spaldoni

AWA sends Johnny Mantell to Florida. AWA picks up Bob Armstrong and Jimmy Golden

AWA TV @ The Hammond Center 1-14-87 Show opens with footage of the Ricky Steamboat/Tommy Rich AWA world title bout from the Louisville Gardens. The last scene is Ricky Steamboat being stretchered into an Ambulance. Lance: (Very somber) Hello fans and welcome to another edition of AWA Major League Wrestling. (Deep breath) As you just saw, Tommy Rich is the new AWA world champion. Ricky Steamboat is currently in the hospital recovering from surgery. I understand his neck was severely injured at the hands of Carlos Colon and Curtis Iaukea. Yes, once again Carlos Colon has injured Ricky's neck. However, this time it looks like Ricky will be out of action for quite some time. I'm disgusted just thinking about it. Ricky Steamboat was one of the greatest world champions I've ever had the pleasure of watching. What a damn shame for his reign to end like this. Hank Williams Jr's "All my Rowdy friends are coming over tonight" blasts over the speakers. Thundering boos as Baby Doll comes out smiling. Louder boos as Tommy Rich (wearing a "Dragon Slayer" T-Shirt) struts out, with the world title on his shoulder. Tommy goes over, grabs Lance's hand and forces a handshake. Lance: Come on Tommy, I'm not really in the mood. Rich: Wait! What was that Lance? What? Oh, did you say something about being fired up?!?! Tommy laughs as Baby Doll smiles, nods and applauds. Rich: Come on Lance, lighten up. This is the dawning of a new era. Tommy Rich stormed into the AWA. Sent that loser Lawler out of here. Then a week later, I slayed the Dragon! Now, here I am, holding the AWA world title! You're already looking at 1987's wrestler of the year. Everything just feels right, don't it? Lance: Look Tommy, no doubt about it, you're the new AWA world champ. It's the way you won it that's rubbed me the wrong way. Were you in on this with Colon and Iaukea? Rich: (long pause) Lance, I'm shocked and appalled that you would even ask me that. I don't even know those guys. Hey, seems to me Steamboat made some serious enemies and now he's paying for it. But, oh well, that's not my problem. My problem is you trying to ruin my glorious moment. Just for that, take a step back Lance and give your mic to Baby Doll. Lance hands his mic to Baby Doll and just walks away. Baby Doll: Ladies and Gentlemen, introducing the NEW AWA World Champion, Tommy "Wildfire" Rich! Massive boos as Tommy kisses his world title, smiles and holds it up high. Commercial Break AWA TV Champ Nick Busick vs. Steven James Since defeating Greg Gagne for the TV title, Busick has gotten over with the fans big time. Busick's power moves has James bouncing and bumping all over. Busick wins the match with the Spinebuster Slam! Resnick: New TV champ Nick Busick, come on over. Well, I can't think of a better debut than winning that title. How does it all feel? Busick: Surreal, very, very surreal. My first night here, Gagne issues the open challenge. I figured, why not go for it. I did and here I am holding this TV title. Doesn't get any better my friend. I promise you and all these fans, Nick Busick will be a fighting champ and take on all comers. Commercial Break Ranger Ross and Soldat Ustinov vs. The Teamsters (Richard Charland and Spike Huber) Charland and Huber enter the ring wearing work boots, blue jeans and taped fists. After what happened last week, Ross and Soldat get a nice pop. USA and USSR working together! The bell rings and Ross starts. WHAM! Soldat clotheslines Ross from behind! WHAT! Soldat puts the boots to Ross as the Teamsters look puzzled. Soldat picks up Ross, swings him to the ropes and puts him down with a massive clothesline! Soldat stares at the Teamsters, then exits the ring. Teamsters smile, pick up Ross and hit a double suplex. Huber covers as a bewildered Ref counts 1..2..3! Teamsters exit. Soldat grabs his Russian Flag, gets in the ring and hammers away on Ross. Boos as Soldat waves his flag and heads to ringside. Resnick: I should've known better. What a set up. Why? Soldat: Did you really think I would align myself with a weak American like that poor excuse laying in the ring? I must show the Kremlin that I am worthy. This was only the beginning! More boos as Soldat waves the flag in front of the camera. Commercial Break "The Rocket" Ron Ritchie w/The Vin Man vs. Sam Smith Vinnie leads Ritchie to the ring as "Rocket Man" by Elton John plays. Nice showcase for Ritchie. The end comes when Ritchie slams Smith, hops on the middle ropes and crashes down with a reverse slingshot splash for the win. Commercial Break Highlights are shown of AWA World tag team champs Jumbo Tsuruta and Tatsumi Fujinami defending the titles in Japan. Resnick: Fans, next week the AWA world tag team champions will be in action as they return from a successful tour of Japan. On that note, let's go to the ring as Yoshiaki Yatsu is set for action. "The Japanese Fury" Yoshiaki Yatsu vs. Todd Rooney Yatsu is wearing red pants with yellow flames circling his legs. Yatsu is aggressive as he works over Rooney. He puts Rooney down with a high karate kick, picks him up and hits bridging back suplex for the win! Resnick: The AWA continues to bring in the very best International stars. Fans, as you know our next big closed circuit event will take place on February 18th live from the Mecca in Milwaukee. I'm talking about Big Brawl. I've been informed that the first match signed for that tremendous event will be El Canek taking on Yoshiaki Yatsu. Now listen to this. Next week, right here on TV, you'll see a battle royal. The winner of that battle royal will receive an AWA world title shot at Big Brawl. Whew, the stakes will be high. Commercial Break "Cowboy" Johnny Mantell vs. "Wrangler" Nelson Royal These two recently had a verbal confrontation and have decided to settle just who the real cowboy is. The first few minutes is some pretty fast paced wrestling with neither man gaining a clear advantage. Nelson gets control with a cheap shot during a break. Nelson rakes Mantell's eyes, swings him to the ropes and back drops him. Nelson follows with a vertical suplex and knee drop 1..2..Kick Out. Nelson swings Mantell into the corner and charges in but Mantell runs forward and clotheslines Nelson down. Mantell regroups. Mantell body slams Nelson, swings off the ropes and hits a jumping knee drop 1..2..Kick Out. Mantell swings Nelson into the corner, follows and executes a monkey flip. Nelson slumps up as Mantell hits a neck snap. Mantell picks up Nelson and hits the Russian Leg Sweep. 1..2..(Nelson's foot is under the rope) 3! Mantell jumps up and pumps his fists. The Ref sees Nelson's foot and informs Mantell the match must continue. Mantell is having words with the Ref. Nelson reaches in his tights and puts a pair of brass knuckles on his fist. Mantell goes to pick up Nelson but Nelson nails him with the brass knuckles! Nelson tosses the knuckles out of the ring and covers 1..2..3! Boos as Nelson goes out and gets his cowboy hat. He waves it to the fans and puts it on with pride. Commercial Break Lightning Strike vs. Trent Watkins and Ray Glader Horner atomic drops Glader as Allen puts him down with a missile dropkick for the win. Lightning Express cut a promo and say they're ready for a shot at the National Tag Team Titles. Commercial Break Phil Lefon vs. Phil Apollo These two give the fans a few minutes of seesaw action. All of a sudden, the bell starts ringing several times. Both Phil's and the Ref stop and are totally confused. The camera zooms over and sees an animated Gerry Morrow ringing the bell. Resnick: Gerry Morrow! What are you doing? There's a match going on! You can't do this! Morrow: Oh yes I can! Mr. Lefon, Mr. Apollo, will you please come down and join me? Apollo and Lefon are still confused as they slowly head to ringside. Morrow: Gentlemen! De pleasure is all mine. As you know I have been scouting various wrestlers so that I can form a team. A successful team. A team that will not only win me de gold but one million dollars as well. Today I have my answer. You two will be my team. Just look at you. Athletic! Muscular! Confident! And best of all, both of your names are Phil! Do you see? Dis is perfect. You come with me and I will guide you to de top! De top! There it is! Your team name will be de Top Dollar Phils! It is brilliant! Now come with me and I will buy you de very best ring gear. Are you in? Apollo and Lefon look at each other, take it all in. Shrug their shoulders and shake hands. Morrow laughs and puts his arms around them and escorts them out. Resnick: I have no clue what just happened. Commercial Break The British Bombers vs. Melvin Ontario and Lukas Mann Smith clips Mann behind the knee as Taylor blasts him with a running forearm for the win! Bombers cut a promo on the Olympians and tell them they're in for a lot more pain! Commercial Break The camera zooms in on the glowing pink "Beauty Shop" sign, then pans down to Brenda Britton. Britton: Hi everybody and welcome to the highest rated segment in wrestling, the Beauty Shop. Boy oh boy do I have a bombshell of a show tonight. Well, I know I'm a bombshell but I'm talking about my guests. Big things are happening in the AWA so without further adieu, please welcome out the co promoters of the AWA, Jerry Jarrett and Verne Gagne. Jarrett and Verne walk out in suits and have some serious faces on. Britton: I'm not sure who should start? Verne: I will. Jerry, last week I got a lot off my chest and made some valid points. What happened to Ricky Steamboat just proves everything I said! We had a champion who defended the AWA with pride. A champion everyone could be proud of. And then, on your watch of course, all hell breaks loose and he's no longer champion. Damn, he might not even be able to wrestle again. Enough is enough! Jarrett: Look Verne, you think I'm happy about what went down? That was sickening. Carlos Colon and Curtis Iaukea will be dealt with, I promise. I can only wish Ricky Steamboat a healthy recovery and I'm deeply saddened by what transpired. Verne: I'm sure you are. But like I said, your days as promoter are coming to an end. So, now I'm going to inform the people and the AWA on how we're going to handle this. There's only one way and that's in the ring. Britton: Wow, that sounds intriguing. What's the plan? Verne: At Big Brawl, we have decided to have a 10 man elimination match. Jerry will pick 5 and I will pick 5. We will each have a team that will represent us. At stake will be the AWA. That's right. When my team wins, I will run the AWA and I will run it my way. Jarrett: I'm sorry it had to come to this but what makes you so sure, your team is going to win? Verne: That's easy because my team will be consisted of pure wrestlers. It all comes down to wrestling and pure wrestling will prevail. Boos as Greg Gagne walks out wearing a wrestling sweatsuit. Britton: Greg Gagne! What a surprise. Greg: Hello Brenda. (Looks at Verne) Dad, I know you haven't approved of my recent methods and how I've conducted myself, but I can help you. I can help bring the AWA to its former glory. I ditched Johnny Valiant and I've never been more focused. Please, let me help. Jarrett: I'm glad you're out here Greg. Because you can witness my first pick. The man that beat you for the TV title, Nick Busick! Busick walks out as the fans cheer. Greg gives a sarcastic nod. Jarrett: You wanted this Verne, you got it. Jarrett and Busick walk out. Verne: Greg, you're my son and together we can win this thing. You're in. Greg: You won't regret this Dad. I love you. Verne: I love you to son. The Gagne's hug. Britton: That's the most beautiful moment ever on the Beauty Shop. Brings tears to my eyes. Until next week toooodles. Commercial Break Resnick: Fans, I've been dreading this all week. Coming out now is Curtis Iaukea and Carlos Colon. Nuclear heat! Iaukea comes out swinging his kendo stick while Colon has nothing but evil in his eyes. Garbage is thrown as extra security stands in front of the guard rails. Resnick: I don't even know where to begin. Not only did the two of you cost Ricky Steamboat the AWA world title but you severely injured his neck. The man will be in the hospital for who knows how long! What you did was unforgivable! Iaukea: No! What we did was awaken the inner darkness of Carlos Colon. I took him on a journey and turned him into the man he was always meant to be. Carlos not only took away something Ricky Steamboat loved, his materialistic title but he took Ricky Steamboat's soul. Something that can never be replaced! Carlos! My son! I am proud. Colon: I told you and all these people, Ricky Steamboat would suffer. He has suffered and will continue to suffer each and every waking moment. I've never enjoyed and savored a moment like I did when I put Steamboat through that table! WHAM! Iaukea is mowed over as JIMMY SNUKA comes out and attacks Colon! Snuka tackles Colon and pounds away but Security was already on high alert and swarmed the scene. Several members of Security pull Snuka off. A dazed Iaukea grabs Colon and gets out of there. Snuka is screaming Colon's name as the commercial hits. Commercial Break Resnick: Fans, I believe everything is...whoa Jimmy Snuka is coming back. Snuka: (rage in his eyes) Colon! Iaukea! You made a grave mistake! I'm coming for you! The Superfly is coming for you! Snuka flips over chairs as he heads out. Resnick: My goodness! I've never seen Jimmy Snuka like that. Things have been intense tonight and that's an understatement. Things could get worse as our main event is up next. Commercial Break Blackjack Mulligan/The Spoiler and Crusher Blackwell vs. The Syndicate (Iceman Parsons/Dream Machine and "Pitbull" Kerry Brown w/Roger Kirby The bell rings and of course chaos ensues! Mulligan and Iceman brawl to the outside. Blackwell and Brown trade huge blows in the ring. Dream Machine and Spoiler battle through the ropes and fight around the ring. Kirby tries to jump Mulligan but Mulligan turns around and puts him down with a big right punch. Mulligan turns around and Iceman blasts him over the head with a chair! The Ref has already thrown this one out. The fists keep flying as the commercial hits. Commercial Break Resnick is standing with Spoiler and Blackwell. Mulligan pops on screen with a bloody head, Mulligan: Parsons! That's it! Tomorrow night! Jackson Coliseum. You and me! Loser Leaves Town! You're done Parsons! You hear me! Done!

