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In Funk's Corner: More history of the NWA World Championship in St. Louis

Posted: Mar 14th 2010 By: CMBurnham

Information credit Larry Matysik - >From the Golden Era, St. Louis Wrestling Record Book

My second NWA World Title defense in St. Louis came Friday April 11, 1969. My opponent was Black Jack Lanza managed by Bobby Heenan.

Previosly, On March 7th in Kiel Auditorium, Black Jack Lanza was disqualified in a handicap match against Terry Funk and Whipper Billy Watson when Lanza's manager, Bobby Heenan interfered in the match.

St. Louis had never had an active manager and Heenan's interference generated incredible heat. Black Jack Lanza, and Bobby Henan were "Hot" in St. Louis.

April 25, 1969 Black Jack Lanza with Bobby Heenan in his corner beat Pat O'Connor setting up the next match for the NWA World Championship.

April 11, 1969, Dory Funk, Jr. vs Black Jack Lanza with Pat O'Connor as special referee for the NWA World Championship best 2/3 falls, 1 hour time limit. Attendance 10,850 (Sell-Out)

Lanza was arguing with O' Connor when Funk scored with a drop kick and cradle for the pin in the third fall. Lanza and Heenan blamed O'Connor and jumped him after the match generating tons of heat on Heenan and Lanza.

Next NWA World Title Match in St. Louis Saturday June 14, 1969 Return Match Dory Funk, Jr. vs Black Jack Lanza with Bobby Heenan.

NWA World Title in St. Louis Stories are archived at - http://www.dory-funk.com