Ep 10. Mid-South: Bullets, Blades & Bar Fights
- December 6, 2022
- 44 min
Tales from the Territories is a documentary series that explores the wild world of regional professional wrestling. Each episode of the show focuses on a specific wrestling territory, showcasing interviews with wrestlers, promoters, and fans who were part of the scene during the territory's heyday.
Episode 10 of season 1 is titled "Mid-South: Bullets, Blades & Bar Fights." This episode takes a deep dive into the infamous Mid-South Wrestling territory, which was known for its gritty, violent style of wrestling that often spilled out of the ring and into the crowds.
Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to interviews with some of Mid-South's most legendary wrestlers, including Hacksaw Jim Duggan, Jim Ross, and The Rock 'n' Roll Express. These wrestling veterans share their memories of the wild and chaotic Mid-South scene, describing the intense rivalries, blood-soaked matches, and backstage brawls that defined the territory.
The episode also delves into the unique challenges and opportunities that Mid-South presented to up-and-coming wrestlers. Many wrestlers who got their start in Mid-South went on to become major stars in the wrestling world, thanks to the territory's reputation for producing tough and talented competitors.
But the risks of working in Mid-South were also very real. With a reputation for rowdy and often drunken crowds, many wrestlers found themselves in dangerous situations both in and out of the ring. The episode explores some of the more harrowing moments of Mid-South's history, from the infamous "Knife Incident" to the violent altercation between Ted DiBiase and "Dr. Death" Steve Williams.
Despite the chaos and danger that were part of the territory's DNA, however, Mid-South Wrestling is also remembered as a place of great camaraderie and passion. The wrestlers who competed in Mid-South often describe it as a tight-knit community, where everyone looked out for each other and shared a deep love of the craft.
Overall, "Mid-South: Bullets, Blades & Bar Fights" offers a fascinating glimpse into the wild and woolly world of one of wrestling's most notorious territories. From the backstage drama to the in-ring mayhem, this episode is a must-watch for any fan of pro wrestling history.