50 Fascinating Facts About WWE in The 1980s
2. Ric Flair Almost Jumped For SummerSlam 1988
Those who kept a close eye on the pro wrestling industry at large in 1988 could see how separate the WWF's product was from the NWA. That'd also be true once Ted Turner took control and turned it into WCW. In Atlanta, hot in-ring action and excellent traditional wrestling angles were the most important thing to fans. In the WWF, star power and storylines reigned. That's why it's so incredible to think of the NWA's top star jumping ship.
Ric Flair nearly did it.
Sure, he'd make the leap in 1991 for a two year spell on Vince McMahon's side, but things were different in '88. Flair was renowned as the wrestler of the 80s, and he was undoubtedly the most important worker to the NWA. Not only did the 'Nature Boy' have top matches against all comers, but he was one of the greatest promo men in the business. Losing him would've been disastrous.
The WWF planned to take Flair from the Alliance ahead of the first SummerSlam. Reportedly, he would’ve wrestled Randy Savage whilst still NWA Champion, which is some thought. Changing his mind/getting cold feet (take your pick), Ric decided to stay put and help the NWA finalise a deal with Turner instead.
Savage teamed with Mega-Powers partner Hogan against Ted DiBiase and a fading Andre The Giant on that card. Being honest, that Mega-Powers union makes the Flair thing a bit dubious. There's no way a top promoted bout like Mega-Powers vs. Mega-Bucks was off the table just for Ric. He likely would've tangled with somebody else at SummerSlam, which would've been some conversation to sit in on.