J\/\/s Wrestling Memorabilia

Wrestling MarketWatch: The Hall of Famers

2012-01-26T21:28:00.012-05:00

In the recurring "Wrestling MarketWatch" series we try to combine the latest going rates for various collectibles with a common theme. What better, and timely, theme this week than Hall of Famers?

Just because a Hall of Fame superstar is on an item doesn't necessarily mean that it will become valuable, but it's certainly fun to see what people are willing to pay for certain collectibles. As always, I remind you that just because an item brings in a certain amount of money one time doesn't mean that it will do the same in the future. Remember, collect for you...not for your wallet.

I also ask that you keep in mind that the items shown are from my own collection and some are autographed. The prices listed were for unsigned examples unless otherwise noted.

*What better way to start than with items that could be in a Hall of Fame themselves--a toy Hall of Fame, that is. To many, the WWF LJN line is the ultimate wrestling figure series. It's certainly one of the earliest, contains many of the most beloved names ever to enter the squared circle, and the sheer size and presentation of the figures makes them stand above all others.

Values have remained somewhat steady for the line for about twenty years now. Loose common figures (Piper, Volkoff, Sheik) go for very little while any carded example rarely goes for less than $40. Some figures in the line have the potential to sell for well over $1,000.

Figures of two Hall of Famers recently caught my attention as far as auction price. Carded examples of Harley Race and Jimmy Snuka recently sold for $204.49 and $199.99 respectively. While both have always been sought after, it seems that "The King" and "Superfly" are in extra demand as of late. It should be noted that the cardback of the Snuka figure was "unpunched." The early LJN figures had a small piece of cardboard that had to be "punched" out in order for them to be displayed on peg hooks in retail stores. Later figures, like Race, had the more common "j-hook." If these early figures still have the extra piece of cardboard, as small as it is, this can be a factor in pricing.

*"Superfly" seems to have found his way onto many desirable items. The very first issue of WWF Victory Magazine (the magazine that WWE claims was their first in-house publication, although as I've informed you, it wasn't) features Snuka performing one of his magnificent leapfrogs over the equally magnificent Don Muraco. These early publications are fun and show a time when the WWF wasn't yet against acknowledging other stars and promotions even though the company was well into the infamous "expansion" era. The magazine, with its iconic cover and full color and gloss, recently sold for $43.

*Back in the world of action figures, we stay classic yet get a little more recent in terms of production. Last year the Hall of Fame welcomed the one and only Sunny. While I did not get to attend the induction in Atlanta, I did get to share in the glory of the one who gets what she wants. Sunny days aside, one of the last "1 of 100" limited figures in the Jakks WWE Classic Superstars line was of the original Diva herself. Equipped with the tag team titles, Sunny is decked out in her cowgirl outfit worn while she managed The Smoking Gunns to the belts. Out of all of the figures limited to 100 in the line, this one is still probably the most undervalued. The figure recently sold for $173.99 and I have a feeling that it will only go up in value. After all, she knows you want her.

On the other end of the spectrum of blondes, we bring you another Hall of Famer with golden hair and packaged with a tag team championship. This would happen to be one of my favorite competitors who is well into his fourth decade in the ring, none other than Greg "The Hammer" Valentine. I've always felt that this figure was one of the most underrated in the line. Not only is it the best likeness we've ever seen of Valentine in figure form, but it also includes his most recognizable robe. An autographed version recently sold for just $17. A steal of a deal considering that it would cost more to obtain the figure at this point and then have the figure autographed.

*There's nothing I'd rather end this installment with than by giving you the bird. Yes, Koko is in the Hall of Fame, but that's not the bird that I had in mind. Albeit a bit early in my eyes, Stone Cold Steve Austin is indeed in the Hall of Fame. He certainly belongs in any wrestling Hall of Fame due to his impact on the business for a few short years. Heck, if I were ever to begin a wrestling memorabilia Hall of Fame he'd deserve his own wing. Who wasn't wearing an "Austin 3:16" shirt in 1998? If you gave someone "the bird" back in the same time period, chances are it was much better received if you were wearing Stone Cold's foam bird on your hand. Hogan had "yellow fingah." Austin had "black bird." Cena has "purple okay sign." What comes next? Regardless, Austin's finger recently sold for $20 and I can only see this price going up as the years go by. Hold onto those "3:16" shirts, too.

There you have it. A variety of items for a variety of budgets featuring a variety of Hall of Fame superstars. Variety is the spice of life. Remember to check out our Facebook Fanpage for galleries of hundreds of wrestling collectibles and our Twitter feed for the latest blog updates!

The Hall of Fame-Bound Horsemen

2012-01-19T18:32:00.010-05:00

Around this time of year there is always plenty to discuss in the world of wrestling. Who will show up in the Royal Rumble? Who will headline WrestleMania? Who will enter the WWE Hall of Fame?

As I've said many times before, I enjoy the WWE Hall of Fame for what it is. It's an extremely political yearly tribute to stars from the past. If you take it as such you may just enjoy it. For the most part, those who are in it tend to brag about it. Even some who are not in it would love to be. Sure, it's a payday and a small reunion with some old co-workers. For the fans, it's a chance to see those stars on the grandest stage of all one more time.

Although we will discuss selected other 2012 WWE Hall of Fame inductees in the weeks to come, the announcement of the induction of The Four Horsemen is more than worthy of its own entry.

While overly justified, the announcement seemed to "break all the rules" in the minds of fans. A group being inducted? Which version of the Horsemen? Ric Flair inducted twice? Isn't Ric Flair under contact to TNA?

Certainly tag teams and families have been previously inducted, but the induction of a group is a totally different ballgame. The Horsemen had quite a few different members in the span of about a decade. The original lineup included Flair, Arn Anderson, Tully Blanchard, Ole Anderson, and JJ Dillon as manager. Perhaps the most remembered and celebrated roster was actually the third which included Barry Windham (who had replaced Lex Luger who had in turn replaced Ole).

It doesn't take a brain surgeon to figure out that the Windham version is the one most likely to be celebrated by WWE. Even before airing their video package which highlighted this incarnation, most fans know that Ole Anderson wants nothing to do with WWE and WWE most likely wants nothing to do with Ole Anderson.

Anderson is, in my opinion, a very misunderstood man. People who are opinionated often get a bad rap. It doesn't necessarily mean that they're bad people. It simply means that they have strong opinions and are unable to waver on them. Ole Anderson is very opinionated and censors himself for no one. That's simply the way he is. Bruno Sammartino is similar in many respects but has a beloved hero aura about him that brings out his endearing side. Believe it or not, Ole does have an endearing side. He just doesn't choose to show it and would probably rather be thought of as the "grumpy old man."

As much as an oversight as it is for WWE not to mention Ole, even if he is overlooked by his Horsemen partners at the ceremony, it's not going to be the end of the world for him. Aside from having a ring, WWE is about as far away from Ole's idea of wrestling as one could get. On the flip side of the coin, there's a much better chance that the members of the "WWE Universe" are going to know who Barry Windham is. We've learned in the past that if WWE feels that their "Universe" doesn't know who someone is and there's no financial stake in teaching them, that person simply isn't going to be presented no matter the role. This is the factual reason as to why William Shatner inducted Jerry Lawler rather than The King's choice of Memphis announcing legend Lance Russell.

As for who WILL be present for the ceremony, Arn Anderson, Blanchard, and Dillon seem to be a lock. Windham is still recovering from health problems suffered last fall although not enough is known on his present condition to even speculate about an appearance. The true question marks in this category all lie with "The Nature Boy" himself.

When cornered by a fan at a recent autograph signing, Flair claimed that he would indeed be accepting the induction on stage at the ceremony. Assuming that he is still under contract with TNA would make this a landmark event. Although Flair was in the audience at the 2011 ceremony, WWE was very careful to catch him on camera as little as possible.

Certainly his TNA run has done him no favors regarding personal financial issues. Whether or not being back with WWE would change that or even be possible remains to be seen. One way or another it seems that we will be seeing Ric Flair involved in the world of professional wrestling until the day he dies.

Inducting the Horsemen is ultimately a landmark event. It pleases old school fans while re-introducing a concept that all fans, new and old, should be aware of. Fans of newer entities such as the nWo and DX need to know where the roots for such "super groups" were planted. This also opens up a floodgate of new ideas for the WWE Hall of Fame. Just when WWE seems to be tricking itself by inducting stars within a year of their retirement, the company finds a way to RE-INDUCT stars such as Flair and others in the future like Shawn Michaels (DX) and Bret Hart (The Hart Foundation). As much as the company is criticized for bad decisions (most of the time rightly so), they do seem to have a think tank with its target being the almighty dollar.

Last year at this time I was sworn to secrecy, but thanks to a member of the 2011 class I knew exactly who all was going to be inducted. Although I don't have such information this year (and if I did...), I'm still hoping for another team to be announced. If they are, we'll be celebrating right here in the next few weeks. They certainly deserve it. After all, pain and destruction is their middle name.

Let's Rumble...Hasbro Style

2012-01-12T19:37:00.011-05:00

Right now is one of the best times of the year to be a wrestling fan. Even if you're a member of the "WWE Universe" rather than being an actual fan of wrestling, you can appreciate the one event that unifies fans from the '80s, '90s, and today. Although WrestleMania seems to get weaker as the years go by, the Royal Rumble continues to deliver as it did in its infancy.

Ax and Smash entering as #1 and #2. Luger and Hart tumbling over the top rope at the same time. Ric Flair winning his first WWF Championship. Men like Shawn Michaels, Rey Mysterio Jr., and (gasp) Chris Benoit proving that even smaller stars could make it through the other 29 participants. These are the moments that have defined the Royal Rumble. Most of the top names of the past thirty years have at least one Rumble appearance under their belt. Looking through lists of each years participants can be like viewing 30 Hall of Fame-caliber superstars all in one single match.

The Rumble has had its share of prominence in the world of merchandise as well. Programs, videos, video games, and action figures have all been released using the Royal Rumble banner, which next to WrestleMania may be the most remembered and recognizable in the WWF pay-per-view lineup. In terms of both collectibility and infamy, there is one Royal Rumble item that stands above all the rest.

Let's go back to 1992. Hasbro was running full force with their famous WWF action figure line. The 5 inch tall figures, each with "Real Wrestling Action," were fun to play with and collect. As with any popular action figure line, the toy company will look down other avenues to add additional products to their hot licensee.

During the summer of '92, three packs of four mini WWF figures began to appear in stores. These figures were only a couple of inches tall and were non-poseable, mini versions of the larger Hasbro WWF figures and each was molded to a silver stand. Roddy Piper, Hacksaw Jim Duggan, Texas Tornado, and Mr. Perfect made up one set while another included The Legion of Doom and The Natural Disasters. The Bushwhackers, Brutus Beefcake, and Greg Valentine rounded out the third pack. The figures were released to coincide with a WWF Royal Rumble ring which would include figures of Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, Big Boss Man, Jake "The Snake" Roberts, Ted DiBiase, and Sgt. Slaughter.

The toy was fun, the figures were cool little representations of the larger figures, but the entire idea was plagued by a much larger problem. The centerpiece of the idea, the ring, was only available for a small window of time. While the three figure packs were available at many different retailers, the ring playset itself only seemed to show up at Toys "R" Us stores in a short period of time very early in the 1992 Christmas buying season. Aside from reports I've heard in more recent years of the set appearing at Toy Liquidators, this shipment may have been the only one.

The limited time to purchase the toy resulted in two things: the individual figure packs sat on shelves (collecting dust at Hills stores until the late '90s) since most kids had nothing to use them with while prices for the ring itself soared on the secondary market. Although examples have been known to sell for as much as $500, a price range of $250-$300 should be expected for most open pieces.

Prices aside, the Royal Rumble ring is truly a unique and fun toy. The ring itself is elevated on a light blue plastic platform to allow two hand controlled plungers to be placed halfway under. When pounded with a fist, the plunger hits the mat causing the figures to "rumble." The playset includes six rounded metal bases which fit onto the bottom of the silver bases molded onto the figures. The metal bases are hard to remove from the figures. I wouldn't really advise putting them on today, as it can take as much as a screw driver to pry them off. The figures will still "rumble" without them, although they might not fly over the top rope as originally intended.

Speaking of the figures, they may just be the highlight of the entire deal. As previously mentioned, the figures are replicas of their larger Hasbro counterparts. The Randy Savage figure is of particular interest as the paint deco transforms the figure released twice in the larger Hasbro line (as both Macho King and Macho Man) into a longer "tights" version that never saw a bigger "brother." Also of note is the Brutus Beefcake figure which features pinkish purple decor opposite its larger counterpart that has a black, white, and red motif.

The box art is a lot of fun, too. The Big Boss Man figure is depicted on the box featuring the head of the first Hasbro Boss Man and the body of the second. Savage is depicted on the box as having the short purple trunks that the larger figure has.

As to why the ring wasn't widely available is a question that has been debated but never completed unraveled. It's possible that Hasbro wasn't satisfied with the reaction to the separate figure packs and decided to stop production of the ring. Another theory is that due to the difficult of removing the metal bases production was halted and simply never restarted. The possibilities are endless, but those that own the toy enjoy it as a fun and unique entry in the Hasbro WWF world.

Twelve figures that should also be mentioned here weren't even produced by Hasbro or licensed by the WWF. Around the same time that the licensed mini figures were produced, a bootleg set appeared in discount stores around the world. The figures appear to depict Hogan, Savage, DiBiase, Boss Man, Roberts, Beefcake, Duggan, The Bushwhackers, The Ultimate Warrior, Jimmy Snuka, and Akeem. Despite being unlicensed, the figures are too nice to be ignored and actually fit quite well into the Hasbro Rumble ring. The Snuka figure is, in my opinion, one of the coolest looking figures ever made of "Superfly." The set continued to show up well into the mid '90s and I even recall seeing them marketed as cake toppers at one point.

In either instance, these are toys that truly capture the colorful and fun days when the Royal Rumble was taking its place as a yearly tradition. Thankfully, the event itself continues to remind fans of those days with its unpredictability, fast paced action, and memorable appearances.

It's time to RRRRRRRRRRRRumble!

All Points Lead To "A"...And "A" Is For "Alberto"

2012-01-05T20:40:00.011-05:00

A new year and a fresh start. There are many reasons why this is the first blog entry of the year. It's a new beginning and if you're going by the alphabet, you start with the letter "A." "A" can be for Alberto Del Rio. The Royal Rumble is held in January and Alberto was the 2011 winner. Alberto also has a popular new action figure. As a result of the entry on the Von Erich action figures last month, this entry was delayed until now. That would be the actual reason you're getting this entry now, but that's not exciting. We'll go with "A" is for "Alberto."

Del Rio has become one of WWE's top heels over the past year and a half. A mixture of two styles of wrestling heel, those being the foreigner and rich man, it's almost a given that Del Rio would have success as a villain. Perhaps it's his heritage that gives him the push over the top.

Del Rio's father is Mexican wrestling legend Dos Caras while his uncle is 2012 WWE Hall of Fame inductee (and Bill Apter's favorite wrestler) Mil Mascaras. While both men have had remarkable in-ring careers, it is Mascaras who at one point was probably as big a name in the United States as Rey Mysterio Jr. is today. In addition to countless magazine cover appearances in the 1970's, Mascaras was a popular figure in the WWWF, especially in Madison Square Garden.

Although masked at one point, Del Rio differs from the rest of his family in that he has made his name largely without the mask. Since beginning with WWE in dark matches under his original ring name of Dos Caras Jr., Del Rio's looks have only helped his heel demeanor.

As with most new stars, their "rookie" action figures have the tendency to fly off of shelves. Del Rio had two "basic" style figures released almost simultaneously thus making him easier to find. Many collectors waited for the "Elite" figure which is our topic of discussion today.

Although at a higher price point, Mattel's "Elite" WWE figures include more articulation and accessories. In Del Rio's case, the scarf accessory has become as much of a trademark as his father and uncle's masks are. The scarf included with this figure is a full fabric accessory that drapes perfectly on the shoulders of the figure. Also included is a masked chihuahua dog which Del Rio used to mock Mysterio.

With the added articulation comes my personal most hated feature--the torso joint. I'll be honest when I say that this feature is starting to grow on me. While I'd prefer it not to be there, it's simply not bothering me as much as it originally did.

The face on Del Rio is perfect, capturing the heelish smirk and truly bringing the character to life. This is important on a figure such as Del Rio where the ring gear is rather bland. Truth be told, Del Rio lacks in colorful ring outfits where his uncle and father flourished. Two tattoos on Del Rio's shoulder blades complete the detail.

The scarf and dog add a lot to the figure. The "Basic" figures of Del Rio are fairly unexciting and have been sitting on shelves. This "Elite" figure seems to be more popular and is in a series that includes "Classic" Kane, Papa Shango, and Daniel Bryan among others. The price point on these figures averages around $15. It seems a bit steep, but certainly if there is a must-have character for you in the lineup, it's a price that you'll pay. In all honesty, you're paying for the additions of accessories.

This is probably the nicest representation of Del Rio that we'll get. There isn't too much more that you can do with him in future releases although I feel that a glaring omission is Ricardo Rodriguez. If Jakks were still producing the WWE line I have a feeling that Del Rio's debut would've been in a 2-pack with his long suffering ring announcer. Mattel is less than proactive on the production of side characters.

And thus begins 2012 on the blog! If last year was any indication, we're in for a fun ride. As always I'm looking for your feedback in any of the avenues that I've previously mentioned. Happy New Year!

Oliver, Randy, & Donna: 2011 Goodbyes

2011-12-29T20:43:00.007-05:00

As 2011 comes to a close we all reflect on the year that it was. Like any other year, 2011 was one full of ups and downs. It's part of life, as is the finality of death. Wrestling fans know that fact all too well.

With death usually comes a celebration of life. We reflect on all the positives that the person who has passed provided in our lives. With the passings of those in the pro wrestling community, we are lucky that many of those positive memories are forever preserved.

2011 saw the loss of wrestlers and personalities including Killer Karl Kox, Little Tokyo, "Handsome" Johnny Barend, Scott LeDoux, Terry Yorkston, Bison Smith, Tiki Tapu, and Big Val Puccio.

Three other stars affected me the most personally.

Early in the year legendary manager Sir Oliver Humperdink announced that he was diagnosed with cancer. Although the prognosis was serious, those that knew "Hump" realized that if anyone was spirited enough to beat the disease it was he. Sadly, this was not to be. Said to be comforted and content in his final days, the man known as "SOH" passed away on March 19 at age 62.

While 62 is far too young to pass in this day and age, anyone who ever encountered Oliver knows that he enjoyed life to the fullest and probably did more living than many people in 62 years. His contributions to the business that he loved will always be remembered. The outpouring of love and memories following his death is ample proof of that. A true champion of life...Sir Oliver Humperdink.

Just two months later fans were mourning the loss of one of the biggest names in wrestling and pop culture as a whole. On May 20 many fans were sitting down to lunch when news broke of the death of Randy "Macho Man" Savage. A heart attack felled the reclusive former world champion while he was driving in his home state of Florida.

Although he made very few appearances in the past decade, Savage never left the consciousness of fans worldwide. His distinctive voice, outfits, and wrestling style have been lovingly parodied for years, but there always be only one "Macho Man" Randy Savage.

The end of summer brought the most difficult wrestling passing in 2011 for me personally. On August 25, women's wrestling legend Donna Christanello passed away suddenly at her home. I've written a lot about Donna and I don't know that there was ever a wrestler who deserved it more.

Although her name has been relatively out of the spotlight for the past two decades except among aficionados of '70s wrestling, it was a great comfort to many that Donna received so much coverage upon her passing. She certainly was remembered and I hope that she knew that. Knowing what a humble lady she was, I'm not sure that it would've mattered to her. Family and friends were number one in her life. How can you top that?

I miss my friend, but I'm still honored that I'm just able to label her as such. She was a friend to everyone. An amazing in-ring worker and probably the most underrated women's star of all-time. If you haven't already taken my advice, check out some of her matches on YouTube. In my last controversial statement of the year, I will go as far as to say that she did the Moolah shtick better than Moolah did it. Donna would never admit that. The two considered each other sisters.

The last time that I saw Donna, she told me that no matter how busy she was at work I was always to interrupt her and say "Hi." I know that she's busy enjoying her great reward, but along with my other loved ones who are now departed, I take the time to say "Hi" every day. Donna, you are missed daily by all who knew you, yet somehow we know that you're watching over us.

This is but a small listing of those who passed in 2011 that made a contribution in wrestling. We fondly remember all of them and may they all rest in peace.

The 2011 J\/\/ Awards

2011-12-22T01:38:00.013-05:00

So you sat through that Slammy Awards deal a few weeks ago, eh? Here on the blog we give out a different type of honor this time of year, that being The J\/\/ Awards. The honors began in 2010 and each year the design of the "Joshie" award has a bit of a different flavor. While in the inaugural year the award had a "classy" flare to it, this year we've said our prayers and taken our vitamins thus bringing you somewhat of an "immortal" look.

In 2011 not only does the look of the award itself change, but so do some of the categories. While Best Product Line, Best Figure, and Future Holy Grail all remain intact, two of our other awards will go under a bit of a makeover. The Best Magazine and Best Cards awards have been changed to Best Publication and Best Buy (Non-Figure/Publication) respectively. Since fewer and fewer wrestling cards and magazines are being produced each year this greatly widens the span of products under consideration. Now any book, magazine, or similar material will go up against each other for Best Publication while virtually anything that a fan can purchase will vie for Best Buy (Non-Figure/Publication).

Enough with the rules, explanations, and other nonsense...let the ceremony begin!

2011 Best Figure

Although both Mattel and Jakks put forth solid efforts in 2011, it's actually a figure released in the final days of 2010 that gets the 2011 award. Due to its very late release and my own inability to review it until 2011, the figure was notably disqualified in 2010.

Mattel's WWE Defining Moments "Macho Man" Randy Savage wins "The Joshie" for 2011 Best Figure. I predicted in both the 2010 awards entry and in the review in January that this figure would be the 2011 winner. Sadly, another prediction of mine regarding this figure did not come true. That prediction was that Savage himself would finally make the convention rounds to sign this beautiful piece. As the world knows by now, Savage passed away in May. The Macho Man did in fact do a promo piece for Mattel with the figure and seemed to like it very much. His fans the world over echoed those sentiments. While other Savage figures were released this year and will continue to be for the foreseeable future, none match the detail of this wonderful commemorative.

Dig it.

2011 Best Publication

2011 seemed to be a slightly slower year for wrestling related publications than in years past. That being said, the winner of this years award would've had more than a fighting chance against even the highest rated wrestling books.

The Last Outlaw By Stan Hansen wins "The Joshie" for 2011 Best Publication. In his long awaited autobiography, Stan "The Lariat" Hansen gets the chance to pull back the curtain on one of wrestling's most legendary characters. Fabled tales are confirmed or denied regarding the rugged Texan, but the book is most notable for an intimate look at the world of Japanese wrestling. Stories from the inner workings of pro wrestling in the land of the rising sun were few and far between until Hansen, a key player in Japan for years, wrote this barn burner with co-author Scott Teal.

2011 Best Buy (Non-Figure/Publication)

A new category that virtually anything other than an action figure or book/magazine can win. This award will highlight just exactly what gave the wrestling fan the most bang for his/her buck. At times, including this year, the award may be given to something just a bit outside the box.

The 2011 NWA Legends Fanfest wins "The Joshie" for 2011 Best Buy. I would go as far as to say that each year this particular award is given out, NWA Fanfest will take it home. There isn't a better value for your wrestling dollar than Fanfest. This is a fact that I've driven home in many previous entries. It's more than just a meet and greet, it's the single best experience that a fan of classic pro wrestling can have. 2012 is being talked about as the final edition of Fanfest, but I can almost guarantee that the final event will go out with a bang...and "The Joshie" for 2012 Best Buy as well.