Love that poster! Old school baby! I really like your roster. Very well balanced. I'm excited about this promotion and with those names, I'm sure you'll be on WGN in no time.

Great way to debut Baron. Paul Jones always has a back up plan. Big win for the Southern Boys but man do they pay the price as Big Daddy Ritter goes back to his heel ways and decimates them. Huge win for Borne as his path of destruction continues. Speaking of huge wins, the Renegade Warriors pull one over on the Koloff's. However, like the Southern Boys, they suffer a beating from an unknown Russian comrade. Damn! The fans got their money's worth with that Tully/Savage 45 minute draw. To Greenville, Another exciting debut as Yamada excites the crowd. Kamala gets the win in the battle of the big boys. Outlaws might get a title shot soon. I know Wright and Fleming put on a wrestling clinic. Rematch! Andersons end the night by retaining over Spartanburg Vice. I will be tuning in to find out what happened between Kabuki and Spivey. Enjoyed these house shows.

You know you're in for a great night when Backlund vs. Rotonda opens the show. Loved that Badd Co. finish. St. Clair gets a nice win over Chavo. St. Clair has made quite a name for himself in Pacific. Young takes Ca. Champ Owen to the limit. I'm really liking this Backlund angle. Sweet Stan and Beautiful Bobby are proving to be a dominant version of the Midnight Express. WOW! Pillman scores a big c.o. victory over Bubba. Defiantly earned himself another TV title shot.

