AWA 1989: A Financial Savior Is (Badly) Needed

[the autumn wind]

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

(2nd Taping Re-Cap)

Show Intro:

In-Studio: Larry Nelson welcomed viewers and ran down the program: Said an announcement was coming from AWA President Stanley Blackburn about whether the Destruction Crew would be allowed to retain the AWA World Tag Team Titles after what went down last week during their title clash with the champs Greg Gagne, filling in for an injured Ken Patera, and Brad Rheingans. Said the TV main was The Guerrero Bros. vs. Tommy Rich & Jonnie Stewart; The Top Guns see action; Magnificent Mimi wrestles; Brad Rheingans, Greg Gagne and Ken Patera have something to say after last week's controversial title loss; Wahoo McDaniel sees action; and more.Then sent it to the ring at the Showboat Sports Pavilion in Las Vegas.

Don Muraco def. Tony Zane in a squash in less than 2-minutes via pinfall with his inverted piledriver finisher.

Post-Match Interview w/ Larry Nelson: Muraco talked about all the great talent the AWA has and said it was truly the major league* of professional wrestling. Said he heard rumors of a new title being introduced in the AWA. Nelson said he'd also heard those rumors but, until he gets a firm answer on them, they're just rumors.Muraco closed the interview by saying he's looking for a partner to make a run at the Destruction Crew and those tag team titles.

Nelson wrapped up the interview and said there was more to come from Vegas.

Pic aired of Magnificent Mimi with the caption: Magnificent One sees action...NEXT!

(* Muraco said it with a straight face.)

Commercials: Members Only Jackets -

Back from commercials:

Magnificent Mimi won a squash over Whitney Hansen.

Post-Match interview w/ Larry Nelson: Mimi said it's great that so many gals are gunning for Wendi Richter. Said all those challengers will wear Richter down enough that she will be primed for destruction when Mimi clashes with Richter for the title.

In-Studio Promo: Col. DeBeersDeBeers was standing in front of the AWA logo with mic in hand. He was in his ring attire.

DeBeers: So, Tom Zenk, the un-natural man, because we know he didn't get that body just through hard work at the gym, has said that if I treat another vanquished opponent the way I treated the likes of Tommy Jammer and Jake Milliman that I was going to have to deal with him.

Ha!

I'm scheduled to wrestle on this program next week. Zenk...I will rough up the wrestlers I defeat if I feel like it!

None of them the deserves the respect of the good Colonel.

And if you stick your nose in my business, Zenk, you will pay a stiff price at the hands of this South African mercenary!

Pic aired of Wahoo with the caption: The Chief sees action...NEXT!

Commercials: Pizza Inn -

Back from commercials:

Wahoo McDaniel was dominating Terry Gibbs in a squash match. Wahoo had blasted Gibbs with his big chop finisher. Gibbs laid out in the ring. Suddenly, Manny Fernandez, in street clothes, charged down to ringside. Wahoo looked over and saw Fernandez. Fernandez gestured for Wahoo to come down to the floor and fight. Wahoo, enraged, left the ring and dropped to the floor and confronted Fernandez. Gibbs just laying in the ring. Fernandez started trash-talking Wahoo. Wahoo moved on Fernandez and Fernandez backed up and started begging off. Ref counting. Ref's count hit 10 and the ref called for the bell. A stunned Wahoo looked up at the ref. Ref went over and said something to Larry Nelson.

Gibbs slowly regaining his senses and got to his knees and the ref went over and raised his hand in victory as the fans booed.

Nelson: The referee has counted out Wahoo McDaniel! Your winner of the match...Terry Gibbs!

Fernandez started laughing and pointing at Wahoo. Wahoo glared back at Fernandez as his hands balled up into meaty fists.Fernandez picked up on a mic:

Fernandez: You lost to Terry Gibbs, Wahoo! Hahahaha!

Wahoo was seething.

Fernandez: Maybe you should lay off the fire water and quit dreaming about being the cheap smokes salesman of the year! Hahaha...

Wahoo tore into Fernandez at ringside with a stiff series of open hand chest chops as the fans popped. Fernandez staggered. Wahoo then moved in on Fernandez and caught Fernandez with a head shot and then Fernandez caught Wahoo with an eye rake. Fernandez laid into Wahoo with punches and sent Wahoo crashing into the ring steps. Wahoo staggered off. Fernandez came up behind Wahoo and grabbed Wahoo by the back of the hair and went to slam Wahoo's head into the ring apron but Wahoo got his hands on the apron and stiffened his arms and twice blocked Fernandez trying to slam his head into the apron. Wahoo caught Fernandez with a trio of elbows to the ribs and freed himself from Fernandez's grasp. Wahoo then slammed Fernandez's head into the apron. Fernandez spun around and Wahoo blasted Fernandez with a couple of more blistering open hand chest chops before Fernandez caught Wahoo with a kick to the gut. Wahoo stumbled back holding his tummy. Fernandez caught Wahoo with a head shot but Wahoo quickly shook it off and caught Fernandez with a shot to the gut. The two men then started exchanging punches and then Fernandez grabbed Wahoo by the throat and Wahoo countered doing the same to Fernandez. The two men were choking the life out of one another when wrestlers from both dressing rooms charged down the aisle to separate the warring factions.

Wahoo's face was a mask of rage and Fernandez was shit-talking Wahoo in Spanish. Both sides were being kept apart from one another. Fernandez made the bull sign and shouted:Viva la raza!

Wahoo broke free from those holding him back and jumped on Fernandez and the slugfest between the two re-ignited. Fans eating it up. Wrestlers once again stepped in to break things up and keep the two apart from one another.

Pic aired of the AWA World Tag Team Titles with the caption: President Blackburn's decision...NEXT!

Commercials: American Express -

Back from commercials:

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd video from the end of the tag team title match pitting champs Greg Gagne (Gagne was subbing for the injured Ken Patera) and Brad Rheingans against the Destruction Crew.

VIDEO:

Bloom moved in and caught Greg with a kick to the gut. Greg doubled over and fell back against the ropes. Bloom leaned Greg back across the top rope and popped Greg with a brutal, deliberate series of forearms to the chest. Bloom whipped Greg into the ropes and looked to catch Greg coming off with a backdrop but Greg leapfrogged Bloom, spun around and ran Bloom into the ropes and rolled Bloom up for the pin. 1...2... Bloom kicked out. Bloom up and swung wildly at Greg and missed and Greg caught Bloom from behind in the sleeper. Crowd popping. Bloom trying to escape the hold. Bloom started to fade. Ref raised Bloom's arm twice and it fell harmlessly back to Bloom's side. Enos hit the ring and came up behind Greg and nailed Greg with a forearm smash to the back. Greg lost his grip on the hold. Rheingans hit the ring and started belting Enos with punches that drove Enos into the corner. Ref trying to separate Enos and Rheingans. Greg and Bloom made it to their feet and Greg popped Bloom with another dropkick and Bloom crashed to the mat and rolled out on the apron to regain his bearings. Greg looked over and the ref was now tangled up with Rheingans and Enos in the corner. Greg went and tried to help the ref. While that was going on, Dallas Page charged down to ringside and handed Bloom his cane. Bloom climbed back into the ring and held the cane at the ready. Greg was unable to free the ref from the scrum. Greg turned and walked right into a cane shot to the side of the head from Bloom. Greg crumpled to the mat. Bloom tossed the cane back to DDP and then quickly covered Greg. Ref freed himself from the corner entanglement and dropped to make the count. 1... Rheingans got the upper hand on Enos and went to break up the pin try but Enos grabbed Rheingans by the back of the tights and pulled him back. ...2...3! Ref called for the bell as the crowd booed.

Ref took the titles and handed them to Bloom and Enos. The two men hugged and celebrated in the ring.

Nelson: In a time of 17 minutes, 34 seconds, your winners, and NEW AWA World Tag Team Champions...The Destruction Crew!

In-Studio:

Nelson: AWA President Stanley Blackburn has rendered a decision regarding this matter as to whether or not the title change will stand.

VIDEO: Video faded in on Prez Stanley Blackburn sitting behind the big desk in his office.

Blackburn: Hello. This is AWA President Stanley Blackburn.

Last week, with the help of outside interference from Badd Company manager Dallas Page, the Destruction defeated the team of Brad Rheingans and Greg Gagne, who was wrestling in place of the injured Ken Patera, to win the tag team titles.

After re-watching the tape of the match, this is not an easy thing to do, I have decided to let the decision stand. The Destruction Crew are the new AWA World Tag Team Champions.

The reason for this decision was because the referee, Gary Derusha, was trying to re-store order in the match as things had gotten out of control and did not see the interference that helped the Destruction Crew win the match.

I could, based on the video evidence, overturn this decision and return the belts to the previous champions or hold the titles up until further notice. But, I believe it's important to let the human element take precedence in sporting competition. Mistakes will sometimes be made in situations like this. Or things won't be caught by the referee. Just look at the occasional missed or bad calls in other sports.

It happens, and we see the error that was made after the fact. Gary Derusha's a fine referee; one of the best in the business. He got caught in a tough situation and the Destruction Crew was able to take advantage of that fact and win the belts.

The decision stands.

But when Ken Patera can wrestle again, he and Brad Rheingans will be granted immediate re-matches against the Destruction Crew inside a steel cage and Dallas Page will be locked in a cage of his own to make sure he can't interfere and Greg Gagne will be the keeper of the key to Page's cage.

Thank you for your time.

Nelson then intro'd video from the former champs Ken Patera, Brad Rheingans, and Patera's sub, Greg Gagne.

VIDEO: The trio, in street clothes and Patera's left arm still in a sling, stood in-studio in front of the AWA logo. Each had a mic.

Rheingans: Let me just start by saying that we don't agree with President Blackburn's decision on this matter. But, we will abide by it.

When Ken comes back, the Destruction Crew is gonna have to defend those titles against us inside a steel cage! What are Enos and Bloom gonna do when there's nowhere to run?! What are they gonna do when they can't bank on outside interference?!

We're all about to find out real soon!

Patera: I'm chomping at the bit to step back inside the squared circle! I can't wait until my arm is out of this sling!

Greg Gagne did an excellent job filling in for me and the tag team titles would most likely still be in our possession had it not been for Dallas Page!

I think Blackburn's decision is wrong on every level!

But I will be back...and soon...and when the four of us are locked inside that steel cage, and Page is in lockdown in a cage of his own, what are the Destruction Crew going to do, huh?! What are they gonna do?!

There's no way out! Outside help won't be coming! You have to win on your own merit inside the cage, boys! We're about to find out if you can do it!

Greg: I was really down after getting pinned in the title match last week. But Ken and Brad have been great in keeping my spirits up during this time.

I have to admit that I was also disappointed in President Blackburn's decision to let the title change stand.

The side of my face is still hurting a bit where Bloom struck me with that cane.

But we move forward.

Page, you won't be able to pull any of your shenanigans when you're locked away inside your own little cell and I'm the keeper of the key!

The Destruction Crew is gonna have to fight like mad to retain those titles against these two men here!

And I'm gonna make sure Dallas Page doesn't get out of his cage to cause havoc!

Pic aired of the Top Guns with the caption...High Flying action...NEXT!

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!

Commercials: Murph's 76 -

Back from commercials: Top Guns (Ricky Rice & Derrick Dukes) won a squash over Jerry Allen & Tom Stone

Post-Match Interview w/ Larry Nelson: Guns talked about DDP helping the Destruction Crew win the World Tag team Titles last week. Talked about their recent brawl with DDP's team, Badd Company, which ended in a wild double DQ when the teams fought throughout the arena. Said there's definitely heat between the two teams. Also, talked about challenging the Destruction Crew for the World Tag Team Titles.

Nelson said more after the break.

Pic aired of Sgt. Slaughter in his ring attire with the AWA World Title slung over his left shoulder with the caption: Next Week! The World Champion is here!

Pic flipped and aired the AWA logo with the caption: The Main Event is next!

Commercials: Close-Up Tootpaste -

Back from commercials:

TV MAIN EVENT

Tommy Rich & Jonnie Stewart vs. Hector & Mando Guerrero

The Guerrero brothers made their way to the ring via the face aisle to a decent ovation from the crowd.

Rich and Stewart made their way down the heel aisle to the ring to mainly boos.

Once in the ring, Rich gestured for the ring mic and got it.

Rich: As you people all know, I am a former World Heavyweight Champion.

A few years ago, on a magical night in Augusta, Georgia, I defeated Harley Race to become the youngest NWA World Champion in history.

I had a spectacular run that ranked up there with the reigns of all-time greats.

Lee Marshall (exasperated): Not this again! His reign lasted all of five days!

Rich: Mando and Hector, because of my status as a former World Champion, I am demanding that you show me the respect I deserve.

The brothers looked amused at what was transpiring.

Rich: Also, Jonnie Stewart here is the future of wrestling. He is the man who will carry the sport on his shoulders into the '90s.

Crowd booed.

Mando stepped up to Rich.

Mando: Tommy...shut up!

Rich: How dare you speak to a man who is a former World Heavyweight Champion and the wrestler of the '90s like that!

Mando: Actions speak louder than words.

Let's wrestle, you two pandejos!

Many in the crowd erupted in laughter and some cheered.

Lee Marshall: Whoa! Stop the presses! We'll let you viewers look up what 'pandejo' means on your own time!

Stewart: If that's good, then me and Tommy are the best pandejos around!

Many of the fans were still laughing as Rich and Stewart looked around and were puzzled by the crowd reaction.

The Guerrero brothers were also chuckling.

Lord James Blears: It figures that Rich and Stewart think Mando just complimented them, Lee.

Match was an exciting see-saw affair with both teams scoring some exciting near falls. Match ended when Stewart's interference on behalf of Rich backfired and Stewart was driven from the ring and the Guerrero brothers nailed Rich with a double dropkick and Mando covered Rich to score the pinfall victory for his team.

WINNER: Hector & Mando Guerrero - 11:18

END OF PROGRAM:

 

[the autumn wind]

BREAKING NEWS!

FROM THE

MINNEAPOLIS STAR TRIBUNE!

Jets Owner Interested In Buying Gagne's AWA

Barry Shenkarow, owner of the NHL's Winnipeg Jets, has expressed interest in possibly buying the American Wrestling Association from Minneapolis-based owner/promoter Verne Gagne.

It's been rumored that Gagne is looking to either sell the promotion or bring on a wealthy financial backer in an effort to give the sinking promotion a much needed cash infusion and try to help turn their fortunes around.

Shenkarow, a multi-millionaire, is interested in getting involved in the wrestling business and would look to do a 'complete overhaul with a unique spin' on the AWA should he buy it.

What, exactly, the 'complete overhaul with a unique spin' is was not explained when we spoke to a Shenkarow spokesman.

There are also rumored to be a couple of other unnamed parties who are potentially interested in buying the AWA.

The AWA used to do tapings for the Canadian market in Winnipeg for a number of years.