2011 Best Product Line

This is another award where many different items and companies can be considered. Although Mattel took it home last year, various distribution problems plagued both wrestling action figure companies so much in 2011 that it nearly took them out of the running.

WWE Home Video wins "The Joshie" for 2011 Best Product Line. Although the offerings in 2011 were just a tad less interesting than previous years, WWE Home Video still takes the cake in this category. The company took a deeper plunge into Blu-Ray in 2011 by first offering DVD/Blu-Ray combo packs starting with the Royal Rumble and subsequently producing each and every pay-per-view event on Blu-Ray. This practice ended before Money In The Bank 2011 could reach the shelves on Blu-Ray much to the disappointment of many fans.

With the upcoming demise of WWE Classics On-Demand due to the 2012 launching of the WWE Network, the home video department may have their hands full. At this point it seems that very little classic content will be offered on the network. If this is so, WWE would be wise to feed classic fans with more vintage DVD and Blu-Ray releases.

2011 Future Holy Grail

Another category in which the winner can come from virtually anywhere, this year the winner could be considered a subset of sorts.

Jakks TNA Knockouts Figures win "The Joshie" for 2011 Future Holy Grail. Although there have only been three such figures so far (Madison Rayne hit online stores right before press time) this terrific trio have been the crown jewel among Jakks 2011 offerings. Filled with detail and relatively difficult to find right off the bat, these figures are already fan favorites. While Velvet Sky and Angelina Love were short packed per shipping case, I'm not sure that Daffney (released in a 2-pack with Dr. Stevie) ever made it to store shelves.

Amazing likenesses, popular never-before-released characters, and automatic "rarity" upon release all add up to be a "Holy Grail" in any collection. Hopefully Jakks will continue to expand upon their Knockouts releases as figures of ODB, Gail Kim, Traci Brooks, and So Cal Val are long overdue in my book.

Congratulations to all of the 2011 J\/\/ Award winners! Once again "The Joshie" bodyslams Oscar, Emmy, Tony, Espy, and even the Slammy right to the mat. Agree? Disagree? Let us know here on the blog or on our Facebook Fanpage where a gallery of both the 2010 and 2011 winners will soon be going live.

And of course...

The Von Erich Legacy Is Remembered...And Continued

2011-12-15T00:12:00.017-05:00

They say that if you weren't there, you have no idea just how crazy it was. A buzz created by a group of talented young men. Insane fans. Screaming girls. No, not BeatleMania. Von Erich Mania.

Throughout the better part of the 1980's, pro wrestling in Texas was defined by the Von Erich family. Patriarch Fritz was originally a hated "German" wrestler known for the dreaded "Iron Claw" finisher. By this time, Fritz was the owner of World Class Championship Wrestling. WCCW had a television show that had a reach as far as Israel, excellent production values, a hot in-ring product, and Fritz's sons as the starring babyfaces.

David, Kevin, and Kerry Von Erich were no doubt the cornerstone of WCCW. Their seemingly endless feud with The Fabulous Freebirds is lovingly remembered to this day. Sadly, the tragedies of the Von Erich family are more often discussed. The deaths of Fritz's sons Jack, David, Mike, Chris, and Kerry have been chronicled everywhere from tabloid television shows to WWE DVD releases.

As usual in this blog we celebrate the good in pro wrestling and thus choose to remember the great memories that the family has brought us in the ring and will continue to do in the very near future. Just this past week it was announced that Kevin Von Erich's sons Ross and Marshall will debut for Pro Wrestling NOAH in Japan in January 2012. Trained under the experienced eye of Harley Race, there's great hope that the new generation of the Von Erich clan will pick up where their father and uncles left off.

Keeping the tradition of the previous generation of Von Erich's alive are three new figures in Mattel's WWE Legends line. To say that these figures have had a rocky road to release is an understatement.

Originally announced well over a year ago, WCCW-styled figures of Kevin and Kerry were slated to be released in a two-pack while the WWF Texas Tornado version of Kerry was to be released as a single in a WWE Legends series. Due to over production and a high price point to the first series of Legends two-packs released exclusively through Toys "R" Us, the second series, planned to include the Von Erich's and The Rockers, was canceled. While The Rockers ended up being sold through Mattel's online collectors store, Kevin and Kerry were split up and included in the Legends Series 6 along with the Tornado figure and new versions of The Ultimate Warrior and Eddy Guerrero.

While this seemed like a collector-pleasing solution, all was still not well with the WWE Legends line. Mattel announced that the 6th series would be the last sold at retail and that future releases would only be sold through their collectors site. The series was ultimately released, although at first only to online sites that sell the figures at a higher price than brick and mortar stores. After much fear in the collecting community that the series would never hit stores, in the past month the figures have found their way into Toys "R" Us, Wal Mart, and K-Mart.

I'm pleased to announce that the wait was worth the while. Despite their huge popularity in the 1980's, the Von Erich family had only ever seen a single action figure release. This was the Texas Tornado figure in the Hasbro WWF line released less than a year before Kerry's death. Finally we not only have another Tornado but a Kerry from the WCCW days and Kevin as well.

I've seen many non-collector fans of the Von Erich's speculate and even grumble as to why David and the other Von Erich brothers were not produced as well. I'll repeat my rebuttal here: we're lucky to have the ones that did end up produced. The figure companies are only going to produce characters that they feel are going to sell. While old school fans can say "Well, I'd buy it if they made it..." until they're blue in the face, when push comes to shove 95% wouldn't end up buying it. That's where economics come into the picture. Early reports are that The Rockers two pack released through the Mattel site has suffered from disappointing sales as well. This only ensures that less and less Legends figures are made until the concept is done completely. Does it please me? No. Does it please my wallet? Yes.

The fact is that we have several great figures including one legendary wrestler who has never before been immortalized in plastic. The figures come packaged on the standard Legends card backing with attractive artwork of the stars. Mattel made an interesting mistake early on here with a picture of Texas Tornado-era Kerry on the WCCW-era Kerry figure package and vice versa. Many fans would not notice this, but it is worth pointing out. On the other hand, the Kerry figures are a bit more attractive on the card than the Kevin figure. The Kerry figures are a bit bulkier and take up more of the plastic bubble.

All three figures sport a right hand positioned in the "Iron Claw" hold which is a very nice touch. All three also include individual entrance gear that is extremely accurate. Kevin's jacket is made of a cheaper quality material than Kerry's gear, but in the package it's really impossible to notice.

Kevin is one that I'd have thought to be a hard likeness to capture. I'm not sure why I'd think that, but Mattel definitely proved me wrong. Kevin's face sculpt is easily one of the best in the entire history of the Mattel WWE collection. Kerry's is the same on the both figures. His is very, very, very good, but I prefer the Hasbro Kerry likeness just a bit more. Nothing at all to complain about in this department.

All three figures have reused bodies, but I doubt anyone will be complaining here either. Kerry uses a very chiseled and defined torso while Kevin is slighter. Very true to life for both men. It should also be noted that Kevin is indeed barefoot as he was throughout his career. This does not hurt the figures ability to stand at all.

The figures compare well to others in the line and will look great displayed with their friends and foes from WCCW and beyond. Slap an IC title on Tornado and an NWA title on the Kerry and memories in plastic have rarely looked so good.

Much like the glory of the Von Erich wrestling dynasty, the greatness of these figures is a tad bittersweet. Seeing the detail and work that went into these figures makes one wonder just what kind of magic Mattel could make with other territorial stars who have never received a figure. As was mentioned above, it's getting less and less likely that we'll ever see such treasures produced.

My verdict? You don't have to ask. These are amazing figures that should be in the collection of any Von Erich fan or collector. There is an initial price gauging right now due to the online retailers having these first and the news that this is the last series of Legends to be sold at retail. This should end and prices will drop. Ultimately, I'd advise to wait and pick these up at retail. The Guerrero and Warrior figures also in the series will be more recognizable to children thus leaving Kerry and Kevin for the adult collector.

****"From The Musty, Yellowed Pages..."****

The Wrestler, September 1970, Page 49

In keeping with this blog's policy of bringing you the latest finds in vintage magazines, I present another future star as a youngster.

A few months back this mini-column re-introduced a magazine find that I had actually spread on the Internet nearly a decade earlier. Indeed, the Human Suplex Machine was an Inside Wrestling Pen Pal as a child. Today we present one who might just be a bit more "Fabulous."

The last name may be one letter off, but there is no doubt that the future "Fabulous One" Steve Keirn is the youngster here. Yes, Skinner himself. The photo used HAS to be from a few years earlier, as Keirn hardly looks the age given of 19.

19 years old in 1970? Check. Keirn was born in 1951. Miami, Florida? Check. Keirn lives there to this day and runs WWE's developmental affiliate FCW. Same smile and ears? Check. Favorite wrestler Jack Bruno? Uhhh...who? I'm fairly sure they meant to print Jack Brisco.

Unless Keirn was looking into the future and thinking of The Rock's character in Race To Witch Mountain?

Regardless, our lil Skinner certainly was a sharp dressed man.

JWs Official "Christmas Ideas For The Wrestling Fan" 2011 Edition

2011-12-08T18:34:00.015-05:00

In a usual entry I try and cater to the educated and seasoned wrestling memorabilia collector. This time we're taking a break from that. This entry will cater to someone who may not even be a wrestling fan, but instead has one on their holiday shopping list. Young or old, male or female, erudite or hayseed--anyone can be a fan of pro wrestling. This entry will highlight items that should please any of the above recipients.

The first and most traditional wrestling gift is an event ticket itself. Traditionally business picked up the week of Christmas due to this exact reason: wrestling tickets DO make great gifts. Not only does it thrill the recipient upon opening the box or envelope, but the lucky fan also has something to look forward to in the days following Christmas. In the modern era, even something like a WrestleMania ticket or a VIP pass to one of the many wrestling fanfests or conventions would be included here.

These days fans don't have to leave their house to be in on the action of any sport or entertainment entity. Video games are a big part of that and one such game that will be under more trees than most others this Christmas is WWE '12. The newest WWE game is already getting rave reviews for an all-new system of play during matches as well as a wide variety of characters. While the inclusion of Brock Lesnar as a Legend in the game has been getting a lot of talk among fans, it's the home video game debut of Demolition, Ax and Smash, that has this fan looking to eventually snap up a copy.

Although video games provide a great simulation as well as a way to create your own dream matches, wrestling action figures have been around a bit longer for similar play activity. These days it isn't just the kids collecting the plastic representations of their favorite stars. Since we often focus on the adult side of collecting, in this entry the emphasis will be on figures and items geared towards children--not to mention ones able to be had for a great price.

Retailers will often have exclusive sets at this time of the year to encourage picking up a package deal for little Johnny...or little Jimmy. Mattel's WWE line is well represented at a few different stores this year.

Wal Mart stores are carrying a set based upon the recent feud of John Cena and The Miz. Figures of both men are included with a ring and cage for just $25. The cage even includes an opening door which has been often omitted from toy cages over the years. Considering the figures often retail for $8-$10 alone, this is quite the deal for holiday shoppers and collectors alike.

One line that has captured the interest of collectors young and old is the WWE Rumblers series from Mattel. Figures are small, almost Little People-like, representations of current WWE stars. Discount grocery store chain Aldi is carrying a Rumblers ring along with figures of Rey Mysterio and Kane for just $9.99. Aldi stores are known for having a section of toys during the holiday season and this year wrestling fans really can't go wrong by stopping in. Be sure to pick up a cheeseball while in the store as at under three bucks the Aldi Happy Farms brand makes Hickory Farms smell like an old barn.

If you're really looking to go discount, the various dollar stores have come through like always. Various wrestling figures and rings of all shapes and sizes are once again available en masse in stores such as Dollar Tree, Dollar General, and Family Dollar. While the figures may just be "generic" versions of our favorite stars, to a child a wrestling figure is a wrestling figure. This is especially true to those who are less fortunate. A figure and ring gift set at one of these stores can often be had for $5 or under. A purchase of one of these as a donation to a charity such as Toys For Tots would be a wonderful way to help a less fortunate wrestling fan this season. I should mention that many of these sets include a very nice generic figure based off of Mistico...now known as Sin Cara. With his popularity among children I can't even begin to imagine the fun that a needy child would have with one of these sets.

There are some adult fans that could care less about games or toys. Some simply want an adult gift. While the amount of DVDs and books with the topic of wrestling are plentiful as always, my best suggestion would be something for the "flavor" of Christmas. Along these lines, I can personally recommend any of JR's excellent products. While the legendary announcer's barbecue sauce has found its way onto the kitchen shelves of legend, many other products are also available under the JR's label. Now available exclusively in WWE Shop, JR's beef jerky is still the best that I have ever tasted and the Chipotle Ketchup and Main Event Mustard are staples in my refrigerator. Many combos are available that include autographed bonus items making it an extra special holiday gift. Be sure to pick up a set that includes the mustard as it will come in quite handy for New Years kielbasa feasts.

Lastly, one can never go wrong with a vintage present. eBay is still the #1 place to obtain such items, and as I've said many times in the past, currently wrestling memorabilia is largely a buyers market. Items that you may have seen years ago sell for a large sum may now be obtainable for a fraction of the cost. It's hard to fail with a gift from the past.

These are just a few ideas for the wrestling fan on your list. If you have any that you think I missed or would just like to share feedback, please do so on our Facebook Fanpage.

And of course, your friendly blogger always welcomes holiday gifts. Think of it as that holiday tip to your postal worker or trash collector.

No fruitcakes, please.

The Cure For A Hangover (II)? Classic WWF Cards!

2011-12-01T20:26:00.013-05:00

It's very hard to believe that December 2011 is upon us. It seems like only yesterday that spring was in bloom and summer was on the horizon. That would be just about the time that "The Hangover II" was hitting theaters and funny bones alike.

The comedy blockbuster, which is set to hit DVD and Blu-Ray this coming Tuesday, caught the eyes of wrestling fans and collectors the world over. In the opening moments of the film viewers delve into the bedroom of arguably the film series' most popular character, Alan (portrayed by Zach Galifianakis). Despite the scene probably clocking in under five minutes, the prop department went to great lengths (and expense) to illustrate Alan's love of '80s WWF wrestling. Not only does his room include shelves featuring nearly the entire LJN WWF action figure line (including the Hasbro-released LJN-sized Sgt. Slaughter) but the walls are adorned with posters of Randy "Macho Man" Savage, Hillbilly Jim, and Mr. Perfect among others. The interesting thing about these posters is that they are not commercially released posters but are instead extremely large blowups of cards from the 1990 WWF trading card series produced by Classic.

It's interesting to speculate just why these cards were blown up instead of using existing posters. While I'm no expert in the field of photo development, it seems that the price of enlarging these small cards would far outweigh the price of obtaining a few posters. Similarly, it's surprising that the prop department even obtained the rarer figures from the WWF LJN line rather than just using the more common (and remembered) earlier characters.

As far as the Classic WWF cards, movie prop use or not, the series can be considered rather iconic. The set is a beautiful time capsule of 1989 WWF featuring a wide variety of names from main eventers such as Hulk Hogan, Ultimate Warrior, Dusty Rhodes, and Rick Rude to lower card talent like Brooklyn Brawler, Red Rooster, and Barry Horowitz. Even managers, announcers, and officials found their way into the set.

The card set is not at all rare and was mass produced to be released several different ways. Cards were released in packs (packs often contained the same cards in the same order), boxed complete sets, and as a complete set packaged with a blue album and five exclusive purple border cards.

While the set was released and dated 1990, the photos reflect the 1989 roster as mentioned above. There is a rare earlier version of the set dated 1989 that includes cards of the Twin Towers (Akeem & Big Boss Man) together as a team. Many of the same photos were used on another 1989 card set released exclusively in New Zealand from a company called Market Scene Limited. These cards feature pink, blue, and purple backgrounds behind the wrestlers.

The Classic Company released another set later in 1990 featuring action shots from the first six WrestleMania events. These cards are very similar in style, production, and release. A complete set was released with this series as well, with the album being red instead of blue.

Most of these cards will likely never be worth much monetarily but are easily obtained and would make a great gift for any fan of '80s and '90s wrestling. The cards are also fun to get signed, especially the sharp studio shots.

Who knew that the set would be immortalized on celluloid over twenty years after their original release? Classic indeed!

****"From The Musty, Yellowed Pages..."****

WOW Magazine, December 1999, Page 131

It looks like Bryan Danielson, aka Daniel Bryan, may finally be getting his shot at the top of the ladder. Although his fans have been calling him "the best wrestler in the world" for years now, to the mainstream wrestling fan it isn't until a star reaches the top of the WWE that one can make that claim.

With his star brighter than ever, it's worth checking out one of Danielson's earliest appearances in wrestling media. Going back twelve years, World of Wrestling (WOW) Magazine did a multi-page story on Shawn Michaels in his first retirement. Pictures of his home life with wife Rebecca (Nitro Girl Whisper) as well as shots at his wrestling school were included.

One group shot of his students and trainers stands out above the rest. Sharp-eyed fans will spot the late Lance Cade as well as Brian "Spanky" Kendrick. To the left of Kendrick, almost obscured by his fellow pupils, is the future Daniel Bryan at age 18. Who else can you name in the photo?

My Wrestling Favorites--Part 5 of 5

2011-11-24T13:34:00.009-05:00

Traditionally on Thanksgiving I remind you of how this day was once one of the biggest grossing days in the wrestling industry. This year, I instead give you something to be thankful for--the five part "My Wrestling Favorites" series is ending!

I kid, as I'm actually very thankful that so many of you have enjoyed it and that such great and compelling feedback has come out of the series. I've also gotten some great ideas for future features along the same lines.

Going back to Thanksgiving traditions within the industry, it pleases me to say that the subject of our first profile has taken part in both of Turkey Day's most memorable wrestling events--Starrcade and Survivor Series!

1 of 5 All-Time Favorites: Rowdy Roddy Piper

I've met very few wrestling fans over the years who DON'T love Hot Rod. Wrestler. Actor. Pop Culture Icon. All that and a great guy, to boot.

He's not a wrestler in the traditional sense. He's a fighter. In fact, if you've ever listened to a Piper interview, he calls his matches "fights." He never had the wrestler look. He just looks exactly like what a "Rowdy Roddy Piper" should look like.

Just when you think you have the answers, he changes the questions. It's not a skirt, it's a kilt. And just what does a Scotsman wear under his kilt?

His shoes!

I've previously chronicled how Piper should be given much of the credit for the "Rock 'n Wrestling" boom era in the mid-'80s. Hulk Hogan had a plethora of worthy opponents, but who else could have talked the fans into the seats quite like Piper did? He certainly had the appearance of someone that The Hulkster could have disposed of within minutes, yet I don't recall that pinfall ever coming.

Even today, WWE knows that when an angle needs a little extra boost all that is needed is a short trip to Piper's Pit. John Cena, Randy Orton, and Wade Barrett learned this in the build-up for the 2010 Survivor Series in a segment that drew otherwise uninterested fans into the conflict.

From loud-mouthed, kilt-clad fighter to wise, grizzled sage of the mat wars, like many Piper will always have a place in the squared circle. Unlike many, Piper also has a permanent home in the American consciousness as an all-time truly memorable, and loved, personality.

God Bless ya, Roddy!

1 of 5 Current Favorites: Awesome Kong aka Kharma

While I have so many all-time favorite women wrestlers that they get their own list (shall we explore that in the future?), only one cracks the current five. That woman would be Kia Stevens, known in the wrestling word as Amazing Kong, Awesome Kong, or Kharma.

Quite simply, Kong is different. She's not the Barbie doll-type that tries to learn wrestling basics in their three-to-five year shelf life in the industry. She's rough, tough, and could probably legitimately demolish many male stars.

Although an American, like many of the best female stars she is a product of puroresu--Japanese wrestling. With her unique look and amazing skill, it's no wonder that she became a star in the Land of the Rising Sun and subsequently in America.

During her tenure in TNA, Kong seemed to break the doors open as far as creating a legitimate modern women's wrestling division. Her battles with Gail Kim proved so popular (proven to be due nearly all to Kong's talent) that TNA was considering beginning an all-female wrestling show. This ultimately did not come to be, but we still have Kong's run in the company to look back on as proof.

Kong, now known as Kharma, was well on her way to creating the same magic in WWE when she became pregnant. It's the hopes of many fans that following her blessed event Kharma will return to the ring and continue with the same momentum. Collectors are hoping this to be true for purely selfish reasons as a true action figure of the women's star has yet to produced, although a small non-poseable Amazing Kong figure was produced in Japan. Hopefully this is one "Diva" figure that Mattel would not produce less of as is their asinine policy.

I hope that you've enjoyed the "My Wrestling Favorites" series and look forward to hearing even more feedback. As with every Thanksgiving, I'm thankful that each and every one of you take the time to read this blog each week. Have a blessed holiday!

My Wrestling Favorites--Part 4 of 5

2011-11-17T18:44:00.008-05:00

Rolling on with Part 4 of the five-part "My Wrestling Favorites" series, once again highlighted will be one of my five "current" favorite wrestlers and one "all-time" favorite. Don't forget that you're always encouraged to give feedback via the blog itself, e-mail, or our Facebook Fanpage.

1 of 5 All-Time Favorites: Ric Flair

Whooooooo, indeed! It's really hard to have not loved Ric Flair at some point in his career. Even if you don't care for what he's become, Flair has undoubtedly entertained you in some shape or form in the past forty years. Whether it was his portrayal of a cocky heel escaping defeat by the skin of his teeth, brash and eccentric leader of the Four Horsemen, crazy mental home escapee, or pro wrestling's elder statesman, Flair is another of the greats with a firm grasp on how to reinvent himself.

Much is out there about Flair's failures away from the squared circle. No one is basing their love for "The Nature Boy" character on those facts. While Flair himself may not be able to separate the business from real life, any true fan should. The character of Ric Flair garners so much respect that even the referees hold the ropes open for the legend. That is the kind of legacy that Flair carved out for himself in the ring.

Flair's in-ring career may have been more of a roller coaster ride than any other. Fans are still shocked to see photos of 300 pound Flair when he was first starting out. Not much more than enhancement talent, Naitch's early days in the AWA were a far cry from what he would become. A trip to the Carolinas, the region that would eventually become synonymous with Flair, was exactly the ticket to stardom. Teaming with already established talent such as Rip Hawk and Greg Valentine was a mere stepping stone, albeit a star-studded one, for Flair in his quest for greatness...or shall we say...a Flair for the Gold.

The 1980's would arguably be the era in wrestling most associated with Flair. Certainly he and Hulk Hogan would be the two top stars of the decade, each ruling different promotions in very distinct ways. While Hogan was the ultimate hero of the WWF taking on never ending heel challengers, Flair ruled the NWA as the heel champion, generally accepting challenges from all comers. Two different booking styles for two very different fanbases.

After a fun early '90s WWF run, Flair's career seemed to take a downward spiral. Following Hogan's 1994 arrival to WCW, Flair's stature fell greatly. In my opinion, Flair's legacy suffered from this point until his WWF return in late 2001. Flair has stated himself that he lost his usual self-confidence during this time. It's difficult to say whether it was due to backstage power or just bad booking choices, but thankfully Flair's legacy of "The Greatest of All-Time" was well restored by WWF/WWE within the last decade.

While I feel that Flair should still be retired from regular active ring competition, I also feel that he'll always have a place in the business. The Nature Boy makes a very good, and credible, manager/coach type figure and should be used as such. Remember...diamonds ARE forever...and you know the rest.

1 of 5 Current Favorites: Samoa Joe

I have been a fan of "The Samoan Submission Machine" since long before he ever received that moniker. I mentioned in an earlier entry in this series that there are certain wrestlers that simply LOOK the part--like a wrestler. Joe would certainly qualify there. He's always reminded me of Don Muraco...plus. The fact is that Joe has the ability to go far beyond the heights Muraco reached.

