AWA 1989: A Financial Savior Is (Badly) Needed

[the autumn wind]

SUMMER 1989

MANHATTAN'S UPPER EASTSIDE

At the woman's pricey penthouse...

Hilly Kristal had one of his employees drive over and drop off the last dozen or so AWA on ESPN episodes on VHS tapes at the front desk of the woman's apartment complex.

The man, who had talked with the woman about possibly looking into buying the staggering promotion, flew up in the early afternoon from Baltimore to meet and stay the night with the woman at her place.

They devoured carry out Chinese food, German chocolate cake and drank wine while destroying their minds with hours of AWA rasslin'.

Woman: There's not much to work with here.

Man: Oh, hon, I bet you say that to some of the men in your life!

Woman: What?

Man: Not much to work with.

Woman: Not much to... Oh! Hahahaha!

The two laughed.

Man: You know, watching this, I am beginning to wonder if it really would be worth the investment.

There's not much name talent here.

Woman: I know. But with our money behind it things might be different.

Man: Might, ***. Might is the key word here.

Woman: We'd need to find out the status of some of the guys in the NWA and WWF.

Man: It would take some major offers to get some of them to jump ship to us.

Also, who wants to live in the upper midwest in the winter?

Woman: Well, Baltimore and New York get their share of bad weather, too.

Man: I know. But not like Minnesota.

Those winters... I get chills just thinking about them.

Woman: If we can purchase the promotion, then maybe we could look into moving the AWA base of operations to a warmer climate.

Man: That would probably need to be priority #1 on our to do list.

We'd need to make things more attractive for guys to want to come here for the long haul. Looking into moving the base of operations to a state like Florida would not be a bad idea.

Woman: It's all just talk unless we get serious about making an offer.

Man: This thing could be a real money pit, ***.

We could lose a lot of money here.

Woman: Think of the upside. We could also make lots of scratch as well.

Man: If we can get it turned around.

The two turned their attention back to the shows.

Woman: This Tommy Jammer. He looks like he might have an upside.

Man: Yeah, but would the fans buy into him as a top guy?

The woman shrugged.

They continued to watch the videos.

While watching, the pair sucked down a few cancer sticks and drank more wine.

Man: That Dallas Page, he has star written all over him.

Woman: You think so?

Man: I do.

He looks good. Knows how to dress the part. And he's a good talker.

Woman: Sure you're not lusting after him?

Man: Maybe it's just the wine talking. F*** it! Never mind what I said! I just wanna know him in the Biblical sense.

The pair laughed.

Back to video watching...

Woman: Wasn't Tom Zenk recently in the WWF?

Man: I think he might have been.

Who's this guy he's feuding with?

Woman: His name's Col. DeBeers.

Was told by a friend of mine that he's supposed to be some sort of racist South African mercenary.

Friend also told me he did a cult guru gimmick up in the Pacific Northwest a few years ago.

Man: Really?

Woman: Was a follower of that Bagwhan guy.

Man: We should try and get some video of that. I really don't know about using a hardcore racist gimmick like Colonel...

Women: DeBeers. Col. DeBeers.

More video watching...

Man: This Destruction Crew looks like a really good team. I see a serious upside here.

Woman: I was thinking the same thing. Plus, they play arrogant and cocky really well.

The man shook his head in agreement.

More watching and wine drinking...

Man: They have some pretty good lady wrestlers. I remember Richter in the WWF.

Woman: Do you think we could package women wrestlers as seriously as the men?

Man: That might be next to impossible.

Woman: Why?

Man: Because I don't think it's ever been taken all that seriously.

Woman: We can work to change it.

Man: The men have to remain front and center.

Woman: Agreed. But, we can try to elevates the gals.

More video watching and boozing...

Woman: I've made a list of who I think the top stars are here and who has potential.

Man: Shoot.

The man took a big drag off his Pall Mall.

Woman: Okay. For stars I have: Sgt. Slaughter.

Man: Umm-hmm...

Woman: Jerry Lawler.

Man: Yup.

Woman: The Destruction Crew. Larry Zbysko. Ken Patera. Don Muraco.

Man: Continue.
Woman:Dallas Page.

Man: What about Badd Company?

Woman: Eh! I can take 'em or leave 'em. But Page is a keeper.

I would also list Richter as a star.

Man: Agreed.

Another drag on his smoke.

Woman: What do you think of Tom Zenk?

Man: Would look good in a towel.

Woman: Haha!

Do you see him as a major star?

Man: I don't. He's a mid-card guy if you ask me. He's just lacking something. Not a great talker and not high on the charisma scale.

Patera's another one I just don't see as long-term main event material. That ship has sailed.

Woman: Past his prime?

Man: Yeah.

Woman: Hey, would you have been a sailor on the SS Ken Patera back in the day?

The man had just taken a drink of wine and immediately spit it back in the glass because he started laughing.

Man: ***, I love ya. But you breeders are a funny lot. But I have to admit that was a good one.

Woman: It's the wine talking, ####.

The pair started laughing that type of buzzed/drunk laugh where you have trouble stopping.

Woman: Is Patera your type?

Man: Well, he's a man and he's breathing so...YES!

More of that zany buzzed/drunk uncontrollable laughter.

The woman largely composed herself.

Woman: Let's get back to watching this, shall we?

Man: We shall.

More video watching and vino drinking...

The woman suddenly stopped the tape.

Woman: I forgot the rest of my list!

Man: By all means.

By the way, I hated your second album.

I took that 8-track and burned it and urinated on it to put out the fire.

Woman: Thanks for your honesty, ####.

Maybe if you would have bought it on cassette you'd have enjoyed it more.

Man: I was thinking more along the line of reel-to-reel.

The pair laughed some more in an 'I can't stop because I'm getting drunk' fashion.

The two finally started to calm down with intermittent bursts of laughter thrown in.

Woman: Here's my list of wrestlers who I think have potential.

Tommy Jammer.

Man: Okay.

Woman: The others are: Sam Houston. Magnificent Mimi. Jonnie Stewart.Guys I don't see being around for long if we buy the AWA are: Ken Patera. Jerry Blackwell. The Guerrero Brothers. Baron Von Raschke. Manny Fernandez. Col. DeBeers, unless we can re-package him in another gimmick.

By the way, have you been able to talk to anybody about the status of the promotion?

Man: Have only heard it might be for sale.

Woman: We need to let somebody who knows somebody in the promotion know that we might be looking to buy.

Man: Totally.

We both need to check around and see if we can find a liason.

The woman nodded in agreement.

Then it was back to watching AWA videos.

And drinking. Lots and lots of drinking.

STAY TUNED...

(Names redacted to protect the innocent.)

 

[the autumn wind]

SUMMER 1989

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

AWA boss Verne Gagne decided to do it.

He picked up the phone in his office and dialed.

After a few rings, a women picked up the phone.

Verne: Hi. May I speak to Barry Shenkarow please.

The woman asked who was calling.

Verne: Verne Gagne. I wanted to discuss selling the AWA.

The woman put Verne on hold.

Verne didn't have to wait long for Shenkarow to pick up the phone.

Barry: Hello, Verne.

Verne: Hey, Barry.

Barry: Well, I hear this call is about negotiating to sell the AWA.

Verne: That's right.

Barry: The last offer I made to you was $1.5 million.

And that offer still stands.

Verne: Would you be willing to negotiate?

Barry: Sure. I'm open to some haggling.

Verne: Well, how does $1.8 million grab you?

Barry: It does not grab me very well.

If you could come down a little bit.

Verne gritted his teeth and mouthed a four letter word.

Verne: $1.7 million. How's $1.7 million?

Barry: Well, it's more in the ballpark.

I was thinking more along the lines of maybe...$1.6 million.

Verne: How about $1.65 million?

Barry: Hmmm...

You know, Verne, that sounds like a deal I can possibly sink my teeth into.

Verne: Why don't you take some time and think about it, Barry. $1.65 million.

Barry: Give me some time.

I know you're looking to move the promotion.

Verne: I never thought retirement would be my style.

But lately it's started to sound pretty good to me.

Leave the worries of the job behind.

Barry: Maybe we could even throw in a consulting job like Lurie offered you.

But, it wouldn't be at $175 grand per year.

Verne: What were you thinking along the lines of?

Barry: Right off hand...in the $70-80,000 range.

Verne just shook his head.

Verne: Okay. Can I ask how many years it would be for?

Barry: Probably one to two years and we would re-visit the matter after that.

Verne: Barry just it some thought. I'm open to a deal.

Barry: I'll think about it, Verne, and get back to you soon.

Verne: Thanks, Barry. Take care.

Barry: You, too.

Verne hung up the phone and spun around in his chair and looked out the picture window in his office.

Quickly doing the math in his head, the total deal would come out to less than $2 million.

But Verne was running out of options and he knew it.

Selling to Shenkarow made sense from a business perspective.

But Verne knew Shenkarow would rape the AWA of its 'present pro wrestling as a legit sport' idea and replace it with a garish creation he would not recognize.

Verne also knew that the current moderate upswing in interest in the AWA may not hold.

Once the Lawler-Sarge program was finished who knew what would happen.

Verne thought about trying to hang on longer and see if he could salvage his pride and joy.

But reality was telling a different story.

And two people watching AWA tapes in New York might just be the angels Verne has really been waiting for.

STAY TUNED...

 

[the autumn wind]

SUMMER 1989

SHOWBOAT HOTEL - LAS VEGAS, NV

It was taping day at the Showboat Sports Pavilion for the next batch of shows to air on ESPN.

AWA boss Verne Gagne was sitting his room at the off-the-Strip hotel. He was drinking a soda and reading the Review-Journal newspaper when a knock came on his door.

Verne got up and answered the door. It was AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter.

Verne: Hey, Bob*. Have a seat. Picked up a couple of brews for you down in the casino.

Sarge: Thanks, boss.

Sarge sat down in a chair and cracked open a cold one and started drinking the alcohol-fueled nectar.

Sarge: We doin' the usual wait before you call Lawler?

Verne: We are.

Verne was hardcore about kayfabe.

The two men chatted for around 20 minutes and then Verne made the call to Lawler's room.

Lawler picked up.

Verne: Jerry, come on up. I'm in room 508.

Verne hung up the phone and he and Sarge went back to talking.

Five minutes later, a knock came on Verne's door.

Verne got up and opened the door.

Verne: Come on in, King.

Lawler came in.

Verne: Those Cokes are for you.

Lawler: Thank you.

Lawler sat down in a chair and popped open one of the bevs and took a swig.

Lawler: Ahhhhhhhhhh.

Man, it's hot as hell out there today.

Sarge: At least in the desert it's a dry heat.

Verne: Amen to that. Rather be in this than Minnesota heat right now.

Lawler: I agree. You know what it's like in the Southeast this time of year.

Sarge: What, you don't love a good soaking sweat even when doing nothing?

The three chuckled.

Lawler: Like I say, there's nothing better than sweating profusely in Tennessee and having to peel your underwear off your nuts. And that hurts!

Laughter from the trio.

Sarge: What's on the agenda, Verne?

Verne: OK. You two are in the main event tonight. It's a dark match.

But we're going to record it because I want to put together a video chronicle of your feud and package it and sell it.

So, tonight's match will not air on TV but it will be on the tape.

You guys have been working around 20 minutes before going to the finish at the houses, right?

Lawler: Yes.

Sarge: Uh-huh.

Verne: I need you guys to go around 30 minutes tonight.

Lawler: Different finish?

Verne: No, the same double count out finish.

Sarge: OK. You want juice?

Verne: No juice tonight.

What I want to do is bring you back at the next tapings here in early September and have another dark match that will be recorded and that match will be a 60-minute broadway*.

We're not going to announce the match between you two for Super Clash 4 in Milwaukee until the second or third week of September so as not to hurt ticket sales for the house shows.

Lawler: Anything else?

Lawler took another sip of Coke and Sarge took a drink of beer.

Verne: You guys will be appearing on TV, of course. I'll tell you what you're doing for TV's when I lay out the shows down at the Pavilion.

Sarge: That it right now?

Verne: It is, gents.

And I just want to thank both of you.

Lawler: For what?

Verne: For driving a revival of interest in the AWA.

You two are the ones responsible for the houses we're drawing and we're due to have over 4,000 in the Pavilion tonight and that's tickets sold. No comps in that number.

Sarge: Sounds good.

Lawler: Sarge, let's go out and tear the house down.

Sarge: Let's do it.

The three sat around and talked casually for a few more minutes before Sarge left and headed back to his room.

After about 10 minutes, Lawler did the same.

Verne Gagne sat in his nice, cool air conditioned room.

He felt good.

It was gonna be the biggest AWA house in Vegas in what seemed like eons.

But Verne also knew that the reality was he was most likely gonna have to sell.

Winnipeg businessman or a New York-Baltimore connection?

The clock was ticking.

And Verne knew that time was of the essence.

STAY TUNED...

* Bob Remus, aka, Sgt. Slaughter.

* Broadway = Draw

 

[the autumn wind]

AWA WRESTLING ON ESPN - SHOWBOAT SPORTS PAVILION - LAS VEGAS, NV - AUGUST 1989

(1st Taping Re-cap)

Match Commentator: Lee Marshall

Color Commentator: Lord James Blears

In-Ring Interviewer: Larry Nelson

SHOW INTRO:

Show opened cold with Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey stalking around the ring in his Arab garb.

Crowd loudly booing El-Kaissey as Larry Nelson, mic in hand, stepped into the ring.

Nelson: Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey, what are you doing out here?!

Kaissey: Infidel Nelson! I am out here to tell all these other infidels that he is coming!

Crowd booed.

Nelson: Who, exactly?

Kaissey: The man I have found who will change wrestling forever!

Starting with Jerry Blackwell, he is going to bring the AWA to its knees!

He is an unstoppable force who will be the World Champion very soon!

Nelson: How soon can we expect to see this man?

Kaissey: It's sooner than you think, Nelson!

When he arrives the infidels will be shocked at what they see!

They've never seen anything like him!

He is a mountain of a man! No one will be able to take him off his feet!

But he will literally crush his foes!

And everyone will shake in their boots at the mere mention of his name!

The time for great change has come to the AWA!

And there is no one who can stop it!
More crowd boos as Sheik strutted around in the ring.

Nelson: Let's send it to Lee Marshall and Lord James Blears.

Marshall and Blears were in the announcers' position at ringside.

Marshall: An interesting start to the show.

Welcome to AWA Championship Wrestling on ESPN.

I'm Lee Marshall along with pro wrestling legend Lord James Blears.

Lord James, what do you think of what Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey just said?

Blears: Lee, I think the Sheik is about to unleash some sort of terrible plague on the wrestling world.

I would not underestimate this man under any circumstances.

Whoever this wrestler is he is bringing in, he must be an absolute monster.

God help us if the man is the unstoppable force of nature Kaissey says he is.

Marshall: I agree, Lord James.

This man must be a one man army judging by the words of El-Kaissey.

I don't doubt for a minute that this man will terrorize the AWA when he is unleashed here.

Blears: No doubt about it, Lee. We're gonna be in for quite a ride when this wrestler arrives.

Marshall: Every day brings us one step closer to this man coming into the AWA and turning it upside down.

We'll have our first match when we come back.

Picture of the AWA logo aired with the caption: NEXT... GREAT AWA ACTION!

Commercials

Tom Zenk (still wearing his facemask) won a squash match over Ted Baxter via pinfall with his superkick finisher

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS:

Nelson: Tom Zenk. An impressive victory over Ted Baxter.

Before we go any further, we hear you have some news for us.

Zenk: I do, Larry.

This mask I'm wearing right now will be coming off in the next couple of weeks.

Nelson: So, you'll no longer be wearing the mask when you wrestle?

Zenk: That's right. I'll be able to wrestle without this thing once again.

Nelson: Has it been a hinderance to you when you're wrestling.

Zenk: Not looking straight ahead. But when I've head to look out of the corner of my eye it affects my vision. My ability to see then is limited by the mask.

Nelson: Will be good to see you back 100%.

Zenk: Thank you.

Nelson: Now, you and Col. DeBeers have both taken turns costing each other big matches. He cost you a shot at the World Title when he interfered in your #1 Contender's Match with Tommy Rich and belted you with that coal miner's glove that put you in the mask a few weeks ago and then you played a roll in DeBeers' upset loss to Tommy Jammer.

Zenk: It's called payback. That's what I did to DeBeers in that match.

Nelson: This thing is really escalating between you two. Do you see an end in sight?

Zenk: I don't. Who knows how this is gonna all play out over time.

DeBeers! I'm ready to fight you anywhere, anytime!

I'll battle you all over this great country! I'll fight you all over the world if I have to!

This is a blood feud now! This is about defending one's honor!

DeBeers is a racist! He's a mercenary! He'll do whatever he thinks is necessary to advance his evil cause of South African apartheid!

He's accused me of being a drug abuser! That makes him a liar as well!

DeBeers has no conscience, Larry!

He's all about stepping on people to get to the top!

But that's not gonna happen with me!

Bring it on, Colonel!

The time for war between us is...now! And only one man can emerge the victor on this battle field!

Crowd popped.

Nelson: That was Tom Zenk, everybody!

Announcers discussed the DeBeers-Zenk situation.

Announcers said the TV main event would be: Brad Rheingans vs. Mike Enos

Commercials

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

Tommy Rich vs. Lee Majors

Majors was already in the ring and announced.

Rich came down the heel entrance aisle in his ring garb and carrying a drink in a plastic cup.

Rich walked around ringside as the crowd booed and when Rich got to the announcers' table, Rich promptly threw the drink in announcer Lee Marshall's face. Marshall quickly threw off his headset and went to go after Rich. Nelson was standing close by and Rich grabbed Nelson and pulled Nelson in front of him as the crowd booed even more.

A couple of AWA officials came down to ringside to keep the peace. They finally calmed things down enough to where Marshall went and sat back down in his chair, wiped off his face and jacket with a couple of napkins and put his headset back on to call the match.

Marshall: Lord James, one day there's gonna be a day of reckoning between me and Tommy Rich! I've had it with that jerk!

Rich got a surprise when Majors came out quickly and stunned Rich and almost scored the pinfall upset with a small package.

Marshall: That was a six million dollar move by Majors!

Rich then took control of the match and finished off Majors with a sitout suplex slam for the 1...2...3.

Rich left the ring and dropped to the floor as Larry Nelson caught him for a quick word.

Nelson: Tommy Rich! What was that all about with Lee Marshall?!

Rich: The only thing I can say is Lee Marshall's all wet!

Marshall stood up but Blears was able to keep Marshall from going after the Southern loudmouth.

Rich left and headed back up the heel entrance aisle to boos.

Pic aired of the AWA logo with the caption: WAHOO & MURACO UP NEXT!

Commercials

Wahoo McDaniel & Don Muraco won a squash match over Jack Roy & Johnny Dark when Muraco pinned Dark with his inverted piledriver finisher.

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Another solid victory for the team of Wahoo McDaniel and Don Muraco.

You guys are really looking good.

Muraco: We're meshing well, Larry. Our styles compliment each other.

I feel like I've wrestled with Wahoo my whole life and we're really on to something here.

Nelson: Wahoo, is the feeling mutual?

Wahoo: It is. We've only been a team for a short time but, like Muraco said, we work well together.

Nelson: The climb up the AWA tag team ladder continues for you guys.

And you're beating the teams you should beat. Now you're a bout to climb up a few more rungs on that ladder and face better competition.

Any concerns because you've only been a team for a short time?

Wahoo: Not at all. We're ready for better competition in the weeks and months ahead. We're ready to be tested.

Muraco: If you want to become the AWA World Tag Team Champions, then you've got to beat better and better opponents to earn that title shot.

Nelson: That was Wahoo McDaniel and Don Muraco, everybody!

Crowd that wasn't inebriated cheered Muraco and Wahoo.

Pic aired of Baron Von Raschke with the caption: NEXT... IS THE BARON DONE???!!!

Commercials

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd pre-recorded comments from Baron Von Raschke.

VIDEO:

Von Raschke, in street clothes with mic in hand, was standing in the middle of the ring in an empty Showboat Sports Pavilion.

Baron: I stand in this ring and look at all these seats. Soon they will be filled with screaming fans.

And the fans are what makes this sport so great. You're why we do this for a living.

Manny Fernandez, you have stated you won't wrestle me one more time.

But I'm here to ask you again. Will you wrestle me, Fernandez?

We had a great match last time and you emerged the victor.

I want another shot at you. I think I deserve it. I pushed you to the limit last time and you can't deny it, Fernandez.

The people want to see us lock up one more time. They deserve this match.

What about it? Will you do it, Fernandez?

The Claw Master vs. The Ragin' Bull one more time.

I await your answer, Manny.

Baron did the claw gesture with his right hand.

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd a video announcement from AWA boss Verne Gagne.

VIDEO:

Verne Gagne was in street clothes and standing in front of the AWA logo with mic in hand.

Verne: Greetings, wrestling fans.

This is AWA promoter Verne Gagne.

I am excited to tell you that we'll have a big announcement about the AWA next week.

This is the biggest thing we've done in quite some time.

I think you fans are gonna like the news.

The AWA is moving forward and this announcement will show that the AWA will once again be a force to be reckoned with in wrestling.

So, tune in next week for this major announcement.

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Nelson talked about the big announcement. Said he's heard rumors about what it is and it promises to be big.

Pic aired of Magnificent Mimi with the caption: NEXT... MIMI IS MAGNIFICENT!

Commercials

Magnificent Mimi won a squash match over Barbara Eden via pinfall with her missle dropkick finisher

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Magnificent Mimi, you looked really good in your win over Barbara Eden.

Mimi: Of course I did, Nelson! That's why I earned the name 'Magnificent'.

Nelson: You're still chasing Wendi Richter for the AWA Women's World Championship. But Richter is a very tough customer.

Mimi: I'm chasing her like a cat chases a mouse. And a mouse can only escape for so long before it's caught and torn apart by the cat!

Richter's my mouse! And when I catch her, I will devour her and become the new AWA Women's Champion!

Richter needs to be ready because defeat is on the horizon for her and it will come at the hands of the Magnificent One.

Nelson: Magnificent Mimi, everybody!

Smattering of boos and shouts of 'Show us your tits!' from the heavily boozing crowd.

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

Commercials

TV MAIN EVENT: Brad Rheingans vs. Mike Enos (w/ Wayne Bloom).

Bloom held both belts, one slung over each shoulder, as Enos wrestled.

Back-and-forth affair between the two as the former Olympian pushed one-half of the tag team champions to the limit.

