Text By Simon Rawls

What if...Ric Flair helped Dusty Rhodes after the cage match?

Part I

Our story begins on September 29, 1985 at the Omni in Atlanta. Ric Flair has just successfully defended the NWA World Title against Nikita Koloff in a grueling cage match. After the match, Nikita's Uncle Ivan and Krusher Khrushchev enter the cage and triple team the champion. Dusty Rhodes then storms the cage and makes the save for his longtime rival in a show of American camaraderie. After emptying the cage of Russians, Rhodes focuses his attention on the fallen Flair. Still not trusting of Dusty, Flair points and yells what appear to be disparaging remarks to "the American Dream". Rhodes is clearly confused, trying to explain to Flair that he was helping him. At this point, the Anderson Brothers [1] enter the cage and attack Dusty.

September 29, 1985

Flair slowly stands up. He looks right at the Andersons and gives a loud "woo". "He gives a big grin and tells the Andersons to "hold that fat man for me". The rugged Minnesotans happily oblige. Flair then charges to hit Dusty with a punch... and at the last second, to the crowd's ecstatic cheers, "The Nature Boy" slugs Ole Anderson instead. Arn's jaw drops to the mat. A second later he regains his senses and attacks Flair, who blocks his punch and hits one of his own. Seconds later the two are going at it. Ole recovers and is about to hit Flair with a double fist smash. But Dusty Rhodes has regained his equilibrium, swings Ole around, and nails him with a bionic elbow. The two former rivals are now working hand and hand against the Andersons. In just a little over a minute, the Norsemen realize that today is not there day and retreat from the cage. Dusty and Flair stare at each other for several seconds. Flair finally offers "The Dream" his hand and after a second, Dusty accepts. Rhodes smiles and Flair give off an even louder "woo" than before".

September-November 1985

The new alliance between Flair and Rhodes, two long-time rivals, sends shockwaves throughout the National Wrestling Alliance. The promotion's top two stars now on the same side. What would be the implications? From Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling to World Wide, to Jim Crockett Promotions (JCP) flagship show, World Championship Wrestling, speculation is abound as the clip of the incident runs over and over and is continually discussed by announcers, wrestlers and fans alike. Finally on World Championship Wrestling, the two come out for an interview with David Crockett and Tony Schiavone along with Rhodes' "America's Team" tag team partner, Magnum T.A.

The fans cheer loudly as the three favorites make there way down the announce area. All are smiling wide. David Crockett proclaims "Dusty, Magnum ... Nature Boy ... I'd never thought I'd see this day. How did it happen?" "Well David Crockett" Ric Flair responds, "I'll be honest with you. When I first saw Dusty Rhodes in the cage, I didn't know what to think." Chuckling lightly he continues "You know we have a bit of a past. But when I saw those no good Andersons attack him after he had just saved me... well I just knew what had to be done. And let me tell you, hanging with Dusty and Magnum over the last two weeks ..." Flair then starts chuckling again. "What "The Nature Boy' means to say" Magnum intervenes "is he is still getting used to his new surroundings. I mean Ric is used to limousines, posh nightclubs, French restaurants and caviar. And Dusty and I have been showing him motorcycles, roadhouses, and good old fashioned BBQ." Putting his hand on Flair's shoulder and laughing slightly, Magnum continues, "But don't worry, Ric's learnin'." ""Dream'?" Tony Schiavone says, addressing Dusty Rhodes. "Well let me tell you somethin' Tony Schiavone. The Russians thought they could just walk over Ric Flair, a fellow American, right here in the Omni in Atlanta, Georgia. Well Dusty Rhodes didn't like that. And then Arn and Ole Anderson, the vultures that they are, thought they could use the opportunity to take me out. But, you see Tony Schiavone, what those two no good yellow bellies didn't count on is Ric Flair. You see, he may be a bit of a high roller (Flair nods his head) but he is still a stand up kind of man. He is the NWA World's Champion. And boys, anytime you two want to go back to the woodshed, we ain't hard to find." Flair then says "Arn, Ole, Ivan, Nikita, Krusher, anytime you want to take a ride on Space Mountain, just hop in line. Woooo!" The three then leave the interview area with everyone in high spirits, Tony Schiavone and David Crockett smiling as happy as kids when the school bell rings.

On the next episode of Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling, in the last match, the Andersons successfully defend their National Tag Team Titles, venting their obvious frustration and making short work of Rocky King and the Italian Stallion. Afterwards they go to the podium for an interview with Bob Caudle and Tony Schiavone. "Arn, Ole" Caudle begins, "Everyone has been asking, what were the two of you thinking, attacking Dusty Rhodes after he had just saved Ric Flair from the Russians?" "First off" Ole begins, "I want to publicly apologize to Arn right now." Arn shakes his head "No Ole, don't do ..." "No. I have to" "The Rock" responds. "You see, I was under the impression that Ric Flair was finally starting to get his head straight. I mean he had just beaten Nikita Koloff- barely- but that's besides the point. And when I saw Rhodes in that cage and I knew Arn and I had to take our chances and take that fat loudmouth out once and for all. I never thought Ric Flair, who has never done a selfless thing in his life, would rain on our parade. But... that's exactly what did happen. And Ric, let me let you in on something: We're NOT the Russians. And when we're done with you, there ain't going to be nothing left. But Arn, I should've known better. You see, Ric Flair has been a thorn in our family's side now for a long time now. He used to spend his time tormenting me and our older brother, Gene. And now, he's continuing the tradition. In fact, you in the back roll that tape I brought you earlier." Sure enough a tape plays showing Ric Flair confronting Gene Anderson. [2] After the clip ends, the camera returns to the TV studio. Arn and Ole are both bloody and laid out, the podium has been overturned and Bob Caudle and Tony Schiavone are both speechless with eggs on their faces as the show ends.

