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Artwork for Regional Rasslin' - Territory Talk
SportsWrestlingTV & FilmTV Reviews

Regional Rasslin' - Territory Talk

Ray Russell / The WrestleCopia Network

Before the national expansion of Pro Wrestling the business was split into many different regional promotions referred to as "the territories". Each territory competed within their own regional boundaries with unqiue wrestling stars, championship belts, and local TV. We talk the good old days from the territory era, from the AWA to JCP, New York to Los Angeles, Memphis to Mid-South, Portland to Florida, Stampede to Maple Leaf, Houston to Dallas, well... you get the point!

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  • 24 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 1 hr 30 min
  • English

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Episodes 24

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  • #151
    Today · 1 hr 45 min

    Rasslin 151: AWA on ESPN September 3rd & 10th, 1985 (Martel vs. Gordy, Roadies Sing!)

    Guest Roman Gomez is back to join host Ray Russell to discuss two weeks of AWA Championship Wrestling on ESPN from September 3rd & 10th, 1985! Rick Martel defends the AWA World Title against Terry Gordy. Greg Gagne and Nick Bockwinkel renew their rivalry, while Ray Stevens and Sgt. Slaughter act as their cornermen. AWA Tag Champs The Road Warriors "sing" before they sit down with Larry Zbyszko "In This Corner". Plus, AWA Light Heavyweight Champ Steve Regal vs. Buck Zumhofe, The Long Riders want another title shot, Jimmy Garvin sets his sights on Martel, Curt Hennig introduces Tom Zenk as his new partner, Boris Zhukov in action, we get a mat classic from Verne Gagne’s retirement match vs. Bockwinkel, a look back at Martel’s title win vs. Jumbo Tsuruta, we discover the identity of "The Blue Max", an early Nailz sighting, Jim Londos in 1985(?), and we get some buildup to SuperClash ’85. If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #150
    September 8 · 1 hr 9 min

    Rasslin 150: Memphis Wrestling July 27, 1985 (Master Blaster, Broken Cages, Title Changes!)

    Another milestone edition of Regional Rasslin' as we reach episode #150! Guest Gene Jackson returns to join Ray Russell as they close out July 1985 in the Memphis Territory! In perhaps the most fun CWA episode yet, the duo share laughs and discussion on the latest in the Memphis world! Find out what happens when Steve Keirn (accidentally) rips off an entire cage wall during a Steel Cage match vs. The Sheepherders! Plus, Jerry Lawler dethrones BOTA for the Southern belt, Phil Hickerson regains the International Title from Terry Taylor, Big John Harris "runs" off Buddy Wayne, The Master Blaster squashes poor David Hasking (twice), Koko Ware is doing 'The Bird', Jarrett & Tojo remember the way they were, Michael Hayes pops in, & much more! The Renesto booking continues on! Come for the history lesson, stay for the fun! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #149
    September 1 · 1 hr 34 min

    Rasslin 149: Georgia History 1957 - 1958 (Thesz/Carpentier NWA World Title Controversy)

    This week, Regional Rasslin' goes back to the Georgia Wrestling History Project. Guest Rick Fields joins Ray Russell to pick up where they left off, discussing more of the late 1950s with the return of Ray Gunkel, the arrival of Dickie Gunkel, Don McIntyre continues to ride high, plus a pair of new evil foreign menace teams in the Von Brauners & Volkoffs, Fred Blassie, & so much more! Plus, we'll spend the first half of the program discussing the controversial NWA World Title Match between Lou Thesz vs. Edouard Capentier, and how it led to two men claiming the World Championship at the same time, the many regional promotions creating their own "World Champions", and the fallout it caused between the NWA and many of the territories of the time. If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #148
    August 25 · 1 hr 43 min

    Rasslin 148: Georgia 7/3 - 7/10/82 (Omni Spectacular! Backlund vs. Flair! Muraco vs. Dusty!)

