK: Hi, Deborah. He's here. Let me get him.


Harry waited for a minute or two before Waters picked up the phone.

Waters: Hello, Ms. AWA owner.


Deb: Hello, Mr. AWA owner.


Isn't this great?!


Waters: I'm really looking forward to it.


Ever think you'd own a wrestling promotion?


Deb: Not in 10 lifetimes would I have ever thought I'd be in the wrestling game.


Waters: What did you need, hon?


Deb: Just wanted to say that I think when we take control of the AWA we need to look at re-locating the AWA offices to a warmer climate.


Waters: We've touched on this before. And I'm right there with you. Those Minnesota winters can be brutal.


Deb: I think placing our offices in another city will appeal to some wrestlers we might try and sign.


Waters: I'm right on board with you.


Deb: We should meet some time before Christmas to start putting together a moving strategy.


Waters: You got any cities in mind right now?


Deb: Two cities I was already thinking of were L.A. and Vegas.


Waters: I like your thinking, young lady.


Vegas would be my #1 choice since the monthly ESPN tapings take place there.


Deb: When we start growing, we might outgrow the Showboat if we start drawing huge crowds.

Waters: That's something we can discuss at a later date. But I think it needs to happen. And you know the wrestlers would love Vegas, or L.A. for that matter, as a home base.


Deb: Be a great selling point.


Waters: Well, let's think about this and discuss it soon.


Deb: Will do. I'm so excited right now. I feel like I'm floating on air.


The AWA: Presented by a Hollywood director and a rock star.


Waters: Love the sound of it.


Deb: I really think over time we can beat Vince McMahon.


Waters: Let's not get ahead of ourselves. That will be a steep climb. But the thought is exciting to say the least.


Deb: Just wanted to touch base with you on that.


Talk to you later, hon.


Waters: OK. It's a good way to kick things off.


Talk to you later.


The two owners, who will own 60% of the company when the sale is completed, are going to fire their first shot in the wrestling war very soon.

The re-making of the AWA had begun.

STAY TUNED...​

 

[the autumn wind]

AWA ON ESPN - SHOWBOAT SPORTS PAVILION - LAS VEGAS, NV - NOVEMBER 1989​

(NOTE: IRL, these tapings would have taken place in later October/early November before the sale of the AWA was agreed upon.)

(1st Taping Re-cap)

Show Intro: ​

ANNOUNCERS: Lee Marshall & Lord James Blears​

IN-RING INTERVIEWER/RING ANNOUNCER: Larry Nelson​

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

#1 CONTENDER MATCH FOR THE AWA WOMEN'S WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP: Lelani Kai vs. Magnificent Mimi​

SC 4 INSTANT CLASSIC: Greg Valentine's AWA debut match vs. Baron Von Raschke and the emotional farewell Von Raschke bid pro wrestling​

An update on the Pro Wrestling Heritage 16-Man Championship Tournament

A look at Larry Zbyszko's attack last week on The Trooper on All-Star Wrestling​

An update on the Lee Marshall-Tommy Rich challenge situation​

Jerry Blackwell sees action​

AND MORE!​

Nelson then sent it to the ring in Vegas.​

Col. DeBeers won a squash match over Joey Bishop via pinfall with his face-first piledriver finisher​

DeBeers toyed with Bishop before finishing him off​

​

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

​

Larry Nelson: Col. DeBeers! Wrestling fans everywhere are buzzing about what you did to Tom Zenk at Super Clash 4!

​

We clearly saw you put some sort of blue substance on your thumb and jammed it in Zenk's eye and it helped you score a tainted victory over Zenk.

DeBeers: A tainted victory?! Excuse me!

I beat the American disgrace known as Tom Zenk, 1-2-3 right in the middle of the ring!​

And I'm tired of hearing how I had to cheat to win!

Zenk lost because he's a decadent American who thinks mixing with the dark races is somehow a wonderful thing!

