Tales from the Territories

Being young and growing up as a kid in the mid 80's I became hooked watching professional wrestling it just thrilled me! As on Saturday and Sunday I would view the local taped syndicated shows of "Mid Atlantic Wrestling" then it would branch off to the "NWA". However I would soon discover that this sport had other lands, and their were different foes and superstars that were exclusive to other states!

"Vice" channel really brings back memories with this new series called "Tales from the Territories" that looks back at the history of smaller wrestling organizations. Featured are round table discussions of old time legends who worked in the particular territory being featured. Plus highlights and old clips of matches give a vintage fan a big rush. It was nice to see the good old days of "Mid South" and the "AWA" a Minnesota and mid western based league that I watched as a kid on "ESPN"! Plus also seeing how big names started in Florida, Canada, and the Pacific Northwest was informative and interesting. Each episode is narrated as it tells of classic historical memories of the bloody squared ring circle. Really a must watch for any old classic wrestling fan who enjoyed it's best times especially during the 1980's when many stars started in state and regional leagues.

While this show pales in comparison to Dark Side Of The Ring in many aspects, there is still much to be appreciated. Bringing former wrestlers, managers and promoters together to do a round table about their territories not only gives the audience great stories, but s real look into the fraternity/sorority of the wrestling world. These are bonds forged in blood, gimmicks, ribs and kayfabe. The only real drawback to the series is the narrator. While this person is apparently an established Podcaster, their narration sounds like someone paid to narrate, not someone who enjoys and respects wrestling. Regardless, it is a series every true wrestling fan should check out.