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http://www.cheap-heat.com WWE, TNA, ROH, NJPW - Blogs, Reviews, Top Lists, Indy News & Results Sun, 20 Sep 2015 01:35:33 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=4.3.1

http://www.cheap-heat.com/brocase-of-the-immortals-wrestlemania-iii/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/brocase-of-the-immortals-wrestlemania-iii/#comments Fri, 11 Sep 2015 16:07:50 +0000 B+ Players CH Podcast Andre the Giant Bob Ueker Hulk Hogan Roddy Piper Vince McMahon Wrestlemania wrestling WWE http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=14131 Since its inception in 1985, WrestleMania has gone by many nicknames including the "Granddaddy of Them All," the "Super Bowl of Wrestling," and of course "Showcase of the Immortals." We are just 32-weeks away from the biggest WrestleMania in WWE History; WrestleMania XXXII will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington Texas on April 3rd […]

Since its inception in 1985, WrestleMania has gone by many nicknames including the "Granddaddy of Them All," the "Super Bowl of Wrestling," and of course "Showcase of the Immortals." We are just 32-weeks away from the biggest WrestleMania in WWE History; WrestleMania XXXII will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington Texas on April 3 ^rd 2016. While there's always been some concern as to the legitimacy of WWE's attendance figures in the past, this event is almost guaranteed to break all pre-existing records. Join Mark Adam Haggerty of Daily Wrestling News and Gary Mastriano of Cheap-Heat for this one-of-a-kind podcast series featuring guests from all walks of life including comedians, musicians, and most importantly— professional wrestlers! We'll be back every Friday with an in depth look at each and every WrestleMania from the action in the ring, to the stories behind the scenes.

Wrestlemania III is perhaps the most iconic wrestling event in the history of the sport. Taking place on March 29, 1987 before a reported 93,173 fans, this was the first ‘Mania to be available on pay-per-view. The main event features Hulk Hogan defending the world title against the then-undefeated Andre the Giant. In addition, this is the event wherein Ricky the Dragon Steamboat defeated Macho Man Randy Savage, Brutus Beefcake was christened “the Barber,” and Bob Ueker remained on the hunt for the Fabulous Moolah. Enjoy clips and behind the scenes stories from one of the biggest wrestling events of all time!

B+ Player Radio is a network of professional wrestling podcasts produced by writers, comedians, musicians, and most importantly— professional wrestlers! Listen to hours of exclusive content available every single week on iTunes – TuneIn Radio – SoundCloud – Stitcher – YourListen – or RIGHT HERE at Cheap-Heat.com !

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http://www.cheap-heat.com/brocase-of-the-immortals-wrestlemania-2/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/brocase-of-the-immortals-wrestlemania-2/#comments Mon, 07 Sep 2015 17:29:55 +0000 B+ Players CH Podcast Hulk Hogan Roddy Piper Vince McMahon World Wrestling Federation Wrestlemania wrestling WWE WWE Network WWE Universe WWF http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=14020 Listen to this week's episode on all of your favorite Podcast Apps & Websites: iTunes – TuneIn Radio – SoundCloud We don't recommend the media player on mobile devices as it tends to drop and/or restart the show. Since its inception in 1985, WrestleMania has gone by many nicknames including the "Granddaddy of […]

We don't recommend the media player on mobile devices as it tends to drop and/or restart the show.

This week we're coming to you from one single location as we chit-chat about a show broadcast from THREE SEPARATE CITIES! WrestleMania 2 took place in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles—and was the only �Mania to air on a Monday. Gary isn't fond of this event, and goes on record calling it the "worst WWE event in history." Mark thoroughly enjoyed it however, and is hopped up on caffeine, ready to tell you why! This is also the most star-studded wrestling event in history with dozens upon dozens of comedians, actors, football players, and fast food spokespeople! Enjoy this week's episode of "BroCase of the Immortals" —a little late, but chock full of the nonsensical humor you've come to expect from B+ Player Radio.

http://www.cheap-heat.com/bro-case-of-the-immortals-wrestlemania-i/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/bro-case-of-the-immortals-wrestlemania-i/#comments Fri, 28 Aug 2015 13:45:48 +0000 B+ Players CH Podcast bruno sammartino ECW Gorilla Monsoon Hulk Hogan Jesse Ventura Mr. T NJPW Pro Wrestling Roddy Piper ROH Vince McMahon WCW wrestling WWE WWF http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=13821 Media Player Problems? CLICK HERE for our NEW home at SoundCloud.com! Note: B+ Player Radio will be available through iTunes in the coming week. Since its inception in 1985, WrestleMania has gone by many nicknames including the "Granddaddy of Them All," the "Super Bowl of Wrestling," and of course "Showcase of the Immortals." We are […]

Media Player Problems? CLICK HERE for our NEW home at SoundCloud.com!
Note: B+ Player Radio will be available through iTunes in the coming week.

This week we're diving into the first leg of our discussion, and we're talking about the event that started it all— WrestleMania. Learn how closed-circuit television and celebrity appearances helped transformed professional wrestling into Sports Entertainment . This is an awesome show featuring seemingly unknown talents such as David Sammartino and S.D. Jones; established main eventers like Hulk Hogan and Roddy Piper; as well as Superstars just starting out such as Matt Bourne, Brutus Beefcake, and Mike Rotunda. Share with your friends and shout us out in social media to have your voice heard on future episodes! Get set for our WrestleMania 2 show on September 4 ^th and then WrestleMania 3 the following Friday on the 11 ^th !

Please LIKE and FOLLOW us on Facebook for new episodes of the B+ Players; constant coverage courtesy of DailyWrestlingNews.com, and lots of laughs thanks to Gutbusterwrestling.com!

http://www.cheap-heat.com/the-outsiders-edge-the-rod-cast/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/the-outsiders-edge-the-rod-cast/#comments Tue, 04 Aug 2015 21:53:50 +0000 B+ Players CH Podcast AAA Dana White Hulk Hogan NJPW Pro Wrestling Rhonda Rousey Roddy Piper ROH TNA UFC wrestling WWE http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=13320 If the Media Player Doesn’t Work – CLICK HERE – for our official page at YourListen! This week the "Outsiders' Edge" is the official “ROD-Cast,” as Mark and Gary pay special tribute to the life of “Rowdy” Roddy Piper. Here's a rundown of what to expect this week: Mark and Gary goof around and discuss […]

If the Media Player Doesn’t Work – CLICK HERE – for our official page at YourListen!

This week the "Outsiders' Edge" is the official “ROD-Cast,” as Mark and Gary pay special tribute to the life of “Rowdy” Roddy Piper. Here's a rundown of what to expect this week:

PleaseВ LIKE and FOLLOW В us on Facebook for new episodes of the B+ Players; constant coverage courtesy ofВ Daily Wrestling News ; and lots of laughs thanks toВ Gutbusters !

http://www.cheap-heat.com/7-must-see-roddy-piper-matches/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/7-must-see-roddy-piper-matches/#comments Sat, 01 Aug 2015 14:36:09 +0000 Mark Adam Haggerty Top Lists Roddy Piper Rowdy Roddy Piper Wrestlemania wrestling WWE WWE Hall of Fame WWF http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=13250 The passing of Roddy Piper has been especially hard on those of us who grew up in the Northeast during the late 1980s and �90s. Roddy was truly larger than life, and it's hard to express just what he meant to me as a wrestling fan. I'm planning to write a retrospective piece on the […]

The passing of Roddy Piper has been especially hard on those of us who grew up in the Northeast during the late 1980s and �90s. Roddy was truly larger than life, and it's hard to express just what he meant to me as a wrestling fan. I'm planning to write a retrospective piece on the "Hot Rod" within the next few days, and in preparation I began watching all the Roddy tapes I could find. Of course "tapes" means "internet" in 2015, so I figured I might as well share my findings with the good people at Cheap-Heat.com. Roddy Piper was more than just a man in a kilt who cracked coconuts and told jokes—he was an outstanding professional wrestler. I've combed through YouTube and Dailymotion to find seven stellar Roddy Piper matches I think everybody has to see. The majority of these matches are shown in their entirety, but there are a couple you'll need to click "Part 2" to continue. I think it's a small inconvenience considering the man we're honoring today. We can all take solace that Roddy will be in good company when he walks through the ropes of that big ring in the sky.

2. WrestleMania VIII – Intercontinental Championship (1992)
Roddy Piper (c) vs. Bret Hart
Nobody retired more than Roddy Piper. In 1992, "Hot Rod" won the coveted Intercontinental Championship from the Mountie. He put the strap on the line against Bret "The Hitman" Hart at Wrestlemania VIII in what some believe to be the match of the night.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Roddy's children and grandchildren, as "Rowdy" Roddy Piper will remain in our hearts until the end of time. Just when we thought we had the answers, he changed the questions. Until next time, please LIKE "The B+ Players Podcast" on Facebook, and FOLLOW me on Twitter for all the latest and greatest updates courtesy of Cheap-Heat and Daily Wrestling News!

http://www.cheap-heat.com/forever-burning-bright-remembering-hot-rod/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/forever-burning-bright-remembering-hot-rod/#comments Sat, 01 Aug 2015 07:59:25 +0000 Gregory Iron Blogs Wrestler Blogs Roddy Piper http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=13228 “Well, what we’re dealing with is one of the original Village People here, with his manager Jimmy Hart, who keeps kissing the belt leaving all that lipstick on it. I heard the Mountie out here saying,В ‘First thing I’m gonna do,’ pounds his chest, I don’t know him, he’s something. ‘First thing I’m gonna do, I’m […]

I didn’t know how to start this. I’m shocked. It’s 2:41 a.m. I’m sitting in a hotel room in Charlotte, North Carolina, where I should be sleeping in preparation for a 10 a.m. autograph signing with Zach Gowen at the NWA Legends Fan Fest.В At around 6 p.m. yesterday, as I was driving through West Virginia, I read the news that “Rowdy” Roddy Piper had past away. So instead of resting, I sit here thinking about one of my all time favorite wrestlers.