I've discussed before what I felt to be the "glory" days of indy wrestling. These were the times in which the independent circuit was chock full of top-level talent. CM Punk, Christopher Daniels, and Samoa Joe were hyped as the next big things...and chances were that if you attended enough indy shows you were bound to run into one of them.

I did not get to see Samoa Joe live until he'd already signed with TNA, but I was already a fan. Smaller guys doing the moves that indy guys do is one thing, but to see a big semi-monster doing those things? That was Joe.

Joe also seemed to avoid being sucked into anything too gimmicky. The longstanding story is that Samoa Joe was offered a WWE contract but turned it down due to the WWE creating the Umaga character for him to portray.

After signing with TNA, Joe was initially used perfectly. His feud with Kurt Angle is one of the most underrated stories to come out of the near decade that TNA has been in business. Each of their main event matches had a "big fight feel" and "real sports build" to throw some Internet wrestling buzz phrases out there.

In 2009 TNA decided to almost turn Joe into their own Umaga. Joe began wearing face paint and his wrestling no longer seemed to have the hard hitting realism that it once did. Many feel that Joe is now on the cusp of returning to the main event scene in TNA, and I certainly hope that is in fact the case.

Though I'm not holding my breath for it to happen, I would still love to see what WWE would do with Joe. Although he doesn't have the typical "look" for a star in WWE, it would be an amazingly fresh concept for the company.

Regardless of which company he is with, if Samoa Joe is on the card there is at least one match that I will look forward to. Joe is a great blend of both past and present in-ring styles and one of the few current stars that I believe would've succeeded in any era of the industry.

My Wrestling Favorites--Part 3 of 5

2011-11-10T18:27:00.009-05:00

Back for more? Of course you are! If you're just joining us, "My Wrestling Favorites" is a five-part series where I discuss my five favorite current wrestling stars and my five all-time favorite greats of the game. Controversy and fun have abound in the previous two entries, and I'm sure that will be no different in the third installment. Let's begin...

1 of 5 All-Time Favorites: Hulk Hogan

Love him or hate him, I challenge anyone to argue that he isn't the biggest star that the sport has ever seen. I can remember as a child marveling at the fact that even my grandmother knew who Hulk Hogan was.

I've mentioned before that I feel I'm the luckiest kind of wrestling fan. I enjoy both the athletic side and the entertainment side equally, as long as they don't stray too far in one direction. Hulk Hogan definitely plays more toward the entertainment side. Seeing as how Hogan's popularity boom helped to usher more of that entertainment into pro wrestling, it's easy to understand why fans of previous eras aren't fond of the legend. As far as growing up during the "Rock n' Wrestling era," only the most jaded fan who feels that they're "too cool for the room" will completely deny ever being sucked into the Hulkamania magic. Even if you loved his opponents, as I did, at one point or another you felt chills as "Real American" played and The Hulkster lived to fight another day...and another monster heel.

Hogan also does not get enough credit for his in-ring skills. A look at his work in Japan will show you that The Hulkster could in fact wrestle, but didn't incorporate it much as far as his stateside character went. What he did do here worked. It drew money. It made him the biggest star that the industry had ever seen and probably ever will. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

A list of Hogan merchandise may also be second-to-none. Although the stars of the "Attitude Era" such as Steve Austin and The Rock certainly come close, the length of their careers on top are nowhere near that of Hogan's. Shoelaces, lunchboxes, shampoo, shirts, pajamas, hats, shoes, underwear, and even a cartoon--you name it, Hulk had it.

While even I went through a bit of Hogan fatigue around the time he joined WCW in 1995, his captaining of the nWo was a well done reinvention. It also made a return to the red and yellow all the sweeter. Though some feel that he has overstayed his welcome in the business, I feel that there will always be a place for Hulk Hogan. The WWE has tried to market Hogan as "The Babe Ruth of Wrestling." I've always enjoyed that moniker and hope that "The Immortal" continues to go in that direction as long as Father Time will allow.

1 of 5 Current Favorites: Rob Van Dam

Although he's been around for two decades, RVD is indeed a current star. For various reasons, Van Dam is one of the few ECW originals who has been able to remain a star no matter where he goes.

Controversy seems to come natural in my "current" choices and this one will be no different. Despite the nostalgia, ECW doesn't hold up in this fan's eyes. Sure there is some replay value as there is with all wrestling, but the fact is that so much that made ECW innovative is run-of-the-mill in today's product. With WWF and NWA wrestling from years past you have presentation and style that fans long for today. Clones and reintroductions of ECW have been attempted too many times and in turn watered down the original. Chunks of the style and presentation of ECW that have been inserted, albeit terribly, into the current product have in no way helped the matter.

RVD is probably the brightest star to make his name in the promotion. While some would say that his best days are behind him, Van Dam still goes out of his way to give an entertaining match full of innovation in an otherwise stale environment. It's telling that the man still has hoards of admirers, some of whom were not even alive when RVD was first making his mark.

Although names such as Rocca, Snuka, and Savage are often credited for high-flying wrestling innovation in the United States, Van Dam long ago earned his right to be alongside of them. Even today, watching a Rob Van Dam match is different from matches of nearly any other wrestler. As mentioned in some of my other favorite profiles, it's a case of having the complete wrestling package. With RVD, you get a unique style, charisma, and skill that many other wrestlers would love to have all rolled into one.

Due largely in part to his wide array of singlet designs, Van Dam has had a variety of action figures over the years. The favorite of many and even Van Dam himself is the "Limited to 5000" figure produced by Jakks exclusively for Toys "R" Us. The figure is based upon Van Dam's duel reign as ECW and WWE Champion. Both belts, a figure sized ECW shirt, and a "Money in the Bank" briefcase are included as accessories. Van Dam has told me that despite it being his favorite, he himself does not own one. For those of you with one, I have just given you a way to become a "Five Star" friend of the man himself.

Wait. A friend of who?

Rob...Van...Dam! (I couldn't resist.)

My Wrestling Favorites--Part 2 of 5

2011-11-03T19:28:00.005-04:00

So, you've come back for more? Here we go with round two of "My Wrestling Favorites." As I explained previously, each entry in this series will highlight two wrestlers--one from my five "All-Time" favorites and one from my five "current" favorites. These are not in order, but their inclusion is explained both in word and in, of course, memorabilia. Comment and argument are both welcome!

1 of 5 All-Time Favorites: Dusty Rhodes

If you've read this blog for any amount of time, the inclusion of The American Dream should come as no surprise.

While he is indeed "The Dream," it's his other nickname of "The Common Man" that sums up his entire appeal. He didn't look like a superstar by any stretch of the imagination. Instead it was his boat loads of charisma that projected him into superstardom.

It was the same charisma that made you believe that Big Dust could defeat wrestling's supermen. While The Dream had strength, the large stomach and self-proclaimed "big booty" would've looked off-center against the muscle definition of Superstar Billy Graham, Lex Luger, and Nikita Koloff. Because of his gift for gab and absolute magnetism for drawing in a crowd, Rhodes' girth was lost in the "Stardust" magic.

Although many fondly remember Dusty's days in the WWF and '80s NWA, his peak in popularity may have actually been in the late 1970's. Paging through virtually any '70s wrestling magazine will showcase just how far his reach went. Pictures of Rhodes' being mobbed by fans, topping popularity lists, and dropping the "Bionic Elbow" on the era's top heels is living proof that Dustymania ran wild a few years before Hulkamania was on the radar.

While some fans have decried Dusty's "polka dot" WWF run from 1989 to 1991, most have come to accept it as a charming extension of his career. It has been erroneously reported over the years that "The Common Man" moniker replaced "The American Dream" during this run. In fact, this claim was repeated in the WWE-produced Rhodes' DVD documentary by a certain top WWE star that you "can't see." This claim is 100% false, as Dusty's WWF/WWE theme includes both names as did the WWF frequently on commentary and in print. Flip through the aforementioned '70s magazines and you'll even see Dusty occasionally wearing polka dots years earlier. There were only two changes noticeable to fans during this run: he was a bit more fun-loving and danced a little funkier. Dusty, himself, would point out a few more: he had more fun (he was not involved in the WWF booking process) and made more money for less work. Everyone wins.

My attraction to the Dusty Rhodes phenomenon is like everyone else who's ever counted him among their favorites. He's simply larger than life. If he had the body, he would be Hulk Hogan. He has just as much charisma as The Hulkster, but came a bit earlier and in a bit plumper package.

Two of the greatest experiences in my life as a wrestling fan was getting to sit ringside for two Dusty Rhodes matches. Although both were long past his prime years, Dusty could still captivate an audience and prove that "The Dream" is still alive and well.

1 of 5 Current Favorites: CM Punk

I'm sure that many fans would include CM Punk on their list of favorites. The fact of the matter is that Punk has been on my list for the better part of ten years.

As I've discussed in past entries, I had the opportunity to see Punk from his very beginnings thanks to the IWC promotion here in Pittsburgh. From scarfing down steak and eggs at Denny's to asking my friend to buy him "The Simpsons" on DVD to having one of the best matches I've ever seen live (against Christopher Daniels), I have enough personal Punk memories to last me a lifetime.

Truthfully, I hemmed and hawed against including him on this "current" list. Since the WWE botched his recent persona and angle late this past summer, his rebellious "shoot" attitude is out of place and I no longer enjoy his current character. In the minds of myself and many other fans, Punk should only be returning just about now.

The fact that he has been one of my "current" favorites since 2002 retains his place here. Like most of my other favorites, Punk has it "all." He can wrestle circles around just about any other wrestler out there, can talk anyone into wanting to see a match, and has a respect for the industry that all wrestlers should be required to possess.

I don't feel that I can end this passage without a controversial statement or two. Part of me wants to say that Punk needs to show that he is Edge...plus. Although I was not a fan of Edge, there's no denying that he has accomplished a lot in his short career. Everything that Edge could do or did can be done better by Punk. Punk should also steer clear of a rumored feud with Chris Jericho. While the promos and matches would be great, such a feud would be a giant step backward with how far Punk has come. Taking nothing away from Jericho, I just don't feel the feud would benefit either man. Punk also needs to go back to his heel "cult leader" persona, mixing his "quasi-shoot" promos with his maniacal leader character.

Cult of Personality, indeed.

My Wrestling Favorites--Part 1 of 5

2011-10-27T21:39:00.012-04:00

Like any wrestling fan, I hear the same question time and time again: "Who's your favorite?"

It's not easy to play favorites. In fact, I've whittled my list down to not just one but five all-time favorites. That part wasn't too hard. But what about current favorites? I don't point out enough that I love many of the current crop of wrestlers, just not the product in which they are presented. There's an amazing group of talent out there in all of the top companies, but I never really got around to thinking about who my current favorites were--until now.

In this and four upcoming entries I will highlight two stars of the ring--one of my all-time favorites and one current favorite. Like I said, there are many more legends that I admire and many other current stars that I look forward to watching. In the case of the current stars, I chose five that have been around for a spell. While many stars that I enjoy such as D'Angelo Dinero, Heath Slater, and Jack Swagger are certainly high on my list, they don't have the years that the others on my current list have under their belt. In other words, the current stars on my list are more "current all-time," if that makes sense. These stars, both current and all-time, are also in no particular order.

Without further ado...let's discuss my first two choices.

1 of 5 All-Time Favorites: Harley Race

Wrestlers can have virtually any look imaginable. Beautiful or ugly. Fat or thin. Tall or short. Proper or slob. While Harley Race once used the "Handsome" moniker, one of the things that always made me enjoy him so much is the fact that he just LOOKS like a wrestler. If you ask me, you should be able to open up a dictionary and when looking up the word "wrestler" see a photograph of one of three men: Arn Anderson, Don Muraco, or Harley Race. For whatever reason, to me these three men epitomize the word "wrestler" by look alone.

Race did more than just stand around and look like a wrestler, he could back it up in the ring in spades. Show even the most stubborn wrestling "doubter" a Harley Race match and you may just have a believer.

Race does not get enough credit for being one of the very first wrestlers to have the all-around package. He had the look. He had the in-ring skills. He had the skills on the mic. For quite a few years he even had the mutton chops. According to many inside the business, he also had the ability to take care of himself outside of the ring as well.

Race is in virtually every wrestling Hall of Fame imaginable but I've always felt that "The King" simply doesn't get all of the accolades which he deserves. A WWE-produced DVD collection would be an amazing gift to fans, and although the company may not feel that he is as marketable as others that they have highlighted, such a set has a better chance than ever to be produced as Triple H makes more and more such decisions.

Indeed it does speak volumes about Race when stars such as Triple H and Mick Foley publicly point out the contributions that the legend has made to their own careers. Since retiring, Race has also trained many stars including Ted DiBiase Jr. and Trevor Murdoch.

Although Harley Race was well into his reign as "The King" in the WWF by the time I became a fan, the magic of videotape allowed me to go back and follow Race's career from virtually the beginning. The growling voice and methodical, calculating ring style won me over immediately. I'm not above saying that the man honestly scared me. Although I have had the fortune to be in his presence many times as an adult, the impact of seeing Race's work is still enough to make any fan a bit uneasy. He was that good.

1 of 5 Current Favorites: The Big Show

Paul Wight will go down in history as having one of the most debated careers in the business. Was it a success? Was it a failure? Considering he's still at the top of business, I would say that a 100% conclusion can't be made at this time. If I was forced to make that decision, I would ultimately consider it a success.

The problem with Wight's career is the constant comparison to Andre. To me, the only comparison that can be made to Andre is the fact that at one point his gimmick was being "the son of Andre." That's it. The Big Show and Andre the Giant are two different men with two different careers in two VERY different eras in professional wrestling. End of subject.

It was once rumored that Hulk Hogan told his friend, Paul Wight, that Vince McMahon would know how to make Wight a success. Whether or not the story was true, the message was correct. Wight did not appeal to me as "The Giant." At that point he essentially WAS supposed to be another Andre. As The Big Show, Wight was able to show his own personality. Was he too beatable at times? Perhaps, but the "giant" successes of his career continue to block out the bad similar to how his 7 foot frame blocks out the sun.

The Big Show appeals to me because in that 7 foot body he is able to put on an exciting, believable, and entertaining match as well as men half of his size. Detractors of his usually turn out to be the same naysayers who will automatically dislike any wrestler that doesn't excel with the fairyland expectation known as "workrate." The man can work. He's not flippy. Deal with it.

Currently in the midst of a fun feud with another underrated giant in the form of Mark Henry, Show is still going strong sixteen years after his WCW debut. Honestly, I would say Show has never been better. Each time that injuries have threatened to end his career, the man comes back a bit better than before. I'd like to think that Show has a few more years left in the ring, but when it does end I hope he goes out with a bang. Like the song says... "You won't see it coming, but I promise you'll know..."

I hope you've enjoyed the first two "My Wrestling Favorites" capsules. Stay tuned for four more installments! As always, for updates on the blog and galleries full of hundreds of great wrestling collectibles join our Facebook Fanpage!

15 Years of the...n...W...o!

2011-10-19T18:25:00.013-04:00

Slowly but surely everything from the 1990's is becoming nostalgic. We're already past the 20th anniversary of the beginning of that decade. Trends, fashion, and even music from the '90s are either way out of style or "cool" because they're "old." One entity from the '90s that will always be cool is one of the most popular wrestling factions of all-time...the nWo. Ok, maybe they weren't cool when Virgil was brought into the mix, but you all know that you wore the original nWo t-shirt with pride.

It's nearly impossible to believe that it has been 15 years since the "Real American" Hulk Hogan joined Kevin Nash and Scott Hall on that infamous night in 1996. It was the most shocking occurrence to take place in professional wrestling since the beginning of the "modern" era. How could the ultimate hero to millions of fans actually turn heel? Today you may hear fans claiming to have known that the "third man" to join Hall and Nash would be Hogan all along, but that claim is similar to baby boomers claims to have been at the original Woodstock--millions more say they were there than actually were.

The real question would be if WCW actually knew what a money maker they had run into. Obviously the angle would not last forever (although it certainly seemed to) but its impact on the business itself both on screen and off undeniably has.

In the late '90s one could barely venture out of the house without seeing either an Austin 3:16 or nWo t-shirt. The original designs of both shirts undoubtedly still reside in many drawers and closets to this day. Many obviously listened when Kevin Nash famously requested that fans "BUY THE SHIRT!"

It wasn't long after the formation of the group that fans began demanding action figures of the trio. Custom painted nWo versions of previous Hogan, Hall, and Nash figures began popping up on the internet seemingly every hour. Interestingly enough, the first licensed nWo figures did not even include Hall and Nash. Following his defection to the group in early 1997, "Macho Man" Randy Savage actually became one of the first two nWo action figures. A series of four two-packs produced by Original San Francisco Toymakers and released exclusively through Figures Inc. included a two-pack of Savage and Hogan. Although not initially planned as nWo figures, when shipped they were indeed in black and white attire. Figures of Hall, Nash, and others were eventually produced in many sizes and styles with a few even making it into the legendary WWE Classic Superstars line over a decade after the nWo's formation.

Needless to say, the merchandising did not end there. Take any item which is released for any blockbuster movie and you'll find an nWo equivalent for it. While WCW had an impressive run of merchandise before the nWo's creation, one could argue that they may have gained even more footing into the area than even the WWF at this point in time. Finally, WCW was getting press and mainstream media coverage that they could have only dreamed of before.

Some will argue that had the nWo been kept limited to the original three members that it would've remained relevant a lot longer than it was. All good things must come to an end. Despite the inclusion of nearly half of the WCW roster, it had to come to a conclusion sooner or later. Personally, I would've enjoyed seeing a definitive end, maybe even similar to Hogan's recent turn in TNA with the Hulkster returning to the side of good to end the evil that he helped create.

In the past year both WWE and TNA have shown that the nWo's influence remains with the factions known as Nexus and Fortune. Although neither has had the success of the nWo, it's telling that the wrestling organizations continue to try and emulate the style and actions of the notorious and groundbreaking group so many years later.

The preceding blog entry was NOT paid for by the New World Order.

House of Nuts: Meeting the Crazies of Wrestling

2011-10-10T19:45:00.013-04:00

Each year at this time I come to the same conclusion: pro wrestling is one giant Halloween party. Sure, since the 1980's that has become more and more true, but the industry has always had more than its share of colorful characters. Let's not forget that names like Pampero Firpo, The Sheik, and Abdullah the Butcher all originated more than 50 years ago!

Most wrestling fans would be lying if they told you that at least one of these outlandish, colorful, and many times untamed characters wasn't among their favorites. The matches that most of these men produce aren't exactly "Funk-Brisco classics," but I've always found that the happiest wrestling fans are those that can find enjoyment in all aspects of the sport. Like a connoisseur of music that appreciates the differences in genres, the best wrestling fans appreciate each and every style presented on a particular wrestling card.

Meeting these men can be an equally wild and crazy experience. What fan watching wrestling on a Saturday morning all of those years ago could ever imagine standing next to "The Ugandan Giant" Kamala or grappling with George "The Animal" Steele over just exactly whose friend "Mine" really is?

In actuality, many of these men who chewed anything from raw meat to turnbuckles are among the nicest and most down-to-earth gentlemen that you would ever want to meet. As one of the most memorable characters of 1980's WWF action, Steele barely spoke more than a handful of words. Although it was always the rumor of the schoolyard that "The Animal" actually taught school, it is not until you meet the man himself that you truly grasp the idea. And how about Kamala? The jungles of Uganda were actually the shrubs of Jerry Jarrett's backyard and the gibberish-speaking headhunter is in reality a well-spoken southern gentleman.

That isn't to say that meeting these men destroys the illusion. On the contrary, seeing just how gigantic Kamala actually is would probably surprise most fans. Other crazies of the ring such as Ox Baker barely change outside of the ring with growling, yelling, and even...singing.

Of my encounters with the various screwballs of the squared circle, it's one of the most recent that stands out like no other. Although he never actually had a match, fans of late '80s and early '90s WWF action will clearly remember Jameson. Beginning as a character on the short lived "Bobby Heenan Show" and later "managing" The Bushwhackers, Jameson was an unkempt poindexter who for the time was the go-to guy for comic relief in the World Wrestling Federation.

The man who portrayed Jameson, an actor by the name of John DiGiacomo, has made several wrestling convention appearances this year, most recently at Legends of the Ring in New Jersey. While some fans may question why a character such as his would appear at a wrestling convention, I've mentioned in previous entries that these shows always strive to book "fresh" guests to keep fan interest. Jameson fit that bill perfectly. Any fan who still had reservations about meeting a side "character" such as this was put at ease as soon as Jameson entered the room...and also put into stitches. Jameson's quirky antics were funnier in person than they were twenty years ago on Prime Time Wrestling. Just like George Steele and Mine or Kamala in his full makeup and costume, Jameson rekindled the magic of wrestling's zany best just one more time.

Still yet, there are some crazy characters of wrestling that shock the fans of today in another way. While many assumed that the "Wild Bull of the Pampas" Pampero Firpo was long gone, fans that attended the 2011 NWA Fanfest in Atlanta were proven very wrong. Although he looked quite different from his glory days from the 1950's through the 1970's, Firpo seemed as happy to meet the fans as they were to meet him. Equally as amusing was hearing his colleagues marvel at how shocking it was to see the wildman without his trademark hair and beard.

Though characters such as the Boogeyman still occasionally pop up today, the days of the truly crazy, offbeat, and zany in professional wrestling are all but gone. They'll be back. Fans will only be able to take so many cookiecutter overly muscled types before they're yearning for facepaint, bald heads, and back hair resembling a brillo pad.

Hot Rod...Or Hot Scot?

2011-10-03T20:15:00.013-04:00

Certainly no wrestling fan would ever describe "Rowdy" Roddy Piper as underrated, but it's quite possible that his role in the history of the industry could be labeled as such.

Though many fans look fondly at "happy" Roddy from his later in-ring career, Piper's best years and moments could be pinpointed to the decade of the '80s. It was no accident that when Trivial Pursuit released their "Totally '80s" edition a few years ago Piper starred in the commercial with other icons of the decade like (former WWF foe) Cyndi Lauper and Charlotte "Mrs. Garrett" Rae.

Opening the decade in the great southern territories of Georgia and the Carolina's, Roddy Piper built his name with both verbal and physical battles. Jack Brisco, Don Muraco, and Greg Valentine are just three fellow legends who "paid the Piper" during this time period. Piper's dog-collar battle at the inaugural Starrcade event with Valentine has become one of the most memorable matches of the era and is cited by many as a foreshadowing of what was to come with "hardcore" wrestling.

It wasn't until the "Rock 'n Wrestling" era began that Piper perhaps changed the industry. Although the WWF marketing machine and endless charisma of Hulk Hogan all but guaranteed success, it's difficult to imagine the same scenario developing without "Hot Rod."

During those years, many of Hogan's opponents simply did not have the gift of gab that Piper possessed. To be honest, MOST wrestlers didn't have the amount of talent that Piper did in that area. How would the "Rock 'n Wrestling" era and 80's "boom period" have played out without Roddy? In this position, Piper was quite irreplaceable.

Although Piper's career never quite reached the same levels after his 1987 retirement, "Hot Rod" does hold the distinction of being one of the most successful wrestlers to journey into acting. Although his films were not always commercial successes, fans place many of his performances on the same pedestal of his wrestling greatness.

Nearly 25 years after his starring roles in "Body Slam" and "They Live" among other films, Roddy is back with a film entitled "Fancypants." The film, which recently premiered and is slated to hit DVD shortly, should be another favorite among Piper's fans as the topic is none other than...pro wrestling.

Our friend Johngy, who runs a great blog entitled Johngy's Beat (frequently guest starring yours truly), recently had the opportunity to attend the premiere of "Fancypants" and was gracious enough to provide us with a review and photos.

"Last night we attended the Chicago premiere of Fancypants, the story of wrestler Leo the Blue Lion (portrayed by Patrick Gleason), who is being pushed out of the spotlight, but has one huge fan left in the form of 8 year old Tommy (portrayed by Jackson Dunn). At the heart of this story is the relationship between the two.

