National Wrestling Alliance

[Autistic Dragon]

                                                                                                      

NWA Live at the Memorial Auditorium in Greenville SC 5/25/87

EL Santo Negro defeats a local talent with a La Magistral cradle.

"Pretty Boy" Doug Somers defeats "Stray Cat" Brodie Chase with a brainbuster.

Good & Plenty (Ray Candy & Sweet Brown Sugar) defeat The Assassins (2&3) with the "Tootsie Roll" on Assassin #3.

Jimmy Golden defeats Joe Lightfoot with a Piledriver.

"Shooting Star" Keiichi Yamada defeats "Tennessee Stud" Robert Fuller with a victory roll.

"Chief" Wahoo McDaniels defeats "Dandy" Don Bass with the Tomahawk chop.

The Horsemen (Tully Blanchard & the Andersons) w/JJ Dillon defeat "The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes, "Raging Bull" Manny Fernandez & "Nature Boy" Ric Flair when Dillon hit Fernandez with his shoe allowing the Andersons to hit a double gordbuster.

[Autistic Dragon]

                                                                                                   

NWA Live at the Raleigh County Armory in Beckley WV 5/28/87

Spartanburg Vice (Jerry Bryant & Lou Winston) defeat two local talents with the "Spartanburg Special"

Angel of Death defeats Dirty Rhodes with a clothesline from the second rope.

Tom "MegaMan" McGee defeats "Iron Fist" Duke Myers with a slingshot legdrop. Mark Fleming was seen observing from the aisle.

"Tennessee Stud" Robert Fuller  defeats Brickhouse Brown with the "Fuller Lock".

"Dirty" Dutch Mantel defeats "Adorable" Adrian Adonis with the "Tennessee Chainsaw"

Non title.

"The Natural" Mark Fleming vs "Shooting Star" Keiichi Yamada ends in a 20 minute time limit draw. The two shake hands after the match with Tom McGee watching from the aisle.

The Renegade Warriors (Chris & Mark Youngblood) defeat Brutha's in Arms (Iceman Parsons & Big Daddy Ritter) w/Slick when Mark Land a top rope sunsetflip on Ritter.

[spaldoni]

Deaton deserves extra pay for doing double duty. 

Del Rey gets himself a bonus from Slick.

Horsemen get big time momentum with a huge 6 man win. 

Love the Savage/Street booking. The match brought the heat. 

Spartanburg Vice gets a nice win. These guys do have that fun cult following vibe to them.

Mega Man tunes up for Fleming by taking on Tough Guy Myers.

Dirty Dutch gets a big win over Adonis. Fun contrast of gimmicks match up. 

Yamada takes TV champ Fleming to the limit. This is a pretty big deal. 

Renegade Warriors beat 2 of the Bruthas in Arms. Can they beat the others for the titles? 

Good loop as the wrestlers get ready for the Spectacular.

[Autistic Dragon]

                                                                                      

From the Boutwell Memorial Auditorium in Birmingham Alabama. The National Wrestling Alliance is proud to present....

THE MEMORIAL DAY SPECTACULAR!

(Before the show properly begins the fans at home see a graphic that reads)

"Tonight's show is dedicated to all the brave Americans who gave their lives in the service to our nation. You may be gone but you will NEVER be forgotten".

(We cut to a series of clips highlighting the different branches of the United States military set to "God bless the U.S.A" by Lee Greenwood that ends with the logo for the event. We then cut to a sweeping shot of the sold out Boutwell Auditorium before transitioning to Caudle & Schiavone at ringside all dressed up for the event)

BC: Wrestling fans welcome to the event the world has been waiting for, the Memorial Day Spectacular brought to you by the National Wrestling Alliance LIVE on the USA Network. I'm Bob Caudle alongside Tony Schiavone and we will be your hosts on what promises to be one of the most exciting nights of professional wrestling in the year 1987.

TS: Indeed it will Bob because not only will all six championships be defended here tonight but fans we received word just before we came on the air that there will a major announcement made before the main event. Not only that, but we can announce that for the main event, anyone without a valid managers license had been barred from ringside! NWA officials believe this is the most prudent method to ensure that the better man comes out on top. But before all that, let's send it to the ring where David Crockett will officially begin tonight's festivities.

(We cut to Crockett in a finely tailored suit standing mid-ring. The ropes are, in descending order, red, white & blue & the mat has the events logo emblazoned on it)

DC: Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls welcome to the Memorial Day Spectacular, brought to you by the National Wrestling Alliance! Now please rise & remove your hats for the national anthem sung by Birmingham's own Emmylou Harris!

(The fans erupt as the anthem finishes... only to switch to boos as "Black Magic" by Slayer roars over the pa system as The Celestial Trinity march down the walkway bridging the entrance to the ring. The mood changes however as "The Ecstasy of Gold" by Ennio Morricone heralds the arrival of the NWA World Six Man Tag Team Champions, The Posse. The two sides have to be held apart by security while Crockett makes the introductions)

NWA World Six Man Tag Team Titles

The Posse (Bill Irwin, Bobby Jaggers & Dutch Mantel)(c) vs The Celestial Trinity (Zodiac, Jason the Terrible & Angel of Death)

A pier-sixer breaks out as soon as the bell rings, much to the delight of the Birmingham crowd. By some miracle, Randy Anderson manages to establish order, though it never lasts long.

