AWA Unleashed

40 Episodes
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By: Chris Tubbs

”The Voice of Minnesota Wrestling” and former AWA Ring Announcer/Broadcaster Mick Karch, former AWA Director/Producer ”Polish” Joe Ciupik and Chris Tubbs recap the glory days of the historic and influential American Wrestling Association.

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Ep. 231- The Best of 1982
Ep. 231- The Best of 1982 episode artwork
#238
Today at 1:21 PM

This week we look at the roster in the year 1982. We discuss the top villains and heroes, including Ken Patera, Nick Bockwinkel, Ray Stevens, Hulk Hogan, Tito Santana, Brad Rheigans and a TON more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 230- A tough time for modern pro wrestling
Ep. 230- A tough time for modern pro wrestling episode artwork
#237
09/29/2026

This week we take a break from our normal content and combine it with Back 2 Ringside as we discuss the tragic passing of Benjamin Satterly (aka Pac), on the heels of Andy Williams, what AEW is going through, Tony Khan stepping up, are there some similarities to 80's and 90's, violence and pressure on the indies and more.

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 229- No DQ and A
Ep. 229- No DQ and A episode artwork
#236
09/22/2026

This week it's another "No DQ  and A", where we answer your questions. Did Verne Gagne stiff Ric Flair at Twin Wars 90, The Crusher as "The Judge", Curt Hennig's friendship with Wade Boggs and more.   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 228- What were the hottest feuds of 1966?
Ep. 228- What were the hottest feuds of 1966? episode artwork
#235
09/15/2026

This week we continue to focus on the 1960's as we discuss the best feuds of 1966, including Crusher & Bruiser vs. Larry Hennig & Harley Race, Verne Gagne vs. Mad Dog Vachon, why there was a mixing and matching of main event matches and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 227- Who were the best babyfaces of the early 1960's?
Ep. 227- Who were the best babyfaces of the early 1960's? episode artwork
#234
09/08/2026

This week we discuss babyfaces from the early 1960's and why they were so influential. From looks to style to personality, these are some of the most iconic heroes in AWA history including Haystacks Calhoun, Hercules Coirtez, Eddie Sharkey and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 226- Who were the best heels of the early 1960's?
Ep. 226- Who were the best heels of the early 1960's? episode artwork
#233
09/01/2026

This week we discuss heels from the early 1960's and why they were as crucial as they were. From looks to style to personality, these are some of the most iconic bad guys in AWA history including Fritz Von Erich, Dr. Bill Miller, the Kalmikoff Brothers and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 225- What 70's and 80's villians didn't get over?
Ep. 225- What 70's and 80's villians didn't get over? episode artwork
#232
08/25/2026

This week we discuss heels from the 1970's and 1980's that didn't get over, which include (but not limited to) Larry Cameron, Kim Duk, Roger Kirby and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 224- No DQ and A
Ep. 224- No DQ and A episode artwork
#231
08/18/2026

This week it's another "No DQ and A" where we (sort of) answer your questions. We discuss honest paydays, what makes a legendary tag team, Little Bruiser, "Fast" Eddie Sharkey and more!

 

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 223- Spotlight- 1972
Ep. 223- Spotlight- 1972 episode artwork
#230
08/11/2026

This week we look back at the year 1972, including why it could be considered one of the best years, the sad reason why some teams were formed, memorable talent and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


BONUS EPISODE- What did it mean to Chad Gable to win the IC title at SummerSlam?
BONUS EPISODE- What did it mean to Chad Gable to win the IC title at SummerSlam? episode artwork
#229
08/10/2026

In this special bonus episode, Chris Tubbs and Mick Karch are joined by the NEW WWE Intercontinental Champion Chad Gable as we discuss winning the Intercontinental title in his hometown, being "one of us", the frustration of being overlooked, carrying on the legacy of Minnesota professional wrestling and more!    We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus  


Ep. 222- A look at Slick Mick's Pix!
Ep. 222- A look at Slick Mick's Pix! episode artwork
#228
08/06/2026

This week we're back with a look at "Slick Mick's Pix!" We get a cool shot of three world champions, tag team legends, "Ronnie Piper"?, Fed and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. Ep. 221- What's impressed Mickie James the most with the evolution of women's wrestling?
Ep. Ep. 221- What's impressed Mickie James the most with the evolution of women's wrestling? episode artwork
#227
07/28/2026

