It Was Almost Real: The Pro Wrestling History Podcast

In this St. Louis-centric episode, I discuss Jim Londos wrestling Dan Kolov (Koloff) on one of the early John Contos-Tom Packs cards in 1923. I also discuss WWF trying to capitalize on St. Louis history in 1986.

In this episode, I discuss the early matches of longtime St. Joseph, Missouri wrestling promoter Gust Karras. I also review two of Karras' cards.

In this episode, I discuss the May 28, 1910 in St. Louis, Missouri between Stanislaus Zbyszko and Charley Olson. I also review the Netflix documentary on Hulk Hogan.

In this episode, I discussed the lessons I learned writing Scufflers, Shooters, and Workers: Pioneer Wrestlers of the 19th Century, Vol. 1. I also discuss Sam Muchnick establishing Ted DiBiase as a main event wrestler from 1978 to 1980.

In this episode, I discuss a March 1901 match between Frank Gotch and Oscar Wasem in Burlington, Iowa. I also review a World Class Championship Wrestling show from May 1983.

In this episode, we discuss a horrible contest between Clarence Whistler and Duncan C. Ross in November 1881. I also review a WWF card from November 1986 in St. Louis that my cousin Dan and I attended.

In this episode, we discuss Stanislaus Zbyszko finally winning the world title in 1921. I also review a Fred Kohler Chicago card from 1936.

In this episode, I discuss two early supercards in 1911 and 1934. I also review Wrestlemania III, WWF's biggest show of the national expansion.

In this episode, I discuss the match between James E. Owens, who had a claim to the American Collar-and-Elbow Wrestling Championship, and his first cousin, the powerful John McMahon. I also review Championship Wrestling from Florida on May 16, 1984.

In this episode, I discuss short title reigns that made the champions look like fluke champions. I also review 2026 AAA Rey de Reyes Tournament card.