The whole match is a wild affair with very little in the way of actual wrestling even in the period where there are just 2 men in the ring. The end comes during one of several instances of all 6 men brawling with each other. During the melee, the Angel of Death has Dutch Mantel in position for his second rope clothesline only for the former army infantrymen to drop down at the last second causing AoD to crash down on the mat. Sensing the opportunity, Mantel waits only until his adversary manages to get back to his feet before pulling him into the "Tennessee Chainsaw" for the 1...2...3! *Huge pop*

(As the champions return up the walkway in triumph, Zodiac was seen arguing with Randy Anderson with the people at home being able to hear him insist that HE was the legal man for his team. The announce team see this & say that the tape may have to be examined as they themselves aren't too sure who was legal or not)

Winners and STILL NWA World Six Man Tag Team Champions: The Posse.

(Big-time cheers as McGee makes his way down to "Shoot to Thrill" by AC/DC. When he gets to the ring, instead of entering through the ropes, McGee climbs to the top rope before performing a moonsault & landing on his feet. He then goes through a series of bodybuilder poses that make the women in the crowd go nuts. As the music shuts down, the lights go for a minute before a single spotlight shines down on the entrance illuminating Mark Fleming. Title strapped proudly around his waste, Fleming marches stoically to the ring, the spotlight on him the entire walk. No music, no fancy gear, just a man coming to defend HIS title. Even the introductions showoff the differences between the combatents, McGee bounces to the second rope & strikes a double bicep pose while the champion simply raises an arm, a single finger pointing to the sky)

"The Natural" Mark Fleming(c) vs Tom "MegaMan" McGee

Announcers mention that the last time these two met in the ring, it ended in a draw. McGee extends a hand at the bell which Fleming accepts. After that sporting start, we get a very enthralling contrast of styles.

McGee's combination by physical strength & raw athleticism gives him a number of methods to escape the variety of submission holds Fleming locks him in. However, it seems that for every hold the challenger is able to power/slip out of, the champion appears to have another...and another... and another.

After several minutes of back and forth action, Fleming changes tactics. He begins targeting his opponents leg in which commentary speculate is an attempt to neutralize McGee's two main assets. Every potential rally is cut off by a renewed attack on the leg. Regardless of how many tortuous submission holds he's placed in however, the challenger refuses to submit & his resilience really wins over the crowd.

Fleming seems to get frustrated and, abandoning his attack on the leg, tries to lock in the Rear Naked Choke only for the challenger to lean back, pressing Fleming to the canvas. He then kicks his legs up and over bringing him up behind the champion, but the landing aggravates the injured leg causing him to stumble backwards into the corner. Fleming, perhaps finally letting his frustration get to him, charges in only to catch both feet to the chest. As Fleming is picking himself off the mat, McGee turns around and jumps -essentially on one leg as commentary point out- first to the second then the top rope before flying off with a moonsault that drives Fleming back down to the canvas. The ref dives into position & 3 seconds later, we have a new TV champion.

Winner and NEW NWA World Television Champion: Tom "MegaMan" McGee!

(The Renegade Warriors make their way to the ring to the sound of "As Long as the Grass Shall Grow" by Johnny Cash. They're usually energetic entrance is a bit more subdued -commentary take the opportunity to remind them that this is the Youngblood's last chance to reclaim the U.S tag straps- though they still put on a good show for the fans. Boos erupt throughout the arena as "Jive Soul Bro" plays over the speaker system. Slick dances down the aisle in a purple business suit & a fedora with peacock feathers in it with Whatley & Conway strut behind him)

NWA United States Tag Team Titles

Brutha's in Arms (Shaska Whatley & Tiger Conway Jr)(c) vs The Renegade Warriors (Chris & Mark Youngblood)

Perhaps remembering him from the days CCW, the Birmingham fans were solidly against Slick, jeering his every move & getting particularly irate when he would interfere on his clients behalf. Despite all the animosity & hoopla at ringside, the Youngbloods were able to use the fast paced offense & seamless teamwork to nearly claim victory on a number of occasions. More than once, Slick interjecting himself was the sole reason his men were able to maintain their grip on their titles. Eventually, Mark Youngblood had Conway in position for the Tomahawk chop only for Conway to not only move out of the way but pull referee Nick Patrick in harm's way causing him to get k.o'd. 

This seemed to be the chance Slick was waiting for as he hurriedly signaled to the back at which point, Iceman Parsons & Big Daddy Ritter emerged from behind the curtain & rushed the ring. A 4-2 beatdown followed culminating in Parsons drilling Chris with a Piledriver & Ritter planting Mark with a powerslam. Conway covers Mark while Ritter revives Patrick who groggily makes the count. BOOOOO!

Winners and STILL NWA United States Tag Team Champions: Brutha's in Arms.

(The Outlaws prowl to ringside to the tune of "Death Rides A Horse" by Ennio Morricone. Bart's cursing out everyone while Bass cracks Miss Betsy at any mouthy fan. The roof of the Boutwell Auditorium nearly comes off as "Iron Man" by Black Sabbath roars to life & the Road Warriors storm the ring with Paul Ellering waves about a copy of the Wall Street Journal.)

NWA World Tag Team Titles.

The Road Warriors (Hawk & Animal)(c) w/"Precious" Paul Ellering vs The Outlaws (Ron Bass & Black Bart)

Look, you don't need me to describe this one. This is just four hosses beating each other black and blue to the delight of the southern crowd. Joel Deaton tries to run down at one point but is intercepted by Ellering & the two brawl to the back. However, the loss of their manager seems to lead to a loss of focus for the champions & there's nothing to stop them from meeting the challengers vitriol with their own. 

Eventually it comes down to all four men brawling in the ring and referee Theodore Long trying to get the two illegal men, Bart & Animal, out of the ring. First time he tries to come between them Bart shoves him to the mat. The second time he tries it's Animal. Give Long credit, he doesn't give up easily. He tries for a third time at which point both men shove him away, finally causing him to call for the bell. Not that the men in the ring seem to notice as they continue fighting for several minutes, finally having to be cleared out by security.

