 |
| WHO'S WHO: LOU THESZ |
| REAL NAME: Aloysis Thesz |
| MATCH RECORDS, MENTIONS, OR APPEARANCES IN GEORGIA
APRIL 9, 1937 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA LOEWS GRAND THEATRE (Frank Speer Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Frank Brown APRIL 16, 1937 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA LOEWS GRAND THEATRE (Frank Speer Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Bill Lee APRIL 23, 1937 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA LOEWS GRAND THEATRE (Frank Speer Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Bill Lee by disqualification APRIL 30, 1937 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA LOEWS GRAND THEATRE (Frank Speer Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Otto Kuss MAY 5, 1937 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA PONCE de LEON BALL PARK (Frank Speer Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Cowboy Luttrall by disqualification JUNE 9, 1937 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA PONCE de LEON BALL PARK (Frank Speer Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Pete Nenoff defeated Tiny Ruff > Dorv Roche defeated Dan OConnor Notes: Tiny Ruff replaced Dan OConnor in the match with Pete Nenoff, as OConnor substituted for Lou Thesz in the match with Dorv Roche. Thesz was unable to make the trip to Atlanta because he was home with his wife, who was ill, in St. Louis. FEBRUARY 23, 1938 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA WARREN ARENA (Frank Speer Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Bill Bartush by countout APRIL 20, 1938 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA WARREN ARENA (Frank Speer Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Dorv Roche by disqualification MAY 4, 1938 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA WARREN ARENA (Frank Speer Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz and Dorv Roche wrestled to a draw MAY 11, 1938 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA WARREN ARENA (Frank Speer Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Henry Piers MAY 18, 1938 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA WARREN ARENA (Frank Speer Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Henry Piers JULY 6, 1938 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA WARREN ARENA (L.C. Warren Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Henry Piers JULY 13, 1938 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA WARREN ARENA (L.C. Warren Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Babe Zaharias AUGUST 17, 1938 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA WARREN ARENA (L.C. Warren Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Joe Cox defeated Lou Thesz AUGUST 24, 1938 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA WARREN ARENA (L.C. Warren Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz versus Joe Cox ruled a no contest Notes: Man Mountain Leavitt was the special referee for the match between Lou Thesz and Joe Cox. AUGUST 31, 1938 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA WARREN ARENA (L.C. Warren Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz versus Rudy Strongberg Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. MAY 23, 1939 (TUESDAY) ATLANTA, GA PONCE de LEON BALL PARK (L.C. Warren Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Dorv Roche Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Everett Marshall in St. Louis, MO, on February 23, 1939. This version was the one recognized by the National Boxing Association as the National Wrestling Association. OCTOBER 3, 1939 (TUESDAY) ATLANTA, GA WARREN ARENA (L.C. Warren Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Chief Chewacki by disqualification APRIL 9, 1940 (TUESDAY) ATLANTA, GA LOEWS GRAND THEATRE (Bill Hartman and Thad Holt Promoters / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz and Hans Schnabel wrestled to a draw at 90:00 OCTOBER 31, 1940 (THURSDAY) ATLANTA, GA (Al Rauer Promoter) > Lou Thesz defeated Ted Christy Notes: It is unclear as to what venue was the site of this card. APRIL 2, 1941 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Abe Simon Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Ray Villmer (2-0) APRIL 16, 1941 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Abe Simon Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz and Dorv Roche wrestled to a draw at 90:00 MAY 7, 1941 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Abe Simon Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Jack Kennedy OCTOBER 29, 1941 (WEDNESDAY) ATLANTA, GA WARREN ARENA (Abe Simon Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz versus Rudy Strongberg Notes: This card was cancelled on October 28, 1941, when it was learned that Lou Thesz had been injured in an automobile accident. JULY 9, 1945 (MONDAY) AUGUSTA, GA AUGUSTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Promoter Unknown) > Lou Thesz versus Fritz Schnabel Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. JULY 25, 1947 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* and Ray Villmer wrestled to a