 |
| WHO'S WHO: RAY GUNKEL |
| REAL NAME: Ray Gunkel |
| PAGE 2 |
| Copyright © Georgia Wrestling History, Inc.
All rights reserved. |
| MATCH RECORDS, MENTIONS, OR APPEARANCES IN GEORGIA JANUARY 1, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Texas Death Match: Ray Gunkel defeated Mike Paidousis JANUARY 8, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Southern Heavyweight Title Match: Ray Gunkel* defeated Freddie Blassie Notes: Ray Gunkel had been the reigning Southern Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Freddie Blassie on December 25, 1959, in Atlanta. FEBRUARY 2, 1960 (TUESDAY) MACON, GA MACON CITY AUDITORIUM (Fred Ward Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Tokyo Joe at 18:00 FEBRUARY 5, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Death Match: Freddie Blassie defeated Ray Gunkel Notes: Paul Jones was the special referee for the match between Freddie Blassie and Ray Gunkel. It was billed that there was to be an ambulance at the door, prepared to take away the loser of the match between Blassie and Gunkel, and Blassie had vowed that if he did not put Gunkel in the hospital, he would leave Georgia. MARCH 1, 1960 (TUESDAY) MACON, GA MACON CITY AUDITORIUM (Fred Ward Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Southern Heavyweight Title Match: Ray Gunkel* defeated Freddie Blassie Notes: Ray Gunkel had been the reigning Southern Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Freddie Blassie on December 25, 1959, in Atlanta. MARCH 5, 1960 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Freddie Blassie MARCH 7, 1960 (MONDAY) AUGUSTA, GA WILLIAM BELL AUDITORIUM (Robert McCoy Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Freddie Blassie versus Ray Gunkel Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. MARCH 18, 1960 (FRIDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel versus Jack Terry > Ray Gunkel, Bill Dromo & Haystacks Calhoun versus Freddie Blassie, Jack Terry & Tokyo Joe Notes: No documented results for this card have been found. MARCH 25, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel, Bill Dromo & Chief Little Eagle defeated Jack Terry, Krusher Larson & Tokyo Joe APRIL 1, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > International Tag Team Title Match: Ray & Dickie Gunkel* versus Serge Malkoff & Bad Boy Hines Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. It is unclear to us at this time how Ray & Dickie Gunkel came to be recognized as International Tag Team Champions. The last reference we have shows Ray Gunkel & Don McIntyre defending the title against Freddie Blassie & Skull Murphy on March 27, 1959, in Atlanta. APRIL 2, 1960 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel versus Jack Terry Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. APRIL 8, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > International Tag Team Title Match: Ray & Dickie Gunkel* defeated Freddie Blassie & Eric Pederson Notes: Ray & Dickie Gunkel had been billed as International Tag Team Champions since April 1, 1960. MAY 27, 1960 (FRIDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Mixed Tag Team Match: Ray Gunkel, Bill Dromo & Rita Cortez versus Freddie Blassie, Mickey Blassie & the Lady Angel Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. JUNE 3, 1960 (FRIDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel versus Mickey Blassie Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. JUNE 10, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Southern Heavyweight Title Match: Ray Gunkel defeated Freddie Blassie* to win title Notes: Freddie Blassie had been the reigning Southern Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Dickie Gunkel on April 15, 1960, in Atlanta. JUNE 17, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Southern Heavyweight Title Match: the Mighty Yankee defeated Ray Gunkel* to win title Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. Ray Gunkel had been the reigning Southern Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Freddie Blassie on June 10, 1960, in Atlanta. JULY 29, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel, Leo Garibaldi & Bill Dromo defeated Tony Neopolitan, Corsica Jean & Mr. X (2) AUGUST 12, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Gorgeous George Notes: Gorgeous George was escorted to the ring by his valet Jeffries. AUGUST 19, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Don McIntyre versus Gorgeous George & the Mighty Yankee ruled a no contest Notes: Gorgeous George was escorted to the ring by his valet Jeffries. AUGUST 26, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel, Dick Steinborn & Bill Dromo defeated Roy Nelson, Boris & Nicoli Volkoff Notes: Reginald Gable managed Roy Nelson. SEPTEMBER 23, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Cage Match (No DQ): Ray Gunkel defeated the Mighty Yankee SEPTEMBER 30, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Freddie Blassie OCTOBER 7, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Roy Nelson by disqualification OCTOBER 21, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Roy Nelson by disqualification Notes: Reginald Gable managed Roy Nelson. OCTOBER 28, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Freddie Blassie & Roy Nelson versus Ray Gunkel & Dick Steinborn Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. Reginald Gable managed Roy Nelson. DECEMBER 23, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Freddie