On the heels of a year that saw Nick Gulas and Jerry Jarrett patch up their differences enough to work together 1980 seemed to be a year where the sky was the limit. Good intentions and well-thought out scenarios though often go awry when something unexpected occurs. Such a monkey wrench would be thrown into the mix in 1980 when an important part of the territory, Jerry Lawler, suffered a serious injury. Promoter Jerry Jarrett would work to fill this gap all year long. While all this was going on, three important players in the history of the territory decided to retire and in the process marked an end to three long, successful careers. Their retirements placed the future of professional wrestling in several cities in the territory up in the air.

Sleeper

Professional wrestling has had many wrestlers who were very good but who never received the honor and prestige that deservedly should follow. Various reasons could be given as to why such things occur. Physical size limits stardom for some because, for the most part, big wrestlers seem larger than life and size seems to make bookers and promoters believe more tickets can be sold. Lack of charisma holds others back sometimes since wrestling depends on the colorful and flamboyant. It could be a combination of these factors or other things. No matter what though, it is hard to hold back a performer who is consistent and dependable day in and day out.