10 Most Effective Wrestling Blade Jobs Ever
2. Bill Watts Proves Why He Was One Of The Best Bookers Ever
Bill Watts was a booking genius who revolutionised the episodic TV model, and, on an episode of Mid-South Wrestling that aired on November 16, 1985, he perfected his innovation. That show remains one of the finest hours of pro wrestling history.
The touring NWA World Heavyweight Champion flew from territory to territory. His star power drew houses and prevented the region from growing stale; his in-ring excellence was such that they were able to protect their aura and flatter the man who took him to his limit. The spirited losing babyface then used the rub to generate robust business in the medium-term.
Watts also perfected this practise at the exact same time.
Ted DiBiase earned his first shot at Ric Flair. Dick Murdoch disagreed, and disagreed violently; in a scary assault, he smashed DiBiase's face in. The match was thought to be in danger, but DiBiase refused to prolong his chase. Watts - and Tony Khan really should book something to similar effect, because this story beat perfectly underscored the repercussions of blood loss - warned the family audience that, were DiBiase's "pressure bandage" to fall apart, things could become unsettling. That they did, of course; DiBiase, a f*cking mess, sold fading into semi-consciousness so convincingly that it was frightening. He battled bravely, but he couldn't make the count. Murdoch then completed his job by smashing DiBiase Jr. with a wicked brainbuster on the exposed floor.
Flair retained his cheating bastard aura.
DiBiase was protected.
His next grudge opponent was set up.
The very nature of bloodletting never felt more dangerous.
This was the best artistic use of the blade ever, but as for the most effective, there can only be one...