spaldoni

Blackman is becoming a contender. I'm sure the Midnights won't underestimate opponents again. It's now official, Hart and Austin are an alliance. Austin will quickly learn the ropes. Not sure if anyone can stop the Rainbow Warriors. Cactus and the Jackal are heading for a wild and crazy showdown. Cow Palace, Austin's name is rapidly rising. The heat is boiling between the Playboy Club and Dreamboats. The Destruction Crew are having an impressive reign. Dustin retains against the Ace. Windham walks out with the title after another classic with Hart. Windham's back on track. Fresno, Wow, big win for the New Generation as their buzz continues. Southern Boys are snapping and that's what was needed to go head on with the Wrecking Crew. I love the Steamboat/Chono match up. The Can Am/Phoenix match shows how competitive the PCW tag division is. Hennig has been chalking up a lot of wins lately. Pillman gets a satisfying win over the Jackal but it wasn't easy. 2 big main events announced for Hawaii. The champs will have their hands full because the challengers have been on a roll.

AWA TV @ The Hammond Center 2-16-89 Larry Nelson: Hello everybody and welcome to AWA Major League Wrestling. And when I say Major League, I mean it. Because tomorrow night on Sports Channel America, Title Night will be shown and it's certain to be an epic and historic event for the AWA. All the titles will be defended and making his grand appearance will be none other than the immortal Hulk Hogan! We'll be talking more about that throughout tonight's show. Speaking of tonight, you will see The Bruisers and Jim Morris take on The British Bombers and Kokina. Spike Huber versus Glamour Doll. And in the main event, Bob Armstrong and Bill Dundee go up against Austin Idol and Chicky Starr. Ok, let's get to the ring. The San Juan Saints vs. Samson Smith and Richard Dalton Saints get the crowd pumping and win the match with a double suplex followed by stereo elbow drops. Saints cut a promo and say they're ready for their upcoming matches with Vinergy and are going to prove they're serious contenders. Commercial Break Larry Nelson runs down the Title Night card and hypes up Hulk Hogan. 'The Foreman' Spike Huber vs. Glamour Doll A few weeks ago, these two wrestled to a time limit draw. Tonight, they go at it as soon as the bell rings. It's back and forth action. Huber gets control with a back elbow smash and works Doll over. Doll comes back after an eye rake and takes it to Huber. Doll slams Huber and follows with a sling shot splash but Huber kicks out at 2. Doll berates the Ref. Doll picks up Huber for a slam but Huber cradles Doll 1..2..3! Big POP! Huber rolls out of the ring and celebrates while Doll throws a tantrum. Commercial Break The Dragon Kings vs. Royce Richardson and Harold Bannister The Dragon Kings give the fans quite a wrestling display. Takano hits a snap suplex and tags in Fujinami, who finishes things off with a Dragon Suplex. Nelson: I'm here with the Dragon Kings and I have to say, I'm impressed with what I've seen so far. WHAM!!! The Dragon Kings are attacked by Sweet Dreams. Dream Machine swings Fujinami into the steel post as Sugar slams Takano on the concrete. Nelson: Just what the hell are you guys doing?! Sugar: Showing them who's boss! Dream: That's right! Why are they getting all the attention? We're the hottest team in the AWA! Sweet Dreams babay! And don't you forget it! Commercial Break Vinergy and 'The Fortunate One' Gary Young w/The Vin Man vs. Vic Dutro, Willie Lopez and Clint Moore Dukes hits a missile dropkick, Putski hits the Polish hammer and Young finally finishes things off with a tornado DDT. Nelson: Vinnie, I have to admit, your boys looked pretty good tonight Vin: Oh Larbo, you've finally opened your eyes. Are these guys great or what. Now, we heard those San Juan Stooges out here talking and they must be delusional if they think they can beat Vinergy. That'll never happen. Never! Now my man Gary has something to say. Young: Thank you, Vin Man. Tom Brandi, you've become a real thorn in my side boy! You think you can play with the big boys? Think again because it's time to teach you a lesson and that's just what I'm going to do. Vin: YEA! Commercial Break Nelson: Fans, tomorrow night will be a ground breaking night indeed. It all happens on Sports Channel America and I'm talking about Title Night. I still can't believe it but it's going to happen. Hulk Hogan will be in the Mecca and he's going to talk to Ken Resnick inside the squared circle. That's right! Hulkamania is going to run wild, here in the AWA. What a historic moment that will be. All the AWA titles will be defended and you'll also see a world title number one contender's match. Trust me, you won't want to miss this epic night. Commercial Break 'Big' Jim Morris and The Bruisers vs. Kokina and The British Bombers Skandor Akbar is in Milwaukee with AWA Southern Champ Larry Cameron. This is a wild one as it begins with a pier six brawl. The Bruisers and Bombers tear into each other. The Fans cheer as Morris and Kokina have a stare down. The fans explode as Morris and Kokina have a furious exchange. The Ref can't get control and signals for the bell, calling it a double DQ. The Bruisers and Bombers continue to fight on the outside. Kokina swings Morris to the ropes but misses a clothesline, Morris swings back and nails Kokina with a big boot to the head. Kokina staggers back and falls through the ropes. The fans are up and cheering. Commercial Break 'The World's Strongest Man' Bill Kazmaier vs. Todd Rooney The fans chant 'Kaz' throughout the match. Kaz wins the match with the Argentine backbreaker. Kaz cuts a promo on Cannonball Griz and says they have another fight coming! Commercial Break 'Bullet' Bob Armstrong and 'Superstar' Bill Dundee vs. 'The Universal Heartthrob" Austin Idol and Chicky Starr Fun TV main event. The fans get their share of some great Armstrong/Idol moments. Chicky and Dundee get their shine in as well. A few minutes in, Armstrong is pinballing Idol all over the ring. Idol gets back dropped and bounces over to tag in Starr. Starr comes in and gets back dropped. Starr staggers up into the wrong corner and gets punched by Dundee. Starr falls back into the Ref. Idol runs in as does Dundee. The Ref gets up and guides Dundee to his corner, which allows Idol to pull a foreign object out. Armstrong hoists Starr up for a piledriver but Idol nails Armstrong with the foreign object. Dundee charges back in and punches away on Idol. Starr covers Armstrong as the Ref counts 1..2..3! BOOOOO! Commercial Break Nelson: Fans, last week we saw the return of Nikita Koloff. Well, he's here today. Please welcome out Nikita Koloff! The fans cheer as Nikita comes out. Nikita nods to them and walks over to Nelson. Nelson: Nikita, I know you have a score to settle with Sgt. Slaughter. Nikita: Sgt. Slaughter! You cost Nikita the world title! Now it time for Nikita to get revenge! Last week you felt the Russian Sickle and that was only the beginning. Your pain and suffering has just begun! Nikita does his trap pose. The show ends with a rundown of Title Night. Tomorrow night on Sports Channel America. From the Mecca in Milwaukee. See previous post for complete card.