Bleh, I'm good with the trade you had with Gene.

AWA Breaking News Tommy "Wildfire" Rich has defeated Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat for the AWA World Title!!! Saturday, January 8th, 1987, will be a night the fans at the Louisville Gardens would never forget. Ricky Steamboat was originally scheduled to defend the world title against "Pitbull" Kerry Brown. However, during the AWA's last televised show, Brown suffered an injury at the hands of Jerry Blackwell and was unable to compete. Steamboat agreed to face a substitute. Tommy Rich was announced as the sub. You can imagine the heat when Rich (wearing his "I dethroned the King" T-Shirt) along with Baby Doll came down the aisle for the match. Steamboat controlled a majority of the match and looked like he was well on his way to another successful title defense. Then things got crazy. Steamboat went to the top rope. Rich was staggering up and grabbed the Ref for leverage. As Steamboat sailed off the ropes, he nailed Rich with the flying press, but the Ref got sandwiched, took a nasty bump and was knocked out. Steamboat had Rich covered for several seconds, then realized the Ref was out. The fans erupted in thundering boos when CARLOS COLON and CURTIS IAUKEA came to ringside. Iaukea hit the ring and tried to hit Steamboat with his kendo stick, but Steamboat turned around in time and put Iaukea down with a chop. Colon ran in and nailed Steamboat from behind with a clothesline. Colon hurled Steamboat out of the ring. Even Baby Doll backed away. Colon went to the apron. Steamboat staggered up and Colon put him down with a diving clothesline. Iaukea got up, grabbed his kendo stick and went outside. Iaukea blasted Steamboat several times with the kendo stick. Colon picked up Steamboat and rammed him headfirst into the steel post, busting Steamboat open. Nuclear heat from the fans. Iaukea gave Colon instructions. Colon (with nothing but evil in his eyes) picked up Steamboat and hurled him on the Announcer's table. Colon hopped up on the table, grabbed Steamboat and (in one of the most shocking moments in AWA history) executed a piledriver and Steamboat went through the table! An eerie hush went through the crowd. Colon and Iaukea picked up a lifeless Steamboat and rolled him back into the ring. Colon and Iaukea headed back up the aisle as the fans were in complete shock. Baby Doll was screaming at Rich and pointing over at the lifeless Steamboat. Rich slowly rolled over and covered Steamboat. Baby Doll went into the ring and dragged the Ref over. Baby Doll shook the Ref. The Ref groggily counted 1..2..3! Baby Doll jumped up and down celebrating. She ran out and grabbed the world title, then came back in and handed Rich the title. Rich smiled, got on his knees, kissed the title and held it up. The fans were still in a state of shock. Security escorted Rich and Baby Doll out of there. The night couldn't' have ended on a worse note when Medics put a neck brace on Steamboat and stretchered him out and into an ambulance. Tommy Rich is the NEW AWA World Champion!

The Gigolo debuts and Sommers shows interest. I can see these guys working together. Looking forward to St. Valentine's Day Massacre. You know there's going to be a ton of action with all those 6 man matches. In Spartanburg, the Vice has got to go over. I like the hype videos of Duggan and Hansen. That's something missing in today's world. Mega Man is coming! Chief Wahoo shows Faulk what tough is all about. Nice debut match for both the Nasty Boys and Southern Boys. Fun match which I'm sure will lead to more. Good couple of house shows. I'm a big fan of monikers and you've got some good ones. I think a moniker adds a lot to the wrestler's character. British Magician is off to a good TV title reign. Looks like Uncle Ivan's comrade has arrived. Fun 6 man tag with the Indians taking out the Commonwealth. Nice prelude to the upcoming tournament. After an impressive win streak, Gaylord is rewarded with a world title shot. Tully's experience wins this one. .

I love these new Crazy Gang members. What a cast of characters, Dingo Warrior wants nothing to do with Gary Hart. Can't say I blame him. TDT and the Sheepherders has the potential to be one of the most violent feuds in Pacific history. Steel and Barr quickly get the fans behind them. Simmons takes Orton down but it seems Orton, Miller and Hart have a plan to regroup. I couldn't wait for the inevitable Backlund promo and man did he deliver. I just about lost it when he said Gary was like a son to him. Backlund is going to take the Knights to new heights. Gary Hart ruins the Windham/Bret classic. It wont be long before the Harts have enough. To Portland, Whatever it is that Backlund is doing, it's working. Brookside gets the win but young Eddie is learning. Big win for Payne as he defeats the leader of the 5 man Army. Vic gets the quick pin on TNT. After that post match scene, I wonder if TNT will be looking for a partner. Orton rebounds from his Simmons loss. I liked that finish. Kinda reminds me of Orton's "broken arm" days. I'm sure Hector and Regal put on a gem. Gary Hart does it again. The tension between him and the Harts is at an all time high. In his short time as champ, Windham has been a fighting one. Nice win over former champ Rose. Looking forward to the showdown between Rose and his number one fan. Pacific is rock'n with all the new changes.

2 debuting wrestlers get a chance to prove themselves right off the bat. Hosaka gives TV champ Velvet a tough match but once again Velvet retains. I support Velvet's quest for a world title shot. Dawn shows some fire and temper tonight, but Medusa figures her out and retains. Nice touch with Dawn flipping the table. Richter kicks things up a notch as she goes to town on Combs with a chair. I would love to see a gimmick match between these two. WWW gets hotter and hotter by the week.

