Paul Jones [Highspots Shoot Interview with George South]
The Good
I've always enjoyed shoot interviews conducted by other workers because there is a natural camaraderie that comes through and that usually makes up for the lack of hard-hitting questions (which does not really exist in the pro-wrestling shoot interview universe). George South, a veteran journeyman of the Mid-Atlantic area, admits that Paul Jones was and is his favorite wrestler of all-time and he marks out continuously throughout this interview. The upside is that South is a really insightful person into the business and he is able to conduct a solid interview with the kayfabing Jones that I don't think others would have gotten. In addition to having a long-time relationship, South knows the career of Paul Jones very well and that makes this better than a great many RF Video shoots. This was a very different kind of shoot interview, even different from those I've heard Jim Cornette, Raven and Steve Corino conduct. This is good and I think most people, especially fans of the Mid-Atlantic and JCP days, would really enjoy this.
The Bad
Kayfabing in shoot interviews never plays well. Paul Jones does not seem uncomfortable in discussing things, but he does not use any lingo ("booing" instead "heat," "matchmaker" instead of "booker" as a few examples), never really gets into the backstage details and talks in vague terms quite a bit. I question if this was conducted by someone other than George South (I'd never heard of a Paul Jones shoot before this) whether or not this would have any value. He is not out to bury anybody and avoids openly wielding arrows toward Dusty Rhodes, Manny Fernandez and a couple others than he had issues with. He puts himself over quite strongly and while I don't question his popularity in the Southeast, you want to question some of his claims here. Overall this was worth a listen and while I was disappointed, it could have been much, much worse.
The Rating: ***1/2
Showing posts with label Highspots. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Highspots. Show all posts
Sunday, June 10, 2018
Friday, June 1, 2018
Tommy Young [Highspots Shoot Interview]
The Good
I've caught a couple shoot interviews with referees, announcers and interviews and they tend to be very good. These people tend to have had multiple roles in companies, have experiences with almost everybody and have this half-outsider perspective that is quite different. Tommy Young might be remembered as the main referee during the glory days of Jim Crockett Promotions (i.e. the NWA of the 80s), but he worked Detroit, the IWA (Eddie Einhorn's group) and WCW. His voice cadence is oddly similar to Lanny Poffo and he is just a good a storyteller, although not as eccentric. I found him to have most of the key qualities you want in the subject of a shoot interview. He was honest and reflective. For example, he found Abdullah the Butcher difficult to ref because of the gimmicks and carelessness in using them, however as a young guy breaking in, Abby took care of him up in Detroit. He shares those thoughts and more often than not has positive things to say about people. He is insightful in that he understands a referee's role and explains it very well, he understands match psychology and he has some good thoughts about how the business has changed. This was so different, it really set it apart from others.
The Bad
Like many people, Tommy Young had his favorites (Ric Flair, Ricky Steamboat, Gene Anderson, etc.) and he puts them over. He also has people he had issues with (Paul Jones, Tommy Rich, Tully Blanchard, etc.) and he tries to be straightforward about those issues without totally burying the person. I imagine some people would find that obnoxious (that has long been the biggest knock on the Dynamite Kid's autobiography) and they would not enjoy this as much. While Tommy does not bury people like others might, he has his own perspective and shares it. Sometimes, he seems a little to nice guy because he does not want to really tear into anyone. Paul Jones, often labelled as an office stooge, seems like that one guy and we get a "no comment" response. I'm sure many people simply don't care for shoot interviews with people who were not "stars" and Tommy Young, although a top referee, was not a top star in pro-wrestling.
The Rating: ****1/2
The Good
I've caught a couple shoot interviews with referees, announcers and interviews and they tend to be very good. These people tend to have had multiple roles in companies, have experiences with almost everybody and have this half-outsider perspective that is quite different. Tommy Young might be remembered as the main referee during the glory days of Jim Crockett Promotions (i.e. the NWA of the 80s), but he worked Detroit, the IWA (Eddie Einhorn's group) and WCW. His voice cadence is oddly similar to Lanny Poffo and he is just a good a storyteller, although not as eccentric. I found him to have most of the key qualities you want in the subject of a shoot interview. He was honest and reflective. For example, he found Abdullah the Butcher difficult to ref because of the gimmicks and carelessness in using them, however as a young guy breaking in, Abby took care of him up in Detroit. He shares those thoughts and more often than not has positive things to say about people. He is insightful in that he understands a referee's role and explains it very well, he understands match psychology and he has some good thoughts about how the business has changed. This was so different, it really set it apart from others.
The Bad
Like many people, Tommy Young had his favorites (Ric Flair, Ricky Steamboat, Gene Anderson, etc.) and he puts them over. He also has people he had issues with (Paul Jones, Tommy Rich, Tully Blanchard, etc.) and he tries to be straightforward about those issues without totally burying the person. I imagine some people would find that obnoxious (that has long been the biggest knock on the Dynamite Kid's autobiography) and they would not enjoy this as much. While Tommy does not bury people like others might, he has his own perspective and shares it. Sometimes, he seems a little to nice guy because he does not want to really tear into anyone. Paul Jones, often labelled as an office stooge, seems like that one guy and we get a "no comment" response. I'm sure many people simply don't care for shoot interviews with people who were not "stars" and Tommy Young, although a top referee, was not a top star in pro-wrestling.
