Post by gentlemanjeff on Nov 27, 2013 0:09:04 GMT -5
11/03/85 – UPW Fury Hour (Taped: 10/7/85)
Showboat Sports Pavilion at the Showboat Hotel and Casino – Las Vegas, NV
THIS IS THE FURY HOUR
“Captain” Carl Florida and “The Living Legend” Bruno Sammartino returned to the airwaves with what Florida promised would be another electric edition of the Fury Hour! We'll see continued action in the UPW World Title Tournament with the man himself, “King Kong” Bruiser Brody taking on “Hollywood” John Tatum in the final match of the first round. Also, the Army of Darkness would meet their first true tests tonight as Kevin Sullivan meets Steve Casey and the mysterious Great Kabuki and Purple Haze go at it with the American Starship in the tag title tournament! Plus, the debut of the world famous Honky Tonk Saloon with special guest, “Superfly” Jimmy Snuka! Florida was nearly shaking with anticipation. The canned crowd heat was off the charts, though the listless audience and three-quarters empty arena somewhat detracted from the ambience.
A SURPRISE FOR BRUNO
But first! The Captain said that one of the great things about being part of Universal Pro Wrestling was the way the city of Las Vegas had welcomed them with open arms. Florida turned to Sammartino and said that UPW and Las Vegas had a very special surprise for Bruno tonight. With that, highly-paid ring announcer and voice of advertising icon Tony the Tiger, Thurl Ravenscroft, introduced the Mayor of Las Vegas--William H. Briare!
The silver-haired Briare arrived at the ring to polite applause. He was adorned in a shiny red suit and carried a velvet-cloaked box. The Captain and Bruno joined the mayor and the mustachioed Ravenscroft in the ring. Florida welcome Briare to the most exciting wrestling promotion in the world. Briare thanked Florida for bringing UPW to the Showboat Pavilion and Casino and said that Las Vegas was well on its way to being not just the gaming capital of the United States, but also the wrestling capital. But, Briare announced that he was here to honor the biggest wrestling superstar of the century, none other than “The Living Legend” Bruno Sammartino! Briare opened up the velvet-gloved box and pulled out a key to the city! Bruno thanked the mayor, but before he could formally accept the crowd’s attention turned to the entryway, where a robed Kevin Sullivan and his Army of Darkness had emerged!
The hooded Gamesmaster laughed maniacally as he and the Army--the stoic Purple Haze, the crazed Great Kabuki and the bizarre Luna Vachon and The Lock--slowly marched down the aisle. Kevin Sullivan stepped between the ropes and ripped the microphone from the hands of the ascot-wearing Ravenscroft. Sullivan pointed his finger in Briare’s face and told him that things were different now in Sin City, because Sin City belonged to the Army of Darkness, not a bunch of empty suits like the mayor and Florida, and certainly not a rundown has-been like Bruno Sammartino. Briare put up his hands like he didn’t want trouble (instead taking an interest in the always vexing flirtatiousness of Luna and The Lock), but Bruno stuffed his finger in Sullivan’s chest and told him that he became the Living Legend by squashing bugs like Sullivan, not backing down from them! Sullivan paused for a moment--and then shoved Bruno! Bruno stood there fuming as the crowd roared in support. Bruno ripped off his plaid sportcoat and charged the Army of Darkness--but Sullivan and his crew slid out of the ring while Florida, Ravenscroft and the mayor tried to calm the raging bull! Bruno may be fifty years old, but the Army of Darkness has to know they’re playing with fire when they rile up Bruno Sammartino!
MATCH #1
Honky Tonk Wayne vs. Dennis Stamp
UPW returned from a commercial break with Florida still pleading for a fuming Sammartino to calm down, this time in the announcer's booth. Sammartino said he'd had enough of Sullivan and his goons and that nobody pushes Sammartino and gets away with it--nobody. Florida agreed, saying they had gone too far. Meanwhile, the crowd was witnessing the UPW debut of Honky Tonk Wayne! Wayne wore full Elvis regalia and strutted down to the ring with the backing of a dozen high-kicking Las Vegas showgirls dressed in bright pink. Sammartino said Wayne looked ridiculous but Florida liked his showmanship. Regardless, Honk Tonk Wayne made short work of his opponent with a series of eye gouges, face rakes, a swinging neckbreaker, and a couple of Memphis-inspired dance moves in between.
