     |
  |
|
Text By Simon RawlsWhat if...Ric Flair helped Dusty Rhodes after the cage match?
Part II
February-April 1986
The effects of the recent supercard are immediately seen on World Championship Wrestling. It is announced that the Midnight Express will be getting their World Tag Team Title shot in one week, giving the fans something to look forward to. Additionally, The Minnesota Wrecking Crew is stripped of the National Tag Team Title due to their victory of the more prestigious World Tag Team Championship. Another announcement is made about the Crockett Cup, promising more details, including teams, rankings and ticket information as the weeks progress. The Andersons make easy work of Bill Tabb and Rocky King, Ole forcing Tabb to submit to an armbar after a good deal of punishment to both he and King. Afterwards they and J.J. Dillon give an interview. "Now" Dillon begins "We can all see that the proof is in the pudding. And here are THE World Tag Team Champions, the Anderson Brothers. We said it, we did it. And we're going to do it again and again. Watch out." "Ole," David Crockett asks, "What about the Midnight Express?" "First off," Ole begins, "I will say that Jim Cornette is a great manager. The SECOND best in this business (this causes Arn and J.J. to both grin). And the Midnight Express are a great team." But they will be meeting the most superior fighting force in wrestling- The Minnesota Wrecking Crew. And boys, we will not be pulling any punches." "Like J.J. and 'Rock' just said, we said we were the best and we went and proved it. Rock 'n' Roll, you had one helluva run. Hats off to you. But there are new sheriffs in town." Arn says as he points to himself, his manager and his brother. "And you are looking at them. And Ric Flair, Tully Blanchard told me to tell you, soon he'll be adding the Word Title to our collection. Let's go boys." At this the three left.
On World Wide, Tully Blanchard wrestled a tight match with veteran, Nelson Royal. It was largely scientific and clean, in the end Tully wins with his slingshot suplex. Afterwards, he and Baby Doll are interviewed. "I told all of you that I am tougher than Ronnie Garvin "Blanchard says while kissing both his fists. "And I proved it to you. And now, Ric Flair, I am calling you out. I've held the Television Title, I've held the U.S. Title and I am going to be the next World Heavyweight Champion. 'Nature Boy', your days are numbered." "Ric" Baby Doll says. "You made the mistake of your life kissing me. Now Tully is going to take what you value most. And get close to me again" and now giggling, she says "I may just have you neutered."
The next World Championship Wrestling comes and the Midnight Express v. Minnesota Wrecking Crew has everyone abuzz. Additionally, Ric Flair has a match against Black Bart. Flair, wrestling earlier, beats Bart with no trouble and then interviews with Tony and David. "Champ" David Crockett says, "We've all heard Tully's challenge. What do you say?" "Well David Crockett, first off Baby Doll. Sweety, you know after getting a taste of Space Mountain that you want some more. Neuter, Ric Flair?" Flair chuckling says "I don't think so! And Tully, you want a piece of me? You want the three times World Champion? 'Super Brat' I don't think you're ready for Ric Flair. But brother, anytime, you want to put your money where your mouth is, Ric Flair is not a hard man to find. Wooooo!" There you have it" Crockett says. "Ric Flair accepts the challenge!"
In the main event, the Midnight Express and the Minnesota Wrecking Crew come down to the ring, both ready for action. What follows is tough, tactical fight. All four men consummate ring tacticians. The Andersons are able to isolate Bobby Eaton and work him over. But Eaton's skill enables him to dodge a double clothesline and connect with a dropkick to both opponents. He tags in Dennis Condrey who takes it to Arn and Ole. Things are looking good for the Midnights when in rush the Road Warriors to take revenge for their fluke loss. Teddy Long immediately calls for the disqualification as the Andersons head for higher ground, leaving their opponents with an angry LOD. Dennis Condrey is the victim of a vicious Animal powerslam. But he fares better than "Beautiful" Bobby who gets to go up for the Doomsday Device.
After the commercial break, the Road Warriors and Paul Ellering are interviewed. "Midnight Express, you should have known not to mess with us!" Hawk begins. "Cornette, you just saw how we handle those who take what is ours. And Andersons, watch out because you're next! Animal." "That's right, Hawk. Those two momma's boys and their wimp manager thought they could pull one over on us. Well, think again! You don't mess with the Legion of Doom!"
The atmosphere in the NWA thickens. On Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling, new World Television Champion, Krusher Khrushchev gets a shot at the World Title. "I am going to take what has been denied the Russian people for far too long." he says before the match. Krusher takes it to Ric Flair, but the three-time World Champion will not be had. He foils his Soviet challenger by moving out of the way of a turnbuckle charge and rolling him up (and grabbing a handful of tights for good measure). The night does not end well for the "Nature Boy" though, as Tully Blanchard storms the ring and attacks him. Flair initially does well against Tully, but Arn and Ole join in and before long, Flair is beaten down hard. Ron Garvin, Sam Houston, Jimmy Valiant and Manny Fernandez eventually come to Flair's rescue, but by then the champion is already a mess.
Due to the incidents on Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling, it is announced on the beginning of World Championship Wrestling after the footage is shown, that America's Team and Ric Flair have demanded Tully and the Andersons in a six man bunkhouse match for tonight. The heels said they would accept only if the title was on the line, which the proud good guys promptly agreed to. "A main event anywhere in the world will be seen right here tonight" Tony Schiavone exclaims. "It may very well be the most important night in the history of our sport!" Additionally the first participants, all who will receive first round byes, are announced for the Crockett Cup: The number 1 seed is the World Tag Team Champions, the Minnesota Wrecking Crew. Number 2 is The Midnight Express. The Road Warriors are number 3. America's Team is ranked 4. Additionally, it is announced that Ric Flair will defend the NWA World Title at the event against Tully Blanchard.
Before the main event, Flair, Dusty and Magnum are interviewed. Flair comes carrying something under a black cover. "Champ, how are you after your match with Krusher and the attack after?" David Crockett asks Flair. "Tully Blanchard, you've thrown down the gauntlet. You want a piece of me. Well brother, ya got it! And when I get my hands on you later tonight, with those two hooligans buddies of yours, just watch out. You three may not make it to the Crockett Cup. And you are NEVER getting my belt ... THIS BELT! Flair then removes the black cover, revealing a gigantic, new, golden, World Title belt with Ric Flair's name engraved on it. Crockett and Schiavone's jaws drop. "That is huge!" exclaims Tony Schiavone. "Brother, it is. Brother it is." says Flair. "Champ, that is a beautiful belt." says Magnum. "One day I may want a piece of that." he says jokingly. "Hey now." Flair responds with a laugh. "I would like to say" Dusty Rhodes begins, "that I have not forgotten about you Krusher Khrushchev. And the World's Television Title. But, right now, I have other things on my mind. Andersons, Tully, I am going to show you why Dusty, Magnum and Slick Ric are the elite in this sport. And Baby Doll, J.J., just get in my way and see what happens. We'll get funky like a monkey all night long!"