    This time on the Regional Rasslin', Jammie Ward joins Ray Russell to talk Georgia Wrestling for July 1982! It's the Fourth of the July at the Omni featuring NWA World Champion Ric Flair vs. WWF Champion Bob Backlund! Plus, Roddy Piper banned from TBS studios but finds a loophole to return to the airwaves, Don Muraco searches for the "big white shark" Dusty Rhodes (who has the 'Eye of the Tiger', if you will), Orndorff vs, Snuka, the Freebirds vs. Wild Samoans, Wrestling #2 vs. Masked Superstar, Ole Anderson, Stan Hansen, Ivan Putski, Tommy Rich, Buzz Sawyer, Sonny King's lollipop, & much more! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #147
    August 18 · 1 hr 27 min

    Rasslin 147: The Florida 1980 Project Begins! (Guest Harold Strassler)

    The long-awaited Florida Territory Project of 1980 on Regional Rasslin' finally begins as CWF Superfan Harold Strassler joins Ray Russell to set the stage by discussing many of the talents from 1979 that take us into the new year. Some of the names discussed include Dusty Rhodes, Don Muraco, Leroy Brown, Oliver Humperdink, Manny Fernandez, Saito, Stan Lane/Bryan St. John, Super Destroyer (Scott Irwin), Jimmy Garvin, Sato (Kabuki), Bugsy McGraw, Sonny King, Ox Baker, Reggie Parks, Sweet Brown Sugar, Bobo Brazil, & much more! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #146
    August 11 · 1 hr 26 min

    Rasslin 146: Southeastern Wrestling's Final Days (6/8/85)

    Regional Rasslin' returns with a special edition as Alabama superfan Aaron Gartlan joins host Ray Russell to relive the unforgettable final days of Southeastern Championship Wrestling, culminating with the historic June 8, 1985 television episode before the promotion officially became Continental Wrestling. Aaron brings outstanding insight from both sides of the "guardrail", breaking down the action in the ring while sharing behind-the-scenes business stories, firsthand memories of watching SECW TV, and attending live events with friends at the Houston County Farm Center. We also revisit the impact of stars like Ron Fuller, Bob Armstrong, the RAT Patrol, Lord Humongous, The Flame, Austin Idol, and more as we celebrate one of the most fascinating turning points in territorial wrestling history. If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #145
    August 4 · 1 hr 13 min

    Rasslin 145: Henry Rogers - Malden, Missouri Promotion (Part 1)

    Steve Crawford returns to Regional Rasslin with Host Ray Russell to discuss the outlaw promotion ran by Henry Rogers in Malden, Missouri! In Part One of the series, they talk the early days of Rogers as a promoter in the 1960s. We discuss the early association with Gulas & Welch, moving from Malden to Hayti, then Hayti back to Malden, the various names that came through the territory in the early days, the first note of TV, a tragedy blended into the weekly storylines, and various other odds and ends from that period in wrestling history. If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #144
    July 28 · 1 hr 40 min

    Rasslin 144: St. Louis Wrestling History Part 4 (1952 - 1953: TV Era Begins, Piledriver Reinstated)

    Guest Phil Adams is back to join host Ray Russell as they discuss 1952/1953 in the St. Louis Wrestling History Project as part of Regional Rasslin'! St. Louis wrestling enters one of the most important turning points in its history as Sam Muchnick's promotion begins evolving into the modern television era. We'll look back at the legendary NWA World Heavyweight Championship clashes between Lou Thesz and Wild Bill Longson, the rise of Hans Schmidt as the territory's first true monster heel attraction, and the booking philosophy that forever changed the business. Plus, we'll dive into the launch of weekly television on KSD-TV in 1953, a gamble that helped shape St. Louis into one of wrestling's most influential cities. It's a fascinating look at the stories, stars, and business decisions that helped build the foundation of professional wrestling as we know it today. If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #143
    July 21 · 1 hr 39 min

    Rasslin 143: AWA Championship Wrestling 8/27/85 (Slaughter, Freebirds, Road Warriors, Garvin)

