ACT TWO
INT.–CAPITOL ARENA–1961
‘’NATURE BOY’‘ BUDDY ROGERS wrestles in front of thousands of fans who scream for his head, the TV cameras capture every single frame of the match. His bleached blonde hair slick back with a tanned muscular physique had the fans glued to their seat as he beat the shit out of his opponent as play by play commentator RAY MORGAN calls the match.
RAY MORGAN
Rogers gouges his opponents eyes as the referee doesn’t see what’s goin’ on!
The fans boo, and the referee catches him as he pulls his opponent’s hair. Upon which he lets go, and struts before the crowd which causes the girls to cheer for him.
RAY MORGAN (CONTINUED)
Whether the fans love him or hate him, it can’t be denied that the Nature Boy is the consummate performer!
He attacks his opponent’s leg, and he slaps on the figure four leg lock in the middle of the ring. The crowd goes nuts as his opponent gives up, and the referee calls for the bell, and raises Rogers’ hand.
RAY MORGAN (CONTINUED)
He’s got it! He’s got it!
The bell rings.
RAY MORGAN (CONTINUED)
Your winner.......’‘Nature Boy’‘ Buddy Rogers!
INT.–VINCE MCMAHON’S OFFICE–DAY
Buddy Rogers enters the office as Vince and Toots stand there to discuss a certain matter with him.
BUDDY
What’s this all about?
VINCE
Buddy, your our biggest star, the guys hate ya, the girls love ya. How would you like to be the world heavyweight champion?
Buddy’s eyes widen with a big smile.
BUDDY
I’D LOVE IT!
Toots walks up to Buddy.
TOOTS
At the NWA convention later this week, I’ll put up a $25,000 bond for you so that the board can vote on it, and we’ll just see what happens.
Buddy looks as if he’s about to get his hopes up.
VINCE
Don’t get ahead of yourself just yet, we’ll still need the board’s approval
BUDDY
Right.
Buddy still has the big smile on his face as shakes Vince and Toots’ hands.
INT.–HOTEL LOBBY–CHICAGO
Vince and Toots attend The 14th Annual NWA Convention, every wrestling promoter who is a member of the National Wrestling Alliance is in attendance. NWA President FRED KOHLER, a nerd who wears glasses, heads in Vince and Toots’ direction.
FRED
Hi boys!
VINCE
Fred, we were just lookin’ for you!
They all smile and shake hands in a cordial and polite manner.
FRED
Oh, and why is that?
VINCE
As you know, ‘’Nature Boy’‘ Buddy Rogers is now our territory’s top star.
FRED
Uh Huh.
TOOTS
Well, we’d like to sponsor him as a candidate to be the new world champ.
Toots pulls out a check for $25,000, and hands it Fred.
FRED
Alright, I’ll make it an issue before the board.
They all shake hands once again before they go their separate ways.
INT.–HOTEL BALLROOM–LATER THAT NIGHT
All the various promoters in the National Wrestling Alliance dance with very loose and drunk women who all want sex to the sound of an old standard jazz tune when Fred Kohler comes up on stage and takes his place in front of the microphone to make an announce.
FRED
May I have your attention please?
The music stops and the promoters shift their focus from the women to Fred.
FRED (CONTINUED)
NWA members Vince McMahon and Toots Mondt, who promote and book the Capitol Wrestling Corporation on the Eastern Seaboard have put up a sponsorship fee for ‘’Nature Boy’‘ Buddy Rogers to become our new world heavyweight champion.
Everyone in the room claps in response to the announcement.
FRED (CONTINUED)
All in favor of the motion to have our current champion Pat O’Connor drop the belt to Rogers?
The majority of promoters raise their hands.
FRED (CONTINUED)
All opposed?
Very few promoters raise their hands.
FRED (CONTINUED)
Motion granted.
Sounds of cheers surround the ballroom.
FRED (CONTINUED)
Well it’s official, we’re gonna have a new world heavyweight champion.
The cheers continue.
FRED (CONTINUED)
Now since that’s out of the way, let’s resume this dance.
The music starts back, and the promoters once again dance with the women. Vince dances with a very attractive woman.
VINCE
Did you hear that? We get to promote the new world champ!
WOMAN
And now, I find you even sexier because of it.
Vince and the woman kiss each other.
VINCE
Your not the first woman to tell me that.
They both laugh.
WOMAN
Oh your so funny, Vinnie.
INT.–FRED KOHLER’S OFFICE–CHICAGO
Vince, Toots, and Ray Fabiani are Fred’s office over an urgent discussion over a television deal.
FRED
Look, I need you guys to help me out. Eddie Quinn’s tryin’ to compete with me, and his TV gets better numbers than mine and bigger crowds at his shows. If we don’t do somethin’ fast, he’s gonna kill the world title match.
Fred sweats so much, he looks as if he’s at the end of a rope.
FRED (CONTINUED)
I just don’t want that French Canadian piece of shit stealin’ my territory!
VINCE
We might be able to help you out.
Fred gives them a weird look.
FRED
How?
VINCE
Well, TV is how promote the big wrestling shows these days, right? All you need is another promoter get air time on another station to help you beat Quinn.
RAY FABIANI
We may be able to get some TV time here in Chicago, and simulcast the big match between O’Connor and our boy Rogers.
INT.–WMAQ TV STATION–STATION MANAGER’S OFFICE
Vince, Toots, and Fabiani sit there as they try to con the STATION MANAGER into a time slot on his station
STATION MANAGER
So you’re a group of wrestling promoters from the Eastern Seaboard?
FABIANI
That’s right.
The station manager looks confused.
STATION MANAGER
Then what the hell are you doin’ here in Chicago?
VINCE
An outlaw promoter from Montreal, Quebec, Canada is tryin’ to steal business from the resident promoter here in The Windy City, we’re just tryin’ to teach him a lesson.
The station manager crosses his arms.
STATION MANAGER
So what can wrestling offer my station in terms of numbers?