 

[the autumn wind]

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

(3rd Taping Re-Cap)

Show Intro:

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

New World Champion Sgt. Slaughter makes an appearance

TV Main Event - Re-Match: The Top Guns vs. Badd Company w/ Mgr. Dallas Page

Jerry Blackwell is back and faces his old nemesis Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey

Col. DeBeers wrestles. Will the Col. take excessive liberties with his opponent after the match if DeBeers wins? Will Tom Zenk back up his words of recent weeks that he will personally deal with DeBeers if DeBeers takes advantage of another defeated foe?

And more!

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

Akio Sato defeated Tommy Jammer via pinfall with a flying kneedrop to the chest from the top rope - TIME: 6:36

In-Studio Promo: Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey said the feud between he and Jerry Blackwell continues and will never die until he has destroyed Blackwell.

Split-Screen Pic aired of El-Kaissey and Blackwell with the caption: THE FEUD IS RE-IGNITED...NEXT!

Commercials: Citgo Gas -

Back from commercials:

'Crusher' Jerry Blackwell vs. Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey

Before the match, Kaissey grabbed the ring mic from Larry Nelson and stated the following:

Kaissey: Jerry Blackwell! You made a big mistake coming back to the AWA! Your journey down your road of suffering begins tonight!

Blackwell walked over and snatched the mic out of Kaissey's hand. Kaissey reacted in a shocked fashion.

Blackwell: Sheik! Let me tell you something, boy! The only suffering there's gonna be tonight is when you feel all 500 pounds of the Mountain from Stone Mountain coming down on you!

Crowd cheered as Blackwell turned and tossed the mic.

Kaissey attacked Blackwell before the match.

Ref called for the bell.

Kaissey dominated early, but Blackwell fought his way back into the match. Blackwell took control and whipped Kaissey into the corner and went to hit Kaissey with his running splash finisher but Kaissey moved and Blackwell slammed front-first into the buckles.

Kaissey regained the upper hand and used a couple of illegal tactics on Blackwell in an effort to score the victory but Blackwell repelled the potential loss.

End of the match saw Blackwell on the offensive. Blackwell dropped Kaissey with a clothesline. An unsteady Kaissey made it to his feet and Blackwell went for his famous standing dropkick but Kaissey fell out of the way and all 500 pounds of Blackwell crashed to the mat. Blackwell down and hurting. As the ref checked on Blackwell, Kaissey crawled over by the ropes and reached into his tights and brandished a foreign object. Blackwell stirred and made it to his feet, Blackwell took a shaky step back and then moved in on Kaissey. Kaissey was now on a knee. Blackwell reached down and grabbed Kaissey and started pulling Kaissey up when Kaissey stunned Blackwell with a loaded right hand to the jaw. The big man crashed back to the mat. As the ref again looked at Blackwell, Kaissey turned facing the crowd and dropped the object back in his tights. Kaissey then quickly turned and dived down on the stunned and confused Blackwell for the pin. 1...2...thr... Blackwell threw Kaissey off. Crowd cheered. Kaissey up and moved in and started stomping away on the downed Blackwell. Blackwell started getting up and Kaissey hit Blackwell with some gut shots and then slammed Blackwell's head into the top buckle. Blackwell appeared out of it. Kaissey then went to whip Blackwell into the opposite buckles but Blackwell reversed and sent Kaissey slamming into the buckles. Kaissey stunned. Blackwell quickly regained his bearings, charged in and pulverized Kaissey with a running big splash. Blackwell pushed the limp Kaissey out of the corner and Kaissey crashed on his back in the ring as the fans cheered. Blackwell covered Kaissey for the pin. 1...2...3! Ref called for the bell to more cheers from the fans. Winner: Blackwell - TIME: 9:37

Pic aired of AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter with the caption: THE CHAMPION IS HERE...NEXT!

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!

Commercials: Big Bill Hell's Car Dealership -

Back from commercials:

In-ring: Larry Nelson.

Nelson: We are back here on AWA Championship Wrestling on ESPN.

Please welcome my guest at this time. He is the reigning AWA World Champion...Sgt. Slaughter!

Marine Corps Hymn played and out came Sarge to a good ovation. Sarge was in his ring attire and camo jacket and DI hat. He had the belt slung over his left shoulder. Sarge handed out little American flags on his way down the face entrance aisle to the ring. Sarge climbed in the ring and saluted the fans and they saluted back.

Nelson: These fans love ya, Sarge! And they are happy to see you, instead of Larry Zbysko, as the World Champion!

Sarge: It's quite an honor to hold this title, Larry! Many great men have held this championship! And I hope that I can make my mark as big as they did when they were the champion!

Fans: USA! USA! USA!

Nelson: You hear the chant, Sarge! You are 'America's Hero'!

Sarge acknowledged the fans.

Sarge: These fans out here are the life blood of this great, great sport of ours!

And I aim to be a champion they can be proud of!

It seemed like you had to take a shower after Larry Zbysko's reign of error was over because he's such a dirty player! You had to wash off the gunk and grime from that title reign!

Nelson: Do you look at this as a new era in wrestling?

Sarge: Yes, I do, Larry!

We are moving in a new direction! I promise to be a fighting champion and take on all deserving challengers for this, the top World Title in pro wrestling!

Nelson: Since Larry Zbysko lost the belt to you, he's obviously gonna get his re-match at some point. What are your thoughts on that?

Sarge: I saw the interview you did a couple of weeks ago with Zbysko! He wants this title back so badly! And that makes him a desperate man! And a desperate man is a dangerous man! Zbysko plays to win! And for him, winning is everything! It's his bottom line! Honor is a word that's foreign to him! He doesn't care how he gets it done! As long as he wins it's all that matters in Larry Land!

I know I'm gonna have quite the fight on my hands when we meet in the squared circle again! You have to prepare for Zbysko on so many levels! He's very smooth when it comes to breaking the rules...

Crowd booed as Zbysko, in his ring attire, made his way down the heel entrance aisle and climbed into the ring.

Nelson: Larry Zbysko! What are you doing out here?!

Zbysko walked up to Nelson and Sarge.

Zbysko: I came out here to tell Sgt. Slaughter and all his moronic followers that they'd better enjoy the ride while they can! Because this ride isn't going to last long! I'm gunning for you, Sarge! And I'm gonna be the AWA World Champion again very soon!

Sarge: We'll see about that, Zbysko! You've gotta beat me first! Talk is cheap!

Zbysko: It's especially cheap when it's coming out of your mouth, GI Joke!

You just make sure to keep that title nice and shiny for when I win it back!

I've never been more determined to do anything in my life! I AM going to be the World Champion once again! And you Slaughter-loving goobers can wallow in my greatness! A greatness that none of you will ever attain!

Sarge: These fans out here...they make this sport go around! Without them...nothing! You just remember that!

Zbysko: You can have these idiots, Sarge! Look at 'em! The IQ points are just draining out of my body being in their midst! And it's guys like me that make this sport go around! You need to remember that, Mr. Rambo wannabe!

Sarge: You can run your mouth all you want, Zbysko! I'll let my actions in this ring speak for me!

Zbysko: Your actions will speak loudly, Sarge! And your actions will spell one word: L-O-S-E-R! Got that?! Good!

Zbysko turned and left the ring and dropped the floor and headed back up the heel aisle.

Sarge: He can talk all he wants, Nelson! He wants this belt back?! He needs to put me down for the three count! Then he can gloat all he wants!

But he has to win first! And with these fans behind me, that's gonna be a tall order for him!

Fans cheered.

Nelson: Sgt. Slaughter, everybody!

AWA Championship Wrestling logo appeared on the screen with the words: MORE TO COME!

Commercials: Chunky Soup -

Back from commercials:

Col. DeBeers defeated Gino Carabello in a squash match via pinfall with his face-first piledriver finisher.

After the match: DeBeers gestured and called for Larry Nelson. Nelson climbed up on the apron with mic in hand.

DeBeers: No one tells the good Colonel what to do!

This piece of trash here, what's his name?!

Nelson: Gino Carabello.

Carabello was still down in the ring feeling the effects of DeBeers' finisher.

DeBeers: Carabello is a disgrace to this sport and his people! And now I've got to make an example of him!

DeBeers went over and grabbed the ref, who was checking on Carabello, and threw the ref through the top and middle rope and the ref crashed to the floor. DeBeers put the boots to the still down Carabello and then left the ring for the floor and went over and grabbed the ring bell off the timekeeper's table. DeBeers climbed back into the ring with the bell as Carabello was getting up. DeBeers smashed Carabello across the back with the ring bell and Carabello crashed back down to the mat. DeBeers then positioned the bell in the middle of the ring. DeBeers went over and quick-stomped Carabello and then DeBeers grabbed his hapless foe.

Lee Marshall: Is DeBeers going to face-first piledrive Carabello into the ring bell?!

Lord James Blears: If he succeeds in doing this, Lee, he might not only end the man's career, he could possibly end the man's life.

DeBeers positioned Carabello for the extremely dangerous move. Crowd popped as Tom Zenk, in his ring gear, charged down the face aisle and hit the ring, came up behind DeBeers and blasted DeBeers with a forearm smash to the back. DeBeers lost his grip on Carabello and Carabello went down helplessly to the mat. Zenk spun DeBeers around and laid into the Colonel with a series of head shots, whipped DeBeers into the ropes and blasted DeBeers coming off with a big clothesline. DeBeers crashed to the mat as most in the crowd popped. A stunned DeBeers made it to his feet and Zenk hit him with a running clothesline. DeBeers back down. Zenk went over and grabbed the ring bell as a shaky DeBeers made it slowly to his feet. DeBeers saw Zenk with the ring bell and the Colonel started to back/beg off as Zenk slowly moved in. DeBeers backed into the corner. Zenk looked to the crowd for approval and got it and Zenk went to hit DeBeers over the head with the ring bell but DeBeers lunged out of the way and the bell slammed into the top turnbuckle. DeBeers bailed from the ring to the floor and ran/stumbled back up the heel aisle. Zenk left the ring, bell still in hand, dropped to the floor and watched DeBeers vanish into the back.

Video aired from the last match between the Top Guns and Badd Company brawling into the crowd with the caption: WILL HISTORY REPEAT ITSELF???!!!

Commercials: Ralph Williams' Bay Shore Chrysler-Plymouth -

Back from commercials:

TV MAIN EVENT: The Top Guns (Ricky Rice & Derrick Dukes) vs. Badd Company (Pat Tanaka & Paul Diamond) w/ Mgr. Dallas Page

Before the match, announcers intro'd video from the two teams previous encounter a few weeks ago which ended in a double DQ as the match disintegrated into a brawl that wound up in the seats.

Match was a heated affair with both teams making a strong showing. Once again, the match got out of control and the two teams started brawling with each other. The action spilled out of the ring onto the floor. Ref again called for a double DQ between the two squads. The fighting continued around ringside and Rice and Tanaka took their fight into the face aisle as Dukes and Diamond were slugging it out at ringside. Page took the opportunity to strike Dukes from behind with his cane. Ref called for the bell a second time. DDP grabbed Dukes from behind as Diamond grabbed a seat from ringside. (NOTE: Showboat Sports Pavilion chairs were cushioned high-back chairs with a gold frame that did not fold.) Diamond rammed the head of the chair into Dukes' gut. DDP let go of Dukes and Dukes doubled over holding his gut. Diamond brought the back of the chair crashing down across Dukes' back and Dukes went down on the concrete floor. Rice gained the advantage over Tanaka in their personal skirmish. Dukes was now on his back on the floor and Diamond drove the head of the chair into Dukes' throat. Dukes struggling to breath. Rice saw what was happening, quickly grabbed a chair that a security guard had been sitting in and charged over. Diamond stopped choking Dukes out and he and Page fled the scene and joined up with Tanaka over by the heel aisle. Rice checked on the downed Dukes. Dukes sat up. Two EMT's came to ringside to check on Dukes.

Rice gestured for Larry Nelson. Nelson came over and Rice angrily grabbed the mic from Nelson's hand as Badd Co. looked on from the opening to the heel entrance aisle.

Rice: Badd Company! This isn't over! We're gonna meet again! And when we do...it's gonna be your funeral! All three of you!

Crowd cheered.

Shot of Badd Company looking on in typical sinister heel fashion.

DECISION: Double DQ - 8:14

END OF PROGRAM:

 

[the autumn wind]

SPRING 1989

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

Verne Gagne was sitting at his desk in his office at AWA HQ. Across from him were Wally Karbo and Verne's son, Greg.

Verne: I've called you guys in here to give you an update on where things stand right now.

First, we have another interested buyer in Barry Shenkarow. He owns the Winnipeg Jets of the NHL. I'm due to speak with him on the phone later this week.

Greg: Have you heard anything about how much he's willing to pay for the promotion.

Verne: Not yet. I don't want to be pushy. So, I'm not forcing the issue of money right now. I've only received a mail communication from one of his employees so far about his interest. We'll see how the phone call goes.

Wally: I read in the paper that he's got some ideas on how he wants to run the company.

Verne: I read that, too. Again, I don't want to seem pushy in trying to sell. I'll let him explain his ideas for the AWA when we talk.

Greg: If you sell to him, dad, just remember it's no longer your business. He can run it how he sees fit.

Verne: I know, son. But we've built up the AWA as a traditional wrestling company. I'll listen to what he has to say and then make a decision if he agrees to buy.

Wally: Are we bringing in a new wrestler?

Verne: Yeah. Sam Houston has agreed to come in and work for us. Hopefully, we'll have him in time for the next set of tapings in Vegas.

Greg: Got any ideas on how to use him yet?

Verne: He'll keep the cowboy gimmick he's got. But I haven't decided on whether he should be a heel or face.

Greg: I'd love to work with him when he gets here. Seems like a pretty solid hand in the ring from what I've seen.

Wally: What about Greg Valentine? I know he wanted out of the WWF, too.

Verne: With the way our finances are right now, I'm worried he might be too expensive for us. Might be able to book him for a few dates. But after that, who knows.

Wally: Are you still seeking a money man?

Verne: Not as vigorously as I was. Can't seem to find any interested parties to bankroll us. The ones I've talked to don't seem to want to take the risk.

Greg: I've looked at the booking sheet. It looks like we've got three good matches at the top of the card for some of the house shows. Hopefully, they can move some tickets.

Verne: Let's see. Sarge defends the World Title against Zbysko; Badd Company vs. Top Guns in a No Disqualification match; and, after Patera's return is officially announced on TV, the Destruction Crew defends the World Tag Team Titles against Brad Rheingans and Ken Patera in a steel cage with manager Dallas Page locked in a cage at ringside with Greg as keeper of the key to Page's cage.

Greg: Don't forget, dad, until Patera returns, it's gonna be the Destruction Crew and Manny Fernandez vs. Brad, myself and Wahoo.

Verne: Our ad budget's kind of tight. But, we need to use the bulk of it right now to advertise as much as possible in the markets where those three matches are happening on the card.

Wally: You'll have to move some ad funds around, Verne. That will hurt advertising in markets where all three of these matches aren't taking place.