AWA drops Art Crews and Timothy Flowers

AWA TV @ The Hammond Center 1-7-86 Footage from the Mid South Coliseum's New Year's event is shown. Highlights include British Bombers doing a post match attack on the Olympians. Jimmy Snuka splashing Gama Singh. Billy Jack and Rip Morgan battling to a Double C.O. The Vin Man turning on his Diamond Aces and joining up with Gold Standard. Dream Machine returning and attacking Blackjack Mulligan. Larry and Al Perez retaining their National tag titles against Cabin Fever. The near riot as Baby Doll helped Tommy Rich defeat Jerry Lawler in a non sanctioned loser leaves town match. And Ricky Steamboat defeating Curt Hennig with 1 second left to retain the AWA world title. Lance Russell: Hello everybody and welcome to another exciting edition of AWA Major League Wrestling. We're kicking off 1987 with some sizzle. Tonight, Jerry Blackwell clashes with Kerry Brown in the main event. Also tonight, Ranger Ross takes on Richard Charland. Also in action will be, Scott Putski, the debut of the Warlord, Soldat Ustinov. After what went down on New Year's, the Diamond Aces will go up against The Vin Man's new team, Gold Standard. We'll also be hearing from the AWA world champion Ricky Steamboat. "All my rowdy friends are coming over tonight" by Hank Williams Jr. blasts over the speakers. Thundering boos as Baby Doll comes out with Tommy Rich (bandaged forehead). Tommy is wearing a "I dethroned the King" T-Shirt. Lance rolls his eyes and shakes his head in disgust. Rich: Why the long face Lance? Today is a day of joy! Now look, I know you and Lawler were best friends and I know Lawler was Jerry Jarrett's golden boy. All I wanted was a fair shake here and when Lawler went too far, well, I had to stop his madness. Bottom line, Lawler is gone and 1987 is going to be the year of Wildfire! Lance: I think you're a very delusional individual and what you and this lady did to Lawler was nothing short of disgusting and down right despicable. Which brings me to my next question. Baby Doll, why are you involved with a man like Tommy Rich? I just don't get it. Baby Doll: Lance, you know I only associate myself with winners. Tommy Rich is a winner. Sending that loser Lawler packing is only the beginning. We want Ricky Steamboat and we want the AWA world title. Rich: Hey, I did the AWA a favor by getting rid of that attention hog Lawler. That alone should earn me a world title shot. You hear me Steamboat? You're next boy! More thundering boos as Tommy and Baby Doll leave. Lance: (Disgusted) We'll be right back Commercial Break Soldat Ustinov vs. Trent Watkins Soldat works rough but doesn't break the rules. Soldat wins the match with a clothesline followed by a jumping knee drop. During the match, Gerry Morrow was at ringside, taking notes. Footage from last week is shown as Nick Busick defeats Greg Gagne for the TV title! New TV champ Nick Busick will be in action next week! Commercial Break Gold Standard w/The Vin Man vs. The Diamond Aces Both Crews and Flowers have bandaged heads from the chair shots on New Year's Eve. They pace back and forth as Vin Man leads Gold Standard to the ring. The bell rings and The Diamond Aces run full throttle at Gold Standard. Vinnie gets out of the ring quick. Crews pounds away on Kiniski as Flowers takes it to Kelly. They swing Gold Standard to the ropes and stereo back drop them. Gold Standard staggers up and The Aces stereo clothesline them down. The Ref is finally able to get control. Diamond Aces continue to control. After a few minutes, Vinnie runs around the ring and yells up at Flowers. Flowers hops off the apron and chases Vinnie around the ring. As he turns the corner, Kelly levels Flowers with a clothesline. Kelly presses Flowers up and drops him throat first on the guard railing. Inside the ring, Crews sees this and heads to the outside but Kiniski sends him through the ropes with a flying knee. Kelly grabs him, slams his head on the apron and hurls him back in the ring. Kiniski picks Crews up and slams him throat first on the top rope. Kiniski covers 1..2..3! Kelly gets in the ring. Gold Standard pick up Crews and deliver a double hot shot on the top rope. Gold Standard go to the outside, pick up Flowers and double slam him throat first on the guard railing. Vinnie celebrates with Gold Standard as the fans boo. Commercial Break The Warlord vs. Sam Smith Warlord debuts by destroying his opponent and finishes him off with a running powerslam! Resnick tries to get a word with Warlord but Warlord gives him a mean look and walks away. Commercial Break An advertisement is shown for the AWA's next closed circuit event. BIG BRAWL will take place on February 18th at the Mecca in Milwaukee. Resnick: Fans, with me right now is the Snowman. Snowman, I understand you have a huge announcement concerning the Bruise Brothers. Snowman: I sure do! My main man Porkchop Cash promised that the Bruise Brothers would continue and he's right. I want to introduce the man that's going to help bring gold to the Bruise Brothers in 1987. My new partner, Larry Cameron! Cheers as Cameron comes out and gives Snowman a double fist bump. Cameron: When Porkchop Cash called me and told me what the deal was, I didn't hesitate. The Bruise Brothers are going to make it happen in 87. Just watch. The Bruise Brothers vs. Vic Dutro and Willie Lopez Total domination! The finish sees Snowman atomic drop Dutro as Cameron quickly follows with the Harlem Hammer (Running double axehandle to the back of the head)! Commercial Break Scott "Powerhouse" Putski vs. Neil Jordan Once again, Gerry Morrow is out scouting. Putski looks crisp and wins the match with a powerslam off the ropes! Resnick: Ok, Scott Putski, come on over. Tremendous victory. Boos as The Vin Man and "The Rocket" Ron Ritchie come out. Vin: Rezzy, Rezzy, Rezzy! Why are you wasting time with this punk? The Rocket Man is what's happening in the AWA. Everyone knows that. Take a walk Scotty. Putski: Why don't you make me! More boos as Gold Standard come out. Resnick: Scott, it's ok. Take it easy. No need for trouble. Scott nods and exits. Resnick: Ok. satisfied? Since you rudely interrupted, why don't you tell me and everybody out here, why you ditched the Diamond Aces? It wasn't long ago, when you did the same to this man Kevin Kelly. Just what's going on? Vin: Wow! Turn off the interrogation light, Inspector. You see, Kev is family. Family has fights, disagreements and disputes but in the end we're family. The Diamond Aces simply didn't cut it. Gold Standard and the Rocket Man are what's in style. Gold Standard have earned a world tag team title shot. Gold will be wearing gold. Ha, get it Rezzy? Now, boys, lets give the people what they want. ah 1 and ah 2 and ah 3..4. All singing in unison: We are family. Kevbo, Nicky, Ronnie and Vin-ie! Commercial Break The Dream Machine w/Roger Kirby vs. Arnie Goldstein Dream is back babay and makes short work of Goldstein. Dream hits his jumping elbow drop off the ropes and it's all over. Kirby gets in the ring and raises Dream's arm as the fans boo. Cheers as Blackjack Mulligan comes to ringside and grabs the mic from Resnick. Mulligan: Dream Machine! I already gave you a beating and would love to do it again but I still have unfinished business with that spineless Parsons. However, I found someone who has unfinished business with you! Dream and Kirby are laughing at Mulligan and daring him to get in the ring. Cheers as THE SPOILER sneaks in the ring behind them. Kirby turns around and Spoiler knocks him down. Dream turns around and Spoiler clamps on the claw! The fans are going nuts as Spoiler wrenches away while Dream sinks to his knees. Security hits the ring fast. Commercial Break The Double O's (Steve and Barry O) vs. Todd Rooney and Ray Glader After battling to 3 epic draws, Steve and Barry O have decided to join forces. They come out wearing baseball jerseys with Double O's on the back. Double O's seem to have good chemistry and win the match after Steve hits a vertical suplex on Glader and Barry follows with a knee drop from the top rope! Commercial Break The camera zooms in on the glowing pink "Beauty Shop" sign, then pans down to Brenda Britton. Britton: Hi everybody and welcome to the highest rated segment in all of wrestling, the Beauty Shop. What a show to kick off the new year. My guests are a tag team I've met before and back then we didn't see eye to eye. But after talking with them in the back, I was both amazed and pleased at their new attitude. Please welcome out the self proclaimed greatest tag team in the world, The Rock n Roll RPMS! Boos as the RPMs come out and hug Brenda. They mock the fans with the "I love you" hand signs. Britton: I know you guys have a lot to say and this is the place to do it. Go right ahead. Lane: Thank you Brenda and might I add, you look stunning tonight. The RPMs are not only the greatest rock n roll tag team but the greatest team period! Davis: That's right! I mean look around. We arrive and the Rock n Roll Express bolt. We arrive and the Fabulous Ones break up. You know why? Lane: Pure fear! Britton: You guys are so cool. Now, as I've told all these morons out here, everything happens on my show. I understand you have another announcement? Davis: Yes we do. You see, since we're the only rock n rollers in town, we thought it was only fitting that we have our own personal guitar player that will provide us with our ring entrance music. Lane: Introducing to you, the greatest guitar rocker in the world who will provide us with our own entrance music. Ladies and Gentlemen. JT Southern! JT comes out and jams on his guitar as Brenda and the RPMs nod in approval. Britton: I told you! That's kicking off 1987 with a bang! Until next time...tooooodles! Commercial Break Ranger Ross vs. "The Wrecking Machine" Richard Charland Gino Brito is noticeably missing tonight. Pretty good hard hitting match up. Charland wants to duke it out with Ross and Ross goes toe to toe with him. Just as Ross gets the upper hand, SPIKE HUBER hits the ring and attacks Ross! The Ref signals for the DQ. Now Charland joins in and him and Huber put the boots to Ross. Wait a minute! SOLDAT USTINOV hits the ring. Charland and Huber smile and invite Soldat to get in some shots. The fans go bonkers as Soldat puts Huber and Charland down with a double clothesline! Huber and Charland roll out of the ring and are both dazed and stunned. What just happened? Commercial Break Resnick: I'm standing here with Ranger Ross. Can you explain what just happened? Ross: (breathing heavy) I wish I could. Soldat comes out. Soldat: (palms held up) I know what it is like to be betrayed by partners. I know what you are feeling. There is no reason why we can't work together. What I am saying is, if you need my help, you got it! Soldat walks away to cheers. Resnick: Certainly, a very unexpected situation. I guess we'll see how this develops. Fans' I've just been informed that both Dream Machine and Spoiler have been escorted out of the building. We'll be right back. Commercial Break Resnick: Fans at the Mid South Coliseum witnessed a real wrestling classic on New Year's Eve. Ricky Steamboat retained the AWA world title by defeating Curt Hennig with 1 second left. Please welcome out the AWA world champ Ricky Steamboat. Massive pop as Steamboat comes out wearing slacks, shirt and tie. He smiles and holds up the world title. Steamboat: Ken, that was one of the most grueling and hard fought matches I've ever been involved in. Curt Hennig truly tested me that night. The fans stir as Curt Hennig comes out wearing a suit. Hennig: Ricky, I must admit, that was the toughest wrestling match of my life. I've done a lot of thinking about my recent attitude and I think it's time I ventured to a new scene and get my head straight. Before I go, I want to say, Ricky, I deeply respect you. Hennig puts out his hand. Steamboat smiles, nods and shakes it. The fans cheer as they hug. Commercial Break Crusher Blackwell vs. "Pitbull" Kerry Brown w/Roger Kirby Before the bell even rings, Kirby and Brown attack Blackwell. Blackwell starts to fire back but Iceman Parsons hits the ring and nails Blackwell. Cheers as Blackjack Mulligan hits the ring! Fists are flying! Everybody fights to the outside. Kirby gets knocked down. Parsons and Mulligan fight into the crowd. Brown and Blackwell fight all around the ring. Blackwell gets the upper hand and tosses Brown into the ringside table as the attendants run for cover. Blackwell grabs a chair and blasts Brown's back. Security runs out but Blackwell starts swinging the chair at them. Meanwhile, Parsons and Mulligan continue to battle out in the crowd as the fans scatter. CHAOS! Commercial Break Resnick: My goodness! Things have finally settled down. Things really got out of control. (Catches his breath) Joining me now is Jerry Jarrett. Jerry I understand you have an announcement regarding the National Title that was held by Jerry Lawler. Unfortunately, Jerry had to vacate that title. Jarrett: This is very sad indeed and not the way I wanted to start the new year. However, Jerry agreed to the terms and followed through with them. Verne Gagne walks out. Verne: Jerry, hold on a minute. I'm sorry to have to do this out here and on national TV but I just can't hold my tongue any longer. It's been almost a year since the merger. During that time I tended to my behind the scenes duties and let you run the wrestling operations. I just can't take it anymore. You're turning the AWA into a disgrace. The last match was the straw that broke my back. Under your watch, you've done nothing but cause massive chaos and have put the fans and our employees at risk. I mean look at that National title. A man had to vacate it because of a non sanctioned loser leaves town match. I would've never let that happen. Never! The AWA is my block and it's time I took it back and bring it back to the glory it once was. In other words, you're taking a back seat and I'm running the show! Verne leaves as a puzzled Jarrett and Resnick look on.