TOOTS
We’re helpin’ the guy here promote a big match for the world heavyweight title at Comiskey Park.
STATION MANAGER
Your got yourself a deal.
They all shake hands with the station manager.
EXT.–COMISKEY PARK–NIGHT
All the promoters in the National Wrestling Alliance sit and watch as Buddy Rogers and the world heavyweight champion PAT O’CONNOR tear each other apart.
FRED
We got a sold out crowd at one of the biggest stadiums in Chicago with a world title match, and I still think Quinn’s puttin’ on better show.
Fred wipes the sweat away from his face and neck with a handkerchief as he watches Eddie Quinn’s rival wrestling show on a video monitor.
VINCE
Don’t worry about that asshole, concentrate on what’s goin’ on here.
TOOTS
Yeah, Quinn ain’t worth it...
Toots pats Fred on the back.
FRED
I guess your right.
TOOTS
I know I am, I’m the greatest booker who ever lived, ya know.
FRED
Yeah, we’ve all heard that about a hundred times.
They all laughed.
FRED
I keep thinkin’ Rogers’ll screw up somewhere.
Vince shakes his head.
VINCE
He’s not gonna screw up, you got the best performer in that very ring right now!
O’Connor looks a little weak as Rogers pounds on him.
VINCE
Well, he sure is gettin’ the job done, I’ll tell ya that.
FRED
I hope he keeps at it.
Rogers slaps the figure four leg lock on O’Connor.
FRED
Take it home Buddy!
O’Connor gives up, and the referee calls for the bell. The referee then raises Buddy Rogers’ hand, and gives him the world heavyweight title. Rogers then grabs the microphone.
BUDDY
To a nicer guy, it couldn’t happen.
The crowd is an uproar with a mixture of cheers and boos.
INT.–FRED KOHLER’S OFFICE–DAY
Vince, Toots, and Faibiani celebrate with Fred over the title match as Toots uncorks a bottle of champagne, and they each pour it in small glasses.
FRED
I just got the numbers from the TV Stations, and our simulcast puttin’ the strap on Rogers blew Eddie Quinn’s ass right out of the water.
The other three men cheer.
VINCE
What about the attendance records?
FRED
Well, it set the biggest attendance record for a wrestling show ever held in the United States!
All four men raise their glasses in a toast.
VINCE
To the wrestling business!
Each of the glasses touch one another.
FRED
Rogers’ll make a damn good champion!
VINCE
You can bet your ass on that.
Vince smiles at Fred.
INT.–VINCE MCMAHON’S OFFICE–A YEAR LATER
Vince and Toots are in the office when they hear a knock at the door. They open the door, and it turns out to be SAM MUSCHNICK and LOU THESZ. Vince and Toots are now scared to death, and put big smiles on their faces to conceal their fear.
VINCE
Sam, I heard the good news about you bein’ named a possible candidate for re-election as President of the National Wrestling Alliance! Congratulations!
Vince’s sweaty palm shakes Sam’s hand.
SAM
Can the bullshit McMahon, we’re here because there’s a little bit of a problem.
Sam and Lou walk into the office, and both take a seat.
TOOTS
What’s wrong?
SAM
Well, a lot of promoters in the Alliance have made complaints that you haven’t sent Buddy their way to give their boys a shot at the world title.
Vince and Toots become a little more nervous.
VINCE
Buddy’s our top draw here, we’re keepin’ him because he’s good for business!
SAM
I’ll tell you what, you have Buddy drop the belt to Lou here, and you can create your own version of the world title with Buddy as champ to business goin’ here.
VINCE
Sounds good to me.
SAM
Frank Tunney’s got the Maple Leaf Garden booked for Buddy to drop the title to Lou.
Vince and Toots’ eyes bug out.
TOOTS
Already?
SAM
Yep.
Vince whispers in Toots’ ear.
VINCE
Well, that was fast.
SAM
We’ll even make it a one fall title match to make it seem as if Buddy got screwed, the marks’ll love it!
Vince and Toots huddle to discuss it.
VINCE
Alright, we’ll do it.
INT.–SAM MUSCHNICK’S OFFICE–ST. LOUIS
Sam and Lou are in the office as they discuss Lou’s match with Buddy Rogers.
LOU
Sam, I get the feelin’ they’re screw us.
SAM
Why is that?
LOU
Toots Mondt screwed me out of a payday back when I started out, and I never trusted Vince McMahon to begin with, although I did have a good relationship with Jess.
Lou takes a deep breath.
LOU (CONTINUED)
And that Buddy Rogers is nothin’ but a smart ass!
SAM
What’s your beef with him?
LOU
I gave him a ride to a show when he was a rookie, and he some offhand remark about my mentor Ed ‘’Strangler’‘ Lewis.
Sam gets up from behind his desk.
SAM
I can’t tell you that there’s nothin’ to worry about, but in spite of it all, just put on the best show you can.
INT.–VINCE MCMAHON’S OFFICE–WASHINGTON D.C.
Vince and Toots are in the office as they discuss the details of the match with Buddy Rogers.
BUDDY
I understand why I have to drop the belt, but why in the hell do I have to drop to Lou Thesz of all people?
Vince takes a sip of coffee.
VINCE
Well, that’s what Sam wanted.
A sense of curiosity sparks in Vince.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
What happened between you and Thesz anyway?
BUDDY
He doesn’t like me because I’m more of a performer than a wrestler.
Toots bursts into laughter.
VINCE
Thesz should know that showmanship is what sells tickets these days, not that greco-roman shit!
BUDDY
Sam should talk about Toots not bookin’ me outside the Northeast since he didn’t book Lou outside of St. Louis. And besides, when’s the last time he sold out The Garden anyway?
INT.–MAPLE LEAF GARDENS–TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA
Lou Thesz and Buddy Rogers struggle in the ring as the fans are in uproar about who will win. The crowd is divided over who they cheer, half cheer for Thesz while the other half cheers for Rogers. Vince, Toots, Sam Muschnick, and Toronto promoter FRANK TUNNEY observe the match.