draw Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Billy Watson in St. Louis, MO, on April 25, 1947. This version was the one recognized by the National Boxing Association as the National Wrestling Association. AUGUST 29, 1947 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Ray Villmer Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Billy Watson in St. Louis, MO, on April 25, 1947. This version was the one recognized by the National Boxing Association as the National Wrestling Association. SEPTEMBER 26, 1947 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Jim Coffield Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Billy Watson in St. Louis, MO, on April 25, 1947. This version was the one recognized by the National Boxing Association as the National Wrestling Association. OCTOBER 31, 1947 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Bill Longson by disqualification Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Billy Watson in St. Louis, MO, on April 25, 1947. This version was the one recognized by the National Boxing Association as the National Wrestling Association. JANUARY 23, 1948 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Bibber McCoy Notes: Bibber McCoy substituted for Thor Morgan in the match with Lou Thesz. JULY 9, 1948 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Babe Zaharias JULY 23, 1948 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Sky Hi Lee by disqualification Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Bill Longson in Indianapolis, IN, on July 20, 1948. This version was the one recognized by the National Boxing Association as the National Wrestling Association. SEPTEMBER 10, 1948 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Ray Villmer Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Bill Longson in Indianapolis, IN, on July 20, 1948. This version was the one recognized by the National Boxing Association as the National Wrestling Association. NOVEMBER 19, 1948 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Don McIntyre Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Bill Longson in Indianapolis, IN, on July 20, 1948. This version was the one recognized by the National Boxing Association as the National Wrestling Association. NOVEMBER 26, 1948 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Don McIntyre at 24:00 Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Bill Longson in Indianapolis, IN, on July 20, 1948. This version was the one recognized by the National Boxing Association as the National Wrestling Association. OCTOBER 7, 1949 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Don McIntyre Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Bill Longson in Indianapolis, IN, on July 20, 1948. This version was the one recognized by the National Boxing Association as the National Wrestling Association. NOVEMBER 25, 1949 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Hans Kaempfer Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Bill Longson in Indianapolis, IN, on July 20, 1948. This version was the one recognized by the National Boxing Association as the National Wrestling Association. This was the original date that had been set for a title unification match between Thesz and the National Wrestling Alliance World Heavyweight Champion Orville Brown, to take place in St. Louis, MO. However, Brown was injured in an automobile accident on November 1, 1949, and the match had to be cancelled. NOVEMBER 27, 1949 (SUNDAY) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz was now recognized as the holder of the NWA World Heavyweight Title for the National Wrestling Alliance, thus ending the lineage of the National Wrestling Association as recognized by the National Boxing Association. JUNE 23, 1950 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that NWA World Heavyweight Champion Lou Thesz would defend his title in Atlanta on July 7, 1950. JULY 7, 1950 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Bibber McCoy Notes: Howard Brown was credited as being a referee on this card. Although the National Wrestling Alliance was formed in 1948, and Paul Jones was reportedly at the first member meeting, Atlanta had continued to recognize the NWA World Heavyweight Title as observed by the National Wrestling Association, as it had been doing since 1930. Alliance champion Orville Brown never made an appearance in the area during his reign, and this was the first by Lou Thesz since he was awarded the Alliance version on November 27, 1949, after Brown was forced to vacate the title due to injuries suffered in an automobile accident on November 1, 1949. SEPTEMBER 15, 1950 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* versus Babe Zaharias Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he was awarded the title on November 27, 1949. NOVEMBER 9, 1950 (THURSDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Jack Kennedy Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he was awarded the title on November 27, 1949. APRIL 19, 1951 (THURSDAY) COLUMBUS, GA COLUMBUS SPORTS ARENA (Fred Ward Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* and Don McIntyre wrestled to