At the end of the match, Rhengans was on the offensive. Rheingans had worked Enos over and went to whip Enos into the ropes but Enos reversed and caught Rheingans coming off with a huge clothesline that flattened Rheingans. Enos put the boots to the downed Rheingans as a smiling Bloom looked on from ringside. Enos snapped Rheingans up, whipped Rheingans into the ropes and looked to catch Rheingans coming off with a backdrop but Rheingans leapfrogged Enos. Enos spun around and Rheingans nailed Enos with a Diamond Cutter (3/4 Bulldog Cutter). Crowd popped. Rhengans a little slow in making the cover. 1...2...thr... Kickout by Enos. Most in the crowd groaned. Rheingans slapped his hand on the mat in frustration. Both men up and Rheingans stunned Enos with a kick to the gut. Rheingans grabbed Enos and went for a belly-to-back suplex but Enos flipped out of Rheingans' grasp. Enos went to clothesline Rheingans but Rheingans ducked the move and came back and staggered Enos with a monster slap to the jaw. Slap was so hard that it spun Enos around facing away from Rheingans. Rheingans ran Enos into the ropes and rolled up Enos from behind for the pin. 1...2... Enos kicked Rheingans off. Crowd groaned (again). Bloom pacing like a caged animal at ringside. Both men to their feet and Rheingans caught Enos with a strike to the side of the head. Rheingans went to whip Enos into the ropes but Enos reversed and caught Rheingans coming off with a scoop powerslam. Enos made it to his feet. Bloom yelling for Enos to finish him off. Enos snatched up Rheingans and nailed Rheingans with a spinning crucifix toss. Rheingans slammed to the mat and flatlined. Enos for the cover and hooked the leg. 1...2...3. Ref called for the bell as many in the crowd booed but a minority cheered the victor (or just Rheingans losing).

Enos up and the ref raised his hand in victory as Bloom stepped into the ring and handed Enos his tag title belt. Quick pat on the back from Bloom. Bloom and Enos talked briefly with each other in the ring. Rheingans down and slowly recovering in the ring. Bloom and Enos then further delayed the Rheingans' recovery when they attacked Rheingans with their titles. Crowd heat grew as Bloom and Enos hammered away on the former Olympian with their belts. Marshall and Blears begged for someone to save Rheingans.

Crowd popped as Ken Patera, in his ring attire, charged down the face aisle and hit the ring. Enos and Bloom stopped the Brad beating and bailed to the safety of the floor as Patera stood in front of the injured Rheingans.

Brief, tense standoff between the two parties before Patera checked on Rheingans.

WINNER: Enos - Pinfall - 11:11

Shot of announcers Lee Marshall and Lord James Blears at the announce table. The pair briefly discussed what just transpired and then hyped Verne Gagne's big announcement for next week on the program.

CLOSING CREDITS:

 

[the autumn wind]

​

AWA ALL-STAR WRESTLING SYNDICATED TAPING RESULTS - HAMMOND, IN - HAMMOND CIVIC CENTER

In-Studio Host: Larry Nelson

Match Commentator: Lee Marshall

Color Commentator: Lord James Blears

1st Taping Re-cap

Show Intro

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

TV MAIN EVENT: AWA WOMEN'S WORLD TITLE MATCH
Wendi Richter (WC) vs. Queen Kong

The AWA debut of The Trooper Del Wilkes

A look back at highlights from the match last week between long-time rivals Greg Gagne and Larry Zbysko

Col. DeBeers wrestles

AWA boss Verne Gagne has some major news for the fans

Jake Milliman sees action

AND MORE!

Nelson then sent it to the arena in Hammond, IN.

Jonnie Stewart won a squash over Tom Chambers via pinfall with his flying knee to the gut finisher

During the match, announcers discussed whether or not Stewart's knee pad was loaded with a foreign object

Stewart adjusted the knee pad just before going to the finish

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Larry Nelson: Jonnie Stewart. The first thing I want to ask you is...

Stewart: Before I answer any of your questions, Nelson, I have something I need to say.

Nelson: Okay.

Stewart: We're here in Hammond, Indiana, the so-called Heartland of America.

Some fans cheered.

Stewart: Well, it's the biggest hick town I've ever been in!

Crowd now booing.

Stewart: When I drove into the parking lot in my car, I couldn't believe the number of tractors, wheel barrows and stage coaches parked out there!

I'm surprised they did not have oat and water stations and hitching posts for the horses!

Nelson: Jonnie, please! Why are you insul...

Stewart: One of the parking lot attendants was wearing a coon skin cap! Another one was chewing on a piece of straw! Hello! The 1800's are over! Time to move forward! Time to evolve, you Hammond hicks!

Is Teddy Roosevelt the President of Hammond?! For the rest of us, Bush in President! But we're not stuck in a time warp like these clowns!

More boos.

Stewart: When's the next barn dance?! Boy, I bet the Sasparilla will flow at that one!

Driving into Hammond I saw a guy making a call on a phone!

Nelson: What's the big deal about that?

Stewart: The phone was at the top of a telephone pole!

Hammond, Indiana, the real life Green Acres!

More crowd boos.

Stewart: One more thing before you ask me any questions.

Nelson shook his head.

Nelson: What?

Stewart: 1990 is now just a few short months away. And I am the man who will lead wrestling through the 1990's! Jonnie Stewart will be the flagship for this sport!

And one thing I can promise all these people out here is that pro wrestling will stop coming to Hammond, Indiana!

Loud boos from the crowd.

Stewart: This town needs to be quarantined for the good of the country!

President Bush, if you're listening, please close Hammond, Indiana! Please shut down this black mark on America!

Hammond, you had a good run until the invention of electricity and indoor plumbing! But it's been downhill ever since! Time to vanish down the memory hole!

Nelson: I need to ask a question about the knee....

Stewart: Sorry, Larry, I've got to get out of here before I'm forced to bale some hay and marry some farmer's sweathog of a daughter named Ethel!

Nelson threw his hands up in frustration as Stewart exited the ring to crowd boos.

Stewart had words with and taunted some fans at ringside before heading back up the heel aisle.

Pic aired of Jake Milliman with the caption: 'MILKMANIA' IS RUNNIN' WILD!

Commercials

Jake Milliman won a squash match over Theodore Kaczynski via pinfall with his Pasteurizer (Flying Leg Drop) finisher

Before the match, Jake came out and shreddded his 'Milkmania' t-shirt and threw it into the crowd and briefly played to the fans.

After his win, Jake struck some bodybuilder poses.

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Jake Milliman! It looks like these fans out here are really taking to 'Milkmania'!

Milliman: That's because milk does a body good!

Nelson: The posing celebration after the match...

Milliman: I pose because I like to show what milk has done for me!

Jake wowed the crowd with a few more poses.

Nelson: You've been on a roll since you started 'Milkmania'. You've got to be looking forward to bigger and better things here in the AWA.

Milliman: I certainly am! I've been talking to the Dairy Gods up on Mount Darigold and my aim right now is to get one of those 16 slots in that Pro Wrestling Heritage Championship Tournament and win that belt for milk drinkers everywhere!

Nelson: Sounds like a grandiose plan!

Milliman: I'm gonna milk it for all it's worth, Nelson!

Nelson rolled his eyes.

Nelson: One last question, 'Milkman'.

Are you and Greg Gagne gonna continue to wrestle as a team?

Milliman: I sure hope so!

We had a good discussion about our future over pie and milk not too long ago!

Would be a shame to break up the band now!

Love a shot at those tag titles!

And if we won we'd celebrate with cigars and...milk, daddy!

Another Nelson eye roll.

Nelson: Jake Milliman, everybody!

Pic aired of a highway patrol hat with the caption: NEXT... THE TROOPER ARRIVES!

Commercials/Market-Specific promos for upcoming house shows/Generic promos for non-house show cities

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd the debut of 'The Trooper' Del Wilkes and had a little background on Wilkes. Then sent it back to the ring in Hammond, IN.

DEBUT MATCH: 'The Trooper' Del Wilkes

Wilkes got a nice ovation coming to the ring

Wilkes won a squash match over Dennis Stamp via submission when he made Stamp pass out in a double nerve hold on Stamp's traps

Crowd cheered Wilkes after the impressive victory.

Wilkes dropped to the floor for an interview.

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: 'Trooper' Del Wilkes, welcome to the AWA!

Wilkes: Thank you, Larry! It's great to be here in front of these great AWA fans!

Some in the crowd cheered.

Nelson: Del, that was an impressive first win here. It looks like you're gonna present a real challenge for your opponents.

Wilkes: That's what I'm hoping for. You've got some real good talent here in the AWA. And the only way to make a name for yourself is to work your way up the ladder and ultimately beat the best.

Nelson: 'Trooper' Del Wilkes, everybody!

In-Studio: Larry Nelson discussed 'Trooper' Del Wilkes and said the guy has a a lot of potential.

Nelson then discussed the main event AWA Women's World Title match and intro'd pre-recorded video comments from challenger Queen Kong.

VIDEO:

Kong was standing in front of the AWA logo in her ring attire and sunglasses with mic in hand.

Kong: Wendi Richter! Do you know why I'm wearing these sunglasses, hon?! Do ya?!

It's because my star is gonna shine brighter than it's ever shined after our title match tonight! My future's so bright, I gotta wear shades!

When I'm through with Richter, they're gonna have to peel her off the mat with a spatula because I'm gonna squash her!

And you know what I'm gonna do when I win the title?! I'm gonna take that teeny, tiny belt that Richter held and I'm gonna take it out back of the arena and throw it in the dumpster!

I need a belt befitting a big, beautiful woman! I need a belt fit for a Queen! Not some belt I would have worn when I was five!

It's over for you, Richter! You're done! There's no way you can withstand my size and raw, brute power!

And Richter thinks she's soooooooooooooooooooooo pretty! Well, I'm gonna beat the pretty right out of her when that bell rings!

Take her title and ugly her up!

Queen Kong has arrived and women's wrestling will never be the same because of it!

END VIDEO

Pic aired of the AWA logo with the caption: NEXT... A MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT!

Commercials

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd a video announcement from AWA promoter Verne Gagne.

VIDEO:

Verne Gagne was in street clothes and standing in front of the AWA logo with mic in hand.

Verne: Greetings, wrestling fans.

This is AWA promoter Verne Gagne.

I am excited to tell you that we'll have a big announcement about the AWA next week.

This is the biggest thing we've done in quite some time.

And I think you fans are gonna like the news.

The AWA is moving forward and this announcement will show that the AWA will once again be a force to be reckoned with in wrestling.

So, tune in next week for the major announcement.

END VIDEO

Nelson briefly talked about the announcement and said if it's what he heard it is then it could indeed be a game-changer for the AWA.

Nelson then intro'd pre-recorded comments from AWA Women's World Champion Wendi Richter.

VIDEO:

Richter was standing in front of the AWA logo in her ring attire, belt around her waist with mic in hand.

Richter: Getting steamrolled by Queen Kong was a painful experience! I can't begin to describe it! The word 'pain' doesn't do it justice!

Kong! You won the Battle Royal! You earned your shot at the belt!

But in the main event, there will be no cheap-shotting me! You won't catch me off-guard like you did after you won the Battle Royal!

I know you're big! You're a human wall!

And I have to get you off your feet to beat you!

You're a real challenge for any normal-sized female wrestler! I have my work cut out for me on a an epic scale!

But David has slain Goliath before and Wendi will take down Kong tonight with everything on the line!

END VIDEO

Pic aired of Col. DeBeers with the caption: NEXT... THE COLONEL!

Commercials/Market-Specific promos for upcoming house shows/Generic promos for non-house show cities

Col. DeBeers won a quick squash match over Edward James Olmos via pinfall with his face-first piledriver finisher

After the match, DeBeers left the ring and dropped to the floor and walked over to Larry Nelson who was prepared to interview the Colonel.

DeBeers ripped the mic out of Nelson's hand and shoved Nelson out of the picture.

Nelson: Hey!!!

DeBeers spoke directly into the camera.

DeBeers: Tom Zenk! Listen up, son!

You go ahead and keep playing your tit-for-tat games with me! Keep it up!

Because Zenk, in the end you will be the ultimate loser in this war between us!

It's been cast in stone!

Your weak American mind is no match for that of the South African mercenary!

I was made for war! You were made for soft American decadence, Zenk!

And wars are always won by those who are better prepared both mentally and physically!

Prepare to go down in humiliating defeat, boy! You'll never be able to show your face in wrestling again!

DeBeers tossed the mic at Nelson and stormed off.

In-Studio: Nelson briefly discussed the continuing hostilities between Zenk and DeBeers.

Nelson then intro'd highlights from last week's match between long-time rivals Larry Zbysko and Greg Gagne.

VIDEO:

Zbysko up and stomped Greg, snapped Greg up and choked Greg on the top rope. Ref counting. Zbysko broke the illegal move at the count of 4 and then repeated it, breaking again at the count at 4. Greg staggered away from the ropes and dropped to his knees holding his throat in the ring. Zbysko kicked Greg in the back. Greg now down on the mat and in a bad way. Zbysko backed off and yelled for Greg to get to his feet. Zbysko mocking Greg saying: Get up, Verne's boy! Greg slowly made it to his feet. Zbysko moved in and and caught Greg with a gut punch that doubled Greg over. Zbysko then went to hoist Greg up for the piledriver.

Marshall: If Zbysko hits this piledriver, with what Zbysko has already done to Greg's neck in the match, it could end up really bad for Greg.

Zbysko tried to hoist Greg up but Greg twice blocked the move and backdropped Zbysko to the mat. Greg down to his knees and holding the back of his neck. Both men to their feet and Zbysko punched Greg and caught Greg with forearm blows to the upper back and neck area. Zbysko went to whip Greg into the ropes but Greg reversed and caught Zbysko coming off with an inverted atomic drop. Zbysko crashed to the mat and grabbed the jewels as most of the crowd cheered. Greg painfully moved in and grabbed Zbysko by the legs. Greg catapulted Zbysko into the corner. Zbysko's head slammed into the top steel bolt that connects the ring post to the turnbuckle. Zbysko bounced back and crashed to the mat. Greg quickly shook out the effects of the match. Greg moved in as Zbysko got to his knees. Zbysko had joined the crimson mask club. Greg pulled Zbysko up by the hair, held Zbysko by the hair and popped Zbysko with a series of deliberate head shots. Zbysko stunned. Crowd into the match. Greg bodyslammed Zbysko and then Greg went out on the apron and mounted the top buckle and came off with a diving knee to the chest that connected. Greg for the cover. 1...2...thr... Zbysko kicked out. Crowd groaned. Greg and Zbysko both feeling the effects of the match. Greg snapped up Zbysko and went to suplex Zbysko but Zbysko twice blocked the move, caught Greg with a couple of punches to the side of the ribs and went to suplex Greg. As Zbysko got Greg up in the air, Greg wriggled free of Zbysko's grasp, dropped down behind Zbysko and locked Zbsyko in the Gagne sleeper (TM). Crowd now really into it. Zbysko struggling to free himself from Greg's grasp. After being in the hold for several seconds, Zbysko was able to lunge towards the ropes and fell through the top and middle rope still locked in the sleeper. The two men crashed to the concrete floor and Greg lost his grip on the hold. Ref started the 10-count. Both men down. Both men stirred on the floor and made it to their feet as the count grew. Zbysko caught Greg with a shot to the ribs and slammed Greg's head into the ring apron. Zbysko then grabbed Greg in a side headlock and went to ram the top of Greg's head into the ring post but Greg shoved Zbysko off and Zbysko's head slammed into the post and Zbysko staggered away. Count hit 10 and the ref called for the bell. Greg came up from behind and nailed Zbysko with a forearm to the back. Zbysko stumbled forward and started to make his way back up the heel entrance aisle. Greg followed and jumped on Zbysko and started striking Zbysko. Zbysko fought back and the two men were brawling in the aisle. Fans cheering louder than at most things AWA in recent years. AWA officials and refs came out to break up the warring factions.

Marshall: I think the Larry Zbysko-Greg Gagne feud has just been reignited with a vengeance!

Blears: Think you're right, Lee!

END VIDEO

Nelson said he agreed with Marshall and Blears that the Zbysko-Gagne feud had truly been reignited. Said the intensity of the match was very hot and that the Zbysko-Gagne conflict will probably never truly see a resolution, only momentary ceasings of the hostilities.

Nelson then pointed out that Zbysko was also still dealing with Ken Patera.

Pic aired of the AWA Women's World Title with the caption: NEXT... RICHTER VS. KONG!

Commercials

TV MAIN EVENT: AWA WOMEN'S WORLD TITLE MATCH

Wendi Richter (WC) vs. Queen Kong

Kong came out to a modest negative reaction. Richter got a nice ovation coming to the ring.

Kong dominated the bout from the opening bell and tossed the Women's Champ around like a rag doll in the ring. After Kong battered Richter for a few minutes, Kong whipped Richter into the ropes and caught Richter coming off in a bearhug. Richter writhing in pain but would not submit. Richter was able to catch Kong with some head shots and then clapped her arms against the sides of Kong's head. Richter escaped Kong's grasp. Richter then moved in with a series of punches on Kong that staggered the big lovely. Richter then hit Kong with a series of leg kicks but Kong would not go down. Richter then hit Kong with a couple of dropkicks but Kong stayed on her feet. Richter then ran and hit the ropes and came off with a flying dropkick. Kong crashed back into the turnbuckles. Richter backed up and charged in and jumped on Kong but Kong caught Richter in another bearhug. Kong walked out of the corner with Richter in her grasp, spun around and charged backed into the corner, crushing Richter into the buckles. Kong let go of Richter and Richter crumpled to the mat. Kong pulled Richter away from the buckles and covered Richter. 1...2...thr... Richter managed to get a shoulder up. Crowd cheered. Kong snapped Richter up and threw Richter into the corner. Kong moved in and struck Richter with some punches and leaned into the champ. Kong backed into the other corner, raised her fist in the air, let out a gutteral yell and charged at Richter but Richter moved and Kong slammed front-first into the buckles. Richter staggered out by the ropes. Kong staggered backwards out of the corner and Richter dropped down on all fours behind Kong and Kong fell over Richter. Richter for the pin. 1...2... Kong kicked out. Crowd groaned.

Richter moved in with some kicks on Kong and then Richter went out on the apron and mounted the top buckle as Kong made it to her feet. Kong up and turned and Richter came off with a missle dropkick that connected. Kong crashed back to the mat. Crowd into the match. The bestial Kong slowly got to her feet as Richter circled around her. Kong up and walked into Richter's arms. Richter went to lift Kong up for a bodyslam.

Marshall: What the hell is Richter doing???!!!

Richter started to hoist Kong up but Kong's weight proved too much and Richter crumpled to the mat with Kong on top of her. Kong for the pin. 1...2...thr... Richter got a shoulder up. Crowd cheered. Kong up and peeled Richter up off the mat and bodyslammed the champ. Kong went over and climbed up on the middle buckle.

Marshall: If she hits Richter with a splash coming off that middle rope then we're gonna have a new Women's World Champion!

Blears: The force of such a blow would be too devastating for Richter to come back from.

Kong came off the middle buckle with a diving splash but Richter rolled out of the way and Kong crashed front-first to the mat. Crowd popped.

Both women down.

Ref started the 10-count.

Both women stirred and slowly made it to their feet. Richter stunned Kong with a dropkick that sent Kong spinning around facing away from Richter. Richter dropped down and chop blocked Kong in the back of the left knee area and Kong and Kong toppled to the mat and Richter rolled up on Kong for the pin. 1...2...3! Ref called for the bell as the fans cheered.

Show ended with the ref raising Richter's hand in victory and handing the title back to her.

WINNER: Richter - Pinfall - 10:29

END PROGRAM

 

[the autumn wind]

AWA WRESTLING ON ESPN - SHOWBOAT SPORTS PAVILION - LAS VEGAS, NV - AUGUST 1989

(2nd Taping Re-cap)

Match Commentator: Lee Marshall

Color Commentator: Lord James Blears

In-Ring Interviewer: Larry Nelson

Show Intro:

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

A huge announcement about the AWA from boss Verne Gagne coming up later in the program

TV MAIN EVENT: Col. DeBeers vs. Tommy Jammer

AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter makes an appearance

A message from Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey

Manny Fernandez wrestles

A look back at the attack last week on Brad Rheingans by World Tag Team Champions The Destruction Crew and Ken Patera coming to Brad's aid

Larry Zbysko sees action

Sam Houston, undefeated in AWA competition, wrestles

AND MORE!

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

The Guerrero Brothers (Hector & Mando) won a squash over Carroll O' Connor & Robert Reiner via pinfall when Mando pinned Reiner with a moonsault

In-Studio: Larry Nelson discussed the Guerreros victory and said they are still chasing the Destruction Crew for the AWA World Tag Team Titles.

Nelson then intro'd video from the end of last week's match between Brad Rheingans and Mike Enos of the tag champions the Destruction Crew and post-match comments from both sides.

VIDEO:

At the end of the match, Rheingans was on the offensive. Rheingans had worked Enos over and went to whip Enos into the ropes but Enos reversed and caught Rheingans coming off with a huge clothesline that flattened Rheingans. Enos put the boots to the downed Rheingans as a smiling Bloom looked on from ringside. Enos snapped Rheingans up, whipped Rheingans into the ropes and looked to catch Rheingans coming off with a backdrop but Rheingans leapfrogged Enos. Enos spun around and Rheingans nailed Enos with a Diamond Cutter (3/4 Bulldog Cutter). Crowd popped. Rheingans a little slow in making the cover. 1...2...thr... Kick out by Enos. Most in the crowd groaned. Rheingans slapped his hand on the mat in frustration. Both men up and Rheingans stunned Enos with a kick to the gut. Rheingans grabbed Enos and went for a belly-to-back suplex but Enos flipped out of Rheingans' grasp. Enos went to clothesline Rheingans but Rheingans ducked the move and came back and staggered Enos with a monster slap to the jaw. Slap was so hard that it spun Enos around facing away from Rheingans. Rheingans ran Enos into the ropes and rolled up Enos from behind for the pin. 1...2... Enos kicked Rheingans off. Crowd groaned (again). Bloom pacing like a caged animal at ringside. Both men to their feet and Rheingans caught Enos with a strike to the side of the head. Rheingans went to whip Enos into the ropes but Enos reversed and caught Rheingans coming off with a scoop powerslam. Enos made it to his feet. Bloom yelling for Enos to finish him off. Enos snatched up Rheingans and nailed Rheingans with a spinning crucifix toss. Rheingans slammed to the mat and flatlined. Enos for the cover and hooked the leg. 1...2...3! Ref called for the bell as many in the crowd booed but a minority cheered the victor (or just Rheingans losing).

Enos up and the ref raised his hand in victory as Bloom stepped into the ring and handed Enos his tag title belt. Quick pat on the back from Bloom. Bloom and Enos talked briefly with each other in the ring. Rheingans down and slowly recovering in the ring. Bloom and Enos then further delayed the Rheingans' recovery when they attacked Rheingans with their titles. Crowd heat grew as Bloom and Enos hammered away on the former Olympian with their belts. Marshall and Blears begged for someone to save Rheingans.

Crowd popped as Ken Patera, in his ring attire, charged down the face aisle and hit the ring. Enos and Bloom stopped the Brad beating and bailed to the safety of the floor as Patera stood in front of the injured Rheingans.

POST-MATCH COMMENTS:

The AWA Tag Champions the Destruction Crew were standing in their locker room in their ring duds.

