Includes Paul Ellering, Road Warriors Hawk & Animal, Michael Hayes, Sgt. Slaughter, Greg Gagne, Nick Bockwinkel, Ray Stevens, Boris Zhukov, Steve Olsonoski, Buddy Roberts, Terry Gordy, Larry Zbyszko, Baron Von Raschke, Buck "Rock n' Roll" Zumhofe, Billy Robinson, Brad Rheingans, Curt Hennig, Larry Hennig, and Bob Backlund

 

 

Any thoughts on the AWA deciding to remove the "old" guys like Stevens, Robinson and the Axe a month later when they debuted on ESPN?   

I can understand why in one sense, as you want a younger, sexier squad for the kids and ladies to get into. However, the old timers had their fan base too,. Plus it hurt the depth and overall perception of the AWA talent level. I'm pretty sure Sarge prices himself out of the promotion in short order as well, which made the ESPN decision to go with the AWA due to Slaughter all the more of a mistake. 

If nothing else, perhaps writing off the talent with injuries to build up heels and/or building up a loser leaves town type of stips for ESPN could have added interest. I know angles weren't a frequent thing and hind sight is always 20/20.