NWA heads into 87 with one of the most intriguing storylines...The 4 Horsemen! Can't wait to find out which title Flair will go for. The Koloff's bringing in somebody only means trouble. Paul Jones has made a huge impact and it looks like he's going all out this year. Good update on the comings and goings. I'm really looking forward to seeing what Hansen and Duggan do here. Also looking forward to watching the Nasty Boys develop. I'll be tuning in to watch Crockett's big announcement.

Badd Co. gets mean as their heel run begins. The story behind this turn was very well done. Atlas and TNT will be a solid program. Former foes Steamboat and Adams are united and get a big time upset over the Wild Bulls. OMG's path of destruction continues as he takes Burke down. Gator and Mega Man are tested tonight but retain over the tough Crazy Gang members. Owen retains in an action packed match with Snow. Midnights and Bubba beat the British, but Bubba might have a serious challenger on his hands with St. Clair.

In my opinion, that finish by Rising Sun really got them over quick. RnR are back and lay down the challenge to any team. The tag division is at an all time high. Cox is one lucky guy to have a mentor like Dr. Death. Murdoch and Brody are now added into the Watts/Ladd feud. This is getting good. Vader puts McGhee down but it's not enough for Sullivan. Either Vader is going to become a sadistic monster or he's going to snap on Sullivan. Great story. Steiner pulls out some questionable tactics but Gilbert reels him back in and keeps him focused. Armstrong's TV title reign is off to a good start. Jake is in serious trouble as Adnan tells his army to put everything on hold and put Jake out of commission. Williams and Gordy vs. Demolition is a fan's dream brawl match. That's exactly what happens as all hell breaks loose. One thing's for sure, Jake has serious back up. I would pay top dollar to see that upcoming 8-man tag match. UWF kicks 1987 off with a bang!

Douglas feels the wrath of the Sheepherders. Konnan passes a big test as he gets by Hito. BTW, I really like Hito's role here. Credible heel veteran who helps get the faces over. WOW!!! Did not see this coming! BOB BACKLUND is in Pacific! Him leading Knights Templar is going to be craziness at its best! This is so awesome! Eddie shows promise in his loss to Pillman. Candido always finds a way to keep that title. Well, Oliver couldn't have picked better partners. Another great debut with TDT. I love their look. Perfect for the Pacific Northwest. Oliver gets the big fall on Rose and is now way over with the fans. Classic tag match to end the night. Gary's blunder costs the Hart's the match. I'm sensing a face turn. 1987 is kicking off with some hot storylines.

AWA releases Johnny Valiant AWA picks up Miguel Perez Jr. and Soldat Ustinov

Good follow up from the Supercard. I see tag team gold in Singh and Bennett's future. Apache makes the most of her opportunity against Richter, but I think a pissed off Richter is to much for anyone to handle. We might have an upcoming match between Richter and Carranza. Velvet makes good on her promise and will carry the TV title into 87. WWW ends the year on a good note. Looking forward to the new year.

