10 Biggest Stories From NWA 70 (And What They Mean For The Company's Future)

2. Willie Mack Becomes The New National Champion

The Mack had earned his way into the National tournament finals thanks to his experience, quickness, and deceptively superior athletic ability. Meanwhile, Samuel Shaw got there through strength, brutality, and cunning deviousness. Following the attack after his qualifying win, Mack was suffering before the final contest even began but made up for it by attacking Shaw from behind during his entrance.

The former TNA star quickly recovered, however, and began to wear down the already hurt Mack with debilitating holds. On two occasions, Willie was milliseconds away from succumbing to Shaw’s submissions but rallied back with a flurry of offense, including an impressive standing moonsault for a near fall. When Shaw missed a swanton bomb, Mack capitalized with a stunner but ate a superkick after a near fall. Shaw then missed a second kick, allowing Willie Mack to hit another stunner to become the new NWA National Champion.

While everyone in the tournament was a viable contender for the belt, Willie Mack showed unprecedented tenacity on Sunday. Now, Mack will defend the National belt across the country in promotions like his home of Championship Wrestling from Hollywood - and maybe even in IMPACT Wrestling, where he recently debuted.

Contributor

Douglas Scarpa is a freelance writer, independent filmmaker, art school graduate, and pro wrestling aficionado -- all of which mean he is in financial ruin. He has no backup plan to speak of, yet maintains his abnormally high spirits. If he had only listened to the scorn of his childhood teachers, he wouldn't be in this situation.