A wild match kicks things off! Poor Whatley just can't get it together. Street gives young Dundee some good advice. We'll see if he listens. The Stud Stable's heelish tactics give them the big win. Good showcases for Kid, Anderson and Pitbull. Damn, the Horsemen were in total sync tonight. I loved that finish. I really like how your booking this feud. Right now, the Horsemen are coming off as some bad ass grizzled vets. It now gives the Road Warriors something to overcome. Worldwide, Nice seeing the Buffalo Soldiers get some TV time. Same with Wahoo. I have a feeling something big is in the works for Budro. The main event ended like it should. We'll see if this all gets settled at SuperBrawl. Speaking of SuperBrawl, I think Garvin and Orton are going to tear the house down. Such a good match up.

That's really cool you met Tugboat.

Big way to start the night as the Rockers get their long awaited match with Demolition. I also think we're going to get a Steiners/Varsity Club match as well. Things are already heating up. Thanks to a lot of commotion, Savage edges out Martel. Another big story happens here with Sherri. Just what is going on? Added to all this, Paul E and Muta make the Mania challenge to Martel. Things are getting better and better. OK! Savage vs. Warrior at Mania! It's going to happen! OOOOHHHHH YEA! WrestleMania is really shaping up.

AWA @ The Met Center, Bloomington MN 2-10-89 The Dragon Kings (Tatsumi Fujinami and George Takano) defeated Two Local Talents with a double back suplex 'Big' Jim Morris vs. Glamour Doll Doll did everything he could but once Morris clamped on the bearhug it was all over. 'The World's Strongest Man' Bill Kazmair vs. Cannonball Griz These two gave the fans a hard hitting slugfest that ended up on the outside which resulted in a Double C.O. The San Juan Saints and 'Thrilling' Tom Brandi vs. Vinergy and 'The Fortunate One' Gary Young w/The Vin Man The fans get a 20 minute roller coaster ride as both sides put on a show. In the end, Brandi catches Young with a reverse flying press off the turnbuckles for the thrilling win. 'Mean' Mike Miller vs. 'The Foreman' Spike Huber Huber had things going his way and even got Miller up for an airplane spin, but an eye rake by Miller stopped the momentum. Miller takes control and puts Huber down with the Shoulder Breaker. 'Superstar' Bill Dundee vs. Chicky Starr 10 minutes wasn't enough time as these guys battle to a time limit draw. 'The Fabulous One' Steve Keirn and The Bruisers VS. AWA Southern Champ 'Lethal' Larry Cameron and The British Bombers w/Skandor Akbar As you can imagine, this one gets wild. At the 30 minute mark a pier six brawl ensues. Akbar takes advantage of the chaos and hits Steve Strong with a chair. As Strong stumbles forward, Cameron puts him down with a running forearm blast to get the tainted win. 'Bullet' Bob Armstrong vs. 'The Universal Heartthrob' Austin Idol These two vets prove they can still main event a show. They give the fans an old fashion southern fight. Armstrong starts to bleed bad. Idol starts working the leg and goes for the Las Vegas Leglock but Armstrong cradles him for the 1..2..3! Huge Pop! A pissed off Idol starts pounding away on Armstrong. Idol swings Armstrong to the ropes but misses a clothesline. Armstrong swings back and clotheslines Idol over the top rope. A bloody Armstrong stands tall as the fans cheer. Idol starts throwing chairs into the ring as Armstrong begs him to come back into the ring. AWA TITLE NIGHT Saturday, February 17th From the Mecca Live on Sports Channel America AWA World Title Bout Jumbo Tsuruta (C) w/Ray Stevens vs. Iceman Parsons AWA World Tag Team Title Bout The Guerreros (C) vs. The Fantastics AWA Mid-American Title Bout 'Mr. Wonderful' Paul Orndorff (C) vs. 'Mad Dog' Buzz Sawyer AWA Southern Title Bout 'Lethal' Larry Cameron (C) vs. 'The Fabulous One' Steve Keirn AWA National Tag Title Bout The Gunslingers (C) vs. The Olympians AWA TV Title Bout 'Blockbuster' Brian Adias (C) vs. Leo Burke World Title Number One Contender's Match El Canek vs. 'The Living Legend' Larry Zbyszko AND An interview with the Immortal HULK HOGAN!!!!!

One thing is for sure, Dreamer has his partner's back. A lot of stars are rising in PCW and Austin is coming up fast. Christopher manages to hold on to his title, but I think he has a rough road ahead. Rose only wants help from the Playboy Club. The Jackal found that out. The Rainbow Warriors are looking for redemption against the Midnights. WOW! That's 2 for Steamboat. Can he do it with the title on the line? I can't wait to find out. Portland, LOL, well, I think we know what the Jackal's strengths are. Billy Jack continues his path of destruction. Pillman gets in on some wild 6 man action. Bret gets a satisfying fall on Adams, but there will be a lot more to come. The Bulldozer was on his A game, but Windham had something to prove. Eugene, The New Generation have been giving the fans a lot of thrills. Tenryu has been mowing over the competition. Hall found a way to bet Chono. Albright gets the win, but Austin gets his respect. Severn is back to doing what he does best. I think Regal just earned a rematch. I have a feeling Regal might end up taking the CA title.