Wrestling fans everywhere are asking "What happened while the Gene Anderson-Ric Flair video was running?" Only fans live and in attendance and those they talked to know and that number is only a micro portion of fans of Jim Crockett Promotions in America and around the world. Finally on World Championship Wrestling, David Crockett and Tony Schiavone, both hyped up address the issue. "Fans," Crockett begins "I know everyone has been asking what happened to the Andersons at the end of Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling, and folks let me tell you, it was a shocker. Let's roll the footage." The footage then airs, starting right when the clip went to the vintage footage. Immediately after that, the Russians stormed the ringside area and blindsided the Andersons, Nikita using the chain as a weapon. For almost two minutes they beat the unsuspecting Andersons senseless, ending with Krusher slamming the announcer's podium on Ole. World Championship Wrestling then resumes. "Now folks you just now saw what happened." Tony Schiavone explains. "And a little later on the Russians are wrestling and then we will hear their explanation."

After a few matches, Krusher Khrushchev and Nikita Koloff wrestle Sam Houston and Brady Boone with Ivan Koloff in their corner. The young American duo tries their best, but they are quickly bested by the larger more experienced Russians (and having Ivan interfere on their behalf a couple of times doesn't hurt either). As soon as the match ends with a Nikita Russian sickle to Boone, followed by a quick pin, the three make their way to the interview podium. "Ivan, Nikita, Krusher" David Crockett begins, "Everyone is waiting for an explanation for your actions on World Wide. "Mr. David Crockett," Ivan Koloff begins, "the explanation is simple. "You Americans are weak- weak and divided. And the Andersons are two stupid Americans like the rest of you. They thought they could come out and run their mouths about me, nephew Nikita and comrade Krusher? Well, they were wrong! And they learned the hard way, right Nikita?" "Andersons you think Russians can no get the job done? Well look at this." Nikita says in a very deep voice, pointing to a NWA World Tag Team Title belt that he and Ivan have just won from the Rock 'n' Roll Express. "We are the World Tag Team Champions, and the World Six Man Tag Team Champions. Soon I will beat Ric Flair and become the World Heavyweight Champion!" Krusher then says, "You Americans never learn, do you? No, you don't. Thing is, we don't care who we have to destroy to take the gold. In fact Andersons, we're going to add the National Tag Team Titles to go along with the World Titles. And next week, I'm going to take the U.S. Title from another weak American, Tully Blanchard." The interview concludes with the three Russians all laughing in a low yet eerie tone.

A week passes and it is time for the U.S. Title match. Khrushchev comes to the ring first accompanied by Ivan. Then Tully Blanchard, as arrogant as ever, comes to the ring with his valet, Baby Doll. Blanchard wisely keeps his distance from the Soviets until the bell rings and he and Krusher lock up. The two go at it for several minutes, neither giving an inch. At separate times, Ivan and Baby Doll both try to interfere (neither strangers to that art) but both times referee Tommy Young turns his head before they can complete the task. Krusher eventually gains the advantage and beats Tully down. He then whips the champion across the ropes and goes for the Russian sickle, but Tully ducks and running across the ropes hits a clothesline. He then puts Krusher in his patented slingshot suplex and goes for the pin. But before he can get 3, Ivan runs in and interferes, causing the disqualification. Baby Doll immediately runs in and pulls Ivan off her man. Incensed an American woman would put her hands on him, Ivan turns an evil glare towards Baby Doll. Nikita then enters the ring and the three Russians all eye Baby Doll. But before they know what hit them, the Andersons charge the ring and attack the Russians, looking for some payback. Tully Blanchard joins the fray and the six men go at it. Eventually the three American heels clear the ring. Arn and Ole both shake hands with Tully and raise each others hands to celebrate the forming of a new alliance.

On the next World Championship Wrestling, some of the matches for the upcoming annual Thanksgiving extravaganza, Starrcade, are announced. In a title vs. title match, the Koloffs will defend their World Tag Team Championships against the Minnesota Wrecking Crew who will put their National Tag Team Titles on the line. Additionally, the Rock "n' Roll Express will be in the match. It will be Texas Tornado rules, with one fall. Only the team that loses will lose their title if any. In a rematch for the U.S. Title, Tully Blanchard will defend his title against rival and former champion Magnum T.A. in an "I Quit" cage match, which cannot end until one of the contestants says "I Quit" into the microphone. Dusty Rhodes is booked to defend the World Television Championship against Krusher Khrushchev. And in a historic moment, Ric Flair is booked to defend his NWA World Championship ... in a title vs. title match versus AWA World Heavyweight Champion Rick Martel! [3]

The star-studded card, which is announced will take place in both the Omni in Atlanta, Georgia and the Coliseum in Greensboro, North Carolina, sends the entire wrestling world, north and south, abuzz. For the first time in over 25 years, the rift between the NWA and AWA could finally be at least partially mended in the form of one unified World Heavyweight Champion. And the stacked undercard is guaranteeing Starrcade 85, appropriately billed "The Gathering", will be a night to remember.

