Retro Wrestling Re-View CCW Podcast Ep. 1 (June 15, 1985): The Birth of Continental Championship Wrestling

The Retro Wrestling Re-View expands into Continental Championship Wrestling as Gene Jackson and Robb Helt begin a chronological review/watchalong of one of the South’s most underrated wrestling territories.

Starting with the debut episode of Continental Championship Wrestling on June 15, 1985 following the transition from Southeastern Championship Wrestling, a time when the WWF expansion was accelerating, and territories were fighting to survive by evolving their presentation and identity.

Along the way, Gene and Robb explore:

* How Continental positioned itself as a major Southern territory

* Why Gordon Solie’s presence added instant credibility

* The transition from studio wrestling to an arena style television presentation

* The historical importance of Boutwell Auditorium in Birmingham

* The differences between Continental, Memphis, Mid-South, and national WWF programming

* What made Continental unique in the mid-80s wrestling ecosystem

This episode is both a show review and a historical starting point for the Continental series and the beginning of documenting whatever surviving footage exists.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★