“Hot Rod” was always quick to remind you– without Roddy Piper, there would be no Hulk Hogan. That statement has never felt truer than it does right now. Hulk Hogan was the ultimate hero in the 1980’s World Wrestling Federation, and Piper was the relentless villian, hellbent on destroying Hulkamania.

RoddyВ had incredible drawing power in the 80’s because he was a master of a lost art: he had the ability to draw “heat.” I’m not talking about the “You’re A Bad Guy So I’m Gonna Boo You” heat. I’m talking the “I’m Gonna Wait For You In The Parking Lot And Stab You” type heat, the type of heat that no one attempts to do now because of everyone wants to be the “cool” bad guy. As a wrestler with a disability, it seemingly defies logic for a guy like me to be a villian, and yet I go out of my way to be the best villian. I’ve ripped so many pages out of Piper’s play book over the years, though I couldn’t even come close to the “Hot Rod.”В Nobody can.

He wasn’t happy with you just hating him– Roddy Piper thrived on making you want to kill him. Fans were willing to buy tickets to the arena and to close circuit TV venues to see Piper get his ass kicked, and it was because of this that it was a no brainer to have Piper headline opposite of Hogan at WrestleMania, before WrestleMania had a number attached to the end of it. Without Roddy Piper, there may have never been a sequel to that first ‘Mania. Hell, one could argue that had it not been for Piper, the WWF and pro wrestling as we know it may not even exist today.

I grew up exposed to the babyface Piper of the early 90’s. His hair was a little longer then, and his allegiances were a tad different, but the presentation was the same. He always walked to the ring with a purpose, fire in eyes, ready to scrap. He was a hellraising, kilt wearing, bagpipes playing bad ass.

It’s hard for the average person to wrap their head around that last sentence. How can someone wear a kilt, play bagpipes and be a bad ass, you ask? Well, just when you think you have all the answers…

Even though Piper played a good guy during the 1990’s, he wasn’t a hero in the traditional sense. He was a rebel. He was the original anti-hero, marching to the best of his own drum. In his own words, he was “Rowdy” before it was cool. If we never had Roddy Piper, we wouldn’t get “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, CM Punk, or Dean Ambrose.

He was the first of his kind, and yet, after all of these years, he managed to remain one of a kind. He had unmatched wit and charisma. He was believable. If you didn’t watch wrestling but saw Roddy Piper, you could look at him, stop and say, “I know everything else in wrestling is phony, but this guy is the real deal.” He was never as big or as strong as Hulk Hogan or The Ultimate Warrior, but he made you believe that you ran into him in a dark alley, it’d be in your best interest to get on his goodside.

By all accounts, despite being a certified B.M.F… Roddy Piper was a sweetheart. If he met you, he took time to hear your story, what you were about, and to tell you just how special you are. I never got to meet Roddy. Last month, the idea was being tossed around to have Piper come into AIW in Cleveland for Absolution X, their version of WrestleMania. The idea was to have Roddy host “Piper’s Pit,” with myself and The Iron Curtain as his guests.

For me, to share a ring with “Hot Rod” would have been the thrill of a lifetime. Unfortunately, a deal was never reached, and I ended working with Vader instead (still a surreal moment). Had they got Piper, for absolutely no reason other than the fact that he had done it at WrestleMania VI, I had planned to paint myself half black, all with the intention to pop “Rowdy” Roddy Piper. I laugh just sitting hear thinking about that…

I think my all time favorite Piper match is his bout from WrestleMania VIII with Bret Hart. It was arguably Piper’s best wrestling matches, a helluva story, and one of the few times Roddy actually lost a match clean– a testament to the respect Roddy had for “The Hitman.”

As I finish writing this, it still hasn’t really hit me. First Dusty… now Roddy. I didn’t know these men personally, but dammit, they profoundly impacted my life. I have a hard time wrapping my head around death– just ceasing to exist. After Dusty passed, I probably watched the WWE tribute video for him 50 times. I’m sure the same thing will happen after his airs this coming Monday on Raw. I managed to hold back tears last month for The American Dream, but I can’t make any promises this time.

I really hope that there is a beautiful place that we go to when our time here expires, and if there is, I hope Roddy showed up all out of bubble gum, ready to raise just as much hell beyond this place as he did in it.

http://www.cheap-heat.com/13-wrestlers-in-movies-superstars-of-the-silver-screen/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/13-wrestlers-in-movies-superstars-of-the-silver-screen/#comments Wed, 24 Jun 2015 15:43:38 +0000 Mark Adam Haggerty Top Lists Films Hulk Hogan Movies Pro Wrestling Roddy Piper ROH Sgt. Slaughter Terry Funk The Rock TNA WCW WWE http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=12595 Welcome back everybody to the number one countdown series on Cheap-Heat.com! My name is Mark Adam Haggerty and this is THE LUCKY THIRTEEN! When other sites give you too few with ten, or too many with twenty—I’m bringing you the Top Thirteen of Pro Wrestling! Top what, you ask? In the past we’ve covered everything […]

Welcome back everybody to the number one countdown series on Cheap-Heat.com ! My name is Mark Adam Haggerty and this is THE LUCKY THIRTEEN! When other sites give you too few with ten, or too many with twenty—I’m bringing you the Top Thirteen of Pro Wrestling! Top what, you ask? In the past we’ve covered everything from face paint to mustaches, and today we’re going to the movies! Professional wrestlers have always maintained a pretty solid presence on the silver screen. Before Hulk Hogan was ever “Mr. Nanny,” El Santo was performing in Luchador Films, and paved the way for other performers north of the border and beyond. Who was the greatest actor to have also laced up a pair of wrestling boots? Let’s find out together, starting with number thirteen!

13. Ernest “The Cat” Miller
Noteworthy Films: The Wrestler
Ernest Miller might not have the resume of some of his contemporaries, but this former Karate Champion and WCW/WWE Superstar was featured in an Oscar-nominated movie! That's pretty cool for a guy that never wore a championship belt! Most fans will remember Ernest Miller for begging fans to "call his mama," but fans of the cinema will likely recall his groundbreaking performance opposite Mickey Rourke in "The Wrestler."

12. Sgt. Slaughter
Noteworthy Films: GI Joe: The Movie
What movies featured Sgt. Slaughter? Okay you got me. This one is a bit of a cop out, but for good reason! Not only did Sgt. Slaughter star on the GI Joe animated series, but they based an all-original character on his likeness! Before they opted to reboot the franchise via live action, Hasbro released "GI Joe: The Movie." If you haven't seen it, then stop reading right now. In fact, don't ever come back to Cheap-Heat until you've seen it! I'm serious! The Joe's discover a hidden realm known as "Cobra-la," Cobra Commander becomes an actual snake, ROADBLOCK GOES BLIND, and there's an unstoppable super weapon known as "The BET." Oh, and Sgt. Slaughter is there! Definitely give this a watch the next time you're intoxicated, but not so fucked up that you can't find a copy of "GI Joe: The Movie."

11. Kane
Noteworthy Films: See No Evil, See No Evil 2,В MacGruber
The WWE has been helping to produce movies for years, going all the way back to "No Holds Barred." They also had a hand in developing "The Scorpion King" as well as "The Longest Yard," but it was "See No Evil" that put WWE Studios on the map. Kane stars as Jacob Goodnight, a deranged Jason Voorhees/Mike Myers amalgam—that kills people with a hook. I think it as a hook, I'll be honest, I haven't seen this movie since it was in theaters. Years later, Kane starred in the direct-to-DVD sequel directed by the Soska Twins, and even had a cameo alongside fellow WWE Superstars in the action-comedy "MacGruber."

10. Terry Funk
Noteworthy Films: Paradise Alley, Road House, The Ringer
Most people hear the name Terry Funk and think about barbed wire brawls and pile drivers through tables. In addition to being "middle aged and crazy," Terry Funk is an accomplished Hollywood star who has been featured in hit films, and has even served as the "stunt coordinator," in certain situations. Funk has been featured in a number of Sylvester Stallone films including the former NWA's first cinematic experience on the film "Paradise Alley." In later years, Funk began showing up in more comedic roles such as the box office flop "The Ringer," starring Johnny Knoxville.

9. Andre the Giant
Noteworthy Films: The Princess Bride, Conan the Destroyer
Andre the Giant is credited with breaking down walls for other wrestlers to star in mediums outside of the wrestling ring. Andre was not the first wrestler to appear on the silver screen however—Tor Johnson was making movies with Ed Wood in the 1950s, while Harold Sakata portrayed Oddjob in "Goldfinger." But Andre might have been the first wrestler-turned-actor that remained loyal to his roots. The aforementioned individuals all-but left their wrestling boots behind when Hollywood came calling, but Andre never turned his back on the industry that made him a star. Andre was given an uncredited role in the Conan sequel "Conan the Destroyer," alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, Grace Jones, and the even taller Wilt Chamberlain. Andre's most famous role came in 1987, when he was cast as Fezzik in the Rob Reiner cult-classic, "The Princess Bride."

8. “Stone Cold” Steve Austin
Noteworthy Films: The Condemned, The Expendables, Grown Ups 2В
He is one of the most iconic professional wrestlers in modern history. He has been featured in countless Wrestlemania moments, has worn an enormity of gold belts, and currently hosts a series of Texas-inspired reality competitions on cable television. Steve Austin has had unprecedented success in the wrestling ring and on the small screen; unfortunately his assent to the top of the sports entertainment charts never translated to box office success. Steve Austin has been acting since he was cast as a regular guest star on the CBS show "Nash Bridges," and has since appeared in a handful of cinematic releases and direct-to-DVD features. His most iconic appearances were perhaps as part of an ensemble cast; he appeared in "The Longest Yard" as an extremely racist prison guard, he was one of a dozen action heroes in the original "Expendables," and even stretched his comedic muscles in the Adam Sandler sequel "Grown Ups 2."