He ran into a buzzsaw when he squared off with me because I don't allow myself to be polluted!​

Some in the crowd booed.​

Nelson (in a stunned voice): Polluted?! Are you kidding me?!​

DeBeers: You heard me right, Nelson. Blood pollution leads to degradation. And degradation leads to the collapse of civilization.​

Nelson: You've said a lot of controversial things before. But I think this tirade takes first prize.​

DeBeers: So, the truth is now controversial, eh? It's only controversial to those who live in some sort of mental la-la land.​

Tom Zenk is American trash! He should be ashamed of the way behaves! He knows he could act like a man of honor but flat out chooses not to! He's proud of his debauchery!​

My win at Super Clash 4 was a win for decency. These Americans show just how mind bent they are when they boo me! Their brains have been scrambled by the boob tube! They don't know which way is up!​

Whatever their media masters tell them to believe they believe because deep thinking is not a cherished American value!

Crowd was starting to get hot and some trash was thrown in the ring.​

Nelson: We need to wrap this up! I value my life!

Col. DeBeers, everybody!​

Pic aired of the AWA logo with the caption: NEXT... 16 MEN! 1 TITLE!​

Commercials​

In-Studio: Nelson talked about the interview with DeBeers and how heated it got in the ring because of the inflammatory things​

DeBeers was saying. Nelson said he'd never been more worried about his safety in his life, and that included a stint in Vietnam. Said standing next to DeBeers was like standing next to a giant bullseye.​

Nelson then introduced video of PWI's Bill Apter talking about the upcoming Pro Wrestling Heritage Championship Tournament in February 1990 in Anaheim.​

VIDEO:

Apter was standing in front of the PWI logo with mic in hand. He was in street clothes.​

Apter: Hello, wrestling fans!​

This is Bill Apter from Pro Wrestling Illustrated.​

Mark Saturday, February 17th, on your calendar. ​

That's the day the 16-man tournament to decide the first-ever Pro Wrestling Heritage Champion will be determined.

The tournament will be held at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California.​

Anaheim is a world class city with great places to stay and eat and see. Of course, there's also Disneyland and the beach is nearby.

And Anaheim also has great weather in February.

The historic event will take place in two sessions.​

The opening round will take place at 12:30pm on the 17th. And the quarterfinals, semifinals and tournament final will take place that evening at 7:30pm.

It promises to be a great, full day of wrestling action.

Tickets for the event are now on sale. ​

For ticket information: call the Anaheim Convention Center Box Office at (714) 555-1812 or contact Ticketmaster.​

This is shaping up to be a great event, wrestling fans! Be part of it!​

See you February 17th in Anaheim!​

I'm Bill Apter. Until next time.​

Video aired of Zbyszko's assault on The Trooper with the caption: NEXT... LARRY FOUGHT THE LAW...​

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!

In-Studio: Nelson intro'd video from last week of Larry Zbyszko attacking the The Trooper Del Wilkes. ​

VIDEO: ​

(From All-Star Wrestling) ​

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW AT RINGSIDE:

Nelson: 'Trooper' Del Wilkes, you just continue racking up the wins here in the AWA with that devastating submission hold of yours.

What's next for 'The Trooper'?

Wilkes: Larry, I've just gotta keep going here in the AWA. Gotta keep winning and working my way up the ladder; because just like every wrestler that enters this sport, my goal is to one day be the AWA World Champion. ​

Fans cheered. ​

Nelson: You keep on winning and I think it's a safe bet to say that you'll be... ​

Crowd booed as Larry Zbyszko walked into the picture. ​

Zbyszko: I bet you think you're a real big man with that badge of yours, buddy! ​

Wilkes just looked at Zbyszko. ​

Zbyszko: You come out here and this idiot asks you what you're gonna do next and you talk about challenging for the World Championship?! Did I hear that correctly?! ​

Wilkes: Wait a minute! I didn't say it that way! I siad I've got to continue winning and...

Zbyszko: You stood right here and said you were deserving of a World Title match! Is that true or not?! ​

Wilkes: If I keep winning my matches I think I will deserve a crack at the championship!

Zbyszko: The gall of this man!

Zbyszko pointed an accusatory finger at Wilkes. ​

Zbyszko: You seem to think somebody should just hand you whateverr it is you want! Is it because you wear that badge, buddy?! ​

Wilkes: You're twisting my words! Why don't you just calm...

Zbyszko slapped Wilkes. Wilkes briefly touched his jaw and then popped Zbyszko with a slap of his own. Slap was so hard that ​

Zbyszko stumbled and crashed to the floor as the crowd popped. ​

An angry Wilkes glared down at Zbyszko. Zbyszko unsteadily made it to his feet holding the side of his face. ​

Zbyszko stumbled off and out of the picture. ​

Wilkes: Larry Nelson! I don't know what Zbyszko's problem is! But if he wants a piece of...