AWA TV @ The Hammond Center 2-9-89 Larry Nelson: Hello everyone and welcome to AWA Major League Wrestling. As you all know, we're only one week away from Title Night. That event will take place at the Mecca in Milwaukee. And as we heard last week, it will be televised on Sports Channel America. All the AWA titles will be defended as well as a number one world title contender's match. As if all that wasn't enough, the Immortal Hulk Hogan returns to the AWA and will be interviewed by our own Ken Resnick. What a historic night that will be. As for tonight's program, you will see a tag team grudge match between the High Chiefs and Rose Cousins. And in the main event, AWA Mid American Champ Paul Orndorff teams with the Fantastics to take on Buzz Sawyer and the AWA World Tag Champs, the Guerreros. All that and a lot more, so let's get to the ring. Iceman Parsons vs. Neil Jordan Parsons dances down the aisle as 'We are Family' blasts over the speakers. Parsons excites the fans throughout the match and then hits the Hip Attack for the win. Nelson: Iceman, next week at Title Night, you have the opportunity of a lifetime when you meet Jumbo Tsuruta for the AWA world title. I'm sure you heard the comments from Ray Stevens last week. Parsons: Oh yea, I heard the comments and let me tell you something Ray Stevens. I'm no pushover daddy. I can wrestle and I can get down and fight. And believe me, I'm going to Title Night with only one thing in mind. To win the AWA world title and that's a fact Jack! Commercial Break AWA TV Champ 'Blockbuster' Brian Adias vs. Carl Kelleman Adias is full of arrogance and finishes things off with a cradle suplex for the easy win. Nelson: I'm sure I speak for everybody when I say how lucky we are to witness our TV champion in a match here on TV. Adias: You know something Larry. Smart I like, smart ass I don't. So, watch your mouth! The reason I took a break from my grueling Hollywood schedule is because I got a call from the AWA saying they needed a desperate boost in ratings. Well, here I am to save the day. On a related note, Title Night is going to be shown on Sports Channel America. Well, they wanted to make sure the AWA produces record breaking numbers. In order to do that, Blockbuster Brian Adias needs to be there. I'll be there alright and the world will get to see a flawless performance. Leo Burke will be in the wrong place at the wrong time. That flop doesn't stand a chance. Speaking of flops. I understand Hulk Hogan will be there. Hogan! I'm the headliner in the AWA and you better know your place. Adias puts on his sunglasses and walks away. Nelson just rolls his eyes. Commercial Break Footage is shown from a few weeks ago when the High Chiefs attacked the Rose Cousins with War Clubs. The Rose Cousins vs. The High Chiefs Before the bell rings, the Rose Cousins attack the High Chiefs on the outside. Both teams brawl around the ring and into the crowd. The match is declared a no contest but the fight goes on for a few more minutes. Several officials try to break it up but the fight keeps going. Prelim wrestlers run out and the scene gets more chaotic. Commercial Break Highlights are shown of Terry Gordy on his Japan tour. Nelson: My goodness, things are finally under control. Looks like the war has just begun between the High Chiefs and Rose Cousins. Fans, Title Night is going to be an epic night for the AWA. All titles on the line and Hulk Hogan will be there. I can't wait to hear what he has to say. The buzz is in the air and I can feel the excitement. Speaking of excitement. This weekend at the Met Center, the AWA has a huge card coming. Lots of big matches signed including Bob Armstrong vs. Austin Idol. You wont want to miss that one. Ok, I've been told a match is set to take place, but it wasn't on my schedule here. I guess we're going to the ring. The Missing Link vs. George Jackson Link walks all around the ring holding the back of his head. He gets in the ring and hammers his opponent, then finishes him off with a diving headbutt from the middle ropes. Commercial Break AWA National Tag Team Champs The Gunslingers vs. Sam Smith and Roy Glader Gunslingers are on their A game and win the match with a double running bulldog. Nelson: Ok, at Title Night, you two will defend the National tag titles against the Olympians. This is a rematch from SuperClash 3. Boos as the Olympians stroll out. Nelson: Wait a minute, I don't want any trouble out here. Rheingans: Trouble? Come on Larry, we're Olympian athletes. We don't cause trouble. Patera: We're just out here to tell the hard working and tremendous champions, the Gunslingers that we're really looking forward to a clean and competitive match with them at Title Night. We don't want some bar room brawl. So let's stick to wrestling. Sound good boys? Casey: Look, we don't like the games you guys have been playing. Rheingans: We don't just play games, we win games. Mantell: Well, we won the last game at SuperClash and we're planning on winning the next game. Patera: Just calm down. We came out here with nothing but the best of intentions and now you guys want to get riled up. Just take it easy. Casey: We've had enough. We'll be at Title Night and we'll see you in the ring. Gunslingers hold up their titles and leave. Patera: Those guys egos are way too big. Rheingans: That's ok, we'll have to put them in check. Commercial Break 'The Living Legend' Larry Zbyszko vs. Frank Jurgens Zbyszko goes toe to toe with the fans and then gets down to business and wins the match with a swinging neckbreaker. Nelson: At Title Night, you will face El Canek in a number one contender's match for the AWA world title. Zbyszko: (gives Nelson a look of distain) Jeez Nelson, tell me something I don't know for once. The world title is the one and only title that's eluded me in my illustrious career. After I take care of that masked spudhead at Title Night, the world title is next and you can bet it's coming back to Larry Land. Commercial Break We see a well groomed and well dressed man carrying a box. He sets in down and opens it. He pulls out a sleek pair of wrestling boots. Man: Your custom made wrestling boots are ready Mr. St. Clair Tony St. Clair takes them, looks them over and tries them on. St. Clair: Splendid, simply splendid. Man: Nothing but the best for you Mr. St. Clair. Tony turns around and smiles at the camera. Tina Turner's Simply the Best plays. TONY 'Simply the Best' ST. CLAIR returns to the AWA Commercial Break AWA Mid-American Champ 'Mr. Wonderful' Paul Orndorff and The Fantastics vs. AWA World Tag Team Champs The Guerreros and 'Mad Dog' Buzz Sawyer This one's a good one as everybody gets a chance to shine. The Guerreros and Fantastics go back and forth, showing off their tag team excellence. Orndorff and Sawyer get in some good brawling moments. The match goes back and forth. Things get too intense and a pier six brawl ensues. Orndorff and Sawyer fight to the outside. Sawyer hits Orndorff with the ringside bell. The Ref is tied up with Chavo and Fulton. Rogers hits a flying press on Hector and has him pinned. Sawyer comes off the top rope and nails Rogers with the ringside bell. Hector rolls over on top of Rogers. The Ref turns around, runs over and counts 1..2..3! BOOOOOOOO Commercial Break We see a black screen. Eye of the Tiger starts to play. We see images of biceps, a cross, a red tank top, yellow trunks and a yellow headband. Then the face appears. HULK HOGAN comes to the AWA!!!! Saturday February 17th The Mecca in Milwaukee Live on Sports Channel America Commercial Break Sgt. Slaughter vs. Todd Rooney Slaughter clamps on the cobra clutch and it's all over. The bell is ringing but Slaughter is still wrenching away. The fans go wild! NIKITA KOLOFF hits the ring! Slaughter tosses his opponent and turns around. WHAM! Nikita puts Slaughter down with the Russian Sickle!!! The fans are up and cheering as Nikita stands tall over Slaughter. NIKITA! NIKITA! NIKITA!