Wayne Bloom had his title belt slung over his shoulder and a mic in hand. Enos stood next to him with his belt slung over his left shoulder.

Bloom: So, Ken Patera, you want to get involved in something that's not your business, eh?!

You know why we beat Brad Rheingans with the belts?! Because we felt like it! We enjoyed doing it! Violence for the sake of violence against the Olympic Golden Boy!

And you had to come in and ruin the beatdown party, Patera! That was not the wisest move!

Bloom handed the mic off to Enos.

Enos: It's like this! We do whatever we want and take whatever we want and we don't care who gets hurt!

Bloom laughed.

Enos: How did it feel to be struck with these belts, Rheingans?! Did it feel good?! These belts have many uses!

I know it felt good to me as I was slamming the belt into your body!

And then Ken Patera...Patera, brother, you just need to stay out of things that don't involve you!

Now you've crossed a line, Kenny! It's a line that should not be crossed!

And the next time we see you and Rheingans in the ring, we'll double our pleasure and beat the hell out of both of you with the straps!

More Bloom laughter.

Pic flipped to the locker room Patera and Rheingans were in. Rheingans was seated and in great pain. He had the straps of his singlet pulled down.

Patera was in his ring attire and had a mic in hand.

Patera: Destruction Crew, I want you to take a close look at what you've done!

Rheingans was wincing in pain as he held his body where it hurt the most.

Patera: Brad's really banged up! What you two did after the match was uncalled for! But it was not shocking since it was you two that launched the attack on a man who was down and defenseless!

And let me give you guys a brief history lesson! You guys defeated Brad Rheingans and Greg Gagne for the tag team titles! Greg had to substitute for me because I had been injured by Larry Zbysko!

But now that I'm back and ready to go once again here in the AWA, I'm putting you on notice! This will pass! Brad will overcome the injuries sustained in the assault!

And we're gunning for you, Destruction Crew!

You opened a door that should not have been opened! You've got our attention! And there's gonna be hell...to...pay in blood and treasure! The treasure being those World Tag Team Titles around your waists!

So, you boys better get prepared to feel the wrath of Ken Patera and Brad Rheingans!

END VIDEO

Pic aired of Manny Fernandez with the caption: NEXT... THE RAGIN' BULL!

Commercials

Manny Fernandez won a squash match over James Belushi via pinfall with his Flying Burrito (flying double forearm smash) finisher

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Manny Fernandez, Baron Von Raschke keeps asking for one more match with you. You've said you won't give it to him even though you two had a great match the last time you faced each other.

So, the burning question is...will you change your mind and wrestle him one more time?

Manny: Larry Nelson, it's time for Baron Von Raschke to hang 'em up! He needs to go! He's had his day in the sun!

Nelson: Is that a no?

Manny walked around in the ring for a moment.

Manny: You know what? Because I need to move on to other challenges, just to get that old goose-stepping German off my back, I'll give him the match!

Crowd cheered Manny even though he's a heel.

Nelson: Listen to this crowd!

Manny: The cheers of these fans mean zero to me! They can all go take a flying leap for all I care!

I just want to be done with Von Raschke!

Baron! You've got your wish! One last match with the 'Ragin' Bull'! Just one!

And when it's over, I never want to see his ugly face again!

I wash my hands of him when the match is done!

Nelson: You heard it, fans! Manny Fernandez will wrestle Baron Von Raschke one last time!

Fans cheered.

In-Studio: Larry Nelson discussed Manny accepting the Baron's challenge for one more match.

Nelson then intro'd video from the end of the last Tommy Jammer-Col. DeBeers match followed by comments from DeBeers.

VIDEO:

(From AWA All-Star Wrestling): At the end of the match, DeBeers worked over Jammer and appeared to have Jammer on the brink of defeat.

DeBeers whipped Jammer into the ropes and caught him coming off with the kitchen sink. Jammer down and in a bad way.

Crowd popped as Tom Zenk, still wearing his facemask, made his way down to ringside. DeBeers didn't see him.

DeBeers hoisted Jammer up for a suplex and the ref looked up. Zenk reached into the ring and pulled DeBeers foot out from under him. DeBeers lost his footing and fell to the mat with Jammer on top of him for the cover.

1...2...thr... DeBeers got his foot on the bottom rope to break the pin try. Crowd groaned.

DeBeers got up and looked down at Zenk and the two started exchanging words. While that was going on, Jammer was recovering in the ring. After the verbal exchange between Zenk and DeBeers, Jammer had gotten to his feet behind the Colonel.

DeBeers turned and Jammer stunned DeBeers by rolling him up in a small package for the pin. 1...2...3!

Crowd popped as the ref called for the bell.

A seething DeBeers to his feet in the ring. Jammer to his feet and the ref raised Jammer's hand in victory to the delight of the crowd.

DeBeers glared down at Zenk and Zenk moved towards the face entrance aisle looking back at DeBeers.

Pic flipped to Col. DeBeers. DeBeers was standing in his ring attire with mic in hand in front of the AWA logo.

DeBeers: Tommy Jammer, I heard you went out and partied hard to celebrate your victory over me a few weeks ago.

Ha! What a joke!

You only beat me because Tom Zenk interfered on your behalf!

In other words, Jammer, you had to cheat to beat me! Where's the sportsmanship in that?!

Tonight will be different! I will show everyone out there that you can't beat me in a straight up mano y mano match!

I hope you enjoyed that party, Jammer, because there will be no partying for you after this match!

You'll just be sitting in a tub of ice to help numb the pain after I put your body through the ringer!

And Tom Zenk! Son, don't even think of getting involved this time because it will end badly for you if you do! History will not repeat itself!

END VIDEO

Pic aired of Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey with the caption: NEXT... THE SHEIK SPEAKS!

Commercials

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

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd pre-recorded video comments from Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey.

Kaissey was standing in the Showboat casino in his Arab garb with mic in hand.

Kaissey: Look at these infidels in this casino! They have come here to foolishly gamble, drink to excess and play dirty games with each other!

They lead pointless, meaningless lives! I would like to force everyone of them to read the Koran! Then their lives would have meaning!

I am here to tell you that my life has great meaning! I have been a manager for years! I build men up and make them champions!

And now I have a man I am about to unleash on the AWA! He's all man and a yard wide! And I will manage him to the AWA World Championship!

I've talked about him for months now!

The wait is finally over!

I will be introducing my newest wrestler on AWA Wrestling right here on ESPN next week!

He has arrived! And the AWA will never be the same because of it!

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Nelson talked about Kaissey's man finally arriving next week and urged fans to tune in to see what all of Kaissey's talk is about.

Nelson then sent it back to the Showboat for the next match.

Larry Zbysko won a squash match over Tim Conway via pinfall with a piledriver

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Larry Zbysko...

Zbysko: Shut up, Nelson! Just stand there and hold the mic and try not to make a fool of yourself!

I wanted to say to all these idiots out here, and that includes you, Nelson, Lee Marshall and Lord James Blears, that Ken Patera is coming out here trying to be the savior of his buddy Brad Rheingans!

Well, Patera better pay attention to priority #1...and that's me!

Crowd booed.

Zbysko: You'd better be focused on me! Because once you lose focus then it's all over for you!

I'm a master at ring psychology! When it comes to mind games, no one does it better than the 'Living Legend'!

More boos.

Zbysko: If Patera's distracted in any way, then the advantage, a huge advantage, falls to me!

No one can beat me when they're not totally focused on the task at hand!

So, Patera, you be the Skipper to Rheingans' Gilligan! You stay focused on that! And I will systematically and with great precision take you apart when we wrestle and have my hand raised in victory!

More boos.

Nelson: Larry Zbysko, everybody!

Pic aired of Sam Houston with the caption: NEXT... CAN HE REMAIN PERFECT?!

Commercials

Sam Houston won a squash match over Leon Redbone via pinfall with his bulldog finisher

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Sam Houston! These fans have really taken to you since you arrived in the AWA!

Houston: They have, Larry. And it's great to know they're behind me.

Nelson: You're still undefeated since arriving in the AWA. What's the secret?

Houston: No secret, really. Just good preparation and training.

Nelson: Who do you train with?

Houston: He's a pro wrestler.

Nelson: Can I ask who?

Houston: Not gonna say right now. But he's had a great career himself. I believe it's important to learn from the best and this guy is a top caliber wrestler.

Nelson: Any chance of meeting him?

Houston: At some point in the future I'm sure I'll introduce him to the AWA.

Nelson: I'm intrigued. Sam Houston, everybody!

Crowd cheered as Sam acknowledged them with a wave of his cowboy hat.

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

Commercials

INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Would you 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 solid ovation. Sarge made his way down the face aisle.

He was in his ring attire and had the belt around his waist. Sarger handed out little American flags on the way to the ring.

Sarge climbed in the ring and saluted the fans.

Nelson: They love you, Sarge!

Sarge: I salute them, Larry!

Sarge gave another salute to the fans.

Nelson: The situation with Jerry Lawler is getting hotter by the day.

A conclusion to all this controversy over who the undisputed AWA World Champion is has to be on the horizon.

Sarge: There will indeed be a conclusion to all this one day! The question is when will it happen?

When will this matter between Lawler and myself be settled once and for all?

Nelson: What is your mindset at this time?

Sarge: I've got to stay focused, Larry! No outside distractions! I've got to be 100% dedicated to getting the job done and becoming the undisputed AWA World Champion! You see, it's like thi...

Nelson: Wait a minute! Here comes Jerry Lawler!

Most in the crowd booed but Lawler also had his supporters.

Lawler came down the heel aisle in his ring attire with his version of the AWA belt around his waist and carrying his crown.

Lawler stepped into the ring and walked up to Sarge and Nelson.

Nelson: Jerry Lawler! This is not your interview time!

Lawler: I really don't care if it's not my interview time!

See this crown, Sarge?

Sarge: Yes.

Lawler: It's a symbol. It shows I'm a king. I'm royalty. Wrestling royalty, to be exact.

Sarge: What are you getting at?

Lawler: This belt also is a symbol. It'a a symbol that I'm the World Champion.

Sarge: So am I.

Lawler: Whatever.

These two things: the crown and the belt, show I'm deserving to be World Champion.

Sarge: What are you saying, Lawler?

Lawler: The World Title you're wearing is not valid because you didn't beat me for it and I never lost the title.

Sarge: This argument again?!

Lawler: I just came out to say that I should be the only recognized AWA World Champion because I am wrestling royalty...and you're just a Gomer Pyle!

Sarge: What did you call me?!

Lawler: You heard me, Sarge.

Maybe it's time for you to hand that belt over to me and get back to work shining Sgt. Carter's boots and washing the skid marks out of his underwear.

Sarge got heated.

Sarge: Let me tell you something, Lawler!

I served my country and I served it proudly! I'm proud to be a Marine! Once a marine always a marine!

Crowd cheered.

Sarge: You need to watch what you say about my service to this great nation of ours!

Lawler: Okay, Sarge. I'll back off that subject since it's a sore one for you.

But you're still a Gomer!

Sarge lunged at Lawler and Lawler quickly backed off and Nelson got in between the two.

Lawler bailed to the safety of the floor and immediately made his way back up the heel aisle to a mixed crowd reaction.

Sarge: Lawler! Let's settle this right now!

Crowd popped big time. Lawler turned in the heel aisle and looked back.

Sarge: Come on! Right now!

Lawler looked on for a few more seconds before turning and disappearing to the back.

Sarge: Lawler! Next time we meet I'm gonna take that crown and shove it right down your throat!

Another big crowd pop.

Marshall and Blears discussed the Lawler-Sarge situation.

Pic aired of the AWA logo with the caption: NEXT... A MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT!

Commercials

In-Studio: Larry Nelson said it was time for the big announcement concerning the AWA that Verne Gagne promised last week.

Nelson intro'd the video.

VIDEO:

AWA boss Verne Gagne was in an office standing with a gentleman.

Verne: Hello. This is Verne Gagne of the AWA.

With me is the mayor of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, John Norquist.

I am pleased to announce that Milwaukee has been chosen as the city to host Super Clash 4.

The event will be taking place on Wednesday, October 18 at the Mecca Arena.

John, I want to thank you and the city of Milwaukee for all the great hospitality you have shown us during this time.

Norquist: It's our pleasure, Verne.

The city of Milwaukee is a growing and dynamic city.

And we are excited to be hosting a big event like Super Clash 4.

Verne: We're excited to be having this historic event in Milwaukee.

The AWA has a long, rich history here.

Norquist: It's the home of The Crusher.

Verne smiled.

Verne: It certainly is.

And when we were looking at cities to host this big event, Milwaukee just seemed like the right choice.

Norquist: You won't be disappointed.

Milwaukee is a wrestling town.

Verne: Super Clash 4 is coming and it's going to be a great night of professional wrestling.

Thank you, Mayor Norquist.

The pair shook hands.

Norquist: Thank you, Verne.

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Larry Nelson said it promises to be a huge event and that more information about how fans can attend SC 4 will be coming starting next week.

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

Commercials

TV MAIN EVENT: Col. DeBeers vs. Tommy Jammer

Jammer started out fast but DeBeers quickly took over the match and dominated the rest of the way. At one point, DeBeers had Jammer pinned but pulled Jammer up by the hair at the count of 2.

After several minutes of a brutal beatdown by DeBeers, the Col. finished Jammer off with his face-first piledriver finisher to score the pinfall victory.

AFTER THE MATCH:

As the ref checked on the downed Jammer, DeBeers stalked around in the ring.

Marshall: Why isn't DeBeers leaving?

Blears: Good question, Lee.

As Jammer started to recover, DeBeers reached into the side pocket of his camo pants and pulled it out.

Marshall: DeBeers has just pulled out the coal miner's glove!

DeBeers put the glove on and waited like a cat ready to maul its prey. Fans screaming for Jammer to turn around.

A shaky Jammer to his feet. Just as DeBeers was about to blast Jammer with the loaded glove the crowd popped as Tom Zenk, minus facemask, charged down the face entrance aisle and hit the ring. DeBeers went to hit Zenk with his coal miner's glove hand but missed and Zenk hit DeBeers with a shot to the jaw that dropped the Colonel. DeBeers quickly rolled out of the ring to the safety of the floor. DeBeers went over and grabbed a chair from inside the ringside barricade and threw it in the ring. Zenk snapped up the chair and sat in it and gestured for the Col. to get back in the ring and fight. DeBeers arrogantly waved off Zenk and immediately headed back up the heel entrance aisle as Zenk got off the chair and looked on from the ring.

Zenk gestured for the ring mic from Larry Nelson and got it.

Zenk stalking around in the ring.

Zenk: DeBeers! I promise you this! If you use that glove on any other wrestler...I am going to end your career either in this ring or on the street!

Crowd cheered as the program ended.

WINNER: DeBeers - Pinfall - 6:27

END PROGRAM

 

[the autumn wind]

​

AWA ALL-STAR WRESTLING SYNDICATED TAPING RESULTS - HAMMOND, IN - HAMMOND CIVIC CENTER

In-Studio Host: Larry Nelson

Match Commentator: Lee Marshall

Color Commentator: Lord James Blears

2nd Taping Re-cap

Show Intro

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

AWA boss Verne Gagne has a major announcement

TV MAIN EVENT: Jerry Blackwell vs. Tommy Rich

Disputed AWA World Champion Jerry Lawler wrestles

Badd Co. sees action

Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey has an announcement

A look back at last week's attack on Brad Rheingans by the Destruction Crew and Ken Patera coming to Rheingans' aid plus comments from both sides

Baron Von Raschke sees action

A look back at the AWA debut of 'The Trooper' Del Wilkes

AND MORE!

Nelson then sent it to the arena in Hammond, IN:

Magnificent Mimi won a squash over Princess Stephanie via pinfall with a missle dropkick

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson:Magnificent Mimi scores another victory here in the AWA.

Mimi, you saw it. Wendi Richter retained the AWA Women's World Title in a grueling match against the much larger Queen Kong.

Do you think you're next in line for a title shot?

Mimi:If the match-makers in the AWA have an ounce of decency I should be the Richter's next opponent!

She may have toppled the beast known as Queen Kong, but she is not gonna beat me!

Crowd booed.

Nelson:You sound very confident.

Mimi:Why shouldn't I be?!

I mean, look at me! I'm drop dead gorgeous! I have a body that's smokin' hot! And I'm one of the best female athletes on the planet!

The next time Richter and the Magnificent One collide she will walk out of the ring as the former...FORMER...AWA Women's World Champion!

Nelson:The Magnificent Mimi, everybody!

Announcers briefly discussed the Mimi-Richter situation. Marshall said Mimi has a rep for backing up her talk.

In-Studio: Nelson discussed Mimi and how she poses a real threat to Richter's title reign.

Nelson then intro'd video from the debut match of 'The Trooper' Del Wilkes.

VIDEO:

DEBUT MATCH: 'The Trooper' Del Wilkes

Wilkes got a nice ovation coming to the ring

Wilkes won a squash match over Dennis Stamp via submission when he made Stamp pass out in a double nerve hold on Stamp's traps


In-Studio: Nelson talked about Wilkes' devastating submission hold and how hard it will be for wrestler's to escape if caught in it.

Said Wilkes looks like he's gonna be a major star in the AWA in a short period of time.

Pic aired of the AWA logo with the caption: NEXT... MORE GREAT AWA ACTION!

Commercials

Badd Co. (w/ Mgr. Dallas Page) won a squash over Lawrence McCutcheon and Cullen Bryant when Tanaka pinned Bryant after a slingshot DDT

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson:'Diamond' Dallas Page, you're team looked like a well-oiled machine in that match.

DDP:They always run like a well-oiled machine.

Tanaka and Diamond are two great wrestlers in their own right.

But they just needed a little guidance to put things together. Now, they're one of the top tag teams in the world. And my guidance is what put them there.

Nelson:Have you figured out who's playing the mind games with you and Badd Company?

DDP:No. We haven't had time to think about it lately because the contracts are signed to face the tag champs the Destruction Crew with the belts on the line.

Nelson:And $25 grand of your money.

DDP:Ha! Nelson, that money's not going anywhere! But those tag team belts are coming our way!

Nelson:That remains to be seen... What's this?!

DDP and Badd Co. looked over and saw a buxom blonde woman in a red dress making her way to ringside. The woman climbed up on the apron.

DDP:Not more of this, man! Whoever's behind this needs to give it up!

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

Woman:I was told to deliver this message to you.

DDP (annoyed):What is it? Let me have it.

The woman delivered and let DDP have it with a kick to the balls.

DDP:AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

DDP dropped to his knees as the fans popped big time.

Badd Co. glared angrily at the woman but did not go after her. They turned their attention to their manager as the woman left the ring for the floor and disappeared down the safety of the face entrance aisle.

Nelson:Well, that was a surprise!

Diamond: Shut up, Nelson! We're getting tired of this!

Whoever is behind all this stuff needs to reveal themselves...NOW!

Ow! My family jewels!

Badd Co. helped DDP to his feet and DDP clutched his goods.

In-Studio: Nelson talked about the escalation of the head games being played against DDP and Badd Co. Nelson wondered who was behind it all.
'
Pic aired of Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey with the caption: NEXT... THE SHEIK SPEAKS!

Commercials/Market-Specific promos for upcoming house shows/Generic promos for non-house show cities

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd pre-recorded comments from Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey.

VIDEO:

Kaissey was standing in the Showboat casino in his Arab garb and holding a mic.

Kaissey: Look at these infidels in this casino! They have come here to foolishly gamble, drink to excess and play dirty games with each other!

They lead pointless, meaningless lives! I would like to force everyone of them to read the Koran! Then their lives would have meaning!

I am here to tell you that my life has great meaning! I have been a manager for years! I build men up and make them champions!

And now I have a man I am about to unleash on the AWA! He's all man and a yard wide! And I will manage him to the AWA World Championship!

I've talked about him for months now!

The wait is finally over!

I will be introducing my newest wrestler on AWA Wrestling right here on ESPN next week!

He has arrived! And the AWA will never be the same because of it!

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Nelson said we'll finally find out who this mystery man is that Kaissey has been promising for months and told fans to make sure to tune in AWA Wrestling on ESPN next week.

Nelson then sent it back to the ring in Hammond, IN.

Baron Von Raschke won a squash over Jim Youngblood via submission with his Iron Claw finisher

* POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson:Baron, we don't have much time.

What do you have to say about the situation with Manny Fernandez?

Baron:Manny Fernandez! It's all up to you! You control our destiny!

Let's make one final match happen between us, Fernandez!

As they say: the ball is in your court!

Sign on the dotted line and we'll make it official!

Baron did the claw gesture with his right hand.

Fans cheered.

Nelson:Baron Von Raschke, everybody!

(* This show would have aired the same week as the previous AWA on ESPN show so that's the reason Von Raschke is still talking about wanting to fight Fernandez in one last match and Fernandez accepting on the other show. The order they would air in just depends on when the syndicated show aired in a given market. That's the reason for the inconsistency.)

Pic aired of Jerry Lawler with the caption: NEXT... IT'S LAWLER TIME!

Commercials

Jerry Lawler won a squash over Dennis Harrah via pinfall with his piledriver finisher

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson:Jerry Lawler! Dennis Harrah is a large man and you made short work of him! Impressive!

Lawler:I know it was impressive, Larry. You don't have to tell me!

Nelson:Now, about the matter with Sgt. Slaughter.

Lawler:Look, the only thing these people need to know is that I never lost this title. Sarge is a fake World Champion.

But, the only way I can make my reign official is to beat Sarge in a match to decide who the undisputed AWA World Champion is.

The bigwigs in this promotion seem to be all in for Slaughter. They didn't like it when I beat Curt Hennig last year to win the AWA Title and they didn't like it when I retained this belt against their 'Chosen One' Kerry Von Erich.

I had a falling out with people at the top and they decided to go ahead and just create another AWA World Title and put it on whomever they wanted. First, LarryZbysko won it in a Battle Royal created out of thin air and then Slaughter beat Zbysko for it. That hardly sounds like a deserving World Champion.

The day is coming, Nelson, when this will be decided. And I'm gonna become the undisputed AWA World Champion and it will be the fans' pleasure to have me as their standard bearer here in the AWA.

Video aired showing the tag champs the Destruction Crew beating Brad Rheingans with the belts with the caption: NEXT... CHAMPIONSHIP BEATDOWN!

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd video footage of last week's attack on Brad Rheingans after Rheingans' match with Mike Enos of the the Destruction Crew plus post-attack comments from the two sides.

VIDEO:

(From AWA Wrestling on ESPN): Enos went to clothesline Rheingans but Rheingans ducked the move and came back and staggered Enos with a monster slap to the jaw. Slap was so hard that it spun Enos around facing away from Rheingans. Rheingans ran Enos into the ropes and rolled up Enos from behind for the pin. 1...2... Enos kicked Rheingans off. Crowd groaned (again). Bloom pacing like a caged animal at ringside. Both men to their feet and Rheingans caught Enos with a strike to the side of the head. Rheingans went to whip Enos into the ropes but Enos reversed and caught Rheingans coming off with a scoop powerslam. Enos made it to his feet. Bloom yelling for Enos to finish him off. Enos snatched up Rheingans and nailed Rheingans with a spinning crucifix toss. Rheingans slammed to the mat and flatlined. Enos for the cover and hooked the leg. 1...2...3. Ref called for the bell as many in the crowd booed but a minority cheered the victor (or just Rheingans losing).