Official result: Double DQ.

(Stan Hansen stomps to the ring as "A Fistful of Dollars" by Ennio Morricone plays in the background. Hansen looks every bit the western villain in his prominent black hat, leather vest & chaps. For added effect, he comes to the ring swinging a bullrope overhead. The fans go nuts as "Pomp & Circumstance" hits and Randy Savage & Ms Elizabeth make their way to the ring. Elizabeth looks stunning in bright red cocktail dress while Savage is decked out in a glittering golden robe with "Macho Man" written across the back. Once again, security has to keep the wrestlers sperated while introductions are made)

NWA United States Title.

"Macho Man" Randy Savage(c) w/Ms Elizabeth vs Stan "The Lariat" Hansen

These two tear into each other as soon as the bell rings. Commentary inform the audience that the referee has been instructed to show leniency due to the building tension between the two men. 

Leniency may be something of an understatement as the two don't just brawl in the ring, but also on the floor, in the aisle & even in the crowd. What time they do spend in the ring Is comprised of stiff strikes & hard slams that by match end, has both men beaten, bruised & bleeding.

The end comes as the two are exchanging blows in the middle of the ring. Hansen staggers Savage with a hard right hand only for the champion to respond with a boot to the gut. He then grabs Hansen by the neck before running to the ropes. He then jumps over the top rope, snapping Hansen's neck across it at the cost of landing on the concrete floor. Using sheer willpower, he manages to get back on the apron before climbing to the top turnbuckle & coming off for an axhandle.

Unfortunately, he took to much time as Hansen catches him coming down with a hammer blow right to the ribs, sending the champion down on the mat. As the champ is pulling himself up, Hansen runs the ropes before putting everything he has left into a devastating Lariat. Hansen slowly crawls into the cover for the 1..2..3! To the shock of the crowd -and the tearful disappointment of Elizabeth- We have a new U.S champion.

Winner and NEW NWA United States Champion: Stan Hansen!

(Before the main event, we see a promo for the next major event for the NWA. Jim Crockett Jr personally announces the return of the "Great American Bash" which will air live July 4th on Pay-Per-View from the Miami Orange Bowl in Miami Florida!)

(The lights go down, "Also Sprach Zarathustra" begins as a light emerges on stage among billowing smoke. From this emerges Ric Flair. Birmingham goes wild as the Nature Boy makes that long walk in a dazzling sequence, silver robe. Almost deafening boos break out as Tully Blanchard arrogantly makes his way to the right as "Money, Money, Money" by ABBA plays. The World champion looks resplendent in a black robe with red trim and the phrase "24 Karat" bedazzled across the back while Dillon cleans up nicely in a finely cut Italian suit)

DC: Ladies and gentlemen, this is your main event of the evening....one fall with a sixty minute time limit for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship! This match has been sanctioned by the Alabama state athletic commission.... when the bell rings the man in charge will be NWA senior official, referee Tommy Young.... introducing first...in the corner to my left, the challenger.... from Charlotte, North Carolina.... weighing 243 lbs..."Nature Boy" Ric Flair!....And his opponent, in the corner to my right... accompanied to the ring by his manager, trainer & advisor James J Dillon.... representing The Horsemen... from San Antonio, Texas... since November 25th, 1986... he has been your... reigning... defending... undisputed NWA Heavyweight Champion of the World.... Tully Blanchard!

This is it. Two of the very best to ever lace up a pair of boots going one-on-one for the most prestigious prize in the industry. Despite the animosity between the two, most of the match is surprisingly clean, almost as if the two want no question that they are the superior athlete.

The result is over 25 minutes of absolute technical mastery as the two exchange hold & counterholds. A great deal of the match actually takes place on the mat as the two combatents try to jockey for position.

Even JJ is surprisingly restrained in his actions at ringside, largely keeping to shouting instructions to his client & insults directed at Flair. However, as the match progresses, fans can see him becoming increasingly concerned about the direction the match is taking. This becomes especially pronounced when Flair manages to not only counter Blanchard's slingshot suplex but connect with one of his own for a close 2 count.

When Blanchard is just barely able to avoid the Figure Four by kicking Flair off into Tommy Young, Dillon decides he can wait no more. Grabbing the World Title, he enters the ring & hands the strap to Tully before lifting Flair to his feet with his arms behind his back.Blanchard takes a moment to line up his shit before charging in, determined to wipe the challenger out once & for all. However, at the very last second, Flair breaks free & moved out of the way causing Blanchard to strike Dillon with the title, knocking his manager through the ropes to the floor. The look of Blanchard's face had to be seen to be believed. As he went to check on his advisor, Flair regrouped and, seeing Young still down shrugged as if to say "what the hell?" before walking up behind Blanchard, dropping to a knee & delivering a uppercut right to the uprights.

He then pulled the champion down in a schoolboy but instead of floating over into the pin, he stood up and grabbed Blanchard's leg which he used to drag his opponent into the center of the ring before applying the Figure Four! Young stirs & goes to ask Tully if he surrenders. Give the champion credit, he resists for a brief period, even making a couple of attempts to drag himself to the ropes. Each time however, Flair drags him back to the center. With his manager down & teammates barred from helping, Blanchard eventually realizes there is only one way out & he begrudgingly submits.

Winner and NEW NWA World Heavyweight Champion: Ric Flair!

[spaldoni]

Spectacular kicks things off with a very classy salute to all those who sacrificed their lives for this country. Well done! 

Harris gets things going with the Anthem. The announcers put this event over and we're set for action.