The Rating: ****1/2
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Stevie Ray [Highspots Shoot Interview]
The Good
Stevie Ray is probably best known as the bigger and not-as-talent brother of Booker T. The two partnered for a long time as Harlem Heat and were a very good tag team before splitting and going in very different career directions. While I was never a big fan of his work, Stevie Ray undoubtedly had a certain charisma that was never fully tapped. Sid Vicious, who brought them into WCW from Global, thought Stevie Ray was the real talent in the pair. Stevie certainly had the love for pro-wrestling that propelled himself and his younger brother into the business in the first place. What was amazing about this interview is that Stevie Ray really seems like a guy who should've gone so much further, but was never in that perfect spot. He was a massive guy, a decent promo and a competent worker, but he clearly has an insight into the sport that never came out. WCW tried him out as a commentator and interview, but did not nurture him properly. One can hear in this interview that Stevie Ray is a well-spoken and well-read individual and that matched with his unique catchphrases could've led him to being a quality color man like Tazz or even his brother nowadays. In this interview, Stevie Ray got himself over and someone with a distinct viewpoint on the profession and one that needs to be expounded upon. One particular facet of his career that was interesting was his belief that when the Harlem Heat hooked up with Sherri Martel, they were all able to push their careers to another level and that they did something special that was lost when she was fired.
The Bad
As much as I found this shoot interview interesting, Highspots shoots conducted by people other than Michael Bochicchio are never as good. Clearly they wanted to limit the questions or discussion of Booker T (which is good to a point, but seemed odd here), there was little discussion of "Big T" Ahmed Johnson (who described Stevie Ray as one of his closest friends in the business) and there just something missing about this otherwise shockingly good interview. Stevie Ray has a keen mind on the business and it seems like this could've focused more on his perspectives on things because many times he had something interesting to say. I particularly found his concepts of pushing blacks in pro-wrestling, the lack of "superstars" in the current product and even the WWE's inadequate pushing of Booker were all fascinating and should've been explored deeper.
The Rating: ***3/4
The Good
Stevie Ray is probably best known as the bigger and not-as-talent brother of Booker T. The two partnered for a long time as Harlem Heat and were a very good tag team before splitting and going in very different career directions. While I was never a big fan of his work, Stevie Ray undoubtedly had a certain charisma that was never fully tapped. Sid Vicious, who brought them into WCW from Global, thought Stevie Ray was the real talent in the pair. Stevie certainly had the love for pro-wrestling that propelled himself and his younger brother into the business in the first place. What was amazing about this interview is that Stevie Ray really seems like a guy who should've gone so much further, but was never in that perfect spot. He was a massive guy, a decent promo and a competent worker, but he clearly has an insight into the sport that never came out. WCW tried him out as a commentator and interview, but did not nurture him properly. One can hear in this interview that Stevie Ray is a well-spoken and well-read individual and that matched with his unique catchphrases could've led him to being a quality color man like Tazz or even his brother nowadays. In this interview, Stevie Ray got himself over and someone with a distinct viewpoint on the profession and one that needs to be expounded upon. One particular facet of his career that was interesting was his belief that when the Harlem Heat hooked up with Sherri Martel, they were all able to push their careers to another level and that they did something special that was lost when she was fired.
The Bad
As much as I found this shoot interview interesting, Highspots shoots conducted by people other than Michael Bochicchio are never as good. Clearly they wanted to limit the questions or discussion of Booker T (which is good to a point, but seemed odd here), there was little discussion of "Big T" Ahmed Johnson (who described Stevie Ray as one of his closest friends in the business) and there just something missing about this otherwise shockingly good interview. Stevie Ray has a keen mind on the business and it seems like this could've focused more on his perspectives on things because many times he had something interesting to say. I particularly found his concepts of pushing blacks in pro-wrestling, the lack of "superstars" in the current product and even the WWE's inadequate pushing of Booker were all fascinating and should've been explored deeper.
The Rating: ***3/4
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Ahmed Johnson ["Highspots" Shoot Interview]
The Good
If you take nothing else away from this interview, realize that for all his personal problems, Ahmed Johnson could've been a major player. While his work had its flaws, Ahmed had an unbelievable intensity that very few have. He certainly puts over that strength of his here and rightly so. While that factor did intrigue me during his WWF run, I felt people like Randy Savage, Goldberg, Sid Vicious and especially Chris Benoit were able to kick their careers to a higher level and became bonafide top guys as a result. Ahmed really could have been a top guy and this shoot interview gives perspective on why that did not happen. He does feel he was cooled off, miscast as a heel briefly and undermined by some people (he particularly targets Steve Austin as a racist), although ultimately he left due to his sister's health problems and never recovered from that life-changing situation. The interview does get into some of the dirt about him and he seems to respond with sensible answers to everything - his work being too stiff, him stealing the LOD's shoulder pads, his steroid abuse, his unreliability.
The Bad
Ahmed Johnson's legacy is certainly tarnished and he will probably be remembered favorably by a small number of people. Few of his peers say highly positive things about him, he was a rising star in the WWF when it was at its lowest point and he left before the boom. This shoot interview gives him the opportunity to clarify his place. He put himself over very strongly and leaves the impression that he is not highly regretful of leaving when he did. If he had stayed and kept his head on straight, Ahmed Johnson could have very well been a key component in the Attitude Era. The interview does not really take that corner though. There are also the tales of him dealing drugs, pimping underage girls and his membership in the Bloods (he has repeatedly confirmed the last issue) that go unexplored, but certainly are part of his story. This shoot interview is one that has been put over as great and it simply was not.
The Rating: ***1/4
The Good
If you take nothing else away from this interview, realize that for all his personal problems, Ahmed Johnson could've been a major player. While his work had its flaws, Ahmed had an unbelievable intensity that very few have. He certainly puts over that strength of his here and rightly so. While that factor did intrigue me during his WWF run, I felt people like Randy Savage, Goldberg, Sid Vicious and especially Chris Benoit were able to kick their careers to a higher level and became bonafide top guys as a result. Ahmed really could have been a top guy and this shoot interview gives perspective on why that did not happen. He does feel he was cooled off, miscast as a heel briefly and undermined by some people (he particularly targets Steve Austin as a racist), although ultimately he left due to his sister's health problems and never recovered from that life-changing situation. The interview does get into some of the dirt about him and he seems to respond with sensible answers to everything - his work being too stiff, him stealing the LOD's shoulder pads, his steroid abuse, his unreliability.