Blassie by disqualification DECEMBER 30, 1960 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Cyclone Tag Team Match: Ray Gunkel & Chief Little Eagle defeated Freddie & Mickey Blassie JANUARY 6, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Tuxedo Match: Ray Gunkel defeated Freddie Blassie Notes: The match between Ray Gunkel and Freddie Blassie featured both men wrestling in tuxedos. JANUARY 27, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel, Bill Dromo & Tiny Evans defeated Danny Miller, Red Dugan & Gypsy Joe FEBRUARY 3, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Gypsy Joe MARCH 31, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Special Challenge Match: Ray Gunkel defeated Gypsy Joe by disqualification APRIL 28, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Loser Rides Jackass Match (No DQ): Ray Gunkel defeated Gypsy Joe Notes: As a result of the stipulation in the match between Ray Gunkel and Gypsy Joe, the latter had to ride a donkey around the auditorium and out into the streets following the match. MAY 19, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Loser Gets Haircut Match: Ray Gunkel defeated Gypsy Joe Notes: As a result of the stipulation for the match between Ray Gunkel and Gypsy Joe, the latter had his pony tail removed by a barber following the match. JUNE 9, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > AWA World Heavyweight Title Match: Dick the Bruiser* defeated Ray Gunkel by disqualification Notes: Ray Gunkel was disqualified when he accidentally hit the referee in his match with Dick the Bruiser. JUNE 13, 1961 (TUESDAY) MACON, GA PORTER STADIUM (Fred Ward Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Southern Heavyweight Title Match: Ray Gunkel* defeated Jerry Graham by disqualification Notes: It is unclear as to how Ray Gunkel came to be recognized as Southern Heavyweight Champion. The last reference we have shows Skull Murphy achieving statewide recognition as of April 11, 1961. JUNE 16, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ten-Round Boxing Match: Ray Gunkel defeated Dick the Bruiser by disqualification JUNE 23, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lights Out Match: Ray Gunkel defeated Jerry Graham JUNE 30, 1961 (FRIDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel versus Gypsy Joe Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. JULY 4, 1961 (TUESDAY) ATLANTA, GA PONCE de LEON BALL PARK [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Jerry Graham JULY 7, 1961 (FRIDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Boxing Match: Ray Gunkel versus Gypsy Joe Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. JULY 14, 1961 (FRIDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Handicap Match: Gypsy Joe versus Ray Gunkel & Ed Capral Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. JULY 21, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel versus Gypsy Joe ended in a double countout Notes: Gypsy Joe had vowed that if he could not defeat Ray Gunkel, he would shave his head and leave Georgia. He did not leave, but we are to assume he had his head shaved, as it was reported there was a barber at ringside during the match. JULY 28, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Tommy Bell at 0:05 Notes: This card was originally scheduled to take place at Ponce de Leon Ball Park, but the threat of inclement weather moved it indoors. AUGUST 4, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel versus the Sheik ruled a no contest Notes: The Sheik was escorted to the ring by his valet Princess Salima. AUGUST 11, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated the Sheik by disqualification Notes: Paul Jones was the special referee for the match between Ray Gunkel and the Sheik. The Sheik was escorted to the ring by his valet Princess Salima. AUGUST 18, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Handicap Match: Ray Gunkel & Ed Capral defeated Gypsy Joe AUGUST 25, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Cage Match: Ray Gunkel defeated the Sheik by disqualification Notes: Red Dugan was the special referee for the match between Ray Gunkel and the Sheik. The Sheik was escorted to the ring by his valet Princess Salima. The Sheik was disqualified when he hit Dugan. SEPTEMBER 22, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Ivan Zukoff > The Country Plowboy defeated the Viking by disqualification Notes: Charlie Harben and Chuck Burger were credited as being referees on this card. Harben disqualified the Viking during his match against the Country Plowboy when Ivan Zukoff interfered and attacked the Plowboy. Ray Gunkel helped clear the ring by chasing Zukoff and the Viking away. SEPTEMBER 29, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Tornado Tag Team Match: Ray Gunkel & the Country Plowboy defeated Ivan Zukoff & the Viking NOVEMBER 24, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Southern Tag Team Title Match: Don McIntyre & Ray Gunkel* defeated Jerry Graham & the Assassin Notes: Following the match between Don McIntyre & Ray Gunkel and Jerry Graham & the Assassin, Graham and the Assassin both blamed each other for the loss. The Assassin announced he would be bringing in a new partner. It is unclear as to how McIntyre & Gunkel came to be recognized as Southern Tag Team Champions. The last reference we have shows Bob Rasmussen & Guy Mitchell defending the title against