7. Kevin Nash
Noteworthy Films: TMNT 2: Secret of the Ooze, The Longest Yard, Magic Mike
Kevin Nash has had a long history of success in film, dating back to an uncredited appearance in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle sequel "Secret of the Ooze," in which he played Super Shredder. Nash has been more noticeable in recent years, appearing in everything from comedy to tragedy, and everything in between. He was one of several wrestlers to appear in "The Longest Yard," playing a prison guard that mistakenly ingested Estrogen supplements. Nash appeared in the box office smash hit "Magic Mike" starring Channing Tatum, where both men played male strippers. Kevin Nash continues to act, and also has a part in the sequel to Magic Mike, reprising his original role.

6. John Cena
Noteworthy Films: The Marine, 12 Rounds, Legendary
Go ahead! Groan! Believe it or not, I had John Cena at number three until I started whittling-down my list. If this countdown is based on box office success, than John Cena belongs somewhere toward the bottom. If this countdown is based on the number of movies any one individual has starred in, then John truly deserves to be up around the top. John Cena has been to WWE Studios, as Leonardo DiCaprio is to Martin Scorsese. Cena starred as the very first "Marine," he was the lead in "12 Rounds," and was featured prominently in the heart-warming sports drama "Legendary." In addition to hard-nosed roles, Cena has a softer side that has been showcased in comedy-flops such as the "Fred" series, and can even been seen in animated form alongside both Scooby Doo and the Flintstones.

5. Jesse “The Body” Ventura
Noteworthy Films: Predator, The Running Man, Demolition Man
When I was kid, Jesse Ventura was the color commentator for the WWE, and that's really all I knew about him. I had never seen him in a movie, but when you look at his credits, you can probably tell why a 5-year old wasn't privy to "Predator." Jesse was always talking shit about how Hulk Hogan "followed in his footsteps" and copied what he did in Hollywood. I remember Wrestlemania 2, Jesse was located in Los Angeles, where he proceeded to talk about "being among the stars" and all of his "famous friends." I still had no idea that Jesse Venture was a movie star. Like—a LEGIT movie star. In addition to his iconic role in "Predator," Jesse was also in the dystopian classic "The Running Man" with Arnold Schwarzenegger, as well as "Demolition Man" with Sylvester Stallone and Wesley Snipes. N

4. “Rowdy” Roddy Piper
Noteworthy Films: They Live, Hell Comes to Frogtown, Wrestlers versus Zombies
Now we're getting down to the nitty-gritty of pro wrestlers in film. If you gander at "Rowdy" Roddy Piper's filmography, there really isn't anything outstanding to recall. He just finished work on "Wrestlers Versus Zombies," and has had a recurring role as of recent on "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia." Piper is most famous for the cult-hits "They Live" and "Hell Comes to Frogtown." But it's not the quality of work when it comes to the Rowdy One, it's the quantity. Since 1978 Roddy Piper has starred in more than 40 featured films, as well as countless appearances on television.

3. Dave Bautista
Noteworthy Films: Riddick, Guardians of the Galaxy, SpectreВ
If you would have told me in 2010 that I would rank Dave Bautista as the number three Wrestler/Actor in the world, I'd call you crazy. And if you told me that on Facebook, I might just block you from ever talking to me again. But Geeze Louise! The former WWE World Heavyweight Champion has been on a roll as of recent. He began his acting career playing tough streetwise thugs in kung fu flicks and action films, and slowly transitioned to more character-based work. He was featured in "Riddick" alongside Vin Diesel, and in 2014 was one of the stars of Marvel's "Guardians of the Galaxy." Since playing "Drax the Destroyer" in Guardians, Bautista's stock has been soaring; this December, Batista will follow in the footsteps of Harold Sakata when he steps into the world of James Bond. I for one, cannot wait, as James Bond is a close-third to Star Wars and Pro Wrestling in my personal fandom.

2. Hulk Hogan
Noteworthy Films: Rocky III, No Holds Barred, Suburban Commando
Hulk Hogan might not have been the first wrestler to appear on the silver screen, but he was among the first to star in his own films! Hogan was first featured in Rocky III as the audacious Thunderlips, and went on to star in a litany of movies—some good, some bad, some terrible, and some so bad that they're good. His most iconic portrayals have been in WWE produced films such as "No Holds Barred" and "Suburban Commando," both of which also starred various other professional wrestlers. Hulk Hogan went on to make a number of kid's movies, such as "Mr. Nanny" and "Three Ninjas: High Noon at Mega Mountain," and even made a cameo appearance in "Gremlins 2." Most people might better recall the Hulkster for his role as Terry Bollea on the VH1 reality series "Hogan Knows Best," but Hulkamania might never have occurred, had Hogan never been cast in "Rocky III."

1. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
Noteworthy Films: The Other Guys, Hercules, San Andreas and a LOT mores
Without question the number one wrestler-turned-actor in history is Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. I couldn't even narrow his "Noteworthy Films" down to three! The Rock first appeared in "The Scorpion King," he starred in "Walking Tall," showed up in the "Get Shorty" sequel "Be Cool," and even played a TOOTH FAIRY! The Rock has proven time and again that he is equally competent in kicking ass, as he is showcasing his more gentle side. So as not to list every movie the guy has ever been in, I'll keep it to some of my personal favorites: "The Game Plan," "Get Smart," "The Other Guys," "GI Joe: Retaliation," "Pain and Gain," and three out of seven Fast and the Furious films. The Rock is currently starring on the brand new HBO series "Ballers," in which he plays a sports agent on a show described as "Entourage meets the NFL."

Until next time, please LIKE "The B+ Players Podcast" on Facebook , and FOLLOW me on Twitter for all the latest and greatest updates courtesy of Cheap-Heat and Daily Wrestling News!

http://www.cheap-heat.com/hall-of-fame-hopefuls-part-two-the-celebrity-wing/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/hall-of-fame-hopefuls-part-two-the-celebrity-wing/#comments Wed, 04 Mar 2015 22:45:17 +0000 Mark Adam Haggerty Blogs Other Blogs Alice Cooper Andy Kaufman Antonio Inoki Aretha Franklin Arnold Schwarzenegger Bam Bam Bigelow Bash at the Beach Big Show Bob Barker Capital Wrestling Corporation Cyndi Lauper Dennis Rodman Diesel Donald Trump Drew Carey Evander Holyfield Floyd Mayweather Gorilla Monsoon Hall of Fame HOF Hulk Hogan Jerry Lawler Joe Frasier Lawrence Taylor Leilani Kai Leslie Nielsen Lou Albano LT Mike Tyson Million Dollar Man Morton Downey Jr. Muhammad Ali New World Order NFL nWo Ozzy Osbourne Pat Patterson Price is Right RAW Roddy Piper Royal Rumble Shaq Shawn Michaels Ted DiBiase The Big Show the Outsiders The Undertaker Vince McMahon WCW Wendy Richter Wrestlemania WWE WWF Yokozuna http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=10191 Hall of Fame Hopefuls Part Two: The Celebrity Wing Written by Mark Adam Haggerty Welcome to the second installment of my Wrestlemania season mini-series, dedicated to showcasing deserving individuals who've yet to enter the WWE Hall of Fame. The first name added to the celebrity wing was Pete Rose in 2004. Since then, six additional […]

Hall of Fame Hopefuls
Part Two: The Celebrity Wing
Written by Mark Adam Haggerty

Welcome to the second installment of my Wrestlemania season mini-series, dedicated to showcasing deserving individuals who've yet to enter the WWE Hall of Fame. The first name added to the celebrity wing was Pete Rose in 2004. Since then, six additional personalities have been honored including William "the Refrigerator" Perry, Bob Uecker, Drew Carey, Mike Tyson, Donald Trump, and Mr. T. This year's spectacle in Santa Clara will feature Arnold Schwarzenegger as he assumes his place in history. With the exception of Drew Carey, I think the WWE has done a fine job of using discretion when inducting celebrities. Who can we expect to see enter the Hall in 2016—or even several years down the road at Wrestlemania 40 ? My name is Mark Adam Haggerty and this is "Hall of Fame Hopefuls Part Two: The Celebrity Wing."

Bob Barker – Inducted by Drew Carey
Several years ago, the WWE entered into an unenlightened period where every episode of Monday Night Raw had a different celebrity host. We saw everyone from Hugh Jackman to Seth Green to Shaquille O'Neill—and those were some of the more entertaining acts. But how about Pee-Wee Herman or Al Sharpton? Unfortunately outside-involvement has always had a polarizing effect on wrestling audiences. But that's not to say fans won't buy what a celebrity is selling, as long as the Price is Right ! Bob Barker may have only appeared on WWE television once, but has since become an honorary member of the WWE Universe. In 2009, Bob hosted "The Price is Raw," a mock-version of his daytime hit, where he engaged several Superstars including Santino Marella, Mike Rotunda, and Jillian Hall. His gameshow repartee with Chris Jericho will always be a highlight of those dark days of weekly hosts, and even at 91-years-old, Barker still possesses a tenacious "WWE Attitude." Should Bob Barker one day be asked to join the other members of the celebrity wing, he will be in exceptionally rare company, joining the current host of the "Price is Right," Drew Carey.

