Old School Sundays: Midnight Express v Road Warriors
Two of the greatest tag teams to ever step foot in a squared circle, ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Mal Occhio proudly welcomes you to this week’s Old School Sunday match-up: The Midnight Express of “Sweet” Stan Lane and “Beautiful” Bobby Eaton (managed by the always-terrific Jim Cornette - fans of TNA should know that this man is a true legend in our industry) versus The Road Warriors of Animal and (the late) Hawk, managed by Paul Ellering.
A bit of a twist in this one, however, with the Midnight Express playing the babyface role in this 1998 match-up, with the Legion of Doom trying (despite never losing popularity) to resume their heel role in the NWA. The duo had recently turned on Sting, and the would-be switch would prove unsuccessful. Flat-out: People loved the Road Warriors by then, and really, always did. At least until they went to the WWF. Once it was revealed that they couldn’t sell worth crap, their goose was cooked. But before then? Oh, the magic. To this day, Mr. Mal will never forget my first time seeing them charge the ring in person and clean house. Not even Hulk Hogan got a reaction like that, even back then. But back to our match.
A few things to watch: Look for Bobby Eaton to get color early, as — even as a face — his psychology was second to none. He does more crawling on his knees outside the ring to sell his injury (buoyed by great, impassioned commentary by Jim Ross in full glory) than most wrestlers do today — especially in TNA — in ten matches. Take notes, gang. Listen to the crowd, too. A buzz heard throughout the match (for the NWA World Tag Team Titles, the Midnight Express being the defending champs) that, again, is rarely heard today. No pre-programmed catchphrases to shout, no hand-signals or gestures to immitate. The marquee said PRO WRESTLING in this one, and by God, that’s what they give ya. Let’s get to the ring! It’s bell time! - Mr. Mal
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