WWE Paul Heyman DVD Review: 13 Things You Should Know

12. Dirtsheet Writer, Production Meetings, Club Promoter

One thing fans may not have been aware of is that Paul was actually one of the early dirtsheet innovators. It wasn't like he was breaking kayfabe in a Dave Meltzer style format, but he was distributing his own Newsletter in the 1980's. Indeed, by 1986, Heyman claims to have been running three wrestling magazines at the same time as also doing commentary for regional promotions. These opportunities all came about via hustling. He started out as just a kid at ringside doing photographs, but through force of personality he made the right connections to become a factor in the business. He had his first production opportunity in this era, blagging his way into a Dusty Rhodes production meeting where the veteran star taught him a bit of the show mechanics. His first taste of promoting also came in this time, but it wasn't wrestling promotion; it was nightclub promotion. Heyman got a gig doing photographs at the legendary Studio 54 club in New York City. Through this role he eventually ended up promoting events at the club, including his first ever wrestling event, a 'wrestling party' which featured stars of the 80's era. He had the connections and he now had the experience of promoting and producing. The enthusiastic photographer had blossomed into a genuine businessman.