• "Cannonball Shoot Chronicles: The PN News Story – From WCW to Europe’s Wrestling Glory"

  • Nov 19 2024
  • Length: 1 hr and 19 mins
  • Podcast

"Cannonball Shoot Chronicles: The PN News Story – From WCW to Europe’s Wrestling Glory"

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  • Summary

  • Step into the extraordinary journey of PN News, the charismatic "Rapmaster" who made waves in WCW, became a sensation in Europe as "Cannonball Grizzly," and left an indelible mark on professional wrestling. In this exclusive shoot interview, PN News reveals the untold stories of his rise in the industry, from his humble beginnings as a college football player to being scouted in the unlikeliest of places—a bar in Wisconsin. With candid insights, he recounts his rigorous training at Brad Rheingans’ camp and the grueling 300-day schedules that defined wrestling in the 1980s.
    Explore his transformative years in the Pacific Northwest under Don Owens, where legends like Buddy Rose and Matt Borne helped shape his career. Learn about his adventures in Europe, where he became "Cannonball Grizzly," captivating audiences with agility and charisma rarely seen in wrestlers of his size. PN News shares his thoughts on iconic figures like Kurt Hennig, Fit Finlay, and Chris Benoit, while giving listeners a peek behind the curtain of wrestling psychology, backstage pranks, and the unique challenges of working in territories across the globe.
    This episode dives deep into the cultural contrasts between wrestling in the U.S. and Europe, PN News’ memorable moments in CWA tournaments, and the legacy of legendary promoters like Otto Wanz. Whether you’re a wrestling historian or a casual fan, this interview is a treasure trove of insights, laughter, and rare stories that will leave you wanting more. Join us as PN News shares the highs, the lows, and the unforgettable moments that defined his illustrious career.
    • Getting into Wrestling (00:01–02:38): PN News transitioned from college football to wrestling after a chance encounter while working at a bar in Wisconsin. He trained at Brad Rheingans’ camp associated with the AWA, debuting in March 1987.
    • Early Training and Matches (02:38–04:40): PN News adapted quickly to the physical demands due to his athletic background. His first match in the Minneapolis Auditorium was memorable despite his inexperience, with Rick Ganner helping carry the match.
    • Mentors and Influence in AWA (05:10–06:06): Kurt Hennig played a significant role, sharing advice on ring psychology that resonated later. PN News was also a victim of Hennig’s notorious pranks.
    • Pacific Northwest (06:06–07:37): Working for Don Owens in Portland was pivotal. PN News credits Owens and veteran colleagues like Buddy Rose and Matt Borne for shaping his career and knowledge of wrestling psychology.
    • International Career (09:07–12:50): PN News gained significant exposure in Europe, particularly with CWA in Germany and Austria. He became "Cannonball Grizzly" due to his unique agility for a wrestler of his size, and the European system's psychology and round format were distinct from U.S. wrestling.
    • CWA and European Wrestling Scene (14:14–16:22): Life in Europe was characterized by long tournaments in cities like Vienna and Hanover. He appreciated the relaxed lifestyle and cultural immersion while working for promoters like Otto Wanz.
    • Memories of Opponents (16:55–17:56): PN News enjoyed working with European talent, including Fit Finlay, Tony Sinclair, and Danny Collins. He respected Otto Wanz as a promoter despite the decline of CWA in its later years.
    • Chris Benoit (18:25): PN News shared positive memories of working with Chris Benoit in Europe. They shared a dressing room with wrestlers like Scott Hall and Charles Wright, having enjoyable times together.
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