Aretha Franklin – Inducted by Vince McMahon
One of the most iconic images in WWE history, is that of Vince McMahon welcoming 93,173 screaming fans to Wrestlemania III at the Pontiac Silverdome. "And welcome to Wrestlemania three!" With that, the mastermind behind �Mania introduced a world-wide audience to the Grammy-award winning "Queen of Soul—Miss Aretha Franklin!" Aretha's rendition of "America the Beautiful" has withstood the test of time and inspired dozens upon dozens of artists to follow in her footsteps. Twenty years later when the WWE returned to Michigan, it seemed only fitting that the Detroit-native would be a part of the show. Once again, Aretha Franklin moved nearly 100,000 men and women from around the world with her singing that was both soulful and sultry. At just 72 years of age, it's entirely possible we could see Miss Aretha Franklin perform once again at Wrestlemania 33 in 2017. That seems like a perfectly fitting time to induct her into the WWE Hall of Fame.

Morton Downey Jr. – Posthumously Inducted by Roddy Piper
I was only 3 years old in 1989, but even well-into my teens I had trouble figuring out who Morton Downey Jr. was, and why was he at Wrestlemania V? I mean—is he related to ROBERT Downey Jr.? The answer is no, and to a generation a bit older than me, that probably sounds like a really stupid question. Morton Downey Jr. brought America to the brink of shock television before the phrase was ever coined. Years before Jerry Springer or Howard Stern, Morton Downey Jr. hosted an anything-goes talk show featuring vulgarity, sexism, racism, xenophobia, and plenty of cigarette smoke. Although the WWF hadn't established its "Attitude" just yet, Downey was just the sort of Superstar worthy of rubbing elbows with WWF's elite. In 1989, Wrestlemania returned to the Trump Plaza in Atlantic City, where Morton met his match on the mic in both Brother Love and "Rowdy" Roddy Piper. Love was quickly evacuated from the equation, leaving Morton Downey Jr. alone in "Piper's Pit." After blowing his cigarette smoke in Hot Rod's face one-too-many times, Piper decided to put out the flame with a fire extinguisher. Downey developed lung cancer in 1996 which cause him to shift his opinion on tobacco completely. He remained a staunch anti-smoking activist for the following five years until his untimely death in 2001.

Leslie Nielsen – Posthumously Inducted by The Undertaker
His work as a WWF detective was so iconic, that I almost forgot Leslie Nielsen was accompanied by Oscar-winning actor and longtime screen companion George Kennedy! It was in 1994 that the Undertaker disappeared following an unsuccessful championship casket match against Yokozuna at the Royal Rumble. For several months, �Taker was inexplicably absent from television until reports arose regarding potential "Undertaker Sightings." The WWF quickly enlisted the services of one of the most prolific gumshoes in all of comedy, and soon Leslie Nielsen began appearing on Monday Night Raw and Superstars. Things took an unexpected turn however, when the "Million Dollar Man" appeared on TV with his own version of the "Phenom." When Summerslam rolled into the United Center in Chicago, both Undertakers were set to square off, but the mystery had yet to be solved. George Kennedy was also in Chicago, and ready to team with his "Airplane" and "Naked Gun" costar once again, so that together they might uncover the truth revolving around the mysterious "Dead Man." Leslie Nielson passed away in 2010 following a career that introduced the world to over 220 different characters, one of whom cracked the case and brought the Undertaker back to the WWF.

Dennis Rodman – Inducted by Hulk Hogan
He certainly never had a defined skillset, but what he lacked in the ring, "The Worm" Dennis Rodman made up for in unequivocal charisma. By the time he joined WCW, Dennis was already a world-renowned basketball icon, despite several outlandish publicity stunts in his public life. When Hulk Hogan turned on his Hulkamaniacs and joined forces with the Outsiders, the man who use to pal around with Shaq was gone, leaving an opening for a far more controversial character. Rodman worked a number of WCW events including episodes of Nitro, Uncensored '97, Road Wild '97, as well as Bash at the Beach '97 and '98. He was so popular in fact, that WCW released a Dennis Rodman action figure, packaged with his NWO stablemate Hulk Hogan. Rodman has appeared alongside several WWE Hall of Famers such as Donald Trump for his "Celebrity Apprentice," as well as on "Hulk Hogan's Celebrity Championship Wrestling." Dennis Rodman is a legitimate 2-sport athlete who has committed to professional wrestling unlike anyone before or since. In my estimation, he most certainly belongs in the WWE Hall of Fame—but might have to wait until Wrestlemania goes to North Korea.

Floyd Mayweather – Inducted by the Big Show
Professional wrestlers and boxers have always had a special relationship, dating back to the days when promotors would showcase both sports on the same card. In fact, Vince McMahon's grandfather Jess established the Capital Wrestling Corporation with the mindset to also feature boxing. Over the years, numerous boxing legends have appeared on WWE TV—including Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, and Joe Frasier—so it was only a matter of time before the best fighter of the modern age stepped into the squared circle. Floyd "Money" Mayweather made his debut at WWE No Way Out in 2008, where he engaged in a physical altercation with the returning Big Show. �Show allowed Mayweather to hit him directly in the face, which resulted in a legitimate broken nose for the Giant. Their rivalry would develop further over the next month leading to a dramatic conclusion at Wrestlemania 24 at the Citrus Bowl. The media going into �Mania was unlike anything the WWE had experienced for quite some time; Mayweather and Big Show were on every television show, radio broadcast, and media outlet imaginable, making it just the THIRD Wrestlemania in history to surpass one million buys.

Cyndi Lauper – Inducted by Wendy Richter
When Wendy Richter was inducted to the WWE Hall of Fame, she closed her speech by quoting the �80s anthem—"Girls just wanna have fun!" As much as I appreciate Wendy for her contributions to the business, it wasn't the women's title that sold her match against Leilani Kai, but the presence of award winning recording artist Cyndi Lauper. Cyndi debuted on the musical scene that very year, walking out of the Grammy's with the award for "Best New Artist" just one month prior. It was her relationship with WWF manager Lou Albano that introduced Lauper to the exciting world of professional wrestling. Albano appeared in the video for her breakout single, playing the tyrannical patriarch unwilling to let "Girls Have Fun." The WWF began a new campaign mixing song-and-dance with Sports Entertainment—the "Rock �N' Wrestling Era" was defined by musicians such as Alice Cooper and Ozzy Osbourne, but it was Cyndi Lauper who made it official when she was physically attacked by "Rowdy" Roddy Piper. She was a pivotal component of the first Wrestlemania, and therefore belongs in the WWE Hall of Fame.

Muhammad Ali – Inducted by Pat Patterson
Most WWE fans will remember Muhammad Ali as the guest enforcer for the main event tag match at Wrestlemania I. But believe it or not, the former-Cassius Clay's involvement in Sports Entertainment goes back far beyond refereeing. In fact, Muhammad Ali began a full-fledge wrestling regimen following his final victory over Joe Frazier in 1975. Ali competed with some of the most influential wrestlers of the day, including a highly publicized encounter with future broadcast journalist and WWE Hall of Famer Gorilla Monsoon. But it was in Japan that Muhammad Ali truly made his mark on the wrestling mat, when he challenged national hero Antonio Inoki to a match that would be deemed "Boxer versus Wrestler." In 1984, Muhammad Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and subsequently forced to retire from any active competition. Today he lives with his wife Lonnie in Scottsdale, Arizona where he remains dedicated to Islam and the teachings of the Holy Qur'an. At 73 years old, it would seem that Muhammad Ali is the perfect candidate for the celebrity wing of the WWE Hall of Fame.

Andy Kaufman – Posthumously Inducted by Jerry Lawler
When I was a kid there was a special broadcast on Comedy Central all about Andy Kaufman, briefly touching upon his "Inter-Gender Championship," but focusing mainly on his television credits. It was surreal to see Monday Night Raw's heel commentator play the hero against Latka from "Taxi," especially after I discovered the true extent of their feud. Andy appeared in the Memphis territory in the early �80s, performing as an outlandish caricature of himself that would only wrestle women. As the act evolved, Kaufman began insulting the local crowd on a nightly basis, even sending offensive pre-recorded comments when he was otherwise unavailable. Lawler was the self-proclaimed "King of Memphis," and took it upon himself to fight for his city. Kaufman received a piledriver from the "King" which resulted in Andy wearing a neck-brace, claiming that his neck was broken. In 1982, the pair appeared on "Late Night with David Letterman," where Kaufman proceeded to throw coffee directly in the face of Lawler. Neither Letterman nor his world-wide audience were privy to the inside joke—the heat between Kaufman and Lawler was completely fabricated, and will go down as one of the greatest "works" in professional wrestling history.

Lawrence Taylor – Inducted by Ted DiBiase
When it comes down to the most deserving celebrity not already in the WWE Hall of Fame, fans needn't look any further than former New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor. Taylor went far and above the call of duty; when other athletes or actors entered the squared circle, it was to shill a personal project, or act as guest ring announcer. Nobody dreamed that a professional football player might headline the biggest show of the wrestling calendar; not since the inaugural Wrestlemania had Vince McMahon trusted someone other than his Superstars to carry the most important match of the night. But in 1995 the WWF reached out to one of the most visible faces in American sports and a future football Hall of Famer in his own right. The WWF championship featuring Diesel and Shawn Michaels was the match of the night, but wouldn't close the show as that honor went to L.T. and the "Beast from the East" Bam Bam Bigelow. Taylor proved that he took the sport of Sports Entertainment just as serious as any wrestler, and provided a memorable moment that will NEVER be forgotten. If the WWE decides to induct just ONE more celebrity, there's no doubt that it should be "L.T." Lawrence Taylor.