Verne: I know. I hate to do it. But it's where we're at right now financially. Some of the smaller markets we regularly visit and spot show towns are just gonna have to take a hit in getting the word out except for promos on AWA TV shows airing in those towns.

Greg: And some of those towns now carry our program after midnight on the weekends. That hurts us even further as not as many eyeballs are on their TVs at that time.

Verne looked over at Greg and nodded in agreement.

Verne: There was something else I wanted to bring up with you two.

Wally: What is it?

Verne: I know I mentioned that Greg Valentine may be too expensive for us to bring in except for a few shots.

But there's a former AWA wrestler out there I think we might be able to strike some sort of deal with.

Greg: Who is it?

Verne: You know who I'm talking about, son.

Greg thought about it for a moment and then he got a serious case of the big eyes.

Greg: Him???!!! You don't mean...

Verne: Yes, I do mean him.

Greg: But he's pretty much been black-listed from all the major promotions in this country since his backstage fight with Mr. T in '85 when he was working for the WWF!

Verne: There's nothing legally binding that says we can't bring him in.

Greg: Well...no...

Wally: Bringing him back could spark some renewed interest with some of the fans we've lost over the last few years. It might be worth the gamble.

Greg: He could be a legal liability.

Verne: I think he wants to work again. And he wants to work in a promotion with some name value and not continue having to work in small regional promotions with very little reach outside their immediate areas.

Wally: If you can reach an agreement with him, then I say pull the trigger. We have nothing left to lose.

Greg: We could lose everything if he goes off half-cocked like he did with T or, even worse, what he did to news reporter John Stossel. We could be sued into oblivion and he could single-handedly put the AWA out of business.

Verne: The Stossel thing we discussed before. I do believe that Vince put him up to that.

He won't misbehave like that if there's money to be made; and if he wants to make a comeback in a promotion with national exposure.

Wally: The match-ups that are out there if he comes back...

Greg: Are those match-ups going to be in the ring or backstage.

Wally: In the ring...hopefully.

Greg shook his head in disgust.

Greg: You need to really think this one through, dad. He could be a real problem in the long run.

Verne: Well, then, does anyone have any better ideas?

The three men became quiet and an uneasy silence filled the room.

TO BE CONTINUED...

 

[the autumn wind]

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

(4th Taping Re-Cap)

Show Intro:

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

TV MAIN EVENT: Don Muraco vs. Manny Fernandez

A look back at Tom Zenk sending Col. DeBeers fleeing to the locker room after DeBeers tried to face-first piledrive his defeated opponent onto the ring bell

PLUS! The Colonel and Zenk both have something to say about the incident

Larry Zbysko sees his first action on AWA Championship Wrestling since dropping the World Title to Sgt. Slaughter

Wahoo McDaniel sees action against Terry Gibbs

Greg Gagne wrestles

AND MORE!!!

Nelson sent it to the Showboat Sports Pavilion in Las Vegas:

Jonnie Stewart won a squash match over George Wells via pinfall with his knee to the gut finisher

Post-Match Interview Highlight w/ Larry Nelson:

Stewart: I am the wrestler who is going to carry this sport into the 1990's! The '90s will go down as decade Jonnie Stewart took wrestling to greater heights than its ever been! Not even Hulkamania can surpass what I'm about to do!

It will be the Era of Jonnie! That's Jonnie without an 'h'!

Pic aired of World Champ Sgt. Slaughter with the list of the Top 5 Contenders for the AWA World Title.

Commercials: Atlanta Braves -

Back from commercials:

Announcers Lee Marshall and Lord James Blears intro'd video from the last match between Wahoo McDaniel and jobber Terry Gibbs.

VIDEO:

Wahoo McDaniel was dominating Terry Gibbs in a squash match. Wahoo had blasted Gibbs with his big chop finisher. Gibbs laid out in the ring. Suddenly, Manny Fernandez, in street clothes, charged down to ringside. Wahoo looked over and saw Fernandez. Fernandez gestured for Wahoo to come down to the floor and fight. Wahoo, enraged, left the ring and dropped to the floor and confronted Fernandez. Gibbs just laying in the ring. Fernandez started trash-talking Wahoo. Wahoo moved on Fernandez and Fernandez backed up and started begging off. Ref counting. Ref's count hit 10 and the ref called for the bell. A stunned Wahoo looked up at the ref. Ref went over and said something to Larry Nelson.

Gibbs slowly regaining his senses and got to his knees and the ref went over and raised his hand in victory as the fans booed.

Nelson: The referee has counted out Wahoo McDaniel! Your winner of the match...Terry Gibbs!

Fernandez started laughing and pointing at Wahoo. Wahoo glared back at Fernandez as his hands balled up into meaty fists.

Fernandez picked up on a mic:

Fernandez: You lost to Terry Gibbs, Wahoo! Hahahaha!

Wahoo was seething.

Wahoo tore into Fernandez at ringside with a stiff series of open hand chest chops as the fans popped. Fernandez staggered. Wahoo then moved in on Fernandez and caught Fernandez with a head shot and then Fernandez caught Wahoo with an eye rake. Fernandez laid into Wahoo with punches and sent Wahoo crashing into the ring steps. Wahoo staggered off. Fernandez came up behind Wahoo and grabbed Wahoo by the back of the hair and went to slam Wahoo's head into the ring apron but Wahoo got his hands on the apron and stiffened his arms and twice blocked Fernandez trying to slam his head into the apron. Wahoo caught Fernandez with a trio of elbows to the ribs and freed himself from Fernandez's grasp. Wahoo then slammed Fernandez's head into the apron. Fernandez spun around and Wahoo blasted Fernandez with a couple of more blistering open hand chest chops before Fernandez caught Wahoo with a kick to the gut. Wahoo stumbled back holding his tummy. Fernandez caught Wahoo with a head shot but Wahoo quickly shook it off and caught Fernandez with a shot to the gut. The two men then started exchanging punches and then Fernandez grabbed Wahoo by the throat and Wahoo countered doing the same to Fernandez. The two men were choking the life out of one another when wrestlers from both dressing rooms charged down the aisle to separate the warring factions.

Wahoo's face was a mask of rage and Fernandez was shit-talking Wahoo in Spanish. Both sides were being kept apart from one another. Fernandez made the bull sign and shouted: Viva la raza!

Wahoo broke free from those holding him back and jumped on Fernandez and the slugfest between the two re-ignited. Fans eating it up. Wrestlers once again stepped in to break things up and keep the two apart from one another.

Re-Match: Wahoo McDaniel vs. Terry Gibbs

Wahoo once again dominated Gibbs and Fernandez was nowhere to be found. Wahoo made quick work of Gibbs, scoring a pinfall in 39 seconds after whipping Gibbs into the ropes and catching Gibbs coming off with his big chop to the chest finisher.

Post-Match Interview Highlight w/ Larry Nelson:

Wahoo: Larry! This feud with Manny Fernandez is a blood feud with no end in sight! The fire that burns within me burns even hotter now after he cost me that match with Gibbs a few weeks ago and insulted my Indian heritage!

When I choked Fernandez after that match, I was hoping to choke the life right out of him! And the next time...I might just succeed in doing it!

Pic aired of Greg Gagne with the caption: THE HIGH FLYER SEES ACTION...NEXT!

Commercials: Sega Genesis -

Back from commercials:

Greg Gagne won a squash match over Tom Stone when he pinned Stone after a high flying dropkick

Post-Match Interview Highlight w/ Larry Nelson:

Greg: Larry, I have some great news to announce right now.

Ken Patera's arm and shoulder have almost completely healed and, with the way things look right now, he should be cleared again to wrestle in the next couple of weeks!

Crowd cheered.

Greg: Zbysko, if I was you I'd be looking over my shoulder right now! Ken Patera's on his way back and he's gunning for you!

In-Studio Promo Highlight w/ Manny Fernandez:

Fernandez: Don Muraco! Listen up, Hawaiian Punch!

We're two men who have a lot of pride in our heritage! But in this match, Mexican Pride is gonna put down Hawaiian Pride! You hear me?! Am I clear?!

You're going down, Muraco!

You're gonna get gored by the Ragin' Bull!

And then, after I beat you, I'm gonna add insult to injury by standing over your defeated carcass, giving the raging bull sign and saying those three words of victory...

VIVA LA RAZA!

I'll see you in the ring, daddy!

Pic of Zbysko aired with the caption: LARRY ZBYSKO RETURNS TO THE RING...NEXT!

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!

Commercials: Luskins -

Back from commercials:

Larry Zbysko decimated Mike Jackson and finished off the career jobber with a piledriver to score the pinfall

Post-Match Interview w/ Larry Nelson Highlight:

Zbysko: I heard Greg Gagne out here saying that Ken Patera is on his way back real soon!

I'll believe it when I see it! I messed up Patera's arm pretty good! I think it's a bluff, Nelson! Greg's just trying to get a rise out of me!

Nelson: What if Patera really is coming back in the very near future?

Zbysko: I'm not worried. Not in the least. Patera needs to worry, though. He needs to worry about his arm.

If he knows what's good for him, if he wants to retain the use of that arm for the rest of his life, then Patera might want to avoid me at all costs and I'm not kidding.

Oh! And as for Sgt. Slaughter! Sarge, the day of reckoning is coming between us!

I'm what a World Champion should be! And to all you idiots sitting out there and booing me, the good news is that I'm gonna be your World Champion again real soon!

Imagine that, Nelson! I regain the World Title and get to completely destroy Patera's arm in the deal! What a bargain!

Nelson: That was Larry Zbysko, everybody!

Crowd booed as Zbysko walked around in the ring and played to his universe of haters.

In-Studio Promo Highlight w/ Don Muraco:

Muraco: You know, I really don't like Manny Fernandez. I really don't.

This guy has caused all sorts of trouble for my friend Wahoo McDaniel.

He takes every shortcut and breaks every rule just to get his hand raised in victory.

Manny Fernandez is a despicable human being!

But I have to respect him...

You see, I use to be like Manny Fernandez. That's something I'm not proud of at all.

I used to cheat if I felt it helped me gain an advantage in the ring.

And Manny Fernandez, if you piss me off bad enough during our match...brother, I will revert to those old ways once again if I have to!

Video aired showing Tom Zenk attacking Col. DeBeers last week with the caption: THE COLONEL GETS HIS COMEUPPANCE...NEXT!

Commercials: Judas Priest -

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd video from last week of the Zenk-DeBeers confrontation.

VIDEO:

Col. DeBeers defeated Gino Carabello in a squash match via pinfall with his face-first piledriver finisher

After the match: DeBeers gestured and called for Larry Nelson. Nelson climbed up on the apron with mic in hand.

DeBeers: No one tells the good Colonel what to do!

This piece of trash here, what's his name?!

Nelson: Gino Carabello.

Carabello was still down in the ring feeling the effects of DeBeers' finisher.

DeBeers: Carabello is a disgrace to this sport and his people! And now I've got to make an example of him!

DeBeers went over and grabbed the ref, who was checking on Carabello, and threw the ref through the top and middle rope and the ref crashed to the floor. DeBeers put the boots to the still down Carabello and then left the ring for the floor and went over and grabbed the ring bell off the timekeeper's table. DeBeers climbed back into the ring with the bell as Carabello was getting up. DeBeers smashed Carabello across the back with the ring bell and Carabello crashed back down to the mat. DeBeers then positioned the bell in the middle of the ring. DeBeers went over and quick-stomped Carabello and then DeBeers grabbed his hapless foe.

Lee Marshall: Is DeBeers going to face-first piledrive Carabello into the ring bell?!

Lord James Blears: If he succeeds in doing this, Lee, he might not only end the man's career, he could possibly end the man's life.

DeBeers positioned Carabello for the extremely dangerous move. Crowd popped as Tom Zenk, in his ring gear, charged down the face aisle and hit the ring, came up behind DeBeers and blasted DeBeers with a forearm smash to the back. DeBeers lost his grip on Carabello and Carabello went down helplessly to the mat. Zenk spun DeBeers around and laid into the Colonel with a series of head shots, whipped DeBeers into the ropes and blasted DeBeers coming off with a big clothesline. DeBeers crashed to the mat as most in the crowd popped. A stunned DeBeers made it to his feet and Zenk hit him with a running clothesline. DeBeers back down. Zenk went over and grabbed the ring bell as a shaky DeBeers made it slowly to his feet. DeBeers saw Zenk with the ring bell and the Colonel started to back/beg off as Zenk slowly moved in. DeBeers backed into the corner. Zenk looked to the crowd for approval and got it and Zenk went to hit DeBeers over the head with the ring bell but DeBeers lunged out of the way and the bell slammed into the top turnbuckle. DeBeers bailed from the ring to the floor and ran/stumbled back up the heel aisle. Zenk left the ring, bell still in hand, dropped to the floor and watched DeBeers vanish into the back.

Nelson then intro'd comments from Zenk.

VIDEO:

In-Studio: Tom Zenk was standing in the AWA interview area in street clothes with mic in hand.

Zenk: Col. DeBeers! I told you what was going to happen to you if you kept on taking advantage of wrestlers after you had already defeated them!

Your actions could not go without a response!

And to try and face-first piledrive a man into the ring bell! You could have maimed Gino Carabello...or worse...if I, or someone else, didn't come out there and put a stop to it!

There are a lot of bad guys in this sport!

But Col. DeBeers, you're not only bad, you're also evil! Only an evil man would try to crush a man's face into a piece of solid steel! And evil must never be allowed to go unchallenged!

Now the Col. knows! If he tries to seriously harm someone else who is not in a position to fight back...he'd better look over his shoulder...because I will be there to make sure it doesn't happen!

Nelson then intro'd comments from DeBeers.

In-Studio:

Col. DeBeers was in his camo military attire and beret with mic in hand.

DeBeers: One thing no has ever accused Tom Zenk of is being very bright.

This...is a man who pumps himself full of chemicals to get the look he wants.

Look up the word 'narcissist' and you'll see Zenk's picture.

But, all that aside, Mr. Zenk needs to know that he just made the worst mistake of his entire career.

You don't mess with the Colonel without there being some sort of blowback!

And Tom Zenk is gonna wish he'd never stuck his nose in my business!

You've got my attention, Zenk! And for you...it's not the kind of attention you're gonna like!

See you around...you synthetic freak!

Split-screen pic aired of Manny Fernandez and Don Muraco with the caption: THE MAIN EVENT...NEXT!

Commercials: Wienerschnitzel -

Back from commercials:

TV MAIN EVENT: Don Muraco vs. Manny Fernandez

Good back-and-forth match between these two solid, experienced hands in the ring.

Match was more a slugfest than actual exchange of holds.