Making his film debut, Gleason was a natural as Leo. For his wrestling lessons, he trained with the Lucha Libre. In our interview with him, he compared learning about acting with learning about wrestling. Gleason said that both were challenges, but both were a lot of fun.

Also making his debut was Dunn, a local young talent who perfectly nailed the spirit of a die hard wrestling fan. Dunn seemed to be having a ball on the red carpet. He said he wasn't really a big fan of wrestling, but he enjoyed being around Roddy Piper.

Former American Gladiator Beth Horn (also a native Chicagoan), appeared as Animal Babe, one of Leo's opponents. Beth looked stunning and was all smiles as she walked the red carpet. She told us that her AG work and physical training was beneficial to her work as Animal Babe. We wrestled a scoop out of her. She is working on a future project, which she couldn't name, but she did drop the initials "OMG". Keep an eye out for that.

If Fancypants seems to have a Chicago flavor to it, it's because it was produced by Chicago's Humble Pie Films and was shot in Chicago using Chicago actors. Producer Daniel Hanson created Humble Pie Films with Writer-Director Joshua Russell (an instructor at DePaul University), Creative Director Jim Andre and Creative Producer Jim Poole. Russell talked to us about the process of completing an independent film and how he hoped Fancypants would open some doors for future indy films and for future projects utilizing Chicago and Chicago talent.

Fancypants is the story about wrestling, but it is really about the relationship between Leo and Tommy, the gifts they give each other and the growth we see in both. It is funny, serious, heartwarming, inspirational, but most of all very entertaining."

Thanks again to John Wroblewski for the great review and photos! Be sure to check out Johngy's Beat for a daily dose of entertainment, sports, celebrities, and more! For more on Fancypants, check out the official site at http://www.fancypantsmovie.com.

Muraco, Valentine, Hogan, and even cancer couldn't keep Roddy Piper down. He's a wrestler, actor, husband, father, and even a G.I. Joe. Don't question it, just embrace it: "Rowdy" Roddy Piper IS an icon. And don't forget...just when you think you have the answers, he changes the questions!

The Top 5 Wrestlers...Who Never Had An Action Figure

2011-09-29T21:17:00.007-04:00

For stars in all forms of entertainment, getting an action figure can mean different things. Some embrace the honor that it is, looking at it as "immortality in plastic." Others seem to make light of it or simply just don't care.

Nine times out of ten it seems that pro wrestlers really enjoy it. These days nearly every wrestler that makes it to WWE gets a figure, but what about twenty years or so ago? The Jakks WWE Classic Superstars line certainly helped more wrestlers of the past get figures that were otherwise overlooked. Who ever thought that grapplers such as Ron Bass or Rocky Johnson would finally get figures literally decades after their careers ended?

Although that amazing figure line helped "clean up" the unmade list, the fact of the matter is that there are still major wrestling names who have never had a plastic likeness made. I'm not talking about names like Frank Gotch, Strangler Lewis, or even Lou Thesz who came way before the action figure era. I'm talking about stars who made their names around the time that wrestling figures became commonplace on store shelves and in children's toy boxes.

This entry contains five wrestlers who need action figures desperately. I did use a couple of guidelines while making my list. The five names are strictly male whose greatest claim to fame were their in-ring years. Since most manufacturers concentrate on actual wrestlers, I have not included managers, commentators, or female stars. As much as I'd love figures of Sir Oliver Humperdink, JJ Dillon, The Glamour Girls, and Bob Caudle, companies like Hasbro, Galoob, and others just weren't interested in marketing more than male wrestlers. Even today, the companies struggle to make female and non-wrestler figures. Without further ado, here is my top five (in no particular order)...

#5--The Blue Meanie

What wrestler ever looked more like an action figure than ECW's best dancer? Colorful, fun, and a favorite of fans everywhere, a figure of "Da Blue Guy" would've easily been a great seller. Although The Meanie's ECW career did not coincide with the release of the company's action figures, his various WWF/WWE stints or inclusion in the Classic Superstars line would've been an ideal opportunity for a Meanie figure. And don't even get me started on how great the figure would've looked autographed!

#4--Dino Bravo

As far as the era of the LJN and Hasbro WWF action figure lines, NO ONE was more overlooked than "Canadian Strongman" Dino Bravo. A regular member of the roster during portions of both lines, Bravo just did not get an action figure. Fans have speculated that the violent nature of Bravo's death kept Jakks from including him in the Classic Superstars line. Word has been that his family is all for the production of a figure, so I hope that "Canada's Strongest Man" eventually gets his plastic due.

#3--Verne Gagne

This is one that I'll never understand. The man owned his own wrestling company WITH an action figure deal and still did not receive a figure. Although it's possible that Remco thought that an action figure of a balding, middle aged man wouldn't sell, based upon some of the toy company's other ideas I don't buy this theory. I certainly wouldn't think that it was Gagne's ego, either, although that's another story for another time. Verne is another who was overlooked in the Classic Superstars line, but the figure wouldn't satisfy me the way that a Remco version would have.

#2--Dick Murdoch

No folks, "Captain Redneck" didn't have an action figure. While he wasn't in any of the major companies for any great lengths of time during their initial action figure deals, we certainly should have seen him in the Classic Superstars line. He also would've been a great candidate for an action figure out of Japan where legends such as Mil Mascaras, Dory Funk Jr., and Antonio Inoki saw their inclusion from this list eliminated.

#1--Buddy Rogers

Including this "Nature Boy" was a decision that I went back and forth on. While his wrestling days were over for all intents and purposes by the era of figures, Rogers is one of the names that transcends eras. One could argue that Thesz should be included if Rogers is, but Rogers had the larger than life "sports entertainment" value that should have made him one of the very first Classic Superstars figures. Gorgeous George also falls under this umbrella but is disqualified due to the existence of a very rare puppet/doll of "The Toast of the Coast." Rogers had no figural representation whatsoever.

There you have my own personal top five. Before you ask, Magnum T.A., Kevin Von Erich, and Terry Taylor all have figures either released or slated to be released in the near future thus eliminating all three of those worthy contenders. Did I forget someone? Maybe you're unaware that a certain wrestler made it to plastic? Let us know here or on the Facebook Fanpage!

It Figures!--The 2011 Wrestling Action Figure Scene

2011-09-20T19:01:00.010-04:00

Action figures used to be the prime toy that "Little Johnny" (Little Jimmy is someone else...) could talk mom or dad into buying on a whim. There were tons to choose from, beginning in the mid-1970's nearly every property had them, and they were relatively cheap.

There are still tons to choose from and every property be it cartoon, movie, or comic book character still have them, but action figures really aren't cheap anymore. Like trading cards and comic books, figures are no longer the cheap item that will quiet a kid during a trip to the department store.

Although the prices no longer favor kids, in 2011 there are still several different wrestling action figure brand representing the current wrestling organizations. What are they doing right and what are they doing wrong?

Jakks Pacific is a toy company that truly built its name thanks to pro wrestling. Joining up with the WWF in 1996, Jakks still holds the record for the longest company to hold that toy license. Evolving as the product did, Jakks produced countless memorable figures over their decade and a half with the WWF/WWE. Although they had their faults (including countless repaints and releases of top stars) they cemented their legacy with the creation of what is perhaps the greatest wrestling figure collection of all-time, the WWE Classic Superstars.

Starting in 2010, toy giant Mattel took over the WWE toy line. Known for Barbie, Hot Wheels, and Masters of the Universe, Mattel is a well-known toy juggernaut going back decades. Around the same time that Mattel announced their new partnership, WWE's former toy producer Jakks announced that they would be assuming the TNA Wrestling toy line.

TNA Wrestling had previously struck a deal with Marvel Comics-owned ToyBiz for production of action figures and accessories. While that line had a large following and produced many nice pieces, inconsistency with releases and distribution plagued the line eventually resulting in an early demise.

Nearly two years into the current licensees runs for both companies we've seen a mixed bag of results. Both companies have brought figures to the table that have been desired by collectors for many years. Both companies have also failed in ways that have once again alienated some collectors.

One victory that the WWE Classic Superstars line brought to the table was the return of collectors long gone. Fans who were no longer interested in the current product were suddenly able to obtain quality action figures of stars from years gone by. I've touted this fact before, but these gains to the genre have largely been ignored by both of the current companies. Jakks, who should know of this fact already, was the first to drop their "Legends of the Ring" TNA subset after the first series. While figures are still being released under this banner in other forms, series releases are no longer being produced. This all but guarantees that middle and under card names from wrestling's past will no longer be made into figures. This was a key factor in the popularity of the Classic Superstars line.

Mattel recently followed suit with their WWE Legends line by announcing that future figures will only be available on their collectors store website. Although other stars of the past will be featured elsewhere in their offerings, it is not the same as being able to obtain these figures at brick and mortar retail stores.

I fully understand that numbers both monetary and logistically are main factors, but it's crucial for the companies to know that there is a market for these figures. Mattel is currently basing their numbers on the failure of the WWE Legends Series 3 and Tag Team figure collections. These figures were clearly overproduced and, in the case of the tag teams, overpriced. Not to mention that most of the figures in both of these series were produced by Jakks a short time long ago. There is a reason that figures of Randy Savage and Ricky Steamboat have sold as well as they have. Neither man had a figure in years. This is also the reason that the Classic Superstars figures of such men as Lanny "The Genius" Poffo, Ron Bass, and The Barbarian sold briskly and are popular to this day. Fans want new characters...not rehashes of figures that didn't sell very well in the first place.

One complaint of many fans that Jakks seems to be handling better than Mattel at this time is the inclusion of female figures. Fans have requested female figures in toy lines going back decades. The excuse the companies gave has always been the same--female figures "don't sell" in "boys" toy lines. I've never known this to be the case and have always viewed it as a very flimsy excuse.

In the past twelve months Jakks has released their first three Knockout figures with several more planned. The likenesses on all three (Velvet Sky, Daffney, and Angelina Love) have been nothing short of amazing and are true highlights of the Jakks TNA, now Impact Wrestling, figure line.

Mattel, while releasing Diva figures, have taken more of the traditional approach and hesitated to release females. Although several have been released, they are short packed in the shipping cases. The company has cited both the "female figures don't sell" myth and the failure of their first Diva offering, Mickie James, as reasons to shortchange the ladies. The Mickie James figure was not only released after her departure from the company, but it also barely resembled the ladies champion.

On the positive side we have seen some very nice releases on both sides. Mattel is steadily introducing new characters into the line. Figures of the original Nexus, Internet sensation Zack Ryder, and continual new figures of Randy Savage have all graced collections. Alberto Del Rio already has several releases and Sin Cara is said to be fast on the horizon for 2012. Heavy hinting and rumors of a long awaited Miss Elizabeth figure may also be available from Mattel within the next twelve months.

Jakks has also delivered some nice TNA/Impact product, but the continuous production and distribution problems which I've chronicled before are still an issue. Series release dates continue to be pushed back as the list of vendors carrying the product dwindles. Figures such as the aforementioned Knockouts, Sting figures of various designs, and online retailer exclusives have kept fans happy but not exactly satisfied. With the amazing crop of talent under contract to the company, Jakks is not even scratching the surface of what they could do with the license. This company knows how to utilize it as they showed for nearly fifteen years with WWE. They can't let us down now.

What would you like to see these companies do with the WWE and TNA licenses? I know that you all have ideas and I'm sure that Jakks and Mattel would love feedback from the most intelligent wrestling collectors on the planet. Feel free to share your thoughts either here or on our Facebook Fanpage and I will pass them along! You, the consumer, should be their most important decision maker.

Wrestling MarketWatch: High End Hijinx

2011-09-13T19:21:00.012-04:00

With the financial state that pretty much the entire world is in, it should be amazing to anyone that many collectibles are still selling for the prices that they do. While I'll still argue that it's a buyers market as far as wrestling memorabilia is concerned, many items are still getting well over $50 in the secondary market.

In this installment of our recurring "Wrestling MarketWatch" series, I'll take a look at some of the recent selling prices on various items that have went above and beyond what many would think their value might be. As always, I caution that "value" is simply what someone is willing to pay for an item at a specific time. Should you go to sell the exact same item you may not get nearly the same price. It's all about supply, demand, and advertising/describing the item properly.

*We'll start with a perennial favorite among both wrestling collectors and children of the early '90s who've grown up and want their toys back. The Tonka WWF Wrestling Buddies have stood the test of time in terms and popularity...and durability. While these toys do fetch high prices there are also a ton of them out there. That can only bring one conclusion: fans simply like these things! What's not to like? Fun cartoonish caricatures of your favorite early '90s WWF stars that are sized and made to be WRESTLED with. While prices vary depending on which wrestler it is, the very popular Ultimate Warrior buddy has recently been selling for around $50 out of the box. If you've got the box, the Warrior and other stars can soar to $100 and beyond.

*Back to the year 1966 and cartoon characters of a different kind. While Bruno Sammartino ruled the northeast, he obviously couldn't be the sole hero of the area with the evil threats of Killer Kowalski, Gorilla Monsoon, and other villains of the mat. In Pittsburgh, the champ had help and an ally in the form of The Battman. No, not Batman. The Battman. Yeah. Trademarks you know. Well, the original outfit (and sidekick) would've never stood up in court these days, but nonetheless the Pittsburgh area had its own wrestling Dynamic Duo. Veteran wrestler Tony Marino virtually had a second career portraying the ring's version of the Caped Crusader. To this day, the 80-year-old Marino wears Bat Signal-shaped hair on the back of his head. Back in '66, the character made the cover of the October issue of Wrestling Revue magazine. Although certain covers of the now-defunct magazine have always sold well, this particular copy of the magazine recently sold for an amazing $202! Holy Rasslin' Relics!

*Although they didn't have quite the marketing machine of the WWF at the time, Jim Crockett Promotions produced a nice selection of merchandise that has become much sought after in recent years. The last major merchandising venture that Crockett would embark upon before being bought out by Ted Turner was a partnership with Wonderama International. The company ended up producing a set of NWA Wrestling Supercards. Featuring The Four Horsemen, Dusty Rhodes, Sting, The Road Warriors and hordes of others, the set is massive (around 350 cards) and, due in part to the offbeat nature of some of the photos used on the cards, a load of fun to collect. Since the set is indeed so massive, the easiest way to obtain one is by purchasing a complete set. These sets often include original cardboard boxes designed for the cards. Recently a set with box sold for $65. Although that isn't quite pocket change these days, I still advise collectors to pick this set up when they see it.

*I've discussed the WWWF Wrestling Action magazine quite a few times. It's a five issue set that just happens to be the first publication sanctioned by the WWWF. Prices have never been stable on these ranging from $10 to well over $100 for each issue depending on when you decide to buy. All five issues, as described here, have amazing covers chronicling the late '70s WWWF. The last issue, which is actually under the WWF banner, recently sold for $53. This and other recent prices for the magazines indicate to me that demand is on the rise again. While each issue shows up on occasion by no means are they common.

*Finally we come to a favorite of so many collectors: the LJN WWF figure line. Like with so many collectibles, packaging can often be the key to value. The LJN tag team figures greatly resemble this remark. Although the tag team sets show up somewhat frequently and usually obtain several hundred dollars each, the tag team figures packaged on cards and sold separately are a whole different story. The Killer Bees, Hart Foundation, and Strike Force individually carded would be a treasure to anyone but The British Bulldogs have become the most fabled of them all. The figures are even backed on Hulk Hogan card backs as opposed to having "clip and save" file cards of Davey Boy Smith and Dynamite Kid. Examples of each were recently sold at auction for $1,700 (Davey) and $1,009 (Dynamite) respectively marking the highest known prices for individually sold wrestling figures in recent memory.

What kind of treasures do you have stashed away? Would they carry the monetary bite of the Bulldogs or the ultimate popularity of Wrestling Buddies? As I always remind everyone, the true value is how much it's worth to you as an item. You can't go wrong investing in what YOU like. Holy Final Thought!

****"From The Musty, Yellowed Pages..."****

WWE Magazine, March 2007, Page 12

Although the pages of a four-year-old magazine probably aren't quite yellowed, I could think of no better "Musty, Yellowed Pages" segment to tie in with the recent selling price of the LJN Dynamite Kid.

In '07 the publishers of WWE Magazine decided to use a few photos of some of my items. I decided to highlight the Dynamite Kid LJN figure, as even toy magazine price guides were listing astronomical values for the figure and I myself had seen less than five examples of the piece. Despite TWO fact checking calls from the magazine, they still misquoted me by proclaiming the figure to be a "rare one-of-five" figure. I had told the magazine on three occasions that I had only ever SEEN around five or less in my collecting years. To this day I have still only seen around eight floating around, although I'd guess that a few more do exist.

Regardless of their mistake, I was still honored to be in the magazine. Now I'm writing about them. Coming full circle? Maybe.

Raven Figures...You Gotta Keep 'Em Separated

2011-09-07T18:22:00.011-04:00

Anyone who had an action figure made under the WWF, WCW, ECW, and TNA banners has obviously had an extensive and storied career. Raven was the first (and thus far only) wrestler to achieve this, but just looking at the man himself will tell you he's no stranger to the wilder side of pro wrestling.

From the birth of the Raven character in mid-90's ECW, fans immediately took to the character and rightfully so. Although there were fans of Scott Levy's previous characters such as Johnny Polo and Scotty Flamingo, it was Raven that provided some of the industry's most memorable and controversial moments of the 1990's.

Some would argue that a watered down version of Raven is all that fans got to see in WCW, WWF, and TNA. The fact of the matter is that Raven's exploits are still among the most talked about WCW moments in a sometimes creatively challenged period for the company.

Raven is successful because fans believe in the character. Even with all of the shoot interviews and behind-the-scenes DVDs that Levy has participated in, a fan could attend a wrestling event featuring Raven tomorrow and immediately be brought back into "The Flock." Raven has an "it" factor that many will not find throughout their careers. This is also why Raven is a favorite among the wrestling convention scene.

At a recent appearance I had the opportunity to obtain a production sample of the newest Raven figure directly from the man himself. This was my first chance to see the figure in person and although many figures have been produced of the character, I believe that this Raven soars above the rest.

I was finally able to obtain a regular version to open and review. Despite a strong initial showing of their Legends of the Ring line, Jakks opted to change their release format to including one Legends of the Ring figure per regular TNA "Deluxe" figure series. It should be noted from the beginning that the Legends figure in each series is NOT a "Deluxe" style figure but rather a "Ruthless Aggression" style figure just like the legendary Jakks WWE Classic Superstars line.

With that being said, longtime readers will realize that I was thrilled with this figure from the start. Although it is a "Legends" figure, this Raven is based on a more recent look. With dreadlocks, eye paint, and full arm tattoos, I don't think that there will be any complaints as far as detailing. I would venture to guess that the face is actually a scan rather than a sculpt and there are no complaints as far as likeness either.

The first thing noticeable when seeing this figure is the leather jacket. Although past Raven figures have had leather jackets, they have always been molded on. This jacket is easily removable and doing so reveals the aforementioned tattoos.

Height is something that both the Toybiz and now Jakks TNA lines have struggled with. For Jakks, the problem is partially that some figures are done in the "Deluxe" style and others in the "Ruthless Aggression" style as mentioned above. Production problems or laziness aside, it's caused some weird products such as Amazing Red being as tall as any other male figure in the line.

To be honest, I believe that most collectors will be buying this figure to integrate into their Classic Superstars collection. It fits right in and, although the look isn't quite ECW, will fit right in with the Classic Superstars Taz and Sabu figures.

I recommend purchasing any "Ruthless Aggression" style figure as it is what so many collectors prefer. Jakks had the perfect balance of articulation and realism with this style of action figure and largely abandoned it in favor of the "Deluxe" style which are far too jointed and gimmicky. Many of Mattel's WWE line are the same way. All I ask for the companies to remember is the magic provided to children by LJN, Remco, Galoob, and Hasbro with their less articulated and far more imaginative figure lines. Times may change, but there is a reason that those figures are so coveted by collectors today. In twenty years how well will "Deluxe" and "Elite" monstrosities be remembered?

At least we can enjoy figures like this Raven. With the very odd distribution of the Jakks TNA line in 2011, it's safest to grab the ones that you like while you can. The next series (slated to include the very first figure of Terry Taylor as the Legends of the Ring addition) has been repeatedly pushed back and will not likely see collectors hands until 2012 at the earliest.

Quote the Raven...

"The Lariat" Knocks Heads Off Of Readers Everywhere

2011-08-31T18:13:00.009-04:00

It's nearly impossible to read every single wrestling book available out there. Before Mick Foley made it "fashionable" for wrestlers to write, you could've easily devoured every book written about the squared circle in less than a week. For the past decade it seems that grapplers from all eras and levels of stardom have thrown their hats into the literary ring.

While some have been very good and others pure rubbish, it's good to know in advance just which ones are going to be worth investing your time into. It's become widely known that wrestling books published by Scott Teal's Crowbar Press are by and large going to be worth every penny you pay for the book as well as each second you devote to reading it.

With books written by such names as J.J. Dillon, Ole Anderson, Tony Atlas, and The Assassin, Crowbar Press has carved a reputation for publishing books that tell good stories and the honest truth. Well, we all know that wrestlers have the reputation to embellish stories just a bit, but you can rest assured that the tales are told without any agenda or edits due to "company policy." While the WWE has released many good titles under their publishing umbrella, most of the company's books leave you wondering just what stories the higher-ups simply didn't want told. In other words, a book by the infamously frank Ole Anderson would have never seen the light of day if it weren't for publishing houses such as Crowbar.

The Crowbar Press books also, largely in part due to their individual authors, usually take you back to a specific point in the history of the wrestling industry. Obviously the wrestlers entire stories are told, but most of these stars spent large portions of their career in a certain territory or era. In many of these cases, stories from these particular vantage points have rarely been told. For example, while stories from the mid-'80s Jim Crockett Promotions era have been told far and wide, Ole Anderson's book spends a lot of time covering his ownership of Georgia Championship Wrestling. Similarly, James J. Dillon's book details his time working side by side with Vince McMahon in the late '80s and early '90s covering a time period rarely documented to fans.

The latest effort from Crowbar Press is no different and may just be their best book yet. Earlier this month at NWA Fanfest in Atlanta, fans were treated to an exclusive early release of "The Last Outlaw" by Stan Hansen. Hansen, who was on hand to sign the books, seemed just as excited about the release as the fans were.

At over 400 pages "The Last Outlaw" is no short read, but you may not be able to pry yourself away. Similar to the books described above, Hansen's story does indeed cover his entire career, but also covers an area never described in so much detail before: the life of an American wrestler in Japan.

Hansen's career as a "gaijin" (the Japanese word for foreigner) makes this book different from any other wrestling book from the start. The fact that he may have been the most successful gaijin wrestler of all-time takes it to a whole different level. Hansen wasn't just another wrestler in the Land of the Rising Sun, "The Lariat" was a bonafide star. Dealing with the mysterious fathers of puroresu (Japanese wrestling) such as Antonio Inoki and Giant Baba are things that many wrestlers were not privy to, much less fans.

Hansen takes you inside the exciting, glamorous, and sometimes very lonely world of a wrestling superstar in Japan. From touring the country to interacting with fellow wrestlers and fans as well as food and culture, the book explores a world unknown to most of us. And if you've ever had the opportunity to consume Japanese Sapporo beer in the past, you'll be craving it again after finishing this book.

Hansen's journey has many turns outside of Japan as well, including a promising football career at West Texas State (meeting The Funk's, Ted DiBiase, and longtime friend Bruiser Brody) and stints in the wrestling territories including the WWWF, WCW, and AWA.

What about the story of Hansen and the AWA belt? The "tobacco juice" run in WCW? Breaking Bruno's neck at MSG? It's all here. Fans of late stars such as Brody, Terry Gordy, and Steve "Dr. Death" Williams won't want to pass this one up either.