The six man main event is a predictable all out brawl. The challengers come out first, dressed in street clothes, Tully having his fists taped. Then charge the champions, ready for blood. And it doesn't take them long to get their wish. The six go at it without mercy using every possible object they find in their path. Dusty Rhodes uses a bullrope with cowbell intact to bust open "Double A". Magnum and Ole exchange rights and lefts until both are black and blue ... and then still go at it. From the opening bell Flair concentrates on Tully, who works on his cardio by running away. Eventually, all men go at it with an opponent. Flair gets Ole in the figure four leg-lock, only to have Arn drop the timekeeper's bell on his head. Arn pins Flair, but before he can get three, Magnum breaks the count with a good, swift kick to Arn's cranium. Dusty throws Tully over the top rope and is readying to nail Arn with a clothesline, but Baby Doll hits him across the back with a steel chair when he hits the ropes. This incites Magnum to chase her out the ringside area. Arn is able to hit Dusty with a spinebuster and a still stunned Flair can't stop the count and thus new champions are crowned.
Things heat up in Jim Crockett Promotions even more. In a house show in Charlotte, Dusty beats Krusher Khrushchev in a bloody non-title bullrope match. On the same show, the Andersons retain their World Tag Team Titles against Ric Flair and Magnum when J.J. hits Flair with his steel toed shoe, enabling Ole to get a tainted pin.
More teams are announced for the Crockett Cup on World Championship Wrestling, all who will also get first round byes. The Koloffs are announced as fifth. The Japanese team of Giant Baba and Tiger Mask is ranked sixth. The Rock 'n' Roll Express is seventh. Getting the last bye is the Canadian team of Rick Martel and Dino Bravo with the eighth seed. The Russians are interviewed on the show and they brag about how they are going to win the tournament. "Americans. Foolish as can be." Krusher Khrushchev starts out. "Do you really think we are going to let this chance, in this international tournament, slip by our fingers? Of course not. We are going to win the tournament, split the money three ways, and bring the trophy back to mother Russia." "Comrade Krusher is totally right" Ivan Koloff chimes in. "We Russians have for too long been held back and denied our rightful place in world recognition. After tournament, no more!" At this point, Jim Crockett, Jr. makes his way down to the interview area. "Gentlemen," Jim Crockett says, "I think you are a little confused." "About what?" Ivan confusingly asks. "Well, normally the NWA allows any trio of Ivan and Nikita Koloff and Krusher Khrushchev to compete and defend titles. However, being the attrition factor involved in a one day tournament, the board of directors has met, and has determined that for this tournament, that will NOT be the case. You entered this tournament as Ivan and Nikita Koloff, and that is the team." Pointing at the Koloffs he says "You two will not be able to alternate with Krusher Khrushchev!" The crowd comes alive as the Russians freak out. "What do you mean, Crockett?" Krusher responds. "This is some slimy capitalist trick isn't it?" "No tricks, Krusher. Only fair play." The Russians are very angry as the interview ends.
The week involved even more teams announced for the Crockett Cup. The Mid-South Tag Team Champions, "Dr. Death" Steve Williams and Ted Dibiase are given a birth. So are fellow Mid-South tag teams, The Sheepherders and The Fantastics.
Ole and Arn Anderson fended off a close attempt by the Rock 'n' Roll Express to regain the World Tag Team Titles on World Championship Wrestling. "We're going to walk out of New Orleans with both these belts and that trophy." says a wheezing Ole after the match. "And with the million dollars" adds Arn.
This week's World Championship Wrestling has yet more teams announced for the tournament: The B and B (Boogie Woogie and Bull) Connection consisting of "The Boogie Woogie Man" Jimmy Valiant and "The Raging Bull" Manny Fernandez, Paul Jones team of The Barbarian and Baron Von Raschke, and Chavo and Hector Guerrero all get bids as well.
In the main event, Khrusher Khrushchev defends his Television Title against "Chief" Wahoo McDaniel. The big Russian and the rugged Indian have a great match, with no love lost. Wahoo gains an early advantage and hits Krusher with a barrage of chops. Krusher is able to turn the tide by throwing Wahoo over the top rope, narrowly avoiding a disqualification by convincing Randy Anderson that momentum took McDaniel over. After roughing Wahoo up outside, he throws him back in and gets many near fall pins. Krusher goes for the sickle, but Wahoo is able to dodge it and stun the Russian with a kick. They trade jabs and Wahoo hits an atomic drop and pushes him head first into the turnbuckle, throws Krusher into the ropes, nails him with a hard chop to the head and gets the three count, winning the TV title.
At the start of World Championship Wrestling, Tony Schiavone announces that Ron Garvin and Wahoo McDaniel are now a team in the Crockett Cup as are Sam Houston and veteran Nelson Royal.
The Russians are interviewed later on and seem much happier. All three laughing, has Tony Schiavone ask "What is so funny?" "Well, Tony Schiavone, you American capitalists thought you had the advantage by not letting comrade Krusher team with me and nephew Nikita. Well, we have found something even better. Welcome Mr. Paul Jones." Ivan says. The hated manager comes out with one of his men, Teijo Khan. "Thank you very much, Ivan" he says as he shakes all three Russians hands. "You see, I did some wheeling and dealing and now I can officially say that Krusher Khrushchev and Teijo Khan WILL be a team in the Jim Crockett Cup. With three teams between us, we CAN'T lose!" All five heels start laughing profusely. "And know what else?" Krusher more states than asks. "Teijo and I are facing Wahoo McDaniel, who stole my Television Title last week and that no good punk, Ron Garvin, in the first round. And boys, we're gonna tear you limb from limb." The interview concludes with all five continuing their laughing.
As the weeks go by and the Crockett Cup approaches, the tension heats up. Matches are getting rougher and bloodier. It is also announced that "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan will defend the Mid-South North American Title against former champion Dick Slater.
Three weeks before the Cup, on World Wide, The Andersons and Tully Blanchard defend the World Six Man Championship against the Russians. No strangers and certainly not on friendly terms, the six go at it with nonstop fury. The Russians, eager to prove they are the dominant force in wrestling, with their American opponents wanting to do the same, leads to a very brutal match. Predictably the match comes apart and all six wind up in the ring together with Tully and Nikita as the legal men. As Tommy Young tries to restore order and has his back turned to the legal men, Baby Doll tosses a pair of brass knuckles to Tully ... but Nikita intercepts it and uses it on Blanchard then Ole for good measure. Arn is kept at bay by Krusher and Ivan while Nikita wins back the title for the Communist trio.
On World Championship Wrestling, video is shown of that match and what happened after the show went off the air. Tully, with the help of Baby Doll, and Ole, with J.J. and Arn assisting him, finally both get up. Tully angrily pushes Baby Doll away. "You did it again! You did it again!" he yells at her. "She says "I'm sorry". Arn points outside the ring and tells her to "Hit the road!" She begs Tully for help, but he merely tells her to get out. Ole grabs her by the arm and drags her to the ropes. She then leaves the ring crying.