Posse and Trinity get the fans up with a fast paced and wild match. Posse retains but it looks like Trinity might have a gripe for a rematch.

Loved the contrast of entrances with McGee and Fleming. Very fitting for their styles. After a seesaw match, Mega Man ends The Natural's dominant TV title reign. Impressive! 

It took all 4 Brutha's in Arms to finally put the Renegade Warriors down. I'm so happy with how the Jive Tones have been treated in this game. Gotta love these guys.

A double DQ is exactly what I would expect from the Road Warriors and Outlaws. This is a feud that needs to keep going. 

Savage vs. Hansen...YES! These guys give the fans one hell of a match. It defiantly lived up to the great build. Hansen hits the lariat and we have a new US champ. I love both these guys but I'm really looking forward to a Hansen US title reign. 

Main event time. Tully vs. Flair is a dream match come true. These guys put on an instant classic. JJ and Tully try their usual shenanigans but things backfire big time! Flair gets a most satisfying win with the figure four. Flair is now NWA world champion...WHOOOOO! 

Awesome show! Can't wait for the Great American Bash! 

 

 

[kevinmcfl]

WOW, WOW, WOW.... AWESOME SHOW!

I think you nailed the outcomes on all the big matches.  A double DQ is just what the Outlaws and The Road Warriors needed.  I know Savage is awesome but Hansen is an All-Time great.  I think we have all had Hansen but didn't know what to do with him long term.  You nailed it here.  Give him a belt and let him beat the crap out of people!

Tully was a great champ but the title is back to where it needs to be.  Can't see what is next between Flair and the Horsemen.

[Autistic Dragon]

                                                                                                   

NWA Live at the Citrus Showcase in Winter Haven FL 6/3/87

"Mr Excitement" Johnny Ace defeats a local talent with the "Ace Crusher".

Tough Guy Inc (Don Bass Duke Myers) defeat George South & "Stray Cat" Brodie Chase with a double clothesline on South.

"The Polynesian Prince" Siva Afi defeats Barry O with a jumping headbutt.

"Super Rookie Hiroshi Hase defeats Tiger Conway Jr w/Slick with the "Scorpion Death Lock"

The Outlaws (Ron Bass & Black Bart) defeat The S&S Express (Joe Savoldi &Shaun Simpson) when Bass pinned Savoldi with the "Texas Gordbuster"

"Shooting Star" Keiichi Yamada defeats Zodiac with the "Shooting Star Press"

(The advertised main event was Randy Savage vs Robert Fuller. However it was announced at the beginning of the show that Savage had suffered an injury to his neck at the Memorial Day Spectacular and wouldn't be able to compete tonight. The NWA official assured the audience that a suitable replacement had been found. Come match time, Fuller was strutting around the ring claiming that nobody really wanted to step up to him. He was cut off when "White Lightening" by the Rods came over the pa system. A mountain of a man burst through the curtain, sporting long, unruly black hair & a massive unkempt beard. He wears a fur covered vest with matching boots. As he stomps to the ring, he swings a large chain overhead while letting out a barking "huss" sound. To the delight of the fans, and the horror of Fuller, BRUISER BRODY has arrived in the NWA )

The debuting Bruiser Brody defeats "Tennessee Stud" Robert Fuller with the "King Kong Knee Drop".

[Autistic Dragon]

                                                                                          

NWA Live at the Dorton Arena in Raleigh NC 6/5/87

El Santo Negro defeats Joe Lightfoot with a Missile dropkick. Santo offers a handshake after the match but a dejected Lightfoot walks away.

non title

NWA United States Tag Team Champions Brutha's in Arms (Shaska Whatley & Tiger Conway Jr) w/Slick defeat "Super Rookie" Hiroshi Hase & "Lone Star" Brian Adidas when Slick passed Whatley his cane which he used on Adidas.

Road Warrior Hawk w/"Precious" Paul Ellering defeats Arn Anderson w/JJ Dillon with a clothesline from the top rope.

Road Warrior Animal w/"Precious" Paul Ellering vs Ole Anderson w/JJ Dillon ends in a double DQ when both managers get involved.

NWA United States Title

Stan "The Lariat" Hansen (c) "Shooting Star" Keiichi Yamada with the Lariat.

[LowBlowPodcast]

Memorial Day was memorable without question...  I will first say that Megaman is going to be a real star as NWA TV Champ! The DDQ with the Road Warriors makes sense. Their are such a dominant team... it is hard to beat them in any shape or fashion. Hansen defeats Macho Man... hopefully he's got greener pastures in the future. Then... well here it is...Flair is NWA Champion...Tully has to be hot for a rematch and in his mind I am sure it can't come soon enough.

[spaldoni]

Tough Guy Inc is the type of team a territory wants. They get enough wins to stay strong, while also putting teams over.

I also like how you're using Siva Afi and Hase. Always in the mix.

Outlaws defeat S&S as they gear up for a rematch with the Road Warriors.

Damn! That's how you debut Bruiser Brody! When you picked up Brody, I immediately thought Hansen vs. Brody! Easy money! 

Whatley and Conway are having a great US tag title run. 

Fun booking with Road Warriors and Andersons in solo bouts.

Hansen caps the night off with his lariat! 

 

[Autistic Dragon]

From the Memorial Auditorium in Spartanburg SC.

On Commentary: Bob Caudle & Tony Schiavone

Ring Announcer: David Crockett

Previously recorded Airing on 6/4/87 on the USA Network.