Great follow up from the Rumble. Love the seeds planted for Wrestlemania. Main Event 2 should paint a pretty good picture for Mania, especially the Warrior/Rude match. Savage vs. Martel will be a dream match. Awesome ending with Rhodes standing side by side with the Von Erichs!

The Patriots and Badd Co. have a pretty good feud going on. Looks like the Patriots have somebody coming in to help even things up at SuperBrawl. Cool seeing Ron Garvin defending the world title in the UK. Slater gets in an attack on Manny, but the Assassin didn't seem to keen on his interference. Kamala still proves he's a beast. JYD is tuned up and ready for Fuller. That should be a fun match at SuperBrawl. You don't see the Road Warriors take a serious beating very often, but man did the Horsemen give them one tonight. Worldwide, Jaime helps his Dad's former partner out. I hope he knows what he's getting himself into. Those Horsemen don't play around. I'm pumped for SuperBrawl!

Austin wins the battle of rising stars. Even though they came up short, looks like Gunn has given the Southern Boys a jolt. Tag team chaos in Pacific. 89 could be a big year for the bulldozer. Ace impresses. Pillman is having the run of a lifetime, so no shame in losing to him. Rose knows this. I'm glad the Bret/Diamond Exchange is still going on. This will also help elevate Austin. Vancouver, Stormfront continues to rapidly rise the rankings. Playboy Club gets a satisfying win, but this war is far from over. I'm sure Bam Bam is going to want another piece of Hashimoto. Big win for Rhodes which helps solidify him as a true champion. Speaking of champs, the Destruction Crew has been pretty dominant. WOW! Steamboat scores a rare pin on the Widowmaker. No doubt this earns him a shot. Kelowna, Midnights shine and get the fall. Oh yea, the FOJ rack up another. Eddie and Regal put on a show stealing match. Severn once again proves why he's built for the submission title. As I said earlier, Pillman is on an unbelievable role. Who can stop his momentum?