Later J.J. Dillon and his three men are interviewed about the match and their subsequent treatment of Baby Doll. "David Crockett" Ole began. "Understand this. This is a man's world. Always has been, always will be. And this is a man's sport. Always has been, always will be. Now we knew Baby Doll messed up back at Starrcade and we were reluctant to work in a business environment with a woman. But, Tully convinced us it was an isolated incident and that she was good for the team. Then she costed us the Six Man Titles. But Ric Flair's chicanery had us give her the benefit of the doubt. Yet, she once more proved herself a liability, costing us our Six Man trophy yet again. And being the man that he is, Tully did the right thing." "That's right. I told that woman time and time again not to mess up. And what did she do? She messed up! I can't have a stupid bimbo messing things up when I take on Ric Flair. I mean I am destined to win the World Title. And I can't let anybody, man or woman, interfere with that. Besides I got the best brains in the business right here." Tully says as he points to J.J. "Three strikes, and you're out!" Dillon now chimes in "Thank you and well said Tully Blanchard. We are going to win the World Title in New Orleans. Make no mistake about it. And with the World Title and World Tag Team Titles, we will prove ourselves to be the elite force in professional wrestling. Bank on it!"
A mere week before the big day and the bubble is about to burst. The main event of World Championship Wrestling is a U.S. Title defense, Magnum T.A. vs. Nikita Koloff. Interviewed before the match with Dusty Rhodes, he and "The American Dream" are confident on their tournament chances. "You see, there are many teams in this tournament," Dusty says. "But we are America's Team." We ain't dirty Russians like the Koloffs, or Canadians, Mexicans or Japanese. We are Americans. Proud Americans, too. Unlike those no good Andersons or that rotten Midnight Express with that fruity manager of theirs." "That's right, Dusty." Magnum says. "And tonight, I am going to give all these people and all those watching at home a taste of what's in store for our opponents in New Orleans. Nikita, watch out!
The main event has the Russian powerhouse against the proud American champion. Nikita takes it to Magnum, but the champ is relentless as well. After the first few minutes, Nikita gets the advantage and pounds on Magnum, but nonetheless just can't put the champion away. Nikita makes the mistake of climbing the top rope. Magnum kicks the rope, causing Nikita to fall on his midsection. The champion then slams him off the ropes. He then nails a belly to belly suplex and goes for the pin. However, Ivan and Krusher storm the ring before Earl Hebner can finish the count, causing a disqualification. Dusty Rhodes, Ric Flair, Wahoo McDaniel and Ron Garvin all run to Magnum's aid and start to clean house. Paul Jones' Army then storm the ring. Shortly after Arn, Tully and Ole join the fray. Then come The Road Warriors, then the Midnight Express, then the Rock 'n' Roll Express. It is an all out brawl. "MY GOD!' Tony Schiavone exclaimed. This is crazy. "Well see all our fans in New Orleans next Saturday for what will undoubtedly be the biggest night in the history of our sport!"
April 19, 1986: The Jim Crockett Sr. Memorial Cup Tag Team Tournament
The day of the big tournament has finally arrived. 24 of the best tag teams from all over the world have arrived in the Louisiana Superdome, all vying for $1 million and the bragging rights to call themselves the best of the best, the elite of the elite.
1st Round 2nd Round 3rd-5th Rounds
Houston/Royal_________Winner____________ Follow Brackets Accordingly
Battens Andersons
McDaniel/R. Garvin____Winner___________
Krusher/Khan Martel/Bravo
Guerreros_____________Winner_____________
Sheepherders America's Team
Fantastics_____________Winner_____________
Fabulous Ones Koloffs
Barbarian/Baron_______ Winner_____________
B and B Midnight Express
Peterson/B.W.Sawyer____Winner____________
Bart/J.Garvin Rock 'n' Roll Express
Stallion/Ware__________Winner____________
B.Sawyer/Steiner Road Warriors
Taylor/Williams________Winner____________
Dundee/Landel Baba/Tiger Mask
1st Round
Sam Houston and Nelson Royal beat Brad and Bart Batten fairly easily. Wahoo McDaniel and Ron Garvin vs. Krusher Khrushchev and Teijo Khan is a predictably rough fought match, no love loss between these two teams of hard-hitters. After being distracted by Paul Jones, Wahoo McDaniel falls victim to a vicious Teijo Khan karate chop, which gets Kahn the 3 count and advances his team to the next round. The Sheepherders vs. Chavo and Hector Guerrero is a great match between two veteran teams. The hated New Zealanders pull out all the stops. Their valet, Lady Maxine jumps on the apron, causing referee Tommy Gilbert to admonish her. While this is going on, Sheepheder flag bearer, Jack Victory tosses the New Zealand flag to Butch Miller, who nails Chavo in the neck with it. Miller tosses out the flag and while Luke Williams tangles with Hector, the Sheepherders get the victory. The Fantastics and Fabulous Ones put on a highly skilled, high-flying match, albeit one where fisticuffs do sometimes fly. After being Irish whipped into the ropes, Bobby Fulton holds on, avoiding a Steve Keirn dropkick. After a dropkick and bodyslam of his own, he tags in Tommy Rogers who then with Fulton's assistance hits the rocket launcher (assisted top rope splash). Fulton makes sure Stan Lane doesn't intervene and the Fantastics advance to round two. Shaska Whatley comes down to ringside with Paul Jones and his team of Baron Von Raschke and The Barbarian, holding Jimmy Valiant's ponytail that he recently cut and bragging about how he soon planned on "finishing the job." The Boogie-Woogie and Bull Connection then comes to ringside to massive cheers. This match is fought hard from the opening bell. After Manny Fernandez hits a stunned Baron with his flying burrito (flying forearm smash), he and Valiant advance. Black Bart and Jimmy Garvin have no trouble with Scott Peterson and Brett Wayne Sawyer. The Italian Stallion and Koko B. Ware fall prey to "Mad Dog" Buzz Sawyer and his protˇgˇ, Ric Steiner, Sawyer finishing off the Stallion with a well executed powerslam. To close out round one, Terry Taylor (substituting for an injured Ted Dibiase) and "Dr. Death" get past "Superstar" Bill Dundee and "The Nature Boy" Buddy Landel, when after a failed blind tag from Landel to Dundee has the two smashing heads, "The Nature Boy" is set up for Taylor's five arm (flying forearm smash) and the pinfall.
2nd Round
The Anderson Brothers are too skilled and too experienced as a team to have much trouble beating Sam Houston and Nelson Royal. Arn takes Houston out with his gourd buster (inverted suplex slam) and the World Champs move on.
At the time for the second match, Krusher and Khan come out with Paul Jones, but Rick Martel comes out dressed in a suit. It is announced that Dino Bravo is ill and cannot compete so the Canadians have to forfeit. Krusher, Khan and Jones all start laughing hysterically. Krusher takes the microphone and says while still laughing like a hyena "We beat the Americans, but you Canadians don't even bother to show up! You French Canadians are cowards- just like all your Coonass [1] cousins, here in Louisiana!" the slur causing massive boos throughout the entire Superdome.