Honky Tonk Wayne pinned D. Stamp with the Shake Rattle'n'Roll in 0:03:24.
Rating: * 1/4
The Captain also noted that Honky Tonk is famous for his big mouth and will be speaking with Jimmy Snuka at the Honky Tonk Saloon later tonight! Bruno thought they’d let enough idiots talk tonight.
NOTHING CAN STOP THE FUTURE
UPW’s David McLane was backstage with the imposing Blade Runners and their handlers, the comely “The Russian Assassin” Ninotchka and the boorish, megaphone-toting Rick Bassman. Bassman yelled at McLane that he couldn’t believe the American Starship had the audacity to interfere in their match last week on the Fury Hour, and that nothing would stand between the Blade Runners and the UPW Tag Team Titles, especially not a pair of pretty boys and their schoolgirl sidekick. Blade Runner Rock and Blade Runner Sting grunted and flexed their pecs in the background. Ninotchka punctuated the interview with a Russian exclamation, as seems to be her style.
MATCH #2
“Superfly” Jimmy Snuka & Tonga Kid vs. Tony D’amato & Frank Lang
The Captain said the fan favorite pairing of Pacific Islanders, Jimmy Snuka and his cousin and protege, the Tonga Kid, were teaming up for the first time in UPW. Sammartino noted that they would be competing in the UPW Tag Title Tournament at a later date, giving Snuka a chance to hold all the gold in Universal Pro Wrestling at once. Snuka wasn’t looking ahead though as he and the Kid put on an academy of fast tags and aerial maneuvers. Tonga ended it with a big flying headbutt the brought the crowd to life.
Jimmy Snuka and Tonga Kid defeated Tony D’amato and Frank Lang when Tonga Kid pinned T. D’amato after a flying headbutt in 0:03:12.
Rating: 3/4*
DARK TIDINGS FOR THE LIVING LEGEND
David McLane was again backstage, this time with The Gamesmaster, who was flanked as always by Luna and The Lock. Sullivan snarled at McLane, then let out his hideous booming laugh. Sullivan told Sammartino that he’s over the hill and the last of a dying breed. But Sullivan and his Army were the new breed! Sullivan promised Sammartino and the UPW a much, much bigger surprise tonight.
MATCH #3
“The Gamesmaster” Kevin Sullivan (w/ The Lock & Luna Vachon) vs. Steve Casey
Sullivan took his time coming down to the ring, barking at fans and ringside officials and staring daggers at Sammartino as he paced by the broadcast booth. Sammartino yelled at Sullivan to just keep moving. The Gamesmaster’s opponent was Steve Casey, the athletic younger brother of veteran Scott Casey. Steve was able to make a showing for himself with a few well-placed dropkicks and takedowns, but Sullivan’s methodical, brutal style proved too much for the youngster. Luna and The Lock continued their shrieking at ringside while Sullivan delivered a flying knee to the back of Casey, securing another victory for the Army of Darkness.
Kevin Sullivan pinned Steve Casey after a flying kneedrop in 0:04:33.
Rating: * 3/4
Sullivan and Sammartino exchanged another staredown at ringside afterwards while Luna and the Lock egged Florida and Sammartino on. Florida told Sullivan that he’d have security throw them out of the building if they didn’t go backstage.
MATCH #4
UPW World Title Tournament First Round
“King Kong” Bruiser Brody vs. “Hollywood” John Tatum (w/ Spanish Red)
The fans once again came to life as Bruiser Brody, one of the biggest names in professional wrestling, made his way to the ring. Brody had a reputation for dismantling his opponents with pure barbaric brawling and power, and you could tell that neither John Tatum nor his manager, the sultry Spanish Red, wanted Brody to get his hands on the golden locks of Tatum. Tatum evaded, duked, dodged and flat-out fled from the larger and meaner Brody, all the while with Spanish Red screaming at Brody in her native tongue. The duo’s distractions worked for a bit, allowing Tatum to try to wear down Brody with headlocks, stomps and knees off the ropes. Big Brody caught up with Tatum’s tactics, however, and tossed Hollywood around the ring with a series of slams. Tatum begged off as Spanish Red jumped on the apron with a steel chair in hand, intent on saving her man. Brody turned and saw Red, grabbing her by the hair and threatening her. Red dropped the chair, but the distraction allowed Tatum to ambush Brody with a running forearm to the back. Tatum bounced off the ropes and leapt for a crossbody, but Brody, unfazed, caught Tatum in mid-air. Tatum squirmed and wiggled, but he couldn’t stop Bruiser from driving him into the mat with a thunderous powerslam! That was all she wrote for Tatum.
