National Wrestling Alliance summary

Foundation and Early Days

In National Wrestling Alliance, Tim Hornbaker takes us back to the early 20th century, a time when professional wrestling was a legitimate sport. He delves into the early careers of wrestling pioneers such as Ed Lewis, Billy Sandow, and Toots Mondt, who were instrumental in transforming wrestling into a scripted, entertainment-oriented business. These individuals, along with a few other prominent figures, formed the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) in 1948, aiming to control wrestling territories across the United States.

The NWA operated as a governing body, overseeing individual wrestling territories and ensuring that none encroached on the others' turf. The territories were run by regional promoters, who were both members and shareholders of the NWA. This structure allowed the NWA to maintain a stranglehold on the wrestling industry, dictating everything from title-holders to match outcomes.

Rise of Television and Business Practices

Hornbaker then explores the impact of television on wrestling. The rise of television brought wrestling into American homes, significantly increasing its fan base. Promoters, especially those in the NWA, recognized the potential of this new medium and began forming alliances with local television stations, ensuring that their wrestling shows were broadcasted to a wider audience.

The author also delves into the business practices of the NWA, which were often predatory and monopolistic. The organization used its power to stifle competition, threatening to withhold top wrestling stars from any territory that dared to break away from the NWA. This cutthroat approach allowed the NWA to maintain its dominance, but it also led to numerous legal battles and controversies.

Challenges and Decline

Despite its early success, the NWA faced several challenges in the 1980s. One of the most significant was the emergence of Vince McMahon's World Wrestling Federation (WWF), which took a more national approach to wrestling. McMahon broke away from the NWA and began aggressively expanding his promotion, poaching top talents from NWA territories and securing national television deals.

The NWA struggled to respond to McMahon's aggressive tactics and the changing wrestling landscape. Internal conflicts among its member territories, declining viewership, and the loss of key talent further weakened the organization. By the early 1990s, the NWA had lost its position as the dominant force in professional wrestling.

Legacy and Impact

In the final sections of National Wrestling Alliance, Hornbaker reflects on the NWA's legacy and its impact on the wrestling industry. Despite its eventual decline, the NWA played a pivotal role in shaping professional wrestling into the entertainment spectacle it is today. Its territorial system, business strategies, and even some of its championship titles continue to influence the industry.

Overall, National Wrestling Alliance provides a comprehensive look at the rise and fall of the NWA, shedding light on the business side of professional wrestling. It offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between sports, entertainment, and commerce, making it a compelling read for wrestling enthusiasts and business historians alike.