AWA TV @ The Hammond Center 2-2-89 The show opens with a close up of the pink neon 'Beauty Shop' sign. Then the camera pans down to Brenda Britton. Britton: Hi everybody and welcome to a very very very special Beauty Shop. As I've told you a million times before, everything happens on the Beauty Shop, and I can tell you right now that the biggest announcement in wrestling history is going to happen right here and right now. Please welcome out the owner of the AWA Verne Gagne, the AWA C.O.O. Gerry Morrow and interviewer Ken Resnick. Verne, Gerry and Ken walk out wearing suits. Britton: When the owner of the AWA makes a televised appearance, we know this is going to be big. Go ahead Mr. Gagne, we're all dying to hear this blockbuster announcement. Verne: Thank you, Brenda. First off, I want to thank all of our great fans and their overwhelming support. The AWA is stronger than ever and we're expecting 1989 to be our biggest year yet. As you know on February 17th from the Mecca in Milwaukee, our next Title Night will take place. It will be a special televised event, shown on Sports Channel America. That's right, the AWA will now be seen on Sports Channel America, starting on February 17th. Britton: Wow! You weren't kidding. That's big news! Verne: Yes, it is, and the AWA is very excited to be working with Sports Channel America, where our product will be shown all across the nation. Britton: Outstanding! Verne: Brenda, that's only the beginning. The AWA recently acquired the biggest name in wrestling and he will appear at Title Night. Britton: Oh my goodness! Could it be? Is it? Verne: Coming to the AWA and appearing at Title Night will be the one and only, immortal HULK HOGAN! The crowd goes absolutely nuts!!!! Britton: No way! No way! Gerry! Gerry! Is this really happening? Morrow: AHHHHHHH Brenda, it is de truth and it will happen. Hulk Hogan is coming to the AWA! Britton: I can't believe it! The fans are still roaring. Verne: I can't believe it myself, but it is a reality. Hulk Hogan will appear for an interview at Title Night and Ken Resnick will be conducting that interview. Resnick: Verne, on behalf of the AWA, all our great fans and myself, thank you. February 17th will be a historic and groundbreaking night for the AWA. Verne: I couldn't agree more. I'm beyond excited and judging by this reaction, I know our fans are too. Britton: This was the greatest Beauty Shop ever! Hulk Hogan is coming to the AWA and you heard it here first. Toooooodles! Commercial Break 'The Fabulous One' Steve Keirn vs. George Kramer Keirn dominates and wins the match with a reverse DDT. Keirn cuts a promo about his upcoming AWA Southern Title shot at Title Night. He says Larry Cameron better be prepared, because Keirn's been on a fabulous roll in the AWA and he's going to carry that momentum to a championship win at Title Night. Commercial Break Glamour Doll vs. 'The Foreman' Spike Huber Talk about two opposites. Doll is in full 80s glam rock mode, while Huber represents the blue collar working man. The match goes back and forth. Doll breaks the rules but works Huber over with some impressive high flying moves. Huber comes back and almost pins Doll after an airplane spin. Doll comes back after an eye rake and gets more aggressive with chokes, stomps and kicks. Huber comes back after Doll misses a flying dropkick. Huber goes on a flurry with scoop slams, knee drops and elbow drops. Huber nails Doll with a clothesline but the bell rings, signaling a 10 minute draw. Doll is still down and Huber is disappointed. Commercial Break Larry Nelson recaps the Hulk Hogan announcement and that gets another huge pop from the fans. El Canek vs. Todd Rooney Canek is back from a successful tour of Mexico and is now tuning up for his number one contender's match with Larry Zbyszko at Title Night. Canek hits a backbreaker on his opponent and follows with the Bow and Arrow for the submission win. Commercial Break 'Big' Jim Morris vs. Trent Watkins Jim Croce's 'You don't mess around with Jim' blasts over the speakers as Morris enters the ring. After what happened last week, the fans already like Morris. Morris dominates the match with power moves and finishes things off with a bear hug. Nelson: Big Jim Morris, welcome to the AWA. We all saw you last week when you and Kokina had an intense stand off. Morris: Thank you very much Larry. It's great to be in the AWA. You know last week I was in the back and saw Skandor Akbar and his goons play the numbers game on the Bruisers. Kokina! Listen up real good boy. If you're looking for a man to fight, well here I am. But remember what the song says, you don't spit into the wind, you don't pull the mask off the old lone ranger, and you don't mess around with Jim! Commercial Break The San Juan Saints vs. Vinergy w/ The Vin Man See saw match as both teams show off impressive teamwork and chemistry. Vinnie gets in his interference and really frustrates the Saints. Vinergy control a segment with some hard hitting power moves. Saints come back and almost pin Putski after a double suplex but Dukes breaks it. A pier six brawl ensues. Vinnie gets on the top rope ready to interfere again, but TOM BRANDI storms out, hops on the apron and pushes Vinnie off. GARY YOUNG runs out but Brandi hops off the apron and they have a furious fist exchange. The Saints and Vinergy keep fighting and the Ref has no choice but to call for a Double DQ. Commercial Break Nelson once again plugs Hulk Hogan's appearance at Title Night which gets another thundering roar from the crowd. Cannonball Griz vs. Ray Glader Griz demolishes his opponent and wins the match with a big splash from the middle ropes. Griz cuts a promo on Bill Kazmaier and says if he's stupid enough to want another beating, come and get it! Commercial Break AWA Mid America Champ 'Mr. Wonderful' Paul Orndorff vs. Sam Smith The fans cheer as Orndorff puts his opponent down with the piledriver to get the win. WHAM! From behind Orndorff is clotheslined down by BUZZ SAWYER! Sawyer swings Orndorff to the ropes and powerslams him over! Sawyer crawls over to the camera and says "I told you we were going to get serious Orndorff" Sawyer then starts laughing. Commercial Break We see horses running by. Dory Funk Jr. walks up to the camera as the sun sets behind him. He takes off his cowboy hat and looks into the camera. Dory: This old dog might have some miles but believe me, this old dog still has some fight left. DORY FUNK JR. IS COMING TO THE AWA Back Live Sweet Dreams (Dream Machine and Sweet Brown Sugar) vs. The Wilson Twins Dream and Sugar do a lot of dancing and strutting but do get down to business. They finish things off with a double front face suplex. Nelson: Ok, Sweet Dreams is off to a good start. Sugar: That we are! We've got the moves, we've got the look and we're going to get some gold daddy! Dream: Nelson, I've been born again babay! I mean you just saw us. Are we amazing or what? Like Sugar said, we've got it all and babay aint nothing gonna stop us! Commercial Break Tommy Rogers w/Bobby Fulton vs. AWA World Tag Champ Hector Guerrero w/Chavo Guerrero These teams will meet in a rematch at Title Night, so we get a little preview with a one on one match. This match is full of chaos. Tommy and Hector have a fast paced match while on the outside Chavo and Bobby get into it a couple times. All four men almost have a brawl but luckily the Ref got control. After a few more minutes, the Ref goes down after Hector swung Rogers into him. On the outside Chavo dropkicks Fulton from behind. Inside the ring, Rogers cradles Hector but the Ref is still groggy. Chavo runs in the ring and reverses the cradle. As Chavo tries to help the Ref up, Fulton runs in the ring and dropkicks Chavo through the ropes. Fulton re reverses the cradle and pulls the Ref over. The Ref counts 1..2..3! Big Pop! The Fantastics exit and motion their arms around their waists, saying they've got the Guerreros number and will get the titles. Commercial Break Winner gets an AWA TV title shot at Title Night Leo Burke vs. 'Mean' Mike Miller Miller attacks at the bell and is relentless. Miller slams Burke and follows with angry stomps and kicks. Miller picks up Burke and throat drops him on the top rope 1..2..Kick Out. Miller chokes away on Burke. Miller picks up Burke by his throat and choke slams him down 1..2..Burke gets his foot on the rope. A frustrated Miller hurls Burke out of the ring and argues with the Ref. Miller goes outside on the apron. Burke staggers up as Miller goes for a double axehandle but Burke hits Miller in the stomach and flips him over. Burke fires up and hurls Miller into the ring. Burke swings Miller into the corner and follows with a running forearm blast. Burke follows with several forearm uppercuts. Burke swings Miller to the ropes and nails him with a flying high knee 1..2..Kick Out. Burke swings Miller into the corner and charges in but Miller moves. Burke hits hard and falls back and down. Miller is resting against the ropes. Both men stagger up. Miller rakes Burkes eyes and slams his head on the turnbuckle, then follows with a back suplex 1..2..Kick Out. Miller swings Burke into the corner and charges in, but Burke moves. Miller hits hard and stumbles back as Burke rolls him over 1..2..3!! Big Pop! Burke slides out of the ring and celebrates while Miller is pissed and threatening the Ref. Commercial Break Nelson: Fans, what a program this has been. Hulk Hogan is coming to the AWA and will be at Title Night. I still can't believe it. Speaking of Title Night. My guests this time are Ray Stevens and the AWA world champion Jumbo Tsuruta. Stevens is wearing jeans and a brown suit jacket while Jumbo is wearing a black suit with the title on his shoulder. Nelson: First off, congratulations on Jumbo successfully defending the AWA world title in Japan. Up next is Iceman Parsons at Title Night. Iceman has racked up a lot of impressive wins and Gerry Morrow took notice. Stevens: I don't care how many wins Iceman has racked up. It doesn't mean a thing when he steps into the ring with the human wrecking machine and bone crushing Jumbo Tsuruta. Jumbo Tsuruta is the most devastating and dominating world champion the AWA has ever seen. Jumbo is going to destroy and annihilate Iceman Parsons at Title Night. Now, speaking of Title Night. All night long I've been hearing about Hulk Hogan coming to the AWA and will be at Title Night. Larry Nelson, you make me sick. You're nothing but a kiss up. Let me tell you and everybody else something. Hulk Hogan will not overshadow Jumbo Tsuruta's performance at Title Night. Hulk Hogan is nothing but a cartoon, a goof and an embarrassment to this sport. Jumbo Tsuruta is the exact opposite and that's why he's the world champion and Hulk Hogan is begging for a job. So, forget about that muscled up beach bum and start showing respect for your AWA world champion Jumbo Tsuruta! Jumbo holds up his world title as the show ends.