Although Crowbar Press books are usually tightly edited, perhaps an approaching deadline or wanting to keep a "stream of consciousness" in the book causes many things to repeated as much as four times. I enjoy getting more bang for my buck, but the book probably could've shed about 15 pages had some sentences (and a paragraph at one or two points) not been repeated. It's a minor complaint overall and doesn't detract from this book's place in the list of "Best Wrestling Books."

Overall, Hansen comes across as a very level-minded and likeable guy. Each time that I've had the opportunity to meet with him, he's come across this way as well. What's not to like about a man who became a star in his profession in two countries and knew just the right time to leave it behind? Two thumbs up for "The Last Outlaw" which can be purchased (and probably autographed like most of their publications) at CrowbarPress.com.

Don't forget that this blog has been nominated in the "Everything Else" category in CBS Pittsburgh's "2011 Most Valuable Blogger Awards." By following this link, you can vote once a day! I appreciate each and every vote and thank you for voting and as always for reading!

Donna Christanello 1942-2011

2011-08-25T19:41:00.011-04:00

It seems as if just as we resign to the thought of a wrestling hero passing yet another is taken from us. I don't care to remember how many years in a row this has been the case, as it has been far too many.

Just a few short hours ago, many of us fans learned of the passing of yet another wrestling legend. The losses seem to get tougher and tougher. For me, this is very much the case.

Donna Alfonsi, a pioneer in women's wrestling, passed away today at the age of 69. In the industry, Donna went by the last name of Christanello, Christianello, or even Christentello depending on where you saw her perform. In real life, she only asked that you call her Donna.

A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Donna caught the wrestling bug sometime in the 1960's while attending matches with a friend. Shortly thereafter, Donna was trained by The Fabulous Moolah and began not only her career but also a lifelong friendship. In an article on WWE's website shortly after Moolah's death, Donna proclaimed her mentor to be her "chosen sister." In her autobiography, Moolah had similar terms of endearment for her protege.

In the '60s and '70s, Donna dominated the singles and tag team scenes in women's wrestling. Donna and longtime partner Toni Rose held the Women's Tag Team Championship for many years and are closely associated with the titles to this day.

Donna would go on to assist Moolah in training many other female stars of the industry, but her career was not nearly over. In the 1980's, Donna made many appearances in the WWF. A quick search of YouTube will unearth many treasures including a pinfall victory over Wendi Richter, who at the time was red hot due to her association with Cyndi Lauper. Donna will also always be remembered for her appearance in the very first Survivor Series pay-per-view event.

From speaking to many of her colleagues over the years, it was obvious that Donna was a very beloved individual. I feel so very fortunate that I was able to find this out for myself.

Several years ago, the KSWA promotion here in Pittsburgh brought in Demolition for one of their shows. Before the event, Ax and Smash were set up near ringside meeting their fans. After my friends and I had visited with the legendary tag team, I noticed a familiar looking woman going up to see them. For a moment, I thought that the woman was Donna Christanello. Not wanting to pass up a chance to meet her, I approached the woman. That night, I did indeed meet the pioneering ladies star and came away with an autograph as well as a photo.

Donna and her niece (former wrestler Angie Minelli) attended many of the KSWA shows after that and I always took the opportunity to stop and chat. Donna would ask how I was doing with my writing and was always more than happy to sign autographs and pose for pictures.

A particularly memorable night was when the KSWA inducted Donna into their Hall of Fame. Many of Donna's family members came out for the honor, but one of her most lovable traits was present as well: her humbleness. A pioneer in her industry, member of several Hall of Fame's (including the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame), and definable legend, visiting with Donna was more like spending time with an aunt than a Hall of Fame wrestler.

It was a mere two months ago that I last had the pleasure of seeing Donna. For several weeks my job brought me very near to Donna's workplace and I had the opportunity to visit her on several occasions. Greeting me with a big smile and a "Hi Josh!," I hope that our short chats brightened her day as much as they did mine. I had some memorabilia from her career and told her that I hoped to give them to her the next time we saw each other outside of our respective jobs. Sadly, that was not to be.

I could probably go on forever about what a special lady we've lost tonight, but I will confine my thoughts to only a few more paragraphs.

In Donna's memory, I think that everyone should seek out to learn more about her amazing career. In addition to the match that I mentioned above, several of Donna's other matches are available on YouTube. One pitting Donna and Toni against Joyce Grable and Vicki Williams is particularly memorable and will show you just how underrated the ladies were in the 1970's. Be sure to also check out Donna's official site which is run by a great guy, wrestler, and friend of Donna's by the name of Shawn Blanchard. Many of Donna's personal photos are included and take you through her entire career. The site can be found at: http://www.donnachristantello.vze.com/

If her friends and fans feel this stunned, shocked, and saddened, I cannot begin to imagine how her family feels. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with them tonight.

I think that I will most remember Donna for being as humble as she was. Unlike so many other stars of the wrestling industry, Donna was the most down-to-earth lady you would ever have the pleasure of meeting.

Miss Donna Alfonsi, you'll always be our star. Your fans and friends love you...

...till we meet again. Goodnight, my lady.

Bruno! Bruno! Bruno!

2011-08-21T14:56:00.011-04:00

I've been known to cover Bruno Sammartino and Pittsburgh wrestling fairly frequently here, but why not? For various reasons Pittsburgh is one of the least covered classic wrestling territories. The area had all of the in-ring action like the west coast and the unpredictable characters like the south. I'd also put the blue collar steel worker toughness up against that of the Texas roughneck stars any day. So why is Pittsburgh all but "forgotten?"

Unlike most of the territories that fell sometime in the 1980's, the true blue Pittsburgh wrestling office ceased to exist in the early 1970's for all intents and purposes. While lots of television and arena footage is still collected and traded of Charlotte, Florida, Minneapolis, and New York, the Pittsburgh action is only replayed in the memories of those who originally viewed it.

While the footage is lost to time, there are many still determined to keep the memories of Bruno and his friends and foes alive as long as there are fans of old school wrestling.

Earlier this summer I wrote of the many Studio Wrestling reunion appearances that have been made over the past couple of years in the Pittsburgh area. Large crowds have turned out for each one proving that Pittsburgh wrestling does have the lasting appeal of which I speak. Attending them myself, I've had the opportunity to have many of the classic Bruno and Pittsburgh relics autographed. While more items were produced than one would think, very few survive so many decades later. Fans who attend the events simply to meet their heroes are often astounded that these items still exist.

Bruno Sammartino himself was one of the earliest marketed stars in the industry. Dating back to his very first magazine cover in March of 1960, Bruno obviously equaled green at the newsstands. In his autobiography, a photo of Sammartino sitting with a group of magazines is captioned "I must have been on more magazine covers than Elvis!" Whether that is true or not, Bruno was certainly on more wrestling magazine covers than most of his contemporaries.

Wrestling World, Wrestling Revue, The Wrestling News, The Wrestler, and later Pro Wrestling Illustrated are just a few of the covers in which Bruno graced. The publishers of The Wrestling News even released several publications devoted solely to the Italian-born champion.

After his final departure from the WWF in 1988, Bruno merchandise continued to be in demand. A deal with Pittsburgh-based Imagine Inc. produced not only an autobiography of The Living Legend but also a Wrestling Legends trading card series with heavy imput from the champ. An in-depth look at this deal and the card series was the subject of a previous entry.

My personal favorite Bruno collectibles actually cover the entire spectrum of classic Pittsburgh wrestling. In the 1960's, a series of five photo albums entitled "Tri-State Wrestling" were released by the Pittsburgh wrestling office. The first dates to just before Bruno defeated Buddy Rogers for the WWWF Championship and is the only one not to feature Sammartino on the cover. Stars that made an impact on Pittsburgh such as The Battman, Gorilla Monsoon, George Steele, Johnny DeFazio, Lou Albano, and Toru Tanaka grace the inside pages as do stars such as The Kangaroos, Bobo Brazil, Edouard Carpentier, and Wahoo McDaniel who were known more for their work nationally.

The albums were advertised on the Studio Wrestling television show and viewers were encouraged to order them directly. While they do appear for auction occasionally, they are by no means easy to acquire. One collectors note is that it seems many fans would take these to both Studio Wrestling television tapings and to spot shows all around western Pennsylvania. Because of this it is not unusual to find these publications adorned with authentic autographs.

As I touched on above, publications such as the Tri-State albums, event programs, and photos are just about all that is left from such an action packed era. It is comforting to know that many of the era's stars and key players are also still with us to meet and share stories and memories from the glory years. For a fan such as myself who previously only had memories of family members of which to imagine the Pittsburgh wrestling dynasty, talking with these legends is both a treat and an honor.

As for the champ himself, Mr. Sammartino is still going strong at age 75. A recent heart valve replacement surgery wasn't enough to even slow Sammartino down. Just a few months later, The Living Legend was back greeting his fans at yet another Studio Wrestling reunion discussing the old days and a seemingly endless stream of new projects which we can all look forward to.

Memphis. Florida. Charlotte. Calgary. You were all great wrestling territories, but it's time to make a little room on the pedestal for another great hotbed--Pittsburgh.

Speaking of Pittsburgh, this very blog has been nominated in the "Everything Else" category in CBS Pittsburgh's "2011 Most Valuable Blogger Awards." By following this link, you can vote once a day! I appreciate each and every vote and thank you for voting and as always for reading!

Fanfest '11: The Aftermath

2011-08-14T18:40:00.017-04:00

The phrase "a great time was had by all" may be overused, but it is certainly a fitting description of NWA Legends Fanfest 2011. Old friendships were renewed. New friendships were formed. Dreams came true. Treasures were uncovered. Memories were celebrated.

The event kicked off Thursday night with a trio of question and answer sessions. Bill "Masked Superstar/Demolition Ax" Eadie was up first sharing stories and memories of his entire career including great stories of friends and colleagues.

The second session featured controversial wrestlers "Dr. D" David Schultz and "Continental Lover" Eddie Mansfield. Both well remembered for their 1985 "20/20" television appearances, Mansfield did not entirely endear himself to the crowd with outspoken and long winded opinions. Schultz, on the other hand, chose his words wisely and came off to fans as a man very satisfied with how his life turned out. Mansfield seemed eager to convince not only the audience but himself that he had the same feeling regarding his own path.

The night wrapped up with a great showing from one of the all-time legends, Stan "The Lariat" Hansen. For a man who is usually quiet outside of the ring, Hansen was very humorous and lighthearted in his stories of the squared circle.

Friday kicked off with an opening look at the vendor room and a very special opportunity. Hansen's new autobiography was available for the first time with the legend present to autograph every copy. Most fans were unable to pass up a deal such as that.

While vendor tables were fewer in number than in previous years, there were still many treasures to be had. The original Michael Hayes "Off The Streets" LP and a production sample of the new Jakks Legends of the Ring Raven figure (purchased from the man himself) are just two of the items that I was able to covet. Hard-to-find publications, ring-worn gear, and even highly desired Wrestling All-Stars trading cards were also being offered with the latter going for as low as $1 per card.

Legends of not only Georgia Championship Wrestling but the entire wrestling world began to appear in both the main and autograph rooms. Ole Anderson, Mr. Wrestling II, Thunderbolt Patterson, Ron Simmons, Greg Valentine, and Jimmy Snuka were among the names available to meet.

Friday night was capped off by the annual Hall of Heroes banquet and induction ceremony. This year my friends and I were joined by some of the legends of ladies wrestling including Joyce Grable, Judy Martin, and Leilani Kai. Miss Kai, who was interviewed in our preview entry, was brand new to the wrestling convention scene and seemed to have an absolute blast. I've far kept it from secret that meeting the former WWF Women's Champion was a Fanfest opportunity which I was most looking forward to. The "Glamour Girl" went above and beyond for her fans and I'm certain that we've not seen the last of "The Hawaiian Princess!"

After the dinner was completed, James J. Dillon took the stage to induct the 2011 NWA Hall of Heroes Class. Superb inductions were made for Gordon Solie, Ronnie Garvin, The Assassins, Ted Turner, Ray Stevens, and Masked Superstar, but the highlight of the night for many was Sir Oliver Humperdink's special moment. Passing away earlier this year, Sir Oliver may not have been physically present to accept his honor but no one could have given the legendary manager a more dignified and touching induction than longtime friends Mick Karch and Diamond Dallas Page. Through their words and memories every fan could feel Humperdink's presence in the room, likely flanked by old friend Gary Hart.

Saturday featured opportunities to meet many more legends including rare appearances by Bobby "The Brain" Heenan, "Superstar" Bill Dundee, Dick Slater. Paul Orndorff gave an amazing scoop to legendary wrestling journalist Bill Apter. "Mr. Wonderful," looking in great shape, announced that he was indeed cancer-free. His WrestleMania partner, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, himself a survivor of the disease, also made several appearances throughout the day. The coolest event surrounding "Hot Rod" was a photo op including his Starrcade '83 opponent Greg Valentine and the original dog collars used in that brutal contest.

The majority of the wrestlers at Fanfest look forward to the event as much as the fans. One superstar who has been clamoring to attend the event for years is Rob Van Dam. Because of RVD's busy schedule, a Fanfest appearance simply hasn't been in the cards--until 2011. RVD's enthusiasm and love of the business showed as he met with each and every fan in addition to many legends. Also like many of the other wrestlers, Van Dam was captivated by each and every piece of memorabilia that he autographed.

There are also always "surprise" guests that show up. From wrestlers tagging along for the ride with another colleague to ones simply coming to visit old friends, you never know just who might pop up at Fanfest. This year my favorite "bonus" meeting was with midget wrestling legend Darling Dagmar. A sweet and gracious lady, Dagmar had an extensive wrestling career and was simply happy to be there visiting friends. I hope more fans than just myself took the opportunity to ask for a photo and autograph from this legend who was more than happy to oblige.

Saturday night saw an off-site card of matches featuring current indy competitors such as Adam Pearce, Colt Cabana, Reid Flair, and Gunner. When that was all said and done, the "main event" for many came in the form of Roddy Piper spinning yarns in the form of a show entitled "All My Rowdy Friends." Reading Piper's tales is one thing, getting to hear the master himself tell the stories in uncensored form makes for a night that wrestling fans will treasure forever.

Sunday saw a quiet last day but definitely had no lack of star power. Tully Blanchard, Baby Doll, Masked Superstar, Tony Atlas, and "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase were among the signers for the morning with DiBiase returning for a Sunday worship service later that day.

I honestly cannot cover everything that went on at Fanfest nor could I even begin to convey the fun and unforgettable experience that it truly is. Promoter Greg Price has said that the 2012 Fanfest (back in its home city of Charlotte) may very well be the last. With five different Fanfest events under my belt, I know that come Hell or high water I'll be there to feel that indescribable feeling one more time.

Hitting The Home Stretch To Fanfest 2011

2011-07-31T15:47:00.016-04:00

Over the past couple of months it's come to my attention that many readers have discovered this blog while searching for information on NWA Fanfest. Although the best route for info on the event is the official site, I'm very happy to know that people are getting to see first hand perspectives of the last two Fanfest weekends right here. It really isn't a hard message to convey. For those who've experienced the event before, you know that the memories alone are enough to keep you coming back each year. You also aren't getting any sleep this week in anticipation of this year's installment.

It seems like everyone has that one particular item of interest at Fanfest. The event is designed to appeal to all wrestling fans. If one activity or name isn't your personal cup of tea, ten other options will be offered to your liking. Not an autograph fan? How about a photo opportunity with your favorite star? Interactive question and answer session? Live wrestling card? Each and every wrestling fan will go home satisfied.

While there are names who've become "staples" at Fanfest over the years, promoter Greg Price goes above and beyond to include stars who may not only be brand new to this event but to any wrestling convention. Later this week in Atlanta, most fans will get their first opportunity to meet legendary ladies star Leilani Kai.

From being one of The Fabulous Moolah's top pupils in the 1970's to runs as WWF Women's Champion and co-holder of the WWF Women's Tag Team Championship in the 1980's, Kai has made very few public appearances in recent years. Fanfest will reunite Kai not only with her fans but also former "Glamour Girl" partner Judy Martin.

"Greg Price called me and suggested that I be a part of Fanfest. Greg is a long time friend and top notch promoter," said Kai. "Also, I've heard stories from dear friends and fans about how much fun the event is. It gives us a chance to spend time with friends and fans alike."

Meeting the stars themselves is always the top thrill, but seeing them reunite with former friends and colleagues can be equally as thrilling. Ms. Kai says that she has heroes that she herself looked up to in the business.

"Penny Banner, Ann Casey, Joyce Grable, Steve Regal," recalled Kai. "The Honky Tonk Man is (also) a great performer who I always enjoyed watching."

It cannot be understated that Fanfest is more than just obtaining an autograph. The weekend is designed to be able to chat and share some memories with your favorite star. Questions ranging from "Would you consider a return to the ring?" to "Do you still follow the sport?" are often asked.

"Wrestling is a sport that most don't ever retire from," offered Kai. "I keep my eyes on all the talent out there and there are more than a few lady wrestlers that I would love to step in the ring with. Santana G, The Great Cheyenne, and Sara Del Rey all come to mind."

Ms. Kai obviously has her mind on the future both in and out of the ring. Her fans are simply grateful that the former WWF and NWA champion will be coming out to meet them. If hearing from the legend herself still isn't enough to bring you to Atlanta, she would like to pass along a message.

"Thank you for the support that you have given me over the years. For anyone that can't make it this year to Atlanta, next year's Fanfest is in Charlotte August 2nd-5th, 2012."

The Hawaiian Princess of wrestling has her pulse on Fanfest, shouldn't you?

Visit NWALegends.com for more information. See you in Atlanta!

Just An Old Sweet Song, Keeps Georgia (Wrestling) On My Mind...

2011-07-28T22:11:00.018-04:00

Each year around this time I become nothing more than a walking advertisement. In turn, this blog becomes an advertisement. It's nothing that I'm paid for, just something that I believe in. If you don't believe in what you're promoting, no one is going to believe your words. I can honestly tell you that the weekends I've spent at the NWA Legends Fanfest were some of the greatest in my life.

On August 4th thru 7th, Fanfest returns yet again to provide another dream wrestling weekend. This year the event so closely associated with Charlotte, NC ventures down to Atlanta, GA. Although the events are never officially themed, this year the flavor is most definitely that of the legendary Georgia Championship Wrestling promotion.

WWF, Crockett, Florida, Memphis, or even ECW fan? No worries. That's the beauty of Fanfest. No wrestling fan is left unsatisfied. This year's guest list? Rowdy Roddy Piper, Rob Van Dam, Nick Bockwinkel, Harley Race, Terry Funk, Dory Funk Jr., "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase, Mr. Wrestling II, Stan Hansen, Ron Simmons, Teddy Long, Judy Martin, Leilani Kai, Joyce Grable, Jimmy Snuka, Greg Valentine, Ron Garvin, Thunderbolt Patterson, Baby Doll, Tully Blanchard, JJ Dillon, Ole Anderson, Masked Superstar, Tony Atlas, The Assassin, David Schultz, Tim Brooks, Eddie Mansfield, Tommy Rich, Austin Idol, Gypsy Joe, Ron Bass, Moondog Rex, Buddy Colt, Lars Anderson, Ivan Koloff, The Mongolian Stomper, Big Mama, Pat & Randy Rose, Scrappy McGowan, Bill Apter, Joe Pedicino, and Boni Blackstone.

You want more?

Outside vendors will be bringing even more guests to meet the fans, take photos, and sign autographs. How about Jerry Lawler, Bobby Heenan, Dick Slater, Fit Finlay, Bill Dundee, The Rock & Roll Express, The Iron Sheik, Honky Tonk Man, Hacksaw Jim Duggan, Maria Kanellis, Manny Fernandez, Paul Bearer, Luke Gallows, Candi Devine, and Pampiro Firpo just to name a few? From the legendary to the modern to the absolute hardest names to meet on the convention scene, there really is something for everyone at Fanfest.

Meeting and greeting is just part of the greatness of Fanfest. Since the convention takes place from Thursday to Sunday, there are events scheduled throughout. Question and answer sessions, a true blue NWA wrestling event, and the famous Hall of Heroes banquet and induction ceremony are just a few of the highlights.

The Hall of Heroes is an especially unique event at each years Fanfest. After an amazing banquet where you will dine with a wrestling star at your table, several legendary names are inducted into the Hall of Heroes. The evening can prove to be very emotional and memorable as many of the stars are inducted posthumously. Some of the late stars were once even guests at Fanfest, bringing back personal memories for attendees themselves. This year the inductees are The Assassins, Ron Garvin, Sir Oliver Humperdink, Gordon Solie, Ray Stevens, The Masked Superstar, and Ted Turner.

The induction of Humperdink will be especially poignant as this is the first Fanfest since the legendary manager's untimely passing. Many Fanfest attendees have great memories of the man lovingly known as "Humpy" as he was a virtual staple of the event. I had the opportunity to share Mr. Humperdink's Hall of Heroes banquet table two years ago and feel honored to have had the chance. It will be another honor to be present at his own induction where I know that both he and his good friend Gary Hart will be in spirit.

A new addition this year is also one that has many fans buzzing. After a night of NWA wrestling at an off-site location, fans returning to the hotel will be treated to a night entitled "All My Rowdy Friends" starring the one and only Roddy Piper. Fans will also have photo opportunities to not only pose with Piper in his legendary Pit, but to also hold the Starrcade "dog collars" used by Piper and Greg Valentine...while standing next to the legends themselves.

If you haven't already made plans, what are you waiting for? Check out NWALegends.com for more information and stay tuned...more Fanfest memories, stories, and previews next time!

A Summer of Wrestling

2011-07-20T21:18:00.012-04:00

I'm not one to put something down just for the sake of doing so. I'll give credit where credit is due. While I'm no huge fan of the current wrestling scene it seems that this summer, in particular the last couple of weeks, everything is going right in the industry that we all know and love.

Coming off of a great pay-per-view event headlined by one of the greatest matches that I've ever seen, WWE finally seems to be understanding their audience. There has always been a way to present the product in order for all of their target viewers to get what they want out of it. Did it take an "approved shoot" promo and storyline involving CM Punk for the company to "get it?" Maybe. For all we know, this current wave of interesting angles and amazing in-ring action could end by next week. This time the WWE's signs of change just feel...different.

The unheard amount of in-ring action coupled with continued twists and turns concerning the future of the storyline side of WWE's authority figures made this past Monday's episode of Raw yet another glimmer of hope. Results from the taping of the next Smackdown episode seem similarly promising.

Aside from Punk's win, the winner of the Smackdown Money In The Bank match at the pay-per-view pleased many fans as well. Daniel Bryan, just highlighted on this very blog for the release of his first action figure, could very well be on his way to winning the approval of WWE fans the way that he captured independent fandom for so many years. Similar to the Punk situation, given the proper time and build Bryan has the opportunity to be another breakout star.

The pay-per-view also made headlines on the memorabilia front as well. An exclusive CM Punk shirt dated and emblazoned with the statement of "Best In The World" completely sold out at the live event in Chicago. Since then the shirt has sold on eBay for several hundred dollars. Fakes and unauthorized reproductions have already shown up on the auction site while the authentic versions continue to sell.

There's no doubt that the shirt is being coveted now, but my advice for anyone who's in possession of one and wants to make some money is to sell now. Just because the shirt is dated does not mean that WWE won't reproduce it. Since the event is most likely to become the defining moment in Punk's career, there would be no reason that WWE couldn't reproduce the shirt date included. As always, time is of the essence when trying to make a profit. With the DVD and Blu-Ray of the event already schedule for release on August 16, it would not surprise me to see a package deal of the event and shirt available for purchase on the WWE's shop website.