End of the match saw Fernandez on the offensive. Fernandez worked over Muraco. Fernandez whipped Muraco into the ropes and looked to catch Muraco coming off with a clothesline but Muraco ducked the move and came back and dropped Fernandez with a clothesline of his own. Muraco regained his bearings as Fernandez got to his feet. Fernandez charged at Muraco and Muraco caught Fernandez, hoisted Fernandez up on his shoulder, back into the corner and charged out and blasted Fernandez with a running powerslam. Muraco for the cover. 1...2...thr... Fernandez barely got a shoulder up. Muraco popped the downed Fernandez with a head shot, snapped Fernandez up and went to hit Fernandez with a suplex but Fernandez twice blocked the move and suplexed Muraco. Both men down. Ref started the 10-count. Fernandez stirred and started crawling towards the ropes. Muraco to his feet, went over and grabbed Fernandez's foot. Fernandez turned over on his back and was able to kick Muraco in the gut with his free foot. Muraco lost his grip on Fernandez and Muraco crashed to the mat. Fernandez, still feeling the effects of Muraco's previous offensive, crawled over to the ropes and got up and started to leave the ring through the top and middle rope. Muraco up and he went over to grab Fernandez but the ref intercepted Muraco and ordered him to stand back. As Muraco was distracted having words with the ref, Fernandez climbed out on the apron facing the crowd. Fernandez reached down into the front of his tights and brandished a foreign object that was clearly visible in his right hand. Muraco had enough and ignored the ref and came up behind Fernandez and reached over the top rope and grabbed Fernandez and went to belly-to-back suplex Fernandez into the ring. As Muraco hoisted Fernandez up for the move, Fernandez caught Muraco with a foreign object shot to the face. Muraco crumpled to the mat and lost his grip on Fernandez. Both men briefly down and Fernandez crawled over and covered Muraco while concealing the object by his right leg out of view of the ref. 1...2...3! Ref called for the bell as the crowd booed.

As the ref checked on the downed Muraco, Fernandez got to his feet and dropped the object in the back of his tights.

Ref up and raised Fernandez'a hand in victory to more boos. Muraco slowly recovering in the ring as Fernandez arrogantly strutted around.

Crowd popped as Wahoo McDaniel, still in his ring duds, made his way down the face aisle and climbed into the ring. Wahoo started talking to the ref. Fernandez turned and saw Wahoo and went over and the pair engaged in a heated exchange as the ref tried to restore order.

Wahoo gestured and told the ref that Fernandez used a foreign object on Muraco to win the match which Fernandez vehemently denied. Wahoo and Fernandez had more heated words with each other and then Fernandez shoved Wahoo and Wahoo returned the favor. Fernandez turned away from Wahoo and the ref and Wahoo came up behind Fernandez, reached into the back of Fernandez's tights and brandished the foreign object. Fernandez pissed and still trying to deny that he used an object to beat Muraco. Muraco recovering in the ring.

Fernandez picked up on a mic:

Fernandez: Wahoo planted that thing on me! You know those Indians!

Wahoo wanted to go after Fernandez but the ref again stepped in and kept the pair at bay. Ref ordered Wahoo to leave the ring. After a brief but tense stand-off, Wahoo finally left the ring. Larry Nelson was already standing at ringside and the ref said something to Nelson.

Nelson: The referee has ordered the match to continue!

Crowd cheered.

Muraco to his feet.

Fernandez had a few words with the ref and the ref then called for the bell to re-start thee match.

Fernandez turned and walked right into a small package from Muraco for the pin. 1...2...3! Crowd popped as the ref called for the bell.

An irate Fernandez popped to his feet as the ref raised Muraco's hand in victory. Wahoo stood stoically at ringside as a pissed Fernandez raged against him from the ring.

WINNER: Muraco - Pinfall - TIME: 13:09*

END OF PROGRAM:

(* Match edited due to TV time constraints.)

DARK MATCHES

AWA WORLD TITLE: Sgt. Slaughter (WC) def. Larry Zbysko via submission with the Cobra Clutch - TIME: 18:41

AWA WOMEN'S WORLD TITLE: Wendi Richter (WC) def. Magnificent Mimi via pinfall when Richter rolled through a crossbody from Mimi - TIME: 10:04

Akio Sato def. Greg Gagne via pinfall with a kneedrop to the chest off the top rope - TIME: 6:13

TV Taping News & Notes

Paid Attendance: 2,401

Comps given out: 488

Comps used: 237

Total Attendance: 2,638

Showboat Sports Pavilion Capacity: 5,500

 

[the autumn wind]

AWA LIVEWIRE

BREAKING NEWS!

Greg Valentine to meet with Verne Gagne about possibly joining the AWA.

Valentine has been unhappy with the way he's been used in the WWF the last couple of years and seeks a new start elsewhere.

The meeting is set to take place at AWA headquarters in St. Louis Park, MN, when AWA personnel return from Las Vegas and their most recent round of ESPN TV tapings.

In other AWA news...

It's been reported that Verne Gagne will be talking with Winnipeg Jets owner Barry Shenkarow in the near future about selling the promotion to the wealthy businessman.

Sam Houston has agreed to come in. Look for him on house shows and TV very soon.

A new title is said to be in the works. The question is will it replace the dormant TV Title or will the TV Title brought back and the new title be another additional belt and not a replacement?

 

[the autumn wind]

SPRING 1989

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

Greg Valentine was sitting patiently in the waiting area at AWA headquarters. He arrived 20 minutes early for his meeting with Verne Gagne.
Valentine was once one of the biggest stars in the business and one of its best heels.

He has quite the impressive resume' that features numerous championships, the most well-known being a three-time NWA U.S. Champion, WWF Intercontinental Champion and WWF World Tag Team Champion with Brutus Beefcake.

He was also involved in one of the most famous feuds of the '80s with Roddy Piper. The feud culminated in their legendary Dog Collar Match at Starrcade '83.

But all that was in the past...

Greg Valentine was now looking for a fresh start. And being in his late 30's in 1989, he knew the clock was ticking on his chance to become a major player once again.

After waiting a few more minutes, Verne Gagne emerged from his office.

Verne: Hello, Greg.

Greg stood up as Verne walked towards him and extended his hand. Greg responded in kind and the two shook hands.

Valentine: Good to see you, Verne.

Verne: Would you like something to drink before we go into my office?

Valentine: No, thanks. Drank a cup of coffee when I arrived here.

The pair made their way into Verne's office and Verne gestured for Greg to have a seat.

Valentine: Thank you.

Valentine sat down and Verne sat down behind his desk across from Greg.

Valentine: Nice weather you guys are having right now.

Verne: I flew you up just in time. This is when the weather really gets nice up here. Looking to move to Minneapolis?

The pair chuckled.

Valentine: I'll stick with Florida.

Verne: Let's get down to business, shall we?

Do you have any questions right now?

Valentine: Not yet. I'm sure I'll have some as we talk.

Verne: Well, Greg, as you know, the AWA is not doing that great right now.

Valentine: I've heard about it. I hope if I sign here that I can help boost business some.

Verne: My son Greg told me that he heard you were interested in leaving the WWF and moving on.

Valentine: That's right. The last couple of years I've just felt I'm spinning my wheels there. I had a good run in the WWF, but it seemed like time for a change.

Verne: You haven't firmly chosen a place you'd like to go?

Valentine: No, sir. I guess you could say I'm shopping around at the moment.

Verne: We'd love to have you here in the AWA, Greg. I think you'd be a positive addition who could help us start righting the ship.

Also, we just signed Sam Houston.

Valentine: Heard about Sam signing. He's a good worker and a good guy.

I'd like to work for you. There's some good veteran and young talent in this company. It seems that you just need to catch some lightning in a bottle for things to start turning around.

I think putting the World Title on Bob (Remus) was a good idea. He's over and has proven in the past that he can draw big money.

Verne: That's why I made the decision to put the belt on him. Hoping he can spark an uptick in business.

Valentine: Give him a fresh heel opponent and it may help with moving tickets.

Verne: Are you saying you're just the heel to face Bob and get a turnaround started?

The two shared a laugh.

Valentine: Might not be a bad idea, Verne. It would be a fresh program in the AWA.

Verne: I like the idea of the match-up, Greg. I really do. Of course, if we went in that direction, we'd have to build you up. Have you win some TV and house show squashes and then put you in a program with another one of our top faces. You go over them and then we set up an angle that lights the fuse and fuels the appetite of the fans to see you take on Sarge.

Valentine: Have to say I like it. Would really like to work with Bob. Think we could make some magic happen in that ring and tell a helluva story.

Verne: I can see it playing out in my mind. This might be something that could help us jumpstart renewed interest in the AWA among the fans.

Valentine: I'd like to be on board for that effort. Sounds like a real challenge and I like a challenge.

Also, there's something I wanted to ask you about.
Verne: What's that?

Valentine: I heard you're looking into possibly selling the AWA. Is that true?

Verne: It's not set in stone. But it is something being explored at this time.

Valentine: And if you sell to a new owner, then things will be shaken up I assume?

Verne: I'm sure a new owner would change some things, yes.

If you're asking if I knew who they'd keep and who they'd let go, no, I don't know what would happen.

If I sell, then everything's out of my hands.

But as things stand right now, I'm still the owner for the foreseeable future and even if the promotion is sold a transitional period would have to take place and that would take some time.

Valentine nodded in agreement.

Verne: Are there any other questions you'd like to ask me?

Valentine: I did want to talk about money with you.

Verne: OK. What do you want to know?

Valentine: From what I understand, the number of house shows has dwindled considerably over the last year or so and ticket sales are way down.

Verne: That's no secret.

Valentine: I would be looking for a guaranteed money deal of some sort.

Verne: What kind of deal?

Valentine: Since the wrestlers are paid out of a percentage of the night's take for house shows, I'd be looking for a guarantee to do TVs.

Verne: What kind of guarantee?

Valentine: $600 for the ESPN TVs and $400 for the syndicated TVs.

Verne winced.

Verne: I don't know about that, Greg. We're really tight money-wise right now. That's $12 grand for a year.

Valentine: I'm asking for this guarantee because the payouts from house shows here are obviously not what they used to be because of the decline in interest.

I need to know I'll have something guaranteed to fall back on if house shows payouts are really low.

I want to be here, Verne. I think I can bring something to the table and help the AWA.

Verne thought for a moment.

Verne: How about this. $250 for each of the TVs each month? That's a guarantee of $6000 a year.

Valentine gently shook his head 'no'.

Valentine: Is $12,000 really that much to pay?

Verne: For us...guaranteed...right now it is.

A tense silence filled the room.

Valentine: How does this sound? $7200 for the TVs, that's $600 a month, and a guaranteed base of $250 per house show appearance.

Verne: So, $250 guaranteed on the houses and that goes higher if a certain monetary threshold is reached on a given show?

Valentine: That's right. We can work out the details a little later on where that monetary bar is on the house shows.

Verne exhaled.

Verne: I want you in the AWA, Greg. I really do. But I just don't know if I can cut that kind of a deal at this time.

Valentine rubbed his chin and contemplated the matter.

Valentine: I've gotta stick to my guns, Verne.

Verne: So, you won't budge on your demand?

Valentine: $600 a month guaranteed for the TVs and a $250 minimum guarantee per house show appearance.

Silence as Verne thought about it a little more.

Verne: I'm gonna have to talk to some people about this and get back to you.

Valentine nodded in agreement.

Valentine: OK. I hope you'll seriously consider bringing me in. I've still got plenty of gas left in the tank and think I could help you guys.

The two men stood up and Verne walked Greg to the door.

The two shook hands.

Verne: You'll be hearing from me, soon, Greg, with my decision.

Valentine: Looking forward to it, Verne.

Verne: You take care.

Jessica, call Greg a cab, please.

Jessica: Right on it.

Verne: Goodbye for now, Greg.

Valentine: Goodbye, Verne.

Verne closed the office door behind him.

Greg gathered himself and headed for the lobby to wait for his cab to take him back to his motel.

TO BE CONTINUED...

 

[the autumn wind]

SPRING 1989

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

Later that day after meeting with Greg Valentine, Verne Gagne sat in the TV production studio with producer Al Derusha, Wally Karbo and son Greg.

Wally: How did the meeting with Valentine go, Verne?

Verne: He wants guaranteed money.

Greg: How much?

Verne: He wants $600 a month to do TVs and a guaranteed minimum of $250 per house show appearance.

Greg: I don't know if we can do a guarantee like that right now.

Not even Sarge, Zbysko, Wahoo, Manny, Muraco or anyone else on the roster is working on any kind of guaranteed money.

Verne: I know. And if we gave Valentine what he wanted, then the others would eventually find out and want some sort of guarantee, too.

Wally: He'd still make more than the guarantee he wants if he just came to work for us even in the shape we're in.

Verne: But he won't budge on the guarantee. He wants that to fall back on just in case. He won't budge without it.

Greg: I say don't sign him, then.

Al: Have you talked with David Schultz yet?

Verne: No. I've been hesitant to give him a call because of the concerns some have that he could possibly be a legal liability if he blows his cork.

Greg: I'm one of those who would be very concerned if you brought him back, dad.

We're on shaky ground right now. He might be the final nail in the coffin if he pulls another Stossel or something like that. We can't afford the liability he brings with him.

Al: You're stuck between a rock and a hard place here.

Valentine or Schultz? Who do you choose?

Verne: As it stands right now, I'd say neither.

But I am going to call Schultz and see if he might be interested in coming back and what it would take to get him here.

Greg: You're playing with fire. Don't get burned.

Wally: Has house show attendance gone up since Sarge won the belt?

Verne: Some houses have seen a small bump in attendance while others have remained steady and a few continue to decline. Also had to cancel some shows.

Al: Verne, Schultz might be the way to go here.

Greg shook his head 'no'.

Greg: It would be better to take a chance on Valentine's guarantee and all if you're going to choose one.

Verne rubbed his hands together and contemplated the situation.

Verne: Schultz is a name that many of our fans remember. Bring him back, we could see some lapsed fans return. He's a natural heel and would be a good foil for Sarge.

Al: It's at a point where you've got to gamble, Verne. You have to take a risk here. You need to make a decision soon. The fans like Sarge. But wrestling the heels on our current roster isn't going to spike ticket sales.

Verne exhaled.

Verne: I know, Al. But what direction do we turn?

Wally: Just think about it calmly and make the decision you think will be best for the company.

Greg: If you're going to choose Valentine or Schultz, just remember that Valentine is a much, much bigger national name and Schultz has been largely forgotten by everyone except hardcore, long-time fans.

Verne: I'll give it some thought and let you guys know my decision in a few days.

Wally: What's going on with the owner of the Winnipeg Jets? Still interested in buying the AWA?

Verne: Talked to Shenkarow for the second time two days ago. He wants to fly Greg and me up to his office in Winnipeg and discuss a possible deal.

Greg: He said he also wants to lay out his vision for the company if he buys it.

Al: Any word on the money being offered?

Verne: Not yet. Guess we'll find out when we go to Winnipeg.

Wally: Lot of moving parts here, Verne. Don't be too hasty on making any kind of a deal to sell the company or sign any new talent.

Verne: Gonna put you on the spot, Wally.

Schultz or Valentine? Who would you take?

Wally: Greg's right that Valentine has a bigger national name.

But here in the upper midwest a lot of the fans remember Schultz fondly and this is where our main fanbase is.

You could really play up Schultz's controversial past and position him as a super volatile heel who's a threat to everyone, including announcers and fans.