"Black Magic" Norman Smiley vs George South

Commentary hype Smiley as a British wrestling prodigy who's come to America to further refine his craft. They also make a point to mark him as a student of Boris Malenko which he demonstrates by taking South apart with almost surgical precision. After a series of painful holds, victory comes in the form of a crossface chickenwing which commentary inform the audience is called the "Norman Conquest"

The Celestial Trinity (Angel of Death & Jason the Terrible) vs Spartanburg Vice (Jerry Bryant & Lou Winston)

Commentary mention the controversial ending to the Six Man Tag Title match at the "Memorial Day Spectacular" which explains the foul mood the two Trinity representatives are in. They tear into the "hometown" team seemingly more interested in venting their anger then actually winning the match. It culminates in an instant where, as referee Tommy Young is trying to pull Jason off of Winston in the corner, Jason snaps & headbutts Young with the hockey mask! This sends the match completely over the edge with Bryant & AoD coming in for a wild brawl which continues as referee Theodore Long comes down & calls for the bell. It takes security to pull the teams apart & while the fans take some comfort in the announcement that the Vice have won via DQ, the ferocity of the Trinity mean they don't exactly look like winners.

Bruiser Brody vs Barry O

The fans need a pick-me-up after that last segment & it comes in the form of Barry O doing a masterful impression of a pinball as he bounces around the ring. Brody utterly dominates the match before ending things with the "King Kong Knee Drop"

The S&S Express (Joe Savoldi & Shaun Simpson) vs Radiance (Doug Somers & Jimmy Del Ray) w/"Sensational" Sherri Martel

These teams have been a highlight of the house show circuit over the past couple months with no clear advantage being established. Perhaps in an attempt to tip the balance, Radiance have aquired the services of Sherri Martel, a woman familiar to fans of CCW. She wasted no time making her presence known, spending the whole match shouting insults to the Express & fans alike. She also played a critical role in the finish, as when Del Ray as being backed away from Savoldi who's head was hanging outside the ropes, Martel removed one of her heels & drove it straight into Savoldi's face causing him to stumble back in pain where a waiting Del Ray pulled him into a schoolboy. If Martel was brought in to play the difference maker in this feud, she's off to a fine start.

TS: Ladies and gentlemen, my guest at this time is your NEW NWA World Heavyweight Champion, the "Nature Boy" Ric Flair!

(Massive pop as Flair arrives to the ring dressed to the nines and with the ten pounds of gold draped over his shoulder. After a minute of slapping hands & kissing a few lucky ladies on the cheek, he joins Schiavone in the ring)

TS: You know champ, when I interviewed the Horsemen after you were excommunicated from the group, they accused you of not living up to their standards. Well I think it's safe to say you put that argument to rest at the "Memorial Day Spectacular". How does it feel to stand before the people as their new NWA World Heavyweight Champion?

RF: Tony Woohoo Schiavone, it feels almost too good for words. I can remember as though yesterday, winning this title for the first time on September 17th 1981 in Kansas City. I went on to hold on to hold it for over a full year. Now after four long years, the ten pounds of gold is back where she belongs, around the waist of the Naitcha Boy! Woohoo!

(Schiavone goes to follow up but is cut off by JJ Dillon arriving to a chorus of boos)

TS: Now JJ, you weren't scheduled for tonight.

JJ: I'm well aware of that Schiavone. But I couldn't sit backstage & listen to this drivel any longer. Ric Flair wants to come out here & gush about how it's *in a fake crying voice* it's been four whole years since I held the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. *Drops the act & fixes Flair with a look of disgust* Well Ric, why don't you remind everyone how that first title reign ended?

(A gasp passes through the Memorial Auditorium. Schiavone looks shocked at what's being referenced while Flair originally looks angry before adopting a look of.... regret?)

JJ: Oh you don't remember? Allow me to refresh everyone's memory. It ended when, in the final days of 1982, you dropped it on Bob Geigal's desk before you walked out the door because you were stupid enough to believe that Verne Gagne had what it took to run the wrestling business. And what did that get you? A year or so of playing second fiddle to some juiced up cartoon character come to life until you had to come beg Jim Crockett Jr to give you another chance. Now these people may not like Tully Blanchard but nobody can claim he wasn't fighting champion, no one can say he didn't carry that title with pride. The fact that you've been allowed within a hundred miles of that title is a disgrace to this company & to this industry!

(Fans look to Flair expecting anger, indignation, a passionate defense. But instead Flair has a look of penitive acceptance & when the mic returns to him he actually sounds regretful)

RF: You know JJ, I'm not gonna stand here & lie to these people by pretending there isn't some truth to what you're saying. Four years ago, I let a personal dispute with Bob Geigal blow up into what stands without equal as the least professional act I've ever committed, an act I can never take back, an act I may never be able to truly make up for..... but I'm willing to dedicate every second I hold this belt to trying. As long as I can call myself the NWA World Heavyweight champion I will put every once of my being into removing the dishonor I put on it four years ago & I'd be glad to start by offering Tully Blanchard the rematch we ALL know you came out here to ask for.

JJ: *light chuckle* Alright Ric, you got me. I did come out here partially to announce that Tully Blanchard has been granted his well deserved rematch & that rematch will take place on July 4th at the Great American Bash in the Miami Orange Bowl....in an 60 Iron Man match!

NWA World Television Title

Tom "MegaMan" McGee(c) vs Giant Haystacks w)Ms Linda

Since there was no match to determine who would challenge for the TV title this week, it was decided that Giant Haystacks would receive the shot due to having the most eliminations in the battle royal to determine who would receive the shot at the "Memorial Day Spectacular". This meant he was challenging the man who eliminated him to win that very battle royal. Haystacks was clearly looking for payback in addition to the title & really laid into McGee with crushing blows. The champ had to dig deep to withstand the onslaught but was eventually able to use his speed & athleticism to employ a stick & move strategy. Towards the finish a winded Haystacks tries for a splash in the corner only for McGee to duck out of the way at the last moment. As the man mountain staggered backwards, McGee leapt to the top rope & came off with a crossbody that just barely kept the British giant down for 3. 