a draw Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he was awarded the title on November 27, 1949. APRIL 20, 1951 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Danny Plechas Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he was awarded the title on November 27, 1949. JUNE 13, 1952 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Al Massey OCTOBER 1, 1954 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Paul Jones was negotiating with NWA World Heavyweight Champion Lou Thesz for some dates in Atlanta. JULY 8, 1955 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Jerry Graham Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he was awarded the title on November 27, 1949. Thesz was managed by Strangler Lewis. NOVEMBER 23, 1956 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Paul Jones was negotiating to have NWA World Heavyweight Champion Lou Thesz defend his title in Atlanta. APRIL 26, 1957 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Red McIntyre at 25:00 Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Billy Watson on November 9, 1956, in St. Louis, MO. NOVEMBER 8, 1957 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > World Heavyweight Title Match: Edouard Carpentier* defeated Mike Paidousis Notes: The NWA no longer recognized Carpentier as it champion at this time, and only promoters who disputed the decision by the NWA to recognize Lou Thesz continued to bill Carpentier as World Heavyweight Champion. Apparently Paul Jones was one of them. Following the match between Carpentier and Mike Paidousis, Freddie Blassie entered the ring and issued a challenge for Carpentiers title, to which he accepted and said he would sign a contract to do so. NOVEMBER 15, 1957 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > World Heavyweight Title Match: Edouard Carpentier* defeated Freddie Blassie Notes: It is believed that the NWA no longer recognized Carpentier as it champion at this time, and only promoters who disputed the decision by the NWA to recognize Lou Thesz continued to bill Carpentier as World Heavyweight Champion. Apparently Paul Jones was one of them. It should be noted that Dick Hutton defeated Thesz on November 14, 1957, in Toronto, ON, to become the NWA World Heavyweight Champion. OCTOBER 17, 1958 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > World Heavyweight Title Match: Paul Anderson* defeated Don Lee Notes: Paul Anderson was billed as World Heavyweight Champion upon arrival, with no ties whatsoever to the National Wrestling Alliance. Although it is purely speculation, it is entirely possible Paul Jones began recognizing his own champion because the NWA had not sent its champion to Georgia since the debacle in 1957 between Lou Thesz and Edouard Carpentier. AUGUST 24, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was also announced that Don McIntyre was negotiating with Lou Thesz for future dates. MARCH 9, 1963 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling on the card on March 29, 1963. MARCH 29, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* and Tarzan Tyler wrestled to a draw Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. APRIL 27, 1963 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling in Atlanta soon. JUNE 7, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA PONCE de LEON BALL PARK [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Tarzan Tyler Notes: Tarzan Tyler substituted for Dick the Bruiser in the match with Lou Thesz. The Bruisers plane was reportedly grounded in Indianapolis, IN, due to bad weather. Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. JUNE 14, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Don McIntyre was negotiating for a match between Lou Thesz and Dick the Bruiser. JUNE 21, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling on the card on June 28, 1963. JUNE 28, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* and Ray Gunkel wrestled to a draw Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. JULY 19, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling Dick the Bruiser on the card on July 26, 1963. JULY 26, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Dick the Bruiser by disqualification Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. AUGUST 9, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Tarzan Tyler Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. AUGUST 23, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match (No DQ / No TL / No CO): Lou Thesz* defeated Dick the Bruiser Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. SEPTEMBER 20, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling in Atlanta soon. OCTOBER 18, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling on the card on November 1, 1963. OCTOBER 28, 1963 (MONDAY) AUGUSTA, GA WILLIAM BELL AUDITORIUM (Steve Manderson Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Tarzan Tyler Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. NOVEMBER 1, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated the Mighty Hercules Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. JANUARY 31, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling in Atlanta soon. MARCH 13, 1964 (FRIDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling in Atlanta soon. APRIL 3, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling in Atlanta soon. JUNE 12, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Les Wolfe Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling in Atlanta soon. AUGUST 14, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling in Atlanta in September 1964. SEPTEMBER 4, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling on the card on September 11, 1964. SEPTEMBER 11, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Don Fargo Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. SEPTEMBER 12, 1964 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* versus Joe Scarpa Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. SEPTEMBER 14, 1964 (MONDAY) AUGUSTA, GA WILLIAM BELL AUDITORIUM (Steve Manderson Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Don Fargo by disqualification Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. SEPTEMBER 15, 1964 (TUESDAY) MACON, GA MACON CITY AUDITORIUM (Fred Ward Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Krusher Karlson Notes: It was reported that 2,640 were in attendance for this card. Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. NOVEMBER 6, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling on the card on November 13, 1964. NOVEMBER 13, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* and Ray Gunkel wrestled to a draw at 90:00 Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. NOVEMBER 27, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling in Atlanta soon. DECEMBER 18, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match (No DQ / No TL): Lou Thesz* defeated Ray Gunkel Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. DECEMBER 19, 1964 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* versus Freddie Blassie Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. JANUARY 22, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling in Atlanta soon. MAY 18, 1965 (TUESDAY) MACON, GA MACON CITY AUDITORIUM (Fred Ward Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Choo-Choo Lynn Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. MAY 20, 1965 (THURSDAY) ALBANY, GA (Fred Ward Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz versus Pedro Zapata Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. It is unclear as to what venue was the site of this card. JULY 2, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Paul Jones was negotiating with Lou Thesz for some future dates. JULY 23, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling in Atlanta soon. SEPTEMBER 17, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling on the card on September 24, 1965. SEPTEMBER 20, 1965 (MONDAY) AUGUSTA, GA WILLIAM BELL AUDITORIUM (Steve Manderson Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz versus Nick Kozak Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. SEPTEMBER 21, 1965 (TUESDAY) MACON, GA MACON CITY AUDITORIUM (Fred Ward Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Freddie Blassie by disqualification Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. SEPTEMBER 22, 1965 (WEDNESDAY) COLUMBUS, GA COLUMBUS MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Fred Ward Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz versus Chief Little Eagle Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. SEPTEMBER 24, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* defeated Buddy Fuller Notes: Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. SEPTEMBER 25, 1965 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA FRANKLIN DRIVE ARENA (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Lou Thesz* versus Nick Kozak Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. Lou Thesz had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Buddy Rogers on January 24, 1963, in Toronto, ON. SEPTEMBER 2, 1966 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: The program for this card features an article regarding Lou Thesz making a comeback to the ring. JANUARY 6, 1967 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling on the card on January 13, 1967. JANUARY 13, 1967 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Gorilla Marconi JANUARY 27, 1967 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Krusher Kowalski JANUARY 28, 1967 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA WAII STUDIOS (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Butcher Vachon Notes: This was for the Live Atlanta Wrestling television program hosted by Ed Capral. FEBRUARY 18, 1967 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA WAII STUDIOS (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Bill Dromo Notes: This was for the Live Atlanta Wrestling television program hosted by Ed Capral. FEBRUARY 24, 1967 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Bill Dromo Notes: Leo Garibaldi was credited as being a referee on this card. NWA President Sam Muchnick was in attendance for this card. MARCH 18, 1967 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: The