Enos up and the ref raised his hand in victory as Bloom stepped into the ring and handed Enos his tag title belt. Quick pat on the back from Bloom. Bloom and Enos talked briefly with each other in the ring. Rheingans down and slowly recovering in the ring. Bloom and Enos then further delayed the Rheingans' recovery when they attacked Rheingans with their titles. Crowd heat grew as Bloom and Enos hammered away on the former Olympian with their belts. Marshall and Blears begged for someone to save Rheingans.

Crowd popped as Ken Patera, in his ring attire, charged down the face aisle and hit the ring. Enos and Bloom stopped the Brad beating and bailed to the safety of the floor as Patera stood in front of the injured Rheingans.

Brief, tense standoff between the two parties before Patera checked on Rheingans.

POST-ATTACK COMMENTS:

The AWA Tag Champions the Destruction Crew were standing in their locker room in their ring duds.

Wayne Bloom had his title belt slung over his shoulder and a mic in hand. Enos stood next to him with his belt slung over his left shoulder.

Bloom:So, Ken Patera, you want to get involved in something that's not your business, eh?!

You know why we beat Brad Rheingans with the belts?! Because we felt like it! We enjoyed doing it! Violence for the sake of violence against the Olympic Golden Boy!

And you had to come in and ruin the beatdown party, Patera! That was not the wisest move!

Bloom handed the mic off to Enos.

Enos:It's like this! We do whatever we want and take whatever we want and we don't care who gets hurt!

Bloom laughed.

Enos:How did it feel to be struck with these belts, Rheingans?! Did it feel good?! These belts have many uses!

I know it felt good to me as I was slamming the belt into your body!

And then Ken Patera...Patera, brother, you just need to stay out of things that don't involve you!

Now you've crossed a line, Kenny! It's a line that should not be crossed!

And the next time we see you and Rheingans in the ring, we'll double our pleasure and beat the hell out of both of you with the straps!

More Bloom laughter.

Pic flipped to the locker room Patera and Rheingans were in. Rheingans was seated and in great pain. He had the straps of his singlet pulled down.

Patera was in his ring attire and had a mic in hand.

Patera:Destruction Crew, I want you to take a close look at what you've done!

Rheingans was wincing in pain as he held his body where it hurt the most.

Patera:Brad's really banged up! What you two did after the match was uncalled for! But it was not shocking since it was you two that launched the attack on a man who was down and defenseless!

And let me give you guys a brief history lesson! You guys defeated Brad Rheingans and Greg Gagne for the tag team titles! Greg had to substitute for me because I had been injured by Larry Zbysko!

But now that I'm back and ready to go once again here in the AWA, I'm putting you on notice! This will pass! Brad will overcome the injuries sustained in the assault!

And we're gunning for you, Destruction Crew!

You opened a door that should not have been opened! You've got our attention! And there's gonna be hell...to...pay in blood and treasure! The treasure being those World Tag Team Titles around your waists!

So, you boys better get prepared to feel the wrath of Ken Patera and Brad Rheingans!

END VIDEO

Pic aired of the AWA logo with the caption: NEXT... THE BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!

Commercials/Market-Specific promos for upcoming house shows/Generic promos for non-house show cities

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd a huge annoucement from AWA boss Verne Gagne:

VIDEO:

AWA boss Verne Gagne was in an office standing with a gentleman.

Verne:Hello. This is Verne Gagne of the AWA.

With me is the mayor of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, John Norquist.

I am pleased to announce that Milwaukee has been chosen as the city to host Super Clash 4.

The event will be taking place on Wednesday, October 18 at the Mecca Arena.

John, I want to thank you and the city of Milwaukee for all the great hospitality you have shown us during this time.

Norquist: It's our pleasure, Verne.

The city of Milwaukee is a growing and dynamic city.

And we are excited to be hosting a big event like Super Clash 4.

Verne:We're excited to be having this historic event in Milwaukee.

The AWA has a long, rich history here.

Norquist:It's the home of The Crusher.

Verne smiled.

Verne:It certainly is.

And when we were looking at cities to host this big event, Milwaukee just seemed like the right choice.

Norquist:You won't be disappointed.

Milwaukee is a wrestling town.

Verne:Super Clash 4 is coming and it's going to be a great night of professional wrestling.

Thank you, Mayor Norquist.

The pair shook hands.

Norquist:Thank you, Verne.

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Larry Nelson said it promises to be a huge event and that more information about how fans can attend SC 4 will be coming starting next week.

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

Commercials

TV MAIN EVENT: Jerry Blackwell vs. Tommy Rich

Marshall and Blears discussed Rich throwing a cup of soda on him on AWA Wrestling on ESPN and Marshall confronting Rich and the two almost coming to blows. Marshall pointed out that the only thing protecting Rich was Rich pulling Nelson in front of him as a shield.

Marshall:Pardon my language, Lord James! Tommy Rich is a cowardly bastard!

Blears:No offense taken and you are absolutely correct about Rich, Lee.

Blackwell came out to a good ovation.

Match saw Blackwell have the upper hand early, but an eye poke by Rich gave the blond loudmouth the advantage.

Match turned into a see-saw affair until the end. Rich had the upper hand and went to whip Blackwell into the ropes but Blackwell reversed and steamrolled Rich coming off which got a big pop from the crowd. Rich down on the mat. Blackwell waiting for Rich to get to his feet. A shaky Rich up and Blackwell nailed Rich with a standing dropkick.

Blears:It's amazing that a man that big can deliver a well-executed dropkick like that.

Rich crashed to the mat and rolled out on the apron and was laying down facing the crowd. Blackwell went to go after Rich but the ref ordered Blackwell to stand back and Blackwell did. Ref started the 10-count. Blackwell went to go after Rich again but the ref intercepted the big man and the two had words. While that was going on, Rich reached into his tights and pulled out a foreign object that was caught on camera. (Amazing how that always happens!) Rich crawled over the bottom rope back into the ring and got to his knees. He was concealing the object in his right hand. Blackwell went over and reached down to pull Rich up. As Blackwell was pulling Rich to his feet, Rich stunned Blackwell with a foreign object shot to the jaw. Blackwell crumpled to the mat. Rich for the cover and concealed the object by his right leg. 1...2...3! Ref got up and called for the bell. Rich up and quickly dropped the foreign object in the back of his tights. Ref turned and raised Rich's hand in victory. Fans screaming for the ref to cop a feel on the back of Rich's tights. Rich strutted around the ring in victory because the booker said he had to.

Marshall:He is not getting away with this!

Marshall tossed the head set and climbed into the ring. Marshall started talking to the ref and gestured that Rich used a foreign object on Blackwell. Rich started arguing to the contrary. Blackwell recovering in the ring. Rich turned and started having heated words with Marshall. Big mistake. Ref standing behind Rich and saw the foreign object in the back of Rich's tights and the ref reached in (that sounds sooooooooooooooooooo wrong) and pulled out the protrusion (gets even funnier!). Ref showed Rich the object and called Larry Nelson up on the apron. Marshall left the ring for the floor and headed back to the announcers' table. Rich started arguing with the ref.

Nelson:I have been informed by the referee that he has ordered the match to be re-started!

Crowd cheered.

Blackwell to his feet. Ref called for the bell to re-start the match. Rich kept arguing with the ref for a few more seconds and turned and was greeted by a running clothesline from Blackwell. Rich crashed to the mat. Crowd popped. Blackwell ran and hit the ropes and came off with his diving splash finisher on Rich. The cover. 1...2...3! Ref called for the bell as the fans cheered as the program went off the air.

WINNER: Blackwell - Pinfall - 9:12

END PROGRAM

 

[the autumn wind]

SUMMER 1989

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

The monthly TV tapings were in the books.

Verne Gagne was sitting at his desk and looking at the numbers for the three most recent house shows where Jerry Lawler vs. Sgt. Slaughter in a match to determine the undisputed AWA World Champion was the main event.

Unlike the good news of the previous three house shows in Chicago (3,517), Green Bay (2,966) and Minneapolis- St. Paul (4,374), the news was not as good out West.

Verne kept looking at the numbers on the sheet as if he believed somehow staring at them long enough would change them for the better in Phoenix and 'Frisco.

The attendance for the houses were:

8/11 - San Francisco, CA - Cow Palace: 1,481

8/12 - Salt Lake City, UT - Salt Palace: 3,064

8/13 - Phoenix, AZ - Veteran's Memorial Coliseum: 2,001

Verne finally put the paper down and stared off into the distance. Lawler-Sarge wasn't going to be the guarantee of vastly improved ticket sales everywhere.

Verne took solace in the fact that he booked Super Clash 4 in Milwaukee, an AWA stronghold in the upper Midwest. The success of the Lawler-Sarge program in Chicago, Green Bay and Minneapolis-St. Paul gave him some peace of mind.

He believed Super Clash 4 in Milwaukee would be the AWA's biggest success since 1986.

In reality, it's more likely he prayed it would be...

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Verne was sitting in his office on an extremely warm summer morning in the Twin-Cities.

Also in his office were son Greg Gagne, TV producer Al DeRusha and Wally Karbo.

Verne (sighed): Well, two of the three houses weren't good out West. Salt Lake City did a solid number but that's where the good news ends.

Greg, what was the crowd like in San Francisco?

Greg: In every other city we've taken the Lawler-Slaughter match, the crowds have been super hot. That includes Salt Lake and Phoenix.

But San Francisco was another story. The crowd was pretty dead for the entire show. They came alive in spots during some of the matches but that's about it. Maybe we should re-think booking San Francisco for the immediate future.

Wally: I second that.

Verne nodded his head in agreement.

Verne: But the other two houses were hot crowds.

Greg: Very. They were even hot for the curtain jerker between Akio Sato and myself and they stayed hot for the entire show.

Al: I think you need to look at this as a glass half full scenario, Verne.

Verne: How so?

Al: Well...business is up. We just hit a couple of speed bumps along the way.

I think Milwaukee will be a strong house for Super Clash.

Wally: We have a few more dates here in August, right?

Verne: Yes.

Greg: Fargo and Sioux Falls are doing well in ticket sales but Omaha is lagging.

Verne: Well, let's keep our fingers crossed. Those shows are still a couple of weeks away.

Wally: And let's not forget that Vegas did a great house for the TV's.

Verne: We did excellent business in Vegas. Will be interesting to see what the ticket sales are for the September re-match between Lawler and Sarge there. Gotta try and hold the momentum heading into Super Clash.

Al: Business was up even in 'Frisco and Phoenix, Verne. Even though the uptick in business was small, the match did move the needle some in those places.

Verne: You're right.

Greg: Anything else you need to tell us right now.

Verne: Yes. I wanted to let you guys know that I am postponing the Pro Wrestling Heritage Championship Tournament until next February. I think having that tourney in November would be too close to Super Clash 4. It's too much too fast.

Wally: Have you made a decision on where you're gonna hold the event?

Verne: Yes, I've got Eric Bischoff working on the deal right now.

Al: And...what city is it?

Verne: I feel we need to have the event in a warm weather climate. I'm hoping some fans will travel from cold weather cities like ours and go.

Greg: So the Capital Centre in Landover, Maryland is off the table?

Verne: It is.

The city I've chosen is one we've never worked before.

It's Los Angeles; Inglewood to be exact.

Al: What's the arena down there?

Verne: The Fabulous Forum. It's the home of the Lakers and Kings.

Wally: That's a big arena.

Verne: I know. But I'm banking on 5,000 tickets being sold for the tournament. We'll film the event and market it as a two-hour highlights tape like the Crockett Cup.

Greg: Still gonna do it as a one day event with two sessions?

Verne: I might gamble and try and make it a two night event.

Al: That first night could be awful risky for ticket sales.

Verne: I'm thinking of one ticket for both sessions. We'd have to jack up the price. But it might be worth the risk.

Greg: Are you looking at any outside names to bring in to possibly help move tickets?

Verne: Yes.

Greg: Who?

Verne: I'm gonna contact the folks in Atlanta. I'm gonna see if we can cut a deal to bring in Ric Flair...

Al: To face our World Champion?

Verne: Either that or also try and bring in Flair's current nemesis Terry Funk.

Or maybe have Flair wrestle one of our younger underneath guys to give them a much needed rub.

Wally: That would cost a lot of money. Not sure we have it. Gotta remember you're not dealing with Crockett anymore; you're dealing with a corporation.

Verne: It doesn't hurt to check.

Greg: We could take a big financial hit with a move like that. Is it worth even considering, dad?

The room fell silent.

Verne's plan could further push the AWA toward the cliff of financial ruin.

It was looking more and more like only a miracle resurgence could save the AWA now.

Unless...

TO BE CONTINUED...

 

[the autumn wind]

SUMMER 1989

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST.LOUIS PARK, MN

It was the third week of August...

AWA chief Verne Gagne sat at his desk in his office and was deep in thought.

Verne contemplated something for a while and then picked up the phone and dialed.

Female Voice: Barry Shenkarow's office. This is the secretary. How may I help you?

Verne: Is it possible to speak to Barry?

Secretary: May I ask who is calling?

Verne: This is Verne Gagne.

Secretary: He's in. Let me see if he's available to take your call right now.

Verne waited for what seemed like an eternity.

And then...

Barry: Verne! How are you?!

Verne: I'm okay. Yourself?

Barry: Doing good.

I'm assuming you're calling because you've come to some sort of decision about selling the AWA to me.

Verne: I have.

Barry, I need to be up front with you.

Barry: Alright.

Verne: I'm willing to sell the AWA to you, but not at the price you're offering.

Barry: That would be...what...think it was $1.6 million.

Verne: I believe the company is worth more than that.

Barry: How much more?

Verne: $2.3 million.

Silence...

Barry: Hmmm... $2.3. million.

Verne: That is correct.

Pause...

Barry: Tell you what, Verne. I'll give you $1.8 million for the entire company lock, stock and barrel.

Verne: I just don't think I can go that low, Barry.

Barry: Do you have a counter-offer?

Verne thought for a moment.

Verne: How about $2.15 million?

Barry: We're not too far apart.

But Verne, you have to remember something. The AWA is in bad shape right now.

What was your original asking price again?

Verne: $3 million.

Barry: That's definitely not gonna happen. I don't think it's even close to worth that much right now or even $2 million, quite frankly.

Verne: So you're not willing to hit the $2 million mark?

Barry: I just can't do it. I'm sticking with $1.8 million for the whole shootin' match.

Silence...

Verne: I can't go under two, Barry. I'm sorry.

Barry (sighs): Well, Verne, them I'm afraid I'm gonna have to walk away from any deal.

It's $1.8 million or nothing for me. I've raised the earlier offer of $1.6 million by $200,000 dollars. Not upping it anymore. This is a wrestling promotion, not an NFL franchise.

Verne: Barry, I'm gonna have to respectfully decline your offer.

Barry: Then that's it. I'm walking away from the table for good, Verne.

Verne: I understand, Barry.

Barry: You sure you won't do $1.8 mil?

Verne: I just feel it's worth more than that. I've poured my life into this business.

Barry: I know you have. But I just can't pull the trigger on a deal.

Verne: I want to thank you for your time, Barry. Sorry we could not reach an agreement.

Barry: It was great to meet a wrestling legend like you. Disappointed we could not do business.

Verne: Take care, Barry. And good luck to the Jets*.

Barry: I agree: Go Jets.

I wish you the best.

Verne: Bye.

Barry: Bye.

With that, Verne hung up the phone. He looked downward and then placed his hands in folded prayer-like fashion in front of him.

Verne Gagne walked away from a sure thing.

But the wrestling legend's pride has led him to calculate his own self-worth. And it's worth more than $1.8 million in Verne's eyes.

The AWA was his creation, his baby. He built it from the ground up to be, at one time, the #1 promotion in the USA. But now it was sad shell of itself.

Verne was willing to do business with a man who admittedly wanted to turn the AWA into a garish, cartoonish joke. Verne loathed Shenkarow's vision. But Verne was willing to do business with Mini Vince because Verne was ready to step back and let others run the show. Verne would like to be in the background as a consultant and not have to worry about the day-to-day grind of running a wrestling promotion anymore.

Verne looked at the picture of his family on his desk. He picked it up and looked at it more intensely.

After a minute or so, Verne put the picture back on his desk.

Verne cracked open a Tab that was sitting on his desk and took a couple of sips from the can.

He had no idea where all this would lead.

He knew of no other interested parties who would like to buy the promotion or give the AWA a much needed cash infusion.

But maybe all this was meant to happen...

The woman in New York and the man in Baltimore had finally been able to talk to someone about their interest in exploring the possibility of buying a wrestling promotion that was close to being on life support. The man they talked with said he would get a message back to the AWA.

Was Verne's future about to be determined in a very short period of time?

STAY TUNED...

(* Barry Shenkarow owned the Winnipeg Jets of the NHL at the time.)

Winnipeg Jets owner Barry Shenkarow.

 

[the autumn wind]

AWA WRESTLING ON ESPN - SHOWBOAT SPORTS PAVILION - LAS VEGAS, NV - AUGUST 1989

(3rd Taping Re-cap)

Match Commentator: Lee Marshall

Color Commentator: Lord James Blears

In-Ring Interviewer: Larry Nelson

Show Intro:

In-Studio: Larry Nelson welcomed viewers and ran down the program (He called it vapid, stupid and a waste of an hour of your life every week! Get it? He 'ran down' the program!

)

More info regarding the big Super Clash 4 show on October 18 at the Mecca Arena in Milwaukee

TV MAIN EVENT: Ken Patera vs. Jonnie Stewart

Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey finally reveals his newest wrestler

Comments from disputed AWA World Champion Jerry Lawler

A look back at the end of the DeBeers-Jammer match and what happened after the match was over

Wahoo McDaniel & Don Muraco wrestle

An interview with Baron Von Raschke

'The Trooper' Del Wilkes makes his AWA on ESPN debut

AND MORE!

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

Greg Gagne won a squash match over Cal Worthington via submission with the Gagne sleeper

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Greg, the burning question everyone wants an answer to is: when are you and Jake Milliman gonna team up again?

Greg: Well, Larry, the 'Milkman' and myself are talking about wrestling more matches together. Every time I wrestle with him I can feel the calcium emanating from his bones.

Nelson: Wow! Milk really does do a body good!

Greg: It certainly does. So, the fans should know that we will be teaming together again very shortly.

And I'm a staunch advocate of his pie and milk diet.

Smattering of cheers from the sloshed crowd.

Nelson: Another question I have for you is this. A few weeks ago on All-Star Wrestling, you and Larry Zbysko battled to a bloody double count out. Has the Zbysko-Gagne feud been re-ignited?

Greg: Larry, our feud has never died. There are times when the hostilities between us are cool. But then things can heat up between Zbysko and I at any moment.

We had a brutal, bloody battle when we last met.

And I will tell you that we've signed a contract to wrestle each other again.

Nelson: This feud is unique. And it brings something out of both of you from deep within that you often don't see in other feuds.

Greg: It's a feud that I believe will never end and may even carry over into the next life.

Nelson: Now that's a feud! Greg Gagne, everybody!

Pic aired of 'The Trooper' with the caption: NEXT... 'THE TROOPER' IS HERE!

Commercials

'The Trooper' Del Wilkes made his way to the ring to a decent ovation. Wilkes slapped hands with fans around ringside.

Wilkes won a squash match over Jeff Bagwell via submission with his double nerve hold on Bagwell's traps

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW AT RINGSIDE:

Nelson: 'Trooper' Del Wilkes, an impressive victory over young Jeff Bagwell in your debut match here on AWA Wrestling on ESPN.

Wilkes: Thank you, Larry. It's great to be here in front of all these great fans in Las Vegas!

Decent crowd reaction from a group of people that had been drinking heavily and was thinking about sex and gambling after the show.

Nelson: That nerve hold of yours, and we see the referee reviving Bagwell, really has a devastating impact.

The hold looks almost impossible to escape.

Wilkes: When applied correctly the hold is virtually inescapable. The key is having strong hands and a vice-like grip.

Nelson: Well, you certainly have the grip as we've seen.

What's 'Trooper' Del Wilkes looking forward to here in the AWA?

Wilkes: There's a lot of outstanding competition here in the AWA. And I looked to get tested here as I face better and better competition in the weeks and months ahead.

Nelson: 'Trooper' Del Wilkes, everybody!

Fans cheered and some worried 'The Trooper' would pull them over for drunk driving after the show.

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd video from last week's encounter between Tommy Jammer and Col. DeBeers.

VIDEO:

The Col. finished Jammer off with his face-first piledriver finisher to score the pinfall victory.

AFTER THE MATCH:

As the ref checked on the downed Jammer, DeBeers stalked around in the ring.

Marshall: Why isn't DeBeers leaving?

Blears: Good question, Lee.

As Jammer started to recover, DeBeers reached into the side pocket of his camo pants and pulled it out.

Marshall: DeBeers has just pulled out the coal miner's glove!

DeBeers put the glove on and waited like a cat ready to maul its prey. Fans screaming for Jammer to turn around.

A shaky Jammer to his feet. Just as DeBeers was about to blast Jammer with the loaded glove the crowd popped as Tom Zenk, minus facemask, charged down the face entrance aisle and hit the ring. DeBeers went to hit Zenk with his coal miner's glove hand but missed and Zenk hit DeBeers with a shot to the jaw that dropped the Colonel. DeBeers quickly rolled out of the ring to the safety of the floor. DeBeers went over and grabbed a chair from inside the ringside barricade and threw it in the ring. Zenk snapped up the chair and sat in it and gestured for the Col. to get back in the ring and fight. DeBeers arrogantly waved off Zenk and immediately headed back up the heel entrance aisle as Zenk got off the chair and looked on from the ring.

Zenk gestured for the ring mic from Larry Nelson and got it.

Zenk stalking around in the ring.

Zenk: DeBeers! I promise you this! If you use that glove on any other wrestler...I am going to end your career either in this ring or on the street!

Crowd popped.

In-Studio: Nelson said that what Tom Zenk said means this feud transcends pro wrestling itself. 'Keep it in the ring' does not apply here.

Pic aired of Baron Von Raschke with the caption: NEXT... A VERY SPECIAL INTERVIEW!

Commercials

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

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd an interview he did recently with Baron Von Raschke.

VIDEO:

Video opened with a shot of Nelson and Von Raschke, both dressed in casual street clothes, sitting at a small, round table in a bar somewhere in Las Vegas. The two each had a drink in front of them. For Nelson it was scotch. For Von Raschke a good German beer, of course!

Nelson had a mic.

Nelson: This is Larry Nelson on location in Las Vegas. My guest is Baron Von Raschke.

Baron, Manny Fernandez finally accepted your challenge for one final match between the two of you. What are you thinking right now?

Baron (playfully): Right now I'm thinking about that waitress over there.