The reaction to the card is immediate. Tully Blanchard, Baby Doll and their new allies, the Andersons, are the first to comment in an interview on that episode of World Championship Wrestling. "You know this is just what the doctor ordered." Tully gloats. "I mean does Magnum T.A. think I am afraid of him? Or that I would ever quit to the likes of him? Guess again, Magnum. Come Starrcade in Greensboro, I'm taking you out once and for all. And then, Ric Flair ... or Rick Martel, it doesn't matter to me ... after Starrcade, I'm coming for the World's Titles. Get ready." Arn then chimes in. "Koloffs, Rock "n' Roll Express, the match we have is going to be unprecedented. Three teams, two titles-both on the line. No rules. First pinfall counts. Look for the Andersons to take all the gold." "That's right." says Ole. And when the three of us, with this lovely woman (Baby Doll grins widely at this flattery) walk that aisle with both our National and the World Tag Team Titles, just watch out." "Well Ole, Arn, we have some news for you and all the fans" David Crockett says with a gleaming smile. "What's that, Crockett?" Ole responds. "Well next week, right here at the Omni, you're going to meet Robert Gibson, Arn there is going to face Ivan Koloff and Ricky Morton is wrestling Nikita  Koloff. A build up to the big night." "That's fine." Arn says. "They may not make it to Greensboro". This statement causes laughter amongst his group. "Wait, wait, Arn. Your confused." Arn gives Crockett a puzzled look. "Tully is wrestling in Greensboro ... but you and Ole will be in Atlanta! This announcement causes a huge pop from the crowd, but has the three new allies livid. "What do you mean, Atlanta? We're not going to be separated!" Ole angrily shouts. "Oh yes you are." David Crockett responds. "I am going to see your no good brother right now!" Ole shouts. "Come on!"

Next week on World Championship Wrestling, it is announced at the beginning of the show that there would be more NWA/AWA interpromotional matches as well as an AWA intrapromotional match. Additionally, both Ric Flair and Rick Martel will be on the air the next week to give interviews.

The first of the three buildup matches has Ole Anderson facing Robert Gibson. Arn accompanies Ole and Morton comes with Gibson. Referee Teddy Long, however, sends both men back to the dressing room. The two go at it, Ole relying more on roughhousing and traditional pro wrestling and Gibson using more highflying tactics. Ole was able to take advantage with a thumb to the eye, ignoring Teddy Long's warnings. He puts Gibson in an armbar, but the young rock "n' roller is able to reach the ropes, causing a break. Ole tries a cheapshot, but Gibson blocks it and turns up the heat with a punch of his own. He then follows up with a hip toss and a couple of dropkicks. He goes for a third, but Ole moves out the way. Ole, still groggy, whips Gibson across the ropes for a lariat, but Gibson responds with a flying cross body press and is able to keep Ole down for three. Robert Gibson promptly exits leaving a not happy "Rock" to gripe about his loss.

The next match in the series has Arn Anderson facing Ivan Koloff. Both hard-hitting excellent match technicians, they put on an excellent fight, repeatedly exchanging the advantage, occasionally helped with a low blow or rake to the eyes. Having Arn weakened, Ivan goes for the Russian Sickle, but Arn is able to duck it and turn it in to a spinebuster for a victory.

The final match is Nikita Koloff against Ricky Morton. Morton throws every highflying tactic he has against the big Russian, and dodges every blow he can. But the large "Russian Nightmare" proves too much a challenge on this day. And after wearing down the much smaller Morton, he nails the Russian sickle and gets the pinfall, evening the count to one victory per team.

The day of the two big interviews arrives. Ric Flair is first. "The NWA World Champion, "The Nature Boy' Ric Flair" Tony Schiavone proudly announces. "Ric," David Crockett says, "give us your thoughts on your upcoming unification match with AWA Champion Rick Martel." "Well David Crockett, as you well know, I travel the whole world defending this" Flair says while patting the NWA belt. "And I am known this whole wide world over as world's champion. THE World's Champion. The best. But, low and behold, there is another man who claims that very crown. And David, he is good. He's damn good. Athletes finer than Rick Martel are few and far between. And that belt he holds ... well it speaks volumes. But NO title is more respected than the NWA World Heavyweight Title. And come November 28, I am going to do it proud and show the whole just who is the Real World's Heavyweight Champion. Wooooo!"

A few segments later, the moment all have been anticipating arrives. "Ladies and gentlemen" David Crockett says, "Please welcome the AWA World Heavyweight Wrestling Champion, Rick Martel!" Mostly cheers (and a few boos) are heard as Rick Martel makes his way to the interview podium. "Thank you. Thank you, Atlanta." Martel says. "Welcome champ." says Tony Schiavone who offers Martel his hand. Martel shakes it and David Crockett follows suit. "Now, in just a few weeks, I am going to get the chance of a lifetime. I will be meeting the most recognizable wrestler with the most recognizable title ... yes I admit it. BUT, on that day, I will prove that the AWA and its World Title are equal to the NWA World Title. Additionally, I will become the NW..." The interview is interrupted by the appearance of the Andersons and Tully Blanchard. "Hold on now." Tully says. "Just who do you think you are? Some of us have been waiting in line for years for a NWA World Title shot and you just walk in here and think you deserve one?" "I do deserve one Blanchard. Look at this." Martel says, pointing to his belt. "Wait a second, boy" Ole responds. "Don't flash that trinket here. That belt is worthless here." "Trinket?" Martel angrily responds. "I show you what a trinket it is. Just come a little closer." The three approach Martel, only to have Ric Flair come from behind and waylay Ole. Seconds later the two World Champions are fighting three opponents side by side. The fighting eventually spills into the ring. After a few minutes of intense fighting, Flair and Martel clear the ring. The two stare at each other for several seconds, then shake hands. There is then a commercial break.

When World Championship Wrestling returns on the air, Flair and Martel are back at the announce podium. "Jim Crockett," Flair shouts, "if you can hear me, I want you here right now! Me and Martel demand a tag match next week against any two of those buffoons. Hell, we'll take on all three of "em. We don't care!" Seconds later, Jim Crockett Promotions president, Jim Crockett, Jr. appears. "Ric, Rick" he says, "next week, I have booked a tag match between the two of you against Arn Anderson and Tully Blanchard." "Good, Mr. Crockett" Martel says. "And in seven short days, I am going to show Arn and Tully just what the AWA is made of!" The show then ends with the two World Champions standing together as one.