AWA New Year's Eve @ The Mid South Coliseum Last Battle of the O's- Steve O and Barry O once again wrestled to a 10 minute draw. After the match, both men shook their heads and laughed, then proceeded to shake hands. The Olympians defeated The British Bombers- After a few minutes of hard hitting seesaw action, Rheingans cradled Smith for the 1..2..3. As soon as the bell rang, the Bombers attacked the Olympians and left them laying in the middle of the ring. Billy Jack Haynes and "The Real Thing" Rip Morgan battled to a wild DOUBLE C.O. Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka defeated Gama Singh in a NO DQ Match- Gama took big time advantage of the No DQ stipulation and broke every rule he could but couldn't put Snuka away. After taking quite a beating, Snuka went haywire and went off on Gama with punches, chops, headbutts before slamming him down 3 times on the concrete, rolling him back in the ring and hitting the Superfly Splash for the win! Winners get an AWA World Tag Team Title shot Gold Standard vs. The Diamond Aces w/The Vin Man Lots of bad blood here. Pretty even match with both teams on their A game. During a pier six brawl, the Ref takes a nasty bump and is down. Vin Man grabs a chair and heads into the ring. WHAM! Wait a minute! Vin Man just hit Art Crews over his head with the chair! Flowers runs over and pushes Vin Man down and starts yelling at him. Gold Standard attack Flowers, hoist him up and execute a double gourdbuster! Vin Man drags the Ref over and he counts 1..2..3! The fans are totally confused as Vin Man walks over and hugs Gold Standard. Gold Standard pick up Flowers and hold him as Vin Man picks up the chair and whacks him over the head! Boos as Gold Standard hoist Vin Man on their shoulders and parade around the ring. Winners of the match- Gold Standard Grudge Match- Jerry Blackwell and Kerry Brown are banned from the building Blackjack Mulligan vs. Iceman Parsons w/Roger Kirby This truly is a grudge match. As soon as the bell rings, these guys tear into each other and never let up. After only a few minutes, both men are busted open. Mulligan has things going his way which is Kirby's cue to interfere. He hops on the apron but Mulligan grabs him and hurls him into the ring. Mulligan picks up both Kirby and Parsons and knocks their heads together. Mulligan swings Parsons to the ropes and hits his diving back elbow smash. Mulligan covers but from out of nowhere DREAM MACHINE hits the ring and puts the boots to Mulligan! The Ref signals for the DQ. Dream drops several elbows on Mulligan. Parsons staggers up and joins in. Parsons swings Mulligan to the ropes and puts him down with the Booty Bump. Parsons hurls Mulligan out of the ring. Parsons goes out and slams Mulligan head first into the steel post. Dream Machine helps Kirby up and the Syndicate head out. Winner of the Match by DQ- Blackjack Mulligan Intermission During this time Gerry Morrow came out and gave a New Year's toast and talked about his million dollar bet to put together a championship team. He then toasted to the future of tag team wrestling. AWA National Tag Team Title Bout Larry Zbyszko and Al Perez (C) vs. Cabin Fever Cabin Fever came out with guns blazing as they have the champs bumping all over the place during the opening minutes. The champs turn the tide but it doesn't last long. Manny is all over Larry. Larry is basically out on his feet when Manny hits the flying burrito but the move sends Larry through the ropes and onto the floor. Perez runs in the ring to attack Manny but Manny turns around and back drops him. Larry gets on the apron, Manny punches him and suplexes him back in the ring. Manny tags in Boone. Boone hoists Larry on his shoulders and powerslams him over 1..2..Perez breaks it. Manny runs in and punches Perez back into the corner. While the Ref is guiding Manny to his corner, Boone swings off the ropes but Perez (from the apron) nails Boone's back with a vicious knee. Boone staggers forward as Larry grabs him and hits a swinging neckbreaker 1..2..3! Manny is a second to late. Winners of the Match and still AWA National Tag Team Champs- Larry Z and Al Perez NON SANCTIONED- LOSER LEAVES TOWN MATCH AWA National Champ Jerry "The King" Lawler vs. Tommy "Wildfire" Rich The Ref's only job is to raise the winner's hand. Balls to the Walls action! These two fight up and down the aisle. In and out of the crowd and all around the ring. Lawler gets the upper hand and goes to work on Rich. Lawler grabs Rich by the hair and slams his head several times on the apron. Rich's head is a bloody mess. Lawler hurls Rich into the ring. Lawler spends the next couple minutes punching and stomping on Rich's bloody head. Lawler picks up Rich and hotshots him on the top rope. Lawler hoists Rich up and piledrives him down! The fans go crazy when Lawler goes to the middle ropes and pulls down his strap. Lawler raises his fist to the electric crowd and crashes down with a fist drop! Lawler stands up and shakes his head. Lawler goes to the middle ropes once again, bounces up and down and comes down with another fist drop! There's a commotion as, (I don't believe it!) BABY DOLL gets up on the apron. She's waving her arms at Lawler with a panicked look. Lawler sees her and has a puzzled look. She continues to wave Lawler over while pointing to the back. Lawler walks over with his arms held out. Baby Doll pulls out a can of pepper spray and empties the can in Lawler's face! This even causes attendants at ringside to rub their eyes and get out of there. Lawler's hands are covering his face as he falls to the ground and violently rolls around. Baby Doll gets in the ring and pours a bottle of water on Rich's face to revive him. Rich slowly rises and staggers around. Rich manages a smile as he looks at Baby Doll then down at Lawler. Rich slowly picks up Lawler and gives him and hard and low kick square in the groin! Rich grabs Lawler and piledrives him down. The Ref hesitates but Baby Doll pushes him down. The Ref counts 1..2..3! As you can imagine, the Memphis crowd is in full fledge riot mode! Trash hits the ring as Security rushes to get Rich and Baby Doll out of there. All the way up the aisle, they're pelted with garbage. Medics hit the ring fast to flush Lawler's eyes. With the eye situation along with the groin injury, they have no choice but to call for the stretcher. The boos are deafening as The King is stretchered out of the Mid South Coliseum. Winner of the Match- Tommy Rich There's a few minute intermission to try and calm the crowd down. AWA World Title Bout Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat (C) vs. Curt Hennig After what just happened, it took awhile but Steamboat and Hennig managed to get the crowd engaged. The first 30 minutes is a classic wrestling chess match. Both men bring it. Steamboat looks magnificent with his crisp arm drags and hip tosses. Hennig comes back with some hard shoulder blocks and beautiful dropkicks. Steamboat turns things up by atomic dropping Hennig into the corner and following with a belly to back suplex. Hennig ups his game with a hip toss followed by a running neck snap. Both men continued to battle back and forth. Hennig had a near fall with a jaw breaker. Steamboat almost put things away with an electric chair drop. Yea, the fans were into this one. At the 30-minute mark, they have a furious exchange as Steamboat breaks out his chops while Hennig blasts away with forearms. Hennig stops things quick with a mule kick followed by a gut wrench suplex 1..2..Kick Out. Hennig swings Steamboat to the ropes and puts him down with the Axe Bomb. Hennig follows with a neckbreaker 1..2..Kick Out. Hennig berates the Ref. Hennig swings Steamboat to the ropes and flips him over with a knee to the mid-section. Steamboat rises a bit and Hennig nails him with a running kneelift. Hennig picks up Steamboat and hits a delayed suplex 1..2..Kick Out. Hennig angrily stomps away on Steamboat then hoists him up for the cradle suplex but Steamboat back drops Hennig over the top rope! Both men are reeling. Hennig slowly gets on the apron. Steamboat staggers up. Him and Hennig start another exchange. Steamboat gets the upper hand as the crowd cheers him on. Steamboat then suplexes Hennig back in the ring. Steamboat goes to the top rope, Hennig staggers up as Steamboat nails him with a brain chop. Hennig staggers up as Steamboat puts him down with an enzugiri 1..2..Kick Out. Steamboat swings Hennig into the corner and follows with a running clothesline. Steamboat goes outside on the apron as Hennig twirls around and falls back. Steamboat hits a springboard splash 1..2..Kick Out. Steamboat swings Hennig to the ropes and goes for a back drop but Hennig kicks him. Steamboat staggers and Hennig puts him down with a clothesline. Both men are reeling again. 55 minutes have gone by. Both men stagger up. Hennig grabs Steamboat and hits an inverted atomic drop, grabs him and snake eyes him on the top turnbuckle. Hennig continues to work Steamboat over. 59 minutes have gone by. 1 minute to go! Hennig hoists Steamboat up on the turnbuckles. Hennig hops up and goes for a superplex but Steamboat starts punching away. The fans cheer him on as his punches get stronger and stronger. 30 seconds left! Steamboat finally lands the big one and punches Hennig off the turnbuckles. Steamboat slowly regains his composure and stands on the top rope. 10 seconds left. 9...8...Hennig slowly rises...7..Steamboat hits the flying press 6...5..The Ref counts 1..2..3! Steamboat wins the match with 1 second left!!!!! The entire place rises and cheers! The Ref hands Steamboat the title and raises his arm. Hennig rolls over and sits on his knees. Steamboat holds the title high as the fans continue to cheer. Hennig grabs the ropes and helps himself up. Hennig slowly walks over to Steamboat and stares at him. Steamboat stares back. Hennig offers his hand. Steamboat stares a bit longer then shakes his hand. Hennig pats him on the back and heads out. Steamboat points down at Hennig, looks at the crowd and applauds him. The night ends with Steamboat holding the title high in the middle of the ring. Winner of the Match and still AWA World Champ- Ricky Steamboat