Great to see you pop up again. I really enjoyed your shows and what you did with a woman's promotion. It was so entertaining and fun to read, especially your monthly supercards. I hope you're doing well and hope we'll see you around. Thank you for your amazing contributions.

Sheepherders put the Warriors on notice, but after their performance against the Eliminators, I think the Warriors are ready. Jamie got a lot of seasoning in Music City. I think he's tuned up well for the NWA. Brad will continue the Anderson legacy. The Japanese have set a date with the Stud Stable. It's great seeing Super D having a resurgence as US champ. The feud continues with Manny and Slater. This is going to get wild. Worldwide, Wright, Blasters and Prichard get in some good TV exposure. Uncle Ivan gets the best of Boogie Woogie Man tonight. I'm enjoying this feud between the vets.

Bad news for Brown as Warrior earns a spot in the Rumble. Zenk and Muta tear the house down. Muta is looking awesome. Martel looks strong as he retains against HTM. I'm so hoping we get a Martel/Muta IC match at WrestleMania. Von Erichs have arrived! However, their return is spoiled by HTM. BOOOOOOO. With Hogan gone, this is Savage's chance to become the WWF's franchise player. He really showed me something tonight as he shines in his title defense against the always popular Hacksaw. Fantastic job with the Rumble. I know you had a blast putting this together with the ring figures. Really well done with both the visuals and write up. Bossman looked like an absolute monster tonight. I even thought he might win it. Dusty looked impressive as well. In the end, the Warrior wins the Rumble. This is a good call, because Savage vs. Warrior is a money maker, especially if it happens at WrestleMania. 1989 will be an exciting and interesting year for the WWF. You're off to an incredible start.

Anjo came out swinging, but Miyato stayed calm and outwrestled him. Suzuki and Sano get the crowd behind them. This match could've gone either way, but that finishing sequence by Suzuki was beautifully executed. The teacher definitely taught the student a few more lessons. WOW! Nakano KOs Funaki in one hard hitting fight. Great match! Well, I think Rocco and Jones won the crowd over in the British Catch Rules Match. Great contest and I hope we get a rematch. Thesz makes a surprise appearance and delivers a blockbuster announcement. YES! We will see an undisputed champion crowned. Bring it on! Props to Zouev for taking a lot of punishment. But that combo at the end by Yamazaki was incredible. Damn, Aoyagi and Onita draw blood and went at it. Onita earned that one. Sayama got a little dirty to get the win. I liked that Fujiwara didn't give the satisfaction of tapping out LOL. Looks like there's a big feud going on here. It's not everyday when you see wrestlers that can legit go toe to toe with Williams and Albright. The Russians eke out the decision, but man what a match. I can't believe these guys went 30 minutes. REMATCH! Takada beats Maeda!!!! WOW! This is huge. It looked like Maeda had it under control early on, but man Takada came back with a vengeance. Classic match! Backlund vs. Takada is going to be epic! Can't wait.

The New Breed prove they can go as solos. I've always been a fan of Zenk. He could really get over here. Candi Crush is a brilliant name for a finisher. Jacques was big in Canada and booking him on this card probably sold a lot more tickets. Damien gets the win but Walker proves he's a force. Anvil is the man here. Kai and Misty put on an impressive match. This will help get the woman over. Another big name from Canada pops up as Bravo gets a big win over PCO. I know the fans loved this. Well, the heels end the night on a sour note, but I'm sure the fans will be talking about Anvil, Jacques and Bravo. Fun card.

Breaking News HULK HOGAN HAS SIGNED WITH THE AWA!!!!!!! Yes, you read that right. After weeks of intense meetings, lawyers and negotiations, Hulk Hogan and the AWA have reached an agreement. Full details have not been disclosed but the deal was sealed, and everybody left the last meeting smiling and shaking hands. Yes, that's correct, Verne and Hulk smiled and shook hands. The AWA is wasting no time and word is it that Hogan will make a special appearance at Title Night in Milwaukee to cut a promo. This makes sense because Title Night is a special televised broadcast. Speaking of television. As you know the AWA and Sports Channel America have been in negotiations as well. The deal almost died when Kerry Von Erich left the AWA. However, things rapidly changed when SCA got word that Hogan was talking with the AWA. Once the Hogan deal was sealed, SCA and the AWA quickly came to an agreement. After this, Verne had no doubts or regrets about signing Hogan. Also, the AWA will debut on SCA with the Title Night special. February 17th will be a historic night for the AWA. As far as when Hogan will return to the ring, rumors are circulating that it will happen at the Champagne Slam pay per view in April, which will be held in Market Square Arena. It's also been confirmed that Hogan has been booked for AWA shows in Japan, Puerto Rico and Winnipeg later this year. HulkaMania is set to run wild in the AWA and all across the world! Whatcha gonna do!?!?!