[Autistic Dragon]

Taped at the Memorial Auditorium before World Championship Wrestling. 

Originally airing 6/5/87

With your host "The Dean of professional wrestling" Gordon Solie!

El Santo Negro defeats "Tough" Tony Falk with a La Magistral cradle.

The Outlaws (Ron Bass & Black Bart) defeat The Gladiator & Rocky King when Bart pinned The Gladiator with the "Texas Trash Compactor"

Tracy Smothers defeats Dusty Wolfe with the "Tennessee Jawbreaker"

Winner challenges for the TV title on next week's WCW.

Joel "Dead Eye" Deaton defeats "Super Rookie" Hiroshi Hase with a handful of tights.

In other news....

Solie informs the audience that the end of the Six Man Tag Title match is under review due to the Celestial Trinity claiming the wrong man was pinned.

In a pre taped promo, Stan Hansen says now that he's the NWA United States Champion people can't afford to duck him anymore. Says he's ready to defend against "anybody man enough to step up to the plate".

The Outlaws cut a pissed off promo accusing the Road Warriors if getting intentionally disqualified out of fear & say they'll keep coming until they get a fair shot at those titles.

[spaldoni]

I'm glad Smiley went to a good home. I think "Black Magic" fits in so well here.

Trinity unleashes all their anger on Spartanburg Vice. Props to Vice for holding their own in one wild brawl. 

Brody is off to a dominant start.

I've enjoyed the S&S vs. Radiance feud. Things turn up a notch with Radiance bringing in Sherri (Nice move) Keep this feud going! 

Great segment with Flair and JJ. Excellent job bringing up the game's history and its roots. Flair vs. Tully in an iron man match...YES! That's going to be money! 

Mega Man solidifies himself as TV champ with a gigantic win over Haystacks. 

Worldwide,

Solid showcases for Negro, Outlaws and Smothers.

Deaton earns a TV title shot by defeating a man who's been on a hot streak, Hase. 

Hansen the new US champ is the one making challenges. Who will step up? 

[kevinmcfl]

Awesome interview with Flair and JJ.  You amaze me with some of the things you recall about this game.  I barely remember who was on my roster.

[Autistic Dragon]

                                                                                                                 

NWA Live at the Memorial Auditorium in Greenville SC 6/8/87

Iceman Parsons wins a 20 man battle royal to challenge for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship in the main event.

Tough Guy Inc (Don Bass & Duke Myers) defeat Spartanburg Vice (Jerry Bryant & Lou Winston) when Bass pins Winston with a Lariat.

"Black Magic" Norman Smiley defeats Billy Two Eagles with the "Norman Conquest"

"The Polynesian Prince" Siva Afi defeats"Pretty Boy" Doug Somers w/"Sensational" Sherri Martel with a jumping headbutt.

The Minnesota Wrecking Crew (Arn & Ole Anderson) w/JJ Dillon defeat Good & Plenty (Ray Candy & Sweet Brown Sugar) with a double gordbuster on SBS.

NWA United States Tag Team Titles

The Southern Boys (Tracy Smothers & Steve Armstrong) defeat Brutha's in Arms (Shaska Whatley & Tiger Conway)(c) Jr w/Slick by DQ when Whatley struck Armstrong with Slick's cane in clear view of the referee.

Tully Blanchard w/JJ Dillon defeats "Raging Bull" Manny Fernandez after ducking under the "Flying Burrito" & rolling up Fernandez with his feet on the ropes.

NWA World Heavyweight Title

"Nature Boy" Ric Flair(c) defeats Iceman Parsons w/Slick with the Figure Four leglock.

[Autistic Dragon]

                                                                                                           

NWA Live at the Albany James H Gray Sr Civic Center 6/10/87

Giant Haystacks w/Ms Linda defeats 3 local talents by piling them on top of each other and splashing the pile.

Rocky King defeats Mitch Snow with a DDT.

"Super Rookie" Hiroshi Hase defeats "Tough" Tony Falk with the "Scorpion Death Lock"

Barry O defeats Joe Lightfoot with a handful of tights.

The Stud Stable (Robert Fuller & Jimmy Golden) defeat The S&S Express (Joe Savoldi & Shaun Simpson) with a Spike Piledriver on Simpson.

NWA World Tag Team Titles

The Road Warriors (Hawk & Animal)(c) w/"Precious" Paul Ellering defeat Brutha's in Arms (Iceman Parsons & Big Daddy Ritter) w/Slick with the "Doomsday Device" on Ritter.

[spaldoni]

Fun seeing Iceman get the battle royal win. 

Tough Guys edge out Spartanburg Vice in a pretty even match up.

Smiley racks up another as does Siva.

Andersons look solid. I would love to see them get Candy up for a double gordbuster LOL.

Slick gets his boys DQed, but the important thing is they walked out with their titles. 

Tully gets the best of the Raging Bull as he gears up for his rematch with Flair.

Speaking of Flair, his title reign is off to a good start. 

Albany,

Haystacks gets the fans warmed up by squashing 3 men.

King, Hase and Barry O get nice mid card wins.

Stud Stable moves up a notch with that win over S&S.

I don't think Slick's cane would've stopped the Road Warriors tonight. 

[Scarlet-Left]

Great main events for these ones! 

Cool gimmick with Giant Haystacks!

Always nice to see Hiroshi Hase get a solid win!