Zbyszko charged back into the picture and nailed Wilkes from behind with a forearm smash to the back. Wilkes stumbled forward. Zbyszko pounced on Wilkes and hammered away on Wilkes. Zbyszko threw Wilkes into the ring. Zbyszko followed Wilkes in stomped Wilkes, snapped Wilkes up, whipped Wilkes into the ropes and caught Wilkes coming off with a spin kick to the chest. Wilkes crashed to the mat. ​

Zbyszko picked up on a mic. ​

Zbyszko: This clown needs to be taught a lesson! ​

Zbyszko left the ring, grabbed an empty folding metal chair that was sitting next to the timekeeper's table, folded it up and climbed back into the ring with it as Wilkes was getting to his feet. Wilkes up and facing away from Zbyszko and Zbyszko slammed the chair into Wilkes' back. Wilkes staggered. Zbyszko repeated the chair shot and Wilkes went down. Wilkes got to all fours and Zbyszko slammed the chair across Wilkes back twice. Wilkes back down on the mat. Zbyszko then methodically started beating Wilkes with the chair. Shots were so violent they bent the top of the chair. Crowd popped as some of the faces anbd refs charged down to the ring. Zbyszko tossed the chair and bailed to the safety of the floor as the wrestlers and refs hit the ring. Zbyszko didn't wait around and just headed back up the heel aisle as Wilkes was checked on in the ring. ​

END VIDEO ​

In-Studio: Nelson briefly discussed the assault on The Trooper by Zbyszko.​

Nelson then sent it back to the ring in Vegas.​

Jerry Blackwell won a squash match over Jet Bodeen via pinfall with his diving splash finisher​

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:​

Nelson: Jerry Blackwell, we are getting closer to the day when you finally face off against Kokina Maximus.​

Blackwell: I see that Kokina is now bringing a stretcher to ringside with him! And who is this doctor of his and why does he wear a mask?! Why doesn't the good doc want people to knowm who he is?

Short and to the point! Kokina Maximus is not just a wrestler! He's also a destroyer! He likes to hurt people!​

Well, Kokina, I just have one thing to say to you! You ain't treatin' me like you've treated some of these other wrestlers! You're not takin' liberties with me!
And I can damn sure tell you that you're not stretchering me outta no arena!​

Come to fight, Kokina! Come to fight!​

Nelson: Jerry Blackwell, everybody!​

Pic aired of the AWA logo with the caption: NEXT... SUPER CLASH CLASSIC!​

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd the SC 4 match featuring Greg Valentine's AWA debut and Baron Von Raschke's emotional farewell to wrestling.​

​

VIDEO: ​

(From Super Clash 4 - 10/18/89) ​

DEBUT MATCH ​

Greg Valentine vs. Baron Von Raschke

Baron Von Raschke came to the ring to a solid ovation from the crowd. Baron climbed into the ring and walked to a neutral corner.

Greg Valentine came down the aisle to pretty strong boos but also had his fans. Valentine climbed in the ring and went to a neutral corner.

Nelson intro'd the Baron. Nice response from the crowd as Baron did the goose-step (try doing that as a face today) and did the claw gesture with his right hand.

Nelson then intro'd Valentine to mainly boos. Valentine stepped out of he corner and did the Ric Flair spread the arms out wide and spin around in his robe.

Valentine and Von Raschke removed their robes and Von Raschke pulled on the top rope to stretch a little as the ref called for the bell.

Crowd buzzing as the two men came out and circled one another. Greg took a swipe at Baron but the Baron evaded it.

