Retro Wednesday: Were You A Fan Of GWF?

In 1991, the pro wrestling world was introduced to the Global Wrestling Federation. Cross-promoting with the USWA, it received quick success by showcasing names such as Eric Embry and Skandor Akbar and carrying the tradition of hosting at the Dallas Sportatorium. It also gave those who were not very successful in WWE or WCW some popularity, such as Barry Horowitz, Wild Bill Irwin, Mike Davis and Black Bart.

Moreover, GWF showcased legendary names such as Bad News (Brown), Butch Reed, Buddy Landell and the One Man Gang, making them top stars although experiencing a midcard level of success in other promotions (with the exception of Reed in Mid-South) . Moreover, names like Kerry Von Erich (who temporarily revived the GWF upon his appearance), the Freebirds, Cactus Jack, Stan Lane, Al Perez, Chris Adams and Eddie Gilbert had an opportunity to be top stars for the promotion, while already having experience in other promotions. It also turned Del Wilkes from the Trooper in AWA, to a gimmick that he stayed with for the rest of his career – The Patriot.

GWF may have been most acclaimed for giving relative no-names a launchpad to eventually become very well known names. In fact, GWF can lay claim for giving opportunity to those who became world champions and WWE Hall of Famers. Names such as John Hawk (JBL), Jerry Lynn, and Booker T (along with his brother, Stevie Ray, as the Ebony Experience), made their mark in the company and it caused other promotions to be on alert. Each became a world champion; Booker T and JBL even feuded against each other.

Lastly, let's not forget about the wrestlers who were under a different gimmick than what they became famous from. That list includes Moadib (Ahmed Johnson), Scotty Anthony (Raven), Lightning Kid (X-Pac), the Soultaker (Godfather), and the Handsome Stranger (Buff Bagwell).

Special recognition to "Hollywood" John Tatum, who I believe is one of the best and funniest heels of the early 90s.

Although it only lasted three years, GWF created a haven for memorable names, future stars, and provided ESPN a good hour of professional wrestling.

Were you a fan of GWF? Sound off below.

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