<font color=deepskyblue>Do any of you remember an incident back in the early 1980's when a professional wrestler attacked a TV reporter who asked him if pro wrestling was all fake? The wrestler became very angry at the question and slapped the man in the side of the head with his open palm. The blow was strong enough to knock the reporter to the ground. When he stood back up, the wrestler hit him again with the other hand, knocking him to the ground a second time. The assault also caused some permanent hearing damage to the reporter, who filed suit against the wrestler and his organization both.

This would have been around 1981-1983 and I've heard that the wrestler in question was either Hulk Hogan or Sid Vicious. Does anybody remember this incident? If so, who was the wreslter - and more importantly - can you tell me where I could find video of the actual interview. Since this was a fairly significant event as wresltling was beginning to experience a new surge of popularity, I would guess the vides HAS to be archived somewhere on the internet.

Any help would be appreciated.</font>

I wish I could help, but I hung up my yellow and purple spandex long ago...

'twas probably just fake anyway :D

Edit: may it be this thingy..?

( http://www.wrestleview.com/info/faq/wwe.shtml )

[ 03-12-2004, 10:15 AM: Message edited by: Gnarf ]

I remember that incident. I have mentioned it to a few people, but nobody else I know ever saw it. I have been trying for years to remember who the wrestler was. Thanks.

I came across this reference, but no video:

Vader was on a Kuwaiti talk show in April of 1997, and when host Bassam Al Otham asked whether or not wrestling was fake, Vader essentially lost control and attacked the host. He was detained in Kuwait briefly following the incident, then was allowed to return to the US pending trial. The end result was a whopping $200 US fine and a proverbial smack on the wrist.

I also found this...

Is there downloadable video footage anywhere on the internet of that 1985 talk show incident where Hulk Hogan accidentally dropped Richard Belzer and busted his head open?

Unfortunately, no. For those unfamiliar with the incident, it occurred on 03/28/85. Hulk Hogan and Mr. T. appeared on Belzer's show "Hot Properties" to promote the first WrestleMania, which was held three nights later. (more)


Don't know if that helps or not...

( http://www.wrestleview.com/info/faq/wwe.shtml ) </font>[/QUOTE]<font color=deepskyblue>That's the one, <font color=plum>Gnarf</font>. I couldn't find any free videos of the incident, but ABC is nice enough to offer the entire 4-part story on VHS and DVD here.... Dr D vs Jon Stossel video

Thanks for your help.</font>

It also happened in Kuwait if i recall during GW1 i believe. Someone.. I can't remember who.. kicked the table aside and shoved the reporter for asking the same question.. I can't recall which wrestler it was.

Was that Vader in 1997? I came across that in my searches.

And that's the bottom line...cause Stone Cold said so !!!