The two continued to circle one another and then engaged in a collar-and-elbow tie-up. Greg gained the advanatage and drove Baron against the ropes. Ref ordered a break. Clean break. The two circled each other once again and engaged in another collar-and-elbow tie-up. After a brief struggle, Greg was able to catch Baron in a hammerlock. Greg tightened up on the hold but Baron refused to submit. Baron was then able to maneuver around and reverse the hold and lock Greg in the hammerlock. Baron took Greg down in the hold. Baron cranked away on Greg's left arm and Greg was squirming. Ref asked if Greg gave up and Greg said no. Baron, still holding Greg in the hammerlock, proceeded to drive a series of swinging knees into Greg's back. Baron released the hold. Greg made it to his feet and was shaking out his left arm from the effects of the hammerlock. Baron moved in on Greg and Greg quickly leaned out between the top and middle rope. Ref ordered Baron back. Greg still shaking out his left arm. Greg slowly pulled his upper body back into the ring. Baron started to move on Greg and Greg again leaned out through the top and middle rope and the ref ordered Baron back once more. Greg yelled at the ref to: Keep that Kraut away from me! Greg slowly pulled his upper body back into the ring. Baron again moved on Greg and Greg feigned he was going to stick his upper body out through the ropes again and Baron hesitated and Greg stunned Baron with a kick to the gut. Baron doubled over holding his gut. Greg moved in and hit Baron with a series of elbows to the back of the neck, the last one dropping Baron to a knee. Baron holding the back of his neck. Greg snapped Baron up and nailed Baron with a suplex. Greg up and nailed Baron with an elbow smash across the chest. Greg up, pointed at the ropes, ran and hit the ropes and came off with a running elbow smash that connected. Greg for the cover. 1...2... Baron kicked out. Greg snapped up Baron and slammed Baron's head into the top buckle. Baron turned around and Greg blasted Baron with a chop. Baron eye's suddenly widened and his body seemed to stiffen. Crowd buzzing like a driver coming home from a bar on Friday night. Valentine hit Baron with another chest chop and again the Baron stiffened. Greg then reared back for a third chop and the Baron again no-sold it. Baron goose-stepped out of the corner to the delight of the crowd. Greg then grabbed Baron and went to whip Baron into the opposite buckles but Baron reversed and sent Greg crashing into them. Baron moved in and hit Greg with a series of shoulder blocks to the gut. Baron then went to lock Greg in the Iron Claw but Greg got his arms up and crossed in an 'X' formation to block the move. Greg went down to his ass in the corner and quickly rolled under the bottom rope and dropped to the floor.

Crowd into the match. Greg walking around on the floor as the Baron gestured for him to get back in the ring. Ref started the 10-count. Count grew and Greg climbed up on the apron and quickly got into the ring and tackled baron to the mat and the two rolled around engaging in a wild punch exchange. Ref trying to get them separated. The two finally separated and both men got to their feet and briefly shook out the effects of the match. Baron moved in on Greg and Greg stunned Baron with another chest chop. This time, Baron felt it. Greg then fired away with a series of chest chops on the Baron, the last one knocking Baron to the mat. Greg quickly moved in and grabbed Baron's right leg and yanked on it a few times and then went to lock Baron in the figure 4 but Baron reached up and caught Greg in a small package for the pin. 1...2... Greg kicked out. Fans groaned. Both men up and and Greg caught Baron with a shot to the gut. Greg went to whip Baron into the ropes but Baron reversed and caught Greg coming off with a high backdrop. Greg crashed to the mat. Greg up and Baron caught Greg with a couple of head shots that drove Greg next to the ropes. Baron leaned Greg back across the top rope and blasted Greg with a series of forearm smashes to the chest. Greg staggered off holding his chest. Baron grabbed Greg and went to whip Greg into the ropes but Greg reversed and looked to catch the Baron coming off with a high backdrop but the Baron leapfrogged Greg. Greg up and turned and the Baron stunned Greg by catching Greg in the Iron Claw. Crowd popped big-time for the old German. Greg struggling to free himself from the hold. Greg maeuvered close enough to get his hand on the top rope to try and force a break but Baron yanked Greg away from the ropes still locked in the hold. Crowd cheering even louder.

Greg started to weaken in the hold and was getting desperate.

Marshall: The Baron might just pull this off!

Greg went down to a knee and then fell back while still locked in the hold. Greg was able to reached over and grab the middle rope and force a break. Crowd groaned. Ref ordered the Baron back as Greg was still leaned against the ropes shaking out the effects of the Iron Claw. Greg slowly to his feet. Ref aksed Greg if he could continue and Greg nodded and said 'yes'. Greg and Baron circled one another and engaged in another collar-and-elbow tie-up and Baron quickly gained the advantage and caught Greg in a side headlock but Greg countered with a belly-to-back suplex. Baron up facing away from Greg and Greg moved in behind Baron and nailed Baron with a chop block to the back of the knee area. Baron crumpled to the mat. Greg went over and stomped on Baron's right knee, grabbed Baron's right leg and yanked on it a few times and then locked Baron in the figure 4. Most of the crowd roaring for Baron to not submit. Baron fighting hard through the pain. Baron not giving up. Baron then started to reverse the hold. Crowd cheering Baron on. Greg fought against the hold being reversed. A struggle ensued. Just as it appeared that Baron would complete the reversal, Greg was able to shift his weight and regain control of the hold. Crowd groaned.