Angelo Savoldi & Gypsy Joe on May 27, 1961, in Atlanta. DECEMBER 1, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Southern Tag Team Title Match: the Assassins defeated Ray Gunkel & Don McIntyre* to win title Notes: Ray Gunkel & Don McIntyre had been billed as Southern Tag Team Champions since November 24, 1961. DECEMBER 9, 1961 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA WLWA STUDIOS (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: This was for the Live Atlanta Wrestling television program hosted by Ed Capral. The Assassins allowed Jerry Graham to pick any partner he wanted for a match on December 15, 1961, and to the fans surprise, he selected Ray Gunkel. DECEMBER 15, 1961 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Jerry Graham defeated the Assassins by disqualification Notes: The Assassins were disqualified during their match with Ray Gunkel & Jerry Graham for double teaming. FEBRUARY 26, 1962 (MONDAY) AUGUSTA, GA WILLIAM BELL AUDITORIUM (Steve Manderson Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Lou Bastien versus the Assassins Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. APRIL 20, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Bob Ellis defeated Lenny Montana & the Canadian Angel Notes: In the program we have for this card, it is the first to announce Don McIntyre taking over as promoter out of the Atlanta office. Paul Jones made a final appearance in his regular column, stating that he was retiring so he and his wife could spend more time together. It has widely been reported that he had really stepped back his efforts and allowed McIntyre, Ray Gunkel, and Freddie Blassie handle the promotional and booking chores that he had long been credited for to this point. At our best estimation, the passing of the torch actually began around 1955 or 1956. He reportedly sold most of his shares in the promotion to McIntyre around this time. APRIL 27, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > US Tag Team Title Match: the Assassins* and Ray Gunkel & Bob Ellis wrestled to a draw Notes: Charlie Harben was credited as being a referee on this card. Following the match between the Assassins and Ray Gunkel & Bob Ellis, Commissioner Howard Haire declared the US Tag Team Title would be held up pending a rematch on May 4, 1962. The Assassins had been the reigning US Tag Team Champions since they defeated Eddie Graham & Dick Steinborn on January 26, 1962, in Atlanta. MAY 4, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > US Tag Team Title Match: Ray Gunkel & Bob Ellis defeated the Assassins to win title Notes: The US Tag Team Title had been held up by Commissioner Howard Haire on April 27, 1962, following a match between champions the Assassins and Ray Gunkel & Bob Ellis. This was a rematch to determine the champions. JUNE 2, 1962 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA PONCE de LEON BALL PARK [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Tony Barbetta > Ray Gunkel & Dick Steinborn defeated Lenny Montana & the Great Malenko Notes: Ray Gunkel substituted for Eddie Graham to team with Dick Steinborn in the match with Lenny Montana & the Great Malenko. JUNE 8, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Kurt & Karl Von Brauner defeated Ray Gunkel & Dick Steinborn Notes: Saul Weingeroff managed Kurt & Karl Von Brauner. JUNE 22, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Chief Little Eagle defeated Kurt & Karl Von Brauner Notes: Saul Weingeroff managed Kurt & Karl Von Brauner. JULY 13, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > World Heavyweight Title Match: Freddie Blassie* defeated Ray Gunkel Notes: Freddie Blassie had been billed as World Heavyweight Champion since June 29, 1962. JULY 20, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > World Heavyweight Title Match: Freddie Blassie* defeated Ray Gunkel Notes: Freddie Blassie had been billed as World Heavyweight Champion since June 29, 1962. AUGUST 10, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated the Russian Crusher AUGUST 17, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Mr. Moto by disqualification SEPTEMBER 14, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Mr. Moto and the Assassins wrestled to a draw NOVEMBER 16, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & the Kentuckians defeated Freddie Blassie, Lenny Montana & Gypsy Joe Notes: There were two referees for the match between Ray Gunkel & the Kentuckians and Freddie Blassie, Lenny Montana & Gypsy Joe. NOVEMBER 23, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Twenty-Round Boxing Match: Ray Gunkel defeated Freddie Blassie Notes: Chief Little Eagle was the special referee for the match between Ray Gunkel and Freddie Blassie. NOVEMBER 30, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel, Rito Carreon & Chief Little Eagle defeated Freddie Blassie, Lenny Montana & Gypsy Joe DECEMBER 7, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Dick the Bruiser by disqualification DECEMBER 14, 1962 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Freddie Blassie & Dick the Bruiser defeated Ray Gunkel & Lenny Montana JANUARY 4, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > World Heavyweight Title Match: Freddie Blassie* and Ray Gunkel wrestled to a draw Notes: Les Ruffen was the special referee for the match between Ray Gunkel and Freddie Blassie. Blassie had been billed as World Heavyweight Champion since June 29, 1962. FEBRUARY 15, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Texas Death Loser Leaves Match: Ray Gunkel defeated Freddie Blassie at 19:00 MARCH 1, 1963 (FRIDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel, Derrell Cochran & Chief Little Eagle defeated Lenny Montana, George Bell & Prince Omar MARCH 9, 1963 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Tarzan Tyler defeated Ray Gunkel APRIL 27, 1963 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Derrell Cochran defeated George Bell & Chris Averoff Notes: Ray Gunkel was scheduled to wrestle George Cannon, but Cannon failed to appear, and the match where he teamed with Derrell Cochran against George Bell & Chris Averoff was a last minute addition. MAY 17, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Danny Plechas JUNE 7, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA PONCE de LEON BALL PARK [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Corsica Joe JUNE 14, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > International Tag Team Title Match: Ray Gunkel & Dick Steinborn defeated Lenny Montana & Tarzan Tyler* to win title Notes: Lenny Montana & Tarzan Tyler had been billed as International Tag Team Champions since June 5, 1963. JUNE 21, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Carlos Mendoza 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 5, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Tarzan Tyler Notes: Chief Little Eagle was the special referee for the match between Ray Gunkel and Tarzan Tyler. AUGUST 16, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Saul Weingeroff, Kurt & Karl Von Brauner defeated Ray Gunkel, Joe Scarpa & Don McIntyre Notes: Saul Weingeroff managed Kurt & Karl Von Brauner. Weingeroff reportedly struck McIntyre with a blackjack, causing him to require six stitches to the back of his head to close the wound. SEPTEMBER 13, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Mike Paidousis SEPTEMBER 20, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Lenny Montana & Tarzan Tyler defeated Ray Gunkel & Joe Scarpa OCTOBER 18, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel, Chief Big Heart & Chief Little Eagle defeated Lenny Montana, Tarzan Tyler & the Mighty Hercules Notes: Tim Geohagen was the special referee for the match between Ray Gunkel, Chief Big Heart & Chief Little Eagle and Lenny Montana, Tarzan Tyler & the Mighty Hercules. Following the match, Big Heart claimed that when the Outlaw came to ringside, he had handed a foreign object to Hercules, which was later used to injure Big Heart. NOVEMBER 8, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > American Tag Team Match: Ray Gunkel, Chief Big Heart & Chief Little Eagle defeated Lenny Montana, the Outlaw & the Mighty Hercules DECEMBER 13, 1963 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Boxing Match: Ray Gunkel defeated the Mighty Hercules by TKO in fourth round Notes: Archie Moore was the special referee for the match between Ray Gunkel and the Mighty Hercules. JANUARY 17, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Eastern Heavyweight Title versus Hair Match: Ray Gunkel* defeated Tarzan Tyler Notes: As part of the stipulation, Tarzan Tyler was forced to have his head shaved following the match with Ray Gunkel. It is unclear as to how Gunkel came to be recognized as Eastern Heavyweight Champion. The last reference we have shows Eddie Graham defending the title against the Mighty Hercules on December 6, 1963, in Atlanta. MARCH 27, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Stan Stasiak APRIL 11, 1964 (SATURDAY) FOREST PARK, GA FOREST PARK RECREATION BUILDING (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel versus Red Roberts Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. MAY 15, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Don McIntyre Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Sputnik Monroe defeated Ray Gunkel Notes: This was the final Atlanta card promoted by Don McIntyre. Les Wolfe replaced him and began promoting immediately. McIntyre had sold his shares of stock in the office to Fuller. It is interesting to note that in the program for this card, McIntyre provided no hints in his column that this deal was happening, nor was there anything in the May 22, 1964, program explaining the change in promoters. MAY 16, 1964 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Tex Riley defeated Saul Weingeroff & Kurt Von Brauner MAY 22, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Les Wolfe Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Sputnik Monroe at 50:10 Notes: This was the first Atlanta card promoted by Les Wolfe following the departure of Don McIntyre. MAY 23, 1964 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Tex Riley versus Saul Weingeroff & Kurt Von Brauner Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. JUNE 12, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Les Wolfe Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Lenny Montana JULY 4, 1964 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel versus Sputnik Monroe Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. JULY 10, 1964 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: This was Paul Jones first card in about two years, since he had retired and sold his interest in the office to Don McIntyre. It is said that Jones was simply brought back for public relations purposes, as his share of stock in the office was