[UPW World Title Tournament - First Round]:
Bruiser Brody pinned John Tatum after a running powerslam in 0:5:42.
Rating: * 1/4
Bruiser advances! The Captain noted that the semifinals for the UPW World Title Tournament were set, with Jimmy Snuka facing “Mad Dog” Buzz Sawyer and Bruiser Brody taking on "The Gamblin' Man" Blackjack Mulligan, with the winners meeting for the UPW World Championship at Blackjack Brawl! Sammartino said Snuka and Sawyer would be a battle of wits, but Brody and Mulligan would be a matter of who could hurt the other guy more.
HONKY TONKIN’ AT THE HONKY TONK SALOON
Next up was the debut of Honky Tonk Wayne’s very own talk show, “Honky Tonkin’ at the Honky Tonk Saloon!” Honky Tonk Wayne once again made a glamorous entrance, but this time his destination was a custom built saloon set that looked like a cross between a cheap country western bar and a tacky crooner’s lounge. Honky Tonk, again clad in leather and rhinestones like a bad Elvis imitation, welcomed everyone to the Saloon and said they may just be a bunch of yokel tourists and hillbillies too poor to play on the high rollers’ table, but Honky Tonk Wayne was the king of Las Vegas and the man who runs show business in this town. Honk played a few chords on his acoustic guitar and strutted around the Saloon as he continued to talk, claiming that Carl Florida begged him to come to UPW (“That’s not true,” remarked the Captain), so he made room in his schedule between appearances at the Bellagio and Mirage.
Honky Tonk set the guitar aside and said the man who had the honor of being his first guest at the Saloon was none other than “Superfly” Jimmy Snuka. Snuka emerged to a round of cheers, looking serious and unimpressed by Honky Tonk’s glitzy setup. Honky sarcastically welcomed Snuka and invited him to take a seat at the Saloon. Honky remarked how everyone’s talking about Snuka, but Honky said nobody comes to Vegas to see some glorified cabana boy from the islands. They come to be entertained by Honky Tonk Wayne! Honky Tonk said he knows Snuka doesn’t understand English or appreciate real music, but he wanted to make Snuka feel at home. Honky Tonk apologized for not having any coconuts or palm trees around, but he did have a very special gift for Snuka--a song from his own islands!
Snuka shook his head, looking more annoyed than angry at the whole spectacle, as Honky Tonk counted down the rhythm and started to play a mocking, gibberish version of a Hawaiian Luau song. Snuka rose from his seat and began to walk away, prompting Honk Tonk to stop playing and ask him where he’s going. Honky told him he’s a tourist in Vegas and he should enjoy the show from one of the world’s premier entertainers. Snuka glowered at Honky Tonk as Wayne asked “What’s a matter Superfly, you don’t like music?!” Snuka turned to leave when all of a sudden--WHAM! HONKY TONK SMASHED SNUKA WITH THE GUITAR! Snuka crumpled to the concrete in a heap as Honky Tonk gave him the boots. Suddenly Blackjack Mulligan came storming out, also stomping away at the Superfly! Sammartino called it a setup! Security officials flooded out of the back, pulling Blackjack and Honky Tonk off of Snuka! Florida was disgusted by the act, calling for the show to cut to a commercial.
The Fury Hour returned from the break with a dour Florida and Sammartino updating the audience on Snuka’s medical situation. Florida said Snuka was being taken to Sunrise Hospital to be treated for injuries suffered in the attack. Florida also noted that the Tonga Kid was found injured backstage, and Sammartino guessed that Blackjack Mulligan had something to do with it. Florida called it a disgusting but effective plan by Honky Tonk and Blackjack Mulligan, who appeared to be in cahoots. Sammartino said it called the whole World Title picture into question.