FRANK
Your boys are doin’ good.
TOOTS
I wonder if the crowd’s gonna riot into a frenzy.
VINCE
That always happens when Buddy’s the star attraction.
SAM
But he isn’t even a tenth of the wrestler Lou is.
Thesz has Rogers in arm bar.
VINCE
God, let’s get this over and done with.
Thesz gets Rogers in a submission hold, and the referee calls for the bell. The referee then hands Thesz the world heavyweight title.
RING ANNOUNCER
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN...YOUR WINNER...AND NEW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION......LOU THESZ!
The crowd cheers.
INT.–VINCE MCMAHON’S OFFICE–DAY
Vince and Toots brainstorm ideas for the new world heavyweight title, but look as if they can’t come up with any good ideas.
VINCE
If we’re gonna have our own world title, then we need to give the wrestling promotion a new name that gives the marks the impression that we have worldwide appeal.
Toots is very quiet as he listens to Vince.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
Also, the name needs to be make marks believe that we’re a separate body from the National Wrestling Alliance.
Toots writes on a notepad.
TOOTS
How about this?
Toots holds the notepad up to Vince, and it reads WORLD WIDE WRESTLING FEDERATION.
VINCE
Toots! Your brilliant!
Vince gives Toots a big wet kiss on the cheek!
TOOTS
Vinnie, you don’t have to get so mushy!
VINCE
Wait a minute, how in the hell are we
gonna explain how Buddy won the new title?
TOOTS
I have an idea.
INT.–WWOR TV STUDIOS–NEW YORK
The cameras tape a segment with announcer Ray Morgan.
RAY MORGAN
The main event at Madison Square Garden will be for the brand new world heavyweight title sanctioned by the World Wide Wrestling Federation.
Roy Morgan holds up a photo of ‘’Nature Boy’‘ Buddy Rogers.
RAY MORGAN (CONTINUED)
The first man to hold this brand new title none other than ‘’Nature Boy’‘ Buddy Rogers. He won the title in the finals of tournament held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
He puts the photo of Rogers down, and holds up the photo of a brand new star who has garnered a lot of attention in the last few years.
RAY MORGAN (CONTINUED)
He will defend his title against ‘’The Italian Strongman’‘ Bruno Sammartino.
He puts down the photo of Bruno Sammartino as he gets ready to address the home viewers.
RAY MORGAN (CONTINUED)
We hope you’ll join us for another night at The Garden.
INT.–GYM–DAY
BRUNO SAMMARTINO lifts weights as he is surrounded some female admirers and a few little kids who want his autograph.
LITTLE KID
Can you sign my notepad?
Bruno puts down the weights.
BRUNO
Sure.
He signs the kid’s autograph book.
FEMALE ADMIRER
Let me feel those muscles.
The female admirer feels his biceps.
FEMALE ADMIRER (CONTINUED)
Oooooooooooooh!
Vince and Toots enter the gym.
BRUNO
Could you guys excuse me for a minute?
Bruno leaves the woman and the kids to talk with Vince and Toots.
VINCE
Ready for the title?
BRUNO
Yep. Who’s goin’ over, me or Buddy?
TOOTS
Buddy’ll keep the title, but the match’ll start a big feud that’ll lead to you becomin’ our top baby face.
Bruno nods his head.
VINCE
This is gonna go over big Bruno!
BRUNO
I hope so. You think the marks would accept a new world title rather the NWA’s version?
Toots has a twinkle in his eye.
TOOTS
You and Buddy are so over they wouldn’t care which world title we’d use.
Bruno is a little shaken by Toots’ remark.
BRUNO
Are you sure about that?
TOOTS
Of course I am, I’m the one who made wrestling what it is today.
Bruno looks a little skeptical as he ponders that comment.
BRUNO
Is any of that true Vinnie?
VINCE
He’s been in wrestling since the old carnie days, so I wouldn’t put it past him.
They all share a laugh.
BRUNO
You guys have been great, givin’ a little boy from Italy an opportunity to shine here in America.
VINCE
Glad we could help, Bruno.
Vince pats him on the shoulder, and he and Toots make conversation behind Bruno’s back.
VINCE
That so called ‘’Italian Strongman’‘ will just be some mid-carder for 2 or 3 years, and that’ll be it.
Toots is shocked by what Vince has just said.
TOOTS
Vince.....he’s gonna the future of wrestling one day.
Vince crosses his arms.
TOOTS (CONTINUED)
I’m serious Vinnie, he’s gonna be a big star!
VINCE
Marks like flamboyant performers, not ethnic bodybuilders.
TOOTS
Whatever you say, but you know that I’m always right in the end.
INT.–THE LOCKER ROOM–A FEW NIGHTS BEFORE THE MATCH
Buddy Rogers does squats in preparation for a title defense, but clutches his chest. The rest of the boys in the locker room rush over to help him.
WRESTLER
You ok Buddy?
Buddy gasps for air.
BUDDY
Yeah, I guess.
Another wrestler bolts out the door to get someone.
THE OTHER WRESTLER
Get a doctor!
The person looks alarmed.
PERSON
What’s the matter?
THE OTHER WRESTLER
Just get one now!
That person runs to get a doctor.
FIRST WRESTLER
Here, drink this.
The first wrestler hands Buddy a cup of water.
SOME OTHER WRESTLER
You alright?
INT.–DOCTOR’S OFFICE–DAY
DR. PAUL SULLIVAN presses a stethoscope against Buddy’s bare chest, Vince and Toots stand there as they awaits the results.
VINCE
Let’s hear it.
PAUL
I found nothin’ abnormal about his heart.
Paul turns to Buddy.
PAUL (CONTINUED)
Still havin’ chest pains?
BUDDY
Yeah.
Paul turns back to Vince and Toots.
VINCE
He ain’t fakin’ it, everyone in the locker room saw him have an attack.