This week Chris Tubbs and Mick Karch are joined by the legendary Mickie James as we discuss the evolution and explosion of women's wrestling, preparing for major WWE shows, her husband Nick Aldis returning to the ring at SummerSlam and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


AWA Unleashed!- BONUS- How does an event like WrestleCon come together?
AWA Unleashed!- BONUS- How does an event like WrestleCon come together? episode artwork
#226
07/27/2026

In this bonus episode, Chris Tubbs talks with the Owner of HighSpots.com and Founder of WrestleCon, Michael Bochicchio about his first trip to Minneapolis, what he's looking forward to, what goes into planning an event like this, his relationship with WWE and more.   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 220- No DQ and A!
Ep. 220- No DQ and A! episode artwork
#225
07/21/2026

This week it's another "No DQ and A", where we answer your questions. We discuss July being a tough month for deaths, the greatest Japanese wrestler ever to appear in the AWA, which referee is most associated with the AWA, David Sammartino not getting over and more!

 

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 219- What a weekend!
Ep. 219- What a weekend! episode artwork
#224
07/14/2026

This week we recap our weekend at the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame Weekend in Waterloo!

 

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 218- A look at Slick Mick's Pix!
Ep. 218- A look at Slick Mick's Pix! episode artwork
#223
06/30/2026

This week we get a peak at some of Slick Mick's Pix! We see the most scarred forehead in wrestling?, a new spin on Nick vs. Verne, what is the "PPP," young Punk and more!

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus  


Ep. 217- Old School/New School Dream Teams!
Ep. 217- Old School/New School Dream Teams! episode artwork
#222
06/23/2026

This week we ask for YOUR dream tag team combination of an AWA star and wrestler from the current day!

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 216- No DQ and A
Ep. 216- No DQ and A episode artwork
#221
06/16/2026

This week it's another of our popular "No DQ and A." Why did Stan Kowalski hate the name Big K so much, how much was it just a "good old boys club", Chad Gable's fit in the AWA, seeing shenanigans first hand and more! If you have a question for the pod, email slicksnr@gmail.com.

 

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


NEW SCHOOL BREAK- What version of Bayley has been her favorite?
NEW SCHOOL BREAK- What version of Bayley has been her favorite? episode artwork
#220
06/16/2026

Today Chris Tubbs is joined by the incomparable Bayley! We discuss the evolution of women's wrestling, being a leader in the locker room, what version of Bayley is her favorite, her goal for SummerSlam and more!

 

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


NEW SCHOOL BREAK- Why does the Gingerbread Man make Trick Williams smile?
NEW SCHOOL BREAK- Why does the Gingerbread Man make Trick Williams smile? episode artwork
#219
06/16/2026

It's a bonus "new school" edition of AWA Unleashed as Chris Tubbs talks with the current WWE United States Trick Williams! We discuss reaching out to WWE (but not for wrestling), his time in NXT, the Gingerbread Man and more!

 

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 215- The Countdown to Waterloo has begun
Ep. 215- The Countdown to Waterloo has begun episode artwork
#218
06/02/2026

This week we talk with the Event Coordinator for the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Hall of Fame, Chad Olson about the last minute additions to this years activities, how the event has evolved, why each inductee is deserving and more.

 

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 214- What does Jimmy Garvin say about the win over the Road Warriors?
Ep. 214- What does Jimmy Garvin say about the win over the Road Warriors? episode artwork
#217
05/26/2026

This week we're joined by "Gorgeous" Jimmy Garvin as we discuss his journey to the AWA, why the weather didn't bother him, how he views the win over the Road Warriors, Precious and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 213- Spotlight: 1981
Ep. 213- Spotlight: 1981 episode artwork
#216
05/19/2026

This week we look back at the year 1981, including the nonsensical World Championship title change, where television syndication was booming, other "forgotten" titles, and more.   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 212- What's new in Waterloo?
Ep. 212- What's new in Waterloo? episode artwork
#215
05/12/2026

This week we have an extra special episode where we're joined by Gloria Lovell from the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame. We discuss her history in the business, how she eventually ended up getting involved in the Hall of Fame, this year's festivities and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus  


Ep. 211- Spotlight: 1962
Ep. 211- Spotlight: 1962 episode artwork
#214
05/05/2026

This week we look back at the year 1962. We discuss the importance in AWA history, all of the championships, what the territory looked like geographically, the top storyline, and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 210- Who makes the Golden Idol cry?
Ep. 210- Who makes the Golden Idol cry? episode artwork
#213
04/28/2026