A few seconds later...

it was all over as Baron could no longer stand the pain and shook his head 'yes' and cried out 'yes' to the ref. Ref called for the bell.

Valentine released the hold and got to his feet. Ref raised Valentine's hand in victory. Baron still down. Valentine left the ring, Stood on the apron and raised his arms victoriously in the air to mainly boos. Valentine then left the scene and disappeared to the back.

WINNER: Valentine - Submission - 11:02

POST-MATCH:

Baron had started to recover and got to his hands and knees. Ref went to help Baron up but Baron waved off the ref. Baron, on shaky legs, made it to his feet as the crowd looked on. Ref said something to Baron and Baron said something in return and the ref left the ring. Baron was limping. Baron stood center ring and looked out at the crowd.
​

Marshall: Baron sure is staying in that ring a long time. Wait a minute... ​

Crowd cheered Baron. Baron then walked/limped over to a corner and sat down. He briefly bowed his head and then looked up. His eyes were glistening. Baron then started to untie his boot laces. The announcers remained silent. Baron took off his boots and, with the aid of the ropes, made it to his feet. Baron hobbled out to mid-ring and placed his boots there. Baron looked out at the crowd once more. Shot of some fans crying at the moment. Baron then made the Iron Claw gesture one more time as the fans popped and chanted: Baron! Baron! Baron!

Baron then left the ring and dropped to the floor. He was still limping from the effects of the figure 4. Shot of the Baron from behind as he made his way back up the face aisle.

Shot of Baron's ring boots left in the middle of the ring as the fans continued to chant his name as the program faded to black. ​

In-Studio: Larry Nelson talked about what an emotional moment it was when Baron retired. Said lots of people had tears in their eyes when Baron took off the boots and left them mid-ring.​

Split-screen pic of Lee Marshall and Tommy Rich aired with the caption: NEXT... MARSHALL VS. RICH!!!​

Commercials​

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd footage from last week's confrontation between Tommy Rich and announcer Lee Marshall from last week's AWA Wrestling on ESPN.​

VIDEO: ​

Marshall: Here's the point, then! ​

Tommy, I want you in a wrestling match! ​

Crowd popped. ​

Rich looked away and briefly chuckled and then looked back at Lee. ​

Rich: You really want a match with me...a former NWA World Champion? Haha! He's joking, Larry. ​

Marshall: It's no joke. I want a match with you on one condition. ​

Rich: Let me guess, I have to have my hands tied behind my back. ​

Marshall: No. The only thing I'm...

Rich: I have to be blindfolded, right? I can't see you. ​

Marshall: No. Since I'm not a wrestler, I'll need some time to train. And I want it to be a tag match. You pick your partner and I'll pick mine.
​

Rich: You want a tag match with me, huh?

​

Well, I'll give you your match, Lee Marshall. Each of us picks their tag partner.

​

But I want one stipulation added to the match.

Marshall: What is it? ​

Rich: If my team wins...then I get five minutes alone with you in the ring. Just you and me. No one can interfere and no AWA officials can stop the five-minute period for any...and I mean any...reason. ​

No matter how ugly or bloody it may get, the five minutes are the full five minutes. ​

Marshall: If the AWA bosses will agree to all this then I accept. ​

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Nelson then intro'd comments from both men about the situation.​

VIDEO:​

​

Video opened with a shot of Lee Marshall, in his announcer tux, standing in front of the AWA logo. He had a mic.

Lee: Well, Tommy Rich has accepted the offer for a tag team match. He gets to choose his partner and I get to choose mine.

I've started looking for a tag team partner. So far, I'm just in the feeling out phase. I want to make sure we're a good fit.

This match means an awful lot to me.​

Tommy Rich may be the most disrespectful wrestler I've ever come upon.

He's shown his true character by attacking an announcer. What does that say about him?