TOOTS
Who knows? He may have a mild heart attack.
PAUL
That would explain why I found nothin’ wrong with him.
VINCE
Maybe.
PAUL
Alright, I’ll let him wrestle that Sammartino guy, but make sure it’s a short match. After that, it’s up to the state athletic commission.
INT.–VINCE MCMAHON’S OFFICE–WASHINGTON D.C.
Vince and Toots discuss with Bruno what happened to Buddy and how it’s gonna affect the match.
BRUNO
So I’m gettin’ the title?
Toots sips some whiskey.
TOOTS
Just a change of plans.
BRUNO
What happened?
VINCE
Buddy had a mild heart attack in the locker room before a match, and now we’re gonna have to cut your match with him a little short.
Bruno looks a little shocked.
BRUNO
What about after the match? Is Buddy still gonna be able to wrestle?
VINCE
We don’t know, that’s up to the guys at the athletic commission.
BRUNO
Man, how’s Buddy doin’?
TOOTS
Still havin’ chest pains as far as we know.
INT.–MADISON SQUARE GARDEN–NEW YORK
The bell rings as Buddy Rogers and Bruno Sammartino get ready for their match as Vince and Toots stand there near the crowd.
VINCE
I hope Buddy doesn’t give out on us.
Vince and Toots are both a little nervous.
TOOTS
Me too.
Vince spots someone from the state athletic commission.
VINCE
Oh shit!
TOOTS
What?
Vince points Toots in the direction of the guy from the state athletic commission.
TOOTS (CONTINUED)
Well, don’t let em know your nervous.
Vince starts to sweat.
TOOTS (CONTINUED)
Here....
Toots hands him a handkerchief, and he wipes the sweat off his forehead.
Meanwhile in the ring, Sammartino gets Rogers in a bear hug. Rogers gives up right then, and the referee calls for the bell. He gives Sammartino the world heavyweight title as the crowd cheers.
INT.–MADISON SQUARE GARDEN–BACKSTAGE AREA
Various news media interview Bruno after the big match, it’s a frenzy with hordes of people who wanna speak with the new world heavyweight champion.
REPORTER
How does it feel to beat Buddy Rogers for the world title?
BRUNO
It felt great.
A female reporter raises her hand.
FEMALE REPORTER
What do you plan to do now that you’ve won the title?
Bruno looks confused and laughs.
BRUNO
Go to Little Italy and celebrate with the people I love.
The various reports clap as Vince and Toots watch from behind the curtain.
VINCE
Well, he sure knows how to kayfabe the press.
TOOTS
That’s because he’s a natural.
VINCE
Yeah, sure is.
INT.–VINCE MCMAHON’S OFFICE–1982
Vince and his son VINCENT KENNEDY MCMAHON, a dark haired man almost 40 years old who look very business smart, discuss the future of the wrestling promotion.
VINCE
I wanna let go out of the business Vinnie.
The younger Vince is a little saddened by the news.
VINNIE
Why?
VINCE
I got a call from the doctor, and I found out I’ve got cancer.
Vinnie fights back tears.
VINNIE
How bad is it?
VINCE
He said I’d live a couple more years, but that’s it.
VINNIE
What’s gonna happen to our business Dad?
VINCE
I think it’s time for you to have a shot at it, you’ve done such a good job as an announcer, bookin’ and promotin’ the smaller town, and with the rock concerts and hockey games, it’s time for you to take over.
Vinnie seems overjoyed.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
But your gonna have to earn it, your gonna be payin’ for it in installments. Miss one psyment, and the promotion is goin’ to somebody else.
Vinnie nods.
VINNIE
I understand.
Vinnie gets ready to exit the office.
VINCE
Oh and Vinnie?
Vinnie turns his head.
VINNIE
Yeah?
VINCE
I’m countin’ on you.
Vinnie leaves the office.
MAN
We overheard the conversation.
The man turns out to be ROBERT MARELLA, who stands in the doorway along with ARNOLD SKAALAND, and PHIL ZACKO.
MARELLA (CONTINUED)
Your handin’ the promoter over to Vinnie?
VINCE
Is that a problem?
Marella straightens his blue tinted glasses.
MARELLA
Just because he’s your son doesn’t mean he’s gonna be a good promoter.
VINCE
He’s proven himself and I believe he’s ready.
SKAALAND
On a small scale? Yes. On a large scale? No.
Zacko licks his lips.
ZACKO
Look, maybe you should hand the operation over to someone who has more experience in the business.
Vince looks a little pissed.
VINCE
I have faith in Vinnie, he may have lot to learn, but I think he can get the job done.
MARELLA
Fair enough.
Vince seems a little agitated.
VINCE
Don’t you three have to book some towns?
MARELLA
Look Vince, we’re just wanna do what’s best for business.
VINCE
I know.
Marella, Skaaland, and Zacko all look at each other.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
But I stand by my decision.
SKAALAND
Understood.
Zacko looks Vince in the eye.
ZACKO
We just hope you know what your doin’.
Vince grows more angry.
VINCE
I know what I’m doin’, and don’t you ever question my judgement again.
ZACKO
OK OK OK........calm down!
VINCE
Get the hell outta my office, alright?
The three of them exit the office.
MORELLA
I don’t know whether or it’s the mood swings from the cancer treatments or what.
Vince holds a picture of his father Jess in his hand.
VINCE
I just don’t what I’m gonna do Pop, I just don’t know.
Tears stream down Vince’s face.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
I’ve decided to hand over the business to Vinnie, but the shareholders in the promotion don’t have much faith in him.
Vince holds his head up in disbelief.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
I don’t care what they say, I’m givin’ the promotion to Vinnie, he’s earned it.
Vince has a humble look on his face.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
Thanks for listenin’ Pop.
Vince gets up from his desk.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
I miss you so much.
(beat)
I guess I’ll be with ya soon.
Vince walks over to the door.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
Good night Pop.
Vince turns the lights off, and shuts the office door.