Elsewhere in the world of memorabilia comes this weekend's San Diego Comic Con. The SDCC has almost become a second Toy Fair where companies unveil their future products. Both Mattel and Jakks (for WWE and TNA respectively) are slated to have booths as well as stars from both companies making appearances. Video has already leaked showing a very brief glimpse of Mattel's WWE offerings. Certainly didn't look poultry...I mean...paltry!

Collectors are as interested in hearing from the companies as they are in seeing new product. The popular Legends lines from both manufacturers are rumored to be in jeopardy. Jakks continued production delays on all of their TNA products is another topic sure to be brought up by those attending the show.

And of course the arrival of August marks the annual NWA Fanfest. This year the event will be held in Atlanta, Georgia with more than 100 wrestling stars including "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, Rob Van Dam, Harley Race, Terry & Dory Funk, Nick Bockwinkel, Jimmy Snuka, Bobby "The Brain" Heenan, Ted DiBiase, Greg Valentine, Jerry Lawler, The Glamour Girls, and so many, many more! Over the years this event has meant more to me than any other wrestling related event that I have attended in my life. I'm definitely not alone in this feeling and will be marking my fifth Fanfest with a preview in an upcoming entry! If you've ever counted yourself a fan of Roddy Piper, you will not want to miss this event.

There's a reason why you are reading this and why any of the names mentioned in this entire text mean anything to you. You cared. Whether you cared twenty years ago, two hours ago, or never stopped caring, something in this industry captured your emotions. This summer, whether it be a fleeting moment or a feeling carried well into the future, you have a bevy of reasons to care once again. Wrestling is back.

CM Punk: Before The Collector's Cup

2011-07-13T19:50:00.007-04:00

There's certainly been a buzz around the activities on Monday Night Raw over the past few weeks. It hasn't been the matches, which have remained relatively the same. Rather it's been the words and actions of someone that I've been on the bandwagon of all along: CM Punk.

Remember how Jesse Ventura would brag that he was on the "Macho" bandwagon since day one? That's how I've been with CM Punk. JW is to Punk what Ventura is to Savage. Hmm. Not exactly the same I guess, but it works for me!

In all seriousness, CM Punk was on the very first indy card that I ever attended. Back then, no one could've predicted that he would one day make it to WWE, become champion, and go on to be the hottest name in the company during the summer of 2011. That said, even ten years ago he was a great young wrestler and very entertaining to boot.

There's speculation going every which way as to just how "real" Punk's threats of leaving the WWE are. It's been widely discussed that his contract with the company is indeed up, although at this point it seems very odd that the WWE would be putting this much emphasis on a man who is planning on abandoning the company in a few short weeks.

After last week, my vote would be to do a classic double turn. Many fans have been asking for a Cena heel turn for years. The alleged reasoning for holding back on this twist was reported as the company not wanting to give up the huge merchandising cash cow that Cena provides as the classic "good guy." If reports of Punk's merchandise completely selling out at this past Monday's Raw are true, the WWE just may have found their replacement.

Cena is the perfect corporate champion. How about Cena siding with Vince against Punk who would represent how the fans truly feel? The WWE has been wanting to recapture the Austin-Rock dynamic for a decade now. I see the answers standing in their very ring.

Regardless of how the Punk buzz turns out, the "Second City Saint" has had some nice memorabilia over the years--collectors cup and ice cream bar aside!

For those of you who haven't attended an independent show, it is not uncommon for the wrestlers on the card to peddle their own wares. The "gimmick table" where fans can buy photos, autographs, and other merchandise is a staple that not only pleases the fans but helps the often struggling young stars monetarily as well.

Punk was no different and in fact often had some of the nicer indy merchandise out there. Shirts, promotional photos, and even video tapes showing the "Straight Edge Superstar" against such stars as Low Ki, Colt Cabana, Rey Mysterio, and even Eddy Guerrero. I was fortunate enough to sit ringside for a Punk-Guerrero match that was held shortly after Guerrero's 2003 WWE return. Although the match was excellent, one of the best matches I've ever had the pleasure of watching live was between Punk and "Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels. This match, held on 9/28/02, was an iron man match and is worth tracking down for tape collectors and fans of both stars.

I've mentioned before that it honestly makes me a bit proud to see these young men, who I saw beginning their careers, not only make it to the "big time" but also see perks of immortality such as magazine covers and action figures. The very first CM Punk figure is still one of my favorites. Although many Punk figures have been released by 2011, the very first version is still the best. Produced by Jakks in 2007 for the WWE ECW line, this figure is the only one to feature the most realistic tattoo designs. Although the Pepsi and Cobra (G.I. Joe enemy) logos aren't perfect due to copyright, they ARE present unlike the rest of the Punk figures produced.

Punk also particularly shines in the merchandise aspect on the cover of the April 2010 WWE Magazine. Truthfully, the magazine has 26 different covers in all to celebrate WrestleMania XXVI, but the Punk cover is one of the best of the lot.

How about the best CM Punk collectible of all? Until the ice cream bar is produced, I have to be biased and go with a one-of-a-kind item. From ringside at an IWC event on 1/25/03, I snapped a photo that was caught out of pure luck. Punk is flying out of the ring towards his opponent then-IWC Heavyweight Champion Jimmy Vegas...and me! Although Punk did not win the match, he did sign the photo a few months later for me.

The sky is the limit for CM Punk. Although he is a veteran by now, I don't think that we have seen the best from this man.

After last Monday Night, I think we may even be seeing that ice cream bar and collectors cup...

Macho Madness Lives Forever

2011-07-07T21:37:00.014-04:00

To his legions of fans worldwide, it's still unreal to think that Randy Savage has passed away. A truly larger than life and seemingly invincible character, Savage and his "Macho Madness" phenomenon will go on as long as classic wrestling is remembered. This has already been proven by the many tributes and memories presented by family, friends, and fans in the period since Savage's death.

It's similarly unreal to think that just this past January, many factors had led fans to believe that 2011 would be a "comeback year" of sorts for Savage. A new action figure, a WWE video game appearance, and a reappearance of the reclusive icon himself truly gave fans hope. As we all know by now, this was simply not meant to be.

With the 2010 announcement of the Defining Moments Randy Savage figure, Mattel made it clear that more figures of the legend would be on the horizon. The first to hit stores was in a series of 2-packs packaging a legend and current star together to capitalize on the release of the WWE All-Stars video game. Savage, clad in green tights, was packaged with John Morrison. Many fans passed on this figure in favor of the figure to be released in Savage's iconic orange and yellow. This figure, in Mattel's WWE Legends Series 5, is our focus here.

While this series has been available for a few months now, many Toys "R" Us stores are receiving the wave as part of a Vince McMahon figure promotion. Select locations will have a cardboard corrugate display packed with a variety of Mattel's WWE toys. If certain figures (including WWE Legends, Defining Moments, and Deluxe) are purchased within a two month span, collectors can send away for a special figure of Mr. McMahon himself. This is the first figure of McMahon to be produced by Mattel and has collectors buzzing.

There's no better way to obtain the McMahon figure than purchasing figures of those who made his business what it is today. No one reflects this more than Randy Savage himself, especially during the era of which this figure represents.

Savage is most remembered wearing the orange tights around the time of his first WWF title reign. A pink variation on the tights came a bit earlier and was represented in the very first Randy Savage figure produced by LJN. The orange version was previous produced by Hasbro in 1990.

This Mattel production comes complete with removable sunglasses, "Macho Man" bandanna, and "Macho Man" t-shirt. The bandanna and shirt are amazingly detailed and are exact replicas of the actual items. For reference, the aforementioned All-Stars 2-pack version of this figure includes the bandanna and glasses but not the t-shirt.

The paint detailing is sharp and very accurate to the costume. "Tape" painted onto the hands is always welcome and seeing as that this is the same head sculpt as was used for the Defining Moments Savage, I'm still pleased. It's a great likeness and the holes used to hold the sunglasses on are again very unnoticeable when the glasses are removed.

I like this figure but I'm not as overwhelmed with it as I was with the Defining Moments figure. When both figures were announced, I thought for sure that I would prefer this version as this is my favorite look of the Macho Man.

As amazing as the t-shirt accessory is, I'm ultimately disappointed in its inclusion. I would've much preferred one of his robes from the era. Certainly a robe accessory made of a bit thinner material and some light decoration (think Jakks Classic Superstars Michael P.S. Hayes robe) wouldn't have upped production costs. In fact, costs may have been lower to produce a robe than they must've been to have replicated the t-shirt. Savage wore this shirt, but nowhere near as much as he did his robes.

This is a nice figure and certainly one that you'll want to pick up if you're going for the McMahon promotion. If you simply want a Mattel figure of Savage, you may want to look elsewhere. While a bit higher in price, the Defining Moments Savage is already my choice for figure of the year and has been since I first reviewed it. Mattel has already said that we have not seen the last of Savage in their WWE line. Personally, I'm hoping that this means we will be seeing another Savage figure from this era but this time with a robe. Time will tell.

If these figures prove anything it is that Randy Savage's legacy, even in merchandising, will be requiring a lot of "Pomp and Circumstance" for some time to come.

Ohhh yeah...

Hot Dogs, Apple Pie, & Wrestling

2011-07-04T15:13:00.024-04:00

There's just something about pro wrestling that exudes patriotism here in the United States of America. Sgt. Slaughter leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Hacksaw Jim Duggan chanting (and singing) the famous three letters. The pride (and vitamins) running through your veins while listening to "Real American."

Back in the "good ol' days" nothing was more American than packing up the family and friends, heading to the local venue, and enjoying a night of great wrestling action. Done at the right time in the 1980s, this could have meant attending a stop on the Great American Bash tour.

Twenty-four years ago today saw the Great American Bash tour host the very first War Games match in Atlanta, GA. Pitting two teams of five, War Games was both brutal and innovative. One huge cage. Two rings. Ten men. Although many great War Games matches have been held since, the original is still the best. The battle captured exactly why pro wrestling was loved by blue collar America. Blood, guts, brute strength, and the hard working common men (Rhodes, Road Warriors, Nikita) against the uppity showboat athletes (The Four Horsemen). It just doesn't get any better than that.

Some wrestlers carried their patriotic message far beyond the Fourth of July. Certainly Slaughter, Duggan, and Hogan would leap to mind as far as characters bleeding the red, white, and blue. Perhaps no one wore the countries' colors better than Del Wilkes, aka The Patriot. Be it in the GWF, WCW, or WWF, the masked star took a relatively dated gimmick and suddenly became relevant in a decade where the boundaries of good and evil were often blurred.

During his short WWF tenure, The Patriot had a particularly easy time capturing fan allegiance in his home country. In a sport known for its jingoistic showings, in 1997 a wrestling war began between the rather unlikely opponents of the United States and Canada. This conflict was ignited a star usually known for his universal appeal--Bret "The Hitman" Hart.

The Canadian Hart had recently reformed The Hart Foundation stable and in the midst of doing so began spouting anti-American rhetoric. The Patriot, new to the WWF scene, was able to capitalize on this and, until suffering a career-ending injury, became one of the WWF's top stars. One particular July evening in Pittsburgh on a live Monday Night Raw, The Patriot even scored a pinfall over The Hitman leading to one of the Steel City's most memorable modern wrestling moments.

Even the biggest wrestling event of the year has had patriotic overtones. WrestleMania VII in 1991 (subtitled "Superstars & Stripes Forever") featuring the Los Angeles Sports Arena decked out in red, white, and blue to witness Hulk Hogan attempt to regain the WWF Championship from Sgt. Slaughter. Slaughter, in a storyline that stirs controversy to this day, had recently turned on his beloved United States and sided with Saddam Hussein's Iraq. Hogan disposed Slaughter in typical Hulkster fashion and became champion for the third time covered in a crimson mask while waving Old Glory.

While many of us get patriotic feelings from the fictional battles recalled above, celebrating our freedom and remembering how we obtained that right is what it truly boils down to. For the better part of a decade, WWF/WWE has put on an annual holiday special for the U.S. Armed Forces entitled "Tribute to the Troops." Vince McMahon and many of his superstars have traveled overseas to visit with the troops and provide a bit of entertainment reminiscent of the ventures put forth by late comedian Bob Hope in years past. These events have provided much joy for the men and women in service and are a great example of the industry giving back.

Whether fireworks, barbeque, or just relaxing is on your list for today, have a great Independence Day...

...TOUGH GUY!

The Internet Darling Hits Retail

2011-06-27T22:04:00.015-04:00

It's very hard to fathom that a year has passed since the angle introducing Nexus began. The amazing momentum that got fans (including myself) talking may have fizzled out before the end of summer, but the fact that something as fun and relatively unique could still be done in this era of wrestling is reason enough to savor the memory.

One year later and figures of the original Nexus members are making their way into collections worldwide. Heath Slater (reviewed here) may have been the first, but the figure highlighted here today has the potential to be the most desired.

Although never a diehard indy wrestling fan, I know quality product when I see it. The closest I came to living and dying by the indy scene was following the IWC promotion here in Pittsburgh. For the better part of the last decade, IWC featured not only the biggest names available on the indy scene, but also hosted the hottest regional action to be found anywhere.

IWC allowed me to see stars such as CM Punk, Christopher Daniels, AJ Styles, and Samoa Joe live, in person, and in the beginning days of their careers. Seeing these wrestlers now getting magazine covers, trading cards, and action figures almost gives me my own sense of pride for them. Knowing how these stars earned their way into the proverbial "big time" makes watching them today just that much more exciting.

Where do the Nexus and the indy scene of the 2000s collide? Right at the feet of "American Dragon" Bryan Danielson. Or Daniel Bryan. Whichever name you prefer, the man has been deemed by many to be the greatest wrestler in the world. Finally, that man has an action figure.

Released as part of Mattel's WWE Basic Series 11, this figure will no doubt be one to grab as soon as you see it. Bryan's independent fans will want this figure just as much as his current fans floating in the orbit of the WWE Universe do.

Bryan has always been known for letting his wrestling do the talking. Basic tights, boots, and pads. If you ask me, a wrestler like this would be harder to capture in figure form. There's less to work with and therefore far less to screw up. Mattel, by and large, hits the mark.

I've long been a Jakks apologist. I still feel that their reign with the WWF/WWE license will be hard to ever beat. Had a Bryan figure been produced by both companies I do believe that I would be choosing the Mattel version. Being a relatively slight individual, Bryan is perfect for the slimmer design of the Mattel figures.

Although the torso does not appear to be original, it fits Bryan as do the arms and legs. While the facial likeness is extremely close, there's just something that's ever so slightly off. This could possibly be due to the hairstyle used. Coloring and design seems spot on. As I said earlier, there was much less to work with for Bryan to get the look down pat. Mattel has succeeded.

As I have in the past few Mattel reviews, I will again point out that the recent releases feel much less stiff in the joints than earlier offerings. Danielson, known for a wide array of holds and maneuvers, is ready to battle any monster, past or present, that the WWE is ready to throw at him.

Mattel is on a nice and steady roll with releases. Product is full of quality and hitting shelves quickly. While the future of their Legends line still concerns me, Mattel's coverage of the current WWE scene has been top notch as of late. I once again give the highest recommendation to pick up this figure. It's the rookie figure of a competitor who has already guaranteed his inclusion in the wrestling history books. He will always be remembered as the number one icon of the "Internet" era of wrestling fandom. If his WWE career goes through the roof (or the glass ceiling?) it will only build upon his previous accomplishments.

Cue "Ride of the Valkyries"...

Wrestling MarketWatch: What The World Was Watching!

2011-06-22T21:17:00.021-04:00

It never ceases to amaze me how every fan of wrestling has a different era that they consider "golden." This can be said for many different forms of entertainment and sports, however wrestling fans seem to be the most loyal to their respective favorites.

Fans of the '60s and '70s often find the '80s to be the decade marking the end of their fandom. The same can be said for fans of the "Rock 'n Wrestling" era that find the infamous "Attitude Era" a dark spot on the colorful legacy of the previous decade.

No matter which decade you prefer, dating back to the 1960's you will find a glorious selection of mat memorabilia sure to bring back memories and keep your favorite stars alive. Discussing those great collectibles is why we're here, and more than likely why you're here, too.

According to the WWF, the 1980's is when the world was watching. Of course, present-day WWE will imply the same thing (today it'd be the universe), but back then they actually came out and told you. In fact, it was none other than my "good, close, personal, longtime friend" Mean Gene Okerlund that informed us all of that. Give me a break! Are you putting me on?

Humorous "Gene Mean" quotes aside, if you talk to any child of the '80s they will prove to you that indeed the world was watching. Names like Brutus Beefcake and Koko B. Ware are just as well remembered as Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage. The figures we all know as the LJN WWF line are known by every male currently between the ages of 25-40 as "those big rubber wrestlers." In 1987, Christmas was the second most looked forward to event of the year. For so many, March 29 took precedence.

Yes indeed, the world was watching.

In this installment of MarketWatch, we look at just how valuable some of those great '80s WWF items currently are. A little of this, a little of that, and a word as to why personal value is more important than monetary gain.

*What better way to start than the most recognizable star of the era (and probably the entire industry) and the architect behind it all. The much discussed LJN WWF figure line often seems to follow a roller coaster ride of value. While carded examples of the figures don't usually fall below $40 for the most common, recent selling prices for Vince McMahon and the first release of Hulk Hogan have skyrocketed. Hogan recently sold for $195 while Vince saw a selling point of $96. The McMahon price is particularly striking as the manager and announcer figures often sell for $40-$50. This is due to the figures largely being "shelf warmers" in stores during the 1980's. Some Toys "R" Us stores were known to have had LJN manager figures on clearance as late as 1992!

*With the advent of digital entertainment, many of the WWF Coliseum Video VHS releases dramatically dropped in price. The Coliseum Videos were often also clipped leaving fans hungry for the full-length events that they originally viewed. Easier access to copies of the full-length events diminished demand as well. Nonetheless, some fans just have to have "official" copies with the original packaging. Who can blame them? The WWF's first advertised pay-per-view (WrestleMania I *was* available in a few trial markets) known as The Wrestling Classic recently sold for $45.00. The event features a tournament including The British Bulldogs, Ricky Steamboat, Junkyard Dog, and Randy Savage as well as a Hogan-Piper championship match.

*Programs of events are often as desirable as actual footage. WrestleMania programs are another animal that go up and down in price. WrestleMania IV was the event that ultimately introduced the "What The World Is Watching" slogan and therefore that is the program highlighted here. The program recently sold for $25 marking a higher trend than usual. The programs from WrestleMania's I thru IX are plentiful and are simply in higher demand at certain times.

*Another great publication of the era worth mentioning is the Superstars magazine. This was a yearly WWF publication featuring photos and text of most of the roster. This series continued into the '90s and similar magazines are produced to this day. Again, while the magazines are plentiful they often command a higher price than their monthly counterparts. The third installment, featuring a great cover shot of the Macho Man, recently sold for $25.

While I do enjoy providing info on the value of these items that so many of you own, I always like to take the time to remind every collector that personal value is what these things are truly worth. I always advise to collect what makes you happy, not something that you only like because others have it and/or want it.

While the items above are some currently higher priced examples, so many great collectibles from the 1980s WWF and any other era in professional wrestling can often be had for very affordable prices. This is especially true now when it's a buyers market. Items that sold for extreme prices during the "Monday Night Wars" can now be had for but a fraction. Remember...buy what YOU like!

****"From The Musty, Yellowed Pages..."****

WWF Magazine, December 1988, Merchandise Catalog

The merchandise catalog? What could possibly be in there? A ton of merchandise. But besides that, a humorous look at two members of wrestling's royal family. These "cameo appearances" are a bit more circulated than Taz's appearance that we highlighted awhile back, but still certainly worthy to be shown here.

The WWF Merchandise catalog was often as fun to look at as the rest of the WWF Magazine. Those great photos showing the wrestlers modeling their t-shirts. The sought-after wall posters. The Ultimate Warrior suck-cup. (Dusty's words!) All of that pales in comparison to the two models we'll be showing today.

Take a look at this page from the late '88-early '89 catalog. Take a good look. Who's the stern-faced Hogan shirt model? Who's that little girl wearing the Hogan cap? Why, it's the McMahon children! I believe their names are Shane and Stephanie. I wonder whatever happened to them?

And of course, no child is complete without a t-shirt of their favorite wrestling mascot, Matilda. There's little Stephanie again, showing allegiance to her favorite pooch. If Matilda ever gets kidnapped by a bleached blond manager and two island boys, you should send her a "Get Well" card. I bet that she'll compile a list of all of the nice children who send her a card and have lil Steph mail one of these catalogs as a "thank you."

The world was indeed watching. How could they avoid it?

What's George's Is Mine, & Mine Can Be Yours, Too!

2011-06-13T21:28:00.010-04:00

"You know that George 'The Animal' Steele is really a teacher, right?"

Surely I'm not the only one who heard that sentence time and time again growing up. Somehow, George Steele's career in academics was a well-known fact amongst children of the '80s and '90s. Maybe it was because the truth differed so much from the character we all knew and love.

George wasn't always an "Animal," though. Steele's original character was actually more of a beatnik, using phrases such as "Daddy-o" to punctuate his promos. Battling the likes of Bruno Sammartino and Gorilla Monsoon, George was a top of villain of the late '60s well into the 1970's. It was not until the 1980's "expansion" era that Steele became "The Animal" that so many of us know and love.

Although initially a Hulk Hogan nemesis managed by Mr. Fuji, George gained the love of millions shortly after the first WrestleMania and launched into his famous feud with Randy Savage. With the lovely Elizabeth overshadowing the Intercontinental Championship, Savage and Steele feuded throughout 1986 with Steele ultimately backing Ricky Steamboat's WrestleMania III title win.

Although the late '80s saw Steele's career wind down, The Animal still occasionally shows up to cause chaos and chew a turnbuckle pad. As one of the most unique characters to ever grace a wrestling ring, it's no surprise that George "The Animal" Steele has seen many different plastic incarnations.

The latest representation comes from Mattel in their WWE Legends line. With rumors running rampant that the line may soon be canceled amid veiled responses from Mattel, it would be a shame to see new merchandise of the forefathers of wrestling suddenly come to an end. Time will only tell if figures from wrestling's past continue to grace shelves next to today's entertainers.

Nevertheless, Mattel has done an admirable job with their WWE Legends thus far. It's always a plus when character specific accessories are included and this George Steele figure fits that description to a "T."

As nice a figure as it is, the Jakks Classic Superstars George Steele disappointed many collectors. While there were two versions of that figure released (one with painted hair and one with glued "real" hair) it was something which went unreleased that crushed fans. That would be the cancellation of Mine. Not yours. Mine.

When the Jakks Steele figure was originally shown it was to include the first figure of Mine, George Steele's late 1980's stuffed friend. By the time that the figure hit shelves, Mine was replaced by a recycled club and turnbuckle pad. This did not sit well with fans who expected more from the company known for the amazing Classic Superstars line.

Mattel has come to the rescue by finally releasing Mine. The green tongued little fella even has articulated arms ready to grasp onto his larger buddy as well as his trademark wristband proclaiming his name proudly. Another great inclusion is that of Steele's red-trimmed black shirt. Designed with velcro, the shirt is easily removable.

George's facial likeness is perfect with the green tongue hanging out as it should be. After all, who would want a Steele figure with the tongue in his mouth? George's infamous body hair is painted on and actually looks better than had it been flocked.

My personal "Public Enemy #1" in current wrestling action figures, the torso joint, is present but not bothersome. It actually helps improve on my only complaint of the figure. Like many Mattel WWE figures, George simply looks too thin to me. The torso joint actually adds a "roll" of sorts. Even in his early days battling Bruno, George was never that thin.

All in all, this is a very nice figure. The inclusion of Mine and the famous shirt actually make it an "ultimate" version of The Animal if that is something that you prefer as a collector. Although the "thin" factor is there, the long arms work well for George's famous stances.

My verdict? Make George and "Mine" yours!