The Bad
Ahmed Johnson's legacy is certainly tarnished and he will probably be remembered favorably by a small number of people. Few of his peers say highly positive things about him, he was a rising star in the WWF when it was at its lowest point and he left before the boom. This shoot interview gives him the opportunity to clarify his place. He put himself over very strongly and leaves the impression that he is not highly regretful of leaving when he did. If he had stayed and kept his head on straight, Ahmed Johnson could have very well been a key component in the Attitude Era. The interview does not really take that corner though. There are also the tales of him dealing drugs, pimping underage girls and his membership in the Bloods (he has repeatedly confirmed the last issue) that go unexplored, but certainly are part of his story. This shoot interview is one that has been put over as great and it simply was not.
The Rating: ***1/4
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Ernie Ladd [Highspots Shoot Interview]
The Good
Ernie Ladd is a well-spoken and sharp man whose athletic background and role as top star in pro-wrestling make him unlike anyone else who ever came down the pike. In addition to having an amazing career to talk about, Ladd had some interesting stories of racism in the Deep South, his political views which are interesting as a black man who is a long-time Republican and even his story of being "saved" was unique. I found Ladd to be a great storyteller and while not as over-the-top as his promos (he was in the latter stages of the cancer that would take his life), he really pulled you in. Initially, I was on the fence about whether or not the detailing of his extensive and impressive football career would be a huge addition, but he was so adamant about his greatness, so fiery about Grambling's and the SWAC's legacy of great football players and so passionate about describing the unusual cohesiveness (across racial lines even) of the AFL's San Diego Chargers that you had enjoy it. He even called the question of "how would Grambling have stacked up against the white teams that they couldn't play" out as being "stupid" because clearly they would have crushed anybody! You get some great insight into the greatness of the "Big Cat."
The Bad
I sometimes hold off on listening to a shoot interview in anticipation of it being really awesome. This was one of those and it was good, but it did not blow me away. Ladd is one of my all-time favorite promos and this was not a promo (not that it should've been), so much of his fire and humor were missing. He showed hints of both, but this was the musings of a dying old man, not the rantings of a man in his prime. Clearly Highspots had a two-hour time frame because they seemed to be limited in their depth and it could've easily been twice as long. I think if prompted appropriate Ladd might have delivered a little more strongly, but it was an average interview with an average interviewer and an above-average legend, so they is some disappointment there for me. Especially since Ernie Ladd is no longer with us.
The Rating: ****
The Good
Ernie Ladd is a well-spoken and sharp man whose athletic background and role as top star in pro-wrestling make him unlike anyone else who ever came down the pike. In addition to having an amazing career to talk about, Ladd had some interesting stories of racism in the Deep South, his political views which are interesting as a black man who is a long-time Republican and even his story of being "saved" was unique. I found Ladd to be a great storyteller and while not as over-the-top as his promos (he was in the latter stages of the cancer that would take his life), he really pulled you in. Initially, I was on the fence about whether or not the detailing of his extensive and impressive football career would be a huge addition, but he was so adamant about his greatness, so fiery about Grambling's and the SWAC's legacy of great football players and so passionate about describing the unusual cohesiveness (across racial lines even) of the AFL's San Diego Chargers that you had enjoy it. He even called the question of "how would Grambling have stacked up against the white teams that they couldn't play" out as being "stupid" because clearly they would have crushed anybody! You get some great insight into the greatness of the "Big Cat."
The Bad
I sometimes hold off on listening to a shoot interview in anticipation of it being really awesome. This was one of those and it was good, but it did not blow me away. Ladd is one of my all-time favorite promos and this was not a promo (not that it should've been), so much of his fire and humor were missing. He showed hints of both, but this was the musings of a dying old man, not the rantings of a man in his prime. Clearly Highspots had a two-hour time frame because they seemed to be limited in their depth and it could've easily been twice as long. I think if prompted appropriate Ladd might have delivered a little more strongly, but it was an average interview with an average interviewer and an above-average legend, so they is some disappointment there for me. Especially since Ernie Ladd is no longer with us.
The Rating: ****
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Bill Apter [Highspots Shoot Interview]
The Good
For those who did not grow up with the "Apter Mags," it is hard to put in perspective how influential they really were. I have my own memories of waiting anxiously for the latest to come in and I still have dozens and dozens in storage. These magazines, even though they held up kayfabe, were huge in getting talent national recognition. Bill Apter, while not the first and maybe not even the best, became synonymous with pro-wrestling magazines. While a magazine writer might not have the most interesting tale, Apter is a great storyteller, does great impressions and traveled widely after being a fan as a youngster in the 1960s. His explanations of the changes in the magazine industry, its role in the business and how it impacted his own life and career are really fascinating. It seems funny because there were obviously innumerable people who were pro-wrestling photographers, journalists, sheet writers and such, but none seem to have been as involved as Apter. His tales of encounters with transvestites in Japan with Terry Funk, being puked on by Road Warrior Hawk and being chewed out by Vince McMahon Sr. for putting Mil Mascaras on the cover of magazines were just a few glimpses into the unique life he's lived. Apter has a great sense of humor and does not let himself get pinned down to much with chronology, politics or bad feelings.
The Bad
I feel like Bill Apter is the type that could probably do a dozen interviews and never run out of funny stories or interesting insight into the industry. I've heard him a handful of times and he never seems to tell the same anecdotes. So, I almost feel a little cheated here because it just was not long enough. Seriously though, this is as good of an interview as I'd expect with someone who never worked in the business (per say). There are always going to people who have their taste in shoot interviews and this might not be salacious or angry enough for some. Apter is largely positive about everything and delivers a great light-hearted interview.