MATCH #5
UPW Tag Team Title Tournament First Round
American Starship (w/ “The All-American Girl” Tina Ferrari) vs. Army of Darkness (w/ The Lock & Luna Vachon)
Florida and Sammartino were noticeably glum after the devious attack on the Superfly. The American Starship and their manager, the “All-American Girl” Tina Ferrari, made their way out to the cheers of the fans and were a stark contrast to the dark and bizarre pairing of the Great Kabuki and Purple Haze. Starship Coyote and Starship Eagle were at a distinct disadvantage in the match, having to not only deal with their more experienced and very strange opponents, but also having to keep an eye on Luna and Lock outside the ring. Tina Ferrari can handle herself in a scrap, but Luna and The Lock kept moving in on her, knowing it would distract her charges. Kabuki’s karate chops and Haze’s sleeperholds controlled the match, but eventually the support of the fans and the raw power of American Starship swung the momentum back to Coyote and Eagle, who took turns drilling Kabuki and Haze with a series of forearms and clotheslines. Starship Eagle set up Kabuki for the Starship Bomb, but before he could execute Kevin Sullivan came marching down to the ring with an enormous man in tow, bedecked in studded leather and a hockey mask. Standing 6’4” and weighing over 330 pounds, Sullivan’s newest recruit stepped into the ring and slammed Eagle to the mat with a vicious choke slam! He grabbed Coyote for the same, but Tina Ferrari jumped on his back and pounded away! The masked man dropped Coyote and grasped for Ferrari, but she bailed while the getting was good!
[UPW Tag Title Tournament - First Round]:
American Starship (Starship Coyote and Starship Eagle) defeated Army of Darkness (Great Kabuki and Purple Haze) when Coyote defeated Kabuki by disqualification in 0:06:11.
Rating: DUD
[Lord Humongous interfered against Starship Eagle.]
[Lord Humongous interfered against Starship Coyote.]
Starship Coyote dragged his partner out of the ring and steadied him with Tina Ferrari’s help. Meanwhile, the Army of Darkness gathered in the ring as Kevin Sullivan laughed and called out seemingly everyone in attendance--Carl Florida, the American Starship and Bruno Sammartino. Florida said American Starship advances, but what mattered now was banishing the Army of Darkness from Universal Pro Wrestling and the FURY HOUR!
Match observations:
Things are getting out of control in Universal Pro Wrestling and the Fury Hour! Tune in next week to SportsChannel America to see more Carl Florida and more Fury Hour!
12/6/85 - BLACKJACK BRAWL - MGM GRAND ARENA - Las Vegas, NV
UPW WORLD TITLE - TBD vs. TBD
UPW TAG TEAM TITLES - TBD vs. TBD
Showboat Sports Pavilion at the Showboat Hotel and Casino – Las Vegas, NV
THIS IS THE FURY HOUR
“Captain” Carl Florida and “The Living Legend” Bruno Sammartino returned to the airwaves with what Florida promised would be another electric edition of the Fury Hour! We'll see continued action in the UPW World Title Tournament with the man himself, “King Kong” Bruiser Brody taking on “Hollywood” John Tatum in the final match of the first round. Also, the Army of Darkness would meet their first true tests tonight as Kevin Sullivan meets Steve Casey and the mysterious Great Kabuki and Purple Haze go at it with the American Starship in the tag title tournament! Plus, the debut of the world famous Honky Tonk Saloon with special guest, “Superfly” Jimmy Snuka! Florida was nearly shaking with anticipation. The canned crowd heat was off the charts, though the listless audience and three-quarters empty arena somewhat detracted from the ambience.
A SURPRISE FOR BRUNO
But first! The Captain said that one of the great things about being part of Universal Pro Wrestling was the way the city of Las Vegas had welcomed them with open arms. Florida turned to Sammartino and said that UPW and Las Vegas had a very special surprise for Bruno tonight. With that, highly-paid ring announcer and voice of advertising icon Tony the Tiger, Thurl Ravenscroft, introduced the Mayor of Las Vegas--William H. Briare!
The silver-haired Briare arrived at the ring to polite applause. He was adorned in a shiny red suit and carried a velvet-cloaked box. The Captain and Bruno joined the mayor and the mustachioed Ravenscroft in the ring. Florida welcome Briare to the most exciting wrestling promotion in the world. Briare thanked Florida for bringing UPW to the Showboat Pavilion and Casino and said that Las Vegas was well on its way to being not just the gaming capital of the United States, but also the wrestling capital. But, Briare announced that he was here to honor the biggest wrestling superstar of the century, none other than “The Living Legend” Bruno Sammartino! Briare opened up the velvet-gloved box and pulled out a key to the city! Bruno thanked the mayor, but before he could formally accept the crowd’s attention turned to the entryway, where a robed Kevin Sullivan and his Army of Darkness had emerged!