I want a match with Tommy. But, I also know that I am not a trained professional wrestler. There's no way I could outwrestle Rich on my own. That's why I asked for this to be a tag team match.​

Someone has got to put Tommy Rich in his place.​

Pic flipped and Rich was standing in front of a non-descript white wall in the back of an arena. Rich was in street clothes with mic in hand.​

Rich: Lee Marshall...boy...are you dumber than you look?! Haha!

Guess what, Lee?!

I've already got my tag team partner for our match!​

You heard that right, son! ​

I looked far and wide in my search for a tag team partner for this match!​

I wanted someone who fights according to his own rules and also doesn't suck up and kiss the rear ends of announcers!​

Well, I found him, boy!​

And next week, right here on AWA Wrestling on ESPN, I'm gonna introduce him to the world!​

Lee Marshall! Prepare to receive a cold, hard slap of reality!​

END VIDEO​

Pic aired of the AWA logo with the caption: NEXT... #1 CONTENDER'S MATCH!!!​

Commercials

TV MAIN EVENT: #1 CONTENDER'S MATCH​

Lelani Kai vs. Magnificent Mimi​

Both wrestlers came out to a mixed crowd reax.​

The match was a see-saw affair between these two with each taking shortcuts to gain an advantage during the match. Some exciting near falls.​

End of the match saw the match still going back-and-forth.

Mimi briefly worked over Kai and whipped Kai into the ropes and Kai came off and caught Mimi with a flying crossbody. Mimi stumbled back and crashed to the mat with Kai on top of her for the pin. 1...2... Mimi kicked out. Both women up and Kai stunned Mimi with a boot to the gut and then went to catch Mimi in a backslide but Mimi blocked the move and reversed and caught Kai with a backslide for the pin. 1...2... Kai kicked out. Both women up and Mimi swung wildly at Kai and missed and Kai caught Mimi with a belly-to-back suplex into a bridgeout for the pin. 1...2... Mimi kicked out. Kai and Mimi up and exchanged forearms to the chest and Kai gained the advantage and whipped Mimi into the ropes and looked to catch Mimi with a backdrop but Mimi leapfrogged Kai, spun around, grabbed Kai and ran Kai into the ropes for the roll-up pin. 1... Mimi grabbed a handful of tights. ...2...thr... Kai managed to kick Mimi off. Mimi went down. Both women up and they both went for a dropkick and missed and both crashed to the mat. Ref counting the 10-count. Both women up as the count neared 10. Mimi up facing away from Kai. Kai dropkicked Mimi in the back and Mimi slammed front-first into the buckles. Kai rolled Mimi up from behind for the pin. 1... Kai got her feet on the middle rope. ...2...thr... Ref looked up and saw Kai's feet on the middle rope and ordered a break. Kai had words for the ref. Kai snapped up Mimi and went to bodyslam Mimi but Mimi caught Kai in a small package for the pin. 1...2...thr... Kai kicked out. Both women up and Mimi caught Kai with a kick to the side of the ribs. Mimi raked Kai's eyes across the top rope and broke the illegal move at the ref's count of 4. Mimi whipped Kai into the ropes and caught Kai coming off with a high backdrop. Kai slammed to the mat. Kai hurting. Mimi snapped Kai up by the hair and pulled Kai by her hair around the ring and then Mimi put her foot on the top buckle and slammed Kai's head into it. Mimi snatched Kai up and hoisted Kai up for a suplex but Kai managed to wriggle free from Mimi's grasp and drop down to her feet behind Mimi. Mimi turned and Kai blasted Mimi with a boot to the face out of nowhere. Mimi crashed to the mat and rolled over on her side. Kai was slow in turning MImi over on her back and going for the pin. 1...2...thr... Mimi kicked out. Mixed reax from the fans. Kai slammed the mat in frustration. Kai slammed Mimi's head into the mat three times and then snapped Mimi up and whipped Mimi into the ropes and looked to catch Mimi coming off with a backdrop but Mimi instead caught Kai with a kick to the chest. Kai shot up and stumbled back. Mimi hit Kai with a flying tackle. Mimi snapped Kai up and hit her with a sidebreaker across the knee. Mimi went out on the apron and mounted the top buckle as Kai slowly made it to her feet. Kai up and turned and was greeted by a missle dropkick from Mimi. Kai crashed to the mat. Mimi for the cover and hooked the leg. 1...2...3!
​

Ref called for the bell to a mixed crowd reax.