The Steel City Still Reigns Supreme

2011-06-06T20:50:00.028-04:00

When discussing wrestling history, cities such as New York, St. Louis, Dallas, Charlotte, and Tokyo immediately spring to mind. While there's no doubt that these were the top wrestling hotbeds, there is an underrated, overlooked, and often ignored city that deserves recognition. This is the Steel City, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It truly doesn't matter which era of wrestling you're most familiar with. From Bruno vs Steele to Mankind vs The Undertaker, Pittsburgh wrestling fans are full of squared circle memories. The hard working, blue collar fans in the Steel City simply resonate with each and every aspect of pro wrestling. The hard hitting action. The rough characters. The traditional struggle of good vs evil.

Sadly for fans under the age of about 45, many of Pittsburgh's greatest wrestling moments are lost to history. The legendary Studio Wrestling program that starred Bruno Sammartino, Dominic DeNucci, The Crusher, The Battman, Waldo Von Erich, George Steele, announcer Bill Cardille and so many, many more is all but gone. WIIC-TV (now WPXI) , like many early television entities, taped over the weekly shows. Programs, magazines, photos, and even a few sound bytes are all that is left to keep the memories alive.

Another way that the Pittsburgh wrestling legacy has been kept alive is from a series of Studio Wrestling reunion appearances held in the area over the past two years. Sammartino, Steele, Johnny DeFazio, Ivan Koloff, and Baron Mikel Scicluna (in his final appearance) are just several of the names to attend these events. The appearance of children at these shows is proof that longtime Pittsburghers are sharing their longtime love for the sport of kings.

As touching as it is to see fans, young and old, meeting their local heroes, it is equally as compelling to witness the wrestling legends themselves in the spotlight once again. Even men such as Sammartino, Koloff, and Steele who attend such shows around the country are obviously affected by the outpouring of admiration in Pittsburgh. Hearing their stories, often elicited before the events by Bill Cardille, only reinforces the rich history of the region. Many fans, such as myself, get extra stories out of the stars when presenting classic items for them to autograph. It is these tales and memories, not the autographs or items, that are the true irreplaceable antiquities.

Sadly, it seems that one of the biggest icons of the city is on life support. As I discussed about a year ago, the Pittsburgh Civic Arena seems to be just months away from meeting the wrecking ball. A truly unique structure, the "Igloo" was home not only to so many of Sammartino's legendary battles, but also two of Pittsburgh native Kurt Angle's championship wins as well as the infamous Mankind-Undertaker Hell in the Cell match. It was also the place where, in 1992, a 9-year-old kid witnessed his first ever live pro wrestling card that just happened to involve Hulk Hogan, Roddy Piper, and Ric Flair.

Even government "progress" can't diminish the impact pro wrestling has had on the former "smoky" city. It's a shame that someone has not chronicled Pittsburgh's amazing wrestling story for posterity. Whether or not that ever happens, Pittsburghers themselves know that they live in one of the world's great wrestling cities. Perhaps the very last "best kept secret" the sport will ever know.

**********"From The Musty, Yellowed Pages..."**********

Wrestling World, April 1968, Page 50

Keeping with the legacy of Pittsburgh wrestling, I present a personal collectible story involving one of Studio Wrestling's late stars.

Chief White Owl was one of the many names that frequently competed in the Pittsburgh/Cleveland area. A fan-friendly wrestler, the Chief was known to be accessible for autographs. This is proven with the fact that over the past year I've acquired two of the Chief's autographs that were signed in the 1960's. Several magazines even show the Chief signing for groups of fans. One of those is this particular issue of Wrestling World.

This issue contains a multi-page article on the Chief and the various locales in which he was wrestling at the time. The photos for the article were taken at a Studio Wrestling taping. Upon reading the article, I noticed the Chief about to sign a Tri-State Wrestling publication. The Tri-State books are among my favorite wrestling collectibles of all-time. A total of five were produced by the Pittsburgh wrestling office in the 1960s and each contains a virtual time capsule of wrestling in Pittsburgh and the Bruno Sammartino dynasty. Although rarely found, issues will often include signatures obtained by the original owner. My own copy of the particular issue that Chief White Owl is about to sign in the photo...has Chief White Owl's signature on the cover.

In a bit of detective work in the style often left to devotees of the Kennedy assassination or UFO researchers, I enlarged and rotated the photo of White Owl about to sign the magazine and inset a photo of my own copy. The astute fan can see the small photos of Bruno performing various wrestling moves on the cover of the magazine. Is White Owl about to sign my exact copy? We'll never know. White Owl signed plenty of autographs and many fans used these Tri-State magazines for that exact purpose. Just like those who insist that someone is lurking in the grassy knoll...I believe in the photographs!

Jakks WWE Classic Superstars: A Modern Memorabilia Marvel

2011-06-01T20:24:00.018-04:00

I miss the Classic Superstars. I miss reading of new star signings to be upcoming additions in the line. I miss seeing the first prototype pictures and whether or not Jakks captured the particular likeness I was hoping for. I miss everything about Jakks WWE Classic Superstars.

Although I've peppered this blog with talk and photos of the line, I've never devoted a sole entry to the series. Like the LJN and Hasbro figure lines which preceded it, the Classic Superstars collection cannot be completely covered in just one entry. Also similar to its predecessors, the Classic Superstars line has enough good and bad nuances to fill a book.

In 2004, Jakks launched what would undeniably become the crowning glory of their nearly 15 years of holding the WWF/WWE license: WWE Classic Superstars. It was an action figure line that not only captured the attention of current fans, but also brought older fans back into the fold.

I will honestly admit that the original first series lineup didn't thrill me as much as it did many other collectors. Figures of "main event" talent such as Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, Triple H, The Undertaker, Andre the Giant, and The Ultimate Warrior weren't what I wanted to start with. Taking nothing away from this half-dozen of talent, I wanted figures of stars who had no previous plastic incarnations. I wanted mid and undercard talent.

As the line progressed, myself and many other longtime fans were regaling with new figures of Harley Race, Bobby Heenan, Dusty Rhodes, Billy Graham, and Demolition while enjoying first time figures of The Barbarian, The Fabulous Moolah, Ernie Ladd, Gorilla Monsoon, and Tully Blanchard. The stars of wrestling's glory days were finally being remembered as they should be.

While I expect no one to believe this, at one time I actually envisioned such figures. For some unknown reason, a Nikolai Volkoff figure in similar window packaging came to my mind in daydreams of a retro wrestling figure line about a decade before the introduction of the Classic Superstars. I'm sure I was not the only one.

As the list of legends grew in the line, so did the lines of collectors wanting to have their figures autographed. While it is impossible to have each and every figure in the line signed, many of these stars frequently appear on the fanfest and convention scene. This has made the Classic Superstars figures some of the top items to get autographed at these shows. During the height of the line, some convention guests were being booked solely on the release of their figure.

While the talent did get paid for their likeness, many seemed to enjoy just being produced into a figure. Whether it was their first figure or not, seeing the excitement of many of the stars over their figures can sometimes be as big of a joy as getting them signed.

As with any figure line, the line wasn't perfect. Be it due to outside restrictions (Randy Savage, Ricky Steamboat, Owen Hart, Elizabeth), cancellations (Blackjack Mulligan, Pat Patterson, Arnold Skaaland), or glaring omissions (Gorgeous George, Lou Thesz, Buddy Rogers) some stars that could have made the line even better are not represented. In addition, some stars who were signed on to have figures ended up not being produced. This is particular sad in the case of Sir Oliver Humperdink who had signed on and seemed very excited to finally have an action figure in his likeness.

That being said, the amount and range of talent that was included in the line is unmatched. From Bruno Sammartino, Hulk Hogan, and Ric Flair to the modern day "Classics" of John Cena, The Hardy Boyz, and Edge, there will never be another wrestling action figure collection of the same caliber.

Another highlight of the line is that, like the WWE Hall of Fame, names included reached out beyond the realms of WWWF/WWF/WWE talent. The Rock & Roll Express, The Koloff's, Bruiser Brody, The Brisco's, and even WCW, nWo, and ECW figure styles all showed up. Collectors in any era could find something to love in the line.

While Jakks continues to produce older stars in their TNA line under the "Legends of the Ring" banner and Mattel does similar work in their WWE Legends series, the true Classic Superstars line is over. Although there is much to collect and enjoy with the hundreds of figures produced from 2004 to 2009, any fan could wonder just what may have appeared had the line gone on a few more years. Although Jakks took the low road in the final months of the line, had WWE stayed with the company I have a feeling that we would have seen many more memorable figures.

More Classic Superstars will be covered in the future. What were your favorites? Tell your thoughts right here or on our Facebook Fanpage.

100 Entries = Countless Memories

2011-05-26T20:07:00.015-04:00

It's a technique used endlessly over the years. All the legends did it. Lucy. Dick Van Dyke. The Simpsons...often shamelessly. No, I'm not claiming to be a sitcom, but I am stealing one of their all-time most dreaded devices. If you're kind, you can call it a retrospective. But there's an uglier word for it. The infamous "F" word.

Flashback!

With this being the 100th entry of this blog, I've decided to go back and take a look at some of the truly memorable entries. In a blog that's largely based on nostalgia, where better to get a bit nostalgic? With so many newer readers in the past few months, some of you may be learning about a number of these entries for the first time.

For those of you who have been with me since the first entry, I haven't forgotten you. First off, thank you for sticking with me for the past two plus years. Second, there is a bit of new content at the end of the entry.

Although I just recently started discussing the blood, sweat, and tears of wrestling meet and greets, one of the first major entries that I did was a review of IWC's Night of Legends 2009 show. If I hadn't started attending IWC shows back in 2001, I wouldn't have ended up meeting so many of the wrestlers that I've had the pleasure of rubbing shoulders with.

One of those legends that I first met through IWC and have had the pleasure of meeting with many times since is the one and only Bruno Sammartino. "The Living Legend's" acceptance of the 2010 Dapper Dan Lifetime Achievement Award was my reason for this particular entry, but it remains only a small passage of the story of Bruno and Pittsburgh wrestling that needs to be told. Many more entries on both subjects are slated for the future.

Another topic which I plan on revisiting in the future is the series I call "Wrestling MarketWatch." Lifting half of the title from CBS (with my sincerest apologies to the "Eye"), these entries cover all forms of wrestling memorabilia and the latest going prices for the items. While I contend that price guides are dead in the era of eBay, these entries should fill the void quite nicely for the wrestling collector.

It's always nice when I can get input from the creators of the wrestling memorabilia. Two such entries are among my favorites and, judging from the feedback I received on them, favorites of yours as well. The first re-introduced the 1991 Wrestling Legends trading card set. Featuring Bruno, Buddy Rogers, Lou Thesz, and Lou Albano among many others, the set was produced by a Pittsburgh-based company called Imagine Inc. Although now defunct, the then-vice president of the company, Tim Ferrante, was kind enough to share memories and photos from the time of production.

The second entry highlighted the first in-house WWWF/WWF publication entitled Wrestling Action. Wrestling legend and editor of Wrestling Action, Les Thatcher, was kind enough to provide exclusive insight into these great magazines. Counting this five-issue series among my all-time favorite wrestling collectibles makes this entry a personal favorite of mine.

Our last "flashback" features another favorite collectible of mine. While WWF Hasbro toy collectors should all know about this item, judging from the great feedback on this entry it seems that many fans learned of it for the first time. The Hasbro WWF King of the Ring ring is one of those fun toys that, due to limited production and distribution, just doesn't see the light of day very often. It's sharing collectibles like this that make the entries a pleasure to produce.

**********************************************************

Now for something that I plan on including on a semi-regular basis. Many magazines often include a "parting shot." A final page with a photo, several photos, or even a short article to end the issue on a fun note. I often look upon this blog as a monthly magazine spread out upon several weeks, so without further ado I introduce you to...

"From The Musty, Yellowed Pages..."

In my vast collection of wrestling publications I've found tons of hidden gems over the years. Either widely known or lost to time, I'll be presenting many of these in this feature. Why not start with the best one of all?

Inside Wrestling, May 1978, Page 39

About ten years ago I acquired this magazine in a huge collection of old wrestling publications. Thumbing through them, I noticed a feature in many of the titles that wouldn't fly at all today. This particular feature was a monthly listing of "Wrestling Pen Pals." Each section contained a gallery of fans, mostly youngsters, with their photo, interests, and complete home address. A fun, harmless idea in 1978 that would probably be an outrage today.

Between the listings of young Bruno and Dusty fans as well as curious photo booth shots of adults (always looking like future "friends" of NBC's Chris Hansen), a particular child hailing from Ozone Park, NY came to my attention. I could not believe my eyes. Although I scanned the page when I made the initial discover and it later spread to a few places around the Internet, I once again present this particular 9-year-old fan for your enjoyment. Who knew that I would encounter this junior bowler so many years later? Luckily for me I didn't mention that I knew about Taz's first magazine appearance, otherwise I might've been just another victim...

Randy "Macho Man" Savage 1952-2011

2011-05-21T20:59:00.012-04:00

In the past decade it seems that many legendary wrestlers have had a "return" year. Hulk Hogan in 2002. "Superstar" Billy Graham in 2006. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat in 2009. Press, projects, and even brief in-ring returns have given these stars one last major time to shine. By all accounts, 2011 should have been the year of the "Macho Man."

New action figures. A video game appearance. Even a live-action appearance touting the video game where Savage himself declared 2011 his year. Family, friends, and fans were cheated this past Friday when Savage passed away of a heart attack resulting in a car crash. Judging by the press coverage of the tragedy, it looks as if the entire world feels cheated.

I've often argued just who the true "mainstream" names of the wrestling business are. Everyone and their grandmother knows the name Hulk Hogan. This has been fact since around 1985 and holds true to this day. While names such as Ric Flair, Bret Hart, Dusty Rhodes, and even Steve Austin come close in the wrestling fan's vernacular, they simply don't resonate the way the Hogan name does. Going back thirty years, Andre the Giant was definitely known in the mainstream. In the past ten years, The Rock would certainly be an arguable contender due to his entertainment career. Triple H or John Cena? Unfortunately for WWE, not even close.

The names I most often hear mentioned by folks who could barely be classified as wrestling fans are Junkyard Dog, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, Jake "The Snake" Roberts, The Ultimate Warrior, Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake...and "Macho Man" Randy Savage.

Whether it be for any of his various memorable wrestling runs, amazing performances, classic promos, or the often imitated (but never duplicated) Slim Jim commercials, Savage may be the only star name to come close to Hogan. Savage may have also been the first wrestler to crack the popularity armor of "The Hulkster." During their 1989 feud, Savage undeniably received more fan support than any of Hogan's other opponents since the birth of "Hulkamania." Indeed, "Macho Madness" was powerful despite Savage's heel tactics of the time.

Savage's downfall may actually turn out to be something that his many fans can cling to. While his virtual disappearance in the last several years has been largely disappointing to his fanbase, it has been said that the "Macho Man" lived in financial security in close proximity to family. Both his lack of need to do any notable projects for money and the word of his brother Lanny "The Genius" Poffo support this. Ultimately, while we fans may feel cheated out of more moments of "Madness" and the "Year of the Macho Man," we should actually be happy that the man who worked tirelessly for so many years in a thankless profession had the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of his labor.

Hopefully, somewhere in the great beyond, Savage is reunited with so many that were important in his life. His father who passed only a short time ago, the great Angelo Poffo. Friend and "Macho Queen" Sherri Martel. And of course, the lovely Elizabeth. Through various accounts of his life, one can get the picture that if you were closely associated with Randy Savage, it was because Mr. Savage wanted it that way.

Randy Savage will always be second to Hogan in mainstream name value. The fact of that is not going to change upon death nor should anyone pretend that it does. What we have found out is that while Mr. Hogan is still with us, hopefully for many years to come, I cannot honestly see him getting the outpouring of emotion that has come with the passing of the "Macho Man." Tributes, thoughts, and memories have come from all corners of the world this weekend for the man who not only dropped the elbow and snapped into a Slim Jim, but epitomized action, drama, and even romance in the world of professional wrestling. To say there will never be another Randy Savage is a statement that you can take to the bank. Even in this time of sorrow, that is something which we all can "dig."

"That Guy Actually Had A Figure?"

2011-05-17T02:40:00.019-04:00

Hogan. Austin. Cena. The Rock. The Undertaker. All-time greats. All-time favorite action figures to many collectors young and old. If you walked into any toy store during the primes of the aforementioned stars, you would be sure to find several different versions of each clogging the shelves.

Of course these figures are going to dominate the rest of your collection, but just like in the real-life world of wrestling, it takes other guys to make the stars. Which figures are going to look up at your bedroom lights while Dusty dances and Flair struts?

It's the lesser stars that have always intrigued me the most both in-ring and in the world of memorabilia. Some fans just don't realize that a lot of collectors want figures of nearly anyone who's ever appeared in a wrestling ring. When those fans see a particularly "quirky" figure either in a collection or on a store shelf, the familiar sentence always rings out...

"That guy actually had a figure?"

This entry is my own personal list of the five figures most likely to produce such a reaction. These five are based on my own opinion and reactions I've personally seen to some of them. Prepare to be SHOCKed...

The Shockmaster

He came. He saw. He fell. Tugboat in a glitter-filled Stormtrooper helmet. One of WCW's best ideas? No. But certainly a character that would make one wonder how it got onto television, much less got an action figure.

The truth is that the action figure is part of the Jakks WWE Classic Superstars line and was produced for two reasons. The first reason is because the character, due to the various mishaps surrounding it, WAS memorable. The second is because Jakks already had the rights to create the various faces of Fred Ottman into action figures. While Tugboat still remains unmade as an action figure (aside from being one of the goalie figures in the 1991 Remco WWF Table Hockey), we will always have Typhoon and the one and only Shockmaster to relive our memories of "Uncle Fred."

Dick Woehrle

Figures of the wrestlers themselves are great, but who can put on a show without managers, announcers, and referees? While Remco produced a few different referee figures for their AWA line, their Dick Woehrle figure may be the best referee figure of any line. While the other referees in the AWA line featured repainted heads from other Remco action figure lines, the Dick Woehrle head sculpt is amazingly lifelike. While the figure does include the famous "ripped" body type used on many of the AWA figures, it does not take away from the only figure of the man who seemingly wore the stripes in every wrestling territory. While other referees were released later on, perhaps the only figure to come close was the Jakks release of Earl Hebner nearly two decades later.

Ted Arcidi

This is the figure that not only posed the question above, but made kids ask "Who IS this guy?" The truth of the matter is that Ted Arcidi had a very brief run in the WWF. Aside from an appearance in the WrestleMania 2 Battle Royal, Arcidi had very few other memorable moments. This, coupled with the long time it took for figures to be produced in that era, meant that most children didn't have a clue who Ted Arcidi was by the time that the LJN figure was available in stores. The red singlet and somewhat goofy facial expression ensured that this figure would become the "jobber" in WWF household action nationwide. Arcidi has since become an actor appearing in such films as "The Town" and "The Fighter," but his biggest claim to immortality will probably always be as the least known LJN WWF figure in the line.

Zeus

Tiny Lister is a very nice guy and a good actor. If you've seen anything from "The Dark Knight" to "Friday" to episodes of "Matlock" and "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," you've seen Tiny Lister. He just wasn't a very good wrestler. His stint as Zeus was rather unremarkable despite the hype, and we can all be thankful that a rumored Hogan-Zeus main event at WrestleMania VI ultimately did not happen.

Similarly to The Shockmaster, Zeus was immortalized in the WWE Classic Superstars line for nostalgia purposes. Had the run of Zeus not taken place just as the WWF was switching from LJN to Hasbro for their toy license, we may very well have seen a vintage Zeus figure released as well.

Tiny Lister continues to have a steady career as a menacing character actor. Former WWF star Robert "Kurrgan" Maillet seems to be following in the same footsteps by becoming Hollywood's go-to brute. Will we ever see Zeus and Kurrgan do battle on the big screen? I know I'm not the only one who'd love to see it.

Outback Jack

Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport! Yes, it's Outback Jack. He had videos hyping his debut. He had magazine articles. He had trading cards. And yes, he had an LJN figure. He simply didn't have much ability in the ring. He did help us understand the lingo on the menu at "The Outback" and satisfied any fantasies anyone may have had about Crocodile Dundee crossing over into the world of wrestling. Honestly, we were better off sticking with Bill Dundee.

Did I leave anyone out? A figure that you cannot believe was produced? Maybe it's one that you've seen in a previous entry. Let us know here or on the Facebook Fanpage!

Christian...Christian...Alas, You May Never Be On Your Own...

2011-05-10T20:12:00.012-04:00

If you're a "Marty Jannetty," chances are that I'm a fan of yours. I like Marty himself, but I'm talking about anyone who's been the less successful partner in a tag team. The fact is that although most wrestlers who fall under this category have had very successful careers in their right, they've just not been as spectacular as their partners.

Christian could be considered a "Marty Jannetty." Taking nothing away from the recently ended career of Edge, I've always felt Christian seemed to be the better of the two. "The Look" is perhaps the only thing that Edge had over Christian, something that Vince McMahon himself is said to think as well.

Either way you look at it, both superstars define the late '90s through 2000's in professional wrestling. From tag team, to mid-card, to main eventing WrestleMania, Edge sampled every level of stardom that WWE has to offer. His look, style, and ability to morph his persona appealed to several different eras of WWF/WWE fan.

Christian visited those same plateaus on a bit lesser level. While Captain Charisma spent less time as a main event star, for a considerable amount of time he was an Internet darling and, at one point, was thought to be the free agent who would take TNA to the top. Although Christian gained two NWA Championship reigns during his TNA run, the somewhat grassroots following of the star fizzled when he was lost in the TNA shuffle.

Now that Christian has had a steady return run in WWE and Edge has unexpectedly retired, it's uncertain what the future holds for the Brood "brothers." What is certain is that Christian's fans are as vocal as ever. His recent one-night title reign was met with great displeasure which was loudly voiced to WWE management.

One place that Christian's fans should certainly be satisfied is in the merchandising department. Like most of the top stars of the "Attitude Era," both Edge and Christian received top treatment. Mattel, WWE's current toy licensee, has released several figures of both stars.

Christian's latest figure is available in a two-pack just like his figures of over a decade ago. This time the partner isn't Edge. Based upon the rookie-mentor scenario in the first season of WWE NXT comes Christian-Slater. No, not the actor. Christian is paired with current Corre member Heath Slater in this recent release.

The Heath Slater figure marks the first release of an NXT or Nexus figure. The figure has the familiar "N" armband signifying his allegiance to Nexus. Although figure releases have always been months after characters and story lines are fresh on television, this figure is particularly jarring. When the NXT Rookies initially became The Nexus last summer, the storyline was so interesting that even I deviated from writing about merchandise to express my excitement over the developments. Just a few months later the potentially company-changing storyline merged into just another stable. Nevertheless, it's nice to finally see figures of these new stars.

Mattel seems to be adapting their manufacturing practices with these figures both positively and negatively. The joints of the figures seem much less stiff than offerings of last year. Detail remains excellent and the facial likenesses are improving to Jakks level.

Although my ever-hated torso joints are not present here, I did notice something that may upset some collectors. Mattel had planned a commitment to making individual torso sculpts for each figure. I did not notice a change in this until now. Both figures in this pack use the same torso. While this is not a big deal to me (especially living through the days of the AWA Remco line where EVERY figure had one of two torsos), some collectors are sure to be bothered.

It's scary to think that Edge has already had a "Hall of Fame career" and is retired. It's similarly frightening to think back to Survivor Series 1996 when Rocky was but a rookie. Time truly waits for no man. One comforting notion about being a wrestling fan is that no matter your feelings on the product currently being presented, there is always more past material out there to keep you coming back. Covering such material is what, hopefully, keeps you coming back here.

More Names, More Memories, More Memorabilia!

2011-05-08T21:39:00.016-04:00

You guys asked for more "meet & greet" stories, therefore the name dropping continues! Between the last two entries and several stories I was asked to do for my friend Johngy on his great blog you've heard many tales of the wrestling convention scene. This past Saturday at the 12th Legends of the Ring show in New Jersey, even more memories were made and more memorabilia signed.

