NWA FanFest Report Part 1

Myself with Diamond Dallas Page at the recent NWA Cinvention.

NWA Legends Fan Fest was without a doubt, the best experience I have had in over 20 years in the wrestling business. I can not stress enough, I don’t care who you are, what you have done on the indy scene, it is a must do experience. With 40 Legends available the entire weekend at your disposal and nearly 60 vendor guests, you can enjoy being a fan again or learn by listening to the ones who paved the way.

Growing up, Mr Wrestling II (Johnny Walker) and Tommy Rich were the guys I admired the most. Wrestling II, who is now in his 70′s had a bad health scare at last years convention, but was on fire this year. I was lucky enough to sit with him many times and I only wish I was younger and could start all over again to follow his advice. We also spoke in detail about people currently or in the past who have used the gimmick that himself and Tim Woods made famous.

Tommy Rich was the legend I chose to sit with at The Hall of Heroes banquet. Their were 5 of us at the table and shortly thereafter Ron Bass pulled up a chair. It was great talking to Ron and we discover we only live about 30 minutes apart. Also during the banquet, I had a great conversation with Joyce Grable and Roddy Piper. After the banquet, I was able to speak and catch up with Dallas Page. Dallas was just breaking into WCW during my time in WCW and he remembered things WE did, that I forgot.

Bobby Heenan was there, unable to speak, but a first class act. Meeting Heenan was the highlight of the entire weekend.

Colonel Buck Robley, I probably spoke with more than anyone else. I always enjoyed being a booker and his insight was second to none.

During the Q&A sessions, Stan Hansen was the most respectful and would not bad mouth anyone in the business. Hansen defines the word professional. Then we had Eddie Mansfield. He was outspoken and didn’t beat around the bush. David Schultz was fun to listen to and spoke about his venture as a Bounty Hunter. Bill Eadie (Superstar/Demolition Ax) also had a lot to say.

I also met people from all over the world. I made a great friend who came all the way from Japan. There was also my boy Bruiser.

When you are in the business, you also have to be a fan of the business. I obtained some great memorabilia.

Overall it was a great 4 days. I wil share many stories over the next few months.

NWA FanFest Part 1

All the items to be signed at FanFest

Here is a look at the items I will be taking with me to NWA Legends FanFest this Thursday. I will be updating daily. Stay tuned!

NWA Legends FanFest

Yes, the title is correct. It says “FANFEST.” In wrestling, I suppose that is taboo, or being a mark. I finished my time on the indy scene on a low note, but I can hold my head high, knowing what I have been able to do in my span of nearly 20 years.

I have the rare chance of going to a convention and Hall of Heroes banquet honoring some of the greatest  people ever being in this business.  Some of the guys I have worked with or met in the past, but others, it will be an honor, just to simply walk up, extend my hand and say, “Thank You, thanks for making this sport great.”

Some may call it being a “mark,” but I call it honoring tradition. Atlanta, GA! Here I come.

Where did Wentworth come from?

I often get asked where I came up with the name Marcus Wentworth. When I started managing, I was using a biker gimmick called CC Ryder.  A couple of years later, I was offered work with Bill Weaver who was running shows and tv in Melbourne, FL under the CCW banner. I started out with Pat Powers, but was eventually paired with The Shane Twins. Bill did not care for a biker gimmick and asked me to come up with something else. At the time I lived on Wentworth drive and thought it would be a perfect name. My favorite manager was Jim Cornette and patterned my attire after him. As the years passed, the outfits and persona slowly evolved into my own.

The beginning of my managing career