The hooded Gamesmaster laughed maniacally as he and the Army--the stoic Purple Haze, the crazed Great Kabuki and the bizarre Luna Vachon and The Lock--slowly marched down the aisle. Kevin Sullivan stepped between the ropes and ripped the microphone from the hands of the ascot-wearing Ravenscroft. Sullivan pointed his finger in Briare’s face and told him that things were different now in Sin City, because Sin City belonged to the Army of Darkness, not a bunch of empty suits like the mayor and Florida, and certainly not a rundown has-been like Bruno Sammartino. Briare put up his hands like he didn’t want trouble (instead taking an interest in the always vexing flirtatiousness of Luna and The Lock), but Bruno stuffed his finger in Sullivan’s chest and told him that he became the Living Legend by squashing bugs like Sullivan, not backing down from them! Sullivan paused for a moment--and then shoved Bruno! Bruno stood there fuming as the crowd roared in support. Bruno ripped off his plaid sportcoat and charged the Army of Darkness--but Sullivan and his crew slid out of the ring while Florida, Ravenscroft and the mayor tried to calm the raging bull! Bruno may be fifty years old, but the Army of Darkness has to know they’re playing with fire when they rile up Bruno Sammartino!
MATCH #1
Honky Tonk Wayne vs. Dennis Stamp
UPW returned from a commercial break with Florida still pleading for a fuming Sammartino to calm down, this time in the announcer's booth. Sammartino said he'd had enough of Sullivan and his goons and that nobody pushes Sammartino and gets away with it--nobody. Florida agreed, saying they had gone too far. Meanwhile, the crowd was witnessing the UPW debut of Honky Tonk Wayne! Wayne wore full Elvis regalia and strutted down to the ring with the backing of a dozen high-kicking Las Vegas showgirls dressed in bright pink. Sammartino said Wayne looked ridiculous but Florida liked his showmanship. Regardless, Honk Tonk Wayne made short work of his opponent with a series of eye gouges, face rakes, a swinging neckbreaker, and a couple of Memphis-inspired dance moves in between.
Honky Tonk Wayne pinned D. Stamp with the Shake Rattle'n'Roll in 0:03:24.
Rating: * 1/4
The Captain also noted that Honky Tonk is famous for his big mouth and will be speaking with Jimmy Snuka at the Honky Tonk Saloon later tonight! Bruno thought they’d let enough idiots talk tonight.
NOTHING CAN STOP THE FUTURE
UPW’s David McLane was backstage with the imposing Blade Runners and their handlers, the comely “The Russian Assassin” Ninotchka and the boorish, megaphone-toting Rick Bassman. Bassman yelled at McLane that he couldn’t believe the American Starship had the audacity to interfere in their match last week on the Fury Hour, and that nothing would stand between the Blade Runners and the UPW Tag Team Titles, especially not a pair of pretty boys and their schoolgirl sidekick. Blade Runner Rock and Blade Runner Sting grunted and flexed their pecs in the background. Ninotchka punctuated the interview with a Russian exclamation, as seems to be her style.
MATCH #2
“Superfly” Jimmy Snuka & Tonga Kid vs. Tony D’amato & Frank Lang
The Captain said the fan favorite pairing of Pacific Islanders, Jimmy Snuka and his cousin and protege, the Tonga Kid, were teaming up for the first time in UPW. Sammartino noted that they would be competing in the UPW Tag Title Tournament at a later date, giving Snuka a chance to hold all the gold in Universal Pro Wrestling at once. Snuka wasn’t looking ahead though as he and the Kid put on an academy of fast tags and aerial maneuvers. Tonga ended it with a big flying headbutt the brought the crowd to life.
Jimmy Snuka and Tonga Kid defeated Tony D’amato and Frank Lang when Tonga Kid pinned T. D’amato after a flying headbutt in 0:03:12.
Rating: 3/4*
DARK TIDINGS FOR THE LIVING LEGEND
David McLane was again backstage, this time with The Gamesmaster, who was flanked as always by Luna and The Lock. Sullivan snarled at McLane, then let out his hideous booming laugh. Sullivan told Sammartino that he’s over the hill and the last of a dying breed. But Sullivan and his Army were the new breed! Sullivan promised Sammartino and the UPW a much, much bigger surprise tonight.