I hope you've enjoyed what is only the second installment of a five-part series. Join me next week as my "Hall of Fame Hopefuls" will include some of the most recognizable sports broadcasters to ever work in professional wrestling. Until then, this has been Mark Adam Haggerty, reminding you to check back here at Cheap-Heat and follow me on Facebook by LIKING "Mark Haggerty's Pro Wrestling."

http://www.cheap-heat.com/lucky-thirteen-7-bandits-of-the-bout/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/lucky-thirteen-7-bandits-of-the-bout/#comments Tue, 17 Feb 2015 00:02:19 +0000 Mark Adam Haggerty Top Lists AJPW All-Japan Pro Wrestling America's Most Wanted AWA Barry Windham Bart Gunn Beer Money Billy Gunn Blackjack Lanza Blackjack Mulligan Bob Holly Bob Orton Bobby "The Brain" Heenan Bobby Duncum Jr. Bobby Roode Brawl for All Chris Harris Chris Jericho Cowboy Bob Orton Cowboy James Storm Curt Henning Dory Funk Dory Funk Jr. ECW GWF Henry Godwinn Hulk Hogan Jake Roberts James Storm JBL Jim Crockett Jimmy Wang Yang John Bradshaw Layfield John Layfield Lance Cade Master P New Blackjacks NWA Outlaw Ron Bass Paul Orndorff Phineas Godwinn Randy Savage Revolution Road Dogg Roddy Piper Ron Bass Sam Houston Shanghai Pierce Shawn Michaels Stan Hanson Steve Williams Sunny Ted DiBiase Terry Funk Tex Slazenger The Blackjacks The Godfather The Smoking Gunns TNA Trevor Murdoch Vader Vince McMahon WCCW WCW West Texas Rednecks Wrestlemania WWC WWE WWF WWWF http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=9750 Lucky Thirteen #7 Bandits of the Bout Written by Mark Adam Haggerty When other sites are counting down from ten, we take it to the next level and give you the Lucky Thirteen. Why? Because we're Cheap-Heat and we believe in kicking things up to the extreme! Today we’re talking about Bandits and Outlaws, otherwise […]

When other sites are counting down from ten, we take it to the next level and give you the Lucky Thirteen. Why? Because we're Cheap-Heat and we believe in kicking things up to the extreme! Today we’re talking about Bandits and Outlaws, otherwise known around these here parts as Cowboys. Since the dawning of the age of Sports Entertainment, professional wrestling has featured an enormity of wrestling roughnecks who would appear just as comfortable on the back of a horse than they would inside of the squared circle. Let's start things off with one of the most modern members of our countdown and a graduate of the Shawn Michaels Wrestling Academy…

13. Lance Cade
Lance Cade was a superior talent who first happened upon the professional wrestling scene in Japan alongside fellow Shawn Michaels Wrestling Academy classmate Bryan Danielson. Cade had developed a penchant for tag team wrestling and in 2005 was called to the main roster in the midst of the "Ruthless Aggression Era." Originally sporting a cowboy hat and leather chaps, he was saddled with the equally talented and deceptively athletic Trevor Murdoch. Together these rugged ruffians captured the world tag team titles on three separate occasions. While Murdoch was depicted as a chaw-chewing Redneck, Lance Cade was cast as the smooth-talking cowboy with devilish good looks. The character carried him farther than he would have imagined into his singles career, eventually aligning with then-heavyweight champion Chris Jericho in 2008. Sadly on August 13, 2010, Lance Cade died at the age of 29 due to heart failure. Two months later medical examiners declared Lance "Cade" McNaught's death accidental, an apparent reaction to the mix of prescription drugs he'd been taking. Although his career was cut tragically short, "Cowboy" Lance Cade will never be forgotten and was even honored in 2011 by a local tribute show in his adopted hometown of San Antonio.

12. Tex Slazenger & Shanghai Pierce
Don't go messing with the country boys, because these two future Godwinn Cousins are far more dangerous than Phineas and Henry would ever prove to be. Well, in theory that is. While they're more familiar to most fans as the former WWF tag team champions, these hard-edged hillbillies got their first taste of fame wrestling as the fearsome Tex Slazenger and the mysterious Shanghai Pierce. Tex was a rootin' tootin' Texas roughneck complete with a ten gallon hat and all the appropriate accoutrement you'd associate with any accurate cowboy costume. Shanghai was a bit different as he opted to sport a luchador mask with a singlet—uh, not so much a cowboy, but definitely intimidating in its own way. Although they never captured championship gold under their southwestern pseudonyms in WCW, Tex Slazenger and Shanghai Pierce were also never adorned with the prestige of "Worst Tag Team in Wrestling"—an honor they received from Pro Wrestling Illustrated in 1996. And then again in 1997.

11. Jimmy Wang Yang
Perhaps the most charismatic individual on our countdown comes in at number eleven. Not only is he one of the youngest Superstars on the list, he's more than likely the only Korean Cowboy in wrestling history. Jimmy Yang was a skilled performer in the dying days of WCW and a key component in its highly inventive Cruiserweight Tag Division. After spending time on the independent circuit and in the WWE playing minor roles, Yang was brought in as a member of the main roster with "Wang" inserted between his first and last name. However instead of playing the Young Dragon whom audiences had already come to know, the WWE was going to draw upon Yang's affinity for country music and NASCAR in order to create an all new type of Superstar. Needless to say 2006 wasn't the most progressive year for the WWE, and a white-trash Korean character was probably just as suitable as The Wrestling Zombie or Paul and Katie Lea Burchill's incest angle. Despite never winning a championship title during his WWE run, Jimmy Wang Yang will always be remembered as one of the most iconic and original cowboys in pro wrestling history.

10. Bobby Duncum Jr.
Bobby Duncum Jr. was a refined second generation wrestling superstar who struggled to make his name after the decline of the territory system. Debuting in 1992, Duncum initially worked as a tag team competitor with the Global Wrestling Federation in Dallas, Texas. Two months into his debut, Bobby Duncum Jr. won his only championship ever —the GWF tag team titles alongside future WWE Champion and Monday Night Raw commentator Johnny "Hawk" Layfield. Although he worked around the world for countless promotions including ECW and All Japan Pro Wrestling, Bobby Duncum Jr. was most famous for his time in WCW as part of the "West Texas Rednecks." Joined by Kendall and Barry Windham, in addition to their leader Curt Hennig, the �Rednecks ran rough-shod over the WCW for a short period in the late 90s, claiming that "Rap is Crap," and entering into a rivalry with hip-hop recording artist Master P. In January of 2000, Duncum was recovering from reconstructive rotator cuff surgery, and accidentally overdosed on a cocktail of pain killers. He was 34 years old, and less than eight years into his career.

9. Sam Houston
The name "Sam Houston" tends to elicit both passion and pride from Texas natives, but unfortunately for Michael Smith, it's not the WWF cowboy whom they happen to admire. Sam Houston was the son of "Grizzly" Smith, and half-brother to both Jake "the Snake" Roberts and "Rockin" Robin. Houston was a well-known enhancement talent throughout the 1980s and 90s, working for Jim Crockett Promotions before finally breaking through to the World Wrestling Federation. He participated in several television matches which usually resulted in his shoulders being pinned to the mat, but even Sam Houston had a "Wrestlemania Moment," when he competed in the 20-man battle royal at Wrestlemania IV. Houston was also in the very first Royal Rumble match with his brother Jake, and though the audience wasn't privy to their relationship, Houston helped save the "Snake" from elimination on a number of occasions. In 2005, Sam Houston was sentenced to ten years in prison for repeated DUI offenses; according to his ex-wife, Houston had an average of 2 DUI-related arrests per year over the previous decade.

8. The Smoking Gunns
You can't say, "wrestling cowboy" to a �90's kid and expect him to think of anything other than The Smoking Gunns. Billy and Bart were a redesigned cowboy for a post-modern, pre-millennial world. They wore spandex made to look like skinny jeans and carried starter pistols which they shot into the air during their entrance. Wrestling cowboys were oftentimes out-of-shape and angry, swinging a cowbell with little regard for the surrounding audience members. But the Kayfabe brothers were different, smiling and shaking hands on their way to the ring and sporting far less menacing facial features than some of the more rugged individuals on our countdown. The �Gunns would become tag team champions on three separate occasions, owing their final title reign to their short-lived manager Sunny, eventually breaking up and going their separate ways. While Billy Gunn's career skyrocketed alongside the Road Dogg and Degeneration X, Bart Gunn stayed true to his roughneck roots, engaging in the highly dangerous, experimental "Brawl for All" shoot-fighting tournament in 1998. After defeating four other Superstars including Bob Holly, Steve Williams, the Godfather, and John Layfield, the last man standing was none other than Bart Gunn.

7. “Outlaw” Ron Bass
While a great deal of wrestling cowboys have been based out of the "Lone Star State," Ron Bass was one such individual proud of his roots in Harrisburg, Arkansas. The "Outlaw," as he would come to be known, was a ruthless heel during the late 1980s in the World Wrestling Federation. Prior to his would-be rivalries with the likes of Hulk Hogan and Brutus Beefcake, Ron Bass enjoyed a steady career touring the vast NWA territory system of the 1970s. He spent time with Jim Crockett as well as several years in Japan, but was most famous for his time in the WWF. In 1988, Ron Bass fought to the end of the King of the Ring tournament, and qualified for the finals by defeating future WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels. However the "Outlaw" would not advance to the main event against Randy Savage—instead choosing to "sell" his victory to the "Million Dollar Man," who would lose to Savage later that night. After nearly 20-years in the squared-circle, Ron Bass retired in 1991 and currently resides in Tampa, Florida.

6. The Funk Family
If I can include a tag team as one entry, then how about an entire family? Even though Dory Funk Sr. was born in Indiana, he will forever be known as the Patriarch of the "Double Cross Ranch" in Amarillo, Texas. After serving in the United States Navy, Funk Sr. began wrestling in Texas and would become a promotor in the Amarillo region where both his sons Dory Jr. and Terry would thrive as superstars. Dory Jr. was regarded as a master in-ring technician, famous for created the "Texas Cloverleaf" finishing hold. His younger brother Terry was the "wild child," much more akin to the cowboy lifestyle of the Amarillo Ranch. The Funk Brothers would make history, by becoming the only brothers in wrestling to each hold the NWA world heavyweight championship. In 2009, Dory and Terry were both honored as they were simultaneously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. Both brothers are still active in the wrestling industry; Dory Funk is the proprietor of the "Funkin' Conservatory" wrestling school in Amarillo, while Terry Funk is well beyond "middle-aged-and-crazy," as he still steps into the ring today at 70.