Greg: The problem is if he crosses the line and violently shoots on somebody.

Wally: That element of danger could draw more fans, though. People will pay to see if he loses it and goes ballistic.

Greg: In a worked sense, that's fine. But in a real world sense, he strikes one person and we're in big trouble.

Verne: Wally does have a good idea though, son.

Greg: It sounds great. But the potential crossover from work to shoot with this guy...is it worth the headaches?

Verne: I'll give it some more thought. You both make a strong case for your side.

Al: The more I think about it, I say go with Valentine. Run the risk of pissing off the locker room over the guaranteed money thing. This is about drawing money. And nobody is really drawing money who's on our roster right now.

He could be the kind of guy we need to work programs with our top faces. And a World Title program between him and Sarge might draw some good money.

Verne: Might, Al. Might draw money.

Al: It's a risk worth taking as far as I'm concerned.

Verne: Looks like I've got a lot to think about. Let's get back to work.

The meeting broke up and the men went back to doing what they were doing before the meeting.

TO BE CONTINUED...

 

[the autumn wind]

SPRING 1989

VERNE GAGNE'S HOME ON LAKE MINNETONKA

Verne was sitting alone in the den of his home on Lake Minnetonka.

The room was quiet and Verne was reading the Minneapolis Star-Tribune newspaper.

Verne put the sports page down, leaned forward in his seat with elbows on his knees and placed his fingers over his mouth in church steeple-like fashion.

Verne sat in deep thought for several moments and then started thumbing through the Rolodex on the table next to him.

He stopped and looked intently at one of the cards for several seconds and muttered the phone number listed on it under his breath.

He then picked up the phone and dialed the number.

The phone rang three times.

Come on! Pick up! Verne thought to himself.

After the sixth ring the phone was answered.

Woman: Hello.

Verne: Is David there, please?

Woman: Yes, he is. Hold on.

Verne: Thank you.

Verne waited as he heard the woman, most likely David's wife, talk to David in the background.

David can be heard asking: Who is it?

Woman: I do not know.

David: Alright.

David finally ambled over and picked up the phone.

David: David Schultz.

Verne: David. Hi, this is Verne Gagne.

Momentary silence.

David: Is this really you, Verne?

Verne laughed.

Verne: Yes. Yes, it is, David. How have you been?

David: I've been doin' fine. I run a successful bail bonds business here in Connecticut.

Verne: Are you still wrestling at all?

David: Not right now, no.

Verne: Would you like to step back into the ring again in the AWA?

Pregnant pause.

David: You want me to come back?

Verne: Love to have you. You'd be welcomed back with open arms.

David: I know your promotion is not doing too good right now.

Verne: That's right. We've hit hard times the last couple of years, unfortunately.

That's why I was hoping you'd consider coming back. We'd position you as our top heel immediately.

I think you could help spark a business turnaround.

David: Are you talking with anybody else about coming in?

Verne: We recently signed Sam Houston. He's set to debut at the next TV tapings in Vegas.

David: Anybody else?

Verne: I am talking with someone else, yes. But you're my number one target, David.

David: I am, huh? Who's the other wrestler you're talkin' to?

Verne: It's Greg Valentine.

David: Valentine... Are you feedin' him the same line you're feedin' me right now?

Verne: We've been talking. And our discussions have been different.

David: How? How the hell are they different, Verne?!

Verne: I'm looking for a top heel, David. You are the guy at the top of our wish list. Valentine is also on that list but he's not number one.

David: I bet you said the same thing to him.

Verne: David...

David: What did you offer him?

Verne: Offer him?! Uh, that's between Valentine and me.

David: OK, without getting specific, did you offer him some kind of deal?

Verne: There might be a deal on the table.

David: Might?! There either is a deal or not, Verne! Don't give me that 'might' s-hit!

Verne (doing everything in his power to remain calm): David, as I said, you are the main guy we want. Everybody else lines up behind you.

Long pause...

David: I got a question.

Verne: What is it?

David: I heard that Jerry Lawler didn't get paid for his pay-per-view match with Kerry Von Erich late last year. Is that true?!

Verne: Look...David...

David: Can't you give me a straight answer, Verne! Did you fail to pay Jerry Lawler for the match with Von Erich?

Pause...

David: Hello...

Verne: I'm still here.

Right now money is tight. But all the proper payouts will be forthcoming.

David: So, you admit you stiffed Lawler, huh?! Haven't talked to Jerry in a while. Maybe I'll give him a call.

And you're a wrestling promoter, Verne! You guys lie to the boys all the time!

Verne: Just think about it, David. We want you back in the AWA and I promise you'll be compensated fairly.

David: Fairly?! Ha! Fairly according to what the promoter thinks is fair?! I've heard that song before!

Verne: I can only give you my word that you'll be paid if you come back to work for us. Think about it for a couple days and I'll call you back.

David: I'll think about it, Verne. But I ain't guaranteein' nothin'. Right now, the odds are better than 50/50 I'll say no. But give me a couple of days.

Verne: Thank you, David. That's all I wanted to hear.

David: Talk to you later.

Verne: Goodbye, David.

David: Yeah.

Schultz hung up the phone.

Verne hung up and sat in his den contemplating his next move in this game of human chess known as the wrestling business.

TO BE CONTINUED...

 

[the autumn wind]

SPRING 1989

VERNE GAGNE'S HOME ON LAKE MINNETONKA

Verne was sitting alone in the den of his home on Lake Minnetonka.

The room was quiet and Verne was reading the Minneapolis Star-Tribune newspaper.

Verne put the sports page down, leaned forward in his seat with elbows on his knees and placed his fingers over his mouth in church steeple-like fashion.

Verne sat in deep thought for several moments and then started thumbing through the Rolodex on the table next to him.

He stopped and looked intently at one of the cards for several seconds and muttered the phone number listed on it under his breath.

He then picked up the phone and dialed the number.

The phone rang three times.

Come on! Pick up! Verne thought to himself.

After the sixth ring the phone was answered.

Woman: Hello.

Verne: Is David there, please?

Woman: Yes, he is. Hold on.

Verne: Thank you.

Verne waited as he heard the woman, most likely David's wife, talk to David in the background.

David can be heard asking: Who is it?

Woman: I do not know.

David: Alright.

David finally ambled over and picked up the phone.

David: David Schultz.

Verne: David. Hi, this is Verne Gagne.

Momentary silence.

David: Is this really you, Verne?

Verne laughed.

Verne: Yes. Yes, it is, David. How have you been?

David: I've been doin' fine. I run a successful bail bonds business here in Connecticut.

Verne: Are you still wrestling at all?

David: Not right now, no.

Verne: Would you like to step back into the ring again in the AWA?

Pregnant pause.

David: You want me to come back?

Verne: Love to have you. You'd be welcomed back with open arms.

David: I know your promotion is not doing too good right now.

Verne: That's right. We've hit hard times the last couple of years, unfortunately.

That's why I was hoping you'd consider coming back. We'd position you as our top heel immediately.

I think you could help spark a business turnaround.

David: Are you talking with anybody else about coming in?

Verne: We recently signed Sam Houston. He's set to debut at the next TV tapings in Vegas.

David: Anybody else?

Verne: I am talking with someone else, yes. But you're my number one target, David.

David: I am, huh? Who's the other wrestler you're talkin' to?

Verne: It's Greg Valentine.

David: Valentine... Are you feedin' him the same line you're feedin' me right now?

Verne: We've been talking. And our discussions have been different.

David: How? How the hell are they different, Verne?!

Verne: I'm looking for a top heel, David. You are the guy at the top of our wish list. Valentine is also on that list but he's not number one.

David: I bet you said the same thing to him.

Verne: David...

David: What did you offer him?

Verne: Offer him?! Uh, that's between Valentine and me.

David: OK, without getting specific, did you offer him some kind of deal?

Verne: There might be a deal on the table.

David: Might?! There either is a deal or not, Verne! Don't give me that 'might' s-hit!

Verne (doing everything in his power to remain calm): David, as I said, you are the main guy we want. Everybody else lines up behind you.

Long pause...

David: I got a question.

Verne: What is it?

David: I heard that Jerry Lawler didn't get paid for his pay-per-view match with Kerry Von Erich late last year. Is that true?!

Verne: Look...David...

David: Can't you give me a straight answer, Verne! Did you fail to pay Jerry Lawler for the match with Von Erich?

Pause...

David: Hello...

Verne: I'm still here.

Right now money is tight. But all the proper payouts will be forthcoming.

David: So, you admit you stiffed Lawler, huh?! Haven't talked to Jerry in a while. Maybe I'll give him a call.

And you're a wrestling promoter, Verne! You guys lie to the boys all the time!

Verne: Just think about it, David. We want you back in the AWA and I promise you'll be compensated fairly.

David: Fairly?! Ha! Fairly according to what the promoter thinks is fair?! I've heard that song before!

Verne: I can only give you my word that you'll be paid if you come back to work for us. Think about it for a couple days and I'll call you back.

David: I'll think about it, Verne. But I ain't guaranteein' nothin'. Right now, the odds are better than 50/50 I'll say no. But give me a couple of days.

Verne: Thank you, David. That's all I wanted to hear.

David: Talk to you later.

Verne: Goodbye, David.

David: Yeah.

Schultz hung up the phone.

Verne hung up and sat in his den contemplating his next move in this game of human chess known as the wrestling business.

TO BE CONTINUED...

 

[the autumn wind]

SPRING 1989

VERNE GAGNE'S HOUSE ON LAKE MINNETONKA

Verne Gagne's bags were packed and he was about to set out with son Greg for Stevens Point, WI for the night's tapings of All-Star Wrestling, the AWA's syndicated show. The drive would take roughly three-and-a-half hours.

But, before Verne left, he had one last order of business to take care of at home.

It had been two days since he'd talked with David Schultz about a possible return. Verne hoped David coming back would help re-ignite fan interest in the sinking promotional ship known as the AWA.

Today was decision day for Schultz.

Verne sat in his seat in the den, looked briefly at the Rolodex card with Schultz's info on it, picked up the phone and dialed the number.

It took four rings before there was an answer.

David: David Schultz.

Verne: David, this is Verne.

David: Called for an answer, huh?

Verne: Yes.

David: Before I give you that answer I have to ask you something.

Verne: OK.

David: How did you get my number? Other than two days ago, I haven't talked to you since I left the AWA for the WWF.

Verne: A mutual acquaintance gave it to me not long after you left us. I've kept it on file ever since. Never knew if I was gonna need it.

David: Well, I talked with Jerry Lawler yesterday. Hadn't talked with him in quite a long time.

Verne: Lawler. Uh-huh.

David: He said you've never paid him for his match with Kerry Von Erich at that SuperClash event. I mean, that was you main event, man.

Verne: I told you in our last call that payouts would be forthcoming.

Did he say anything else to you that you need to let me know about?

David: He told me that I shouldn't go back to work for you. He thinks you'll stiff me, too.

Verne: You'll be financially taken care of, David, if you return to the AWA.

And if you don't think you're being treated fairly you can leave at any time.

David: I left the AWA when I wanted the last time.

Verne: You mean you didn't give me notice. You just disappeared one day.

Uneasy silence...

David: Well, here's what Lawler suggested I do if I agreed to come back and work for you.

Verne (tightening his grip on the phone): Let me hear it.

David: He figures if Valentine signs he's gonna get some kind of guarantee.

He told me I should ask for a signing bonus.

Verne: A signing bonus?

David: Yep.

Verne: I don't give signing bonuses.

David: You will now if you want me to come back and lace 'em up again.

If Verne was a cartoon character, he'd have steam coming out of his ears right now.

David: Verne...

Verne: What are we looking at for a bonus?

David: $25 grand.

Verne's eyes almost popped out of his head.

Verne: $25 thousand?! There's no way I can afford that!

David: Take it or leave it, Verne.

Verne: Could it be paid in installments?

David: All of it up front. You do that...then I'll come back and work for ya.

Verne: A thousand a month over 25 months plus whatever you make at house shows and TVs.

David: Up front. That's the bottom line.

Silence...

David: I've got a bail bonds business to run. You have an answer?

Verne: Yes. I've got a wrestling company to run and TVs to do later tonight in Wisconsin. I gotta get going.

David: Just think about it...

Verne: I have and here's my answer.

David: What is it?

Click.

David: Hello. Verne? Are you there?

Nothing.

Schultz hung up the phone. It looks like he had his answer.

At least for now...

TO BE CONTINUED...

 

[the autumn wind]

SPRING 1989

ON THE ROAD TO STEVENS POINT, WI

Verne and Greg Gagne were an hour into their 3+ hour drive to Stevens Point, WI, for the night's syndicated All-Star Wrestling syndicated TV tapings.

It was a very quiet ride.

Verne had hardly said a word since they left his home on Lake Minnetonka.

He seemed worried about something.

Greg, doing the driving, broke the silence.

Greg: Something wrong, dad?

Verne: You could say that.

Greg: Does it have to do with that phone call just before we left the house?

Verne: Yes.

Greg: Were you talking to David Schultz?

Verne: Yeah.

Greg: What did he say?

Verne: He said he'll only return to the AWA if I give him a $25,000 dollar signing bonus.

Greg: A signing bonus?! $25,000?!

You can't do that, dad! Not in our current financial situation!

How does he want the bonus paid?!

Verne: All of it up front.

Greg: No! Not a chance!

Greg took a moment to collect himself.

Greg: If you give Schultz that bonus, the other boys will hear about it and it will upset the locker room.

We'd have to give our other big stars some of that action as well. They would demand it and you know there would be no way to keep this a secret from them.

Verne (sighs): I know.

But I just believe that Schultz would be the best choice to try and renew interest in our promotion.

Greg: Not with that extortion-like demand.

What did you tell him?

Verne: I offered to pay him in installments.

Greg: And he turned you down?

Verne: Turned me down flat.

Greg: Valentine wants a guarantee, too. But it's not even in the same ballpark as Schultz's demand.

If you're going to choose between Valentine and Schultz...take Valentine.

At least the rest of the boys wouldn't get as pissed when they found out what his guarantee was.

Verne looked out his passenger's side window at the passing scenery for a moment.

Verne: I abruptly hung up on Schultz during our conversation. At that moment I was done with him.

But now, thinking about it some more, I want to try and reach some sort of compromise deal with him.

Greg shook his head in disbelief.

Greg: Just go with Valentine, dad. Please.

Verne: Look, I've heard ticket sales have been really slow for tonight's TVs. We're doing half houses at the Showboat in Vegas.

Might have to risk going further into the red, take it on the chin, and sign Schultz.

Greg: Are you even listening to me?

Dad, one guy, unless his last name is Hogan, is not going to turn around our sinking business.

Schultz hasn't even been a national name since early '85. A lot of fans who've come along since then have no idea who he even is.

Verne: But, we still have a core audience who knows who he is.

Greg: A shrinking core audience.

Verne glared over at Greg for a few seconds.

Greg looked over at his dad.

Greg: What? Are you gonna tell me I'm wrong here?