MATCH #3
“The Gamesmaster” Kevin Sullivan (w/ The Lock & Luna Vachon) vs. Steve Casey
Sullivan took his time coming down to the ring, barking at fans and ringside officials and staring daggers at Sammartino as he paced by the broadcast booth. Sammartino yelled at Sullivan to just keep moving. The Gamesmaster’s opponent was Steve Casey, the athletic younger brother of veteran Scott Casey. Steve was able to make a showing for himself with a few well-placed dropkicks and takedowns, but Sullivan’s methodical, brutal style proved too much for the youngster. Luna and The Lock continued their shrieking at ringside while Sullivan delivered a flying knee to the back of Casey, securing another victory for the Army of Darkness.
Kevin Sullivan pinned Steve Casey after a flying kneedrop in 0:04:33.
Rating: * 3/4
Sullivan and Sammartino exchanged another staredown at ringside afterwards while Luna and the Lock egged Florida and Sammartino on. Florida told Sullivan that he’d have security throw them out of the building if they didn’t go backstage.
MATCH #4
UPW World Title Tournament First Round
“King Kong” Bruiser Brody vs. “Hollywood” John Tatum (w/ Spanish Red)
The fans once again came to life as Bruiser Brody, one of the biggest names in professional wrestling, made his way to the ring. Brody had a reputation for dismantling his opponents with pure barbaric brawling and power, and you could tell that neither John Tatum nor his manager, the sultry Spanish Red, wanted Brody to get his hands on the golden locks of Tatum. Tatum evaded, duked, dodged and flat-out fled from the larger and meaner Brody, all the while with Spanish Red screaming at Brody in her native tongue. The duo’s distractions worked for a bit, allowing Tatum to try to wear down Brody with headlocks, stomps and knees off the ropes. Big Brody caught up with Tatum’s tactics, however, and tossed Hollywood around the ring with a series of slams. Tatum begged off as Spanish Red jumped on the apron with a steel chair in hand, intent on saving her man. Brody turned and saw Red, grabbing her by the hair and threatening her. Red dropped the chair, but the distraction allowed Tatum to ambush Brody with a running forearm to the back. Tatum bounced off the ropes and leapt for a crossbody, but Brody, unfazed, caught Tatum in mid-air. Tatum squirmed and wiggled, but he couldn’t stop Bruiser from driving him into the mat with a thunderous powerslam! That was all she wrote for Tatum.
[UPW World Title Tournament - First Round]:
Bruiser Brody pinned John Tatum after a running powerslam in 0:5:42.
Rating: * 1/4
Bruiser advances! The Captain noted that the semifinals for the UPW World Title Tournament were set, with Jimmy Snuka facing “Mad Dog” Buzz Sawyer and Bruiser Brody taking on "The Gamblin' Man" Blackjack Mulligan, with the winners meeting for the UPW World Championship at Blackjack Brawl! Sammartino said Snuka and Sawyer would be a battle of wits, but Brody and Mulligan would be a matter of who could hurt the other guy more.
HONKY TONKIN’ AT THE HONKY TONK SALOON
Next up was the debut of Honky Tonk Wayne’s very own talk show, “Honky Tonkin’ at the Honky Tonk Saloon!” Honky Tonk Wayne once again made a glamorous entrance, but this time his destination was a custom built saloon set that looked like a cross between a cheap country western bar and a tacky crooner’s lounge. Honky Tonk, again clad in leather and rhinestones like a bad Elvis imitation, welcomed everyone to the Saloon and said they may just be a bunch of yokel tourists and hillbillies too poor to play on the high rollers’ table, but Honky Tonk Wayne was the king of Las Vegas and the man who runs show business in this town. Honk played a few chords on his acoustic guitar and strutted around the Saloon as he continued to talk, claiming that Carl Florida begged him to come to UPW (“That’s not true,” remarked the Captain), so he made room in his schedule between appearances at the Bellagio and Mirage.
Honky Tonk set the guitar aside and said the man who had the honor of being his first guest at the Saloon was none other than “Superfly” Jimmy Snuka. Snuka emerged to a round of cheers, looking serious and unimpressed by Honky Tonk’s glitzy setup. Honky sarcastically welcomed Snuka and invited him to take a seat at the Saloon. Honky remarked how everyone’s talking about Snuka, but Honky said nobody comes to Vegas to see some glorified cabana boy from the islands. They come to be entertained by Honky Tonk Wayne! Honky Tonk said he knows Snuka doesn’t understand English or appreciate real music, but he wanted to make Snuka feel at home. Honky Tonk apologized for not having any coconuts or palm trees around, but he did have a very special gift for Snuka--a song from his own islands!