This week we're joined by The Golden Idol! We discuss his training with Eddie Sharkey, who came up with the "Golden Idol" name, how Mick helped his career, who makes him emotional and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 209- Who would you talk to?
Ep. 209- Who would you talk to? episode artwork
#212
04/21/2026

This week we ask you guys who is the AWA personality you would like to sit down with and have a conversation with, and we let you explain why!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 208- No DQ and A
Ep. 208- No DQ and A episode artwork
#211
04/14/2026

This month's watchalong is "Monsters of the Mat!" We watch Big John Studd vs. Mad Dog Vachon, Big John Studd, The Heenan Family and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 207- What's been the highlight of Missy Hyatt's career?
Ep. 207- What's been the highlight of Missy Hyatt's career? episode artwork
#210
04/07/2026

This week we get a chance to talk with the "First Lady of Professional Wrestling" and Chris' first wrestling crush, the one and only Missy Hyatt! We discuss her many roles over the years, what territory did she enjoy working with the most, being a target at the Mick Foley Roast during last year’s Cauliflower Alley Club Reunion, her new project, some word association and a TON more!

  We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus  


Ep. 206- Who would you want as your bar fight backup?
Ep. 206- Who would you want as your bar fight backup? episode artwork
#209
03/31/2026

This week we ask who you want as backup in a bar fight? Names like John Nord, Mr. Saito, Andre the Giant, Harley Race and more!

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 205- Who are the top women in AWA history?
Ep. 205- Who are the top women in AWA history? episode artwork
#208
03/24/2026

This week we discuss the top women in AWA history, including Sherri Martel, Madusa, Vivian Vachon, Judy Martin and a ton more!

 

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 204- What made Miss Bunny Love a pioneer in women's wrestling?
Ep. 204- What made Miss Bunny Love a pioneer in women's wrestling? episode artwork
#207
03/17/2026

This week we're joined by Miss Bunny Love! We discuss her tough upbringing, how and why she got into professional wrestling, the relationship she had with the Poffo family and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 203- Spotlight: 1964
Ep. 203- Spotlight: 1964 episode artwork
#206
03/10/2026

This week we look at the year 1964! We discuss why it was an important year,the cities they ran, unfortunate passings, and a ton more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus  


Ep. 202- No DQ and A
Ep. 202- No DQ and A episode artwork
#205
03/03/2026

This week we empty the inbox with another "No DQ and A." We discuss Ray Stevens sense of humor, Billy Robinson not "doing business", Ox Baker's look, Dawn Lemke and a ton more   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 201- More of YOUR AWA dream cards!
Ep. 201- More of YOUR AWA dream cards! episode artwork
#204
02/24/2026

This week we continue getting YOUR Dream Cards. Whoever you want, and in any type of match you wish. You tell us what you would like to see, and we've got some unique matchups!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 200- What is YOUR AWA dream card?
Ep. 200- What is YOUR AWA dream card? episode artwork
#203
02/17/2026

This week it's Episode #200 where we get YOUR Dream Cards. Whoever you want, and in any type of match you wish. You tell us what you would like to see!

 

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 199- What was a television taping day like?
Ep. 199- What was a television taping day like? episode artwork
#202
02/10/2026

This week Mick tells us what it was like to attend an "All Star Wrestling" television taping. How did fans get tickets, what time did the wrestlers show up, when and how long were the tapings, tricky camera angles and more.

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 198- What was a day like in the AWA office?
Ep. 198- What was a day like in the AWA office? episode artwork
#201
02/03/2026

This week we're joined by former AWA Secretary/Administration Assistant Pat Marxen-Saba. We ask about being related to the Gagne's, what ribs she saw in the office, was she ever "kayfabed", the best and worst talent to work with, and more!

We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 197- Spotlight: 1971
Ep. 197- Spotlight: 1971 episode artwork
#200
01/27/2026

This week we look back at the year 1971! Mick and Joe discuss the historical significance, the tragedy that shook the promotion, some of the non Minneapolis cities and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus


Ep. 196- No DQ and A
Ep. 196- No DQ and A episode artwork
#199
01/20/2026

This week we're back for another "No DQ and A", where we answer your questions! We discuss multiple "Doctor X” sightings, the Rick Martel and Stan Hansen friendship, Sheik Adnan El Kaissie's heat, poster misspellings and more!   We have a new one stop shop for AWA Unleashed merch, it’s https://www.teepublic.com/user/unleashed-plus