much smaller than before he sold to McIntyre in 1962. His role as promoter simply meant that he was the figurehead and presented as the man in charge to the fans. However, Ray Gunkel and Buddy Fuller were the top men at the helm by this time. JULY 11, 1964 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel versus Sputnik Monroe Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. Red Dugan was the special referee for the match between Ray Gunkel and Sputnik Monroe. JULY 18, 1964 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Boxing Match: Ray Gunkel versus Sputnik Monroe Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. JULY 25, 1964 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Buddy Fuller versus Paul DeGaulle & Sputnik Monroe Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. AUGUST 1, 1964 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Battle Royal featuring Sputnik Monroe, Krusher Karlson, Derrell Cochran, Ray Gunkel, and Charlie Carr Notes: It is unclear as to the reason or result for the battle royal. AUGUST 22, 1964 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Derrell Cochran versus George Harris & Red Roberts Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. 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 21, 1964 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Buddy Fuller versus the Mysterious Medics Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. DECEMBER 5, 1964 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Freddie Blassie versus Ray Gunkel Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. DECEMBER 12, 1964 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Freddie Blassie versus Ray Gunkel Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. Red Dugan was the special referee for the match between Freddie Blassie versus Ray Gunkel. 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. JANUARY 16, 1965 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL AUDITORIUM (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Georgia Heavyweight Title Match: Mario Galento* versus Ray Gunkel Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. Mario Galento had been the reigning Georgia Heavyweight Champion since he defeated Sputnik Monroe on November 13, 1964, in Atlanta. MARCH 5, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) Notes: The program for this card mentions that Ray Gunkel would not be in attendance, as he was going to be getting married to Ann Campbell. APRIL 24, 1965 (SATURDAY) ATLANTA, GA PONCE de LEON BALL PARK (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Battle of the States Georgia versus Tennessee: Ray Gunkel, Greg Peterson & Jesse James (GA) versus Ronnie Etchison, Tony Milano & Lester Welch (TN) Notes: The pairings and results for the tournament were not reported after the card. APRIL 30, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Tarzan Tyler MAY 1, 1965 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL BALLPARK (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Mario Galento versus Ray Gunkel Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. MAY 7, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Battle of the States Georgia versus Florida: Eddie Graham, Sam Steamboat & Dick Steinborn (FL) defeated Ray Gunkel, Greg Peterson & Chief Little Eagle (GA) Notes: The pairings for the tournament were not reported after the card. MAY 15, 1965 (SATURDAY) MARIETTA, GA LARRY BELL BALLPARK (Elmo Chappell Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Frankie Cain versus the Corsicans Notes: No documented results for this match have been found. MAY 28, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA PONCE de LEON BALL PARK [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > World Tag Team Title Match: Kurt & Karl Von Brauner* defeated Ray Gunkel & Lester Welch Notes: Saul Weingeroff managed Kurt & Karl Von Brauner. The Von Brauners had been billed as World Tag Team Champions since May 18, 1965. It was reported that Stanley Weston and Bob Verlin of Wrestling Illustrated magazine would be in attendance. JUNE 4, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA PONCE de LEON BALL PARK [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > World Tag Team Title Match: Ray Gunkel & Lester Welch defeated Kurt & Karl Von Brauner* by disqualification Notes: Saul Weingeroff managed Kurt & Karl Von Brauner. The Von Brauners had been billed as World Tag Team Champions since May 18, 1965. JUNE 25, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Mario Galento defeated Ray Gunkel by disqualification JULY 2, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Mario Galento JULY 4, 1965 (SUNDAY) ATLANTA, GA Notes: Promoter Paul Jones and his wife Frances Jones, as well as Ray Gunkel and Chief Little Eagle, participated in the annual Independence Day parade downtown. AUGUST 13, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel & Nick Kozak versus Mario Galento & Dutch Savage ruled a no contest SEPTEMBER 10, 1965 (FRIDAY) ATLANTA, GA ATLANTA MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM [P] (Paul Jones Promoter / Georgia Championship Wrestling) > Ray Gunkel defeated Freddie Blassie by forfeit Notes: Ray Gunkel was declared the winner of the match when Freddie Blassie was unable to wrestle, having been injured in a pre-match brawl with Mario Galento. Gunkel then challenged Galento to an unscheduled match, but Galento refused. Next |