‘’NATURE BOY’‘ BUDDY ROGERS wrestles in front of thousands of fans who scream for his head, the TV cameras capture every single frame of the match. His bleached blonde hair slick back with a tanned muscular physique had the fans glued to their seat as he beat the shit out of his opponent as play by play commentator RAY MORGAN calls the match.
RAY MORGAN
Rogers gouges his opponents eyes as the referee doesn’t see what’s goin’ on!
The fans boo, and the referee catches him as he pulls his opponent’s hair. Upon which he lets go, and struts before the crowd which causes the girls to cheer for him.
RAY MORGAN (CONTINUED)
Whether the fans love him or hate him, it can’t be denied that the Nature Boy is the consummate performer!
He attacks his opponent’s leg, and he slaps on the figure four leg lock in the middle of the ring. The crowd goes nuts as his opponent gives up, and the referee calls for the bell, and raises Rogers’ hand.
RAY MORGAN (CONTINUED)
He’s got it! He’s got it!
The bell rings.
RAY MORGAN (CONTINUED)
Your winner.......’‘Nature Boy’‘ Buddy Rogers!
INT.–VINCE MCMAHON’S OFFICE–DAY
Buddy Rogers enters the office as Vince and Toots stand there to discuss a certain matter with him.
BUDDY
What’s this all about?
VINCE
Buddy, your our biggest star, the guys hate ya, the girls love ya. How would you like to be the world heavyweight champion?
Buddy’s eyes widen with a big smile.
BUDDY
I’D LOVE IT!
Toots walks up to Buddy.
TOOTS
At the NWA convention later this week, I’ll put up a $25,000 bond for you so that the board can vote on it, and we’ll just see what happens.
Buddy looks as if he’s about to get his hopes up.
VINCE
Don’t get ahead of yourself just yet, we’ll still need the board’s approval
BUDDY
Right.
Buddy still has the big smile on his face as shakes Vince and Toots’ hands.
INT.–HOTEL LOBBY–CHICAGO
Vince and Toots attend The 14th Annual NWA Convention, every wrestling promoter who is a member of the National Wrestling Alliance is in attendance. NWA President FRED KOHLER, a nerd who wears glasses, heads in Vince and Toots’ direction.
FRED
Hi boys!
VINCE
Fred, we were just lookin’ for you!
They all smile and shake hands in a cordial and polite manner.
FRED
Oh, and why is that?
VINCE
As you know, ‘’Nature Boy’‘ Buddy Rogers is now our territory’s top star.
FRED
Uh Huh.
TOOTS
Well, we’d like to sponsor him as a candidate to be the new world champ.
Toots pulls out a check for $25,000, and hands it Fred.
FRED
Alright, I’ll make it an issue before the board.
They all shake hands once again before they go their separate ways.
INT.–HOTEL BALLROOM–LATER THAT NIGHT
All the various promoters in the National Wrestling Alliance dance with very loose and drunk women who all want sex to the sound of an old standard jazz tune when Fred Kohler comes up on stage and takes his place in front of the microphone to make an announce.
FRED
May I have your attention please?
The music stops and the promoters shift their focus from the women to Fred.
FRED (CONTINUED)
NWA members Vince McMahon and Toots Mondt, who promote and book the Capitol Wrestling Corporation on the Eastern Seaboard have put up a sponsorship fee for ‘’Nature Boy’‘ Buddy Rogers to become our new world heavyweight champion.
Everyone in the room claps in response to the announcement.
FRED (CONTINUED)
All in favor of the motion to have our current champion Pat O’Connor drop the belt to Rogers?
The majority of promoters raise their hands.
FRED (CONTINUED)
All opposed?
Very few promoters raise their hands.
FRED (CONTINUED)
Motion granted.
Sounds of cheers surround the ballroom.
FRED (CONTINUED)
Well it’s official, we’re gonna have a new world heavyweight champion.
The cheers continue.
FRED (CONTINUED)
Now since that’s out of the way, let’s resume this dance.
The music starts back, and the promoters once again dance with the women. Vince dances with a very attractive woman.
VINCE
Did you hear that? We get to promote the new world champ!
WOMAN
And now, I find you even sexier because of it.
Vince and the woman kiss each other.
VINCE
Your not the first woman to tell me that.
They both laugh.
WOMAN
Oh your so funny, Vinnie.
INT.–FRED KOHLER’S OFFICE–CHICAGO
Vince, Toots, and Ray Fabiani are Fred’s office over an urgent discussion over a television deal.
FRED
Look, I need you guys to help me out. Eddie Quinn’s tryin’ to compete with me, and his TV gets better numbers than mine and bigger crowds at his shows. If we don’t do somethin’ fast, he’s gonna kill the world title match.
Fred sweats so much, he looks as if he’s at the end of a rope.
FRED (CONTINUED)
I just don’t want that French Canadian piece of shit stealin’ my territory!
VINCE
We might be able to help you out.
Fred gives them a weird look.
FRED
How?
VINCE
Well, TV is how promote the big wrestling shows these days, right? All you need is another promoter get air time on another station to help you beat Quinn.
RAY FABIANI
We may be able to get some TV time here in Chicago, and simulcast the big match between O’Connor and our boy Rogers.
INT.–WMAQ TV STATION–STATION MANAGER’S OFFICE
Vince, Toots, and Fabiani sit there as they try to con the STATION MANAGER into a time slot on his station
STATION MANAGER
So you’re a group of wrestling promoters from the Eastern Seaboard?
FABIANI
That’s right.
The station manager looks confused.
STATION MANAGER
Then what the hell are you doin’ here in Chicago?
VINCE
An outlaw promoter from Montreal, Quebec, Canada is tryin’ to steal business from the resident promoter here in The Windy City, we’re just tryin’ to teach him a lesson.
The station manager crosses his arms.
STATION MANAGER
So what can wrestling offer my station in terms of numbers?
TOOTS
We’re helpin’ the guy here promote a big match for the world heavyweight title at Comiskey Park.