The Rating: ****3/4
The Good
For those who did not grow up with the "Apter Mags," it is hard to put in perspective how influential they really were. I have my own memories of waiting anxiously for the latest to come in and I still have dozens and dozens in storage. These magazines, even though they held up kayfabe, were huge in getting talent national recognition. Bill Apter, while not the first and maybe not even the best, became synonymous with pro-wrestling magazines. While a magazine writer might not have the most interesting tale, Apter is a great storyteller, does great impressions and traveled widely after being a fan as a youngster in the 1960s. His explanations of the changes in the magazine industry, its role in the business and how it impacted his own life and career are really fascinating. It seems funny because there were obviously innumerable people who were pro-wrestling photographers, journalists, sheet writers and such, but none seem to have been as involved as Apter. His tales of encounters with transvestites in Japan with Terry Funk, being puked on by Road Warrior Hawk and being chewed out by Vince McMahon Sr. for putting Mil Mascaras on the cover of magazines were just a few glimpses into the unique life he's lived. Apter has a great sense of humor and does not let himself get pinned down to much with chronology, politics or bad feelings.
The Bad
I feel like Bill Apter is the type that could probably do a dozen interviews and never run out of funny stories or interesting insight into the industry. I've heard him a handful of times and he never seems to tell the same anecdotes. So, I almost feel a little cheated here because it just was not long enough. Seriously though, this is as good of an interview as I'd expect with someone who never worked in the business (per say). There are always going to people who have their taste in shoot interviews and this might not be salacious or angry enough for some. Apter is largely positive about everything and delivers a great light-hearted interview.
The Rating: ****3/4
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Vampiro [Highspots Shoot Interview]
The Good
Billy Jack Haynes, Jamie Dundee, Iron Sheik - what do all these people have in common? Despite the fact they had pretty successful careers despite screwing things up several times over, they have become known as some of the most entertaining shoot interviews because they may, in fact, be insane. Vampiro could easily fit in with that group. I've heard him do some interviews where he seemed a little goofy, but this one with Highspots is over-the-top. He is a walking contradiction. He both rambles and hits the points he wanted to make, he comes across as both bitter and satisfied with his career, he is both self-deprecating and self-promoting, he both buries and puts people over again and again, he states his goal is to both "just have fun" and be deadly serious about his craft and then he hates on workers and fans who take it too seriously. This interview is so impossibly strange that it must be seen or heard to be believed. There is some good stuff about his days in Mexico that if you can decipher them are worth catching.
The Bad
Vampiro is insane and it's hard to overly enjoy listening to a crazy person. This is train-wreck like material as his endless contradictions seems to totally undermine his credibility and sanity. I know there is always the issue with shoot interviews being done when talent is tired and sometimes under the influence, but this is beyond that. Vampiro is all over the place and part of him seems to understand that fact as he repeatedly questions the quality of this shoot interview. People might have a variety of interests when listening to this, but I can assure you that none of your questions or curiosities will be answered.
The Rating: ***1/4
The Good
Billy Jack Haynes, Jamie Dundee, Iron Sheik - what do all these people have in common? Despite the fact they had pretty successful careers despite screwing things up several times over, they have become known as some of the most entertaining shoot interviews because they may, in fact, be insane. Vampiro could easily fit in with that group. I've heard him do some interviews where he seemed a little goofy, but this one with Highspots is over-the-top. He is a walking contradiction. He both rambles and hits the points he wanted to make, he comes across as both bitter and satisfied with his career, he is both self-deprecating and self-promoting, he both buries and puts people over again and again, he states his goal is to both "just have fun" and be deadly serious about his craft and then he hates on workers and fans who take it too seriously. This interview is so impossibly strange that it must be seen or heard to be believed. There is some good stuff about his days in Mexico that if you can decipher them are worth catching.
The Bad
Vampiro is insane and it's hard to overly enjoy listening to a crazy person. This is train-wreck like material as his endless contradictions seems to totally undermine his credibility and sanity. I know there is always the issue with shoot interviews being done when talent is tired and sometimes under the influence, but this is beyond that. Vampiro is all over the place and part of him seems to understand that fact as he repeatedly questions the quality of this shoot interview. People might have a variety of interests when listening to this, but I can assure you that none of your questions or curiosities will be answered.
The Rating: ***1/4
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Ronnie P. Gossett [Highspots Shoot Interview]
The Good
If you don't know who Ronnie P. Gossett is, he is a heel manager of the Percy Pringle, Jim Cornette or Kenny Bolin grain. A slick talker who plays an arrogant, yet blubbery Southern jerk, Gossett never really traveled much outside of Tennessee where he was staple for a long time. Sometimes listening to that guy who worked a territory for many years is more fascinating because there is more depth. Listening to his thoughts on Nick Gulas, Jerry Jarrett and Jerry Lawler was insightful. I've always been under the impression that Jarrett's booking was superior to Lawler's (they switched off every six months), but Gossett refutes that. He has choice comments for all kinds of stars who came through the Tennessee region. Certainly there were many and he had anecdotes about many and opinions on people whether they came through or not. There is all kind of great tales here, whether it is Ronnie selling Nick Gulas's promotion to some "marks" (a lawyer, a doctor, etc.) or him talking about Brian Pillman being a gigolo. Gossett is a fantastic talker (he was a great Southern manager after all), so he is able to really bury some people. The Jarretts, Hulk Hogan, Bill Dundee, Missy Hyatt, Bert Prentice and on and on, no one is immune to the wrath of Ronnie P. Gossett.
The Bad
If you don't have any interest in Southern wrestling, specifically Tennessee rasslin', then you probably will not care for this. Honestly, Gossett does not seem bitter, but he certainly has some grudges. He has a lot of negative things to say and rips on a lot of people, if that seems bitter or angry to you, then avoid this shoot interview. The one thing I felt was missing was that it was pretty widely known that Gossett was gay. Although not part of his persona, it just seems that his life in pro-wrestling as a gay man has some intrigue that was never touched upon here. Sadly, Gossett died shortly after this interview.
