2018 Pro Wrestling thread

He was incredible in the early 90s in WCW and Japan. I remember the Apter mags talking about him doing moonsaults, and being stunned when he did on TV. A lot of big guys like Braun that we take for granted now wouldn't be if not for Vader.

RIP

 

And from his "son," Frankie.

 

I wonder if he’ll be buried with Mick Foley’s ear.

 

Did Vader ever have an extended run in the WWE? I know he's best known for his Japan and WCW work, but can't remember if he ever crossed over for any significant amount of time or not.

 

About two years from 1996-98, just into the start of the Attitude Era, plus a few more cameos.

 

RIP.

 

Yeah, and in one of the cameos, he slipped off the apron and fell on his ass.

His run in WWE was underwhelming, partially because of the Clique and partially because he had injuries. He said his back was so bad, he couldn't powerbomb anyone.

 

And then there's this...

 

The 80s WWF era is much different than the current WWE. Name a few stars from the 80s that you believe would really fit in in today’s era, and vice versa. Which current gimmick/wrestler would fit in the 80s era. Interested to hear some of the answers.

 

Braun would have been a great challenger for Bruno and Backlund, with Blassie as a manager. Would also have done well in the Earthquake role with Hart as manager against Hogan.

Cesaro would have been a great challenger for Backlund. Would also have done well later as an evil foreigner.

Sheamus would have been a good Hogan challenger.

Rollins would be in a Steamboat role.

Good Brothers would have fit in fine on the tag scene. They'd be fun against the Rockers.

Cena and Brock would fit in in any era.

Taker bridges both eras and is timeless.

Samoa Joe would be a Wild Samoan.

Elias would be Honky Tonk Man

Bryan and Balor would be jobbers. Maybe at Jim Powers level.

Miz would be a manager, or a host like Brother Love.

Any of the women, except for Nia, would be fodder for Moolah.

At the other end, Savage would be fine, but not with the abusive gimmick. Liz would have more of an attitude.

Hennig might be in the Ziggler role.

Heenan wouldn't be managing, but he'd still be great as an announcer. Okerlund and Fink would be fine.

Bossman wouldn't have the gimmick, but he'd still fit in well in the ring.

DiBiase would fit in well. Same gimmick.

Roberts would be fun with Bray.

Bulldogs would kick ass in the tag ranks, and Dynamite would be a fixture on 205 Live.

Rude would be interesting. He wouldn't be poking fun of fat people, though.

You know, this was a fun way to kill a half hour of my life.

 

I expect Tom Phillips to say "He hit him in the wee wee!" on Smackdown this week.