STATION MANAGER
Your got yourself a deal.
They all shake hands with the station manager.
EXT.–COMISKEY PARK–NIGHT
All the promoters in the National Wrestling Alliance sit and watch as Buddy Rogers and the world heavyweight champion PAT O’CONNOR tear each other apart.
FRED
We got a sold out crowd at one of the biggest stadiums in Chicago with a world title match, and I still think Quinn’s puttin’ on better show.
Fred wipes the sweat away from his face and neck with a handkerchief as he watches Eddie Quinn’s rival wrestling show on a video monitor.
VINCE
Don’t worry about that asshole, concentrate on what’s goin’ on here.
TOOTS
Yeah, Quinn ain’t worth it...
Toots pats Fred on the back.
FRED
I guess your right.
TOOTS
I know I am, I’m the greatest booker who ever lived, ya know.
FRED
Yeah, we’ve all heard that about a hundred times.
They all laughed.
FRED
I keep thinkin’ Rogers’ll screw up somewhere.
Vince shakes his head.
VINCE
He’s not gonna screw up, you got the best performer in that very ring right now!
O’Connor looks a little weak as Rogers pounds on him.
VINCE
Well, he sure is gettin’ the job done, I’ll tell ya that.
FRED
I hope he keeps at it.
Rogers slaps the figure four leg lock on O’Connor.
FRED
Take it home Buddy!
O’Connor gives up, and the referee calls for the bell. The referee then raises Buddy Rogers’ hand, and gives him the world heavyweight title. Rogers then grabs the microphone.
BUDDY
To a nicer guy, it couldn’t happen.
The crowd is an uproar with a mixture of cheers and boos.
INT.–FRED KOHLER’S OFFICE–DAY
Vince, Toots, and Faibiani celebrate with Fred over the title match as Toots uncorks a bottle of champagne, and they each pour it in small glasses.
FRED
I just got the numbers from the TV Stations, and our simulcast puttin’ the strap on Rogers blew Eddie Quinn’s ass right out of the water.
The other three men cheer.
VINCE
What about the attendance records?
FRED
Well, it set the biggest attendance record for a wrestling show ever held in the United States!
All four men raise their glasses in a toast.
VINCE
To the wrestling business!
Each of the glasses touch one another.
FRED
Rogers’ll make a damn good champion!
VINCE
You can bet your ass on that.
Vince smiles at Fred.
INT.–VINCE MCMAHON’S OFFICE–A YEAR LATER
Vince and Toots are in the office when they hear a knock at the door. They open the door, and it turns out to be SAM MUSCHNICK and LOU THESZ. Vince and Toots are now scared to death, and put big smiles on their faces to conceal their fear.
VINCE
Sam, I heard the good news about you bein’ named a possible candidate for re-election as President of the National Wrestling Alliance! Congratulations!
Vince’s sweaty palm shakes Sam’s hand.
SAM
Can the bullshit McMahon, we’re here because there’s a little bit of a problem.
Sam and Lou walk into the office, and both take a seat.
TOOTS
What’s wrong?
SAM
Well, a lot of promoters in the Alliance have made complaints that you haven’t sent Buddy their way to give their boys a shot at the world title.
Vince and Toots become a little more nervous.
VINCE
Buddy’s our top draw here, we’re keepin’ him because he’s good for business!
SAM
I’ll tell you what, you have Buddy drop the belt to Lou here, and you can create your own version of the world title with Buddy as champ to business goin’ here.
VINCE
Sounds good to me.
SAM
Frank Tunney’s got the Maple Leaf Garden booked for Buddy to drop the title to Lou.
Vince and Toots’ eyes bug out.
TOOTS
Already?
SAM
Yep.
Vince whispers in Toots’ ear.
VINCE
Well, that was fast.
SAM
We’ll even make it a one fall title match to make it seem as if Buddy got screwed, the marks’ll love it!
Vince and Toots huddle to discuss it.
VINCE
Alright, we’ll do it.
INT.–SAM MUSCHNICK’S OFFICE–ST. LOUIS
Sam and Lou are in the office as they discuss Lou’s match with Buddy Rogers.
LOU
Sam, I get the feelin’ they’re screw us.
SAM
Why is that?
LOU
Toots Mondt screwed me out of a payday back when I started out, and I never trusted Vince McMahon to begin with, although I did have a good relationship with Jess.
Lou takes a deep breath.
LOU (CONTINUED)
And that Buddy Rogers is nothin’ but a smart ass!
SAM
What’s your beef with him?
LOU
I gave him a ride to a show when he was a rookie, and he some offhand remark about my mentor Ed ‘’Strangler’‘ Lewis.
Sam gets up from behind his desk.
SAM
I can’t tell you that there’s nothin’ to worry about, but in spite of it all, just put on the best show you can.
INT.–VINCE MCMAHON’S OFFICE–WASHINGTON D.C.
Vince and Toots are in the office as they discuss the details of the match with Buddy Rogers.
BUDDY
I understand why I have to drop the belt, but why in the hell do I have to drop to Lou Thesz of all people?
Vince takes a sip of coffee.
VINCE
Well, that’s what Sam wanted.
A sense of curiosity sparks in Vince.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
What happened between you and Thesz anyway?
BUDDY
He doesn’t like me because I’m more of a performer than a wrestler.
Toots bursts into laughter.
VINCE
Thesz should know that showmanship is what sells tickets these days, not that greco-roman shit!
BUDDY
Sam should talk about Toots not bookin’ me outside the Northeast since he didn’t book Lou outside of St. Louis. And besides, when’s the last time he sold out The Garden anyway?
INT.–MAPLE LEAF GARDENS–TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA
Lou Thesz and Buddy Rogers struggle in the ring as the fans are in uproar about who will win. The crowd is divided over who they cheer, half cheer for Thesz while the other half cheers for Rogers. Vince, Toots, Sam Muschnick, and Toronto promoter FRANK TUNNEY observe the match.