The Sheepherders try to get the bum's rush on America's Team, but Dusty and Magnum see them coming and get the best of them. The match is roughly fought, but after multiple bionic elbows and a belly to belly to Luke Williams, the beloved Americans shut up the felonious foreigners and advance to the quarter-finals.
Shocking the entire Superdome crowd, hated Mid-South heel wrestler/manager, "Hot Stuff" Eddie Gilbert shows up with the Koloffs. Gilbert has recently been snubbed, his Bladerunner tag team not getting a tournament bid. "Hot Stuff" gets on the microphone and proudly proclaims "I told all you people I was going to be here tonight. And now, I have a one days manager permit to manage Ivan and Nikita." The still stunned crowd is booing profusely. And guess what, their going to take the trophy ... back to Russia! Ha ha!" Fulton and Rogers, no strangers to Eddie Gilbert and both proud Americans, are determined to not allow the turncoat to make good on his threats. Though smaller, The Fantastics use all of their skill and explosive moves to push Ivan and Nikita to the limit. However, the Russian duo proves to be too formidable, and while Eddie Gilbert distracts referee Tommy Gilbert (his own father), Ivan knees an incoming Bobby Fulton and Nikita almost takes his head off with the Russian sickle, giving the Koloffs the win. Gilbert jumps up and down in jubilancy, then straight into Nikita's arms like the two just got married.
Next Manny Fernandez and Jimmy Valiant meet the Midnight Express. "B & B" gets the early advantage, using the crowd's enthusiasm for momentum and to break the Midnights' Concentration. But, Dennis Condrey is able to switch the momentum by dodging a Manny Fernandez elbow charge to the turnbuckle. He brings "The Bull" to his corner and he and Eaton work him over. Valiant tries to help out, but Tommy Young forces him back to his corner, allowing for even more of a beat down. Looking like victory is in their grasps, the Midnight Express gets cocky and lollygags a little. This allows the "Bull" to slug Bobby Eaton then connect with a bodyslam. Within seconds both men are struggling for their corners. Eaton tags in Dennis Condrey first ... but Fernandez makes it to the "Boogie Woogie Man" who promptly cleans house. Taking out first Condrey, then Eaton. Shortly after, "The Raging Bull" is back in the ring. They ram the Midnights together and the crowd can sense victory. Fernanadez is sent back to his corner as "Boogie" starts grooving. He picks up Condrey by the hair, only to have his eyes raked. Boogie starts swinging and after a second, picks his opponent up for a bodyslam. But, he loses his balance and Condrey falls on him. Jim Cornette reaches in the ring and holds Valiant's feet and much to the crowd's chagrin, Tommy Young counts to three.
The Rock 'n' Roll Express, still fresh, don't have much trouble beating the patchwork team of "Gorgeous" Jimmy Garvin and Black Bart. A double dropkick to Bart's mush around the five minute mark and a quick follow-up pin is all it takes for a rock 'n' roll victory.
Buzz Saywer and Rick Steiner vs. The Road Warriors is a predictably hard-hitting, roughhouse match. Sawyer's unorthodox style, normally very intimidating, doesn't phase Hawk and Animal like it would most opponents. Using their natural power, ability and top notch tag skills, LOD incapacitates Sawyer and is able to get Ric Steiner up for the Doomsday Device and thus advance to the quarter-finals.
The Japanese team of "Giant" Baba and Tiger Mask proves to be very formidable against Steve Williams and Terry Taylor. A little too formidable. It is a clean well fought match, the crowd favoring the better known Americans more, but still respecting the Japanese legends. A big boot by Baba to Taylor, followed by a Russian legsweep spells defeat for him and Doc.
3rd Round
The fans have absolutely no one to cheer for the Krusher/Khan v. Andersons match. No love lost, the two heel teams waste no time with semantics and go at each other from the opening bell. Paul Jones and J.J. Dillon exchange choice words as the match begins. The Andersons get an early advantage, and in typical Anderson fashion, work on Teijo Khan's arm. He is put immense pain with an Ole armbar but will not submit. Khan is finally able to lift himself up, but Ole grabs his Mohawk and drags him back down. At this Teddy Long demands a break and after a four count, Ole reluctantly complies. Khan is about to tag Krusher, but Ole slugs the Russian, bringing him in. Teddy Long stops his progress. This allows Arn to sneak without a tag. Turning around, Long questions Arn, who insists a tag was made. Long asks the crowd, who give a mixed reaction. The issue is rendered moot when Arn tags Ole back in. After a quick double suplex, Ole hits Khan with a piledriver and the Andersons make it to the semis.
The Koloffs come back down to ringside with Eddie Gilbert who is jubilant over the Russians earlier victory. But Dusty and Magnum have come to fight and charge the ring instantly throwing fists. Gilbert runs for cover as Carl Fergie rings the bell. Under threat of a double disqualification, order is restored. These two perennial powers go back and forth, neither able to gain a long term definitive advantage. It looks like the match is going to reach the thirty minute time limit, when with two minutes left, Eddie Gilbert jumps on the ring apron to distract the referee. This prompts Ivan Koloff who is on the outside to throw his chain to Nikita. But from the back, "Cowboy" Bill Watts storms to the ring and drags Gilbert, his arch-rival, off the apron slugging "Hot Stuff" This allows Carl Fergie to turn around and see Nikita with the chain, which instantly leads to an America's Team disqualification win.
Jim Cornette enters the ring and takes the microphone and says "From seashore to seashore, from coast to coast, they are team with the absolute most, 'Beautiful' Bobby and 'Loverboy' Dennis, The Midnight Express." His two charges come to the ring, ready to meet their longtime rivals. The Rock 'n' Roll Express makes their way to the ring and the two teams pull no punches and give not an inch. The Midnights gain an early advantage, but Ricky and Robert soon change that. The momentum swings again in the Midnights direction and they are able to work on Robert Gibson, but can't put the determined youngster away. Reversing a Dennis Condrey neckbreaker, Gibson is able to tag in the wily Ricky Morton who promptly kicks Midnight butt. Bobby Eaton runs in and gets a dropkick right to his mush. Ricky then rams Condrey's and Eaton's heads together and things look good for rock 'n' roll. He tags in Robert and they set up for their patented double dropkick. Jim Cornette jumps on the apron and tries to distract his hated opponents- and is greeted with a double dropkick that sends him all the way to the guardrail where he hits his head hard. Tommy Young sends Morton back to his corner while Robert Gibson climbs the top rope to finish Dennis Condrey off. However, he fails to notice Bobby Eaton has snuck out the ring and grabbed his fallen manager's loaded racket. He climbs the apron and nails a diving Gibson with it. Dennis Condrey, ever ring savvy, follows this up with a pinfall.