5. “Cowboy” James Storm
The only cowboy on our countdown that is still currently active inside a televised American wrestling ring is the 13-time tag team champion and former TNA world heavyweight champion, the "Cowboy" James Storm. Storm debuted in 1997 working for various NWA affiliates and the World Wrestling Council in Puerto Rico. After the collapse of WCW, the National Wrestling Alliance sought to fill a void by creating a weekly-PPV series known as Total Nonstop Action. James Storm signed with TNA in 2002 after working an impressive string of matches with then-tag partner "Wildcat" Chris Harris. Over the next four years, the duo known as "America's Most Wanted" would capture the NWA tag titles on six separate occasions. After spending a year on his own, Storm would once again "saddle up" with a partner—this time the "It Factor" Bobby Roode. Storm and Roode came to be called "Beer Money," based on either gentleman's Kayfabe affinity. Today James Storm is the leader of the cult-like "Revolution," and has therefore traded the cowboy hat for a veil of secrecy, and his beer bottle for a solo cup of "Kool-aid."

4. “Cowboy” Bob Orton
Fans of the modern WWE product who are familiar with the "Legend Killer," ought to know that Randy Orton comes from a long-line of wrestling royalty, including his father—"Cowboy" Bob Orton. Bob Orton was a main event attraction around the country during the 1980s but would become world-famous during the Rock �N' Wrestling Connection. Orton was fast friends with "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, so it was no surprise when the second generation star known as "Ace" was in "Hot Rod's" corner at the inaugural Wrestlemania in Madison Square Garden. Bob Orton was a key component during the period of time in which wrestling truly became "Sports Entertainment," providing back-up during several renditions of Piper's Pit. Although never achieving a championship during his time with the WWF, "Ace" held numerous titles across various territories in the United States and was named "Rookie of the Year" by PWI in 1973. In 2005, "Cowboy" Bob Orton was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame alongside fellow Wrestlemania pioneers Hulk Hogan, Roddy Piper, and Paul Orndorff.

3. John "Bradshaw" Layfield
Since 2004, JBL has been known as an arrogant aristocrat, riding to the ring in his limousine and winning his bouts by any means necessary. But John Layfield began just the same as many other Texas wrestlers, working for the Global Wrestling Federation in Dallas. He won the tag team titles in 1992 alongside Bobby Duncum Jr., and spent the next three years earning a wrestling education on the independent and international circuits. Layfield debuted for the WWF in 1995 as Justin "Hawk" Bradshaw, a badass brandishing a branding-iron who set to "stamping" each of his conquered opponents. In 1997, "Hawk" joined second-generation Superstar Barry Windham to form the "New Blackjacks," a team drawing on their real-life familial connections to the original "Blackjacks" Mulligan and Lanza. The "Bradshaw" character would continue to evolve over the next several years and although he's primarily known today as a talking head for both the WWE and Fox Business, John Layfield is a Grand Slam winning champion, making him THE most decorated cowboy on this entire countdown.

2. The Blackjacks
Transitioning away from the "New Blackjacks," it's about time we discuss the genuine article—the tag team of Blackjack Lanza and Blackjack Mulligan. The tall, dark duo clad in black leather were amongst the most feared tag teams of the 1970s, earning their reputation by standing tall atop numerous fallen combatants. The Blackjacks were an AWA attraction, managed by the incomparable Bobby "the Brain" Heenan, and also competed in Texas for Fritz Von Erich's World Class Championship Wrestling. The Blackjacks eventually made their way to New York where they would continue their reign of terror against a brand new roster of unsuspecting victims. While working for Vince McMahon, the Blackjacks aligned themselves with Captain Lou Albano, who helped guide the already world-renowned wrestlers to the WWWF tag team championships. Of course then in 1997, a "tribute" team was created, comprised of Mulligan's son Barry Windham and Lanza's nephew John Layfield. The Blackjacks were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2006; Blackjack Lanza currently works as a producer for the WWE, while Blackjack Mulligan has two grandsons working on the main roster—Bo Dallas and Bray Wyatt.

1. Stan “The Lariat” Hansen
Stan "the Lariat" Hansen is a performer whose mythos goes beyond the realm of cowboys and Indians, and further transcends the atmosphere of professional wrestling entirely. When the sport of sports entertainment was outwardly declared "fake," Stan Hansen lit the international scene on fire with his brand of explicit violence and a charismatic streak that ignited something inside fans across the globe. Stan Hansen was the AWA World Heavyweight champion and even competed for the WWF before earning his true place in history, across the Pacific in the "Land of the Rising Sun." During an infamous encounter with future WCW champion Vader, Hansen managed to clip Leon White with his cowbell, dislodging his eyeball and forcing the "Mastodon" to compete with his eye ajar inside his mask. Although claiming to be from Borger City, Texas—with a "big fat wife and a bunch of kids," the mild-mannered Hansen is actually a resident of Knox City, and has two sons, each of whom is a nationally-recognized baseball player. During his active wrestling days, Stan Hansen garnered a reputation for his no-nonsense approach to business, both inside the ring and backstage with promotors. Since retiring from the squared-circle in 2001, the "Lariat" has made numerous appearances in Japan, where he still receives the same standing ovation he did during his peak in 1981.

Thank you for joining me for this SEVENTH edition of the "Lucky Thirteen." Do yourself a favor and bookmark Cheap-Heat on your computer and in your mobile device so you don’t miss any of our countdowns, columns or coverage. As for me—I think it's about time for this Old Cowpoke to hit that there dusty trail. So until next time, my name is Mark Adam Haggerty and this has been "Lucky Thirteen: Bandits of the Bout."

http://www.cheap-heat.com/lucky-thirteen-2-top-13-years-of-the-past-2-decades/ http://www.cheap-heat.com/lucky-thirteen-2-top-13-years-of-the-past-2-decades/#comments Tue, 13 Jan 2015 02:16:40 +0000 Mark Adam Haggerty Blogs Other Blogs Top Lists 2 Cold Scorpio Adrian Neville AJ Styles Austin Aries Batista Bill Goldberg Bobby Lashley Booker T Bret Hart British Bulldog Bryan Danielson Chris Benoit Chris Jericho Christian Christian Cage Christopher Daniels CM Punk CZW Daniel Bryan Darren Young Dave Batista Davey Boy Smith Davey Richards David Arquette Dean Malenko Degeneration X Dwayne Johnson Eastern Championship Wrestling ECW Eddie Guerrero Edge Elimination Chamber Eric Bischoff Extreme Championship Wrestling Four Horsemen Goldberg Hell in a Cell HHH Hollywood Hogan Impact Jake Roberts Jeff Jarrett Jerry Lawler Kane Ken Shamrock Kevin Nash King Booker King of the Ring Kurt Angle Latino Heat Mankind Matt Sydal Mick Foley Money in the Bank Montreal Screwjob Mr. Perfect New World Order Nigel McGuinness Nitro NJPW NWA NXT One Night Stand Owen Hart Paul Bearer Paul Heyman Perry Saturn Phil Brooks Psycho Sid Radicalz RAW Razor Ramon Ready 2 Rumble Rey Mysterio RF Video Ric Flair Ring of Honor Rob Feinstein Rocky Maivia Roddy Piper ROH Royal Rumble Ryback Sami Zayn Samoa Joe Scott Steiner Sean Waltman Shane Douglas Shane McMahon Shawn Michaels Smackdown Starrcade Stephanie McMahon Steve Austin Stone Cold SummerSlam Survivor Series TAKA Michinoku Ted DiBiase The Alliance The Rock TNA Todd Gordon Total Nonstop Action Triple H UFC Ultimate Warrior Undertaker Vampiro Vince McMahon Vince Russo Wade Barrett WCW Wolfpac Wrestlemania Wrestling Society X WSX WWE WWF XFL http://www.cheap-heat.com/?p=8812 Lucky Thirteen #2 Top 13 Years of the Past 2 Decades Written by Mark Adam Haggerty I can’t remember back to a time before I was a wrestling fan. I can recall being six-years-old and thumbing through my parents modest little library of movies, suddenly stumbling upon a set of black Disney-like big boxes that […]

Lucky Thirteen #2
Top 13 Years of the Past 2 Decades
Written by Mark Adam Haggerty

I can’t remember back to a time before I was a wrestling fan. I can recall being six-years-old and thumbing through my parents modest little library of movies, suddenly stumbling upon a set of black Disney-like big boxes that contained the first five Wrestlemanias. From that day I was hooked. I began tuning into WWF Superstars and WCW Saturday Night every single week, and by the spring of 1993 I was begging my parents to order Wrestlemania 9 on pay-per-view. Over the past 20 years I’ve had my share of favorite moments, but I often ask myself, what was the best year in professional wrestling? Maybe not best, but how about the most influential? Most impactful? Okay here it is: What was the Most Important Year since I Became a Fan? When other sites limit their lists to Top Ten, we take it a Step Further with the Lucky Thirteen—counting down the Top Years of the Past 2 Decades.

13. 2003
The list had to start somewhere and after cutting away seven years of nonsense I thought, what better place to begin than with 2003. Looking back I feel as though the year felt much bigger than it really was. Momentous occasions like Wrestlemania XIX and Stone Cold's retirement drew considerable attention but it's hard to isolate many other memorable moments. By this point Total Nonstop Action Wrestling and Ring of Honor were both open and doing business, although nowhere near the level of success that they'd each see within a few short years. WCW had been closed since 2001, so WWE was slowly filtering out the Turner-holdovers and rebranding wrestlers like Booker T and Rey Mysterio as WWE Superstars. Twenty-oh-Three was the year Bill Goldberg made his long-awaited debut on Monday Night Raw where he famously told Dwayne Johnson, "You're next Rock!" In addition to a handful of interesting gimmicks and storylines scattered across the calendar, 2003 featured must-see-TV for anyone curious as to what lurked beneath the red and black mask of "The Devil's Favorite Demon" Kane. While it may appear dull in hindsight, 2003 was a fun time featuring the sex and violence of the Attitude Era, mixed with the incredible in-ring action so many of us value today.