The Rating: ***3/4
The Good
If you don't know who Ronnie P. Gossett is, he is a heel manager of the Percy Pringle, Jim Cornette or Kenny Bolin grain. A slick talker who plays an arrogant, yet blubbery Southern jerk, Gossett never really traveled much outside of Tennessee where he was staple for a long time. Sometimes listening to that guy who worked a territory for many years is more fascinating because there is more depth. Listening to his thoughts on Nick Gulas, Jerry Jarrett and Jerry Lawler was insightful. I've always been under the impression that Jarrett's booking was superior to Lawler's (they switched off every six months), but Gossett refutes that. He has choice comments for all kinds of stars who came through the Tennessee region. Certainly there were many and he had anecdotes about many and opinions on people whether they came through or not. There is all kind of great tales here, whether it is Ronnie selling Nick Gulas's promotion to some "marks" (a lawyer, a doctor, etc.) or him talking about Brian Pillman being a gigolo. Gossett is a fantastic talker (he was a great Southern manager after all), so he is able to really bury some people. The Jarretts, Hulk Hogan, Bill Dundee, Missy Hyatt, Bert Prentice and on and on, no one is immune to the wrath of Ronnie P. Gossett.
The Bad
If you don't have any interest in Southern wrestling, specifically Tennessee rasslin', then you probably will not care for this. Honestly, Gossett does not seem bitter, but he certainly has some grudges. He has a lot of negative things to say and rips on a lot of people, if that seems bitter or angry to you, then avoid this shoot interview. The one thing I felt was missing was that it was pretty widely known that Gossett was gay. Although not part of his persona, it just seems that his life in pro-wrestling as a gay man has some intrigue that was never touched upon here. Sadly, Gossett died shortly after this interview.
The Rating: ***3/4
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Italian Stallion [Highspots Shoot Interview]
The Good
A classic underneath talent, whose legitimacy, influence and background made for some surprising and fascinating listening. Stallion's background as a decorated amateur wrestler with Olympic potential was nothing short of shocking. Furthermore, he took that skill set and became a bookie is just as shocking. The story of this tough guy who set a World record in spaghetti-eating transitioning to pro-wrestling is so bizarre it seems unlikely. Stallion did work with a lot of big stars and was able to have a distinct career, so he has the types of stories and perspectives that make for a worthwhile shoot interview. He was a good storyteller for the most part, so I think Michael Bochicchio's assumption that old-school fans of Jim Crockett Promotions are the ones who'll buy this shoot is an accurate one. The one story in here that stood out above all the others, in my opinion, was the one where Ronnie Garvin recruited him to get back money from Angelo Poffo from back in the ICW days. Garvin and Lanny Poffo are the only two talking and neither says much about the ICW, so any tidbit (such as this, true or not) is welcome.
The Bad
An amateur wrestling career that reached almost Olympic proportions? A personal recommendation letter from Vince McMahon Sr. to get into the business? A free ride from the Crocketts while breaking in? I do not have information to contradict this, but it seems almost ludicrous enough that I want to doubt it at face value. Many pro-wrestlers though, especially pre-wrestling school pro-wrestlers, have these kinds of unusual tales of getting into the business. Then comes Stallion's interaction with the Hardy Boyz. While I'm sure both of them did exactly tell the whole truth, his version is a rebuttal to their's so it seems more plausible. The Hardy Boyz were untrained, undersized, underaged backyard wrestler when the Italian Stallion came across them. He claims that their ability to do incredible spots was the catalyst to him bringing the WWF as jobbers. Although it becomes muddled after that. He took them, got them breaks and took all (or almost all their earnings) because, in his view, he took a huge risk by bringing them in. Now, the Hardy Boyz got a break, became huge stars and the WWF repaid Stallion by never using him or his charges? Somehow, I simply cannot believe everything that he says about this story, however it did make me question the Hardy Boyz's version as well.
The Rating: ***1/2
The Good
A classic underneath talent, whose legitimacy, influence and background made for some surprising and fascinating listening. Stallion's background as a decorated amateur wrestler with Olympic potential was nothing short of shocking. Furthermore, he took that skill set and became a bookie is just as shocking. The story of this tough guy who set a World record in spaghetti-eating transitioning to pro-wrestling is so bizarre it seems unlikely. Stallion did work with a lot of big stars and was able to have a distinct career, so he has the types of stories and perspectives that make for a worthwhile shoot interview. He was a good storyteller for the most part, so I think Michael Bochicchio's assumption that old-school fans of Jim Crockett Promotions are the ones who'll buy this shoot is an accurate one. The one story in here that stood out above all the others, in my opinion, was the one where Ronnie Garvin recruited him to get back money from Angelo Poffo from back in the ICW days. Garvin and Lanny Poffo are the only two talking and neither says much about the ICW, so any tidbit (such as this, true or not) is welcome.
The Bad
An amateur wrestling career that reached almost Olympic proportions? A personal recommendation letter from Vince McMahon Sr. to get into the business? A free ride from the Crocketts while breaking in? I do not have information to contradict this, but it seems almost ludicrous enough that I want to doubt it at face value. Many pro-wrestlers though, especially pre-wrestling school pro-wrestlers, have these kinds of unusual tales of getting into the business. Then comes Stallion's interaction with the Hardy Boyz. While I'm sure both of them did exactly tell the whole truth, his version is a rebuttal to their's so it seems more plausible. The Hardy Boyz were untrained, undersized, underaged backyard wrestler when the Italian Stallion came across them. He claims that their ability to do incredible spots was the catalyst to him bringing the WWF as jobbers. Although it becomes muddled after that. He took them, got them breaks and took all (or almost all their earnings) because, in his view, he took a huge risk by bringing them in. Now, the Hardy Boyz got a break, became huge stars and the WWF repaid Stallion by never using him or his charges? Somehow, I simply cannot believe everything that he says about this story, however it did make me question the Hardy Boyz's version as well.