The last match of the third round is a classic. The Road Warriors and the Japanese put on an intense match, both teams giving it their all and taking everything their opponents dish out at them and then some. Having Animal stunned, Tiger Mask attempts a top rope dive. But the mighty Animal recovers in time and catches his smaller opponent with a powerslam and gets the three for the LOD. The two rival teams shake hands in a show of mutual respect, earning cheers throughout the Superdome.
North American Title Match
The hated but very ring knowledgeable Dick Slater is foaming at the mouth to regain what he considers his North American Title, which not he but "Mad Dog" Buzz Sawyer lost. But he will be meeting Mid-South's most popular star, "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan. But the proud "Hacksaw" does not want to give up his title so easily. The two go at it and pull all the stops, but in the end, Duggan' spear (three point stance followed into a running football tackle) settles the score and to the crowd's delight, "Hacksaw" retains his gold with a clean pin.
4th Round
The rival Minnesota Wrecking Crew and America's Team match has the intensity of two brigades of soldiers about to go into battle. There is nothing but absolute hatred between these two teams. Arn and Magnum start out and it doesn't take long for fists to fly. Pee Wee Anderson repeatedly warns both men to use an open hand. An Anderson attempt at a double team fails. A little after that Ole and Dusty go at it, which when given the opportunity, Dusty uses Ole's head as a repeated landing base for his elbow. Arn storms the ring and "Big Dust" nails "Double A" with a few elbows for good measure, causing the brothers to retreat and confer with J.J. while Dusty and Magnum give each other a big double high five. A few moments later and Ole reenters the ring, slowing down the pace of the match. A low blow allows the Andersons to gain the upper hand. But Dusty will not be kept down for long and is able to tag in Magnum. The popular superstar nails Arn with a backdrop then a clothesline. Things look good for America's Team, when Magnum sets Arn up for a back body drop. But the younger Anderson sees it coming and nails Magnum with a DDT. He gets a VERY close two, but he and Ole now have a very decisive advantage. They keep going to Magnum's head with fists, kicks and elbows but can't put him away. Arn hits a second DDT, and would've gotten three, except for the fact Magnum has a foot underneath the rope. All looks bleak for the babyfaces when Ole attempts a running clothesline and Magnum dodges it and hits his belly to belly suplex. Both men are stunned, but Ole makes it to Arn. Before Magnum can make it to Dusty, Arn cuts him off, but Magnum hits a low blow, nearly getting disqualified, and crawls to his corner. "The Dream" enters with a vengeance, hitting both Arn and then an unsuspecting Ole on the ring apron with everything he has. J.J. Dillon hands Ole something which the "Rock" puts in his tights. Dusty bodyslams Arn and is about to put him in a figure four, when Dillon makes the distraction by jumping on the apron. Pee Wee runs to him, demanding he get down. Dusty releases Arn and goes over and grabs Dillon. The much smaller Pee Wee Anderson gets in between the two, demanding a release. Dusty concedes but when he turns around Ole, who has entered the ring, hits "The Dream" with appears to be brass knuckles. He smacks a still weary Magnum on the apron as well, knocking him down. Arn then covers Dusty which prompts J.J. to abandon the apron for the floor. Pee Wee then refocuses on the ring, and seeing a pin attempt makes the count. Three seconds later, the Andersons are in the finals.
The Midnight Express come to the ring without Jim Cornette. The Road Warriors enter with Paul Ellering. The Midnights work well without their manager as they are both seasoned ring veterans. They use every technical move and dirty trick they know to down their larger opponents, and wind up getting a couple of close counts. But in the end, the Road Warriors are too strong and powerful. An Animal powerslam on Bobby Eaton, followed by a Hawk top rope shoulder block, puts The Legion of Doom in the finals with the Andersons.
World Title Match
Tully comes down to ringside first with J.J., looking quite confident. He really believes that tonight is his night. Then Sprach Zarathustra hits and outcomes Ric Flair. "The Nature Boy" receives a huge ovation and stops halfway down the aisle, with a huge grin on his face. Then to the shock of everyone, out comes Baby Doll decked in a beautiful evening gown. She and Flair lock elbows and they make their way down to ringside. Tully and J.J. Dillon are beside themselves. Harsh words are exchanged as Baby Doll and the champ share a kiss. Eventually J.J. and Baby Doll are cleared from the ring and the match starts. The match is a classic encounter. Both men extremely technically sound, give what may be the fight of their lives. At one point hoping for a clean break on the ropes, Tully lets his guard down, only to be slapped by Flair. This enrages Blanchard, who charges Flair. The champ hits a drop toe hold and puts his challenger in a headlock. They rise up and Flair throws Blanchard into the turnbuckle. He then hits a montage of chops, reddening Tully's torso. They go back and forth with wristlocks, bodyslams and everything else. Tully throws Flair into the turnbuckle, but Flair is able to flip over it, run to the opposing turnbuckle, and connect with a flying body press on Blanchard for a close two. Flair picks Blanchard up and tries for a running roll-up combination, but Tully pushes Ric away and he knocks heads with referee Earl Hebner. Tully attempt his sling-shot suplex, but Flair blocks it and hits a suplex of his own. J.J. Dillon pops up on the apron and gets Flair's attention, but Baby Doll jumps up on it behind him and pushes him off. Tully runs to his former girlfriend and grabs her. Flair charges Tully... only to have him release Baby Doll. Tully promptly ducks and Baby Doll throws fire into Ric Flair's face! Blinded and in pain, the champ his face screaming. Tully puts him in a small package and a just recovered Earl Hebner counts to three. Baby Doll and J.J. enter the ring as Tully is awarded the World Title. He takes a few kicks at Flair, who is then attended to by EMTs. The new World's Champion, his manager and his once again valet then exit the ring all holding one and other in celebration.
