The Race-Murdoch feud had been ongoing for years. It intensified during Race's second run with the NWA title. This match had the title at stake. Prior to this match, Dory, Jr. went on TV and stated that Murdoch was a lot closer to capturing the title than he was. Naturally, any match with the World Champion guaranteed high turnout at the coliseum, and this was no exception. With Junior's comments, could the unthinkable happen- a title switch in Odessa? Uh, no. It was a great match, however, ending with Race pinning Murdoch. Murdoch would go on later that summer to engage in a series of great time limit draws with Race throughout the territory.

Ted DiBiase vs Skandor Akbar
April 11, 1979

Ted DiBiase began wrestling in the area in 1976. Even in his rookie days, you could tell he was bound for a great career. Akbar, by the time this match took place, spent most of his time in the role of the hated manager. The general donned the tights for this bout booked as a loser leaves town match. DiBiase and his partner, Merced Solis (Tito Satana) had feuded with Mr.Pogo and Mr.Sato. The fans reveled at the thought that DiBiase would finally have a one-on-one encounter with their manager. Unfortunately, Pogo and Sato's interference led to a victory by Akbar. DiBiase left the area to work for Bill Watts.

Dory Funk,Jr. vs. Black Jack Mulligan
May 8, 1979

Junior's International title was at stake in this match. Mulligan had initially appeared as a face in the territory after he and Murdoch acquired the Funks' interest. He quickly changed his tactics to make a heel turn in the spring of 1979. Junior held this title on several occasions. He had defeated Dick Murdoch in Kansas City in April to recapture the belt. During this time period, I believe there was a loose connection between the booking offices in Amarillo, Kansas City and San Francisco. I know the Amarillo TV program began airing in Northern California. With the belt on the line, Mulligan prevailed. Murdoch would recapture the title on July Fourth in Amarillo with a victory over his business partner. Dory began making more appearances in Florida, San Antonio, and Japan.

NEXT MONTH:

We'll look back at the history of the brass knuckles title in the region.