In this podcast, JR and Conrad cover Clash of the Champions XX from 1992, featuring Andre the Giant's final appearance, Ricky Steamboat vs. Steve Austin, Brian Pillman turning heel, and Cactus Jack challenging Ron Simmons. The episode also includes tag team matches with names like Sting, Jake Roberts, and Vader, along with insights into wrestling business dynamics, missed opportunities in WCW, and Mick Foley's success due to his mic skills.
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Quick takeaways
Steve Austin wins TV title but lacks crowd reactions, showcasing potential for singles success.
Tension hinted between Jesse Ventura and Bruno Sammartino during a match segment.
Technical issues mar Arn Anderson and Bobby Eaton match, affecting viewing experience.
Bill Watts retires Light Heavyweight title, favoring bigger wrestlers over cruiserweights for draw power.
Deep dives
Steve Austin and Rick Steamboat: Clash of TV Titles
Steve Austin and Ricky Steamboat faced off, where Steamboat pinned Austin to win the TV title. Despite solid work, the match lacked crowd reactions and got 3.25 stars. The high stakes and action-packed bout showcased the potential for Austin's next level in singles competition.
Bruno Sammartino References and Commentary
Jesse Ventura made a joke about Bruno Sammartino during a match. Jim Ross ignored it, possibly indicating an underlying tension between Ventura and Sammartino. While the reason for the joke remains unknown, the lack of acknowledgment suggests a strained relationship.
Tag Team Legacy Highlighted and Emily Anderson and Bobby Eaton Match
The segment showcased various iconic tag teams like the Road Warriors and the Freebirds. Following this, an Arn Anderson and Bobby Eaton match against Valentine and Slater had some camera shot issues that affected the viewing experience. The match ended with Eaton pinning Valentine, but technical difficulties took away from the overall impact.
Light Heavyweight Title Retired After Bill Watts Strips Brad Armstrong
Bill Watts stripped Brad Armstrong of the Light Heavyweight title due to an injury, announcing a tournament that never materialized. The decision to retire the belt reflected Watts' belief that the bigger athletic wrestlers draw more money than the cruiserweights, leading to the removal of the light heavyweight division.
Brian Pillman Turns Heel on Brad Armstrong
Brian Pillman's heel turn on Brad Armstrong marked the start of a new persona, criticizing Armstrong and initiating a rivalry. Pillman's alignment change added depth to his character, tapping into his personal struggles and underdog status, setting the stage for his evolution as a compelling heel.
Ron Simmons Defends WCW Title Against Cactus Jack
In this match, Ron Simmons successfully defends his WCW Title against Cactus Jack. While the pre-match video packages portrayed Simmons as a world champion, Jack's injuries hindered the match's quality. Despite Simmons winning with a power slam, the match lacked chemistry and was marred by Jack's physical condition. The clash in styles and Jack's undisclosed injuries contributed to a disappointing outcome, showcasing the challenges of performing at a high level in wrestling.
Eight-Man Tag Match: Sting and Team Face Off Against the Villains
In the elimination eight-man tag match, Sting, the Steiners, and Co-Lough face Rick Roode, Vader, and the Super Invader. The match featured intense moments, with Sting pinning Vader swiftly and the climax resulting in Sting triumphing over Roode. Despite some botched sequences, the match received positive reviews and stood out as the best match on the card, highlighting the dynamic interactions and high-energy performances of the wrestlers involved.
On this episode of Grilling JR, JR and Conrad discuss the 20th Clash of the Champions from September 1992! It's the final appearance of Andre the Giant, Ricky Steamboat challenges Steve Austin for the TV title, Brian Pillman turns heel, Cactus Jack challenges for the WCW Title against Ron Simmons, Barbarian & Butch Reed take on Dustin Rhodes & Barry Windham, and in an elimination tag match, Jake Roberts teams up with Vader, Rick Rude & Super Invader against Sting, Nikita Koloff & the Steiners!