Final Round
Arn and Ole come down to ringside, jubilant over recent activities. J.J. joins them, still with a huge grin on his face. But Black Sabbath's "Iron Man" hits and they realize they now have to meet the Road Warriors. And the LOD are totally focused. Paul Ellering has them totally in the zone for this match against the reigning World Tag Team Champions. Arn and Hawk start out the action. It is a great finish to the night. The Road Warriors clear the ring early, causing the Andersons to hit the floor to regroup, J.J. signaling for a timeout. Not in the mood for a timeout, Hawk and Animal exit the ring on opposite sides and surround the brothers. This turns in to a fight on the floor. Tommy Young issues a count, but realizing this match requires a winner, stops at 9 and beckons the two teams to send a legal man in the ring. Finally Animal and Arn enter the ring and restart the match. Animal clobbers Arn with a clothesline, beats his chest and tells Ole he's next. "The Rock" enters the ring, only to be admonished. This allows Animal to bring Arn to his corner and Hawk gives him several hard punches while Animal holds him, giving the Andersons a dose of their own medicine. Hawk is then tagged in and he promptly presses Arn over his head several times. Arn looks very shocked and flustered while Hawk smiles and sticks his tongue out. He then picks up Arn only to have his eyes raked. Realizing the danger he is in, Arn quickly crawls to Ole and tags in his big brother. Smaller than the LOD, but tough and rugged, Ole hits Hawk with a hard right hand. He then goes to work on his arm. The Andersons use this to their advantage for several minutes. Realizing a submission victory over the Road Warriors would boost their reputation to unheard of levels, they continue to focus on Hawk's arm. During a double team, they attempt a double suplex. But Hawk reverses it and suplexes both Andersons! He struggles to his corner. Arn gets his right foot, but Hawk still manages to tag in Animal as the crowd comes alive! The Andersons try for a double clothesline, but Animal dodges it and clotheslines both of them. He slams Ole then Arn, then knocks their heads together. Sensing danger, J.J. jumps on the apron. But "Precious" Paul doesn't allow this to last long. He immediately joins him on the apron and knocks his socks off. And unlike Baby Doll, Ellering is NOT pulling a scam on his men. Hawk now reenters the ring and takes it to Arn. Ole, the legal man with Animal, starts swinging with all he has. Animal stuns him with a kick. Then takes him to the turnbuckle and rams his head into it ten times as the crowd counts in absolute delight. By now Hawk has Arn nice and stunned. They ram the two brothers together and both Andersons drop. Arn is tossed out of the ring courtesy of Hawk and that only means one thing; doomsday. Animal puts Ole on his shoulders, Hawk delivers the clothesline off the top rope and three seconds later, the Road Warriors have won the first Crockett Cup! The crowd roars with absolute delight as the two Warriors celebrate with their manager. Shortly afterwards, they are awarded a $1 million check by Jim Crockett Sr.'s widow, Elizabeth, Jim Jr. and "Cowboy" Bill Watts. The Road Warriors then thank the fans for their support and promise that the World Tag Team Titles will be around their waists REAL soon.
April-June 1986
The effects of the Crockett Cup are immediately seen. On the first episode of World Championship Wrestling after the Cup, Tony Schiavone and David Crockett give an update on the status of former World Champion, Ric Flair. "It appears that Ric Flair luckily escaped any permanent damage to his eyes. He WILL make a full recovery and return to the ring. When however, is a totally different question. The burn Ric Flair suffered was severe. And it will take time to heal." David Crockett says. Later on, Tully Blanchard, Ole and Arn, along with J.J. and Baby Doll come out for an interview. "Look at this, look at this." Blanchard says very smoothly, proudly holding the World Title belt, now with a Tully Blanchard nameplate on it. "You didn't think I could do it did you? And look at her." he says while pointing at Baby Doll. My perfect 10. Flair did you really think you could have her? No way, pal. She's all mine. Now and forever." Tully then gives her a kiss on the lips. "Ric Flair" Baby Doll says. "How could you think I would let you get your dirty hands on me? When I've got this man. Sure we had a little spat, but so what? He's MY man and don't you or your stupid fans forget it." she says to a cry of boos." "Well Tully, did win the World Title" Tony Schiavone says. "But the Andersons didn't win the Crockett Cup. The Road Warriors did." "Don't even go there, Tony Schiavone!" J.J. Dillon says. "Arn and Ole were too happy for Tully to concentrate on the match. It was a fluke. Nothing more. We'll be taking care of Hawk and Animal real soon." "Indeed you will." says an emerging Jim Crockett. "Because based on their win in New Orleans, the Road Warriors are now the number one contenders for the Anderson Bros. World Tag Team Titles. And right here next week, they will be defending those belts against the Road Warriors!" The crowd roars as J.J. and his men gasp in anger. "How dare you do that Jim Crockett?" an enraged Ole Anderson asks. "They don't deserve a shot at our belts!" "The NWA championship committee feels differently." Crockett responds. "Be ready next week." Jim Crockett then leaves the fuming heels as the interview concludes.
The next week of World Championship Wrestling comes with much anticipation. Fans everywhere want to see LOD knock the Andersons' socks off. Arn and Ole approach the ring first with J.J., calm and collected. Then the Warriors music hits and the Road Warriors and Paul Ellering storm their way to the ring. Arn and Ole don't leave the ring, choosing to stand their ground. All of a sudden, J.J. whips off his shoe, and before anyone figures out what's going on, Arn nails Paul Ellering with it. Hawk clobbers Arn and the match is in full brawl mode. "Precious" Paul has to be helped back to the locker room by ringside officials and the Andersons now have the Warrior's manager out of the equation. This match follows its start by being very chaotic. Both Hawk and Animal are concerned for their manager and do not seem on their "A" game. The Andersons use this to their advantage and are much more dominant than they would otherwise be. Still, the Road Warriors are tough nuts to crack and still put up a helluva fight. The Wrecking Crew is able to get the best of Animal and work him over hard. They try to work on his arm, but he is able to power out of their submission holds. He is able to reverse an armbar of Arn's and quickly turns it into a backdrop. It looks like he will make it to Hawk, but after handing something to Ole behind the referee's back, J.J. jumps on the apron. This distraction allows Ole to throw a pair of brass knucks to his younger brother, who turns Animal around and decks him. Hawk storms in, but Tommy Young, after J.J. timely drops to the apron, stands in his way and eventually sends the flustered Road Warrior back to his corner fuming. Arn motions his thumb across his neck in a cutting motion while Ole turns around and raises his hands in victory. Tommy Young counts 1-2 and Animal kicks out at 2! Arn is stunned. Panicking, he quickly tries to pick up his opponent, but with Arn's guard down Animal grabs Arn by the hair, and drops to his knees, knocking Arn's jaw against his head. Stunned, Arn crawls to a still unsuspecting Ole to tag him. "Rock" eventually turns around and after the initial shock, tags in, but Animal makes it to Hawk who comes in with a vengeance. He cleans house, kicking serious Anderson butt. Ole tags in Arn, who punches his larger opponent with little to no effect. But when Hawk tries for a back body drop, Arn hits a DDT. This gets a close 2, count, but the Andersons now smell blood. After working Hawk over for a few minutes, Arn holds his now very weakened opponent while Ole climbs to the top rope. An incensed Animal tries to stop the double team and Tommy Young has to intervene. All of a sudden, the crowd picks up. A bandaged Paul Ellering runs down to the ring. He jumps on the apron and pushes Ole off the rope. Ole takes a bad fall. Arn Anderson quickly exits the ring and attacks the already injured Ellering. However, even injured, Ellering, an extremely tough man, still holds own with "Double A" as Animal quickly drops from the apron to enter the fray. Hawk slowly picks up Ole, throws him across the ropes and hits a flying shoulder block. J.J. Dillon climbs to the apron, but a Hawk right hand quickly drops him. Hawk then climbs to the top rope, waits for Ole to stand and hits a flying clothesline, albeit not with his usual impact. He covers Ole and hooks the leg ... and gets 1-2-3 as Ole kicks out not quite in time. Arn is able to throw Animal into the guard rail and enters the ring in disgust. But before he can attack Hawk, Paul Ellering runs in with a chair, chasing him and Ole out. Tommy Young raises Hawk's hand as the crowd cheers. But before any celebrating can happen, the Midnight Express storm the ring. Dennis Condrey clobbers Paul Ellering, knocking the chair from his hand. Bobby Eaton attacks Hawk. Animal climbs back into the ring and helps out his partner and manager. But before any progress can be made, Jim Cornette climbs on the apron and says "Get 'em Bubba!" A massive man in a suit and Fedora hat enters the ring. He starts waylaying both Hawk and Animal. With the help of the Midnights, he has soon laid out all three members of the Legion of Doom. Bubba hits a vicious sidewalk slam on Animal. He then climbs to the top rope and with both Eaton and Condrey, launches on Hawk. Jim Cornette repeatedly pounds Paul Ellering with his tennis racket, adding insult to injury. To make matters even worse, the Midnights then leave with their manager and new strong man with the Road Warriors' newly won belts.