With Starrcade less than a week away, the NWA is on fire. On the last World Championship Wrestling before the big event, everyone has something to say. The Koloffs won't stop bragging about how they are going to take the National Tag Team Titles to add to their collection.  Krusher Khrushchev is already calling himself the next World Television Champion. The Andersons swear they are going to capture World gold and pummel those "punk sissies" the Rock "n" Roll Express while they are at it. The Rock "n" Roll Express promise another upset, pointing out that "dynamite does come in small packages." Both Magnum T.A. and Tully Blanchard vow they will never quit to the other. And Dusty Rhodes promises he's going to make Krusher Khrushchev wish he had never turned his back on America.  Finally, the much anticipated tag match arrives.

Tully and Arn come down to ringside with Baby Doll. Then the two World Champions make their way to the ring. Flair starts off with Arn, not surprisingly without a handshake. The two lock up then push off. They try again. This time Flair puts Arn in a headlock. Anderson pushes Flair away and they run the ropes then collide shoulders, neither budging. The do it again and Flair hits a hip toss. Then another. Blanchard enters the ring and gets a dropkick. Martel then enters and he and Flair clear the ring. Their opponents regroup and Tully is tagged in. He and Flair lock up, then Martel is shortly tagged in. He and Tully go at it, both exchanging harsh words. Martel gets the advantage, but Blanchard is able to make a blind tag to Arn. A sneak attack and a double team gain them the advantage. Flair tries to intervene, but while Tommy Young is sending him back to his corner, the two heels use the time to further beat the AWA Champion down. Arn and Tully get many close counts, proving they are a formidable team, even for their first time together. Tully eventually goes for his slingshot suplex, but Martel is able to reverse it and executes a suplex of his own. Tully is able to tag Arn first, who prevents Martel's tag to Flair, but an attempted back body drop gets "Double A" a kick to the face. Arn tags a still shaken Tully, but this time Flair is tagged and goes to work to the crowd's elation. Baby Doll jumps on the ring apron causing Arn to try to intervene. But he gets a Flair low blow for his efforts. Martel then enters the ring and dropkicks Arn out of it. He and Flair then hit Tully with a double suplex and Flair gets the pin. Ole Anderson charges the ring and in seconds the two World Champions are pounding on him. Arn grabs a chair and reenters, but before he can use it Dusty and Magnum T.A. are there to head him off. The Russian trio then storms the ring and attacks all parties. The Rock "n" Roll Express joins the fray and World Championship Wrestling ends in all out donnybrook with David Crockett exclaiming "We'll see you at Starrcade!"

November 28, 1985: Starrcade '85: The Gathering

The big night has finally arrived. Fans the world over are ready for
"the granddaddy of them all." A star studded card lines both Atlanta and Greensboro.

In Greensboro, Dusty Rhodes sets to defend his World Television Title against Krusher Khrushchev. The two go at it hard from the opening bell, knowing national pride as well as world gold is on the line. There is little technical wrestling involved. After a double clothesline/sickle, both men are knocked out. Krusher is able to get up first and goes for a double arm smash. But Dusty beats him to the punch hitting a punch to the groin and hits several bionic elbows, winding up the last one for several seconds. It knocks the large Russian to the ground. Dusty then drops a final elbow for the victory.

The Atlanta fans are given the rare treat of seeing stars of the AWA compete. Greg Gagne wins a great match against Larry Zbyszko with his sleeper. The All-American team of Sgt. Slaughter and Don Kernodle win a grudge match the Warsaw Pact team of Boris Zukhov and Baron Von Raschke. The Midnight Express (with the help of manager Jim Cornette and his loaded tennis racket) beat the Midnight Rockers in a classic tag team encounter, featuring high-flying, fast tags and great technical moves.

Atlanta's semi-main event match, the World/National Tag Team Title Three Way Texas Tornado, tears down the house. All three teams are determined to prove themselves as the NWA's dominant team. The action, fast-paced and intense, never lets up. Even with Tommy Young, Teddy Long and Randy Anderson all officiating, keeping up with all the close pins and intense actions proves a daunting challenge. All parties take advantage of the no rules stipulation and use chairs, chains (initiated by the Russians though the Andersons and Rock "n' Roll Express have no problems using them either), the ring bell and anything else they can get their hands on. After over twenty minutes of grueling action, all six men are a bloody mess and are struggling for breath- and to walk. All at once, Ivan hits Arn with a Russian sickle, Ricky Morton dodges a Nikita Koloff turnbuckle splash and Ole hits Robert Gibson with a piledriver. All three men pin their stunned opponents ... at the same time! After several minutes of arguing between the wrestlers and referees, the three referees confer and announce the decision. "Ladies and gentleman" ring announcer Tom Miller begins, "the referees have reached a decision. The rules of the match were that the first fall scored would count. As all three falls were at the same time, all were the first fall. Therefore, the Andersons are credited with a victory over the Rock "n' Roll Express, the Koloffs are credited with a victory over the Andersons and are the new National Tag Team Champions (this announcement causes Ole and Arn's faces to drop) and the Rock "n' Roll Express are credited with a victory over the Koloffs ... and are the new World Tag Team Champions!" The Koloffs are furious at this last announcement. Ricky and Robert embrace as they are awarded the World Tag Team Titles- now for the second time.

Back in Greensboro, Magnum T.A. and Tully Blanchard are set for their epic cage match for the United States Title. The two go at it with pure venom and vigor, neither giving an inch. Many times both demand the microphone and tell his opponent to say the deciding words. Neither man will comply. Tully knocks down referee Earl Hebner, prompting Baby Doll to throw in a wooden chair. Tully breaks the chair, tries to cut Magnum with a sharp broken piece of it, but he blocks it and uses it on Tully's forehead, causing Tully bleed profusely. Magnum again asks the question and Tully screams "Yes." and Magnum is given the victory.