12. 2010
Twenty-Ten proved to be an auspicious time for all wrestling organizations. Wrestlemania 26 featured the final match in the venerable career of "The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels when he failed to defeat The Undertaker in Glendale. But as one man's career ended, eight more were just getting started; the initial NXT program was a far cry from the extraordinary show we see each week on the WWE Network, but it did introduce the WWE Universe to Superstars such as Ryback, Wade Barrett, Darren Young, and even the future WWE World Heavyweight Champion Daniel Bryan. Twenty-Ten was the year in which the unimaginable happened when Bret "The Hitman" Hart made his return to WWE television after a thirteen year hiatus. But 2010 was big for the competition as well. Not only were independent promotions the world-over hitting their stride due to the added exposure brought-on by social media, but TNA was enjoying one of its most visible years to date thanks to signing Hulk Hogan, Eric Bischoff and a number of other established talents. In addition to inflating their roster, TNA made several changes to their product; they would begin to implement a traditional four-sided ring, and even attempted to compete live on Monday's with WWE Raw. The year 2010 was an exciting time for wrestling fans across the planet, and is the most modern year on my countdown.

11. 2007
It’s true that 2007 can hardly be considered a great year for professional wrestling, let alone the WWE. For a while it seemed that active wrestlers appeared on Nancy Grace more than they ever did on Raw or Smackdown. But if I'm here to countdown the most important years in wrestling, this certainly had its share of newsworthy events. In the summer of 2007, the WWE suspended more than half of its active roster in response to a litany of wellness violations for a variety of substances, most notably Human Growth Hormone. This year was historic for being the official end of "The Ruthless Aggression Era"—a period of time significant for exposing younger talent and transitioning the product out of the overtly controversial Attitude Era. In 2007 TNA expanded its flagship show IMPACT to two hours and embarked on what would be a defining age for the promotion. One of my favorite events in history happened in 2007, "The King of Europe Cup." The �Cup was a one-off event that took place over a two day period in the United Kingdom. A must-watch event that is readily available on YouTube and features well-known workers such as Adrian Neville, Sami Zayn, Matt Sydal, Davey Richards and a man who won the ROH World title in 2007—Nigel McGuinness. Sadly it's safe to say the most infamous moments of 2007 occurred between June 22nd and June 25th as the world became aware of the chilling circumstances surrounding Nancy, Daniel, and of course "The Crippler" Chris Benoit. Unfortunately for all of the positives, 2007 will forever be marred by the heinous actions of a troubled man that led to irreparable changes across the industry and what has been dubbed, "The PG Era."

10. 2006
It would appear as though 2006 was the last year representing any semblance of what was once regarded as a pop culture phenomenon. The ECW One Night Stand pay-per-view the previous year was such a success that WWE officials opted to resurrect Extreme Championship Wrestling complete with a one-hour timeslot on the Sci-Fi Channel. Edge and Rey Mysterio each made history in 2006 by becoming world champion; first Edge at New Years' Revolution and then Rey at Wrestlemania 22 in Chicago. Poised to be a contributing factor in the �New ECW', former champion Kurt Angle shocked the world in 2006 when he signed with TNA Wrestling. This year was famous for launching the career of current TNA Champion Bobby Lashley, as well as helping to define that of former Ring of Honor World Champion CM Punk. There were over a dozen debuts throughout the year due to ECW on Sci-Fi and Smackdown's "New Superstar Initiative." In Ring of Honor, the world title picture was dominated by Bryan Danielson who secured his spot atop the card from September 2005 until December 2006. In addition to WWE and TNA, MTV delivered an over the top unreal wrestling experience known as "Wrestling Society X." WSX only lasted one short season but familiarized fans with future names such as Matt Sydal and reintroduced established stars like Sean Waltman and Vampiro. Twenty-oh-Six was a great year for good storytelling that included Vince McMahon's rivalry with Shawn Michaels, Booker T becoming King Booker, and the continuing drama between Edge and John Cena. Rounding out the top ten, 2006 was an enjoyable year without much in the way of defining moments but never short on excitement.

9. 2000
When the new millennium dawned on the world of professional wrestling, so too did a number of landmark milestones and controversial occurrences. WCW released the unsuccessful "Ready 2 Rumble," starring a variety of World Championship Wrestling athletes and the man who would soon become WCW Champion—David Arquette. Not only was 2000 the year all WCW titles would be stripped and reassigned, it was also the year in which the World Championship was devalued and strapped to a B-list Hollywood celebrity. But not all was bad in the world of sports and entertainment as 2000 marked the first time Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson hosted Saturday Night Live, which he did to rave reviews. While Eric Bischoff returned to WCW, a new set of "Radicalz" debuted in the WWF; Chris Benoit, Eddie Guerrero, Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko all jumped ship and began appearing on WWF TV in the early months of the new millennium. The Year Two-Thousand was a defining era for the Undertaker who chose this year to swap his demonic demeanor for the apparel of the "American Badass." Hulk Hogan would say his final goodbye to his WCW fans thanks to a scenario gone wrong involving the Hulkster, Jeff Jarrett, and head-writer Vince Russo. An exciting year for wrestling of course with Kurt Angle capturing his first of many world titles, but perhaps the biggest thing to happen in 2000 was the debut of Vince McMahon's now defunct football league—The XFL. Whether you're a football fan or an admirer of the "Scream" film franchise, 2000 had something for everybody to get excited about.

8. 2005
If ever a year signaled things to come it was 2005. For fans of the WWE, 2005 was the year Monday Night Raw returned home to the USA Network after a five year run on Spike TV. Two first-time world champions were crowned at Wrestlemania—John Cena and Dave Batista. But TNA had its own share of successes in 2005: the company made its highly anticipated debut on Spike TV; Christopher Daniels, AJ Styles, and Samoa Joe had the only 5-Star Triple Threat Match in history; and Christian Cage signed a deal, opening the gates to a deluge of ex-WWE Superstars. ECW was in the midst of a resurrection that would culminate in 2006, but 2005 was the year the WWE hosted the first "ECW One Night Stand," in New York City. On the independent scene, a former backyard wrestler named Phil Brooks won the ROH World Heavyweight Championship from the highly decorated Austin Aries, thus placing CM Punk on WWE's radar. Later that year another future WWE Champion would capture the ROH World Title and hold it for over four hundred days—"The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson. Back in the WWE, six daring individuals were getting ready to introduce the world to "Money in the Bank," and later that year Shawn Michaels faced Hulk Hogan for the first time ever at Summerslam. Chris Jericho was fired by Eric Bischoff and then Bischoff himself was released resulting in Eric leaving the arena in the back of a garbage truck. But even in the silliest of times, sadness rears its ugly head and it was in 2005 that the world was forced to say goodbye to the former WWE Champion, "Latino Heat" Eddie Guerrero. From the highs to the lows, 2005 was an important year that no one will ever forget.

7. 1994
Not such an enormous year for the industry-leading WWF, but a landmark time period for much of the competition. Having survived his battle with the US Government, Vince McMahon was back in full control of his company; 1994 was the year of Wrestlemania X and the infamous bout between Razor Ramon and Shawn Michaels that would set the bar for ladder matches to come. The Undertaker mysteriously disappeared at the Royal Rumble and come Summerslam, the WWF fans were privy to not one—but TWO Undertakers! Of course this was the year that the Hart Family rivalry between Bret and Owen kicked into high gear, including a match of the year contender at Wrestlemania and a championship cage match at Summerslam. But outside the confines of the WWF, events began to take place that would lay the foundation for the Attitude Era. The NWA was the longstanding governing body of professional wrestling in the United States and Japan for several decades. In 1994 the NWA title was to be decided in Philadelphia at Todd Gordon's Eastern Championship Wrestling, with Shane Douglas set to win the gold. Instead Douglas disregarded the title, disgracing the NWA in the process by claiming he would not represent a company that, "died, R.I.P. seven years ago!" ECW broke away from the NWA and declared themselves Extreme Championship Wrestling with "The Franchise" as their champion. Down in WCW, Eric Bischoff was moving ahead by leaps and bounds thanks to an array of positive changes in production, including the debut of WCW Saturday Night at Disney's MGM Studios in Orlando. But perhaps there was nothing in '94 as monumental as when WCW signed Hulk Hogan. Bischoff wasted no time in booking the dream contest WWF refused to feature at Wrestlemania VIII two years earlier. In his debut match alongside Mr. T and Shaquille O'Neil, Hulk Hogan defeated "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair for the WCW Title. Who's to say if things had gone differently in �94, the industry of today might be something else entirely.

6. 1998
The Attitude Era might have started in �97, but 1998 was the year in which the world was introduced to the brand new World Wrestling Federation. WCW turned up the heat on the competition by introducing a brand new Thursday night program on TBS titled, "Thunder." This was the year that saw The Four Horsemen reunite on Monday Nitro including Ric Flair who had since left the company. The NWO was continuing to grow and would eventually split into two entities: NWO Hollywood with Hulk Hogan, and NWO Wolfpac lead by Kevin Nash. WCW cornered the video game market in �98 with one of the most prolific wrestling games in history—WCW/NWO Revenge for the Nintendo 64. Over in the �Federation, Superstars were beginning to get "hardcore" and a new title with a 24/7 stipulation was introduced on TV. Not only were the �falls' taking place backstage and in the audience, but from on top of the Hell in a Cell as Mick Foley was launched from the structure, and then drilled through it at the 1998 King of the Ring. WCW continued to beat the WWF in the Monday Night War due to a consistent strategy based on booking their top matches on cable, rather than pay-per-view. Bill Goldberg, who had already made a name for himself by maintaining an unprecedented winning streak made history when he became the WCW World Heavyweight Champion. But Bill was far from the only bald-headed badass to win gold in 1998. Earlier that year, Stone Cold Steve Austin captured his first world title after defeating Shawn Michaels at Wrestlemania XIV in Boston. It was a profitable year for all wrestling companies including ECW, but 1998 would be the last year WCW would succeed in dominating the WWF in the ratings.

