Like the majority of his career, Greg Valentine's numerous runs as United States champion are underrated in the annals of wrestling history. A heated rivalry with Ric Flair in 1980 netted the Hammer his first title reign. It also helped establish the second-generation star as one of the biggest names in the industry, one worth Vince McMahon recruiting when he began his nationwide expansion. Before that happened, Valentine became a key part of the NWA. His war with Roddy Piper not only was brutal and violent, it led to a Dog Collar match between the two at the inaugural Starrcade pay-per-view. That match was bloody and vicious, with Valentine hammering away at Piper's ear, effecting his equilibrium. But Piper fought back and won the match in what was a glorious moment. While it was not for the title, it did represent the culmination of one of the title's greatest feuds. A hard-nosed worker, who could punish opponents with his clubbing strikes or technical skill, Valentine remains one of the most well-rounded wrestlers to ever hold the title.