When Eddie Graham took control of pro wrestling in the state of Florida from Cowboy Luttrel, one of the most significant developments in wrestling history was being put in place. Graham would go on to make Florida a premiere breeding ground for talent and future bookers alike. His mastery and genius are universally recognized.
Join Jim Cornette and Kevin Sullivan, a product of Eddie Graham’s genius and a booker that learned at his feet. Kevin worked in Florida as a top heel and then as a booker. But more importantly to this discussion, Kevin was close to Eddie the man. Eddie confided in Kevin, sometimes before even his own son Mike, placing a strain on Kevin and Mike’s friendship.
We will take you back into the glory days of Florida, from the birth of The “American Dream,” to the Jack Brisco/Dory Funk Jr feud. This is your ticket inside Eddie Graham’s legendary territory during its fiery NWA reign. Hop in with Corny and Kevin and head Back to the Territories!
00:00 The Legacy of Championship Wrestling from Florida
01:42 Introduction by Jim Cornette
02:21 Kevin Sullivan on Eddie Graham's Influence
03:25 Eddie Graham's Attention to Detail
06:35 Eddie Graham's Booking Philosophy
13:03 Eddie Graham's Civic Engagement
16:08 Eddie Graham's Relationship with His Son Mike
30:12 Eddie Graham's Early Career and Influence
50:59 Promoter Strategies and Risks
52:19 The Blade Job Incident
54:04 Television Production in Wrestling
55:54 Gordon Soley's Influence
58:34 The Florida Wrestling Scene
01:07:12 The Briscoe and Funk Rivalry
01:16:07 Dusty Rhodes' Rise to Stardom
01:22:26 Eddie Graham's Booking Genius
01:24:35 Wrestling's Big Money Era
01:33:10 Unification Matches and Cross-Promotions
01:40:24 The Blood Stopped: A Wrestling Anecdote
01:40:40 Jimmy's Early Wrestling Days
01:41:20 Taking the Book: A New Role
01:41:44 The 80s Wrestling Scene
01:43:25 The Power of TBS and Tommy Rich
01:45:06 The Great American Bash 86
01:45:57 Eddie Graham's Controversial Death
01:52:35 The Devil Angle and MTV Influence
02:02:53 Wrestling in the Bahamas: A Dangerous Game
02:13:25 The Legacy of Eddie Graham
02:18:34 Reflections on Wrestling Legends
02:24:17 The Future of Florida Wrestling