You aren't lying, the Southern Boys have hit rock bottom. They might be down now, but I'm not counting them out just yet. Dreamboats vs. Playboy Club, their names alone sell this feud LOL. With Bret as his mentor, this Austin kid has a chance. Yea, I would say Stormfront is ready for a title shot. Mike really is awesome. Bring on more of Hall and Hennig. LA, Sasaki might've been thrown off by Soultaker's look. My guys the FOJ are still in title contention. Tenryu and Hashimoto continue to rack up impressive wins. Stormfront get their shot and might get another one. They're hot on Destruction Crew's tail. Damn, Hall has been putting some beatings on Hennig. Santa Barbara, The New Generation have been a highlight. Big win over the vets. The Jackal is nuts but Eddie can get a little wild himself. Awesome gets some stiffer competition and still comes out on top. Blackman has been on fire. Chono beats Vic tonight, but I want to see him and Ricky go at it again. As always, Pillman ends the night on a high note. Props to Malenko for a gallant effort.

AWA TV @ The Hammond Center 1-26-89 Larry Nelson: Hello everybody and welcome to AWA Major League Wrestling. Tonight, you will see Skandor Akbar's team the British Bombers take on the Bruisers. Tom Brandi versus Gary Young. And Chicky Starr goes one on one with Bob Armstrong. All that and a lot more. But first I would like to bring out the AWA C.O.O. Gerry Morrow who has some big announcements to make. Brenda Britton walks out with Gerry Morrow. Britton: (gives Nelson a dirty look) Are you still here Larry? Time to go. Nelson shakes his head and exits. Britton: Ok Gerry, I know you have some big news regarding the next Title Night, so go right ahead. Morrow: Ahhhhh Brenda, I do indeed. De next Title Night will take place on Saturday February 17th from de Mecca in Milwaukee. Before we get to de lineup, I would like to invite Iceman Parsons out here. We are Family blasts over the speakers as Parsons comes out. Morrow: Ahhhh de Iceman cometh. Mr. Parsons, I know we have a bit of history regarding dat TV title situation. So, I want to make a bit of amends with you. I was so impressed with you at SuperClash. I mean winning de match with a block of ice was splendid. Because of your impressive showing and impressive record, you have in de AWA, I have decided to grant you an AWA world title shot at Title Night. How does dat sound? Parsons: (looks around at the cheering fans) That sounds pretty damn great to me! The Iceman is feeling good and ready to go. I'm going to Title Night and I'll be ready to take the world title. And that's a fact Jack! Parsons heads to the back smiling, dancing and slapping hands with the fans. Britton: Gerry, that was so nice. You just made his day. Ok, I know you have more. Morrow: Yes I do Brenda. Also at Title Night, de Guerreros will defend de world tag team titles against de Fantastics. Paul Orndorff will defend de Mid America title against Buzz Sawyer. De Gunslingers will defend de National tag titles against de Olympians. Larry Cameron will defend de Southern title against Steve Keirn. And next week 2 names will be drawn and will have a match for a TV title shot against Brian Adias. Boos as Larry Zbyszko walks out. Zbyszko: Gerry, with all due respect, I think I should get a rematch with Mr. Spudhead Paul Orndorff at Title Night. Morrow: Ahhhhh Larry, I'm glad you came out. You were a tremendous champion and that's why I've decided that at Title Night, you will wrestle El Canek in a number one contender's match for de world title. You deserve dis Larry. Zbyszko shakes Morrow's hand. Zbyszko: I can live with that. After all, the world title is the only title that's eluded me in my illustrious career. I'll be one step closer after that masked spudhead El Canek takes a trip to Larry Land. Morrow: Ahhhh dat's de spirit Larry. Britton: Once again Gerry, you've outdone yourself. I can't wait for Title Night. Until next time tooooodles. Commercial Break Sgt. Slaughter vs. Ray Glader Slaughter gets massive heat and wins the match with the cobra clutch. Nelson: Sgt. Slaughter, you might be in hot water, because I hear Nikita Koloff is healing well and is back in the gym. Slaughter: Listen up Puke! Nikita Koloff has been dismissed. That dirty commie is such a disgrace that I heard his own country doesn't want him back. And guess what, America doesn't want him either! Commercial Break 'Superstar' Bill Dundee vs. Todd Rooney Dundee is fired up tonight and wins the match with the Bombs Away! Nelson: Superstar, welcome back to the AWA. Dundee: Larry Nelson, I'm so pumped up and excited to be back in the AWA brother. The superstar is on the hunt for some gold, so I'm putting all the champions on notice. OOOOOOOHHHHHH WEEEEEEEEE! Commercial Break Nelson: Fans, you're about to see the debut of a new team in the AWA. Two of Japan's best, Tatsumi Fujinami and George Takano, known as the Dragon Kings. This should be good. The Dragon Kings vs. Vic Dutro and Willie Lopez Fujinami is wearing black trunks with a yellow dragon on the back. Takano is wearing black wrestling pants with yellow dragons wrapped around both legs. The Dragon Kings impress tonight. Takano hits a snap suplex and tags in Fujinami. Fujinami finishes things off with a dragon suplex for the win. Commercial Break Footage is shown from a couple weeks ago when Tom Brandi scored a pin on Gary Young in a 6 man tag match. 'Thrilling' Tom Brandi vs. 'The Fortunate One' Gary Young w/The Vin Man The opening minutes is all Brandi as he pinballs Young all over the place with hip tosses, arm drags, dropkicks and scoop slams. Young stops things with an eye rake and takes control. Young works Brandi over with punches, knee drops, choking and slams. Young goes for a back drop but Brandi kicks him. Young staggers as Brandi clotheslines him down. Brandi slams Young down, then hoists him on the turnbuckles. Brandi hops up and goes for a superplex but Vinnie reaches in and trips Brandi as Young falls on top. Vinnie holds Brandi's foot as the Ref counts 1..2..3! BOOOOOOO Vinnie pulls Young out of the ring and they celebrate like they won the SuperBowl. Commercial Break Nelson: Fans, I've been told we have a match scheduled but I have yet to find out who Neil Jordan's opponent is. Let's go to the ring and... Oh wait just a minute! That's the Missing Link! The Missing Link vs. Neil Jordan Link pounds away on Jordan and easily finishes him off with a diving headbutt from the middle ropes. Nelson tries to get a word with Link, but Link grabs the back of his own head, walks around then heads to the back. Commercial Break 'Mean' Mike Miller vs. Trent Watkins Miller's flying solo now and it looks like he has an even meaner streak. Miller wins the match with a shoulder breaker. After the match, Miller hurls Watkins to the outside. Miller goes out and slams Watkins shoulder first into the steel post. Commercial Break The Bruisers vs. The British Bombers w/Skandor Akbar These teams give the fans a hard hitting, see saw fight. Both teams display power moves, blunt force and solid teamwork. Just when the Bruisers get momentum going, Kokina hits the ring and attacks Busick. Strong charges in but the Bombers double team him. Kokina slams Busick down, but before he can hit a big splash, a big man hits the ring. Kokina and the big man are eye to eye. The Bombers stand by Kokina. The big man is ready to fight all 3 of them. The Bruisers shake the cobwebs and attack the Bombers. The Bruisers and Bombers fight to the outside. Kokina and the big man are ready to fight, but Akbar runs in and backs Kokina up and tells him "now's not the time" The big man keeps challenging Kokina as the fans cheer. Commercial Break 'Mad Dog' Buzz Sawyer vs. Harold Bannister Sawyer mauls his opponent and wins the match with his powerslam! Nelson: Buzz Sawyer, at Title Night you get a shot at Paul Orndorff and the Mid American title. Sawyer: (laughs maniacally) After having so much fun with Carlos (stops laughing) it's time to get serious. Orndorff! You're a dead man and your title is mine! Commercial Break Footage from last week is shown as the High Chiefs viciously attacked the Rose Cousins with their war clubs. The High Chiefs vs. Sam Smith and Gregory Jones The Chiefs destroy their opponents and win the match with a double rib breaker. Nelson: Just why did you attack the Rose Cousins last week? I found it totally uncalled for and frankly very sickening! Lightfoot: Well then we got our message across, didn't we? The High Chiefs wanted to make sure everybody knows we're here. The Rose's were in the wrong place at the wrong time. Before Nelson can get another word in, he's ran off by Sivi Afi swinging his war club. Commercial Break 'Bullet' Bob Armstrong vs. Chicky Starr Starr attacks Armstrong at the bell and works him over. Starr hits a vertical suplex and backs up. Armstrong staggers up as Starr nails him with a running kneelift 1..2..Kick Out. Starr swings Armstrong into the corner and charges in but Armstrong lifts his boots and nails Chicky. Armstrong regroups. Armstrong swings Chicky to the ropes and clotheslines him down. Armstrong swings off the ropes and hits a knee drop. Armstrong picks up Chicky and hits a Jawbreaker 1..2..WHAM! Austin Idol is all over Armstrong with punches! The Ref signals for the DQ. Idol hoists Armstrong up and hits a shin breaker. Idol clamps on the Las Vegas Leglock and wrenches away. Several officials run in but Idol keeps wrenching away as the show ends.