​

Mimi had won the right to face Wendi Richter for the AWA Women's Gold.

​

WINNER: Mimi - Pinfall - 9:14

​

END PROGRAM​

 

[the autumn wind]

DAY OF THE NOVEMBER ESPN TV TAPINGS

SHOWBOAT HOTEL - LAS VEGAS, NV

(NOTE: Since I concentrated on the company sale issue because I wanted to get it done (sale took place in late November in the storyline), we're now going back to late October/early November and the day of the AWA on ESPN tapings in Vegas.

What you are about to read just popped into my head after I already posted the first AWA on ESPN show for November.

Things could be a little cattywompus posting-wise for the time being. Please pay attention to dates and any notes I leave on posts to keep up with where we are.

Thanx.)

Robert Remus (Sgt. Slaughter) and Stan Hansen had arrived at the Showboat Hotel and had gone to their respective rooms.

AWA boss Verne Gagne was in his room and called and asked to be connected to the room of Slaughter.

Verne told the champ to come on up to his room.

Verne had some brews waiting for Sarge and Hansen.

Sarge arrived a few minutes after the call and the pair sat and chatted for a few minutes.

After about 20 minutes of casual conversation and light drinking (the heavy stuff would start after the show! ) Verne picked up the phone again and was connected to the room of Stan Hansen. Verne told Stan to come up to his room because they needed to talk about the night's tapings and the Hansen-Sarge program.

Verne was ever the staunch defender and practitioner of the art known as kayfabe.

Hansen arrived about five minutes later. The trio talked...and drank...for a few minutes before getting down to business.

Verne: Bob. Stan. Here's what I have in mind for you guys.

Let me know what you think.

We're gonna do an angle between you two that will air on ESPN the second half of November.

The angle is simple.

Bob, you're out for an interview and Stan Hansen shows up.

Stan runs his mouth a little and then the two of you get into a heated discussion.

Bob, during the war of words, you're getting really angry and turn to walk away from Stan.

Stan will then hit you with a running lariat to the back of the neck.

Bob, you go down and stay down and sell the neck.

Sarge: When will I be out of action?

Verne: You'll be defending the title at the houses until the angle airs on ESPN. Then, you won't wrestle again until Christmas night in Minneapolis.

You'll go into the Christmas night match still with a hurting neck and wearing a neck collar.

Stan will violently ambush you before the match and attack the neck.

We'll do the routine where the medics come out and examine you and tell President Blackburn that you're not fit to wrestle that night.

But, being Sarge, you'll demand to wrestle the match against Hansen and Blackburn, extremely uncomfortable, will allow the match to go forward.

Stan, you'll dominate most of the match by mainly attacking Sarge's neck.

The finish will be a match stoppage and Hansen is declared the new AWA World Champion. Haven't decided how the stoppage will occur. Either Bob is just seriously beat down and the ref just calls it or one of the boys comes to the ring and throws in the towel to stop the match.

Bob, you'll be stretchered off after the match to gain sympathy.

Hansen: OK. I'm the World Champion. When do I drop the strap back to Sarge?

Verne: I'm hoping you can do it in a Boot Camp match as a special attraction at the Pro Wrestling Heritage Championship Tournament on February 17th in Anaheim.

Hansen: I'm supposed to be in Japan then, Verne. Tour starts at the beginning of February.

Verne: Can you contact Baba at All-Japan and ask him if you can come in two weeks after the start of the tour?

Hansen: That's a lot of money to give up.

Verne: I'll figure out a way to make it worth your while.

Hansen: You close to selling the company?

Verne: Right now, I'm talking to some groups about it. I am confident a deal will be struck in the near future.

Sarge: I'm on board.

Verne: Also, just made a deal with KMSP to air a live 2-hour special on Christmas night. Your match will be the main.

Show will be called Brawl in St. Paul 2 and will be at the St. Paul Civic Center.

Hansen: I'll call Baba and see what I can do.

Verne: Thanks, Stan.

Sarge: Is the angle our marching orders for tonight.

Verne: It is.

Let's go out there tonight and give 'em a good show.

Hansen: I'm in.

Sarge: Let's get this show on the road.

The trio went back to drinking and casual convo.

A major angle was about to go down.

Would it be a boom or a bust for the AWA...

STAY TUNED...