The two laughed.

Nelson: I can see why you're thinking about her.

More laughter.

Baron: Seriously, Larry, I'm glad Fernandez finally accepted my challenge for a re-match.

We had a great match the last time we met. He won. But I gave as well as I got from Manny. He's a tough competitor.

You might not like him. But you have to admire his wrestling ability. I don't like him. But I do respect his wrestling talent.

Nelson: Well, we need to let the fans know that next week, right here on AWA Championship Wrestling on ESPN, you will be facing Manny Fernandez in a re-match in the main event.

Baron: That is correct. And I can't wait, Larry Nelson. One last dance between the Baron and the 'Ragin' Bull'! It promises to be another great fight between us!

Nelson: Baron, will this be the last match of your career?

Nelson took a sip of his scotch.

Baron: Wrestling is a funny business. Some people retire and then turn around a short time later and un-retire.

I will say this. When I retire it will mean something.

Nelson: Will you hold a press conference to announce you're retiring or will you do something else?

Baron: I will not have a big send-off, Larry. I will not have a press conference.

After my last match, whenever that is, I will do the time-honored tradition in this great sport and simply take off my boots and leave them in the middle of the ring and quietly walk away.

Nelson: Well, speaking for myself, I hope that's not anytime soon. Baron, you've had a great career and I can tell you that I'm a big fan and have enjoyed watching you all these years.

Baron: Thank you, Larry Nelson. But no matter someone does for a living, the ride has to end sometime. And sometime for me is a lot sooner than it is for you.

Nelson: No matter what, thanks for the memories, Baron.

Baron: Thank you.

Nelson raised his glass of scotch.

Nelson: A toast to a true wrestling legend.

Baron: Wrestling legend?! Where?

Baron looked around in the bar.

Nelson laughed.

Nelson: I'm talking about you.

Baron: Thank you for the compliment.

Nelson: I mean it.

Nelson and Baron clinked their glass and beer bottle together and each took a drink.

Baron put down his beer and playfully made his claw gesture with his right hand as the picture faded to black.

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Larry Nelson said he wasn't sure when Baron would retire but said he felt it would be soon and that the interview was very emotional for him as he'd been a Von Raschke fan for a long time.

Pic aired of disputed AWA champ Jerry Lawler holding the AWA World Title with the caption: NEXT... LAWLER'S MUSINGS!

Commercials

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd comments from disputed AWA World Champion Jerry Lawler.

VIDEO:

Lawler was standing in front of the AWA logo. He was in street clothes and cradling the belt in his left arm and holding a mic in his right hand.

Lawler: Welcome to Lawler's Class of the Obvious 101.

The word I want people to focus on today is: fact.

Fact is the word we need to zero in on here.

You see, facts cannot be overcome no matter what . And I'm sorry to tell a lot of you wrestling fans out there that fantasy and blubbery eyed emotionalism cannot overcome straight to the point facts.

Here's a fact for you: I never lost the AWA World Heavyweight Title.

I won this belt in May of last year from Curt Hennig. I've never lost it.

Here's Fact #2: Sgt. Slaughter did not beat me to win this title so how can he lay claim to being a legitimate World Champion?

Bottom line: Sgt. Slaughter did not beat me for the AWA World Title so he's a fake champion!

You see, it's simple logic. You have to beat the champion to become the champion. Sarge didn't beat me so he's not a real champion!

It's like some wrestling fan whose mom makes him a title belt out of tin foil and construction paper and tapes it around her son's waist and then records him doing interviews claiming he's the World Champion. That's the Sgt. Slaughter AWA World Title reign in a nutshell. He's a tin foil and construction paper belt champion.

Finally, Fact #3: The AWA brass wants Sgt. Slaughter to be their World Champion!

Never has something been so obvious! The AWA wants Sarge to be their standard bearer for reasons unknown! They seem to want me to fail!

Well, here's the deal!

The day is coming when Sgt. Slaughter and The King will face off in a match to decide who the undisputed AWA World Champion is.

And the people at the top of the AWA: Verne Gagne, Stanley Blackburn and Wally Karbo are gonna be in for a major letdown when I emerge as the undisputed, unquestioned, unchallenged AWA World Champion! They won't be able to deny me what is rightfully mine!

Set a date! Make the match! And let's prepare for a coronation of the AWA's REAL World Champion!

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Larry Nelson briefly talked about the Lawler promo. Said a day is coming when he and Sarge will finally settle their title dispute once and for all.

Pic aired of the new Super Clash 4 logo with the caption: NEXT... SUPER CLASH 4 NEWS!

Commercials

VIDEO:

AWA announcer Lee Marshall was standing in front of the new Super Clash 4 logo in a tux and holding a mic.

Marshall: Hello, everybody. This is AWA announcer Lee Marshall.

Welcome to the first Super Clash 4 update!

Super Clash 4 promises to be a huge, historic wrestling event that wrestling fans from all over will want to be a part of.

This looks to be the biggest Super Clash yet!

The top AWA stars will be there and there might be a surprise or two as well.

As always with professional wrestling...expect the unexpected!

Matches for this landmark event will be announced in the coming weeks so you'll want to continue to tune into AWA programming on ESPN and All-Star Wrestling which airs in syndication in your area. Check your local listings for when All-Star Wrestling airs in your area.

Super Clash 4 will be taking place Wednesday, October 18th, at the Mecca Arena in Milwaukee, WI with a bell time of 6pm Central time.

And tickets will go on sale Saturday, September 9th at 10am Central time via Ticketmaster and at the Mecca Box Office.

Milwaukee has always been a great AWA town. And we expect to see all you great Milwaukee wrestling fans at Super Clash 4!

And, the event will also be airing live on ESPN!

Super Clash 4 promises to be the wrestling event of 1989!

Don't be left out! Start preparing to attend Super Clash 4 today!

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Larry Nelson talked about SC 4. Said he was excited for the event and told viewers who plan to attend to get their seats as early as possible.

Nelson then sent it to the ring in Vegas:

Wahoo McDaniel & Don Muraco won a squash over Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine via pinfall when Wahoo pinned Glavine with his big chop to the chest finisher

During the match, Marshall and Blears talked about how strong Muraco and McDaniel were looking as a team. Said they could see Muraco and McDaniel winning the tag titles in the future.

Pic aired of the AWA logo with the caption: NEXT... SHEIK'S BIG REVEAL!

Commercials

Larry Nelson was standing center ring with Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey in the Showboat Sports Pavilion.

Nelson: Fans! It is now time for Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey to reveal his newest find!

Crowd booed.

Kaissey: Shut up, you infidels!

More boos.

Kaissey: After talking about this man for weeks and weeks, he has finally arrived here in the AWA!

I present to you a behemoth of a man! He is the wrestler who will change the AWA forever!

He is...Kokina Maximus!

Loud boos.

After a brief pause...

Nelson: Where is he... Whoa! He's coming and he is huge!

A huge Asian-Pacific Islander came down the aisle dressed in his knee-length tights. He was barefoot.

The man made his way to the ring and walked up the ring steps and climbed in the ring and walked over behind Larry Nelson and the Sheik.

Crowd booing as the man stood arms crossed with a menacing stare on his face.

Nelson: I'm intimidated just standing here right now, Sheik!

Sheik: Think of how intimidated all the wrestlers will be when they have to step into the ring with this man!

He is the biggest Samoan wrestler ever!

Nelson: He looks like he'll overwhelm some wrestlers!

Kaissey: He will do that, infidel Nelson!

This man is a force of nature! He is a one man wrecking crew! When I saw him on a trip to the islands, I knew I had to bring this man to the U.S. and the AWA!

He may be raw! But he makes up for that with size and brute power!

He will leave his opponents devastated! Some of the men he faces may want to think about a career change after wrestling Kokina!

Nelson: You've said before Jerry Blackwell will be his first target.

Kokina never moved.

Kaissey: Blackwell is the first man Kokina will annihilate here in the AWA! The 'Mountain from Stone Mountain' will be reduced to a small rock pile when Kokina is done with him!

And I have one more thing to say!

Nelson: Go ahead. This guy is making me very nervous. I want to end this interview ASAP.

Kokina didn't budge or even look in Nelson's direction. He just stared straight ahead.

Kaissey: It is inevitable that Kokina Maximus will be challenging for the AWA World Title very soon!

The AWA higher ups will not be able to deny him the opportunity!

And this message is for Jerry Lawler and Sgt. Slaughter! Whichever of you emerges as the undisputed AWA World Champion know this! You will have to face this man and your title reign will come to an abrupt, very painful end!

This is the greatest wrestler I will ever manage!

All hail Kokina Maximus!

Loud boos from the crowd.

Kokina continued to stand eerily still with arms folded and that menacing stare on his face.

Nelson: There you have it! Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey's newest find looks to be a destroyer! His name is Kokina Maximus!

More boos.

In-Studio: Larry Nelson said he'd never been that uneasy in the ring before. Said you could feel the menace emanating from Maximus.

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

TV MAIN EVENT: Ken Patera vs. Jonnie Stewart

Stewart jumped Patera before the match but Patera quickly fought back and the match turned into a brawl.

A few exciting near falls during the match but both men escaped defeat.

At the end of the match, Stewart was on the offensive. Stewart worked Patera over and body slammed Patera. Stewart ran and hit the ropes and came off and nailed Patera with a running elbow smash. Stewart for the cover. 1...2... Patera kicked out. Crowd cheered. Stewart up and stomped Patera in the head. As the ref checked on Patera, Stewart went over to the corner and adjusted his left knee pad.

Marshall: Stewart clearly has something in that knee pad!

Stewart turned back to Patera, snapped Patera up and went to whip Patera into the ropes but Patera reversed and caught Stewart coming off with a press slam. Crowd popped. Patera snagged Stewart and whipped Stewart into the corner and followed Stewart in with a big running clothesline. Stewart staggered out of the corner and went down to a knee and Patera maneuvered around behind Stewart. Stewart up facing away from Patera. Patera moved in and locked Stewart in the full nelson. Fans cheering for Patera to finish off the blond jackass. Stewart struggling to get out of the hold.

Marshall: Here comes trouble!

World Tag Team Champs The Destruction Crew charged down the heel entrance aisle with titles in hand. They dropped the belts when they climbed in the the ring and jumped Patera from behind. Ref immediately called for the bell. Patera lost his grip on Stewart and Stewart crumpled to the mat, rolled out of the ring and disappeared. Bloom and Enos beat Patera down to the mat and then put the boots to him. Enos went over and grabbed the tag belts while Bloom continued the stomping party. Enos handed Bloom his belt and the pair started beating Patera with their belts. Ref again called for the bell to no avail. The beating with the belts was in full swing when the crowd actually cheered Brad Rheingans coming to the ring to make the save. Enos went to hit Rheingans with his belt but Brad ducked and came back and fired away on Enos with punches. With Patera beaten and down, Bloom came up behind Rheingans and hit Rheingans in the back of the head with his belt. Rheingans stumbled forward. Enos had dropped his belt and worked Brad over with his fists. Bloom held his belt up like a baseball bat and gestured for Enos to send Rheingans his way. Enos whipped the stunned Rheingans toward Bloom and Bloom hit the wrestling equivalent of a homerun when he blasted Rheingans in the face with the belt. Rheingans crashed to the mat and rolled over on his front side. Enos picked up his belt and and went over and beat Patera with it some more. Ref tried to restore some order and Bloom responded by hitting the ref over the head with his belt. Ref crumpled to the mat.

Crowd cheered as several faces came out to make the save and the champs bailed to the safety of the floor. Rheingans rolled over on his back and was now bleeding. The champs started making their way back up the heel aisle and were pointing and laughing at the downed Patera and Rheingans. Bloom held up two fingers and was picked up on a mic.

Bloom: That's twice now, you idiots! Hahahaha!

Shot of the faces checking on Patera, Rheingans and the ref as the program ended.

DECISION: No Contest - 8:17

CLOSING CREDITS: https://youtu.be/CM9CyKqhciM?t=287

(Picture: Kokina Maximus (L); Mgr. Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey with real life friend Saddam Hussein (legit pic) (R).)

 

[the autumn wind]

AWA ALL-STAR WRESTLING SYNDICATED TAPING RESULTS - HAMMOND, IN - HAMMOND CIVIC CENTER

In-Studio Host: Larry Nelson

Match Commentator: Lee Marshall

Color Commentator: Lord James Blears

3rd Taping Re-cap

Show Intro

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

TV MAIN EVENT: Tom Zenk vs. Akio Sato

AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter sees action

A Super Clash 4 Update

Big news about Manny Fernandez and Baron Von Raschke

The Guerrero Brothers wrestle

A look back at the end of last week's Blackwell-Rich match and post-match comments from Tommy Rich

Ken Patera sees action

An announcement about the main event of next week's program

AND MORE!

Nelson sent it to the ring in Hammond, IN:

Lelani Kai won a squash match over Kate Jackson via pinfall with her flying crossbody off the top rope finisher

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: A solid win for you, Lelani Kai! You dominated Kate Jackson and she's no angel!

Kai: Ol' Kate was no match for me! They say you should be modest in your successes! Why?! Kate's not in my league!

Shot of Kate painfully walking on the floor and heading toward the face entrance aisle

Kai: Look at her! Get out of here, you piece of crap!

Nelson: Hey! No need to talk like that!

Kai: Oh really?!

Nelson (nervous): Well...

Kai: I got something I need to get off my chest!

Nelson: Your bra?

Kai glared at Nelson.

Kai: You're a real comedian, aren't ya, Nelson?!

Those are two things you'll never see!

Kai pointed at her chest.

Nelson did a Rodney Dangerfield-like tie straightening.

Kai: Where was I? Oh yes!

So, Magnificent Mimi thinks she's the #1 contender for the AWA Women's World Title, eh?! Well, I've got some news for that broad! I'm laying claim to the #1 spot!

Nelson: Whoa Nellie!

Kai: Did the spirit of Keith Jackson just enter you?!

Mimi, you want the #1 spot, darling?! Over my dead body!

I'm the #1 contender!

Nelson: I think the AWA needs to declare you the #1 contender to make it official.

Kai: I'm one of the top female wrestlers in the world!

So, here's a message for the AWA!

Make a match between me and Mimi! Whoever wins that will be the #1 contender!

Nelson: Holy Toledo!

Kai: What?! Now you think you're Raiders' announcer Bill King?!

Nelson: President Stanley Blackburn needs to make the match!

Lelani Kai, everyone!

In-Studio: Nelson talked about a possible match between Mimi and Kai with the #1 contender's spot on the line for an AWA Women's World Title shot.

Said a major announcement is coming up later in the program concerning the main event on next week's show.

Pic aired of the Guerrero Bros. with the caption: NEXT... HIGH FLYING ACTION!

Commercials

The Guerrero Bros. won a squash match over the team of Rowan Atkinson and Michael Palin via submission when Mando made Palin submit to the Gori Special

In-Studio: Nelson intro'd footage from last week's main event on ASW between Tommy Rich and Jerry Blackwell plus post-match comments from Tommy Rich.

VIDEO:

Rich down on the mat. Blackwell waiting for Rich to get to his feet. A shaky Rich up and Blackwell nailed Rich with a standing dropkick.

Blears: It's amazing that a man that big can deliver a well-executed dropkick like that.

Rich crashed to the mat and rolled out on the apron and was laying down facing the crowd. Blackwell went to go after Rich but the ref ordered Blackwell to stand back and Blackwell did. Ref started the 10-count. Blackwell went to go after Rich again but the ref intercepted the big man and the two had words. While that was going on, Rich reached into his tights and pulled out a foreign object that was caught on camera. (Amazing how that always happens!) Rich crawled over the bottom rope back into the ring and got to his knees. He was concealing the object in his right hand. Blackwell went over and reached down to pull Rich up. As Blackwell was pulling Rich to his feet, Rich stunned Blackwell with a foreign object shot to the jaw. Blackwell crumpled to the mat. Rich for the cover and concealed the object by his right leg. 1...2...3! Ref got up and called for the bell. Rich up and quickly dropped the foreign object in the back of his tights. Ref turned and raised Rich's hand in victory. Fans screaming for the ref to cop a feel on the back of Rich's tights. Rich strutted around the ring in victory because the booker said he had to.

Marshall: He is not getting away with this!

Marshall tossed the head set and climbed into the ring. Marshall started talking to the ref and gestured that Rich used a foreign object on Blackwell. Rich started arguing to the contrary. Blackwell recovering in the ring. Rich turned and started having heated words with Marshall. Big mistake. Ref standing behind Rich and saw the foreign object in the back of Rich's tights and the ref reached in (that sounds sooooooooooooooooooo wrong) and pulled it out (gets even funnier!). Ref showed Rich the object and called Larry Nelson up on the apron. Marshall left the ring for the floor and headed back to the announcers' table. Rich started arguing with the ref.

Nelson: I have been informed by the referee that he has ordered the match to be re-started!

Crowd cheered.

Blackwell to his feet. Ref called for the bell to re-start the match. Rich kept arguing with the ref for a few more seconds and turned and was greeted by a running clothesline from Blackwell. Rich crashed to the mat. Crowd popped. Blackwell ran and hit the ropes and came off with his diving splash finisher on Rich. The cover. 1...2...3! Ref called for the bell as the fans cheered.

Pic then flipped to Tommy Rich, sweaty and still in his ring attire right after the match, standing in the back corridor in front of a white wall. Rich had a mic.

Rich ran his fingers through his hair.

Rich: You know what, Lee Marshall? I'm gettin' tired of you, boy!

You cost me the match with Jerry Blackwell! I pinned him right there in the middle of the ring after I knocked him out with my fist! My fist!

Marshall! You came in the ring and stuck that foreign object in the back of my tights to make it look like I cheated to win!

I'm sick of you, man! You need to stay in your damn seat at ringside and call the matches! That's what you're paid to do! You're not a wrestler, son! You're an announcer! So announce!

This is a warning to you, Marshall! Don't push this any further between us! Let it go!

You realize that you're messing with a former NWA World Champion, right?! I had one of the greatest runs as NWA Champion of all-time! Ric Flair personally told me he could never match what I did as champion back in 1980!

So, you just sit on your ass in your seat and tell the people at home watching on TV what wrestlers, real wrestlers, are doing in the ring!

Stay out of the ring and out of my business, boy!

You've been warned!

END VIDEO

Split-screen pic aired of Baron Von Raschke and Manny Fernandez with the caption: NEXT... CHALLENGE ACCEPTED!

Commercials

Commercials/Market-Specific promos for upcoming house shows/Generic promos for non-house show cities

In-Studio - Larry Nelson intro'd video from last week of Manny Fernandez finally accepting Baron Von Raschke's challenge for a match.

VIDEO:

(From AWA Wrestling on ESPN):

Nelson: Manny Fernandez, Baron Von Raschke keeps asking for one more match with you. You've said you won't give it to him even though you two had a great match the last time you faced each other.

So, the burning question is...will you change your mind and wrestle him one more time?

Manny: Larry Nelson, it's time for Baron Von Raschke to hang 'em up! He needs to go! He's had his day in the sun!

Nelson: Is that a no?

Manny walked around in the ring for a moment.

Manny: You know what? Because I need to move on to other challenges, just to get that old goose-stepping German off my back, I'll give him the match!

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Nelson intro'd comments from Manny Fernandez.

VIDEO:

Manny was in street clothes standing in front of the AWA logo with mic in hand.

Manny: Well, Baron, you got your wish.

There's gonna be one last match between us.

And when the match is over! No matter what happens! This is it! We're done with each other! Finished! Kaput!

I don't wanna see your face again, pops!

For the 'Ragin' Bull', it's time to move on to other things!

But know this! I'm gonna bring everything I have to bear against you! I'm not gonna take it easy on you just because you've already got an AARP card!

You're gonna know you've been in the ring with me when all is said and done, Baron! You're gonna feel the sting of my wrath long after the match is over!

One last time: 'Ragin' Bull' vs. 'The Claw Master'!

And it's never gonna happen again!

END VIDEO

In-Studio - Nelson then intro'd a special interview with Baron Von Raschke.

VIDEO:

Video opened with a shot of Nelson and Von Raschke, both dressed in casual street clothes, sitting at a small, round table in a bar somewhere in Las Vegas. The two each had a drink in front of them. For Nelson it was scotch. For Von Raschke a good German beer, of course!

Nelson had a mic.

Nelson: This is Larry Nelson on location in Las Vegas. My guest is Baron Von Raschke.

Baron, Manny Fernandez finally accepted your challenge for one final match between the two of you. What are you thinking right now?

Baron (playfully): Right now I'm thinking about that waitress over there.

The two laughed.

Nelson: I can see why you're thinking about her.

More laughter.

Baron: Seriously, Larry, I'm glad Fernandez finally accepted my challenge for a re-match.

We had a great match the last time we met. He won. But I gave as well as I got from Manny. He's a tough competitor.

You might not like him. But you have to admire his wrestling ability. I don't like him. But I do respect his wrestling talent.

Nelson: Well, we need to let the fans know that next week, right here on AWA Championship Wrestling on ESPN, you will be facing Manny Fernandez in a re-match in the main event.

Baron: That is correct. And I can't wait, Larry Nelson. One last dance between the Baron and the 'Ragin' Bull'! It promises to be another great fight between us!

Nelson: Baron, will this be the last match of your career?

Nelson took a sip of his scotch.

Baron: Wrestling is a funny business. Some people retire and then turn around a short time later and un-retire.

I will say this. When I retire it will mean something.

Nelson: Will you hold a press conference to announce you're retiring or will you do something else?

Baron: I will not have a big send-off, Larry. I will not have a press conference.

After my last match, whenever that is, I will do the time-honored tradition in this great sport and simply take off my boots and leave them in the middle of the ring and quietly walk away.

Nelson: Well, speaking for myself, I hope that's not anytime soon. Baron, you've had a great career and I can tell you that I'm a big fan and have enjoyed watching you all these years.

Baron: Thank you, Larry Nelson. But no matter someone does for a living, the ride has to end sometime. And sometime for me is a lot sooner than it is for you.

Nelson: No matter what, thanks for the memories, Baron.

Baron: Thank you.

Nelson raised his glass of scotch.

Nelson: A toast to a true wrestling legend.

Baron: Wrestling legend?! Where?

Baron looked around in the bar.

Nelson laughed.

Nelson: I'm talking about you.

Baron: Thank you for the compliment.

Nelson: I mean it.

Nelson and Baron clinked their glass and beer bottle together and each took a drink.

Baron put down his beer and playfully made his claw gesture with his right hand as the picture faded to black.

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Nelson announced that next week on AWA Wrestling on ESPN the main event would be Von Raschke vs. Fernandez: Von Raschke's last match?

Pic aired of Ken Patera with the caption: NEXT... THE STRONG MAN!

Commercials

Ken Patera won a squash match over James ('Dyn-O-Mite') Walker via submission with his full nelson finisher

In-Studio: Larry Nelson talked about the heat between Patera/Rheingans and tag champs the Destruction Crew (Read previous ASW post for more info)

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: Nelson then said that the main event has been signed for next week's edition of ASW.

