Without the presence of Terry Funk, ECW would have never gained the exposure or notoriety that it did. At a time when Superstars from WWE and WCW were far too concerned with protecting their spots and preventing the growth and evolution of the industry by putting over young performers, Funk gleefully took on the role of mentor for the crop of characters Paul Heyman had in mind to carry his blossoming promotion. More importantly, he had no problems putting those same young stars over. It was essential in ensuring the future of the industry, after all. So it only made sense that Heyman rewarded his loyal veteran with an ECW Championship run. In 1993, he defeated Sabu in a No Disqualification match to capture the gold. It was his title victory four years later, though, that remains one of the most enduring moments in the history of the promotion At Barely Legal, the first pay-per-view ever presented by ECW, Funk defeated Stevie Richards and The Sandman in a Three Way Dance to earn an immediate title opportunity against Raven. Making the most of his chance, he knocked off the snot-nosed punk from the Bowery and captured his second heavyweight title with the organization. The images of a bloodied Funk celebrating his championship victory were immortalized in the 1999 documentary film, "Beyond the Mat."
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