The Rating: ***1/2
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Ron Garvin Shoot Interview [Highspots]
The Good
Ron Garvin can talk...and talk...and talk. If you like a shoot interview where the interviewer gets a few questions in and the next hour is story after story, opinion after opinion until it's over. Ronnie waxed nostalgic about breaking in, coming to the US and some of his successful runs in different areas. Most of the time was spent however with a philosophical lecture that included: success, happiness, society degrading and other weighty topics. It is interesting and not at all what I expected.
The Bad
Due to Ron Garvin's nonstop diatribes, his run with Terry and Jimmy, his time in Knoxville, his time with the ICW and even his run with the Crocketts and later the WWF are all cut short or left out. If you want that classic chronological interview, this ain't it. Garvin rambles and gives some pretty strong opinions about mainly different parts of our culture. I was disappointed by the lack of information on specific territories, angles and characters, but the trade off was not completely worthless.
The Rating: ****
The Good
Ron Garvin can talk...and talk...and talk. If you like a shoot interview where the interviewer gets a few questions in and the next hour is story after story, opinion after opinion until it's over. Ronnie waxed nostalgic about breaking in, coming to the US and some of his successful runs in different areas. Most of the time was spent however with a philosophical lecture that included: success, happiness, society degrading and other weighty topics. It is interesting and not at all what I expected.
The Bad
Due to Ron Garvin's nonstop diatribes, his run with Terry and Jimmy, his time in Knoxville, his time with the ICW and even his run with the Crocketts and later the WWF are all cut short or left out. If you want that classic chronological interview, this ain't it. Garvin rambles and gives some pretty strong opinions about mainly different parts of our culture. I was disappointed by the lack of information on specific territories, angles and characters, but the trade off was not completely worthless.
The Rating: ****
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Shocker Shoot Interview [Highspots]
The Good
I never realized this existed and never heard anything about it, so I practically did not believe it was Shocker of CMLL fame and expected two hours with Fred "Shockmaster" Ottman (who is actually very personable and enjoyable on shoot interviews). But this was very much Mr. 1000% Guapo himself in great form with Highspots. Shocker, who is originally from the States, speaks great English and seems like someone that should get more attention from interviewers. Although this was only 45 minutes, Shocker blows through and needs little direction. He tells his story, tells funny stories, has an infectiously hearty belly laugh and gives some great insight as well, what more could you want? This totally made me want to see him get a heel run opposite Rey Mysterio, although this was from seven years ago and the world is very different.
The Bad
Forty-five minutes is just too short to have a top-notch interview. Did Shocker need four hours to tell his life story? No, but he seems like someone who could fill it with hilarious tales of lucha libre. This was before his time with MLW and TNA, so he does not have those stories to share, but he can talk about New Japan, FMW and even Tokyo Pro. This is probably lacked the depth a hardcore lucha fan would want, but considering the limited amount of shoot interviews done in English by authentic luchadors, I can't complain much.
The Rating: ****
The Good
I never realized this existed and never heard anything about it, so I practically did not believe it was Shocker of CMLL fame and expected two hours with Fred "Shockmaster" Ottman (who is actually very personable and enjoyable on shoot interviews). But this was very much Mr. 1000% Guapo himself in great form with Highspots. Shocker, who is originally from the States, speaks great English and seems like someone that should get more attention from interviewers. Although this was only 45 minutes, Shocker blows through and needs little direction. He tells his story, tells funny stories, has an infectiously hearty belly laugh and gives some great insight as well, what more could you want? This totally made me want to see him get a heel run opposite Rey Mysterio, although this was from seven years ago and the world is very different.
The Bad
Forty-five minutes is just too short to have a top-notch interview. Did Shocker need four hours to tell his life story? No, but he seems like someone who could fill it with hilarious tales of lucha libre. This was before his time with MLW and TNA, so he does not have those stories to share, but he can talk about New Japan, FMW and even Tokyo Pro. This is probably lacked the depth a hardcore lucha fan would want, but considering the limited amount of shoot interviews done in English by authentic luchadors, I can't complain much.
The Rating: ****
Friday, April 9, 2010
Mark Lewin [Highspots Shoot Interview]
The Good
When Mark Lewin seemed to magically appear after relative obscurity, I was intrigued about this man who is one of pro-wrestling's most unique and well-traveled individuals. When I learned he was doing shoot interviews, I was overjoyed. This really delivers the goods as Highspots appears to have hired an interview who does solid research, builds a rapport with the interviewee, conducts a flowing interview and makes almost everyone else seem second- or third-rate. As great as the interviewer was, Mark Lewin was just the man I'd like to have in that hot seat. His amazing career was covered in sufficient detail (for a two-hour shoot), he touched on psychology, booking, character development and even heavier topics like substance abuse and personality flaws were not left untouched. Mark Lewin seems to be fairly open, but is certainly calculating in his responses. It is funny because he looks remarkably like Johnny Powers nowadays (although both had very different looks during their careers), but the gum-smacking Lewin seems so much more laid back, honest and humble than JP (whose career I feel Lewin's is superior to in most ways). This is one of those must-see/hear shoot interviews that happen every once and while.
The Bad
Two-hours was just simply not long enough. If undercarders from the Monday Night Wars can get four-hours, how can Mark Lewin not get more time! Actually, I suspect he'll be subject of several (guest booker, anyone?) and I cannot wait. Mark Lewin's thirty-year career was so unbelievable and the surface is only scratched here. His early career seems well covered, although a two-hour interview about just the "Golden Age" would work for me. The part about Australia was what I was most looking forward to as a highlight, but it was not delved into as deeply as it might have been. His notable runs in Florida, Detroit and Georgia are only briefly covered and others (San Antonio, New Zealand and San Francisco) are hardly mentioned if not left out completely. I don't want to beat up on this too much because what is there is gold, but I'd take a Ric Flair-like marathon shoot interview with Mark Lewin anytime!