It will be a re-match between Greg Gagne and Larry Zbysko.

Nelson intro'd comments from both men about next week's main.

VIDEO:

Larry Zbysko was wearing street clothes and sunglasses and holding a mic and standing front of the AWA logo.

Zbysko: So we meet again.

Larry Zbysko vs. Greg Gagne one more time.

The last match we had was heated and bloody. We hate each other. Hell! I hate the whole Gagne family!

This feud between us will never see a conclusion!

Their will only be new chapters added when the book chronicling the Larry Zbysko-Greg Gagne feud is written.

And next week there's gonna be a winner between us!

And his last name is not spelled Gagne!

Pic flipped and Greg Gagne was standing in front of the AWA logo in street clothes and holding a mic.

Greg: Larry Zbysko has been a thorn in my side for years. He's also been a big headache for my dad for a long time.

Well, we're gonna clash again next week right here on All-Star Wrestling.

Our battles have always been hard-fought. Next week will be no different.

As the cut on my head was bandaged after our last encounter in which there was no winner, I knew I wanted another crack at Zbysko and I'm getting it.

Whether I like it or not or my dad Verne Gagne likes it or not, Zbysko and Gagne are joined at the hip in this sport.

The bad blood runs deep between us. And next week will be no different.

Two ring warriors will clash one more time in our epic feud.

END VIDEO

Pic aired of the new SC 4 logo with the caption: NEXT... SUPER CLASH 4 UPDATE!

Commercials

VIDEO:

AWA announcer Lee Marshall was standing in front of the new Super Clash 4 logo in a tux and holding a mic.

Marshall: Hello, everybody. This is AWA announcer Lee Marshall.

Welcome to the first Super Clash 4 update!

Super Clash 4 promises to be a huge, historic wrestling event that wrestling fans from all over will want to be a part of.

This looks to be the biggest Super Clash yet!

The top AWA stars will be there and there might be a surprise or two as well.

As always with professional wrestling...expect the unexpected!

Matches for this landmark event will be announced in the coming weeks so you'll want to continue to tune into AWA programming on ESPN and All-Star Wrestling which airs in syndication in your area. Check your local listings for when All-Star Wrestling airs in your area.

Super Clash 4 will be taking place Wednesday, October 18th, at the Mecca Arena in Milwaukee, WI with a bell time of 6pm Central time.

And tickets will go on sale Saturday, September 9th at 10am Central time via Ticketmaster and at the Mecca Box Office.

Milwaukee has always been a great AWA town. And we expect to see all you great Milwaukee wrestling fans at Super Clash 4!

And, the event will also be airing live on ESPN!

Super Clash 4 promises to be the wrestling event of 1989!

Don't be left out! Start preparing to attend Super Clash 4 today!

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Larry Nelson talked about SC 4. Said he was excited for the event and told viewers who plan to attend to get their seats as early as possible.

Pic aired of Sgt. Slaughter in his ring attire with his version of the AWA World Title slung over his shoulder with the caption: NEXT... SARGE IN ACTION!

Commercials

Commercials/Market-Specific promos for upcoming house shows/Generic promos for non-house show cities

NON-TITLE: AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter

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

Once in the ring, Sarge saluted the fans

Sarge won a squash match over Roy Fitzgerald via submission with the Cobra Clutch

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Sgt. Slaughter, great to see you!

Fans cheered.

Nelson: These fans always love seeing you in action!

Sarge: Larry, these fans motivate me every time I come out here to fight hard and win for them!

And I intend to win for them again when I beat Jerry Lawler and become the undisputed AWA World Champion!

More cheers.

Nelson: That match is coming soon. And no doubt it will be one fans will remember for years to come.

Sarge: It's gonna be history, Larry! I don't know if there's ever been a situation like this before in professional wrestling!

But the people don't want two World Champions! That just muddies the waters!

They want one World Champion! They want an undisputed World Champion!

And when Lawler and I clash that's what they're going to get!

More cheers.

Nelson: Lawler recently insulted your military service by calling you Gomer Pyle. Your thoughts on that?

Sarge: Larry, I served my country proudly as a Marine! Semper Fi!

Sarge pointed at some fans and saluted them.

Sarge: Semper Fi, men!

You get put through a lot when you serve! The men and women who wear the uniform today, no matter what branch of the military they're in, they do it because they love this country and would die defending our values, land and, most importantly, our God-given freedom!

More crowd cheers.

Sarge: As far as I'm concerned, Jerry Lawler insulted all military personnel when he called me Gomer Pyle!

The man has no respect for anyone but himself!

But, I'll tell you this! Jerry Lawler's gonna learn to respect me and this World Title when I get through with him!

More cheers.

Nelson: Sgt. Slaughter, everyone!

More cheers.

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

Commercials

TV MAIN EVENT: Tom Zenk (w/o mask) vs. Akio Sato

In a match that sent many fans scurrying to the loo and the concession stands, Tom Zenk basically won a squash over Akio Sato. Sato got some offense in but Zenk took like 80% of the match and finished Sato off with his superkick finisher to score the pinfall after Sato missed a knee drop to the chest off the top rope.

WINNER: Zenk - Pinfall - 5:19

AFTER THE MATCH:

After Zenk had his hand raised in victory, Zenk dropped to the floor and started slapping hands with fans around ringside. As a crowd of fans pushed forward to slap Zenk's hand, a fist came through the crowd and popped Zenk in the mouth. Zenk stumbled back with his hand covering his mouth.

Zenk looked down at his hand.

Marshall: Zenk is bleeding from the mouth from that cheap shot!

Zenk momentarily looked down at the blood on his hand.

Zenk shot a glare over at the section where the punch came from. Zenk scanned the area briefly.

Zenk put his hand to his mouth again and then looked at more blood on his hand.

Zenk: DeBeers!

Zenk climbed over the ringside barricade and started walking through the ringside area looking for the perp as the program ended.

END PROGRAM

Larry Zbyszko vs. Greg Gagne: The Feud Goes on!

 

[the autumn wind]

AWA WRESTLING ON ESPN - SHOWBOAT SPORTS PAVILION - LAS VEGAS, NV - AUGUST 1989

(4th Taping Re-cap)

Match Commentator: Lee Marshall

Color Commentator: Lord James Blears

In-Ring Interviewer: Larry Nelson

Show Intro:

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

TV MAIN EVENT: Baron Von Raschke vs. Manny Fernandez (Is this the Baron's farewell match?)

Comments from AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter

An announcement from AWA Prez Stanley Blackburn regarding the tag team champs the Destruction Crew and Badd Company

Larry Zbyszko wrestles

A Super Clash 4 Update

A look back at last week's brutal attack by the Destruction Crew on Ken Patera and Brad Rheingans plus comments from Patera and Rheingans

Undefeated Sam Houston sees action

A look back at last week's debut of Kokina Maximus

Tommy Rich has a message for Lee Marshall

From All-Star Wrestling: Who sucker punched Tom Zenk?

AND MORE!

Nelson then sent it to the ring in Vegas:

NON-TITLE: AWA Women's World Champion Wendi Richter

Wendi Richter won a squash match over Marsha, Marsha, Marsha Brady via pinfall with her DDT finisher

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Wendi, you looked really strong in that match against Marsha, Marsha, Marsha. Guess we'll start calling her Triple M.

You look good. Tell us a little about your training regimen?

Wendi: Larry, I train very hard. My training program consists of weight training, running and lots of cardio exercises. Cardio is so important in this sport, especially in long matches. Dieting is also important.

Nelson: Now you have two ladies who are openly gunning for you. They are Magnificent Mimi and Lelani Kai.

Do you have a preference regarding which one you'd rather face in the ring?

Wendi: I have no preference. I'll put this belt on the line against either one of them.

Nelson: Both Mimi and Kai have had harsh words for you. Does that bother you at all?

Wendi: You better develop a tough skin if you want to be in this sport. If you're thin-skinned then don't even bother because you'll get eaten alive.

Actions speak louder than words. They can say all the negative, nasty things they want. But they'd better be able to back it up in the squared circle.

Nelson: Well, Mimi and Kai are tough customers.

Wendi: They're two of the best women wrestlers out there today.

Whichever lady the AWA wants me to put the title on the line against, then give me the contract and I'll sign on the dotted line.

Nelson: Wendi Richter, everybody!

Crowd cheered (well some did).

Pic aired of Kokina Maximus with the caption: NEXT... KOKINA HAS ARRIVED!

Commercials

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd video from last week's program where Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey introduced his newest wrestler Kokina Maximus.

VIDEO:

Larry Nelson was standing center ring with Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey in the Showboat Sports Pavilion.

Nelson: Fans! It is now time for Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey to reveal his newest find!

Crowd booed.

Kaissey: Shut up, you infidels!

More boos.

Kaissey: After talking about this man for weeks and weeks, he has finally arrived here in the AWA!

I present to you a behemoth of a man! He is the wrestler who will change the AWA forever!

He is...Kokina Maximus!

Loud boos.

After a brief pause.

Nelson: Where is he... Whoa! He's coming and he is huge!

A huge Asian-Pacific Islander came down the aisle dressed in his knee-length tights. He was barefoot.

The man made his way to the ring and walked up the ring steps and climbed in the ring and walked over behind Larry Nelson and the Sheik.

Crowd booing as the man stood arms crossed with a menacing stare on his face.

Nelson: I'm intimidated just standing here right now, Sheik!

Sheik: Think of how intimidated all the wrestlers will be when they have to step into the ring with this man!

He is the biggest Samoan wrestler ever!

Nelson: He looks like he'll overwhelm some wrestlers!

Kaissey: He will do that, infidel Nelson!

This man is a force of nature! He is a one man wrecking crew! When I saw him on a trip to the islands, I knew I had to bring this man to the U.S. and the AWA!

He may be raw! But he makes up for that with size and brute power!

He will leave his opponents devastated! Some of the men he faces may want to think about a career change after wrestling Kokina!

Nelson: You've said before Jerry Blackwell will be his first target.

Kokina never moved.

Kaissey: Blackwell is the first man Kokina will annihilate here in the AWA! The 'Mountain from Stone Mountain' will be reduced to a small rock pile when Kokina is done with him!

And I have one more thing to say!

Nelson: Go ahead. This guy is making me very nervous. I want to end this interview ASAP.

Kokina didn't budge or even look in Nelson's direction. He just stared straight ahead.

Kaissey: It is inevitable that Kokina Maximus will be challenging for the AWA World Title very soon!

The AWA higher ups will not be able to deny him the opportunity!

And this message is for Jerry Lawler and Sgt. Slaughter! Whichever of you emerges as the undisputed AWA World Champion know this! You will have to face this man and your title reign will come to an abrupt, very painful end!

This is the greatest wrestler I will ever manage!

All hail Kokina Maximus!

Crowd booed.

In-Studio: Nelson said Maximus gives off an intense, intimidating vibe. Said Jerry Blackwell, Kokina's first target, better really prepare to fight this guy.

Pic aired of Sam Houston with the caption: NEXT... MR. UNDEFEATED!

Commercials

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

Sam Houston won a squash match over Jim Bakker via pinfall with his bulldog finisher

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Sam Houston! You remain undefeated here in the AWA! How long do you think you can keep the streak going?

Houston: Larry, I'd like to keep the streak going as long as possible. But no match is a given in pro wrestling; especially against the better wrestlers.

Nelson: Last time we talked you said you had a wrestling coach that's been a star in this sport. You wouldn't tell us his name. Are you still going to remain mum on the subject?

Houston: Yeah. I'm still not gonna divulge who my wrestling coach is. But I will let you and everyone else know one day. It's a secret that can't stay hidden forever. Both of us just prefer to keep it a secret right now because of the distractions it might cause.

Nelson: We just had the debut of Kokina Maximus. What did you think when you saw him?

Houston: That boy is huge! Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey may have really hit on a super talent there. He's gonna be tough to get off his feet. And if you can't take someone off their feet in wrestling then you ain't gonna win.

Nelson: Sam Houston, everybody!

Crowd cheered.

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd video from last week's attack on Tom Zenk by a fan after Zenk's match.

VIDEO:

(From All-Star Wrestling)

Zenk had his hand raised in victory and then Zenk dropped to the floor and started slapping hands with fans around ringside. As a crowd of fans pushed forward to slap Zenk's hand, a fist came through the crowd and popped Zenk in the mouth. Zenk stumbled back with his hand covering his mouth.

Zenk looked down at his hand.

Marshall: Zenk is bleeding from the mouth from that cheap shot!

Zenk momentarily looked down at the blood on his hand.

Zenk shot a glare over at the section where the punch came from. Zenk scanned the area briefly.

Zenk put his hand to his mouth again and then looked at more blood on his hand.

Zenk: DeBeers!

Zenk climbed over the ringside barricade and started walking through the ringside area looking for the perp as the program ended.

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Nelson said they caught a couple of glimpses of the perp.

Pics showed a man standing behind a couple of fans who threw the punch at Zenk.

The man was wearing a baseball cap pulled down, sunglasses and street clothes. But there was one thing that stood out.

Another pic showed the man sneaking out of the crowd of fans he was in and leaving the scene of the crime. He had his head down in the pic but it was obviously him.

Nelson: I've only seen one mustache like that here in the AWA. And it belongs to one Col. DeBeers! This situation just keeps escalating and escalating. Zenk has promised to carry this fight away from the arena and out to the streets if he has to. The hatred between these two is red hot. The traditional wrestling routes to solve disputes may not be able to facilitate the end of this...well...war...between Zenk and DeBeers.

Pic aired of the SC 4 logo with the caption: NEXT... SUPER CLASH 4 UPDATE!

Commercials

VIDEO:

SUPER CLASH 4 UPDATE

AWA announcer Lee Marshall was in the SC 4 Update Center. He was seated behind a news desk with the SC 4 logo on a TV screen to his left on the desk.

Marshall was in a tux.

Marshall: Hello grappling fans!

This is AWA announcer Lee Marshall coming to you from the brand new Super Clash 4 Update Center.

We are now one week closer to the wrestling event of 1989.

Super Clash 4 will be taking place on Wednesday, October 18th at the Mecca Arena in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with a bell time of 6pm Central time.

Tickets go on sale for the event on Saturday, September 9th, at 10am Central time through Ticket Master and the Mecca box office.

Don't forget to mark that sales date down on your calendar because you're gonna want to get your seats early for this historic event.

In the weeks ahead, we'll be announcing the matches for Super Clash 4. And let me tell you, with the way things are going here in the AWA right now there will be some fantastic match-ups on the card.

Plus! There might even be a surprise or two on the show!

The only way to find out is to be there live or watch Super Clash 4 live on ESPN!

Keep watching AWA Championship Wrestling on ESPN and AWA All-Star Wrestling in syndication in your local area to keep up-to-date on everything Super Clash 4.

I'm Lee Marshall. See you next week with another Super Clash 4 Update.

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Nelson hyped SC 4 and intro'd video of last week's attack on Rheingans and Patera by the World Tag Team Champs the Destruction Crew with post-match comments by Rheingans and Patera.

VIDEO:

Patera moved in and locked Stewart in the full nelson. Fans cheering for Patera to finish off the blond jackass. Stewart struggling to get out of the hold.

Marshall: Here comes trouble!

World Tag Team Champs The Destruction Crew charged down the heel entrance aisle with titles in hand. They dropped the belts when they climbed in the the ring and jumped Patera from behind. Ref immediately called for the bell. Patera lost his grip on Stewart and Stewart crumpled to the mat, rolled out of the ring and disappeared. Bloom and Enos beat Patera down to the mat and then put the boots to him. Enos went over and grabbed the tag belts while Bloom continued the stomping party. Enos handed Bloom his belt and the pair started beating Patera with their belts. Ref again called for the bell to no avail. The beating with the belts was in full swing when the crowd actually cheered Brad Rheingans coming to the ring to make the save. Enos went to hit Rheingans with his belt but Brad ducked and came back and fired away on Enos with punches. With Patera beaten and down, Bloom came up behind Rheingans and hit Rheingans in the back of the head with his belt. Rheingans stumbled forward. Enos had dropped his belt and worked Brad over with his fists. Bloom held his belt up like a baseball bat and gestured for Enos to send Rheingans his way. Enos whipped the stunned Rheingans toward Bloom and Bloom hit the wrestling equivalent of a homerun when he blasted Rheingans in the face with the belt. Rheingans crashed to the mat and rolled over on his front side. Enos picked up his belt and and went over and beat Patera with it some more. Ref tried to restore some order and Bloom responded by hitting the ref over the head with his belt. Ref crumpled to the mat.

Crowd cheered as several faces came out to make the save and the champs bailed to the safety of the floor. Rheingans rolled over on his back and was now bleeding. The champs started making their way back up the heel aisle and were pointing and laughing at the downed Patera and Rheingans. Bloom held up two fingers and was picked up on a mic.

Bloom: That's twice now, you idiots! Hahahaha!

Shot of the faces checking on Patera, Rheingans and the ref.

Pic flipped and Patera and Rheingans were in their locker room in their ring attire. Rheingans had a bandage on his head but blood was still caked on parts of his face. Patera had a mic.

Patera: Destruction Crew! I saw you laughing at us as you left the ring after attacking us! Well, very soon I have a feeling you're not gonna have anything to laugh about when me and Brad get our hands on you!

This is twice now you've done this! Once to Brad and now to both of us! Well, this is the way it's gonna be!

We know you're about to defend the titles against Badd Company! And we don't care who wins or loses that match!

Wayne Bloom and Mike Enos! We want you in a match whether it's for the tag team titles or not! We don't care!

And we want you in a match where you two can't escape or bring weapons into the ring! We want you in a cage match!

You hear me, Destruction Crew?! Am I clear?! Cage match! Let's make this happen because payback is gonna be hell for you guys!

Patera handed the mic to Brad.

Brad: You know, Ken, I've had all I can take with the Destruction Crew!

And I agree with you! Title match or non-title match we don't give a damn!

Look at my face! Look at the blood that's still on it even though I'm bandaged up from where Wayne Bloom bashed me in the face with that belt!

He took a baseball swing with that belt and crushed the metal into my face! That does not feel good!

So, you guys like baseball, huh?!

Well, let's do the cage match and Ken and I will get a hold of you two jackals and knock your asses right out of the park!

Patera made a fist with his right hand and gritted his teeth and Brad had an angry scowl on his face.

END VIDEO

Pic aired of Larry Zbyszko with the caption: NEXT... THE LIVING LOUDMOUTH!

Commercials

Larry Zbyszko won a squash match making quick work of Dave Reichert via pinfall with a piledriver

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Larry Zbyszko, I have to ask you about your continuing feud with Greg Gagne...

Zbyszko: I don't wanna talk about Greg Gagne or any Gagne for that matter right now!

You know I still have some unfinished business with Ken Patera!

Nelson: I think Ken Patera has other concerns at the moment with the tag champions the Destruction Crew.

Zbyszko: That's not my problem! We're gonna finish our business whether the power lifting lug wants to or not!

So, Ken Patera, when will we clash?! When is our clash going to be?!

Just name the time and place and I'll be there, muscle head!

And Larry, you know what they say about muscle heads?!

Nelson: What?

Zbyszko: The reason they lift all those weights and develop those big muscles is because they're severely lacking in one key area!

Nelson: Lacking in what?

Zbyszko raised his pinky and wiggled it and started laughing.

Zbyszko: Got it now?

Nelson: I certainly do.

Larry Zbyszko, everybody!

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd the end of the Jerry Blackwell-Tommy Rich match from two weeks ago and post-match comments from Tommy Rich.

VIDEO:

(From All-Star Wrestling)

Rich down on the mat. Blackwell waiting for Rich to get to his feet. A shaky Rich up and Blackwell nailed Rich with a standing dropkick.

Blears: It's amazing that a man that big can deliver a well-executed dropkick like that.

Rich crashed to the mat and rolled out on the apron and was laying down facing the crowd. Blackwell went to go after Rich but the ref ordered Blackwell to stand back and Blackwell did. Ref started the 10-count. Blackwell went to go after Rich again but the ref intercepted the big man and the two had words. While that was going on, Rich reached into his tights and pulled out a foreign object that was caught on camera. (Amazing how that always happens!) Rich crawled over the bottom rope back into the ring and got to his knees. He was concealing the object in his right hand. Blackwell went over and reached down to pull Rich up. As Blackwell was pulling Rich to his feet, Rich stunned Blackwell with a foreign object shot to the jaw. Blackwell crumpled to the mat. Rich for the cover and concealed the object by his right leg. 1...2...3! Ref got up and called for the bell. Rich up and quickly dropped the foreign object in the back of his tights. Ref turned and raised Rich's hand in victory. Fans screaming for the ref to cop a feel on the back of Rich's tights. Rich strutted around the ring in victory because the booker said he had to.

Marshall: He is not getting away with this!

Marshall tossed the head set and climbed into the ring. Marshall started talking to the ref and gestured that Rich used a foreign object on Blackwell. Rich started arguing to the contrary. Blackwell recovering in the ring. Rich turned and started having heated words with Marshall. Big mistake. Ref standing behind Rich and saw the foreign object in the back of Rich's tights and the ref reached in (that sounds sooooooooooooooooooo wrong) and pulled it out (gets even funnier!). Ref showed Rich the object and called Larry Nelson up on the apron. Marshall left the ring for the floor and headed back to the announcers' table. Rich started arguing with the ref.

Nelson: I have been informed by the referee that he has ordered the match to be re-started!

Crowd cheered.

Blackwell to his feet. Ref called for the bell to re-start the match. Rich kept arguing with the ref for a few more seconds and turned and was greeted by a running clothesline from Blackwell. Rich crashed to the mat. Crowd popped. Blackwell ran and hit the ropes and came off with his diving splash finisher on Rich. The cover. 1...2...3! Ref called for the bell as the fans cheered.

Pic then flipped to Tommy Rich, sweaty and still in his ring attire right after the match, standing in the back corridor in front of a white wall. Rich had a mic.

Rich ran his fingers through his hair.

Rich: You know what, Lee Marshall? I'm gettin' tired of you, boy!

You cost me the match with Jerry Blackwell! I pinned him right there in the middle of the ring after I knocked him out with my fist! My fist!

Marshall! You came in the ring and stuck that foreign object in the back of my tights to make it look like I cheated to win!

I'm sick of you, man! You need to stay in your damn seat at ringside and call the matches! That's what you're paid to do! You're not a wrestler, son! You're an announcer! So announce!

This is a warning to you, Marshall! Don't push this any further between us! Let it go!

You realize that you're messing with a former NWA World Champion, right?! I had one of the greatest runs as NWA Champion of all-time! Ric Flair personally told me he could never match what I did as champion back in 1980!

So, you just sit on your ass in your seat and tell the people at home watching on TV what wrestlers, real wrestlers, are doing in the ring!

Stay out of the ring and out of my business, boy!

You've been warned!

END VIDEO

Pic aired of AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter with the caption: NEXT... THE SARGE SPEAKS!