5. 1996
Maybe it's because Shawn Michaels' boyhood dream came true at Wrestlemania XII; or the initial formation of the NWO at Bash at the Beach; even the insane rivalry between "The Excellence of Execution" and "The Texas Rattlesnake." Whatever it was, my personal favorite year in professional wrestling was 1996. The spring began with a bang as Scott Hall made his first appearance on Turner Television, joined just a few weeks later by Kevin Nash. In June of 1996, Stone Cold Steve Austin broke from Ted DiBiase and became the King of the Ring; during his royal coronation, Stone Cold uttered a phrase that would change his career forever—"Austin 3:16 says I just whipped your ass!" But just as heels began to turn face, so did longtime heroes turn to the dark side. Along with the debut of the New World Order was the introduction of the evil Hollywood Hogan, who won the WCW title in August 1996 and held it just six days shy of one year. The Survivor Series that fall was famous for memorable main event matches as well as a number of debuts including that of the first ever third generation WWF Superstar, Rocky Maivia. Paul Bearer made the turn on �Taker in favor of the far more deranged Mankind; The Ultimate Warrior and Jake Roberts returned for a short period, each feuding with Jerry Lawler; Roddy Piper was featured on both WWF Wrestlemania and WCW Starrcade; ECW was beginning to break out nationwide. But most importantly—the Monday Night War was just getting underway. WCW debuted Nitro on TNT in the autumn of �95, and it was in 1996 that WCW finally succeeded in stealing Vince McMahon's spotlight.

4. 2001
In terms of the industry changing forever, 2001 might have been the most cataclysmic year in wrestling history. It was this year that WCW fans became aware of what was to become of their preferred promotion. Although many familiar faces were involved in negotiating the resurrection of WCW, it was Vince McMahon who purchased his competition for a mere $2.2 million dollars—a price that included licensing, tape libraries, and the contracts belonging to twenty-two WCW performers. In addition to the end of World Championship Wrestling, Paul Heyman signed a deal with Vince McMahon in 2001 some months after ECW was unseated by the WWF as Spike TV's premier wrestling program. The World Wrestling Federation was the winner of the Monday Night War and the Attitude Era was at an end. The summer of 2001 was highlighted by the Invasion storyline featuring an enormity of former WCW and ECW talents rallying together against the WWF with Shane and Stephanie McMahon leading the charge. This would be the year that Stone Cold Steve Austin would turn heel twice, first by joining forces with Vince McMahon at Wrestlemania and then by turning on the WWF and joining the Alliance. Speaking of Wrestlemania, Houston hosted the Seventeenth annual extravaganza—an event like none other that included the highly revered TLC triple threat tag match won by Edge and Christian. On September 13th, Vince McMahon and the WWF Superstars set a national precedent by appearing in Texas just days removed from the World Trade Center attacks in what Vince called, "the largest public gathering of its size since the events of Tuesday." In December of 2001 the two world titles were unified in a competition that would see Chris Jericho beat The Rock as well as Steve Austin in the same night to become the first ever Undisputed WWF Champion in history. The year 2001 was a peculiar period for the wrestling industry as it was the only year in which the WWF was faced with no immediate competition.

3. 1999
With the Attitude Era in full swing, 1999 was an enormous year for the WWF both inside the squared circle as well as on Wall Street. The WWF became the first wrestling promotion in history to go public in 1999, and followed the success with a series of groundbreaking business decisions still in effect today. The company introduced Smackdown on the UPN Network on Thursday Nights as competition to WCW's Thunder on the TBS Superstation. The Rock was enjoying his inaugural championship title reign and would face Steve Austin for their first of three �Mania encounters at Wrestlemania XV in Philadelphia. Unfortunately the good can often be overshadowed by the tragic; on May 23, 1999 the world of professional wrestling lost one of its favorite stars when Owen Hart fell to his death in Kansas City, Missouri. Owen will never be forgotten as his passing was one of the most earth-shattering moments in history—wrestling or otherwise. Behind the scenes, longtime WWF head writer Vince Russo had become disenfranchised by the �Federation and jumped ship to rival WCW where Eric Bischoff was forcibly removed from his post as president. As WCW struggled during turbulent times, the WWF continued to prosper with the continuation of the McMahon/Austin saga, the further explored escapades of Degeneration X, and the debuts of The Big Show and Chris Jericho. The WWF would experience its first Monday night ratings victory since 1996 when Mick Foley defeated The Rock for the WWF Heavyweight Championship on a taped episode of Raw airing January 4th 1999. Titles changed hands that same night on TNT when Hollywood Hogan won the WCW title from Kevin Nash for a fifth time thanks to a booking misstep nicknamed "The Finger Poke of Doom." The Land of Extreme was also abuzz in �99 as this was the year ECW would debut on national cable television thanks to The Nashville Network, soon-to-be-known as Spike TV. The last year of the 20th Century was a period of growth for the WWF, but proved to be an unpredictable era for WCW, making it difficult to compete in the coming years of the new millennium.

2. 2002
If 2001 was the end of an era, 2002 was the dawning of a new age across the varied landscape of professional wrestling. The WWF began by changing its name to World Wrestling Entertainment in light of a conflict regarding the World Wildlife Fund. The campaign was dubbed "Get the �F' Out" and would help introduce audiences to an entirely new breed of "Ruthless Aggression," in the now-WWE. Two new promotions would rise from the ashes of the fallen WCW and ECW. There was former WCW Champion Jeff Jarrett's Southern-based Total Nonstop Action Wrestling—a subsidiary of the National Wrestling Alliance. TNA was originally intended to be a pay-per-view only promotion hosting ten dollar events once a week. In 2002 they crowned their very first Heavyweight Champion, former UFC and WWF competitor "The World's Most Dangerous Man" Ken Shamrock. Meanwhile RF Video—a pro wrestling video distribution company, was looking for a new promotion now that ECW was gone. Rather than working with established groups such as CZW, RF owner Rob Feinstein founded Ring of Honor and ran their first event, "The Era of Honor Begins" in April 2002. Back in the WWE, the entire roster was split into two warring halves—one set for Smackdown and the other relegated to Raw. The year was infamous for the seemingly relentless parade of surprise appearances that lasted the entirety of 2002. Former Superstars like Mr. Perfect and Scott Steiner became part of the current roster once more; Eric Bischoff debuted as the new General Manager of Monday Night Raw; the NWO opened No Way Out; but perhaps most surprising of all was the return of Shawn Michaels after more than four years away from the ring. Michaels captured the World Heavyweight Championship in the first ever Elimination Chamber Match when he defeated five other superstars including Triple H. Maybe one of the greatest years in the past two decades, but not quite number one.

1. 1997
The Number One Year of the Past Two Decades is 1997, and it shouldn’t be hard to see why. This year was the official launch of The Attitude Era in the WWF, signifying Vince McMahon's intention to compete with WCW on a whole new level. The competition didn't waiver however, as World Championship Wrestling was eager to meet the demand of audiences across the world. The "New Generation" made way for D-Generation X, a heel group similar to the NWO featuring Shawn Michaels and Triple H at the forefront. It was DX at the center of one of the most scandalous nights in wrestling—"The Montreal Screwjob." WCW was having its best year since Eric Bischoff took control of the company and bested their direct competition every week thanks to compelling storylines and the introduction of a former Atlanta Falcon named Bill Goldberg. The NWO storyline had yet to run its course and was complimented by the slow-build and impending confrontation between Hollywood Hogan and Sting at Starrcade. The Undertaker would become the WWF Champion for the first time in nearly six years when he defeated Psycho Sid at Wrestlemania XIII in Chicago, the same night Bret Hart and Steve Austin would wrestle their Match of the Year to a stunning conclusion. Paul Heyman's third party promotion dubbed Extreme Championship Wrestling would present their first ever pay-per-view event Barely Legal thanks in part to the promotion they received during the ECW Invasion of Monday Night Raw. The WWF became far more innovative during this period and introduced audiences to the Hell in a Cell and by circumstance the demonic younger brother of the Dead Man, Kane. It was also in 1997 that a hapless play-by-play announcer named Vince McMahon became one of the most detestable villains in professional wrestling history. The WWF would also begin debuting a number of midcard titles including the European Championship first held by The British Bulldog, and the Light Heavyweight Championship won by Taka Michinoku. WCW continued to maintain their edge in the ratings due to quality in-ring performances as well as plot twists and surprise appearances from WWF Superstars-turned-WCW Big Boys. It's not really a question: when asked about the single most action-packed and influential year from the past two decades of wrestling, I don't hesitate when I say 1997.

Conclusion
This list is ripe for discussion and debate, just as any other countdown featured in The Lucky Thirteen. You might agree, you probably disagree, I may have even listed your favorite year toward the bottom. It’s nothing personal, I promise. This list lives outside of the WWE Universe, but is of course greatly influenced by it. In regards to not including 2014, I didn’t want to include a year that hadn't yet concluded when I began compiling my information. I will say however with NJPW, the birth of the WWE Network, the salvation of TNA, and the first ROH Classic PPV, 2014 is sure to climb higher than any other year of the “Reality Era.” Whatever your feelings may be, I hope to see you again next week for another exciting countdown exclusively at Cheap-Heat. My name is Mark Adam Haggerty and this has been—The Lucky Thirteen.