Interviewed on World Wide Wrestling after a success Television Title defense against "Gorgeous" Jimmy Garvin, "Chief" Wahoo McDaniel is asked what he thinks about the recent events surrounding Ric Flair. "I tell you what I think David Crockett." Wahoo says, "It makes me sick. Absolutely sick! Ric Flair is a longtime friend of mine and that hoodlum Tully Blanchard and his no good girlfriend Baby Doll nearly ended his career. Well I'll tell you what. I have come close, but have never won the World Heavyweight Championship. Well there's no time like the present, is there? Tully, I am calling you out. I want a title shot. And the beating I am going to give you is for Ric Flair."
On World Championship Wrestling, Jim Cornette makes his way to the interview podium with his new acquisition and The Midnight Express both proudly carrying a World Tag Team Title belt on their shoulders. "Now Cornette," David Crockett says "you know perfectly well that the Midnight Express are NOT the World Tag Team Champions and that you and your boys are being fined $500 a day until you return those tag belts to the Road Warriors." "$500?" Cornette says in puzzlement. "Shoot, my mama can cover that in a New York minute. These belts are staying right here with their rightful owners- The Midnight Express. And I bet all you people are wondering who this is?" he says pointing to the man only known as "Bubba". "This is my new bodyguard, 'Big' Bubba Rogers. And Road Warriors, just come try and put your hands on me and this man will tear you both LIMB FROM LIMB." Now laughing, Cornette says "That's right, ain't so tough now with your little painted faces now are ya?" The interview then ends with Tony and David both shaking their heads.
Later on, J.J. Dillon, Baby Doll, Arn and Ole Anderson and Tully Blanchard are interviewed after Tully makes easy work of Scott Peterson. "Tully, you've heard 'Chief' Wahoo McDaniel's challenge" Tony Schiavone says. What do you say?" "Wahoo, you big fat Indian." Tully responds. "You think you can beat me and win my World Title? Well, come and get it, cuz I am not running from you or any of Flair's friends." "And Road Warriors," Arn Anderson says "don't think because you got beat up after our match last week that we've forgotten you. Nuh uh. The Andersons don't forget." "And Russians, that goes for you and our Six Man Trophy." Ole adds. "Crockett, Schiavone, you are looking at the elite of pro wrestling today. We will dominate." J.J. Dillon then says, closing the interview.
At the beginning of the next World Championship Wrestling, Tony and David start the show off very somberly. "Something very disturbing happened at a show in Greenville, South Carolina. Let's just roll the footage." Schiavone says. A clip from the ending of a Tully Blanchard vs. Wahoo McDaniel match is shown. Wahoo is clearly dominating and looks to be in a position to win the World Title. All of a sudden, the Andersons storm the ring. Wahoo fights them off for as long as possible, but is eventually overwhelmed. Then, while Arn and Ole hold "The Chief" down, Tully takes off his belt and the clip ends with the World Champion repeatedly whipping Wahoo with the leather strap.
Later on, Blanchard and his cohorts come out, all laughing. "Can you please explain your actions?" asks an angry David Crockett. "Just who do you think you are?" "I tell you who I am, I'm Tully Blanchard and I am the World's Champion. Wahoo, you stuck your big nose where it didn't belong and you paid the price. Don't let it happen again! And anyone else who has any funny ideas, well," he says now chuckling "you just may not be so lucky. Let's go boys." And at this they exit.
The main event for the night has the Road Warriors defend their titles, still without the belts against Teijo Khan and Shaska Whatley. Though a good team, Khan and Whatley are in the wrong place at the wrong time. Paul Jones' duo puts up little offense as the still enraged Road Warriors go through them like a knife through hot butter. Afterwards they express their indignation in an interview. "Well, Jim Cornette wants to get rough?" starts off Hawk. "No problem, Corny, we're happy to oblige! Eaton, Condrey, enjoy wearing our belts while you can, because, pretty soon, we're going to make you eat 'em!" "You think that stunt you pulled last week was bad?" Animal adds. "Brother, you haven't seen bad. We saw that kind of thing growing up on the streets of Chicago two or three times a week. Now you just made us mad." "And Jim Cornette," Paul Ellering states "do you really think hiring some fat bodyguard is going to keep me off you?" Now laughing lightly he says "Better think again. The Legion of Doom does not forgive and we don't forget. Hire a bodyguard, hell hire a mercenary force. It will do you no good." The LOD leaves as the crowd cheers their approval as the show closes.
Things in the NWA are now past the boiling point. In a house show in Norfolk, Ron Garvin gives a great effort against Tully Blanchard several times nearly winning the title. However, putting his foot on the ropes for leverage after a bodyslam, Blanchard is able to gain an illegitimate pin. The good times do not last long for Tully however, as "Chief" Wahoo storms the ring and attacks the arrogant champion. Then pulling out his Indian strap, he returns the favor Tully gave him, whipping him several times until finally Baby Doll pulls him from the ring. The Road Warriors and the Midnight Express meet in various house shows, Cornette always closely guarded by "Big" Bubba with the belts. The matches between them always end in a count out victory for the Road Warriors as the Midnights retreat or a disqualification after Bubba illegally joins the action.