Debeers is a nuclear heat magnet! He better watch himself because both Reed and Simmons have eyes on him. Rogers is pretty smart to put young Jarrett in a no win situation. I have a feeling Arn and Tully will be holding gold soon, especially with the Williams knee injury. Looks like the Grapplers want to walk down Bad Street. However, Funk and Murdoch just might get there first. Fun main event with 2 surprise returns. Tatum's was cool, but man seeing RnR together again was the highlight. Wow, Hogan's not the only big name making headlines. Will WCW get Lawler? If they do, no doubt about it, Memphis is a lock. Piper's Pit is where things happen. Perfect place for Jake to debut. I'm interested to see how long Scott Norton can go as a babyface. But, then again, Mr. Wrestling 2 seems pretty confident in this plan. Enjoyed this report.

Great job hyping up the Rumble. Not only do we get a stacked rumble match, but the undercard looks pretty exciting as well.

I'm with AD, glad to see Backlund coming back. I'm excited about the British Catch Rules Match as well as Williams and Albright coming in. Maeda vs. Takada will be pretty damn awesome. No wonder this card sold out quick.

I loved your SuperBrawl 2 build up. Ole and Harley have some serious words for the Road Warriors. This is great, we've got two grizzled vets going up against 2 muscled up powerhouses. Orton looks more than ready for his shot at Garvin. Big night in Roanoke. You've produced some epic feuds in the NWA and Slater vs. Manny is going to be another one. Boogie Woogie Man and Uncle Ivan now have a hot feud going. Prichard looked great tonight but thanks to the Mastermind, Ron will get his shot at JYD. I'll say this, the Renegade Warriors really earned their US tag title shot. They should give the Sheepherders a fight. Another fun week in the NWA.

AWA News HULK HOGAN is in negotiations with the AWA! Yes, you read it right. People are moving and heads are spinning behind the scenes in the AWA. Hulk Hogan agreed to meet with Verne and did. Hogan flew to Minnesota and met with Verne at Verne's house on the lake. It was said to be very casual and cordial. The two had dinner and talked things out. Not a lot of details were given except that both were smiling, shook hands at the end and set up a follow up meeting. The next meeting was all business at the AWA offices. Hogan brought his lawyers and met with Verne, Greg and other AWA officials. The meeting lasted all day and the next day as well. Early reports are that Hogan will get a majority of his merchandise profits and major promotional advertisement for his upcoming movie No Holds Barred. The next issue was booking commitments and dates. The AWA is asking that Hogan appear on all the 'A' house show markets, which include St. Paul, Milwaukee, Indianapolis and Denver. Along with International shows in Winnipeg, Puerto Rico, Japan and the UK. Also, he must appear on all 4 pay per view events and select TV dates. Hogan also made his future movie commitments known and would need time off for his shooting schedule. It seemed both sides agreed on a majority of the issues but will have one more meeting this week. The deal is close but not sealed. This is monumental for the AWA. They know what Hulk Hogan brings to the table. There's no doubt that with Hogan, they will easily get the Sports America Channel deal, which means national exposure. Greg convinced Verne that even if Hogan got 100% of his merchandise profits, the AWA would make more money and get more global exposure than ever before. Could HulkaMania run wild in the AWA? We'll find out soon enough.