New Year's is one of my favorite times in the game. We always know new faces will show up in new territories. Pacific doesn't disappoint. Gary Hart is looking to make a splash with OMG. Big night for Rose. He deals with the heckler. Has a tough match with Pillman. And then gets swerved from a returning Oliver. Rose vs. Oliver will be a huge draw. Konnan arrives with an impressive debut. The Guerreros bring in Eddie and it immediately pays off. 4 Guerreros, I love it! Also, looking forward to a Badd Co. heel run. Gary Young has seen the light and the Knights Templar are on a crusade. Like the new look. If there's one wrestler I'm looking forward to watch develop, it's the Dingo Warrior. His power style fits in so well here. Simmons carries his momentum into 1987. Good grief! Cannonball Grizzly tore it down in his debut. Surprises keep coming as the Crazy Gang introduces Sabu, Maxx Pain and Lord Humungous! Crazy is defiantly the right name for this group. YES! Cornette is still here and he brings in Beautiful Bobby and Sweet Stan! I loved this version. Obviously British Steel is caught off guard and their short title run comes to an abrupt end. 5 Man Army evens the odds with all the other factions by bringing in US Steel and Art Barr. This night keeps getting better. After all that, we get a classic 20 minute draw between Windham and Hart. I know everybody is excited for a rematch. That show rocked! Pacific is going to have a blockbuster year.

AWA TV @ The Roanne Fieldhouse 12-30-86 Lance Russell: Hello everybody and welcome to a special Thursday edition of AWA Major League Wrestling. Tonight, we come to you from our old stomping grounds, the Roanne Fieldhouse. As you all know, we have a tremendous New Year's Eve card lined up tomorrow night at the Mid South Coliseum. All the wrestlers have enjoyed the last week off for the holidays. The wrestlers slated for tomorrow's card will return then. As for tonight, we're going to showcase a lot of talent the AWA has recently acquired. We'll also be hearing some pre recorded comments from many wrestlers who will be appearing at the Mid South Coliseum. So, let's, ok, wait a minute, here comes Johnny Valiant along with the TV champ Greg Gagne. Gagne comes out dressed in his Great Gatsby attire. Valiant: Hold up there Lancey Baby. How many times do we have to tell you, he's the Great Gagne! Get it right! Lance: Alright, my apologies. What can I do for you? Valiant: As you and all these idiots know, the Great Gagne has been the most dominant TV champion in the history of wrestling. The AWA keeps sending in challenger after challenger and like dominoes, the Great Gagne knocks them down. Now, even though these idiots don't deserve it, the Great Gagne has a very special holiday gift for them and the millions of idiots at home. Tell them Greg. Gagne: My pleasure Johnny. Not many people can say this but when you're a wrestler of my caliber, you have the upmost confidence in your abilities. Which I do! Like johnny said, I've beaten everybody there is to beat here. So, out of the goodness of my heart, tonight I am issuing an open challenge for my TV title. That's right, anybody who wants a shot, come and try it. But remember, we're on national television so be prepared for the most humiliating experience of your life. Gagne and Valiant walk out. Lance: Alright, well, I wasn't expecting that. An open challenge TV title match will take place later tonight. Very interesting indeed. Ok, let's go to the ring. "Dynamite" DJ Peterson vs. Willie Lopez DJ had quite a run in the USWA and now looks to make a splash in the AWA. DJ pinballs Lopez all over the ring with power moves before finishing him off with a diving shoulder block from the top rope! Commercial Break "Wrangler" Nelson Royal vs. Trent Watkins Former multi time Jr. Heavyweight Champ Nelson Royal makes his AWA debut. Royal simply outwrestles his opponent and finishes him off with a bridging back suplex. Resnick: So far, we've seen two outstanding AWA debuts. I think we're in for an exciting 1987. Before we get to 1987, we have one last stop at the Mid South Coliseum. On that card, National Champ Jerry Lawler will face Tommy Rich in an unsanctioned Loser Leaves Town match. Remember, Lawler has not been cleared to wrestle so the National title will not be on the line. Let's hear pre recorded comments from both men. Rich: I know the AWA is talking about being fired up because Wildfire has arrived! To be the man here, you have to take out the King. Lawler! Your undeserving reign here is over. You spent the last year sending people packing but now it's your turn. I've always hated your guts Lawler and now I get to send your sorry ass out for good! Lawler: You're a big man Tommy. You attack me from behind and put me out of commission. However, you didn't think I would want a fight, did you? Trust me, you got a fight coming and it's coming to my backyard. You're going to be just another name I run out of town. You're going down Tommy and you're going to bleed! Commercial Break Lightning Strike vs. William Hillman and Todd Rooney Horner swings Rooney to the ropes and back drops him. Horner tags in Allen, Allen goes to the top rope and nails Rooney with a missile dropkick for the win. Resnick: Lighting Strike ends the year with another win. I'm sure a title shot is in the cards for them at some point. Switching gears, tomorrow night, Blackjack Mulligan will face Iceman Parsons in a grudge match. Jerry Blackwell and Kerry Brown will be banned from the building. Let's hear comments from both Mulligan and Parsons along with Roger Kirby.. Mulligan: Parsons! You've been on my hitlist since SuperClash! New Year's Eve, I finish you! And Roger Kirby, if you want to stick your nose in things, go right ahead because this fist will be waiting! Kirby: The powers that be think the Syndicate is at a disadvantage by banning Kerry Brown from the building. I don't think so! The Syndicate always has a plan and the Syndicate always wins! Parsons: Mulligan! You aint nothing but a cheap dime store wanna be rooty pooh cowboy! On New Year's Eve, the Syndicate are coming to wrap things up. Have Mercy! Commercial Break An ad is shown for the next closed circuit event in February. The AWA presents BIG BRAWL from the Mecca in Milwaukee. Ranger Ross vs. Arnie Goldstein The fans have been coming around on Ross and he's starting to hear the cheers again. Ross looks good tonight and connects with the Combat Kick for the win! Ross grabs his American Flag and waves it to the cheering crowd. Resnick: It's great to see Ranger Ross back on track. Fans' I've just been informed that tomorrow night, Gold Standard will wrestle the Diamond Aces and the winners will receive a world tag team title shot. Speaking of the champs. Jumbo Tsuruta and Tatsumi Fujinami are currently defending the titles in Japan. Best of luck to them. Before we go to a commercial break, take a look at highlights of the history between Billy Jack Haynes and Rip Morgan. Highlights are shown of Morgan turning on Haynes and beating him with his chain. A couple weeks later, Billy clotheslines Morgan with the chain. Those two meet tomorrow night. Commercial Break "Cowboy" Johnny Mantel vs. Sam Smith Mantel hits the Russian Legsweep and float over pin for the win. Resnick: Johnny Mantel, welcome to the AWA. Mantel: Thank you Ken. A while back my good buddy Scott Casey said this is the place I had to be. Well, I'm finally here and couldn't be more excited. There's a commotion as Nelson Royal comes out. Royal: Now hold on boy. You know, you come out here dressed like a real cowboy but Son, it takes a lot more than looking like a cowboy then to actually be one. You're looking at the real deal boy. Just looking at you makes my stomach turn. It's people like you that give real cowboys like me a bad name. Mantel: Look Nelson, I have nothing but the upmost respect for you. I'm not sure what your issue is with me but I can assure you, I'm a legit born cowboy. Royal: You're far from it Son. Looks like I'm going to have to show you what a real cowboy is by teaching you a lesson in the ring. Thinks you got the guts son? Mantel: I'm not your son and if that's what you want, sounds good to me. Royal: You're going to earn those spurs when you wrestle me. Commercial Break "Sir" Norman Smiley vs. Ray Glader Smiley gives off a very smug attitude as he toys with his opponent. Smiley hits a backbreaker then goes to the top rope and crashes down with a flying elbow drop 1..2..Smiley lifts his opponent as the fans boo. Smiley slams Glader down, goes back up to the top rope and crashes down with another elbow drop for the win. Resnick: Norman Smiley with an impressive... Resnick is cut off. Smiley: It is Sir Norman Smiley. Sir is a title of respect and trust me, I have earned it. Commercial Break Highlights are shown of Japanese superstar Yoshiaki Yatsu. "The Japanese Fury" is coming! Resnick: Fans, the AWA has prided itself on bringing in the very best international wrestlers. We will continue that trend in 1987. I understand the AWA is working hard to sign a special international match between Yoshiaki Yatsu and El Canek. I'll keep you posted. Tomorrow night at the Mid South Coliseum, Ricky Steamboat will defend the AWA world title against Curt Hennig. Let's hear from both men. Hennig: All year long, I've proved that I am without a shadow of a doubt the most gifted wrestler in the AWA. Now, finally I get my long overdue shot at the world title. Steamboat! I'm going to make the AWA cool and you're in the way. After I end your reign, I'm going to start the new year with a bang. Don't feel bad Ricky, you had a great run but let's face it, it was great because you haven't faced me. Steamboat: No question about it, you can talk Curt. However, can you back it up? This may sound corny, but I've always done my talking in the ring. Curt, it takes a lot more than talk to win this title and it takes a lot more than talk to defend it night after night. I'm not underestimating you, but I do plan on starting 1987 with this title still around my waist. Commercial Break AWA TV Title Open Challenge Bout The Great Gagne (C) w/Johnny Valiant vs. ??? The fans boo as Gagne slowly takes off his golf cap and scarf. Gagne holds up the title as Valiant applauds. Gagne grabs the mic. Gagne: Well, I have to say, I'm not surprised. I knew nobody wanted to come out and make a fool of themself. Referee, ring that bell and start the count. Johnny and I have an early morning tee time. Gagne throws the mic on the ground and lets the ring announcer pick it up. The Ref shrugs his shoulders and signals for the bell. Gagne laughs and puts his golf cap back on as Valiant straps the title back around Gagne's waist. Resnick: Fans, I'm sorry to say, this might have all been a sick joke. The Ref is starting the count. Wait a minute, there's something going on. OH MY! There's somebody coming out. I don't believe it. That's the man from Powerhouse Hill, Nick Busick! Before Gagne and Valiant can react, Busick hits the ring and double clotheslines both of them down! Gagne's golf cap goes flying. Valiant rolls out of the ring and falls to the ground. Busick picks up Gagne, swings him to the ropes and hits the Spinebuster Slam!!! The fans go bonkers as the Ref counts 1..2..3!!!! The Ref picks up the TV title and hands it to Busick, then raises his arm as the fans are up and cheering! The fans continue to cheer as Busick hops on the middle ropes and raises the TV title high. Winner of the match and NEW AWA TV Champion- Nick Busick New Year's Eve @ The Mid South Coliseum AWA World Title Bout Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat (C) vs. Curt Hennig NON-SANCTIONED- LOSER LEAVES TOWN MATCH! National Champ Jerry "The King" Lawler vs. Tommy "Wildfire" Rich AWA National Tag Team Title Bout Larry Z and Al Perez (C) vs. Cabin Fever Grudge Match - Jerry Blackwell and Kerry Brown are banned from the building Blackjack Mulligan vs. Iceman Parsons w/Roger Kirby NO DQ Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka vs. Gama Singh Winners get a World Tag Team Title shot Gold Standard vs. The Diamond Aces w/The Vin Man Billy Jack Haynes vs. "The Real Thing" Rip Morgan The Olympians vs. The British Bombers The Last Battle of the O's Steve O vs. Barry O