Finally it is time for the main event in Atlanta. Both World Champions are introduced. NWA President Bob Geigel, AWA President Stanley Blackburn, Jim Crockett Promotions President Jim Crockett Jr. and AWA owner Verne Gagne are also introduced and all shake hands with both wrestlers. Jim Crockett then gets on the microphone and declares that this is a very important historical match and any JCP wrestler who interferes will be stiffly fined and suspended. Stanley Blackburn says the exact same thing regarding his AWA contingency. All parties but referee Tommy Young, Ric Flair and Rick Martel then exit the ring. The bell rings, the two champs shake hands and the match is on. AWA referee Dick Woehrle is assigned as the outside second referee. Flair and Martel have a classic match- one for the ages. Both know what is at stake and neither pulls a punch. They repeatedly trade holds and blows. The fans are solidly behind Flair, though Martel is by no means hated or booed. Martel nearly gets Flair in his Boston crab, but Flair is able to make it to the ropes before it is cinched in. Flair goes for the figure four, but Martel turns it in to a small package for a close two count. "The Nature Boy" hits Martel with a dropkick and sends him into the turnbuckle, inadvertently squashing a poorly positioned Tommy Young, who falls and rolls out of the ring. Dick Woehrle attends to his fellow referee. Seconds later, Flair charges at Martel and the two go flying outside the ring over the top rope. Both hit the floor stunned. After a few moments, they go at it exchanging punches, chops and kicks. Martel slams Flair's head into the guardrail, causing a storm of boos from the Atlanta crowd. He then throws Ric Flair back into the ring and follows suit. He picks Flair up for a double underhook suplex, but Flair blocks it. Martel attempts it a second time and it is again blocked. Martel releases Flair and goes for a right hand. The NWA Champion ducks, kicks the AWA Champion in the gut and executes a double underhook suplex of his own. He twists his body midair and lands with him having Martel pinned in a reverse nelson. Dick Woehrle dives in the ring and makes the three count. For the first time in over twenty-five years, the NWA and AWA titles are reunited! Flair's hand is raised in victory. The locker room storms out. Dusty Rhodes, Magnum T.A., Ron Garvin, Jimmy Valiant all congratulate the new unified champion- their champion. Rick Martel proudly shakes Ric Flair's hand as do all the promoters on hand. The fans in Atlanta eventually leave the Omni after experiencing a night they will never, ever forget.

December 1985-Febraury 1986

At the opening of the next episode of Word Wide, the camera immediately goes to Jim Crockett, Jr. Mr. Crockett says "On Thanksgiving Night thousands of fans in attendance and all around America saw Starrcade 85. The main event saw the National Wrestling Alliance World Champion, Ric Flair wrestle the American Wrestling Association World Champion, Rick Martel in fantastic match. And at the end of the night, Ric Flair was declared the new, unified World Champion. However, moments before the pin, he knocked Rick Martel over the top rope. AWA referee, Dick Woehrle, who made the pinfall, did not see this as he was attending to an injured Tommy Young. However, Mr. Young did see this, though he was too injured to speak at the time it happened. Mr. Young has indicated had he been capable, he would have called for the disqualification of Ric Flair. Based on this, the result of Starrcade's main event has been declared null and void. Ric Flair is still the NWA World Champion and Rick Martel is still the AWA World Champion." [4]

Later on in the show, the Minnesota Wrecking Crew wrestle and make minced meat out of the Mulkey Brothers. Afterwards, they further vent their outrage. "Koloffs, Rock "n' Roll Express, you both have something that belongs to us." Ole begins. "And when we get our hands on either one of you, watch out." ""Rock', as usual you're 100% right. Whether it's that old commie and his peanut brain nephew, or those teeny boppers, we don't care. Just realize that your days as champions are numbered. The Andersons are gunning for you.

On World Championship Wrestling, the main event is announced as a World Six Man Tag Team Title defense with the Russians defending their trophy against Dusty Rhodes, Magnum T.A. and Sam Houston. Ric Flair is also set to be interviewed regarding his apparent Starrcade title win and the subsequent reversal. The Rock "n' Roll Express also have a match against Jim and Mack Jeffers.

 In their first appearance since regaining the World Tag Team Title, the Rock "n' Roll Express make quick work of the Jeffers, winning with their patented double dropkick. They then go to Tony and David for an interview. "Well, boys," David Crockett says enthusiastically with a huge smile, "it looks like rock "n' roll is here to stay." "Mr. Crockett, rock "n' roll will never die." Ricky Morton says. "Robert and I proved that at Starrcade. We fought the fight of our lives. And I give both the Andersons and the Koloffs a lot of credit. I may not like them, but they are double tough. And I know we'll be fighting both of them again real soon. Boys ... just come on and bring it!" "Robert?" Crockett says addressing Robert Gibson. "Well I think Ricky just about said it all, except for one thing: We NEVER could have won it at Starrcade without all our great fans!" Gibson says to a huge crowd pop. "Thank you all!"

Later on Ric Flair comes down for an interview to loud cheers. "Nature Boy," David Crockett says, "Welcome." "Welcome, CHAMP" says a proud Tony Schiavone. "Thank you." Flair begins. "At Starrcade '85, Rick Martel and I fought the fight of our lives. It will go down as a classic for the ages. And by God there is not a wrestler in this whole world I respect more than Martel. Not one. After Thanksgiving, I know he is worthy of the title "World's Champion'. Do I wish I was AWA World's Champion? Oh yeah! But as my father used to tell me, "son, life ain't always easy, and it ain't always fair. You just have to keep..." All of a sudden Tully Blanchard interrupts the interview. "Now just a minute, Flair. You come out here and run your big mouth about how much you respect Martel after he screws you out of the AWA Title? And then you give some boring speech about your daddy that no one wants to hear? Tell you what "Slick' Ric, why don't you defend that ten pounds of gold against a real man?" Tully says, ending the last sentence pointing to himself with his thumb. "Well Blanchard, when I see a real man, not a QUITTER, I'll do just that." Flair responds. Tully then attacks Flair and the two go at it. Flair gets the best of Tully when the Andersons charge the podium and triple team the World's Champion. Seconds later, a barrage of Flair's friends arrive on the scene, but the damage has already been done. The heel trio retreats with Baby Doll while Dusty, Magnum, Sam Houston and the Rock "n' Roll Express help the fallen champion.