program for this card featured a photo of Lou Thesz with actress Yvonne DeCarlo, most noted for her role in televisions the Munsters sitcom. Paul Jones reported in the program that NWA President Sam Muchnick had ordered Gene Kiniski to defend the NWA World Heavyweight Title in Atlanta against Thesz, and that Kiniski was trying to dodge the match, claiming Muchnick and Jones were trying desperately to get the title off of him. Kiniski had been the reigning champion since he defeated Thesz on January 7, 1966, in St. Louis, MO. MARCH 24, 1967 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was reported in the program for this card that Paul Jones had finally gotten Gene Kiniski to sign a contract to defend the NWA World Heavyweight Title against Lou Thesz, and the bout was scheduled for April 14, 1967. It claimed that the signing took place in Chicago, IL, during a meeting of the NWA Board of Governors, including Sam Muchnick, Jules Strongbow, Frank Tunney, Jim Crockett, Ed McLemore, Gust Karras, Pedro Martinez, and Jim Barnett. Supposedly, Kiniski was reprimanded by the Board as a response to his allegations of collusion between Muchnick and Jones to make the match happen. Kiniski reportedly apologized, but also insisted that an impartial referee from a different promotion be assigned to officiate the bout, and Jones agreed in order to seal the deal. Kiniski had been the reigning champion since he defeated Thesz on January 7, 1966, in St. Louis, MO. APRIL 14, 1967 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Gene Kiniski* and Lou Thesz wrestled to a draw Notes: Angelo Martinelli was the special referee for the match between Gene Kiniski and Lou Thesz. Kiniski had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Thesz on January 7, 1966, in St. Louis, MO. The program for this card featured a collage of historical photos, including Thesz, Steve Casey, Gus Sonnenberg, Jim Browning, Frank Gotch, Strangler Lewis, Joe Stecher, Stanislaus Zbyszko, Danno OMahoney, Bronko Nagurski, and Jim Londos, as well as the kayfabed version of the history of the NWA World Heavyweight Title. There was also an additional collage of photos featuring Thesz with various celebrities, including Bob Hope, Corinne Calvet, Alan Ladd, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, and Kirk Douglas and his children, which of course, included Michael Douglas. MAY 12, 1967 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: In the program for this card, Paul Jones reported that he was attempting to sign a rematch between Lou Thesz and Gene Kiniski for the latters NWA World Heavyweight Title based on the match held in Atlanta on April 14, 1967, stating that Thesz had agreed to waive his purse if the match took place. Kiniski had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Thesz on January 7, 1966, in St. Louis, MO. JUNE 2, 1967 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA PAUL JONES SPORTS ARENA [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Gene Kiniski would be wrestling Lou Thesz on the card on June 9, 1967. JUNE 9, 1967 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match (No TL): Gene Kiniski* defeated Lou Thesz Notes: Paul Jones was the special referee for the match between Gene Kiniski and Lou Thesz. Kiniski had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Thesz on January 7, 1966, in St. Louis, MO. JULY 28, 1967 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: The program for this card mentioned that Lou Thesz would be a guest on the Today Show on August 3, 1967, to be interviewed by guest hosts Hugh Downs and Joe Garagiola. AUGUST 4, 1967 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz, Alberto & Ramon Torres defeated El Mongol, Stan & Butcher Vachon by disqualification Notes: Jack Crawford managed El Mongol. NOVEMBER 3, 1967 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz & Mr. Wrestling defeated Oki Yama & El Mongol by disqualification Notes: Enrique & Alberto Torres managed Lou Thesz & Mr. Wrestling. Jack Crawford managed El Mongol & Oki Yama. The program for this card featured a photo of Butcher Vachon and a masked man, with text from Vachon stating that this should prove he and Yama are not the same person. The mask the man wore in the photo was different than the one fans were accustomed to seeing on Yama. NOVEMBER 4, 1967 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA WAII STUDIOS (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Ox Baker Notes: This was for the Live Atlanta Wrestling television program hosted by Ed Capral. Jack Crawford managed Oki Yama. Lou Thesz joined Capral to announce that the masked man in the picture from the November 3, 1967, program was known as the Destroyer, and should not serve as proof that Butcher Vachon was not Oki Yama. NOVEMBER 10, 1967 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA PAUL JONES SPORTS ARENA [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Oki Yama Notes: Jack Crawford managed Oki Yama. Enrique & Alberto Torres managed Lou Thesz. MARCH 22, 1968 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling on the card on March 29, 1968. MARCH 23, 1968 