8 Important Wrestling Events That Happened When Great Balls Of Fire Was Released

In two weeks, WWE presents the Raw-branded Great Balls of Fire pay-per-view in Dallas, Texas. Although the bouts have not been finalized, the currently scheduled card has a stacked lineup of well-built matches. Commercials have shown a drive-in theater with current WWE Superstars singing the eponymous song. It’s a throwback to Happy Days, a simpler time before technology dominated society.

Ever since the pay-per-view was been announced, fans have been scratching their heads as to why Vince McMahon would choose a 60-year-old rock-and-roll hit as the title of his new event. Has the chairman finally lost his mind? Is this a precursor to resurrecting the sexual overtones of the Attitude Era? Will Jerry Lee Lewis serve as the special guest referee for Brock Lesnar vs. Samoa Joe?

Perhaps McMahon realizes how influential 1957 was to the pro wrestling industry. It was a year of turbulence, a changing of the guard in the National Wrestling Alliance with major long-term ramifications. Partnerships were formed, illustrious careers began, and many future stars were born. For McMahon specifically, the year holds sentimental value as his life changed forever.

Before Brock Lesnar and Kurt Angle, there was Dick Hutton.

A three-time NCAA champion, the Oklahoma State powerhouse represented the U.S. in the 1948 Olympics. After tearing up the collegiate scene, Hutton transitioned to the professional circuit, training under pioneer Ed 'Strangler' Lewis. With his brute strength and unbelievable speed, Hutton turned back the challenges of local yokels, offering fans a dollar for every minute that they lasted, and a grand if they won. Nobody ever took home $1,000 as Hutton usually disposed of his opponents in 15 seconds.

On 14 November, Hutton upset real-life friend Lou Thesz in Toronto for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. He remained undefeated for nearly two more years until Pat O’Connor ended his title reign.