At the main event, the Russians come down looking to take care of business, while Dusty, Magnum and Houston are still clearly perturbed by the attack on Flair. Nikita and Magnum start it out. The Russian gets the upper hand and drags Magnum to his corner where a 3 on 1 beatdown occurs. Dusty and Houston try to intervene, only to have Tommy Young make them go back to their corner, causing an even longer triple team. Nikita tags in Krusher and the Russians dominate for a while. But a missed Ivan turnbuckle charge, allows Rhodes to be tagged in. He quickly takes it to Ivan and then to his other two comrades. Sam Houston joins in and prevents a Nikita sneak attack, dropkicking him out the ring. Shortly after, his comrades are cleared as well and the three Americans now stand tall and celebrate. Eventually the Russians regroup. Krusher tries to enter, but Tommy Young insists that Ivan, the legal man, do so. Begrudgingly and after much arguing the Russian leader reenters. Dusty quickly bests him and tags in Sam Houston. The young Texan hits a barrage of dropkicks and hiptosses Ivan. A leg scissors gets a near three count. But, Ivan manages to reach his corner and tags in Nikita. Houston surprises the big Russian with a leg takedown and headlock. Nikita is eventually able to get back on his feet and executes a backdrop suplex. He then tags in Krusher and the Soviets dominate Houston for several minutes. Nikita eventually tries for a Russian sickle, but Houston ducks and hits a flying body press for a near fall. Nikita regroups and tags in his uncle, but Houston makes it to a fresh Magnum who takes control. This brings in Krusher which in consequence brings in Dusty. While Tommy Young tries to regain control, Nikita grabs the chain from his corner. While Young is forcing Dusty back to his corner, he clobbers Magnum with it. Ivan jumps on him, and when Young turns around, the Russians get the pin.

At this point, the heat amongst the various factions of JCP wrestlers is at an all-time high, and that is saying something. On Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling, The Andersons and Tully fight the Russians in a match for the World Six Man Tag Team Titles. It is a rough and tumble encounter, with both teams bending the rules at every opportunity. Arn hits a gourd buster on Ivan and is able to get the pin and the Six Man trophy, but the celebration is short lived as Ric Flair runs in with a chair and starts pounding the Andersons (and takes a couple of swings at the Koloffs for good measure). Immediately after this, a World Six Man Title match is signed for World Championship Wrestling, pitting The Andersons and Tully Blanchard vs. America's Team and Ric Flair.

When match time comes, both teams are super focused. Magnum and Arn start out and neither gives an inch. But the faces are able to take control and clear the ring. The heels call a "time out" (which Earl Hebner informs them is not valid) and regroup. They eventually reenter the match and are able to take control, getting the better of Ric Flair. But, a kick to Ole's face after an attempted back body drop allows Magnum to be tagged in. Fresh and hungry, Magnum clotheslines the now legal Blanchard, then slugs the Wrecking Crew for good measure. This draws them, and then Dusty in. Seconds later, Baby Doll jumps on the ring apron and starts arguing with Earl Hebner ... when all of a sudden Ric Flair goes over and grabs her, and starts forcibly kissing her. This enrages Tully Blanchard, who charges at Flair ... who moves out the way and causes Tully to run into Baby Doll. A stunned Tully is then hit with Magnum's belly to belly suplex and the faces get the win and the Six Man Championship.

Shortly after this on World Wide, a distraught Tully, along with Ole and Arn Anderson, comes out for an interview. Tully, looking like he's about to cry, starts off. "Flair, you dare to put your hands on my woman? And then you cause me to charge and hurt her? And cost me and the Andersons our World Six Man Championship trophy that we worked so hard far?" Shaking his head he says "Well laugh now, because it won't last long." "Flair, Rhodes, Magnum T.A." Ole Anderson says. "You think you're so smart. Well knocking around a woman is one thing, but knocking us around is a whole nother ball game. That being said, Baby Doll is going to need a little time to heal. And while she did a great job watching our backs, this is a man's business and believe me, it can get ugly. But Arn, Tully and myself did a lot of talking. And we got in touch with a man- a brilliant strategist. And he will not be knocked around by the likes of Dusty Rhodes, Ric Flair or Magnum T.A." "Who are you talking about?" asks David Crockett. "Folks," Arn Anderson says "Without any further adieu, Mr. J.J. Dillon!" The well known, equally hated manager arrogantly strolls to the interview podium. "Thank you, Arn, Ole, Tully." Dillon says patting a still distraught Tully on the shoulder. "You know, it sickens me how some men, the likes of Ric Flair, think just because they have a little money and some small fame that they can push a woman around. Well Flair, I know your type. And you do not impress me. Not one bit. We've had run-ins before, but with these three superior wrestlers, well better hold that belt tight, because it will not be yours very much longer. Nikita may have failed, Rick Martel may have failed, your fat friend Dusty Rhodes may have failed, but failure is not a part of my lexicon. Let's go boys."