    This week on Regional Rasslin', we get the ball rolling with the AWA on ESPN project, After a super fun debut edition where we set the stage, this week we dive into the very first episode of AWA Championship Wrestling from August 27, 1985 taped at Atlantic City's Tropicana Hotel & Casino! Guest Roman Gomez joins host Ray Russell to discuss Sgt. Slaughter and his Americas Title vs. the debuting evil foreign Russian menace known as Boris Zhukov. Plus, 6-Man action with the Fabulous Freebirds vs. Curt Hennig, Tom Zenk, & Buck Zumhofe, Tag Champs The Road Warriors vs. Bill & Scott Irwin, Larry Zbyszko debuts his Talk Show segment "In This Corner" with Guest AWA Champ Rick Martel (but why is Larry Nelson there?), RAMBO Greg Gagne steps in the ring vs. Kahlua, "Gorgeous" Jimmy Garvin & Precious return from "suspension", we discuss the dangers of the Sleeper hold, Verne Gagne pats himself on the back, Nick Bockwinkel & Ray Stevens speak, and much more! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #142
    July 14 · 1 hr 45 min

    Rasslin 142: Georgia Wrestling 1955 - 1957 (Graham, Blassie, McIntyre, More!)

    This week on Regional Rasslin', it's a look into more Georgia Wrestling history courtesy of host Ray Russell and Guest Rick Fields. Talking the years of 1955 - 1957. In this era, Georgia wrestling took a major step forward as the promotion began bringing in nationally recognized stars from Chicago and the DuMont television network while introducing fans to increasingly wild gimmick matches like Indian Strap Matches, Texas Death Matches, Boxing bouts, and even "mask vs. loser leave town" encounters. Jerry Graham remained one of the promotion's top heels, while the fierce rivalry between Freddie Blassie and the McIntyre brothers became the backbone of the territory. During this period, Georgia also expanded its touring schedule well beyond Atlanta, establishing a regular loop of towns that helped grow wrestling across the entire state. Plus, Augusta gets its own TV, and a steady parade of legendary names passed through including Lou Thesz, Buddy Rogers, Argentina Rocca, Verne Gagne, Dick the Bruiser, Bull Curry, the Lewin Brothers, and many others. We'll follow the Southern Championship lineage, the top rivalries, the expansion of the territory, and the foundation being laid for what would soon become one of wrestling's premier promotions. We set the stage for a deveopment that will take place in 1957 which leads to promoter Paul Jones and the ABC Booking company leaving the NWA. If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #141
    July 7 · 1 hr 15 min

    Rasslin 141: Memphis Wrestling July 20, 1985 (The Birdman's In Town, Lawler's Karate Kick)

    The summer of 1985 continues on as Guest Gene Jackson joins host Ray Russell to discuss another week in the Memphis territory, talking July 20th - 26th. Between the lack of overall talent depth and the outdated booking of Tom Renesto, it can be "hard times" for the CWA fans right now, but there are some bright spots. As Norvell Austin leaves the territory his partner Koko Ware turns babyface and debuts his "Birdman" character, Jerry Lawler apparently learns karate, Terry Taylor wins.. then loses the International Title, Bota the Witchdoctor continues his Southern Title reign vs. David Haskins in a cluster-mess of a match, Big John Harris is making the rounds on the house shows, the duo of Jerry Jarrett & Tojo Yamamoto continue their "The Way We Were" tour, praise to Phil Hickerson, Tom Branch in action (nepotism at its finest), and more! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #140
    June 30 · 1 hr 34 min

    Rasslin 140: Georgia Wrestling June 1982 (New Champions Crowned, Muraco Unmasked)

    Jammie Ward returns to join host Ray Russell as they discuss another THREE WEEKS of Georgia Championship Wrestling from June 1982! Tons of topics this week including Paul Orndorff winning the National Heavyweight Title from Buzz Sawyer, The Freebirds crowned as the NEW National Tag Team Champions, Dr. X unmasked as Don Muraco, Roddy Piper hires bounty hunters to take out Tommy Rich & Dusty Rhodes, Steve O reappears (again), Stan Hansen is back in Georgia, & much more! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #139
    June 23 · 1 hr 37 min

    Rasslin 139: Chicago Wrestling History 1969 & 1970 (Chain Gang, Vachons, Baron, More!)