Just like at every other LOTR event there is a massive amount of wrestling talent, past and present, to meet. Two of the biggest for me personally were Joanie "Chyna" Laurer and Japanese legend Jushin "Thunder" Liger. In my many travels I had not yet had the opportunity to meet "The Ninth Wonder of the World" and North American appearances by any stars of the orient are few and far between.

Chyna's roller coaster life of the past few years may just be a thing of the past. Each and every fan who took the opportunity to meet the former Intercontinental Champion was more than pleasantly surprised. Ms. Laurer was humble, gracious, and attentive. Appearing nothing like the proverbial train wreck that has been covered by the media in recent years, Chyna will hopefully be another success story after falling from grace.

Presented by New Japan Pro Wrestling, Jushin "Thunder" Liger seemed as excited to be at LOTR as his fans were to meet him. It was truly an experience to see the mask recognizable to U.S. fans for his amazing WCW matches of the '90s. When the wrestlers exude the same enthusiasm as the fans, it makes the experience all the better.

Of course, these were not the only two names available to meet. Vader, Ken Shamrock, MVP, Carlito, Bill Eadie and Barry Darsow (Ax and Smash) in their Masked Superstar and Krusher Kruschev gimmicks, Maria Kanellis, Jim Ross, Johnny V, The Godwinns, Perry Saturn, Ron Simmons, Sunny, Tony Garea, DDP, Kurt Angle, Orlando Jordan, JJ Dillon, and Paul Bearer were just a few more.

A special mention goes out to former WCW announcer and current voice of TNA Mike Tenay. Mr. Tenay had to be one of the most personable wrestling personalities I have ever met. His own roots in wrestling as a fan showed greatly as he interacted with convention attendees and seemed mesmerized by all the great memorabilia presented not only for him to sign but for the other stars as well.

Be it the autographs, the photos, or simply getting to shake a hand and say "thank you," the experience of shows such as these is truly something that you cannot get anywhere else. Be it Legends of the Ring, Signamania, or NWA Fanfest, the true wrestling fan should attend at least one of these in their lifetime. It's no secret that time is running out. While there will always be stars for these shows to thrive, the old school talent is not getting any younger. The wrestling industry is not a forgiving one. Most fans realize that getting to meet the stars we grew up watching is a privilege. This is something that even fifteen years ago would be almost unfathomable due to the nature of the business. Not one fan could honestly tell me that back in 1992 they ever would've imagined sitting next to Big Van Vader, the monster who dominated Japan and decimated WCW's hero Sting. It simply did not fit into the "kayfabe" world of professional wrestling.

Everyone wins in events like these. Fans are able to meet the stars that defined the business and the wrestlers have brand new gigs. For some of the stars, though, I believe the true payoff is finally getting to know what an impact they had on so many lives. I can't imagine anything could soothe the pains of the wrestling business greater than that.

Grab The Bucket...I'm About To Drop Some Names--Part 2

2011-05-03T00:50:00.010-04:00

...and now the fun part!

With the exception of "Macho Man" Randy Savage, nearly every wrestling star has done a "modern" autograph signing appearance. Yes, even Dennis Stamp has been booked. While many factors go into talent appearing, it should be obvious to anyone that stars cannot continue to be booked on every show. While some fans have an endless supply of items for various stars to sign, others, especially those who are only interested in photo ops, are satisfied with one meeting. This means that talent has to be switched up from show to show.

Many shows base their talent lineup around trends in memorabilia collecting. If a talent is included in a "hot" item that is begging to be signed, their phones are much more likely to be ringing than not. During the height of Jakks WWE Classic Superstars figure line, many collectors found these handsomely packaged figures ideal to be autographed. The WWE Encyclopedia has proven to be another popular autograph "project" with some collectors amassing several hundred signatures in the book. Other collectors prefer the promotional photos put out by nearly every major wrestling company of the past twenty years. The difference between authentic promo photos and a standard 8x10 glossy is something that even some wrestlers themselves have caught onto over the years.

While some shows focus on the autograph aspect of fandom, others strive to make it a more personal experience. The multiple-day NWA Fanfest promoted by Greg Price is a complete celebration of pro wrestling's glory days while still extending a ray of hope towards modern wrestling that is continuing tradition. No matter which style of show is preferred, attending any of these shows is something that the wrestling fan would not soon forget.

Perhaps the most poignant fact of these shows is remembering times spent with stars who are no longer with us. It's no secret that each and every year we lose more and more of our childhood heroes from the squared circle. When one has had an interaction with any of these stars even for a fleeting moment, it makes that opportunity all the more important when one passes on. Sherri Martel, Sir Oliver Humperdink, Luna Vachon, Captain Lou Albano, Ernie Ladd, Gary Hart, and Jack Brisco are just a few of the legends that have appeared at shows such as these shortly before their deaths.

Of course, conventions are not the only places that you might be able to meet your heroes. A quick internet search can pop up various independent wrestling promotions around the country. These promotions often book wrestling legends on their shows in order to boost attendance. These stars are often available to meet either before the show or during intermission. TNA has even taken the independent style of easily accessible stars and integrated it into their house shows as I've previously written about.

Obtaining autographs and photos from your favorite stars is always a thrill, but occasionally there will be an extra special moment that defines your entire experience. Seeing two stars reunite after many years. A star taking special interest in an item you're having signed. Making a special connection over a memory long past. Whatever the case, these are moments that make the time traveling and money spent all worth it.

Even with all of the words and photos, the only way to truly experience the things I've illustrated on this blog over the past few years is to join the party. It's never too late and never a disappointment. Be it that you want to get that old magazine signed or just finally go beyond simply being a face in the crowd, welcome to the world of fan interaction. Be prepared to make more memories than televised wrestling has given you in years.

Grab The Bucket...I'm About To Drop Some Names--Part 1

2011-04-30T00:09:00.017-04:00

Whether it be in person, through various forms of social networking, or even on here, one of the most oft-questions I am asked is, "How do you meet all of these wrestlers?" It isn't as hard as you would think, at least not to get started. Building the list of names, stories, and experiences is the true task and something that many fans take as a personal challenge.

Although I've discussed conventions, fanfests, and indy shows on here before, these particular entries can be looked at as an entertaining "FAQ" file, if you will. Following a lot of great recent feedback asking for stories of meeting wrestlers or getting particular items signed, this will also most likely serve as a prelude to more entries along those lines.

There's actually no better time to do entries such as these. The nice weather on this side of the United States brings about better opportunities to travel thus more conventions are scheduled. It should be noted upfront that if you're unable to travel, you should find another hobby. I see countless comments around cyberspace of folks complaining that shows such as these don't come to their area. Promoters find a profitable area and stick to it. Promoters also find areas that are generally accessible with special lodging (and occasionally travel) rates for convention-goers. If these breaks still keep traveling a dream rather than a reality--find a buddy or six. Nothing makes a trip better than having your friends along. In fact, sometimes the good times with friends become more memorable than the shows themselves.

One week from today is the twelveth edition of New Jersey's Legends of the Ring convention. Along with NWA Fanfest (usually held in Charlotte, NC) and Signamania (held outside of Philadelphia, PA), Legends of the Ring (or LOTR for short) has proven to be one of the "main event" players in the world of wrestling conventions and has played host to a who's who of grapple greats. From Flair and Sting to Mean Gene and The Brain, LOTR provides a stellar lineup catering to the taste of any wrestling fan. Next week's show includes appearances by Dusty Rhodes, Ken Shamrock, Jim Ross, Big Van Vader, DDP, Chyna, Kurt Angle, and many more. The promoters have also cultivated relationships with both TNA and New Japan Pro Wrestling, the latter of which has secured rare U.S. appearances for Jushin "Thunder" Liger and several other NJPW stars at next week's event.

While I discussed the logistics of these shows in my NWA Fanfest preview from last year, there's no harm in doing so again. Each event offers a package called a "Superticket" or "VIP Pass." Purchasing one of these packages will grant you admission to the show and one autograph and photo with each of the stars on the main lineup. Additionally, vendors who are setting up booths at the show will bring in stars separate from the main lineup. These guests are called, fittingly, "vendor guests." Fans are able to pick and choose from who they would like to meet and pay a fee for autographs and photos.

After being asked how I've met so many wrestling personalities, I'm occasionally asked a follow-up question. That question being, "Why would you pay for an autograph?" The following paragraph contains the answer that you will hear from anyone who understands anything about how these types of shows work.

Stars, be it wrestlers, actors, or other athletes, do not come to these shows out of the goodness of their hearts. It is a job. They are being paid by the promoters of the show to be there. They are leaving their friends/family/whoever to do a job. The promoters are not putting the shows on for free, either. Many (but not all) of these stars would be very willing to give you a rushed autograph and photo somewhere out in the world. Me? Personally, I'd rather travel to one place where I can meet any number of stars at one time. I can get a nice, posed photo with the star (possibly even in gimmick) suitable for print/display/whatever and have my item signed on a table with a nice full signature. If you still would like all of this without paying, you can be my guest and try to track them all down. And if you're of the mindset that these stars "owe" you anything...well...I'm not even going to bother going there.

Now that we've gone through the "rough" stuff, Part 2 will be full of the stuff you really wanna know. What stars are booked on what shows? Is Dennis Stamp booked? (He was!) How much fun will you really have? And yes, I will even let you know that with a little research, you may find that you can rub shoulders with the greats right in your backyard...or at least region.

To Be Continued!

Immortal Merchandising

2011-04-22T00:22:00.015-04:00

Pro wrestlers are known for spinning yarns on just about any subject. Whether true or false, there's usually always an element of entertainment in these tales. I cannot count how many times, while having an item signed, I've heard of how much (or how little) the individual was paid for the particular item. One superstar that, without a doubt, made more money on merchandise than most of us will see in a lifetime is the one and only Hulk Hogan.

Countless words have been written about Hulk Hogan's contributions to the wrestling world. Like it or not, nearly thirty years after the birth of Hulkamania, Hogan is still the most recognized wrestler in the world. As much as it pains some detractors to admit that, it is undeniably the truth. As a child, I can remember thinking that even little old ladies knew who the Hulkster was. In my early high school years just before the "Attitude Era" hit, I can remember peers who no longer followed wrestling thinking that Hulk was still the WWF Champion. It's simply a fact that Hulk Hogan will always be synonymous with the mainstream idea of professional wrestling.

Is it any wonder that this is the case? Having a cartoon show, action figures, lunch boxes, shoelaces, bubble bath, vitamins, canned pasta, and charisma out the wazoo will do that for a person. While his out-of-the-ring exploits of the last few years have left some fans with a bad taste in their mouth, Hogan's successes benefited many. Not only have his legions of fans been provided with countless memorable wrestling moments, but the wrestlers he worked with also gained from association.

Stories of wrestlers wanting to work on the higher grossing Hogan-topped events have circulated for years. Many stars have told me that they were not only compensated for their likenesses appearing in the Rock n Wrestling cartoon show, but for their inclusion as an action figure in the LJN WWF line. It seems that, according to some stars, Hulkamania truly is where the power was.

There are still some who claim that Stone Cold Steve Austin holds the record for merchandise sales in wrestling. While there is no doubt that Austin and his merchandise had an amazing run, if every single officially licensed item between the two men could be counted, the winner would absolutely have to be Hogan. Not only were Hulk's highest grossing years over double in length of Austin's, but one only has to compare footage from their respective eras to see that the "yellow finger" outsold the "middle finger" by leaps and bounds. Let's not forget, THQ knew just who to demand be featured on the cover of their latest WWE video game despite being a current TNA talent. The red and yellow reigns supreme.

Regardless of who is truly the merchandise champion, both Hogan and Austin had amazing careers that defined the era in which they competed. It's Hogan, however, that transcended the mainstream and most likely propelled himself to the spot of the most well-known professional wrestler of all-time.

Maybe there should be some of award for this achievement...

The Hulky?

TNA Live--An Experience In WRESTLING To Be Learned From

2011-04-11T00:47:00.023-04:00

The wrestling industry is constantly changing and evolving. From The Rock and Steve Austin looking to pass the torch to the industry's "silent" battle against the fad of mixed martial arts, never before has there been more of a transition period than right now. One of the major companies has finally abandoned the "evil" title of "wrestling" altogether while the other is nearing a decade of trying to find itself.

When wrestling finally came to pay-per-view in 1985, the ultimate goals of most wrestling promoters immediately began to change. Pay-per-view buys became more important than selling tickets to live events. While these events, the sole financial backbone of the industry until '85, have survived the past twenty-six years, their importance has changed dramatically.

The matches which previously were only seen on a live basis were now available for a fee on pay-per-view or later on free television. Being under the same roof as your favorite stars and seeing cookie-cutter matches became the only real motivation to travel to your local arena and catch a live show.

TNA is a company which, for nearly ten years, has seemed somewhat lost at times. Being created as an alternative to the WWE product, many times TNA has seemingly just copied the worst of WWE. Glimpses of great things have come from the promotion, but often without capitalization or follow-up. For the past several years and deriving from several sources, TNA has done one thing right--the live event.

For many years independent wrestling promotions have been known for providing smaller shows where fans can see action from younger stars in addition to older veterans. Combine that with a usual option of getting to meet many of these stars at the show and fans of the independents usually leave the events with smiles on their faces.

TNA took those ideas from the independents and developed a unique experience that ultimately boils down to fans getting not only a great experience, but enough of a draw to get them out of the house and down to the arena. While TNA runs mostly smaller venues, fans always benefit from a more intimate setting where there really isn't a bad seat in the house.

A veteran of many live events over the past twenty years (including several TNA events), I can honestly say that TNA the event this past weekend in Rostraver, PA was one of the best I've ever been to. The company did its best to get the fans the best experience that they could have. From personal appearances in the area which included stars giving out autographs, DVDs, and show tickets to the different ticket options to meet stars at the show, I doubt a single fan left the event unhappy. Compared to the WWE's first two lackluster efforts at Pittsburgh's new Consol Energy Center, this is a far contrast.

Every TNA live event includes an "autograph party" where various stars of the promotion circle ringside with Sharpies to sign whatever the fans provide. Other signings and photo opportunities arise throughout the night as well. While buying a TNA program is encouraged by huckster Don West, I highly recommend viewing the show lineup in advance and bringing your own items in addition. The program is a very nice item to get signed, however, and nominally priced at $20.

For a few years now, perennial TNA announcer Jeremy Borash has come up with different ways for fans to obtain "backstage passes" in order to meet even more stars at the events. At the Rostraver show, sixteen commemorative Jeff Jarrett TNA guitars were available for purchase. While not in everyone's price range, the guitar included two backstage sessions as well as photo opportunities with Mickie James, Mick Foley, and Kurt Angle which were available to other attendees for a fee. Seeing the guitar in person makes you realize that this is the quintessential TNA collectible and ultimately a bargain. Considering what the included autographs and photo ops would cost on the wrestling convention scene individually it was almost a mistake to pass it up. Hopefully TNA creates other unique pieces of memorabilia such as this for future events.

The show itself was also a step above other offerings recently in the area. The card was solid, well booked, and well performed. If TNA provided the style of match and card on television that is presented on the house show level, we could see the company give the "entertainment" crew from Connecticut a run for their money. Each and every house show reaction I've witnessed live for Beer Money rivals and eclipses that of many of the Monday night superstars.

The bottom line is that both companies realize that change needs to be made in order for the ring wars to be "hot" once again. WWE believes that changing to full-blown entertainment is the way to go. TNA gets that wrestling is still on the marquee, but only seems to produce that on the house show level. There's room for athletics and entertainment in the world of wrestling, we simply need to get back to the perfect balance.

Whether you're looking to meet the stars, want to see entertaining wrestling, or pick up a couple of autographs, a TNA live event could be just what you're looking for. Don't let the stigma that the company has picked up deter you. They've changed live events the way that they needed to be changed. If the entire company followed suit, we could be in for wrestling the way we once loved it.

From Hulk & Andre to Bret & Shawn--Hasbro WWF Madness

2011-04-06T23:16:00.013-04:00

After a certain amount of time nearly everything experiences some sort of nostalgic resurgence. Foods, television shows, cars, fashion, and even decades all become beloved and "in" again after a certain amount of time.

Around ten years ago, the wrestling collecting community was especially nostalgic for the LJN WWF figure line. For those of you who simply remember those "big rubber wrestling dolls" that epitomized the Rock 'n Wrestling era, this is the LJN figure line. The 60-plus character collection full of figures heavy enough to bash your neighbor on the head with were suddenly hot again and prices were skyrocketing. Seeing as that the Jakks Classic Superstars line had yet to be developed, many wrestlers only figures were in the LJN line. Some stars such as Adrian Adonis, Slick, and Special Delivery Jones are still only available in the collection.

Today, the LJN line is still widely collected and loved by fans, but there is one figure line I get more questions about above all others. This line, produced from 1990 through 1994, is the Hasbro WWF figure collection.

When the WWF's deal with LJN expired in 1989, the company seemed to quickly sign a new deal with Hasbro. While the line did not hit stores until 1990, the Hasbro WWF ring mold is dated 1989, showing that the toy company jumped right into production.

The initial lineup of WWF superstars included Hulk Hogan, Andre the Giant, The Ultimate Warrior, Randy Savage, Ted DiBiase, Jake Roberts, Rick Rude, Brutus Beefcake, The Big Bossman, Akeem, and Demolition Ax & Smash. Introduced on a series of commercials starring Jesse "The Body" Ventura and several of the aforementioned stars, children watching morning cartoon shows were captivated by the "Real Wrestling Action" included in these new toy grapplers.

Each figure included a different mechanism which enabled the figures to perform different signature maneuvers. While some of the moves matched those of the real wrestlers, others did not. Either way, the inclusion of these features proved to be a big hit with kids used to their wrestling figures not moving at all.

Flying off of the shelves, the line ultimately lasted until 1994 producing well over 100 figures if you include paint and design variants. Many of these variants help carry collector interest today. Between differences in card design and even country of origin, many fans collect these "subsets" to further extend their WWF Hasbro collection.

Even during the time that these figures were available at retail, a keen collector could tell which would be more desirable in the future. Peg hooks full of Brutus Beefcake version 1 and Roddy Piper were commonplace while finding a Dusty Rhodes was pure chance. The original blue ring, carried by retailers for years, is still easy to find while the yellow King of the Ring version saw very few shipments.

Beginning in late 1993, the individual figure waves began appearing on color coded cards. While the first few waves saw a red, white, and blue motif, these color coded sets featured yellow, red, purple, blue, and finally green card backs. The green carded series saw limited distribution and was most widely available at Hills Department Stores in early 1995. Rumors of an additional orange carded series have circulated since then and are completely unfounded.

For many collectors it's the sheer range of the line that makes these figures so attractive. From products of the territories such as Kamala, Greg Valentine, Kerry Von Erich, and Hacksaw Jim Duggan to megastars like Andre the Giant, Ric Flair, Randy Savage, and Ricky Steamboat and even "New Generation" WWF stars like 1-2-3 Kid, Yokozuna, and The Smoking Gunns--they're all here.

Glaring omissions such as managers, referees, and female characters have always been a black mark on the line. One has to wonder just what memorable figures Hasbro could've produced of Dino Bravo, Haku, The Barbarian, Jeff Jarrett, and Diesel among others.

However, if Hasbro memories are what you're looking for, look no further than the 2011 WWE Hall of Fame Ceremony. During their acceptance speech, Road Warrior Animal and Paul Ellering paid tribute to their fallen brother, Road Warrior Hawk, by placing his Hasbro representation on the induction podium. It does not get more sentimental than that.

The value of each figure varies greatly and, as always, is due to the demand at the time. While some such as Dusty Rhodes, any of the final green carded series, and Andre the Giant have remained high over the years, other figures such as the various releases of Randy Savage, the second version of Brutus Beefcake, and Demolition have seen hot and cold moments. As always, your best bet is to check eBay for all the latest price trends.

With the wide range of figures alone, you can be sure that this is not the last time the WWF Hasbro line will be visited on this blog. We've only scratched the surface with stories, photos, and memories. Many of the figures could be entries in themselves and let's not forgot a "little" toy with a "big" following that was also produced by Hasbro for the WWF. You may have had to rumble a bit back in 1992 in order to get your hands on one...

As always, stay tuned!

WrestleMania XXVII = One More For The Books?

2011-03-31T22:17:00.007-04:00

It's in the air. The event is upon us. Perhaps the biggest name to transition from wrestling to "sports entertainment" isn't an individual star, but WrestleMania itself.

Today, twenty-six years to the day of the very first WrestleMania, even the most jaded fan has to admit a certain magic surrounding the name and history. No wrestling event has ever garnered more publicity than WrestleMania. Is it the matches? The celebrities? The grandeur? Of course they all factor in. The truth is that there is still a ring, there is still the drama and athleticism of spectacular matches, and it is still a grand showcase of the pastime we all love.

Without a doubt no wrestling event has been covered by more journalists than WrestleMania. Between in-house publications from WWF/WWE to articles in newspapers and magazines the world over, the event stands above the rest. Photos from the show can commonly be found jamming the news wire mere moments after they occurred. For three or four hours each year the elements of professional wrestling, be it described as such or otherwise, are the focal point of the entire world.

WrestleMania IV brought the subtitle of "What The World Is Watching" into widespread use for the company. WrestleMania itself, each and every year, proves that subtitle valid.

Whether you're tuning in for the matches, the celebrities, the glitz, or the glamor, remember that you are witnessing the biggest mainstream stage professional wrestling will ever be seen on. Considering that it's a bigger stage than most other sports and/or entertainment entities will achieve, it should make anyone proud to be a fan of wrestling and/or sports entertainment.

Enjoy WrestleMania XXVII!

He Looks To The Future, But He Won't Forget The Past...

2011-03-24T23:18:00.007-04:00

March 22, 2009. It's hard to believe that I've authored this blog for two years now. When looking back on that time only two words immediately spring to mind: Thank You.

The blog actually sprouted from a concept born way back in 1997. In the early days of the "modern" era of the Internet I had my own online newsletter devoted to wrestling collectibles. Re-reading the only issue still known to exist, it's very obvious that this is the work of a high school kid and various "guest" authors. That said, the newsletter had a huge and very loyal following. Seeing as that up until I began this blog I still occasionally heard from former readers of the newsletter, it must have left some impression on collectors.

When dreaming up the blog, I decided to continue to follow the same two principles that I imposed in the newsletter: to inform and entertain. While I felt that each entry should contain information that could prove interesting to the reader, every writer knows that in order to keep the reader enthralled you simply have to entertain. If you're reading this blog in the first place, you're obviously already entertained by the concepts presented in the world of professional wrestling. My work was cut out for me.

I also decided that instead of concentrating on breaking news, the blog would instead analyze and expound on said news. Reviews of new products, memories of past collectibles, and of course the MarketWatch (my apologies to CBS) entries detailing the latest in auction prices are all concepts that became the foundation of the blog.

Most of all, the blog is here because it's fun. My sincerest hope is that reading the blog is as fun as it is to maintain. Between the blog, the Facebook Fanpage with nearly four hundred readers, and constant communication, I feel that we have created a community based on love for the sport of kings and the great memorabilia celebrating it.

With WrestleMania XXVII right around the corner, interest in wrestling collectibles will inevitably pique for a week or so. If you're just finding us--welcome! Whether you are a new or longtime reader, please let me know what you would like to see here! More reviews? More profiles on the stars and their individual collectibles? Vintage items or new swag? More on encounters with the wrestlers? It's all up to you.

From getting to live a lifelong dream of joining the crew of writers with Pro Wrestling Illustrated to being able to share memories of such wonderful people like Sir Oliver Humperdink, you have enabled me to do this. If you folks weren't enjoying it, I would have no reason to continue.

Once again, thank you. I believe the best is yet to come.