The Rating: ****3/4
The Good
When Mark Lewin seemed to magically appear after relative obscurity, I was intrigued about this man who is one of pro-wrestling's most unique and well-traveled individuals. When I learned he was doing shoot interviews, I was overjoyed. This really delivers the goods as Highspots appears to have hired an interview who does solid research, builds a rapport with the interviewee, conducts a flowing interview and makes almost everyone else seem second- or third-rate. As great as the interviewer was, Mark Lewin was just the man I'd like to have in that hot seat. His amazing career was covered in sufficient detail (for a two-hour shoot), he touched on psychology, booking, character development and even heavier topics like substance abuse and personality flaws were not left untouched. Mark Lewin seems to be fairly open, but is certainly calculating in his responses. It is funny because he looks remarkably like Johnny Powers nowadays (although both had very different looks during their careers), but the gum-smacking Lewin seems so much more laid back, honest and humble than JP (whose career I feel Lewin's is superior to in most ways). This is one of those must-see/hear shoot interviews that happen every once and while.
The Bad
Two-hours was just simply not long enough. If undercarders from the Monday Night Wars can get four-hours, how can Mark Lewin not get more time! Actually, I suspect he'll be subject of several (guest booker, anyone?) and I cannot wait. Mark Lewin's thirty-year career was so unbelievable and the surface is only scratched here. His early career seems well covered, although a two-hour interview about just the "Golden Age" would work for me. The part about Australia was what I was most looking forward to as a highlight, but it was not delved into as deeply as it might have been. His notable runs in Florida, Detroit and Georgia are only briefly covered and others (San Antonio, New Zealand and San Francisco) are hardly mentioned if not left out completely. I don't want to beat up on this too much because what is there is gold, but I'd take a Ric Flair-like marathon shoot interview with Mark Lewin anytime!
The Rating: ****3/4
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Brickhouse Brown Shoot Interview
The Good
Drugs, rats and mud-slinging - what more could you want? Brickhouse Brown holds very little back (he eludes to a pending autobiography) and seemingly no one is immune. Some could surely celebrate his honesty and it makes for a shoot interview that you don't want to turn off. From Texas to Tennessee and Mid-South to Mid-Atlantic, Brickhouse Brown worked throughout the Southern territories and he has many experiences to share. This is unique shoot and one worth at least a single listen-through even for all its obvious issues.
The Bad
I saw this originally being compared to the Iron Shiek, Jamie Dundee and Billy Jack Haynes crowd of shoot interviews, which intrigued me. Brickhouse Brown is every bit as vulgur, arrogant and, at times, as wretchedly beat down by the business as those three. Obviously, there are holes in his reflections and lofty claims about his own ability and importance. While one could pick those apart, it seems that the over-the-top nature of this shoot interview is its selling point and without that (fabrications and all) it would be forgettable.
The Rating: ****
The Good
Drugs, rats and mud-slinging - what more could you want? Brickhouse Brown holds very little back (he eludes to a pending autobiography) and seemingly no one is immune. Some could surely celebrate his honesty and it makes for a shoot interview that you don't want to turn off. From Texas to Tennessee and Mid-South to Mid-Atlantic, Brickhouse Brown worked throughout the Southern territories and he has many experiences to share. This is unique shoot and one worth at least a single listen-through even for all its obvious issues.
The Bad
I saw this originally being compared to the Iron Shiek, Jamie Dundee and Billy Jack Haynes crowd of shoot interviews, which intrigued me. Brickhouse Brown is every bit as vulgur, arrogant and, at times, as wretchedly beat down by the business as those three. Obviously, there are holes in his reflections and lofty claims about his own ability and importance. While one could pick those apart, it seems that the over-the-top nature of this shoot interview is its selling point and without that (fabrications and all) it would be forgettable.
The Rating: ****
Monday, March 15, 2010
Debra Marshall Shoot Interview [Highspots]
The Good
Shoot interviews with some unlikely people can provide unique insight and perspective on the business. I've heard interviews with peripheral figures like the Von Erich's bodyguard, independent referees and various friends of pro-wrestlers that were more interesting than some of the sport's biggest names. I hoped this one with Debra would fall into that category. At times, it did. Her comments on Steve "Mongo" McMichael (whose never done a shoot that I know of), Jeff Jarrett (who sparingly does them) and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin (who selectively does them) were all interesting. She has led an unusual career and her viewpoint reflected that. This had its moments.
The Bad
Part of the reason I had to reduce Debra to a fringe personality was because her actual tenure in the sport was so brief, often so minor and undeveloped made her seem like such a character. She did not grow up a fan, she did not really express that she was a fan and she never seemed like she was into much more than getting on TV and being a star. Most of those comments could be untrue, but they probably are not. This lacked depth for the most part and it did not really make you want to see or hear any more Debra when it was over.
The Rating: ***
The Good
Shoot interviews with some unlikely people can provide unique insight and perspective on the business. I've heard interviews with peripheral figures like the Von Erich's bodyguard, independent referees and various friends of pro-wrestlers that were more interesting than some of the sport's biggest names. I hoped this one with Debra would fall into that category. At times, it did. Her comments on Steve "Mongo" McMichael (whose never done a shoot that I know of), Jeff Jarrett (who sparingly does them) and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin (who selectively does them) were all interesting. She has led an unusual career and her viewpoint reflected that. This had its moments.
The Bad
Part of the reason I had to reduce Debra to a fringe personality was because her actual tenure in the sport was so brief, often so minor and undeveloped made her seem like such a character. She did not grow up a fan, she did not really express that she was a fan and she never seemed like she was into much more than getting on TV and being a star. Most of those comments could be untrue, but they probably are not. This lacked depth for the most part and it did not really make you want to see or hear any more Debra when it was over.