Snuka shook his head, looking more annoyed than angry at the whole spectacle, as Honky Tonk counted down the rhythm and started to play a mocking, gibberish version of a Hawaiian Luau song. Snuka rose from his seat and began to walk away, prompting Honk Tonk to stop playing and ask him where he’s going. Honky told him he’s a tourist in Vegas and he should enjoy the show from one of the world’s premier entertainers. Snuka glowered at Honky Tonk as Wayne asked “What’s a matter Superfly, you don’t like music?!” Snuka turned to leave when all of a sudden--WHAM! HONKY TONK SMASHED SNUKA WITH THE GUITAR! Snuka crumpled to the concrete in a heap as Honky Tonk gave him the boots. Suddenly Blackjack Mulligan came storming out, also stomping away at the Superfly! Sammartino called it a setup! Security officials flooded out of the back, pulling Blackjack and Honky Tonk off of Snuka! Florida was disgusted by the act, calling for the show to cut to a commercial.
The Fury Hour returned from the break with a dour Florida and Sammartino updating the audience on Snuka’s medical situation. Florida said Snuka was being taken to Sunrise Hospital to be treated for injuries suffered in the attack. Florida also noted that the Tonga Kid was found injured backstage, and Sammartino guessed that Blackjack Mulligan had something to do with it. Florida called it a disgusting but effective plan by Honky Tonk and Blackjack Mulligan, who appeared to be in cahoots. Sammartino said it called the whole World Title picture into question.
MATCH #5
UPW Tag Team Title Tournament First Round
American Starship (w/ “The All-American Girl” Tina Ferrari) vs. Army of Darkness (w/ The Lock & Luna Vachon)
Florida and Sammartino were noticeably glum after the devious attack on the Superfly. The American Starship and their manager, the “All-American Girl” Tina Ferrari, made their way out to the cheers of the fans and were a stark contrast to the dark and bizarre pairing of the Great Kabuki and Purple Haze. Starship Coyote and Starship Eagle were at a distinct disadvantage in the match, having to not only deal with their more experienced and very strange opponents, but also having to keep an eye on Luna and Lock outside the ring. Tina Ferrari can handle herself in a scrap, but Luna and The Lock kept moving in on her, knowing it would distract her charges. Kabuki’s karate chops and Haze’s sleeperholds controlled the match, but eventually the support of the fans and the raw power of American Starship swung the momentum back to Coyote and Eagle, who took turns drilling Kabuki and Haze with a series of forearms and clotheslines. Starship Eagle set up Kabuki for the Starship Bomb, but before he could execute Kevin Sullivan came marching down to the ring with an enormous man in tow, bedecked in studded leather and a hockey mask. Standing 6’4” and weighing over 330 pounds, Sullivan’s newest recruit stepped into the ring and slammed Eagle to the mat with a vicious choke slam! He grabbed Coyote for the same, but Tina Ferrari jumped on his back and pounded away! The masked man dropped Coyote and grasped for Ferrari, but she bailed while the getting was good!
[UPW Tag Title Tournament - First Round]:
American Starship (Starship Coyote and Starship Eagle) defeated Army of Darkness (Great Kabuki and Purple Haze) when Coyote defeated Kabuki by disqualification in 0:06:11.
Rating: DUD
[Lord Humongous interfered against Starship Eagle.]
[Lord Humongous interfered against Starship Coyote.]
Starship Coyote dragged his partner out of the ring and steadied him with Tina Ferrari’s help. Meanwhile, the Army of Darkness gathered in the ring as Kevin Sullivan laughed and called out seemingly everyone in attendance--Carl Florida, the American Starship and Bruno Sammartino. Florida said American Starship advances, but what mattered now was banishing the Army of Darkness from Universal Pro Wrestling and the FURY HOUR!
Match observations:
Things are getting out of control in Universal Pro Wrestling and the Fury Hour! Tune in next week to SportsChannel America to see more Carl Florida and more Fury Hour!
12/6/85 - BLACKJACK BRAWL - MGM GRAND ARENA - Las Vegas, NV
UPW WORLD TITLE - TBD vs. TBD
UPW TAG TEAM TITLES - TBD vs. TBD