Dillon and his new charges do not wait long to seek revenge. Over the next couple of weeks, they attack Sam Houston, Ronnie Garvin and "Chief" Wahoo McDaniel while they are in singles matches, beating them mercilessly. In a tag match on World Wide, Garvin and McDaniel reciprocated the favor, getting the best of the Andersons while they are wrestling Tony Zane and Denny Brown. The circle of violence goes unabated with grudge matches and outside attacks becoming a constant. On World Wide, the Andersons get a rematch for the National Tag Team Titles against Nikita Koloff and Krusher Khrushchev [5] with Ivan in their corner. As usual, it is a rough and tumble encounter with no love lost between either team. Momentum swings back in forth until finally all four men are in the ring together. J.J. jumps on the apron which brings Earl Hebner ... and Ivan Koloff over. Ivan pulls J.J. down and the two get in each others faces. While this is happening and Hebner is arguing with them, Tully runs down to ringside. Nikita is running with Arn to the ropes to set him up for a roll-up. Tully clocks Nikita as Arn ducks, which allows "Double A" to pin "The Russian Nightmare" and regain the National Tag Team Title.

It is announced on all of JCP's programs that in a few weeks, a prime-time special, Superstars on the Superstation , will be airing. Top grudge matches and title defenses are all going to be on the card. On World Championship Wrestling, it is announced that the Andersons would get a shot at the World Tag Team Titles. Tully Blanchard would also be meeting Ron Garvin in a taped-fist match. Other matches are soon added. Ivan Koloff, a former World Champion himself, is given a shot against Ric Flair. Krusher Khrushchev is given another shot for the World Television Title against Dusty Rhodes. The Barbarian, managed by the devious Paul Jones, is given a U.S. Title shot against Magnum T.A. The Midnight Express will meet the Road Warriors, the winner getting a shot at the World Tag Team Title in the near future.

On World Wide, The Barbarian, along with his sadistic manager, Paul Jones, is given a chance to show his stuff against San Houston. Houston gives it everything he has, but is unable to make a dent against the massive Barbarian. At one point, Barbarian catches Houston after an attempted flying body press and repeatedly presses him over his head until finally gorilla slamming him. Houston is able to capitalize on a missed boot and stuns The Barbarian with a clothesline. He then hits him with a bulldog headlock. Pee Wee Anderson counts to 2, but The Barbarian throws Houston off him and goes back on the attack. Houston fights back, but in the end, after a devastating shoulder block and body slam, The Barbarian nails a top rope diving head butt for the win. While Barbarian's hand is raised, Jones looks at the camera and says "You're looking at the next U.S. Champion."

Wrestling the Mulkey Brothers the last World Championship Wrestling before the Friday Night prime-time special, the Midnight Express give what that they say is a sneak preview to Superstars on the Superstation. Introducing them before the match, Jim Cornette proudly says "Gentlemen, meet the men who you're wives want, ladies meet the men you want and everyone meet "Beautiful' Bobby and "Loverboy' Dennis- The Midnight Express!" Their theme music, from the movie of the same name as their team, plays and they make short work of Randy and Bill.

Later on, the Road Warriors wrestle Thunderfoot and George South. Not wasting time, the Warriors storm the ring and dismantle their smaller, lesser skilled opponents. After knocking South down with a hard shoulder block, then tossing him out the ring between the second and top ropes Animal signals for Hawk to climb to the top rope. Hawk does as Animal puts Thunderfoot on his shoulders for the Doomsday Device. Three seconds later and it is over. Afterwards, they and their manager go to the interview podium. "Mr. Ellering, Hawk, Animal" Tony Schiavone says "you have a big match coming up." Ellering starts. "Big match is right, Tony Schiavone. Jim Cornette says his men are the next World Tag Team Champions. Well right here (pointing to his boys) are the next World Tag Team Champions. Animal." "Paul, you just said it. Come Friday night, we're going to tear the Midnight Express limb from limb. They may last longer than these two saps we just beat, but not by much. Tell "em Hawk." "Well," Hawk says. "Look at them and look at us. Who would you be more afraid of David Crockett?" "Oh you, absolutely!" Crockett responds. "That's right!" says Hawk. "And Jim Cornette, get any cute ideas and Paul here will tear you limb from limb!" At this the LOD leaves to the crowd's cheer and the interview concludes.

Everyone else is pumped for the prime-time special. The Andersons swear that their moment will finally come. Ron Garvin says he will "shut that punk Tully Blanchard up for good." Dusty Rhodes swears "Those no good Russians ain't getting mine or "The Nature Boy's' title."

February 2, 1986: Superstars on the Superstation

At the Omni, the prime-time special opens with a clip of Magnum T.A. coming into the arena on his motorcycle with Willie Nelson's "Georgia on a Fast Train" playing in the background. Nelson was also featured in an interview with Dusty Rhodes while filming his TV show, "Stagecoach" and Magnum is seen talking to racecar driver Benny Bartens. Truly a star studded night.

Dusty and Krusher start things off with the World Television Title defense. Dusty taunts Krusher, calling him a "no good traitor" which causes Krusher to foolishly charge Dusty, an act that earns him several bionic elbows. Dusty takes advantage for several minutes, until a low blow turns the tide. After a while, Dusty is able to hip toss his way out of an abdominal stretch and start kicking away at Krusher. He sets the big Russian up for a bulldog, but Khrushchev is able to push out of it and throw Dusty into the opposing turnbuckle. Dusty runs into the turnbuckle, momentum pushes him backwards and he and Krusher bump heads. Teddy Long starts a ten count, which Krusher beats at eight. He then goes after Dusty, who blocks a punch and goes for the elbow, which Krusher blocks. Khrushchev then rakes Dusty's eyes, bodyslams him and goes for the pin. Krusher puts his feet on the ropes for leverage, but Teddy Long misses it. Krusher gets the three count and wins the Television Title, much to the crowd's and Dusty Rhodes's chagrin.