Verne: It may be getting smaller. But it's getting smaller slowly.

Greg: But the grim reality is it's a dwindling base.

Verne: I believe that Schultz is the guy to bring in at this time if we book him properly.

We'd need to play up what he did to that Stossel guy on 20/20 in '84. He needs to be unpredictable.

Schultz could pull this off. Valentine could not.

Greg: They're completely different. But both are good heels.

Valentine could be booked as a bone breaker like he was in the past. Break a top faces leg in the figure 4. It would generate a lot of heat.

Verne: I think Schultz would generate a lot more heat.

And if we want to try and increase ticket sales to a meaningful level Schultz tops Valentine in my book.

Greg briefly rubbed his forehead with his free hand.

Greg: Why don't you do this.

Take a few days to think things over. There might be better options out there that we're just not looking at right now.

Verne was silent for a moment.

Verne: I'll give it some more thought, son.

Call around and see who else might be out there that could possibly help us.

Greg: I will, dad.

Verne: I can't believe it's come to this for the AWA.

But we've got TVs to do. Let's give 'em a show tonight.

Verne turned his head and looked out the window as silence once again settled in. The pair continued their journey to Stevens Point. The rest of the trip was largely quiet.

TO BE CONTINUED...

 

[the autumn wind]

AWA ALL-STAR WRESTLING SYNDICATED TAPING RESULTS - STEVENS POINT, WI - QUANDT FIELD HOUSE - UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-STEVENS POINT

Since I'm not sure how they handled the taping schedules back then, I'm just going to pretend the syndicated tapings run a week behind the Showboat tapings. Example: The second week Showboat taping would air the same week the first syndicated taping would air, etc.

(* It was announced before the show that the Destruction Crew had won the World Tag Team Titles a few days earlier at the ESPN tapings in Vegas.)

1st Taping

In-Studio - Larry Nelson welcomed viewers to All-Star Wrestling and then ran down the program:

TV MAIN EVENT! Re-Match from a few weeks ago on ASW!
Greg Gagne vs. Akio Sato
(Result from their previous encounter: Double Count Out)

PLUS!

A look back at the Destruction Crew winning the AWA World Tag Team Titles and an interview with the new champs

An interview with new AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter

ALSO IN ACTON!

Jonnie Stewart

The Guerrero Bros.

AND MORE!

Nelson then sent it to Stevens Point, WI.

Tommy Jammer won a squash over Russell Sapp via pinfall with a diving splash - TIME: 3:08

In-Studio Promo: Greg Gagne talked about the re-match with Akio Sato.

Commercials/Market-specific promos for shows in upcoming towns

Back from commercials:

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd video of the Destruction Crew winning the AWA World Tag Team Titles from Brad Rheingans and Greg Gagne (Gagne was subbing for the injured Ken Patera.)

VIDEO:

Greg moved in and caught Bloom with a side kick. Bloom hurting. Greg whipped Bloom into the ropes and looked to catch Bloom coming off with another dropkick but Bloom grabbed the top rope and held on and Greg crashed to the mat. Bloom briefly regained his bearings as Greg made it up to his feet. Bloom moved in and caught Greg with a kick to the gut. Greg doubled over and fell back against the ropes. Bloom leaned Greg back across the top rope and popped Greg with a brutal, deliberate series of forearms to the chest. Bloom whipped Greg into the ropes and looked to catch Greg coming off with a backdrop but Greg leapfrogged Bloom, spun around and ran Bloom into the ropes and rolled Bloom up for the pin. 1...2... Bloom kicked out. Bloom up and swung wildly at Greg and missed and Greg caught Bloom from behind in the sleeper. Crowd popping. Bloom trying to escape the hold. Bloom started to fade. Ref raised Bloom's arm twice and it fell harmlessly back to Bloom's side. Enos hit the ring and came up behind Greg and nailed Greg with a forearm smash to the back. Greg lost his grip on the hold. Rheingans hit the ring and started belting Enos with punches that drove Enos into the corner. Ref trying to separate Enos and Rheingans. Greg and Bloom made it to their feet and Greg popped Bloom with another dropkick and Bloom crashed to the mat and rolled out on the apron to regain his bearings. Greg looked over and the ref was now tangled up with Rheingans and Enos in the corner. Greg went and tried to help the ref. While that was going on, Dallas Page charged down to ringside and handed Bloom his cane. Bloom climbed back into the ring and held the cane at the ready. Greg was unable to free the ref from the scrum. Greg turned and walked right into a cane shot to the side of the head from Bloom. Greg crumpled to the mat. Bloom tossed the cane back to DDP and then quickly covered Greg. Ref freed himself from the corner entanglement and dropped to make the count. 1... Rheingans got the upper hand on Enos and went to break up the pin try but Enos grabbed Rheingans by the back of the tights and pulled him back. ...2...3! Ref called for the bell as the crowd booed.Enos released Rheingans. Bloom up and Enos went over and the two were ecstatic. Rheingans checked on the still down Greg, who was laying on the mat and holding the side of his head.

Larry Nelson on the apron with mic and titles in hand. Ref went over and talked off-mic with Nelson.

Ref took the titles and handed them to Bloom and Enos. The two men hugged and celebrated in the ring.

Nelson: In a time of 17 minutes, 34 seconds, your winners, and NEW AWA World Tag Team Champions...The Destruction Crew!

Nelson then intro'd comments from the new champs.

VIDEO:

Bloom and Enos were wearing hard hats, sunglasses, white t-shirts, reflective orange and yellow construction vests and blue jeans. Each men had his title draped over his left shoulder and each was holding a mic with their free hand.

Bloom: Take a good long look at us! We, the Destruction Crew, are your new World Tag Team Champions!

Greg Gagne and Brad Rheingans, you two put up a helluva fight! But on this particular night in Vegas, Lady Luck was not on your side! It was our slot machine that hit the three 7's!

And make no mistake, people, we earned these belts! We did it all on our own because we are the best tag team in the sport today!

Tell 'em, Mike!

Enos: The critics are already coming out of the woodwork saying we don't deserve to be the World Tag Team Champions! They say we stole these belts!

Well, guess what???!!! We stole nothing!

Bloom laughed loudly and nodded in agreement.

Enos: We won these belts because of our great wrestling skill! As Wayne just pointed out...we're the best tag team the sport has to offer! And when you're the best, then you're gonna eventually hold these titles!

So, all you fans and wrestlers out there who don't think we deserve to be the champs, well, go cry in your beers! The Destruction Crew are the new top dogs in the AWA!

Bloom: That's right, my brother in destruction!

To all you potential challengers out there, bring...it...on!

Enos laughed.

Bloom: We don't care who it is! Brad Rhengans and Greg Gagne! Brad Rheingans and Ken Patera! Top Guns! Guerrero Brothers! We don't care!

Try as you guys might...these belts are gonna remain firmly in the Destruction Crew's possession for a long time to come!

Vid aired hyping Jonnie Stewart wrestling next!

Commercials

Back from commercials:

Jonnie Stewart defeated Vernon Deaton in a squash match via pinfall with his knee to the gut finisher - TIME: 2:38

Post-Match Interview Highlight at ringside w/ announcer Lee Marshall:

Stewart: You are looking in the eyes of the wrestler who is going to usher this sport into the '90s!

There is no one out there who's like Jonnie Stewart! I am the Chosen One!

I am the best and the baddest in this sport today! And the '90s will truly be the Decade of Jonnie Stewart!

That's Jonnie without an 'h'!

In-Studio: Larry Nelson interviewed AWA legend Nick Bockwinkel. Nick talked about the Sarge winning the AWA World Title from Larry Zbysko and how happy he was to see that happen. Talked about the Destruction Crew winning the AWA World Tag Team Titles and said he thought they'd be a tough team to dethrone. Also, talked about some of the young talent in the AWA and the state of the promotion.

Video aired saying the Guerrero Bros. see action next!

Commercials/Market-Specific Promos for shows in upcoming towns.

Back from commercials:

Hector and Mando Guerrero won a squash match when they defeated Tom Stone and Barry Horowitz when Mando pinned Stone after a double dropkick - TIME: 3:44

Post-Match Interview at Ringside w/ Lee Marshall: The Guerrero Bros. talked about their years as a tag team down in Mexico and that they were now seeking to make their mark in the 'promised land of America' and challenging the Destruction Crew for the World Tag Team Titles.

Video aired of Sgt. Slaughter defeating Larry Zbysko to win the AWA World Title with the caption: An interview with the new AWA World Champion...NEXT!

Commercials

Back from commercials:

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd video of an interview with Sgt. Slaughter at the Showboat Sports Pavilion after Sarge had won the AWA World Title.

VIDEO:

Larry Nelson was standing in the now empty Showboat Sports Pavilion next to the ring with new World Champ Sgt. Slaughter. Sarge had cleaned up and was now in street clothes and had the World Title cradled in his left arm.

Nelson: Sgt. Slaughter, congratulations on beating Larry Zbysko and becoming the new AWA World Champion.

Sarge: Thank you, Larry. Being the World Champion has been a dream of mine since I started in this sport.

And to beat a scoundrel like Larry Zbysko to become the new World Champion makes the victory that much sweeter.

Nelson: We know that Larry Zbysko, since he's now the former World Champion, has a re-match clause in his contract. And I don't think there's any doubt he's gonna trigger that clause as soon as possible. He loved being the World Champion.

Sarge: This belt was like oxygen for Zbysko! It was his life! Well now that oxygen supply has been removed from him! He's gasping for air!

I know he's gonna come after me! I know how badly he wants this back!

Sarge held up the title.

Sarge: But I'm more than ready to fight him again! He's now in the position of the challenger! And a guy like Zbysko will do whatever he feels he has to do to get what he wants! He'll get his re-match alright! But I'm gonna do everything in my power to keep him from regaining the World Championship! He was a disgrace as champion! I aim to be a champion the people can be proud of!

Nelson: Besides Larry Zbysko, there are some other serious challengers here in the AWA who would love nothing more than to beat you and be where you are right now.

Sarge: The list of challengers here is a long one, Nelson! If I'm gonna be the champion for any length of time, I know that I've got to face all worthy challengers for this belt and I've got to prepare accordingly! But I will be a champion that fights with honor!

I worked long and hard to achieve the goal of becoming the World Champion! There's no way I'll take any challenger, even if it's Jake Milliman, lightly! I feel it's my duty to restore this belt to its former glory after it was tarnished by that rat Zbysko!

Nelson: Sarge, I think I can speak for all the fans out there when I say we wish you the best and hope you have a long World Title reign that does indeed bring honor to that prestigious belt.

Sarge: Character is the defining hallmark of a champion! Whatever your character, that's the type of champion you will be!

Nelson: We know your character is rock solid, Sarge! Best of luck defending the AWA World Title.

Sarge: Thank you.

Nelson: New AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter, everyone! A new era has begun in the AWA!


In-Studio: Larry Nelson added a few comments about Sarge's victory.

Video aired from the previous Gagne-Sato match with the caption: THE RE-MATCH IS NEXT!

Commercials/Market-Specific Promos for shows in upcoming towns

TV MAIN EVENT - RE-MATCH: Greg Gagne vs. Akio Sato

In a hard-fought re-match, Sato and Greg brought their A-games into the battle.

Several exciting near falls and good back-and-forth action with both men controlling the bout for short periods of time.

End of the match saw Sato on the offensive. Sato worked over Greg and then nailed Greg with a side breaker across the knee. Greg laid out. Sato went out on the apron and mounted the top buckle. Sato briefly paused and came off with a flying knee to the chest attempt but Greg rolled out of the way and Sato crashed knee-first into the mat. Crowd (what there was of it) popped for Greg.

Both men down...

Ref began the 10-count. Greg made it to his feet and went out on the apron and slowly climbed to the top buckle as Sato got to his feet. Sato turned and Greg came off with a missle dropkick that connected. Sato crashed to the mat. Greg covered Sato and hooked the leg. 1...2...3! Ref called for the bell. A taxed Greg got to his feet and the ref raised his hand victory.

Greg announced as the winner to the delight of the small crowd,

WINNER: Greg Gagne - Missle Dropkick - 10:24

END PROGRAM

 

[the autumn wind]

AWA ALL-STAR WRESTLING SYNDICATED TAPING RESULTS - STEVENS POINT, WI - QUANDT FIELD HOUSE - UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-STEVENS POINT

I'm still way behind on posting shows. I've decided to go ahead and post the ASW 2nd taping results here. Hopefully will be able to post the 3rd and 4th taping results in one post in the near future.

Since I'm not sure how they handled the taping schedules back then, I'm just going to pretend the syndicated tapings run a week behind the Showboat tapings. Example: The second week Showboat taping would air the same week the first syndicated taping would air, etc.

(* It was announced before the show that the Destruction Crew had won the World Tag Team Titles a few days earlier at the ESPN tapings in Vegas.)

2nd Taping

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

TV MAIN EVENT: Wendi Richter (WC) & Debbie Combs vs. Heidi Lee Morgan & Magnificent Mimi

AWA World Tag Team Champions The Destruction Crew see action

Tom Zenk wrestles

An interview with former AWA World Champion Larry Zbysko

AND MORE!

Nelson then sent it to Stevens Point, WI.

The Top Guns (Ricky Rice & Derrick Dukes) won a squash match over Tommy Lane & Dusty Wolfe via pinfall when Dukes pinned Wolfe after Rice and Dukes hit Wolfe coming off the ropes with a double elbow to the chest - TIME: 4:05

Post-Match Interview at ringside w/ Lee Marshall:

Marshall asked the Guns about their heat with Badd Company. Rice mentioned they've had two matches that have turned into brawls that spilled out into the seating area of the Showboat Sports Pavilion in Vegas. Said nothing's been settled between the two teams and that things will only heat up as they head into the summer months.

As Dukes started to speak, the crowd booed as Dallas Page, manager of Badd Company, came out and confronted the Top Guns at ringside.

Page started to talk but was abruptly cut off when Dukes asked him where Badd Company was. Page said they weren't there but that he had a message from Pat Tanaka and Paul Diamond.

As the Top Guns were locked in on Page and what he had to say, the crowd reacted as Badd Company, in street clothes, came out on the other side of the ring and charged over and jumped the Guns from behind. Tanaka and Diamond pounded away on Rice and Dukes. Tanaka rammed Duke's head into the ring post and Dukes went down face-first on the floor. Diamond was hammering away on Rice. Diamond then drove Rice back-first into the ring apron and Rice crumpled down to the floor. Dukes sat up on his knees and was bleeding. Tanaka got in a few well placed head shots and then grabbed Dukes and threw Dukes into the ring.

DDP handed Diamond his thick black cane as Rice got to his hands and knees on the floor. Diamond sent the cane crashing down across Rice's back a trio of times and Rice went back down on the floor. Diamond tossed the cane back to DDP, stomped Rice and then climbed into the ring and joined Tanaka in putting the boots to the downed Dukes. Dukes in a bad way. Diamond grabbed Dukes by the legs as Tanaka assumed the position. Diamond catapaulted Dukes into Tanaka's arms and Tanaka pulverized Dukes with a DDT. Rice still down on the floor and Dukes down in the ring.