    Guest Richard Vicek returns to Regional Rasslin' to discuss more Chicago Wrestling history with host Ray Russell. This week, we dive into two very important years in the growth of the CWC as we look at 1969 and 1970. Topics include the giant Comiskey Park event in the summer of 1970, the Chain Gang arrive and wreak havoc vs. Crusher & Bruiser, the real-life Hells Angels biker gang shooting Frank Dillinger and forcing his leg to be amputated, Chris Colt replacing Frank in the Chain Gang, Bobby Heenan's cleverness in his battles with Dick the Bruiser, Mad Dog & Butcher Vachon taking over the tag team scene, the unmasking of Dr. X (Dick Beyer), the arrival of Jim Valen (Jimmy Valiant) and Bob Windham (Blackjack Mulligan), promoter Fred Kohler passes away, Baron Von Raschke's big push towards AWA Champ Verne Gagne, Da Crusher's random absences, Angelo Poffo's shoot job, and so much more! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #138
    June 16 · 1 hr 43 min

    Rasslin 138: St. Louis Wrestling History Part 3 (1950 - 1952)

    The St. Louis Wrestling Project continues as Phil Adams returns, joining host Ray Russell as they begin to discuss the 1950s. Sam Muchnick now has TWO St. Louis Wrestling promotions, but continues to use them as separate entities. We look at the early NWA Title defenses of Lou Thesz, Wild Bill Longson's last big run, Wladek "Killer" Kowalski makes a big name for himself, Buddy Rogers shines in the main event picture, while Gene Stanlee later TRIES to replace Buddy's "spot" on the card. We talk the "outdoor" experiment for the summer of 1950 that led to Muchnick going seasonal. We also discuss riots, booking tropes, "handicap" matches, gimmick wrestlers, the mighty midgets, big gates, small gates, legends like the Duseks, up-and-comers like Freddie Blassie, and other great talent like Bobby Managoff, Enrique Torres, Whipper Watson, and so much more! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #137
    June 9 · 1 hr 26 min

    Rasslin 137: The AWA on ESPN (Setting the Stage!)

    Familiar Guest Roman Gomez returns to Regional Rasslin, as he joins host Ray Russell to set the stage for the upcoming AWA on ESPN Project. The two go back in time a couple years to discuss the infancy of Hulkamania and how the AWA dropped the ball, Verne Gagne's inability to change with the times, Greg Gagne's many claims at what led to business woes, the many talents that came through during the post-Hogan (pre-ESPN) era, Pro Wrestling USA, Roman attending several events in Las Vegas, the Champions of 1985, The Road Warriors impact, Sgt. Slaughter's return, RAMBO Greg Gagne, how the ESPN/AWA deal came about, & much more! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #136
    June 2 · 1 hr 18 min

    Rasslin 136: Memphis Wrestling 7/13/85 (Bota And The Rat!)

    This week on Regional Rasslin, Guest Gene Jackson joins host Ray Russel to continue their way through Memphis 1985, now covering the week of July 13th. With Dave Brown away on vacation, Lance Russell goes solo as Tom Branch takes over managerial duties of Bota the Witchdoctor after it appears Bota has transformed former manager Leslie Floyd Creatchman III into a rat! Plus, The PYT turn face while Buddy Wayne gets personal, the Fabulous Ones/Sheepherders feud continues on, the Knight Riders team arrives (and leaves), Big John Harris steps into the arenas, Phil Hickerson is your new International Champion.. until he's not, Man Mountain Link is back and so is the Mid-America Title, Tojo & Jerry Jarrett continue to team, we get a look at the new (but maybe not improved) version of Bill Smithson & Terry Adonis, who are the "Midnight Connection"(?), & more! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #135
    May 26 · 1 hr 27 min

    Rasslin 135: Georgia Wrestling May/June 1982 (Freebirds Reunite, Dr. X Unmasked, Flair's Gift!)

    It's Regional Rasslin' #135 looking at late May and early June of 1982 in the Georgia territory. Jammie Ward returns with host Ray Russell to talk the reuniting of the Fabulous Freebirds (Terry Gordy & Michael Hayes) after a year apart! Plus, Ric Flair has a surprise for Leroy Brown, Masked Superstar & Mr. Wrestling #2 rekindle their feud, Roddy Piper takes exception to Tommy Rich's comments, the mysterious Dr. X has arrived, Buzz Sawyer takes out Kevin Sullivan, Paul Orndorff prepares for a National Title shot, & much more! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #134
    May 19 · 1 hr 33 min

    Rasslin 134: Georgia Wrestling 1953 - 1955 (Graham's Push, Early TV, Screwjobs, & More!)