Next, The Legion of Doom, the Road Warriors meet The Midnight Express. The Midnights come to the ring first, looking ready to fight. When the Road Warriors music hits, the two painted warriors storm the ring. Knowing discretion is the better part of valor, Eaton and Condrey hightail it to the floor to calm the mood down. They finally reenter the ring when Tommy Young sends the LOD to their corner. Animal and Eaton start out. The Warriors use their intense hard-hitting power and aerial ability against the Express's scientific moves, dirty tactics and high flying skills. The Road Warriors dominate most of the match, with occasional spurts of control by the Midnight Express. After a period of Midnight control, Animal manages to tag in Hawk after stunning Bobby Eaton with a clothesline. The more muscular Warrior clears house on both Eaton and the now legal Condrey. Animal quickly joins in the fray. Trying to restore order, Tommy Young demands Animal return to his corner. This prompts Jim Cornette to throw his loaded tennis racket in the ring to Condrey. However, Hawk intercepts it and nails "Loverboy" and "Beautiful" Bobby with it as Paul Ellering chases the momma's boy Cornette back to the dressing room. But before Hawk can get rid of the racket, Tommy Young turns around and calls for the DQ, giving The Midnight Express a very tainted win.

Magnum and The Barbarian go at it next. The bigger Barbarian tries to overcome the smaller champion with his sheer power, but Magnum, no stranger to fighting power wrestlers, will not budge. He stands his ground using speed and technical ability to take it to the challenger. As Magnum forges ahead, Paul Jones climbs the ring apron- only for Magnum to punch him down. The Barbarian then charges him, but Magnum meets him with a back body drop. Magnum then hits the belly to belly suplex and retains the United States Championship.

The next match is for the World Tag Team Title. The Rock "n' Roll Express use all their teamwork and highflying to keep the Andersons at bay. A missed Gibson dropkick however, allows the Andersons to gain advantage. They focus on the right arm of Gibson (an Anderson trait) in an attempt to injure or force submission. Gibson though, will not give them that satisfaction. After reversing an Arn Irish whip and connecting with a clothesline, Gibson falls to the mat. With the crowd cheering on, Arn tags Ole ... but Gibson tags in Ricky Morton who promptly cleans house. J.J. Dillon removes a steel tipped loafer from his foot and throws it to Arn. Dillon then jumps on the apron and distracts Earl Hebner. Ricky runs Ole into the ropes setting up for a rollup, but Arn runs toward them and whacks Morton on the head. This allows Ole to reverse it for a rollup of his own. Hebner then seeing the pin, moves for the count. Arn prevents a Gibson save and the Andersons win the World Tag Titles to go along with their National straps.

At intermission, a session runs where Jim Crockett Jr. and Magnum T.A. are talking and announce that there will be an upcoming tournament; the first annual Jim Crockett Sr. Memorial Cup Tag Team Tournament. It will be sponsored by Jim Crockett Promotions and will also have competitors from Mid-South Wrestling and all over the world.  A clip is shown showing Joel Watts, Mid-South owner Bill Watt's son, speaking to Bob Johnson, the executive vice president of the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, where the event will be held.

Ron Garvin and Tully Blanchard have their taped fist match. It is predictably more a street fight than a wrestling match. The rules favor Garvin, "Hands of Stone", but Tully gives not an inch. Garvin eventually knocks Blanchard down and goes for the cover. Teddy Long reaches two, when J.J. Dillon pulls him out the ring. Tony Schiavone and David Crockett both cry foul as the crowd boos profusely.  Garvin goes outside and slugs Dillon. While this is going on, Baby Doll jumps the guard rail and hands Tully a pair of brass knuckles. She quickly exits. Garvin and Long reenter the ring, but Garvin is totally unaware of Tully's weapon and is cold cocked and Tully gets the one-two-three. The devious trio of Tully, Dillon and the now returned Baby Doll celebrate in the ring.

Moments before the main event, Bob Caudle interviews the three Russians. "Gentleman, you already won one title tonight, do you think you will win another?" Caudle asks. Krusher begins "Oh the Politburo is going to be proud. Very proud! After Ivan wins the World Title tonight, the three of us are hopping a plane to Moscow to be greeted by the premier with full honors. Tonight is our night." Krusher responds. "Comrade Krusher is right." Ivan adds. "Tonight, we show average puny Americans just what the superman really is. Tonight I become two-time World Champion. Ric Flair, you have evaded us for too long. No more. Let's go comrades."

Not being a particular good night for fan favorites, the crowd is really hoping for Flair to come through. Predictably, he does not miss a beat, and wrestles a superb match. But, Ivan a skilled, crafty veteran will not be shown up. "The Russian Bear" knows he can win on the big stage and wants to prove the first time was no fluke. He gets several close two counts, but can't keep "The Nature Boy" down for three. After a back-breaker, he attempts a knee drop, but Flair moves out the way at the last second. He then grabs Koloff's legs and drags himself out the ring holding them. He bangs Ivan's left leg against the ring post, then his right, while Tommy Young threatens him with disqualification. He then climbs back in the ring and hits a back drop. A moment later the figure four is locked in. Already injured, Ivan quickly submits and "The Nature Boy" retains his "10 pounds of gold".

To Be Continued...

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[1]            Arn and Ole are not really related. They have been different relatives depending on the time frame. This article has them as Uncle/Nephew. http://www.ddtdigest.com/anderson/introduc.htm However, a video clip closer to this time frame has Ole referring to Arn as his brother http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuWJSid3fC4 (go to 2:20, 4:15 mark) . Based on that, for this story, Ole and Arn are brothers.

[2]            http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l27peN9uWK4

[3]            AWA and NWA/JCP co-promotions were common then. In fact, Flair and Martel really wrestled as partners and against each other in October 1985. http://www.thehistoryofwwe.com/jcp85.htm, Tokyo, Japan - October 21, 1985 NWA World Champion Ric Flair fought AWA World Champion Rick Martel to a double count-out at 34:00 after a crossbody by Flair caused both men to fall over the top to the floor; prior to the bout, the two men shook hands;

[4]            Being that this is Jim Crockett Promotions in late 1985, I had to have one Dusty finish. I promise there will not be another one in this story.

[5]            The Russians defended their tag titles with "Freebird rules".