Crowd booed as Tanaka and Diamond looked over the damage they caused. The pair left the ring and dropped to the floor and each man got a couple of kicks in on Rice.

DDP snatched the mic from Lee Marshall as Tanaka and Diamond walked up behind him.

DDP: I was wrong! Looks like my boys are here! My bad!

Crowd popped as face wrestlers came out. DDP quickly tossed the mic back at Marshall and the trio made their way back up the aisle to boos.

Shot of the downed Rice on the floor and the bloody and beaten Dukes in the ring being checked on by the face wrestlers.

Commercials/Market-Specific Promos for upcoming shows.

Back from commercials:

Announcers Lee Marshall and Lord James Blears discussed the violent sneak attack on the Top Guns by Badd Company. Said that Rice and Dukes were helped to the back by some of the other wrestlers.

Then sent it to the ring...

Tom Zenk won a squash match over Sal Bellomo via pinfall with a high dropkick - TIME: 3:17

Post-Match Interview in the ring w/ Lee Marshall:

Zenk talked about his escalating problems with Col. DeBeers and DeBeers taking advantage of wrestlers the pro-apartheid South African mercenary had just defeated.

While Zenk was talking, the Col. came down to the ring in his ring attire. Most of the crowd booed his appearance.

Zenk looked over and saw the Col., who was arrogantly twirling his mustache while glaring at Zenk.

Zenk spoke directly to the Colonel.

Zenk: Col. DeBeers! You're nothing but a coward and a bully! Why don't you step in this ring right now and we'll see if you can manhandle me like you do the wrestlers you've already beaten down!

DeBeers kept glaring up at Zenk in the ring.

Zenk (impatient): Come on, Colonel! Get in here!

DeBeers looked on from the floor a little longer and then climbed up on the apron.

DeBeers glared at Zenk again as Zenk gestured for the Col. to step inside the squared circle. Zenk was ready to fight.

DeBeers then started to slowly step inside the ring.

An angry Zenk lunged over and tried to grab DeBeers but DeBeers proved too slippery and dropped back to the floor before Zenk could snag him.

Zenk over by the ropes yelling for DeBeers to get in the ring and fight like a man. DeBeers once again glaring up at Zenk from the safety of the floor.

DeBeers picked up on a mic.

DeBeers: We'll meet again, Zenk! And it will be on my terms!

Zenk was seething as DeBeers backed up, turned and headed back up the aisle to boos.

Zenk wanted to go after the South African racialist but the ref intercepted him and prevented Zenk from leaving the ring.

Announcers Marshall and Blears talked about the situation between the two really starting to heat up.

In-Studio Promo: Magnificent Mimi and Heidi Lee Morgan talked about their main even tag team match against World Champ Wendi Richter and Debbie Combs.

Mimi and Morgan made it clear that they were gonna be targeting Richter during the match.

Video aired of Larry Zbysko talking with the caption...THE FORMER CHAMP SPEAKS...NEXT!

Commercials

Back from Commercials:

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd a pre-recorded interview with former AWA World Champion Larry Zbysko after Zbysko lost the title to Sgt. Slaughter.

VIDEO:

Nelson: Seated next to me at this time is the former AWA World Champ...

Zbysko interrupted Nelson.

Zbysko: And soon to be again AWA World Champion!

Nelson: Larry Zbysko.

I have to ask you, how have you been these last couple of weeks since losing the title to Sgt. Slaughter.

Zbysko: How have I been, huh?

Zbysko chuckled in disbelief.

Zbysko: Are you kidding me, Nelson?! How have I been?!

I've been miserable! Not being the World Champion anymore stinks to high heaven! But I am gunning for Slaughter and will one day...very soon, I might add...be the AWA World Champion for the second time! Enjoy it while it lasts, Sarge! You can't hold off the 'Living Legend' forever!

Nelson: Before you look to tangle with Sgt. Slaughter again, you've got another pressing issue you're going to be facing very shortly.

Ken Patera will be returning to action in the near future from the injury you caused to his arm with the ring bell.

Zbysko: Let me clarify something, Nelson!

Patera's arm was already injured! I just made the injury worse! He was the man I was supposed to be defending the title against in Vegas a few weeks ago! I was not supposed to be facing Sgt. Slaughter! What I did to Patera was out of a justifiable sense of frustration!

Nelson: Justifiable sense of frustration?! What does that even mean?!

Zbysko: That's for me to know and for you to try and figure out, spudhead!

Nelson shook his head in disbelief.

Zbysko: Patera was who I prepared for that night so Patera was the man I should've faced! He's crying about some injury he sustained on a card a few nights before we arrived in Vegas! For all we know, his injury was a ruse to get out of the match! Either way, once Patera was on the shelf then I should not have had to defend the title against Slaughter because he was not who I prepared for!

Nelson: Are you ready for Patera when he comes back?

Zbysko: The question you need to be asking is if Ken Patera will be ready for me. He brought all this upon himself. And he's gonna suffer for it in spades.

Nelson: Before your title match against Slaughter started you said you were wrestling the match under protest. Has anything come of the protest you lodged with President Stanley Blackburn?

Zbysko: This is the AWA we're talking about here, Nelson! Nothing gets done quickly! I haven't heard a word about my protest challenging the legitimacy of Slaughter winning the match!

Stanley Blackburn moves slower than a box of dead sea turtles! We might get a decision by the '92 Presidential election!

Nelson: Do you think there's a conspiracy against you in the AWA?

Zbysko: Just look at the evidence. I mean it's obvious to anyone who looks. Verne Gagne and his cronies have it in for me. I'm the best thing that ever happened to the AWA and look at how I'm treated.

Nelson: Verne Gagne has it in for you?

Zbysko: Yes. You know why?

Nelson: Please enlighten me.

Zbysko: It's because he's jealous of me! Verne Gagne envies me!

Nelson laughed.

Nelson: Verne Gagne! Jealous of you?! The man was the 10-time AWA World Champion! Are you kidding, Larry?! Jealous?!

Zbysko: Laugh all you want, idiot boy! Verne Gagne knows that I'm the legend here and he's not! He had to find a way to get the World Title off of me and fast! And let's not forget that he had Wahoo McDaniel act as the special referee for the match! Talk about stacking the deck!

Maybe I should sue your hero Verne Gagne for besmirching my good reputation and character! He can't handle the fact that when I'm around he'll always be in my shadow!

Nelson: Well, you are a character and you do have a reputation, even though I wouldn't call it a good one.

Zbysko took off his sunglasses and glared over at Nelson.

Nelson: What?

Zbysko: This interview is over.

Zbysko put on his sunglasses, stood up and walked out of the interview area as Nelson looked on.

Video aired of the Destruction Crew coming to the ring with the caption: The new Tag Team Champions see action...NEXT!

Commercials/Market-Specific Promos for upcoming shows

Back from commercials:

Non-Title Match: The Destruction Crew (WTTC) vs. Brady Boone & Joey Maggs

The new champs made quick work of Boone and Maggs when Enos pinned Maggs after the Wrecking Ball (Road Warriors' Doomsday Device) - TIME: 3:03

Post-Match Interview at ringside w/ Lee Marshall:

The Destruction Crew talked about being the best tag team in the world and that the AWA belts they were holding proved it. Talked about how they're going to have a long run as the champs.

As they were talking, Hector and Mando Guerrero, in their ring attire, came down to ringside and confronted the Crew.

Bloom and Enos weren't happy with the brothers interrupting their interview time and made no bones about it. The champs ordered the brothers to leave.

Hector: Whoa! We just came out here because we wanted to say something to you.

Bloom: Then make it fast and then scram. This is the Destruction Crew's time.

Hector: This is America, the land of...

Bloom: Great! You know where you are. Congratulations.

Hector: This great land is where dreams are fulfilled.

Enos: Dreams are... So what?! Did you come out to give us some American Dream spiel?!

Bloom: Yeah! What's this about, Hector?! Let's hear it!

Hector: Well, me and Mando believe that part of making our dream come true in America would be the chance to wrestle for those AWA Tag Team Titles.

Bloom held his belt up in front of his chest and pointed at it.

Bloom: You... You want a shot at these?!

Mando: Yes. That's exactly what we want.

Bloom: And we're just supposed to say we'll put the titles on the line against you because you ask?!

Mando: We feel it's worth asking for the opportunity, amigo.

Bloom and Enos looked at one another, laughed and shook their heads in disbelief.

Bloom: Getting a tag team title shot isn't some government handout program! I don't know if that was explained to you when you arrived in this country in the trunk of a '57 Chevy!

Enos: You want a shot at these, boys, then you'll have to do it the all-American way! You'll have to earn it!

Bloom: Yeah! Earn it and then we can talk! But you've got a lot of work to do so you might want to get started as soon as possible!

Hector: We Guerreros have a rich, proud wrestling legacy in Mexico.

Bloom: Good for you! But you don't have that wrestling legacy here in the States! You gotta start at the bottom and work your way up the ladder!

Enos: We may see you two down the road somewhere! But until then, how don you say it?! Oh yeah! Adios!

Bloom mockingly waved off the Guerrero brothers.

Crowd cheered when AWA promoter Verne Gagne made his way to ringside.

Marshall: AWA boss Verne Gagne is here.

Welcome, Verne.

Verne: Thank you, Lee.

I've been watching and listening to what's going on out here on a monitor in the back.

And I think that these fans would like to see a match between the champs the Destruction Crew and the Guerrero brothers.

Sparse crowd cheered.

Bloom: They don't deserve a title shot just like that! They need to earn it!

Verne: Lee, I have to say I agree with Bloom here.

Bloom: Good. Glad to see you're on the same page as us.

Enos: Yeah!

Verne: So, it's gonna be the Destruction Crew vs. the Guerrero brothers in a non-title match!

The brothers shook their heads in agreement.

Hector: Verne Gagne, thank you for this opportunity. My brother, Mando, and I will work hard to beat the Destruction Crew to prove we deserve to be in the championship picture.

Both Guerreros shook hands with Verne Gagne.

Marshall: You fans heard it! The Guerrero Brothers vs. the Destruction Crew is coming!

Fans cheered.

Verne went to shake the hands of the champs but they arrogantly blew him off.

Bloom: You had your day in the sun, Verne! Step back and admire what modern day greatness looks like!

Verne shot Bloom a look that said: Really?

Enos: Guerreros, you guys are going down and then me and my brother in destruction can concentrate on more important things!

Bloom: This will be a good tune-up match for us! It will help us prepare for title defenses against worthy opponents!

Hector: We'll see you.

Bloom: Look at the bright side, you'll one day be able to tell your grandkids how you lost to the best tag team in the sport!

Mando: Let's just settle it in the ring.

Enos: It will be settled in the ring, alright! And you guys won't like the end result!

The two teams engaged in a brief staredown and then the Guerreros calmly walked away.

Enos: They'll be walkin' away from us next time with their heads hangin' down after we're finished with 'em!

Bloom nodded strongly in agreement.

In-Studio: Larry Nelson said that the match was set for next week's All-Star Wrestling: The Destruction Crew (WTTC) vs. The Guerrero Bros.

Nelson then intro'd a promo from Wendi Richter (WC) and her tag team partner Debbie Combs.

In-Studio Promo: Richter and Combs talked about their main event match with Mimi and Morgan. Combs said she knows Richter has a big bullseye on her and she'll have the champ's back.

Pic of the AWA logo aired with the caption: LADIES TAG TEAM MAYHEM IS NEXT!

Commercials/Market-Specific Promos for upcoming towns

TV MAIN EVENT: Wendi Richter (WC) & Debbie Combs vs. Magnificent Mimi & Heidi Lee Morgan

Fast paced, action-packed match between the gals.

Mimi and Morgan both seemed to be targeting the champion but Combs lived up to her claim of watching out for Richter. Some exciting near falls and move exchanges pockmarked the bout.

End of the match saw Richter and Mimi the legal ladies in the ring.

Mimi was working Richter over next to the ropes with forearms to the chest when Richter stunned Mimi with a slap upside the head. The two reversed positions and now Richter was on the offensive, firing away on Mimi with a series of forearms to the chest of her own.

Richter went to whip Mimi into the ropes but Mimi reversed and went to catch Richter coming off with a clothesline but Richter ducked the move and came back and caught Mimi with a flying crossbody. Richter for the pin. 1...2...thr... Morgan hit the ring and stomped Richter in the back of the head to break up the pin try. Richter rolled off of Mimi and the champ was holding the back of her head.

Combs hit the ring and tackled Morgan to the mat as the fans cheered. Combs got some licks in on Morgan before Morgan wriggled free, rolled out of the ring and dropped to the floor. Combs left the ring and chased Morgan around the ring.

Back in the squared circle: Richter rolled over and on her side holding the back of her head. Mimi up and booted Richter in the back. Mimi snapped Richter up by the hair and Richter stunned Mimi with a boot to the gut.

On the floor: Combs caught Morgan and started pounding the hell out of Heidi Lee.

In the ring: Richter laid into Mimi with a series of forearms to the chest. Richter went to whip Mimi into the corner but Mimi reversed and sent Richter crashing front-first into the buckles. Richter staggered backwards out of the corner and Mimi grabbed Richter by the back of the hair and nailed Richter with a sitout rear mat slam. Back of Richter's head slammed into the canvas. Richter again rolled over on her side grabbing the back of her head. Mimi rolled the champ over on her back, covered her and hooked the leg. 1...

Combs saw what was happening in the ring and stopped her beating of Heidi Lee Morgan and climbed up on the apron.

...2...

Morgan recovered enough on the floor and lunged over and grabbed Combs' leg to keep her from breaking up the pin try.

...3!

Ref called for the bell as most in the crowd booed but some cheered.

Mimi jumped victoriously to her feet.

Morgan was able to yank Combs off the apron and Combs' face slammed into the apron and she crashed to the floor.

Ref raised Mimi's hand in victory.

Mimi started to strut around in the ring with her fists raised high in the air.

Ref took the AWA World Title belt from the ring announcer and Mimi yanked the title out of the ref's hands. Mimi stood over the downed, hurting Richter and held the belt in the air with one hand while pointing at herself with the the other as the crowd booed.

Mimi then dropped the title down next to Richter as the program went to its outro.

WINNER: Mimi & Morgan - TIME: 11:06

END PROGRAM

 

[the autumn wind]

AWA ALL-STAR WRESTLING SYNDICATED TAPING RESULTS - STEVENS POINT, WI - QUANDT FIELD HOUSE - UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-STEVENS POINT

Since I'm not sure how they handled the taping schedules back then, I'm just going to pretend the syndicated tapings run a week behind the Showboat tapings. Example: The second week Showboat taping would air the same week the first syndicated taping would air, etc.

(* It was announced before the show that the Destruction Crew had won the World Tag Team Titles a few days earlier at the ESPN tapings in Vegas.)