On World Championship Wrestling, Jim Crockett appears and makes a major announcement: "Last year, The Great American Bash was in Charlotte. Well, the NWA couldn't agree on a location for this year's Bash. So after careful consideration, it has been decided upon, not to have the Bash in any one location. Rather, for one month, starting in early July, there will be a Great American Bash tour. This monumental event will hit 13 American cities. Tour dates will be announced imminently." The announcement of this major event sent things in JCP into overdrive. Later on that card, Nikita Koloff wrestled Jimmy Valiant. The veteran grappler put up a great fight, but in the end, he could not overcome "The Russian Nightmare's" sheer power and fell victim to the sickle. Afterwards, Nikita, his Uncle and "Comrade" Krusher make a blatant challenge. "For too long," the corrupt American politicians have denied my nephew his rightful place. Well, I say here and now, he wants and demands a United States Title shot against your champion, Magnum T.A.!" "The Russian Bear" says. "Let me get this straight" David Crockett says. "You want your nephew, a Russian, to be the United States Heavyweight Champion? Are you mad?" "Mad, no. Angry, YES!" Ivan replies. "The way we Russians have been treated by you no good bourgeois capitalists is inexcusable." "Magnum T.A.," Nikita says. "You are great wrestler for American. But no American can handle the sheer force of a Russian athlete. I will take U.S. Title!" "Well you won't have to wait long for a response." Tony Schiavone says. "Here's Magnum." Sure enough the U.S. Champion approaches. "Let me get this straight, this big Commie" Magnum says while pointing at Nikita, "wants MY U.S. Title. Well boy, if you think I would ever let a red take the United States Championship, think again!" "Watch your mouth, son." Krusher says with a deep solemn face. "I'll watch nothing, you no good S.O.B.!" Magnum retorts. The Russians start to approach Magnum, but the appearance of Dusty Rhodes and Wahoo McDaniel makes them think otherwise. The segment goes to a commercial with the two sides at each others throats.
The next week, two monumental events occur. First, Magnum and Nikita meet to sign a contract to meet for the U.S Title on an upcoming episode of World Championship Wrestling on the SuperStation. Nikita has his Uncle Ivan with him, Magnum is with his mother. After the signing, Nikita insults Magnum, his mother and American women in general. This causes Magnum to jump the table and attack Nikita, only to be double teamed and beat up by both Koloffs. [2]
However, later on, Ric Flair makes his triumphant return! "Welcome back, champ!" Tony Schiavone says. "Thank you. Thank you, Tony, David, and all my fans. So Tully Blanchard, Baby Doll... Baby Doll, Baby Doll, Baby Doll. You set me up. You got me. I was a fool! How I could have fallen for that, I'll never know. I should've known, once a Jezebel, always a Jezebel. You burned my face and tried to end my career. Well guess what? I'm still here! I took a little time off and after being World's Champion 365 days a year for the last two years, I deserved it. But now, I'm back. And Tully, let me make this very clear. The Great American Bash. Woooo! My kind of event. "Slick" Ric hitting every major venue in America. If you think this summer will end, without me holding my World Title, think again! And bring, Baby Doll, bring J.J., bring Arn, bring Ole, bring 'em all. It will do you no good. Because, cream always rises to the top, diamonds are forever and so is Ric Flair! And "Super Brat" don't you forget it! Wooooo! Wooooo! Wooooo!" "Ric Flair, welcome back." David Crockett says jubilantly.
The next week on World Championship Wrestling, after saying that Magnum was stripped of the United States Championship, David Crockett calls for two clips to be rolled.
The first has NWA President Bob Geigel meeting with Magnum T.A. Mr. Geigel tells Magnum that due to his action at the press conference, he will be reprimanded for conduct unbecoming the United States Champion. Magnum is angered by this and asks Geigel what would he do if it was his mother. Geigel repeats his statement of Magnum's conduct being unbecoming an NWA Champion. Magnum retorts by telling Geigel to "reprimand this" and slugs the NWA President hard on his neck knocking him down.
This leads to the second clip which has Bob Geigel announcing that because he attacked an NWA official in the performance of his duty, he has been stripped of the U.S. Title after a vote of the National Wrestling Alliance board of directors.
After a commercial break, Ivan, Nikita and Krusher are out for an interview declaring Nikita to be the U.S. Champion. Jim Crockett then comes out and informs the Russians that though Magnum is no longer the champion, neither is Nikita. He then informs the Russians that Nikita Koloff, the number one contender and Magnum T.A., the former champion, will meet in a best of seven series for the vacant U.S. Title, starting at the Great American Bash, July 1 in Philadelphia. Ivan once again declares an "American conspiracy" and adds "Nephew Nikita is the United States Heavyweight Champion. But, being generous as we are, we will grant Magnum T.A. a couple of title shots." [3]
The next World Wide has Arn and Ole making an example of Sam Houston and Tony Zane. Afterwards they, J.J., Baby Doll and Tully Blanchard have an interview. "First off," J.J. Dillon says "We are glad to see Ric Flair up and running. That being said, we have to make something clear. Flair, you may think you are entitled to an automatic shot, but I beg to disagree. The NWA's bylaws clearly state that the former champion has a rematch clause, but must exercise it within 30 days. You failed to do so." That's because Baby Doll threw fire in his eyes!" David Crockett interjects. "Don't interrupt me again." Dillon says in a harsh tone. "Now, if Lou Thesz himself, who is the greatest World Champion of all time..." Seeing Tully's head jump he clarifies, saying "who was the greatest World Champion of all time, wanted a shot, he would not automatically get it. He'd have to get in line and earn it. So Ric Flair, maybe after proving yourself, you can have another shot. Until then, no dice."
World Championship Wrestling opens with an announcement that the NWA Board of Directors has reached a decision on Ric Flair's title shot status and that Jim Crockett would make an announcement later on in the show. A few segments in, a clip goes to Mr. Crockett's office, and he says the following words. "Traditionally, the former NWA World Champion is entitled to a rematch within 30 days. However, Tully Blanchard's manager is correct in saying that Ric Flair did not exercise his clause within the required 30 days. However, due to the circumstances by which he lost the title and the injury he suffered, the NWA Board of Directors has reached what we believe is a fair solution. During the Great American Bash, Ric Flair will meet Ole Anderson in Charlotte on July 5 and Arn Anderson in Richmond on July 18. If Mr. Flair can win both matches, he will be granted a title shot in Norfolk on July 25. If not, then he will still wrestle World Champion Tully Blanchard on that date, but the match will be non-title. Either way, if Flair wins that match, title on the line or not, there will be a World Title match between them to close out the Bash, August 2 in Atlanta. If not, Tully Blanchard will defend the title against the winner of the Magnum-Nikita contest."
The Great American Bash is proving to be the hottest event of the summer. A slew of matches, many of the grudge matches with special stipulations, are signed. The Road Warriors will meet the Midnight Express for the World Tag Team Title in a ladder match, with both belts suspended above the ring. First team to grab both belts wins. Additionally, the Midnights will team with "Big" Bubba Rogers and meet the LOD with their manager, Paul Ellering, in a six man match. Jimmy Valiant will meet Shaska Whatley in a hair v. hair match. The World Six Man Tag Team Titles will be on the line in a three way Russian Chain/Texas Bull Rope/ Indian Strap match. The Russians will meet The Minnesota Wrecking Crew and Tully Blanchard and Dusty Rhodes, Magnum T.A. and Wahoo McDaniel. Each team will have its members have a hand tied to one of the three different fasteners and the match will go to the first fall. Other great matches are booked, some (such as title defenses and number one contender matches) which are dependent on the outcome of matches earlier on in the Bash and on other cards beforehand. On the eve of the first night of the Bash, Tony Schiavone declares "Three days from now in Philly, the Great American Bash tour gets underway. Fans, it's going to be the biggest night in the history of our sport!"