    This week on Regional Rasslin', Guest Rick Fields is back as he joins host Ray Russell to continue the discusson of Georgia Wrestling history. As they work their way to the Georgia War of the early 1970s, the duo take a look at some of the happenings building up to that era. Topics discussed this week cover 1953 - 1955 and include talk of interesting booking patterns, the June Byers/Mildred Burke "screwjob", the lack of World Title defenses, Georgia's first Wrestling TV program, the introduction of the Southern Title, Don & Red McIntyre, Jackie Fargo, The Swedish Angel, Verne Gagne, Gorgeous George, Buddy Rogers, Johnny Valentine, Jerry Graham, Baron Leone, Argentina Rocca, Fred Blassie, Pat O'Connor, Ray Villmer, Ida Mae Martinez, Cora Combs, the Mighty Midgets, & much more! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #133
    May 12 · 1 hr 17 min

    Rasslin 133: Chicago Wrestling 1967 & 1968 (Gagne vs. Dr. X, Hennig/Race vs. Crusher/Bruiser)

    Richard Vicek returns to Regional Rasslin to join Ray Russell as they discuss two more years of Chicago Wrestling Club history, covering the full years of 1967 & 1968. Including the first ever sellout crowd in Chicago, the legendary feuds between Dr. X vs. Verne Gagne and the tag feud of Larry Hennig & Harley Race vs. Dick the Bruiser & Da' Crusher, the makings of Blackjack Lanza, Bill Watts, the Japanese duo of Mitsu Arakawa & Mr. Moto, early Mighty Igor, Rock Rogowski (Ole Anderson), Bobby Heenan, & more! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

  • #132
    May 5 · 1 hr 33 min

    Rasslin 132: St. Louis Wrestling History Part 2 (1923 - 1950, Tom Packs, Thesz, Muchnick)

    This week, Ray Russell is joined by Phil Adams to continue the discussion on the early years of pro wrestling in St. Louis. Topics this week cover the years of 1923 through 1950 as Tom Packs takes over as promoter for John Contos and has a successful 25 years on top before his side habits force him to sell. From there, they dive into the business split between Packs and his right-hand man Sam Muchnick, the early issues Sam encountered when trying to run opposition, the Mississippi Valley Sports Club taking over, the various owner stakes in St. Louis that ranged from Lou Thesz to Wild Bill Longson, the secret merger that wasn't exposed for nearly a decade, Muchnick's eventual "victory" as THE promoter of the St. Louis territory and his subsequent rise to President of the NWA, and so much more! If you're enjoying WrestleCopia and interested in helping us continue to grow, please consider Subscribing to our Patreon to help us cover some of our costs! https://www.patreon.com/wrestlecopia YOU CAN ALSO GIFT SOMEONE A PATREON MEMBERSHIP (OR ASK THEM TO GIFT YOU ONE) AT https://www.patreon.com/WrestleCopia/gift Includes the $5 “All Access” Tier $9 "VIP Superfan" Tier, and "The ULLLTIMATE Tier", featuring our various VIDEO-CAST Series, Early Show Releases, our insanely detailed show notes (for the Grenade, Monday Warfare, Regional Rasslin, Puro Academy, & Retro Re-View), monthly DIGITAL DOWNLOADS for your viewing and reading pleasure, & more! HELP SUPPORT THE SELF-FUNDED WRESTLECOPIA BRAND, CONSIDER DONATING TO OUR PAYPAL WRESTLECOPIA MERCHANDISE - https://www.teepublic.com/user/wrestlecopia Visit the WrestleCopia Podcast Network https://wrestlecopia.com Follow WrestleCopia on “X” (Formerly Twitter) @RasslinGrenade Follow & LIKE our FACEBOOK PAGE – https://www.facebook.com/RasslinGrenade Subscribe to the WrestleCopia Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/RasslinGrenade ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

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