In-Studio Host: Larry Nelson

Match Commentator: Lee Marshall

Color Commentator: Lord James Blears

3rd Taping

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

TV MAIN EVENT (Non-Title): The Destruction Crew (WTTC) vs. The Guerrero Brothers

A look back at Badd Company's vicious attack on the Top Guns last week and an annoucement about next week's TV main event

Tommy Rich sees action

Brad Rheingans wrestles

A look back at Magnificent Mimi and Heidi Lee Morgan defeating Women's Champ Wendi Richter and Debbie Combs when Mimi pinned the champAn interview with Mimi after defeating Richter

AND MORE!

Nelson then sent it to Stevens Point, WI:

Baron Von Raschke def. Tom Hankins in a squash match when Raschke made Hankins submit to the Iron Claw - TIME: 3:22

Post-Match Interview at ringside w/ Lee Marshall:

Marshall asked Von Raschke how to properly apply the claw with devastating effectiveness.

Von Raschke started to explain that large, strong hands and applying a firm grip on the right pressure points on the head were the key.

As Von Raschke was explaining this, Manny Fernandez, in his ring attire, made his way down to ringside and confronted Von Raschke.

Fernandez: Listen up, anciano!Your day in this sport has come and gone!

Raschke: What do you mean?

Fernandez: Time for you to step aside, pops! You gotta go! Time to head for the glue factory!

Raschke: You telling me that I'm too old to continue to wrestle?!

Fernandez: That's exactly what I'm saying! You're taking up space, Mr. AARP!

Raschke: You...

Fernandez: And that claw hold of yours! It may have worked on that jabroni you just wrestled! But I guarantee you that, in your advanced state of decomposition...

Raschke (becoming irate): State of decomposition?!

Fernandez: I bet you couldn't put the Ragin' Bull out with that hold!

Raschke: You don't think I can put you down with the claw?!Von Raschke held his right hand up in the claw position and started opening and closing his hand.

Fernandez: Maybe during your heyday when the Civil War was going on you could have! But not now!

Matter of fact, you'd hurt yourself more than me trying to put my lights out with it!

I can see it now!

Fernandez started walking around like an old man holding his lower back and grimacing in pain.

Fernandez pointed and laughed at Von Raschke.

Raschke (coolly): Name the time and the place?

Fernandez: What?

Raschke: You pick when and where it will happen.

Fernandez seemed puzzled.

Fernandez: What are you babbling about, you antique?

Von Raschke: Let's see if I can make you pass out in my claw. You name the time and place for it to happen.

Fernandez: You want... Haha! You're serious?!

Von Raschke: Very.

Fernandez: Tell you what, Baron, let's do it next week right here on All-Star Wrestling!

Von Raschke: You're on! Call me an old man and tell me that I should go to the glue factory! Get ready to learn respect for your elders next week!

Raschke held up his right hand in the claw position again.

Fernandez: I'll be here you gringo geezer! And I'm gonna make an example out of you! The people watching in the old folk's home will be disappointed when their bald, raisin-headed hero is made a fool out of on TV all across America and the point is driven home that you should have retired long ago!

Von Raschke and Fernandez engaged in a brief staredown as the segment ended with Lee Marshall saying that the Iron Claw Showdown: Von Raschke vs. Fernandez happens next week on ASW!

Video clip aired of Badd Company's assault on the Top Guns last week with the caption: BADD COMPANY BLITZKRIEG!

Commercials/Market-Specific Promos for upcoming shows

Back from commercials...

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd video from last week of Badd Company's vicious attack on the Top Guns.

VIDEO:

As Dukes started to speak, the crowd booed as Dallas Page, manager of Badd Company, came out and confronted the Top Guns at ringside.

Page started to talk but was abruptly cut off when Dukes asked him where Badd Company was. Page said they weren't there but that he had a message from Pat Tanaka and Paul Diamond.

As the Top Guns were locked in on Page and what he had to say, the crowd reacted as Badd Company, in street clothes, came out on the other side of the ring and charged over and jumped the Guns from behind. Tanaka and Diamond pounded away on Rice and Dukes. Tanaka rammed Duke's head into the ring post and Dukes went down face-first on the floor. Diamond was hammering away on Rice. Diamond then drove Rice back-first into the ring apron and Rice crumpled down to the floor. Dukes sat up on his knees and was bleeding. Tanaka got in a few well placed head shots and then grabbed Dukes and threw Dukes into the ring.

DDP handed Diamond his thick black cane as Rice got to his hands and knees on the floor. Diamond sent the cane crashing down across Rice's back a trio of times and Rice went back down on the floor. Diamond tossed the cane back to DDP, stomped Rice and then climbed into the ring and joined Tanaka in putting the boots to the downed Dukes. Dukes in a bad way. Diamond grabbed Dukes by the legs as Tanaka assumed the position. Diamond catapaulted Dukes into Tanaka's arms and Tanaka pulverized Dukes with a DDT.

Rice still down on the floor and Dukes down in the ring.

Crowd booed as Tanaka and Diamond looked over the damage they caused. The pair left the ring and dropped to the floor and each man got a couple of kicks in on Rice.

DDP snatched the mic from Lee Marshall as Tanaka and Diamond walked up behind him.

DDP: I was wrong! Looks my boys are here! My bad!

Crowd popped as face wrestlers came out. DDP quickly tossed the mic back at Marshall and the trio made their way back up the aisle to boos.

Shot of the downed Rice on the floor and the bloody and beaten Dukes in the ring being checked on by the face wrestlers.

Nelson then announced that next week's TV main on ASW would be Derrick Dukes vs. Pat Tanaka.

Nelson then intro'd promos from Dukes and Tanaka's manager Dallas Page.

VIDEO:

In-Studio Promo...

Derrick Dukes was in street clothes and had a mic in his hand. He had a white bandage on his forehead from where he was busted open by Tanaka.

Dukes: Listen up, Pat Tanaka!

My head is still hurting from when you slammed me into that steel post!

The pain is a constant reminder of what you did to me! I can still see the blood running into my eyes and blinding me!

My neck and spine still hurt from the DDT you laid on me!

I had to be helped back to the locker room just to keep from collapsing on the floor!

Tanaka, you and your partner in crime, Paul Diamond, did a number on me and my tag team brother Ricky Rice last week!

But next week...it's gonna be just me and you! And I can hardly wait!

I'm a man who doesn't anger easily! But my anger is off the charts now! I want payback!

What's gonna happen between us won't be pretty! It's gonna get ugly! Real ugly!

This isn't going to be a wrestling match! Oh no! It's gonna be a fight and you can forget the wrestling! I'm not in the mood for exchanging holds! I wanna punch your lights out, Tanaka! That's what I intend to do! And if I get a hold of that scummy manager of yours then I'm gonna make him suffer as well!

Nothing's been settled between the Top Guns and Badd Company! But I intend to settle a score next week!

I'll be seeing you, Pat Tanaka!

Pic then changed to Badd Co. manager DDP and Pat Tanaka. Both were in street clothes and wearing sunglasses. DDP had his cane in one hand and mic in the other.

DDP: The Top Guns learned a tough lesson last week.

They learned you should never let your guard down when a member of Badd Company's around.

Because where one of us is...all of us are!

Derrick Dukes! Brother, next week you're facing this man one-on-one!

DDP pointed at a poker faced Tanaka.

DDP: You think what happened at Pat's hands last week was bad...you just wait, bro!

You can't even begin to fathom what this man is capable of doing! His body is a registered lethal weapon!

Tanaka nodded once in agreement.

DDP: Dukes, you're facing a very dangerous man!

I heard that you couldn't wait to sign the contract for this match!

But you know what they say?! Be careful what you wish for...

Your wish is about to become a nightmare in living color, Dukes!

Pat took it easy on you last week! That won't be the case when you two have your match! There will be no mercy!

And as for your teammate Ricky Rice...he needs to know that he'd best stay out of this match if he knows what's good for him!

I'd hate to see something happen to that pretty face of his!

Dukes, you'd better be ready like you've never been ready before when you step into the ring with Pat Tanaka next week!

The good news is that an ambulance will be waiting in the building in case you need a free ride to the ER!

See you!

Video clip aired of Tommy Rich wrestling with the caption: 'WILDFIRE' SEES ACTION...NEXT!

Commercials

Back from commercials...

Tommy Rich vs. Mario Mancini

Before the match, Rich got on the mic.

Rich: Mario Mancini, you are in the ring with a champion, brother.

And not just a champion...but a World Champion.

In case you and these people did not know, I was the NWA World Champion.

And I had a historic run with that prestigious title.

Marshall (exasperated): He held the NWA Title for all of five days! Jeez!

Rich: So, Mario Man... what is it again?

Mancini said his last name off-mic.

Rich: Mancini, right! Mario Mancini, take heart, there's no shame in losing to a man who had one helluva reign as the NWA Champ!

Blears: Lee, I think Rich must think one day equals 100 days in wrestling title reigns.

Mancini threw an early scare into Rich and almost pulled off the upset victory before Rich settled in, took control and pinned Mancini with the Thesz Press - TIME: 3:37

In-Studio: Larry Nelson interviewed Don Muraco.

Muraco talked about his career and being in the AWA with all the great talent it had.

Nelson brought up that next week Muraco would be wrestling on ASW.

Commercials/Market-Specific Promos for upcoming shows

Back from commercials...

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd footage from the end of last week's women's tag team match pitting AWA Women's Champ Wendi Richter & Debbie Combs against Magnificent Mimi & Heidi Lee Morgan.

VIDEO:

Mimi was working Richter over next to the ropes with forearms to the chest when Richter stunned Mimi with a slap upside the head. The two reversed positions and now Richter was on the offensive, firing away on Mimi with a series of forearms to the chest of her own.

Richter went to whip Mimi into the ropes but Mimi reversed and went to catch Richter coming off with a clothesline but Richter ducked the move and came back and caught Mimi with a flying crossbody. Richter for the pin. 1...2...thr... Morgan hit the ring and stomped Richter in the back of the head to break up the pin try. Richter rolled off of Mimi and the champ was holding the back of her head.

Combs hit the ring and tackled Morgan to the mat as the fans cheered. Combs got some licks in on Morgan before Morgan wriggled free, rolled out of the ring and dropped to the floor. Combs left the ring and chased Morgan around the ring.

Back in the squared circle: Richter rolled over and on her side holding the back of her head. Mimi up and booted Richter in the back. Mimi snapped Richter up by the hair and Richter stunned Mimi with a boot to the gut.

On the floor: Combs caught Morgan and started pounding the hell out of Heidi Lee.

In the ring: Richter laid into Mimi with a series of forearms to the chest. Richter went to whip Mimi into the corner but Mimi reversed and sent Richter crashing front-first into the buckles. Richter staggered backwards out of the corner and Mimi grabbed Richter by the back of the hair, yanked it and sent Richter crashing backwards onto the mat. Richter's head bounced off the canvas. Richter again rolled over on her side grabbing the back of her head. Mimi rolled the champ over on her back, covered her and hooked the leg. 1...

Combs saw what was happening in the ring and stopped her beating of Heidi Lee Morgan and climbed up on the apron.

...2...

Morgan recovered enough on the floor and lunged over and grabbed Combs' leg to keep her from breaking up the pin try.

...3!

Ref called for the bell as most in the crowd booed but some cheered.

Mimi jumped victoriously to her feet.

Morgan was able to yank Combs off the apron and Combs' face slammed into the apron and she crashed to the floor.

Ref raised Mimi's hand in victory.

Mimi started to strut around in the ring with her fists raised high in the air.

Ref took the AWA World Title belt from the ring announcer and Mimi yanked the title out of the ref's hands. Mimi stood over the downed, hurting Richter and held the belt in the air with one hand while pointing at herself with the the other as the crowd booed.

Mimi then dropped the title down next to Richter.Nelson then intro'd comments from the victorious Mimi.

VIDEO:

Mimi was in-studio, in street clothes and holding a mic.

Highlight from the Mimi Promo...

Mimi: Richter! I beat you last week when the title wasn't on the line!

But the next time we meet it will be! The end result will be the same! But this time I'm walking out of the ring as the NEW AWA Women's World Champion!

Video clip aired of Brad Rheingans wrestling with the caption: THE OLYMPIAN SEES ACTION...NEXT!

Commercials

Back from commercials...

Brad Rheingans squashed Mike Boyette via pinfall with a bridging cradle suplex (Perfect Plex) - TIME: 2:02

Post-Match Interview w/ Lee Marshall at ringside:

Rheingans said that Larry Zbysko better start preparing because Ken Patera is coming back sooner than he thinks.

This brought Zbysko to ringside and he and Rheingans had a heated exchange and Zbysko said Patera's been out for so long that he's forgotten all about him.

Zbysko told Rheingans that he'll believe Patera's coming back when he sees Patera in person in the ring.

Rheingans said that Zbysko better get ready because he's gonna see Patera up close and personal very soon.

Zbysko told Rheingans he wasn't going to lose any sleep over it and Zbysko then walked off.AWA logo appeared on the screen with the caption: THE MAIN EVENT IS NEXT!

Commercials/Market-Specific Promos for upcoming shows

Back from commercials...

TV MAIN EVENT (Non-Title): The Destruction Crew (WTTC) vs. Hector & Mando Guerrero

The Guerreros took the fight to the champs from the opening bell and controlled the first couple of minutes of action.

The Crew fought their way back into the match and each team held serve throughout in this see-saw affair.

The champs took a couple of shortcuts during the match that helped them gain brief control during the bout.

The Guerreros made a strong showing and gave the champs all they could handle.

End of the match saw Hector Guerrero and Wayne Bloom the legal men in the ring.

After some brief back-and-forth action, Hector briefly got the upper hand and went to whip Bloom into the ropes but Bloom reversed and blasted Hector coming off with a big clothesline. Hector crashed to the mat. Bloom for the cover. 1...2...thr... Hector kicked out. Crowd cheered.

Bloom snapped Hector up, whipped Hector into the ropes and looked to catch Hector coming off with a backdrop but Hector instead caught Bloom in a sunset flip try. After a brief struggle, Hector flipped Bloom over for the pin. 1...2... Enos hit the ring and kicked Hector in the back to break up the pin try.

Mando hit the ring and blasted Enos with a dropkick. Enos crashed to the mat in the ring. Mando caught Enos with some stomps. Ref got Mando off of Enos and ref tried to get Enos out of the ring.

Bloom picked up Hector and was holding Hector in the horizontal position. As the ref was distracted with Enos, Mando turned and dropkicked his brother in the back. Bloom crashed to the mat with Hector on top of him for the pin try. Ref got Enos out of the ring. Mando back to his corner. Ref turned and saw Hector covering the stunned Bloom. Ref quickly dropped to the mat as Hector hooked the leg. 1...2...3! Ref called for the bell as the fans cheered wildly for the Guerrero brothers.

Hector up and started jumping around and Mando came in and joined the celebration and the two brothers hugged. Ref came over and raised both men's hand in victory as the stunned tag champs looked on from the floor as the program came to a close.

WINNER: Guerrero Bros. - TIME: 12:21

END PROGRAM