Commercials

VIDEO:

AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter was standing in front of the AWA logo in his ring attire and DI hat. He had the belt slung over his left shoulder and a mic in his right hand.

Sarge: I heard what Jerry Lawler said about facts!

Well, I have a few facts I want to lay down on the 'Court Jester'...excuse me...the 'King of Wrestling' Jerry Lawler!

Fact #1: Lawler won the title from Curt Henning in May 1988!

Fact #2: Lawler defeated Kerry Von Erich to retain the AWA World Title at Super Clash 3!

Fact #3: Here's where it gets interesting!

Not long after defeating Von Erich at Super Clash Lawler up and vanished! To use military speak: he was MIA...Missing In Action!

Fact #4: Because Lawler seemed to fall off the face of the earth a Battle Royal was held in January of this year to determine a new AWA World Champion!

Larry Zbyszko won the Battle Royal and became the new World Champion!

Fact #5: In April of this year, I won a #1 Contender's Battle Royal and then defeated Larry Zbyszko to become the new AWA World Champion!

Where was Lawler all this time?! He was nowhere to be found!

Fact #6: Lawler shows up unannounced at the June TV taping in Las Vegas!

He makes his claim that he's the true AWA World Champion because he never lost the belt!

Fact #7: He never lost the belt because he never showed up to defend the belt in the first place!

Lawler went AWOL!

I won the World Title fair and square when I beat Zbyszko that night in April!

I don't think...I know I'm the true AWA Champion!

But Lawler has come in and caused so much confusion and chaos that it's become apparent that only a match between us to decide who the undisputed champion is will settle this matter once and for all!

Lawler! Let's have the match!

That is all! Dismissed!

Sarge saluted.

END VIDEO

Pic aired of the AWA logo with the caption: NEXT... PRESIDENT'S DECREE!

Commercials

In-Ring:

Larry Nelson was standing with AWA Prez Stanley Blackburn and five other men .

Nelson: With me right now is AWA President Stanley Blackburn. Also in the ring are the challengers for the AWA World Tag Team Titles Badd Company and manager Dallas Page.And finally, the AWA World Tag Team Champions The Destruction Crew.

Crowd was reacting with strong boos to both teams.

All three members of Badd Co. were wearing sunglasses and DDP was carrying a briefcase. Badd Co. was in their ring attire. The champs were in their ring attire and had the belts around their waists.

Nelson: President Blackburn.

Blackburn: Thank you, Larry.

I have called you men out here because I had a few important things I needed to say.

First, the Destruction Crew.

Your actions toward Ken Patera and Brad Rheingans and the referee were totally reprehensible.

Therefore, Wayne Bloom and Mike Enos, I am fining you $5,000 dollars each for your unprovoked attack on those men.

The champs were beside themselves.

Bloom: Hey, Blackburn!

You think we're working in New York or something?!

$5 grand! That's like half our annual pay here!

Good thing Dallas Page is gonna be owing us $25 grand when we retain our belts against them!

Enos: Mr. President! I find it morally reprehensible for you to fine us all that money when we were obviously provoked by Patera and Rheingans!

Blackburn: Since we don't have that much time I'm not gonna respond to Mr. Enos' obviously ridiculous comment.

I called you out here to let you that on the next edition of AWA Championship Wrestling here on ESPN, the Destruction Crew will be defending the tag team titles against Badd Company and Dallas Page's $25,000 dollars will be on the line.

Many in the crowd cheered.

Both teams seemed pleased with the news.

Bloom: Is the money in the briefcase, Dallas?

DDP: It is. Wanna see it?

Bloom: Yup.

Enos: Show us the money that will be ours after we beat you guys!

DDP opened the case and showed the money to the champs.

Camera close-up shot of the money.

DDP closed the case.

Bloom: It's not counterfeit, is it?

DDP: Nothing about Dallas Page is fake!

Blackburn: The contracts are already signed and now we have a set date for the match.

DDP: I have something to say!

Crowd booed.

DDP: Your boos are music to my ears, baby!

Destruction Crew, that's as close as you're getting to this money!

Badd Company is gonna walk out of the ring as the new tag team champions and you'll be hurting in the wallet because of that $5 grand fine on each of you!

You'll also be a little lighter because those belts will be going around the waists of Tanaka and Diamond!

We're wearing the sunglasses because of how shiny those belts are! We're blinded by their beauty and we can't wait to be the proud possessors of them!

Enos: Easier said than done, pal!

Bloom: One more thing Page needs to remember.

Someone, could be a man or woman, could be lurking in the building and waiting for a chance to strike against you and your boys, Dallas!

DDP: You son of a bitch! You guys have been up to these mind games all along!

A brief pushing and shoving match and war of words broke out between the two.

Nelson: Hey! Hey!

Blackburn: No more fighting between you two until the match! I better not get word that you even laid a finger nail on each other or there will be more fines...this time for both sides!

The scuffle came to a halt.

DDP: Just be there with the belts, boys! Ands don't get 'em dirty! After we win the wrestling press is gonna want photos of us and we want those belts nice and shiny!

Bloom: You just remember to bring all that money, Page! And the closest you're getting to these titles is when the ref holds them up in the ring before the start of the match!

Oh! And we have no idea who is stalking you! It could be anybody!

DDP: You never said it wasn't you!

Bloom: You guys just need to watch your backs...especially during the match!

We're done here.

The champs gave a mock wave to DDP and Badd Co. and then left the ring and headed back up the heel aisle to a mixed crowd reaction.

DDP: I want to let the champs know that they're not gonna distract us from the mission at hand! And the mission is to win those tag team titles and we're doing just that on the next AWA on ESPN!

We'll find out who's mind gaming us and we will make them pay!

Nelson: It is set! AWA World Tag Team Championship Match! Dallas Page is putting $25,000 dollars of his money on the line! If the Destruction Crew retains the belts they get the money! If Badd Company wins they are the new AWA World Tag Team Champions!

DDP: We are not worried! Not worried at all! We are laser focused! Not worried about mind games! I won't allow it!

Nelson: Me thinks thou dost protest too much.

DDP: Shut up, Nelson! Let's get outta here!

DDP and Badd Co. left the ring and headed back up the heel entrance aisle to mainly boos but some cheers.

Split-screen pic aired of Baron Von Raschke and Manny Fernandez with the caption: NEXT... BARON'S FAREWELL?

Commercials

TV MAIN EVENT: Baron Von Raschke vs. Manny Fernandez (Von Raschke's last match?)

Marshall: Will this be it for the Baron tonight?

Blears: I hope not, Lee. I believe the Baron still has some gas left in the tank.

Manny came out in his ring duds to pretty strong boos, climbed in the ring and went to a corner. He was all business.

Baron came out to a strong ovation from the large Showboat crowd.

Baron made his way to the ring in his ring attire and red and black robe. Baron climbed in the ring, did the goose step and gave the claw gesture. Many fans clawed right back at him.

Ref called for the bell.

The two men moved in on one another and engaged in a collar-and-elbow tie-up. Fernandez gained the upper hand and drove Baron against the ropes and the ref ordered a break. Manny raised his hands in the air showing a clean break. The two men moved out of the corner and engaged in another collar-and-elbow tie-up. The two battled for control and, after a brief struggle, Von Raschke gained the upper hand and drove Manny into the corner and the ref ordered a break. Von Raschke showed he was making a clean break and backed off with hands raised. The two men came out of the corner and engaged in a third collar-and-elbow tie-up and, after a brief struggle, Manny gained the upper hand and once again drove Baron against the ropes and the ref ordered another break. Manny started to slowly back away with and started to slowly raise his hands and then Manny suddenly slapped Baron across the face. After being stunned briefly, Baron responded by shoving Manny down to the mat. Crowd cheered. Manny up and went to punch Baron but Baron blocked the punch try and fired away on Manny with a series of head shots that stunned Manny. Baron whipped Manny into the ropes and caught Manny coming off with a high backdrop. Manny crashed to the mat. Baron snapped Manny up and rammed Manny's head into the top buckle 10 times in a row as the crowd counted along. Manny now with his head down on the top turnbuckle. Baron peeled Manny away from his nap and whipped Manny into the opposite corner. Baron moved in on Manny and Manny stunned Baron with a kick to the gut. Baron doubled over holding his gut. Manny delivered a kick to Baron's chest and Baron snapped back and crashed to the mat. Manny stomped on Baron and yelled for Baron to get up.

Manny: Get up, gramps!

Manny stomped Baron again.

Manny: Get up!

Baron started making it to his feet as the crowd started chanting 'Baron' and clapping for the old vet.

Baron up and Manny moved in and caught Baron with some well-placed head shots. Baron staggered off and Manny came up behind Baron and caught Baron with a forearm smash to the back. Baron fell against the ropes. Manny pulled Baron from the ropes and body slammed the German hero and nailed Baron with a jumping fist drop to the head. Manny for the cover. 1...2... Baron kicked out. Manny quickly covered Baron again. 1...2... Baron again kicked out as the crowd cheered. Manny snapped Baron up and went to ram Baron's head into the top buckle but Baron got his hands on the top rope and foot on the middle buckle and stiffened up. Manny tried two more times to slam Baron's head into the buckle but Baron resisted and then nailed Manny in the ribs three times. Manny lost his grip on Baron, Baron hit Manny with some punches and then leaned Manny back against the ropes and hit Manny with a deliberate series of forearm smashes to the chest. Baron then went to suplex Manny but Manny twice blocked the move and suplexed Baron. Manny up and booted Baron in the head. Manny snapped Baron up and went to whip Baron into the buckles but Baron reversed and Manny slammed into the buckles instead. Baron moved in and nailed Manny with a series of shoulder blocks to the gut. Manny slightly doubled over grabbing his gut. As Baron went to grab Manny, Manny reached down and pulled Baron's legs out from under him. Baron crashed to the mat. Manny for the pin. 1... Manny placed a foot on the middle rope for leverage. ...2... Fans screaming for the ref to look up. ...thr... Baron got a shoulder up and Manny quickly took his foot off the middle rope. Manny went for the pin again. Ref counted. 1... Manny again put his foot on the middle rope for leverage. ...2... Fans again screaming for the ref to look up. Ref looked over and saw Manny's foot on the rope and ordered a break. Manny to his feet and had argued with the ref and Manny slapped his hands together three times signaling it was a three count. Baron up and Manny turned and Baron stunned Manny with a punch and Baron caught Manny on a small package for the pin. 1...2... Manny kicked out.

Crowd again chanting 'Baron'!

The two up and Manny swung wildly at Baron and Baron ducked the move and came back with a flurry of kicks and punches that stunned Manny. Baron then nailed Manny with an atomic drop. Manny down holding the goods. Baron raised his right hand in the claw gesture and started goose stepping in the ring signaling it was time for the claw. Manny to his feet still holding his junk. Baron held his right hand claw-like in the air. Manny turned and...

Marshall: Baron has the Iron Claw on the 'Ragin' Bull'!

Crowd going wild for this match.

Manny struggling to free himself from the hold. Baron had the claw firmly locked on. Manny started to weaken in the hold. Manny couldn't break Baron's strong grip. Manny dropped to a knee. Manny appeared to be going out when Manny found the strength to nail Baron in the groin with a cheap shot. Baron lost his grip on the hold. Ref reprimanded Manny. Baron doubled over holding his groin. Manny up and briefly shook out the effects of the claw. Manny moved in on Baron and nailed Baron with a backfist to the face. Baron crashed to the mat holding his face. Baron down by the ropes. Manny went over, grabbed the top rope and drove a series of rapid-fire knees into Baron's back as the ref ordered Manny to let go of the top rope and then the ref started counting the 5-count. Ref's count reached 4 and Manny broke the illegal move. Manny snapped Baron up and started choking Baron on the top rope. Ref counted and Manny broke the illegal move at the count of 4. Manny repeated the illegal move and again broke at the count of 4. Baron leaned over the top rope facing the crowd. Manny turned and had words with the ref. Baron extracted himself from the top rope and turned and Manny greeted Baron with a knee to the gut. Manny whipped Baron into the ropes and Manny bent down down looking to catch Baron with a backdrop but Baron came off the ropes, dropped to a knee and stunned Manny with an upper cut. Manny stunned and still doubled over. Baron hoisted Manny up and nailed Manny with a piledriver. Loudest roar of the night from the fans so far (and that's saying something considering how long marathon TV tapings were in those days). Manny down. Baron again made the claw gesture and goose stepped as he waited for Manny to get to his feet.

Blears: It's not often, Lee, that the piledriver is used as a transitory move but we just saw it there with the Baron.

Manny slowly up.

Marshall: He puts the claw on Manny now, with how Manny's head and neck have to feel after that piledriver, Manny may have to sue for peace!

Baron, right hand raised at the ready.

Manny turned and walked right into the claw hold.

Crowd going nuts.

Manny tried to fight through it and free himself from the devastating hold. Baron relentless. Manny was able to move close to the ropes and tried to get his foot on the bottom rope to force a break but as soon Manny got his foot on the rope, Baron pulled Manny away from the rope still locked in the hold. Manny dropped to his knees. Ref asked Manny if he quit. At first Manny said 'no'. But the 'no' quickly turned to a loud 'yes'. Ref called for the bell as the fans nearly blew the roof off the 'Boat.

WINNER: Baron Von Raschke - Submission - 10:01

Baron held the hold on for a few seconds after the bell but then quickly released it. Ref raised the Baron's hand in victory to an even louder crowd response. Manny down and rolled out on the apron. Baron stood in the ring for a moment as the fans chanted his name one more time. Baron looked out at the crowd and then walked to each side of the ring and gave the claw gesture and many fans clawed back.

Marshall: You have to wonder if the Baron is indeed retiring tonight!

Blears: If he is, it's a helluva way to go out.

Baron stood center-ring and looked out at the cheering crowd and threw up one more iron claw gesture with his right hand to more cheers.

And then...

CLOSING CREDITS:

DARK MATCHES

MATCH TO DETERMINE THE UNDISPUTED AWA WORLD CHAMPION: Jerry Lawler and Sgt. Slaughter battled to a double count out - 26:47

Ken Patera beat Larry Zbysko via submission with the swingning full nelson - 14:41

Wahoo McDaniel & Don Muraco def. Jonnie Stewart & Tommy Rich when Muraco pinned Rich after Stewart appeared to load his left knee pad and accidentally struck Rich in the gut with his left knee - 13:04

ATTENDANCE

Paid: 4,127

Comps Given Out: 231

Comps Used: 79

TOTAL ATTENDANCE: 4,206 (Largest in a long time)

 

[the autumn wind]

AWA ALL-STAR WRESTLING SYNDICATED TAPING RESULTS - HAMMOND, IN - HAMMOND CIVIC CENTER

In-Studio Host: Larry Nelson

Match Commentator: Lee Marshall

Color Commentator: Lord James Blears

(4th Taping Re-cap)

Show Intro

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

TV MAIN EVENT (THE RE-MATCH): Larry Zbyszko vs. Greg Gagne

The war of words between Jerry Lawler and Sgt. Slaughter escalates

NON-TITLE MATCH: Tag Champs The Destruction Crew sees action

A new Super Clash 4 Update

A look back at what happened after Tom Zenk's match last week and who sucker punched him

Don Muraco & Wahoo McDaniel see action

A look at last week's unveiling of Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey's newest wrestler

'The Trooper' Del Wilkes laces 'em up

AND MORE!

Nelson then sent it to the arena in Hammond, IN:

Tommy Jammer won a squash match over Artie Lange via pinfall with a Jammer Slam (whip opponent into corner, opponent bounces out into a power slam)

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd video from last week where Tom Zenk was sucker punched after his win over Akio Sato.

VIDEO:

AFTER THE MATCH:

After Zenk had his hand raised in victory, Zenk dropped to the floor and started slapping hands with fans around ringside. As a crowd of fans pushed forward to slap Zenk's hand, a fist came through the crowd and popped Zenk in the mouth. Zenk stumbled back with his hand covering his mouth.

Zenk looked down at his hand.

Marshall: Zenk is bleeding from the mouth from that cheap shot!

Zenk momentarily looked down at the blood on his hand.

Zenk shot a glare over at the section where the punch came from. Zenk scanned the area briefly.

Zenk put his hand to his mouth again and then looked at more blood on his hand.

Zenk: DeBeers!

Zenk climbed over the ringside barricade and started walking through the ringside area looking for the perp.

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Nelson said they caught a couple of glimpses of the perp.

Pics showed a man standing behind a couple of fans who threw the punch at Zenk.

The man was wearing a baseball cap pulled down, sunglasses and street clothes. But there was one thing that stood out.

Another pic showed the man sneaking out of the crowd of fans he was in and leaving the scene of the crime. He had his head down in the pic but it was obviously him.

Nelson: I've only seen one mustache like that here in the AWA. And it belongs to one Col. DeBeers! This situation just keeps escalating and escalating. Zenk has promised to carry this fight away from the arena and out to the streets if he has to. The hatred between these two is red hot. The traditional wrestling routes to solve disputes may not be able to facilitate the end of this...well...war...between Zenk and DeBeers.

Pic aired of Del Wilkes with the caption: NEXT... 'THE TROOPER' IN ACTION!

Commercials

'The Trooper' Del Wilkes wrestled

He came to the ring in his state trooper attire and slapped hands with and handed out tickets to fans on the way to the ring.

Wilkes won a squash over Anderson Cooper via submission with a double nerve hold to the traps. Anderson passed out in the excrutiating hold.

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW ON THE FLOOR:

Nelson: 'Trooper' Del Wilkes, another impressive win here in the AWA.

That nerve hold could soon be one of the most devastating finishers in the sport.

Wilkes: I hope so, Larry. If you're locked in the hold, well, it's hard to escape from.

Shot of the ref reviving Cooper in the ring.

Nelson: What were you handing to the fans on the way to the ring?

Wilkes (chuckling): I was handing out tickets.

Nelson: Tickets?

Wilkes: You know, like speeding tickets. They say: You've been busted by 'The Trooper'.

Nelson: Sounds like a great way to interact with the fans.

Wilkes: It is. Kind of helps form a bond with the great fans of the AWA!

Fans cheered.

Nelson: 'The Trooper' Del Wilkes, everybody!

Pic aired of Kokina Maximus with the caption: NEXT... HE HAS ARRIVED!

Commercials/Market-Specific promos for upcoming house shows/Generic promos for non-house show cities

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd video of last week's debut of the Sheik's newest wrestler.

VIDEO:

(From AWA Wrestling On ESPN)

Larry Nelson was standing center ring with Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey in the Showboat Sports Pavilion.

Nelson: Fans! It is now time for Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey to reveal his newest find!

Crowd booed.

Kaissey: Shut up, you infidels!

More boos.

Kaissey: After talking about this man for weeks and weeks, he has finally arrived here in the AWA!

I present to you a behemoth of a man! He is the wrestler who will change the AWA forever!

He is...Kokina Maximus!

Loud boos.

After a brief pause.

Nelson: Where is he... Whoa! He's coming and he is huge!

A huge Asian-Pacific Islander came down the aisle dressed in his knee-length tights. He was barefoot.

The man made his way to the ring and walked up the ring steps and climbed in the ring and walked over behind Larry Nelson and the Sheik.

Crowd booing as the man stood arms crossed with a menacing stare on his face.

Nelson: I'm intimidated just standing here right now, Sheik!

Sheik: Think of how intimidated all the wrestlers will be when they have to step into the ring with this man!

He is the biggest Samoan wrestler ever!

Nelson: He looks like he'll overwhelm some wrestlers!

Kaissey: He will do that, infidel Nelson!

This man is a force of nature! He is a one man wrecking crew! When I saw him on a trip to the islands, I knew I had to bring this man to the U.S. and the AWA!

He may be raw! But he makes up for that with size and brute power!

He will leave his opponents devastated! Some of the men he faces may want to think about a career change after wrestling Kokina!

Nelson: You've said before Jerry Blackwell will be his first target.

Kokina never moved.

Kaissey: Blackwell is the first man Kokina will annihilate here in the AWA! The 'Mountain from Stone Mountain' will be reduced to a small rock pile when Kokina is done with him!

And I have one more thing to say!

Nelson: Go ahead. This guy is making me very nervous. I want to end this interview ASAP.

Kokina didn't budge or even look in Nelson's direction. He just stared straight ahead.

Kaissey: It is inevitable that Kokina Maximus will be challenging for the AWA World Title very soon!

The AWA higher ups will not be able to deny him the opportunity!

And this message is for Jerry Lawler and Sgt. Slaughter! Whichever of you emerges as the undisputed AWA World Champion know this! You will have to face this man and your title reign will come to an abrupt, very painful end!

This is the greatest wrestler I will ever manage!

All hail Kokina Maximus!

Loud boos from the crowd.

Kokina continued to stand eerily still with arms folded and that menacing stare on his face.

Nelson: There you have it! Sheik Adnan El-Kaissey's newest find looks to be a destroyer! His name is Kokina Maximus!

More boos.

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Larry Nelson said he'd never been that uneasy in the ring before. Said you could feel the menace emanating from Maximus.

Pic aired of Wahoo McDaniel and Don Muraco with the caption: NEXT... THE CHIEF & THE DON!

Commercials/Market-Specific promos for upcoming house shows/Generic promos for non-house show cities

Wahoo McDaniel & Don Muraco won a squash match over Dan Rowan and Dick Martin via pinfall when Muraco pinned Martin with his inverted piledriver finisher.

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Wahoo McDaniel and Don Muraco, you guys are really working well as a team.

So far, you're undefeated here in the AWA so you've got to think you're moving on to next level competition very soon.

Wahoo: Well, whatever the AWA throws at us, me and Don are ready for the challenge.

Muraco: I agree with the Chief. Whoever faces us will be in for one helluva challenge.

Nelson: The Destruction Crew continue to retain the tag team titles. Do you think you could be the team that takes them down and wins those belts.

Wahoo: Put us in the ring with 'em and we'll find out.

Muraco: Only way to know is to lace 'em up and wrestle them.

The Destruction Crew is an outstanding team and they want to hang onto those belts no matter what.

Wahoo: But let us have a go at 'em and let the chips fall where they may.

Nelson: Wahoo McDaniel and Don Muraco, everybody!

Pic aired of the Super Clash 4 logo with the caption: NEXT... SUPER CLASH 4 UPDATE!

Commercials

VIDEO:

SUPER CLASH 4 UPDATE

AWA announcer Lee Marshall was in the SC 4 Update Center. He was seated behind a news desk with the SC 4 logo on a TV screen to his left on the desk.

Marshall was in a tux.

Marshall: Hello, grappling fans!

This is AWA announcer Lee Marshall coming to you from the brand new Super Clash 4 Update Center.

We are now one week closer to the wrestling event of 1989.

Super Clash 4 will be taking place on Wednesday, October 18th at the Mecca Arena in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with a bell time of 6pm Central time.

Tickets go on sale for the event on Saturday, September 9th, at 10am Central time through Ticket Master and the Mecca box office.

Don't forget to mark that sales date down on your calendar because you're gonna want to get your seats early for this historic event.