FRANK
Your boys are doin’ good.
TOOTS
I wonder if the crowd’s gonna riot into a frenzy.
VINCE
That always happens when Buddy’s the star attraction.
SAM
But he isn’t even a tenth of the wrestler Lou is.
Thesz has Rogers in arm bar.
VINCE
God, let’s get this over and done with.
Thesz gets Rogers in a submission hold, and the referee calls for the bell. The referee then hands Thesz the world heavyweight title.
RING ANNOUNCER
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN...YOUR WINNER...AND NEW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION......LOU THESZ!
The crowd cheers.
INT.–VINCE MCMAHON’S OFFICE–DAY
Vince and Toots brainstorm ideas for the new world heavyweight title, but look as if they can’t come up with any good ideas.
VINCE
If we’re gonna have our own world title, then we need to give the wrestling promotion a new name that gives the marks the impression that we have worldwide appeal.
Toots is very quiet as he listens to Vince.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
Also, the name needs to be make marks believe that we’re a separate body from the National Wrestling Alliance.
Toots writes on a notepad.
TOOTS
How about this?
Toots holds the notepad up to Vince, and it reads WORLD WIDE WRESTLING FEDERATION.
VINCE
Toots! Your brilliant!
Vince gives Toots a big wet kiss on the cheek!
TOOTS
Vinnie, you don’t have to get so mushy!
VINCE
Wait a minute, how in the hell are we
gonna explain how Buddy won the new title?
TOOTS
I have an idea.
INT.–WWOR TV STUDIOS–NEW YORK
The cameras tape a segment with announcer Ray Morgan.
RAY MORGAN
The main event at Madison Square Garden will be for the brand new world heavyweight title sanctioned by the World Wide Wrestling Federation.
Roy Morgan holds up a photo of ‘’Nature Boy’‘ Buddy Rogers.
RAY MORGAN (CONTINUED)
The first man to hold this brand new title none other than ‘’Nature Boy’‘ Buddy Rogers. He won the title in the finals of tournament held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
He puts the photo of Rogers down, and holds up the photo of a brand new star who has garnered a lot of attention in the last few years.
RAY MORGAN (CONTINUED)
He will defend his title against ‘’The Italian Strongman’‘ Bruno Sammartino.
He puts down the photo of Bruno Sammartino as he gets ready to address the home viewers.
RAY MORGAN (CONTINUED)
We hope you’ll join us for another night at The Garden.
INT.–GYM–DAY
BRUNO SAMMARTINO lifts weights as he is surrounded some female admirers and a few little kids who want his autograph.
LITTLE KID
Can you sign my notepad?
Bruno puts down the weights.
BRUNO
Sure.
He signs the kid’s autograph book.
FEMALE ADMIRER
Let me feel those muscles.
The female admirer feels his biceps.
FEMALE ADMIRER (CONTINUED)
Oooooooooooooh!
Vince and Toots enter the gym.
BRUNO
Could you guys excuse me for a minute?
Bruno leaves the woman and the kids to talk with Vince and Toots.
VINCE
Ready for the title?
BRUNO
Yep. Who’s goin’ over, me or Buddy?
TOOTS
Buddy’ll keep the title, but the match’ll start a big feud that’ll lead to you becomin’ our top baby face.
Bruno nods his head.
VINCE
This is gonna go over big Bruno!
BRUNO
I hope so. You think the marks would accept a new world title rather the NWA’s version?
Toots has a twinkle in his eye.
TOOTS
You and Buddy are so over they wouldn’t care which world title we’d use.
Bruno is a little shaken by Toots’ remark.
BRUNO
Are you sure about that?
TOOTS
Of course I am, I’m the one who made wrestling what it is today.
Bruno looks a little skeptical as he ponders that comment.
BRUNO
Is any of that true Vinnie?
VINCE
He’s been in wrestling since the old carnie days, so I wouldn’t put it past him.
They all share a laugh.
BRUNO
You guys have been great, givin’ a little boy from Italy an opportunity to shine here in America.
VINCE
Glad we could help, Bruno.
Vince pats him on the shoulder, and he and Toots make conversation behind Bruno’s back.
VINCE
That so called ‘’Italian Strongman’‘ will just be some mid-carder for 2 or 3 years, and that’ll be it.
Toots is shocked by what Vince has just said.
TOOTS
Vince.....he’s gonna the future of wrestling one day.
Vince crosses his arms.
TOOTS (CONTINUED)
I’m serious Vinnie, he’s gonna be a big star!
VINCE
Marks like flamboyant performers, not ethnic bodybuilders.
TOOTS
Whatever you say, but you know that I’m always right in the end.
INT.–THE LOCKER ROOM–A FEW NIGHTS BEFORE THE MATCH
Buddy Rogers does squats in preparation for a title defense, but clutches his chest. The rest of the boys in the locker room rush over to help him.
WRESTLER
You ok Buddy?
Buddy gasps for air.
BUDDY
Yeah, I guess.
Another wrestler bolts out the door to get someone.
THE OTHER WRESTLER
Get a doctor!
The person looks alarmed.
PERSON
What’s the matter?
THE OTHER WRESTLER
Just get one now!
That person runs to get a doctor.
FIRST WRESTLER
Here, drink this.
The first wrestler hands Buddy a cup of water.
SOME OTHER WRESTLER
You alright?
INT.–DOCTOR’S OFFICE–DAY
DR. PAUL SULLIVAN presses a stethoscope against Buddy’s bare chest, Vince and Toots stand there as they awaits the results.
VINCE
Let’s hear it.
PAUL
I found nothin’ abnormal about his heart.
Paul turns to Buddy.
PAUL (CONTINUED)
Still havin’ chest pains?
BUDDY
Yeah.
Paul turns back to Vince and Toots.
VINCE
He ain’t fakin’ it, everyone in the locker room saw him have an attack.
TOOTS
Who knows? He may have a mild heart attack.