Fun tag team action back-to-back here!

[Autistic Dragon]

From the Cumberland County Memorial Auditorium in Fayetteville NC.

On Commentary: Bob Caudle & Tony Schiavone

Ring announcer: David Crockett

Previously recorded/Airing on 6/11/87 on the USA Network.

EL Santo Negro vs "Black Magic" Norman Smiley

An exciting contrast of styles to start us off this week. Santo's lucha libre offense always does a great job getting the crowd excited while Smiley again impresses with his prodigious technical ability. Curiously Ms Linda is seen observing the match from the aisle, though she makes no attempt to get involved. After an exhilarating back and forth, Smiley takes advantage of a missed Missle dropkick to lock in the "Norman Conquest" for the submission victory. While it's not clear he ever noticed her presence, commentary note that Ms Linda looked quite pleased with the young Englishman's display.

"Super Rookie" Hiroshi Hase vs "Iron Fist" Duke Myers

We go from a prodigy from across the pond to a prodigy from the land of the rising sun. Don Bass accompanies Myers to ringside and makes an attempt to aide his partner but is caught. While this is grounds for disqualification, referee Theodore Long chooses to simply eject Myers from ringside & allows the match to continue. With the playing field even, Hase's superior technique allows him to take control culminating in the win via the "Scorpion Death Lock"

Iceman Parsons w/Slick vs "Lone Star" Brian Adidas

Commentary mention that these two got to know each other very well from various Texas territories. This is demonstrated by repeated instances of each man countering or otherwise avoiding the others signature spots. As he so often manages to do, Slick proves the difference maker. Seeing his client trapped in the dreaded "Oriental Spike" Slick jumps onto the apron & throws his fedora into the ring. When referee Randy Anderson goes to return his hat & get the annoying manager to return to his assigned corner, Parsons takes the opportunity for a desperation mule kick allowing him to break free. Anderson turns around just in time to see Iceman hit a Piledriver for the tainted win.

The Kansas Jayhawks (Bobby Jaggers & Dutch Mantel) vs Fire & Flame

Like the Celestial Trinity the previous week, the Jayhawks clearly have some frustration to work out. While the two masked men got in just enough offense to prevent this from being a total squash, the ending is never in doubt. Jaggers sends Flame into the ropes & catches him coming back for a back elbow then a running elbowdrop for the 1...2...3.

"The Polynesian Prince" Siva Afi vs "Adorable" Adrian Adonis w/"Sensational" Sherri Martel 

Fans of CCW well remember that Martel & Adonis have worked together before to rather entertaining results. Reuniting with his old valet seemed to light a fire in Adonis who layed into his opponent with some hard shots. The popular Polynesian wasn't about to roll over however & returned every clubbing punch or forearm with a blistering chop. The result was something that at times appeared more of a fight then a match, making it something of a surprise when Adonis managed to synch In "Goodnight Irene". Afi refused to give up struggling mightily until he finally just passed out. Nick Patrick called the match & had to pry Adonis off his unconscious opponent, much to the enjoyment of Martel. Staff work to rececitate Afi as commentary hype Adonis as a top contender for any title in the NWA.

NWA World Television Title

Tom "MegaMan" McGee(c) vs Joel "Dead Eye" Deaton

This is Deaton's biggest opportunity yet in the NWA & he fights like it. His strategy seems to be "hit him until he stops moving then win the title" & to his credit he does a good job, raining down heavy blows which have the champ realing at several points. He even gets McGee in position for a bulldog attempt but he's shoved off just as he jumps causing him to crash to the canvas. From there, the champ's combination of power & agility turn the tide solidly in his favor. While the challenger goes down fighting, go down he does, ultimately succumbing to the slingshot legdrop.

[Autistic Dragon]

Taped at the Cumberland County Memorial Auditorium before World Championship Wrestling.

Originally airing on 6/12/87.

With your host "The Dean of professional wrestling" Gordon Solie!

Brickhouse Brown defeats "Tough" Tony Falk with a swinging neckbreacker.

Zodiac defeats "Stray Cat" Brodie Chase with a top rope kneedrop.

"Wild" Bill Irwin defeats Punisher with a bycicle kick.

Winner challenges for the NWA World Television Title next week on WCW.

"Black Bullet" Shaska Whatley w/Slick defeats Steve Armstrong when Slick passed Whatley his title belt & distracted the ref while he hit Armstrong with it.

In other news...

It is announced that after careful review of the footage, the wrong member of the Celestial Trinity was indeed pinned at the "Memorial Day Spectacular". As such, the NWA championship commettie has declared a rematch will take place on the 14th in Charlotte. 

Also announced for Charlotte is a one night 8 man tournament to determine who will challenge for the NWA United States Championship at the Great American Bash.

It is announced that due to the chaotic ending of their match at the "Memorial Day Spectacular", The Road Warriors will defend the NWA World Tag Team Titles against The Outlaws, one more time at the Great American Bash... inside a steel cage!

[LowBlowPodcast]

The NWA...  bringing some good stuff here...  Shaska gets a title show in the future. Big night in charlotte coming up. The Bash is right on the brink here for the NWA. Tag Team Cage match. I also love that 3 on 1 Giant Haystacks matchup. Could we see Andre come down to the NWA and make his claim as the number one big man in the world?

[Scarlet-Left]

Solid win for Hiroshi Hase!

I was rooting for Joel Deaton. Hopefully he gets it next time!

Fun TV main, with Shaska Whatley! Let's see what he can do next week!

That tag team steel cage match should be great!

 

[spaldoni]

I really liked your format this week and enjoyed the match descriptions. 