RnR are home! If Sullivan stays in Vader's ear, watch out UWF! Good explanation of the Patriots break up. I'll be watching out for Champion and his new attitude. Hot Stuff arrives and so do Benoit and Steiner. Hot Stuff Inc. will cause waves in 1987. Will Eddie remain a nice guy? Jake vs. Adnan and company will be a great headlining feud to kick off the new year. Awesome promo by Hayes! He sounds like he has a plan and Gordy better be on high alert. Speaking of being on high alert, Watts better be watching his back with Brody coming after him. Johnson and Casey had good UWF runs. Hopefully they carry that momentum to the next territories. Muta and Kendo will defiantly be a team to watch. Are the Jerry Lawler rumors true? Tune in to the Mid South Coliseum on New Year's Eve to find out. Great year Kev! Can't wait for 87!

Giant Slayers get the fans energized with a nice win. Good booking here with the Monsters battle royal. Perfect way for them to get everything settled. Thanks to some help from Bennett, Singh wins it. I do think 1987 will be a big year for Singh. YES! A match between 2 woman champs, who've been on big rolls of late. Medusa gets the hard-fought win but both woman looked strong here. Linda and Kat retain but Star Girls show some shocking aggression and attack after the bell. Very interesting. Main Event time as Richter and Combs go at it again for all the marbles. Moretti gets some sweet revenge and helps Combs win the title! Richter and Moretti are going to be one hot feud. I agree with Bleh. You've done an amazing job with the WWW. It's cool that all these great woman have a place to showcase their talents. I think it's only going to get better. Keep up the great work.

Sounds like a great way to kick off 1987!

"The King of Country" gets things going. The NWA defiantly knows how to book National Anthem singers. Flair wins the battle royal. Hmmmm, I wonder what title he's going for? Very interesting. Jones comes through on his promise as his army ends things with the Posse. Borne gets in his heat by piledriving Slater on the apron. Renegade Warriors unifies the tag titles with a crowd pleasing win over Foley's Commonwealth. Exciting 4 corners match with Wright coming out on top. I think Wright's an outstanding choice as TV champ. Looks like Foley's done with Benoit and we've got a hot feud going between Spivey and Kabuki. LOL, the Andersons manage to walk out with the titles. However, Dillion was lucky to leave alive after suffering the Doomsday Device! OOOOHHHH YEA! Macho Man wins the US title! What a moment! I can totally visualize that crowd's reaction. Post match sees Nikita and Ivan take care of Soldat. Talk about getting your heat back. Race almost wins his 8th world title but a second of hesitation is all Tully needs. Tully is now the undisputed NWA World Champ. I can only wonder what Flair was thinking. This was a great card with some tremendous blow offs. I love the direction the NWA is heading. Keep up the outstanding work!