In the weeks ahead, we'll be announcing the matches for Super Clash 4. And let me tell you, with the way things are going here in the AWA right now there will be some fantastic match-ups on the card.

Plus! There might even be a surprise or two on the show!

The only way to find out is to be there in-person or watch Super Clash 4 live on ESPN!

Keep watching AWA Championship Wrestling on ESPN and AWA All-Star Wrestling in syndication in your local area to keep up-to-date on everything Super Clash 4.

I'm Lee Marshall. See you next week with another Super Clash 4 Update.

In-Studio: Nelson hyped SC 4 and told fans to remember Saturday, Sept. 9 at 10am CST because that's when tickets for the biggest wrestling event of 1989 Super Clash 4 go on sale.

Split-screen pic aired of Sgt. Slaughter and Jerry Lawler with the caption: NEXT... FACT CHECK!

Commercials

In-Studio: Larry Nelson intro'd video from AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter and disputed AWA World Champion Jerry Lawler. The two sides present their 'facts' on the situation with each other.

VIDEO:

Lawler was standing in front of the AWA logo. He was in street clothes and cradling the belt in his left arm and holding a mic in his right hand.

Lawler: Welcome to Lawler's Class of the Obvious 101.

The word I want people to focus on today is: fact.

Fact is the word we need to zero in on here.

You see, facts cannot be overcome no matter what . And I'm sorry to tell a lot of you wrestling fans out there that fantasy and blubbery eyed emotionalism cannot overcome straight to the point facts.

Here's a fact for you: I never lost the AWA World Heavyweight Title.

I won this belt in May of last year from Curt Hennig. I've never lost it.

Here's Fact #2: Sgt. Slaughter did not beat me to win this title so how can he lay claim to being a legitimate World Champion?

Bottom line: Sgt. Slaughter did not beat me for the AWA World Title so he's a fake champion!

You see, it's simple logic. You have to beat the champion to become the champion. Sarge didn't beat me so he's not a real champion!

It's like some wrestling fan whose mom makes him a title belt out of tin foil and construction paper and tapes it around her son's waist and then records him doing interviews claiming he's the World Champion. That's the Sgt. Slaughter AWA World Title reign in a nutshell. He's a tin foil and construction paper belt champion.

Finally, Fact #3: The AWA brass wants Sgt. Slaughter to be their World Champion!

Never has something been so obvious! The AWA wants Sarge to be their standard bearer for reasons unknown! They seem to want me to fail!

Well, here's the deal!

The day is coming when Sgt. Slaughter and The King will face off in a match to decide who the undisputed AWA World Champion is.

And the people at the top of the AWA: Verne Gagne, Stanley Blackburn and Wally Karbo are gonna be in for a major letdown when I emerge as the undisputed, unquestioned, unchallenged AWA World Champion! They won't be able to deny me what is rightfully mine!

Set a date! Make the match! And let's prepare for a coronation of the AWA's REAL World Champion!

Pic then switched to Sarge.

AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter was standing in front of the AWA logo in his ring attire and DI hat. He had the belt slung over his left shoulder and a mic in his right hand.

Sarge: I heard what Jerry Lawler said about facts!

Well, I have a few facts I want to lay down on the 'Court Jester'...excuse me...the 'King of Wrestling' Jerry Lawler!

Fact #1: Lawler won the title from Curt Henning in May 1988!

Fact #2: Lawler defeated Kerry Von Erich to retain the AWA World Title at Super Clash 3!

Fact #3: Here's where it gets interesting!

Not long after defeating Von Erich at Super Clash Lawler up and vanished! To use military speak: he was MIA...Missing In Action!

Fact #4: Because Lawler seemed to fall off the face of the earth a Battle Royal was held in January of this year to determine a new AWA World Champion!

Larry Zbyszko won the Battle Royal and became the new World Champion!

Fact #5: In April of this year, I won a #1 Contender's Battle Royal and then defeated Larry Zbyszko to become the new AWA World Champion!

Where was Lawler all this time?! He was nowhere to be found!

Fact #6: Lawler shows up unannounced at the June TV taping in Las Vegas!

He makes his claim that he's the true AWA World Champion because he never lost the belt!

Fact #7: He never lost the belt because he never showed up to defend the belt in the first place!

Lawler went AWOL!

I won the World Title fair and square when I beat Zbyszko that night in April!

I don't think...I know I'm the true AWA Champion!

But Lawler has come in and caused so much confusion and chaos that it's become apparent that only a match between us to decide who the undisputed champion is will settle this matter once and for all!

Lawler! Let's have the match!

That is all! Dismissed!

Sarge saluted.

END VIDEO

In-Studio: Larry Nelson said both men seemed to present a strong case for their opinions. But actions speak louder than words and the only fact that will matter in the end is who walks out of the ring the undisputed AWA World Champion when the two clash.

Pic aired of the Destruction Crew with the caption: NEXT... THE CHAMPS!

Commercials/Market-Specific promos for upcoming house shows/Generic promos for non-house show cities

NON-TITLE: The Destruction Crew (WTTC) won a squash match over Tom Leykis and Shadoe Stevens via pinfall when Bloom pinned Stevens after the Wrecking Ball (aka, Doomsday Device)

POST-MATCH INTERVIEW:

Nelson: Wayne Bloom and Mike Enos, you guys are on a roll as the tag team champions. Is there anyone who can stop you right now?

Enos: It's like this, Larry Nel...

Bloom patted Enos on the shoulder.

Enos: What?

Bloom: Do you really want to stand out here and talk to this clown and the rest of these losers?

Enos: Do you?

Nelson: Wait. What's going on? We're supposed to be doing an...

Bloom: Interview's over, man. We don't feel like talkin'.

Enos: Bye!

The champs walked off and left the ring for the floor as the crowd booed.

Nelson: The Destruction Crew doesn't want to do an interview!

The champs headed back up the heel aisle, belts slung over their left shoulders, with some garbage and boos thrown in their direction.

Nelson: Well, that's that!

Video aired from the previous match between Zbyszko and Gagne with the caption: NEXT... THE RE-MATCH!

Commercials

TV MAIN EVENT - THE RE-MATCH: Larry Zbyszko vs. Greg Gagne

Gagne got a decent amount of cheers coming out. Zbyszko was strongly booed.

Bell rang and the two men came out of their corners and engaged in a wild punch exchange. Fans into it early. Greg got the upper hand. Zbyszko staggered. Greg whipped Zbyszko into the corner and charged in and monkey flipped Zbyszko out of the corner. Zbyszko sat up and Greg nailed Zbyszko with a snap mare. Zbyszko to his feet holding the back of his neck when Greg caught Zbyszko with a dropkick that sent Zbyszko crashing to the mat. Zbyszko quickly rolled out of the ring and dropped to the floor and started walking around. Greg went to go after Zbyszko but the ref ordered Greg to stand back. Ref began the 10-count. Zbyszko had words with some hecklers at ringside. Count grew and Zbyszko quickly rolled in and out of the ring and dropped back to the floor. Crowd booing. Zbyszko stalking around. Greg tried to leave the ring but the ref intercepted him and ordered him to stand back once more. Ref re-started the 10-count. Zbyszko stalking around ringside. Zbyszko again turned to have words with ringside hecklers and Greg had enough and bolted the ring for the floor. Ref had to re-start the 10-count. Greg came up behind Zbyszko, spun him around and fired away on Zbyszko with more punches. Greg went to whip Zbyszko into the post but Zbyszko reversed and sent Greg crashing shoulder-first into the post. Greg waked off holding his shoulder. Zbyszko climbed into the ring and broke the count. Greg came over and started to climb back into the ring but Zbyszko short-circuited that with a boot to the top of head through the top and middle rope. Greg stunned. Zbyszko then reached over the top rope, grabbed Greg by the air and deliberately slammed Greg's head into the ring apron. Ref ordered Zbyszko back and Zbysko grabbed Greg by the hair and repeated the move. Ref ordered Zbyszko to step back and Zbysko stepped back for 2 seconds before going back over and slamming Greg's head into the apron once again. Greg to a knee on the floor. Zbyszko yelled at the ref to count. Count grew and Greg, at the count of 8, rolled back into the ring. Zbyszko moved in and stomped away on the downed Greg. Zbyszko snapped Greg up and locked Greg into position for a swinging neckbreaker but Greg was able to drive Zbyszko back-first into the corner. Zbysko lost his grip on Greg.

Greg was able to hit Zbyszko with a series of knees to the gut. Greg pulled Zbyszko out of the corner, whipped Zbysko into the ropes and caught Zbyszko coming off with a dropkick. Zbyszko crashed to the mat. Zbyszko up and Greg moveed in and took Zbyszko over with a flying head scissors . Zbyszko locked in the head scissors. Zbyszko tried to escape but Greg had it firmly locked in. Zbyszko was finally able to get to his feet and maneuver his head around between Greg's legs (the comedy just writes itself). Zbyszko was able to escape, grab Greg's legs and flip over on top of Greg for the pin. 1...2... Greg managed to bridge out, maneuver around and catch Zbyszko in a backslide. Zbyszko fought going over at first but Greg eventually succeeded and caught Zbyszko in the backslide for the pin. 1...2... Zbyszko kicked out. Fans groaned. Both men up and Greg caught Zbyszko with a kick to the side of the ribs. Greg bodyslammed Zbyszko and went over and mounted the middle buckle and came off with a flying knee drop but Zbyszko rolled out of the way and Greg crashed knee-first into the mat. Greg down holding his knee. Zbyszko moved in and stomped the left knee area. Zbyszko grabbed Greg's left leg, yanked on it, channeled Ric Flair and went to school. Zbyszko locked Greg in the figure four. Greg in dire pain trying not to submit to his #1 rival. As the ref checked on Greg, Zbyszko took the opportunity to grab the middle rope to add pressure to an already painful hold. Greg in serious pain but not giving up. Ref looked over and Zbyszko quickly released the rope. Ref checked on Greg again and asked Greg if he submitted. While the ref looked at Greg, Zbyszko once again grabbed the middle rope for leverage. Greg writhing in absolute pain. Fans yelling for the ref to look at LZ. Ref looked over and caught Zbyszko and ordered a break in the hold. Zbyszko up and wasted no time snapping up Greg and going for the piledriver. Greg twice blocked the move and backdropped Zbyszko to the mat. Zbyszko up to his feet and Greg up to a knee. Zbyszko moved in on Greg and Greg stunned Zbyszko with a head shot. Greg, left leg hobbled, made it to his feet and moved in on Zbyszko. Zbyszko went to punch Greg but Greg blocked the punch try and Greg, almost hopping around for balance, fired away on Zbyszko with punches to the delight of the crowd. Greg grabbed the stunned Zbyszko and slammed Zbyszko's head into the top turnbuckle three times. Zbyszko staggered away and turned and walked right into a high dropkick from Greg. Zbyszko crashed to the mat. Greg pulled Zbyszko over into position for a turnbuckle move.

Blears: If Greg is setting up for his flying bodypress, normally he would bodyslam the man first. But it's obvious that his left leg is bothering him a great deal from being locked in that figure four and a slam attempt would be too risky.

Greg stomped Zbyszko and then climbed out on the apron. Greg slowly, and I mean slowly, climbed to the top turnbuckle. Greg got to the top and his left leg gave out and Greg crotched himself on the top buckle and fell back into the ring. Both men down. Ref started the 10-count. Zbyszko crawled over and covered Greg and hooked the leg. 1...2...thr... Greg got a shoulder up. Crowd cheered. The old rivalry had truly been renewed. Zbyszko up and grabbed Greg by the legs and dragged Greg to the middle of the ring. Zbyszko went to lock Greg into the figure four when Greg reached up and caught Zbyszko in a small package for the pin. 1...2... Zbyszko kicked out. Both men laid there for a few seconds and then both slowly made it to their feet. Zbyszko moved in and caught Greg with a kick to the gut and went for the piledriver again. Greg blocked the move, reached down and grabbed Zbyszko's legs and pulled them out from under him. Zbyszko crashed to the mat. Now it was Greg's turn to teach school, go to school, whatever. Greg held onto Zbyszko's left leg and wrapped Zbyszko up in the figure four. Crowd popped big time. Zbyszko writhing in pain in the hold and trying not to give up. Zbyszko started scooting closr to the ropes while locked in the hold. Crowd urging Greg on. Zbyszko moved a little closer but was stopped because of the pain. Zbyszko not submitting. Zbyszko then tried to reverse the hold and started to turn Greg over but Greg managed to shift his weight and regain control of the hold. More crowd cheering. Zbyszko was close to the ropes and scooted close enough to grab the middle rope and force a break in the hold. Zbyszko, with the aid of the ropes, got to his feet. Now both men gimpy. Greg grabbed Zbyszko and went to whip Zbyszko into the ropes but Zbyszko reversed and caught Greg coming off with a spinning sole kick to the chest. Greg crashed to the mat and was hurting. As the ref checked on Greg, Zbyszko turned towards the crowd, reached into his tights and pulled out a foreign object that he concealed in his right hand. Greg painfully made it to his feet. Zbyszko moved in and caught Greg flush in the jaw with a foreign object shot. Greg crashed to the mat. Ref checked on Greg gain and Zbyszko quickly turned and dropped the object back in his tights out of the view of the ref. Zbyszko pushed the ref out of the way, dropped down and and went for the cover. 1...2...thr... Greg got his foot on the bottom rope. Crowd popped. Zbyszko pissed. Zbyszko snapped up Greg and went to whip Greg into the ropes but Greg reversed and caught Zbyszko coming off with another dropkick. Zbyszko crashed to the mat and rolled over. Greg down as well. Both men made it slowly to their feet and barely beat the 10-count. Zbyszko up by the ropes and Greg charged/hobbled over and caught Zbyszko with a running clothesline line. Both men went toppling over the top rope and crashing to the floor. Both men down. Ref started the 10-count. Both men started getting up. Both men up and Zbyszko caught Greg in the side of the left knee area with a stiff kick. Greg went back down. Ref's count hit 10 and he called for the bell.

DECISION: Double Count Out - 14:24

Zbyszko went over and grabbed an empty chair from next to the timekeeper's table. Greg still down holding his left knee. Zbyszko sat the chair at ringside. Ref checking on Greg. Zbyszko grabbed the ref and threw him to the side. Zbyszko stomped on Greg and then snapped Greg up and walked Greg the few steps to the chair and hoisted Greg up and hit Greg with a modified front suplex that halved Greg on the back of the chair. Greg down to the floor and in worse shape. Greg now grabbing his mid-section. Fans popped as face wrestlers came out of the back...and so did Verne Gagne. Verne immediately went over and checked on Greg as Zbyszko fled the scene. Verne concerned about his son as the program ended.

END PROGRAM

DARK MATCHES

MATCH TO DETERMINE THE UNDISPUTED AWA WORLD CHAMPION: Sgt. Slaughter and Jerry Lawler wrestled to a double count out - 16:18

SOMBRERO ON A POLE AWA WORLD TAG TEAM TITLE MATCH: The Destruction Crew (WTTC) def. The Guerrero Bros. when Mike Enos captured the sombrero - 12:31

AWA WOMEN'S WORLD TITLE MATCH: Wendi Richter def. Lelani Kai via pinfall when Richter reversed a small package - 7:05

ATTENDANCE: 2,502 (Best for an ASW taping a while.)

'TROOPER' DEL WILKES

 

[the autumn wind]

SUMMER 1989

AWA HEADQUARTERS - ST. LOUIS PARK, MN

The summer was winding down...

Verne Gagne had gotten the attendance figures for the late August house shows headlined by Sgt. Slaughter and Jerry Lawler in a battle to determine the undisputed AWA World Champion.

The tickets sales for the three towns were:

Aug. 25 - Omaha, NE - Civic Auditorium - 2,733

Aug. 26 - Fargo, ND - Bison Sports Arena - 3,400

Aug. 27 - Sioux Falls, SD - Sioux Falls Arena - 5,913

Overall, Verne was pleased with the numbers; especially the unexpectedly huge turnout in Sioux Falls. Huge day of the show walk-up crowd.

Fans were interested in the Lawler-Sarge program.

They were gonna run a few more houses in September with Lawler-Sarge on top.

But cities they were returning to that had the Lawler-Sarge match in July or August would be getting a six-man tag team main event pitting disputed AWA World Champion Lawler and the World Tag Team Champions The Destruction Crew against AWA World Champion Sgt. Slaughter, Brad Rheingans and Ken Patera.

Would there still be enough fan interest to buy tickets for the tag match main at the houses?

Ticket sales for the re-match in September between Sarge and Lawler in Vegas were better than previous TV tapings at the Showboat, but still down a pretty sizable margin from the sales for the August tapings where the two first squared off.

Things were much better now than they were at this time a few months ago.

But money was still an issue. And the AWA was still in a deep hole.

After shooting down Winnipeg Jets' owner Barry Shenkarow's offer to buy the promotion, Verne had no new potential buyers left on the horizion.

As he sat at his desk in deep thought, a loud knock on the door stunned him.

Verne: Come in.

The door opened and it was Greg Gagne. Greg walked in and closed the door behind him.

Verne: Hi, son.

Greg sat in one of the chairs in front of pop's desk and leaned forward.

Greg just looked at his dad.

Verne: What is it?

Greg: Dad, you won't believe it.

Verne: What?

Greg: I just got a call from a friend. He's found a potential buyer. He thinks the buyer...or in this case buyers...could be the real deal like Bob Lurie would have been if he hadn't died unexpectedly.

Verne: Really? Who are these two new possible buyers?

Greg: Are you ready?

Verne: Well. Tell me.

Greg: It's Deborah Harry and John Waters.

Verne: Deborah Harry and John... I think I've heard the woman's name before. She some kind of pop singer?

Greg: She's the lead singer of the band Blondie.

Verne: And the man? He also in entertainment?

Greg: He's a Hollywood film director who made that movie Hairspray last year. Deborah Harry was one of the stars in it.

Verne: Sounds interesting. That's serious money.

Greg: You bet it is.

My friend told me that they are serious about this. He said Deborah Harry loves wrestling.

Just think, if she's one of the buyers then you have a built-in rock 'n' wrestling connection!

Father and son shared a laugh.

Greg: If you want to, my friend can pass along the message you're interested.

Verne: Okay. Have him give them both my home and office number and tell them to call me any time before midnight any day of the week.

Greg: Will do.

Greg got up and walked towards the door. He was pumped.

Greg opened the door and turned back to his dad.

Greg: I really think this could be it, dad.

You and mom would be set and you'd also have the money for your lawsuit.

Verne: Sounds promising. But, I'm approaching it cautiously. Remember how we got our hopes up with the Lurie deal.

Greg: I know. But I don't think lightning will strike twice like that.

If you're bought out by people like that who have the money they do...well...Vince could have some serious competition on his hands if they play their cards right.

Verne: Just have to wait and see, I guess.

Make sure your friend gets my numbers to pass along ASAP.

Greg: Will do.

Greg closed the door behind him.

Verne turned in his chair and looked out the big picture window in his office.

Summer was coming to a close and if this was indeed a serious offer from John Waters and Deborah Harry, then Verne Gagne's legendary run in the wrestling business may be coming to a close as well.

STAY TUNED...

The next AWA owners? Deborah Harry and John Waters.

 

[the autumn wind]

FROM THE...

WRESTLING NARC NEWSLETTER

By Charlie Harper

AWA boss Verne Gagne's decision to run house shows in September in three cities he's never run before is probably not a good sign for the flailing company.

It's good to see that business has been sharply up in many cities where Sgt. Slaughter vs. Jerry Lawler to determine the undisputed AWA World Champion is the main event. But, the AWA is still deeply in the red and the Sarge-Lawler program is going to end at Super Clash 4. Sorry, but bringing in the likes of Greg Valentine and Dick Murdoch and bringing back former AWA World Champion Stan Hansen for a brief run against the winner of the match at SC 4 is only a Band-Aid solution at best.

When Bob Lurie bought the company, ESPN wanted to give the AWA a set weekly primetime slot. Things were going to start opening back up in Canada. A merchandise team was coming in to create and market new merchandise for the company. When Lurie died suddenly all that went away.

The AWA is still where it was before the Lurie deal. No set slot on ESPN. Canada deal collapses. The merchandise team that Lurie was bringing to the company bailed as well.

What happens when the Sarge-Lawler program ends? An educated guess is that business once again falls off a cliff. Crowds in the thousands, including a great turnout of almost 6,000 fans for a Lawler-Sarge main in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, will most likely fall back into the hundreds to just over 1,000 range. Hansen was a good AWA World Champion. He's one hell of a heel. But his name value is limited in this country. Of course, AWA fans and hardcore fans will remember him. But will he move tickets?

The same can be said about Greg Valentine. Valentine coming to the AWA in '86 or '87 probably would have meant something for business. But Valentine is looked at now by most fans as mid-card talent. Valentine can still go in the ring. But will the fans care enough to shell out their money to see him in one of the company's top programs?

Murdoch is a non-starter. What are they bringing him in for? To put young talent over to elevate them? Murdoch's appeal has always been limited to certain parts of the country. And teaming with Dusty as part of the heel Outlaws in the AWA seems like a lifetime ago.

Which brings us back to my opening sentence.

Verne decided to book a three city tour of Seattle, Reno and Anaheim. He clearly booked this tour in haste as he did it only when he got back from Vegas and the August round of TV tapings. The build-up in the three cities has been poor. Outside of promos on the syndicated shows geared toward each specific market and the dates mentioned in the AWA On Tour promo on the cable show, Verne has taken out three or four small page ads in the local papers as well as had a few radio spots, voiced by a company salesman named Eric Bischoff, and a few late night TV ads air in each market. They've basically had two weeks to sell tickets with a little over two weeks left until the shows.

Lawler-Sarge for the undisputed title will be the main at each show.

Ticket sales so far:

Seattle (Sept. 15): Less than 800

Reno (Sept. 16): Less than 1,000

Anaheim (Sep. 17): Just under 2,000

Verne has to fly the boys to each city and then back to Minneapolis and that's not going to be cheap.

Anaheim is the most important date here as the promotion intends to roll the dice and hold their 16-man tournament to decide the company's first-ever Pro Wrestling Heritage Champion at the Fourm in Inglewood, CA in February 1990.

Info we've received is that they're going to put tickets on sale for the two session tournament during the Anaheim show and will announce it to the crowd during intermission and the only way you will be able to buy tickets that night is to show your ticket for that evening's show. Also, tickets are going to be sold for both sessions only. You can't buy a ticket for just one session.

Anaheim is Verne's test run for Los Angeles. It might be better if he held the tournament in Anaheim as well as there's much more to do in Anaheim than in Inglewood. If the tournament is taking place in Inglewood as currently planned, they already nixed booking the Capital Centre in Landover, MD for the event, it would be better to hold the two sessions in one day with an afternoon and evening session. Inglewood is not the best area to be killing time in. Anaheim would be better if the tournament is taking place over two evenings. Great place to visit. A true tourist town with lots to do.

The next few weeks, including how well Super Clash 4 does at the box office, could settle Verne's fate once and for all.

He needs a miracle to make it work.