Smiley gets a tough win over Santo which pleased Miss Linda. Looking forward to watching where this goes. 

Once Bass was ejected, Hase took control and got the win over Duke. 

Slick really earns his money as his guy Iceman defeats The Lone Star. 

Jayhawks are tuned up and ready for the Trinity. 

YES! Adonis and Sherri are reunited! I'm always impressed with how you work in this game's history. Nice job! 

Deaton makes the most of his TV title shot, but the Mega Man pulls it out with another impressive win. 

Worldwide,

I've always wanted to do a B TV show, because it's such a great way to showcase all the wrestlers. 

Once again, thanks to Slick, Shaska not only gets the win but a shot at the TV title. This will be a tough obstacle for Mega Man. 

WOW! 6 Man title rematch, tournament for a US title shot and Outlaws/Road Warriors in a cage! Lots of exciting news in the NWA. 

 

 

[Autistic Dragon]

                                       

NWA Live at the Asheville Civic Center in Asheville NC 6/13/87

Adrian Adonis wins a 20 man battle royal last eliminating Manny Fernandez to challenge for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship in the main event.

Radiance (Doug Somers & Jimmy Del Ray) w/"Sensational" Sherri Martel defeat Spartanburg Vice (Jerry Bryant & Lou Winston) when Martel tripped Winston causing him to stumble into a double flapjack.

Arn Anderson w/JJ Dillon defeats Steve Armstrong with a Spinebuster.

"Shooting Star" Keiichi Yamada defeats "Black Magic" Norman Smiley with the "Shooting Star Press". After the match, a dejected Smiley was approached by Ms Linda & the two left together.

NWA United States Title

Stan "The Lariat" Hansen(c) defeats Brickhouse Brown with the Lariat.

NWA World Tag Team Titles

The Road Warriors (Hawk & Animal) w/ "Precious" Paul Ellering defeat British Justice (Adrain Street & Giant Haystacks) w/Ms Linda when Animal shocks the crowd by hitting a powerslam on the 600 pound Haystacks!

NWA World Heavyweight Title

"Nature Boy" Ric Flair(c) defeats "Adorable" Adrian Adonis w/"Sensational" Sherri Martel by DQ when Sherri runs into the ring while Adonis is in figure four & starts stomping Flair with her heels! She keeps attacking him after the bell, the referee tries to pull her off & kicks a punt to the nuts for his trouble. Martel is an absolute madwoman as she continues to attack Flair, even the champ shoving her off only derails her for a minute before hurling herself back at him. Eventually security comes in to pry her off & they eventually manage to carry her away kicking & screaming the whole time. While all this was happening, Adonis stood in the corner with an expression that just screamed "better him then me" an expression he maintained as he trailed behind security as they removed the struggling Martel.

[Autistic Dragon]

                                           

NWA Live at the "Old" Charlotte Coliseum in Charlotte NC 6/14/87

NWA United States Title #1 contender tournament. Round 1

Big Daddy Ritter w/Slick defeats "Lone Star" Brian Adidas with a powerslam.

"Adorable" Adrian Adonis w/"Sensational" Sherri Martel vs Bruiser Brody end in a double C.O.

Ole Anderson w/JJ Dillon defeats "Shooting Star" Keiichi Yamada when Dillon hit Yamada with his shoe allowing Anderson to hit his pattened kneedrop.

"The American Dream' Dusty Rhodes defeats "Exotic" Adrain Street w/Ms Linda with the "Bionic Elbow"

Non tournament match.

Good & Plenty (Ray Candy Sweet Brown Sugar) defeat Tough Guy Inc (Don Bass & Duke Myers) with the "Tootsie Roll" on Myers.

Tournament semifinals.

Big Daddy Ritter receives a bye to the finals.

"The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes defeats Ole Anderson w/JJ Dillon when Dillon accidentally hits Anderson with his shoe allowing Rhodes to hit the "Bionic Elbow".

NWA World Six Man Tag Team Titles.

The Celestial Trinity (Zodiac, Jason the Terrible & Angel of Death) defeat The Posse (Bill Irwin, Bobby Jaggers & Dutch Mantel)(c) when Jason & AoD take advantage of the referee being distracted during a pier-sixer to use Jason's axe handle to double clothesline Jaggers. NEW CHAMPIONS!!!

Tournament final.

"The American Dream" Dusty Rhodes defeats Big Daddy Ritter w/Slick.

After a wild brawl Rhodes inadvertently takes out the ref with a shoulderblock meant for Ritter. Taking advantage of this, Slick scales the ropes with his cane while Ritter holds Rhodes in place. Slick leaps but Rhodes moves at the last second causing the cane to crack over Ritter's head! Rhodes nails Slick with the "Bionic Elbow" before dumping him to the floor. Another "Bionic Elbow" to a dazed Ritter as the ref recovers & 3 seconds later, Dusty Rhodes is heading to the Bash! As Rhodes celebrates with the crowd, a hurting Slick hobbles into the ring & it looks like he's going to check on Ritter. The manager starts getting aggressive however, seemingly blaming his client for the earlier miscommunication. He even starts jabbing his finger into Ritter's chest. Ritter's clearly in no mood & actually shoves Slick backwards earning a bit of a cheer from the audience. Perhaps the headache from the earlier elbow is affecting Slick's judgement but he fired up & slaps Ritter! Slick is once again berating his client when Ritter silences him with a look of pure rage. Slick seems to realize his mistake & turns to leave the ring but Ritter grabs him by the collar before sending him into the ropes & drilling him with a powerslam! Ritter takes a minute to take in the cheers of the crowd, almost as if he doesn't expect to see them again before exiting the ring, leaving his now former manager in a writhing heap.