PAUL
That would explain why I found nothin’ wrong with him.
VINCE
Maybe.
PAUL
Alright, I’ll let him wrestle that Sammartino guy, but make sure it’s a short match. After that, it’s up to the state athletic commission.
INT.–VINCE MCMAHON’S OFFICE–WASHINGTON D.C.
Vince and Toots discuss with Bruno what happened to Buddy and how it’s gonna affect the match.
BRUNO
So I’m gettin’ the title?
Toots sips some whiskey.
TOOTS
Just a change of plans.
BRUNO
What happened?
VINCE
Buddy had a mild heart attack in the locker room before a match, and now we’re gonna have to cut your match with him a little short.
Bruno looks a little shocked.
BRUNO
What about after the match? Is Buddy still gonna be able to wrestle?
VINCE
We don’t know, that’s up to the guys at the athletic commission.
BRUNO
Man, how’s Buddy doin’?
TOOTS
Still havin’ chest pains as far as we know.
INT.–MADISON SQUARE GARDEN–NEW YORK
The bell rings as Buddy Rogers and Bruno Sammartino get ready for their match as Vince and Toots stand there near the crowd.
VINCE
I hope Buddy doesn’t give out on us.
Vince and Toots are both a little nervous.
TOOTS
Me too.
Vince spots someone from the state athletic commission.
VINCE
Oh shit!
TOOTS
What?
Vince points Toots in the direction of the guy from the state athletic commission.
TOOTS (CONTINUED)
Well, don’t let em know your nervous.
Vince starts to sweat.
TOOTS (CONTINUED)
Here....
Toots hands him a handkerchief, and he wipes the sweat off his forehead.
Meanwhile in the ring, Sammartino gets Rogers in a bear hug. Rogers gives up right then, and the referee calls for the bell. He gives Sammartino the world heavyweight title as the crowd cheers.
INT.–MADISON SQUARE GARDEN–BACKSTAGE AREA
Various news media interview Bruno after the big match, it’s a frenzy with hordes of people who wanna speak with the new world heavyweight champion.
REPORTER
How does it feel to beat Buddy Rogers for the world title?
BRUNO
It felt great.
A female reporter raises her hand.
FEMALE REPORTER
What do you plan to do now that you’ve won the title?
Bruno looks confused and laughs.
BRUNO
Go to Little Italy and celebrate with the people I love.
The various reports clap as Vince and Toots watch from behind the curtain.
VINCE
Well, he sure knows how to kayfabe the press.
TOOTS
That’s because he’s a natural.
VINCE
Yeah, sure is.
INT.–VINCE MCMAHON’S OFFICE–1982
Vince and his son VINCENT KENNEDY MCMAHON, a dark haired man almost 40 years old who look very business smart, discuss the future of the wrestling promotion.
VINCE
I wanna let go out of the business Vinnie.
The younger Vince is a little saddened by the news.
VINNIE
Why?
VINCE
I got a call from the doctor, and I found out I’ve got cancer.
Vinnie fights back tears.
VINNIE
How bad is it?
VINCE
He said I’d live a couple more years, but that’s it.
VINNIE
What’s gonna happen to our business Dad?
VINCE
I think it’s time for you to have a shot at it, you’ve done such a good job as an announcer, bookin’ and promotin’ the smaller town, and with the rock concerts and hockey games, it’s time for you to take over.
Vinnie seems overjoyed.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
But your gonna have to earn it, your gonna be payin’ for it in installments. Miss one psyment, and the promotion is goin’ to somebody else.
Vinnie nods.
VINNIE
I understand.
Vinnie gets ready to exit the office.
VINCE
Oh and Vinnie?
Vinnie turns his head.
VINNIE
Yeah?
VINCE
I’m countin’ on you.
Vinnie leaves the office.
MAN
We overheard the conversation.
The man turns out to be ROBERT MARELLA, who stands in the doorway along with ARNOLD SKAALAND, and PHIL ZACKO.
MARELLA (CONTINUED)
Your handin’ the promoter over to Vinnie?
VINCE
Is that a problem?
Marella straightens his blue tinted glasses.
MARELLA
Just because he’s your son doesn’t mean he’s gonna be a good promoter.
VINCE
He’s proven himself and I believe he’s ready.
SKAALAND
On a small scale? Yes. On a large scale? No.
Zacko licks his lips.
ZACKO
Look, maybe you should hand the operation over to someone who has more experience in the business.
Vince looks a little pissed.
VINCE
I have faith in Vinnie, he may have lot to learn, but I think he can get the job done.
MARELLA
Fair enough.
Vince seems a little agitated.
VINCE
Don’t you three have to book some towns?
MARELLA
Look Vince, we’re just wanna do what’s best for business.
VINCE
I know.
Marella, Skaaland, and Zacko all look at each other.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
But I stand by my decision.
SKAALAND
Understood.
Zacko looks Vince in the eye.
ZACKO
We just hope you know what your doin’.
Vince grows more angry.
VINCE
I know what I’m doin’, and don’t you ever question my judgement again.
ZACKO
OK OK OK........calm down!
VINCE
Get the hell outta my office, alright?
The three of them exit the office.
MORELLA
I don’t know whether or it’s the mood swings from the cancer treatments or what.
Vince holds a picture of his father Jess in his hand.
VINCE
I just don’t what I’m gonna do Pop, I just don’t know.
Tears stream down Vince’s face.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
I’ve decided to hand over the business to Vinnie, but the shareholders in the promotion don’t have much faith in him.
Vince holds his head up in disbelief.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
I don’t care what they say, I’m givin’ the promotion to Vinnie, he’s earned it.
Vince has a humble look on his face.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
Thanks for listenin’ Pop.
Vince gets up from his desk.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
I miss you so much.
(beat)
I guess I’ll be with ya soon.
Vince walks over to the door.
VINCE (CONTINUED)
Good night Pop.
Vince turns the lights off, and shuts the office door.
posted by Justin Murphy at 9:28 AM
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