NWA Starrcade 1988 - "True Gritt"

Wrestling Report: A Thrilling Night of Action at the Norfolk Scope

December 26th, 1988, saw the World Championship Wrestling (WCW) bring its brand of high-flying action to the Norfolk Scope in Virginia, drawing a packed crowd of 10,000 fans for their live Pay-Per-View event. The evening was filled with thrilling matches, memorable moments, and more than a few surprises.

The night kicked off with a bang as The Varsity Club (Kevin Sullivan and Steve Williams) defeated The Fantastics to retain the WCW United States Tag Team Titles. This fast-paced opener set the tone for the rest of the card, showcasing the athleticism and technical prowess that has come to define professional wrestling.

Next up were The Midnight Express, comprised of Bobby Eaton and Stan Lane, who took on their namesakes from the original lineup (Dennis Condrey and Randy Rose). This tag team match was an absolute clinic, with both teams trading holds and moves in a thrilling 17-minute contest. In the end, it was the new Midnight Express that emerged victorious.

The Russian Assassins made quick work of Ivan Koloff and The Junkyard Dog, disposing of their opponents in just 6 minutes and 47 seconds. This swift victory only served to whet the appetite for what was to come.

Rick Steiner then took on Mike Rotunda in a battle for the NWA World Television Title. Steiner's relentless pressure eventually paid off, as he secured the win and retained his championship gold.

The main event of the evening was the highly anticipated showdown between Barry Windham and Bam Bam Bigelow for the NWA United States Heavyweight Title. Windham emerged victorious in a hard-hitting contest that saw both men give it their all. The match time? A respectable 16 minutes and 17 seconds.

Dusty Rhodes and Sting teamed up to take on the reigning NWA World Tag Team Champions, The Road Warriors. This high-stakes match was a true clash of titans, with each team giving everything they had. In the end, it was the unlikely duo of Rhodes and Sting that emerged victorious, sending shockwaves through the wrestling world.

And then, there was the main event: Ric Flair vs. Lex Luger in a NWA World Heavyweight Title match that could change hands via disqualification. This grueling contest saw both men push each other to the limit, with neither willing to yield. In the end, it was Flair who emerged victorious, retaining his championship gold in a thrilling 30-minute and 59-second affair.

As the dust settled on this unforgettable night of wrestling, one thing was clear: World Championship Wrestling had once again delivered an event for the ages. For those fortunate enough to be in attendance at the Norfolk Scope, it will surely go down as a night to remember. And for those watching from home, the replay will undoubtedly be a must-see.

Zohash.com Rating: 9.5/10

Recommendation: If you're looking for an event that showcases the best of professional wrestling, look no further than this December 26th show from World Championship Wrestling. With a mix of thrilling matches and unforgettable moments, it's an absolute must-see for fans of the sport.

Card Details

• Date: 26 Dec 1988
• Promotion: World Championship Wrestling
• Arena: Norfolk Scope
• Attendance: 10000
• Type: Pay Per View
• Broadcast Type: Live
• Broadcast Date: 26 Dec 1988

Matches

1. The Varsity Club (Kevin Sullivan and Steve Williams)(C) defeat The Fantastics in a WCW United States Tag Team Title Match

2. The Midnight Express (Bobby Eaton and Stan Lane) defeat The Original Midnight Express (Dennis Condrey and Randy Rose) in a Tag Team Match
   Match Time: 17:46

3. The Russian Assassins (Russian Assassin #1 and Russian Assassin #2) defeat Ivan Koloff and The Junkyard Dog in a Tag Team Match
   Match Time: 06:47

4. Rick Steiner(C) defeat Mike Rotunda in a NWA World Television Title Match

5. Barry Windham(C) defeat Bam Bam Bigelow in a NWA United States Heavyweight Title Match
   Match Time: 16:17

6. Dusty Rhodes and Sting(C) defeat The Road Warriors in a NWA World Tag Team Title Match
   Match Time: 11:20

7. Ric Flair(C) defeat Lex Luger in a NWA World Heavyweight Title Title Can Change Hands Via Disqualification Match
   Match Time: 30:59