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA WQXI STUDIOS (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz & Enrique Torres defeated the Gauchos Notes: This was for the Live Atlanta Wrestling television program hosted by Ed Capral. MARCH 29, 1968 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz, Enrique & Alberto Torres defeated Jack Crawford, Hans Schmidt & El Mongol Notes: Gentleman X (1) managed El Mongol. JUNE 29, 1968 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be the referee for the Georgia Tag Team Title Tournament on July 5, 1968. JULY 5, 1968 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Georgia Tag Team Title One-Night Tournament: Tarzan Tyler & El Mongol defeated Silento Rodriguez & the Professional; Bob Armstrong & Mario Galento defeated the Rising Suns; Oki Shikina & Seiji Sakaguchi defeated Johnny Walker & Bill Dromo; Alberto & Ramon Torres defeated Tank Morgan & Guillotine Gordon; Tyler & Mongol defeated Armstrong & Galento; Torres Brothers defeated Shikina & Sakaguchi; Torres Brothers defeated Tyler & Mongol to win title Notes: Lou Thesz was the special referee for the tournament. Jack Crawford managed Tarzan Tyler & El Mongol. The tournament for the Georgia Tag Team Title was to determine inaugural champions. Although there had been various versions of the title existing in the 1950s, we have found nothing referencing a direct link to this version. DECEMBER 6, 1968 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that Lou Thesz would be wrestling on the card on December 13, 1968. DECEMBER 13, 1968 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Johnny Valentine and Lou Thesz wrestled to a draw MAY 16, 1969 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > El Mongol defeated Paul DeMarco Notes: Lou Thesz was the special referee for both the match between El Mongol and Paul DeMarco and the match with the Professional and El Mongol. The program for this card featured an article titled How I Became Champ, reportedly written by Dory Funk, Jr., an Open Letter to a New Champion from an Ex Champion, reportedly written by Thesz, and another short item reportedly written by Eddie Graham, titled Dory Will Be a Great Champion. MAY 17, 1969 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA WQXI STUDIOS (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz & the Professional defeated the Assassins by disqualification Notes: This was taped for the Atlanta TV Wrestling television program hosted by Ed Capral. MAY 21, 1969 (WEDNESDAY) COLUMBUS, GA COLUMBUS MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Fred Ward Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz & El Mongol defeated the Assassins by disqualification MAY 30, 1969 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA PAUL JONES SPORTS ARENA [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: It was announced that a match was scheduled to take place on June 6, 1969, between Lou Thesz and Paul DeMarco, but that DeMarco was trying to back out of the match. Paul Jones claimed he had scheduled this match because DeMarco wanted a shot at the NWA World Heavyweight Title held by Dory Funk, Jr., and that DeMarco had initially agreed to Jones promise that should he defeat Thesz, he would do all he could to sign the match between DeMarco and Funk, Jr. Jones felt that DeMarco was having second thoughts as to whether he could defeat Thesz. MAY 31, 1969 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA WQXI STUDIOS (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz & the Professional defeated Assassin #1 & Professional #2 Notes: This was taped for the Atlanta TV Wrestling television program hosted by Ed Capral. During the match between Lou Thesz & the Professional and Assassin #1 & Professional #2, Thesz removed the Professional #2s mask to identify him as Paul DeMarco. JUNE 4, 1969 (WEDNESDAY) COLUMBUS, GA COLUMBUS MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Fred Ward Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz & El Mongol defeated the Assassins JUNE 6, 1969 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Paul DeMarco by countout Notes: The winner of the match between Lou Thesz and Paul DeMarco was to earn a shot at the NWA World Heavyweight Champion on a future card. JUNE 7, 1969 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA WQXI STUDIOS (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz & Leo Garibaldi defeated Tom Bradley & Assassin #1 Notes: This was taped for the Atlanta TV Wrestling television program hosted by Ed Capral. JUNE 14, 1969 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA WQXI STUDIOS (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lou Thesz defeated Skandor Akbar Notes: This was taped for the Atlanta TV Wrestling television program hosted by Ed Capral. JUNE 20, 1969 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > NWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Dory Funk, Jr.,* defeated Lou Thesz Notes: Dory Funk, Jr., had been the reigning NWA World Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Gene Kiniski on February 11, 1969, in Tampa, FL. |
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