WCW Monday NITRO #1

The Mall of America Madness: A Report from the Front Lines

September 4th, 1995 - Bloomington, Minnesota's Mall of America played host to a raucous night of professional wrestling as World Championship Wrestling brought its brand of big-time action to the Twin Cities. As I stepped into the sold-out arena, the electricity was palpable, and it wasn't just from the throngs of screaming fans. The WCW crew had come to put on a show for the ages, and by my count, they succeeded in spades.

The Opening Act: Flyin' Brian Soars Past Liger

First up, the crowd got treated to an aerial assault courtesy of Flyin' Brian. The fan favorite took to the skies against Jushin Thunder Liger, a man known for his daredevil tendencies. These two high-fliers traded moves, with Brian's patented dives and Liger's innovative kicks leaving both men reeling. In the end, it was Brian who emerged victorious, pinning Liger in 6:52 to kick off the evening on a high note.

The Main Event (Sort Of): Sting vs. Ric Flair

Now, I know what you're thinking - No Contest? That's not exactly the most satisfying conclusion to a match, is it? And yet, there was something undeniably compelling about this bout between two of wrestling's all-time greats. The Nature Boy and Sting went at it tooth-and-nail, trading near-falls and suplexes in a contest that left both men battered and bruised. In the end, neither man could muster the strength to secure the win, resulting in a No Contest. While it might not have been the most conclusive outcome, this clash of titans was an absolute treat for anyone fortunate enough to be in attendance.

Hulkamania Runs Wild: Hogan Takes Down Big Bubba

The main event of the evening saw Hulk Hogan put his World Heavyweight Title on the line against Big Bubba Rogers. Now, I'm not one to get caught up in the hype surrounding Hogan - the guy's a legend, don't get me wrong - but there was something undeniable about this match that had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand. The Hulkster's trademark intensity and charisma were on full display as he battled Bubba tooth-and-nail. In the end, it was Hogan who emerged victorious, pinning the challenger in 7:08 to retain his title and send the fans home happy.

All in all, WCW's stop at the Mall of America was a resounding success - a night that will be remembered for years to come by those lucky enough to have been in attendance. And as I filed out of the arena with the rest of the press corps, it was clear: these wrestlers know how to put on a show.

For Zohash.com

Wright Thompson is a sports journalist and author who has written for The New Yorker, Sports Illustrated, and other top outlets. He's also a self-proclaimed wrestling enthusiast, which makes this report all the more special.

Card Details

Date: 04 Sep 1995
Promotion: World Championship Wrestling
Arena: Mall Of America
Type: TV-Show
Broadcast Type: Live
Broadcast Date: 04 Sep 1995

Matches

Flyin' Brian defeat Jushin Thunder Liger in a Singles Match
Match Time: 06:52
Sting(C) vs. Ric Flair in a WCW United States Title Match - No Contest
Hulk Hogan(C) defeat Big Bubba Rogers in a World Heavyweight Title Match
Match Time: 07:08