The Rating: ***
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Larry Zbyszko Shoot Interview [Highspots]
The Good
Larry Zbyszko has always been a quality off-the-cuff interview and I've always thought his appearances on Wrestling Observer Live and elsewhere have been solid. He is funny, has good stories and is enjoyable to listen to talk. This 2-hour overview of his career contained all of those qualities, so if you've heard him before and liked him, you should enjoy this. Larry has a sharp memory, great insight and can get over through talking in the same way he does here.
The Bad
Larry Zbyszko has always been a quality off-the-cuff interview and I've always thought his appearances on Wrestling Observer Live and elsewhere have been solid. He is funny, has good stories and is enjoyable to listen to talk. This 2-hour overview of his career contained all of those qualities, so if you've heard him before and liked him, you should enjoy this. Larry has a sharp memory, great insight and can get over through talking in the same way he does here.
The Rating: ***1/2
The Good
Larry Zbyszko has always been a quality off-the-cuff interview and I've always thought his appearances on Wrestling Observer Live and elsewhere have been solid. He is funny, has good stories and is enjoyable to listen to talk. This 2-hour overview of his career contained all of those qualities, so if you've heard him before and liked him, you should enjoy this. Larry has a sharp memory, great insight and can get over through talking in the same way he does here.
The Bad
Larry Zbyszko has always been a quality off-the-cuff interview and I've always thought his appearances on Wrestling Observer Live and elsewhere have been solid. He is funny, has good stories and is enjoyable to listen to talk. This 2-hour overview of his career contained all of those qualities, so if you've heard him before and liked him, you should enjoy this. Larry has a sharp memory, great insight and can get over through talking in the same way he does here.
The Rating: ***1/2
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Jimmy Valiant Shoot Interview [Highspots]
The Good
Jimmy Valiant is generally a good interview if you like his persona, his little catchphrases and understand that he tends to kayfabe. He has led an interesting career spanning an amazing time frame and has been on top in some of the most noteworthy markets in the US. All of this makes great fodder for a great interview. I've heard him due interviews, usually radio shows, half a dozen times or so and he's never shocked me. This shocked me. He seemed to be out-of-character (as much as he probably is in real life) and was very honest about everything. He is upbeat about everything from his career to modern pro-wrestling to his life in general, which is always nice to hear from a retired pro-wrestler. While he's not the best talker (in contrast to his promos), Jimmy Valiant shows fascinating insight into how he created, developed and adapted his persona over the years. Whether it was "Handsome" Jimmy, the arrogant bleach-blond heel, or the "Boogie Woogie Man," the kissin', huggin', dancin' bearded babyface, Jimmy Valiant understood how to be different, how to stand out and ultimately - how to get over! If you clip those parts out, this is golden.
The Bad
I'll be honest, I've never cared for Jimmy Valiant. His in-ring work, his promos, his whole presentation, it's never been my thing. That aside, I respect the contributions he has made and have no desire to rip on him. He was/is a great talker, he had a lot of catchphrases and integrated them to the delight of fans (much like the Rock, whose promos I generally don't care for). That being said, when he's talking like a regular person, he seems to trip over his words and says "ya know" more than Dave Meltzer interviewing Lance Storm. Overall, Valiant's happy-go-lucky approach plays well, but it seems like there is another side to his experiences that might be going unsaid. If his book reads like this...well, hopefully it doesn't.
The Rating: ***3/4
The Good
Jimmy Valiant is generally a good interview if you like his persona, his little catchphrases and understand that he tends to kayfabe. He has led an interesting career spanning an amazing time frame and has been on top in some of the most noteworthy markets in the US. All of this makes great fodder for a great interview. I've heard him due interviews, usually radio shows, half a dozen times or so and he's never shocked me. This shocked me. He seemed to be out-of-character (as much as he probably is in real life) and was very honest about everything. He is upbeat about everything from his career to modern pro-wrestling to his life in general, which is always nice to hear from a retired pro-wrestler. While he's not the best talker (in contrast to his promos), Jimmy Valiant shows fascinating insight into how he created, developed and adapted his persona over the years. Whether it was "Handsome" Jimmy, the arrogant bleach-blond heel, or the "Boogie Woogie Man," the kissin', huggin', dancin' bearded babyface, Jimmy Valiant understood how to be different, how to stand out and ultimately - how to get over! If you clip those parts out, this is golden.
The Bad
I'll be honest, I've never cared for Jimmy Valiant. His in-ring work, his promos, his whole presentation, it's never been my thing. That aside, I respect the contributions he has made and have no desire to rip on him. He was/is a great talker, he had a lot of catchphrases and integrated them to the delight of fans (much like the Rock, whose promos I generally don't care for). That being said, when he's talking like a regular person, he seems to trip over his words and says "ya know" more than Dave Meltzer interviewing Lance Storm. Overall, Valiant's happy-go-lucky approach plays well, but it seems like there is another side to his experiences that might be going unsaid. If his book reads like this...well, hopefully it doesn't.
The Rating: ***3/4
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Lance Russell Shoot (Highspots)
Lance Russell, the classic voice of Memphis wrestling, seems like a can't-miss for a shoot interview. Here, he was what you'd expect, a great storyteller whose regional dialect and verbiage made for intriguing material. While his memory seemed sharp and he was honest, this interview lacked the depth I really wanted. Highspots' interviews tend to be good and this was, but I wished that it'd run a little longer and dig more than briefly go over Lance's highlights and most famous peers in the business. His role in the Gulas-Jarrett split seemed like the most notable omission, but it was hardly the only one. Let's hope this has a follow up because Lance Russell is a fantastic interview.
Rating: ****
Rating: ****
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