Jim Cornette’s 1982 Memphis Wrestling TV Debut [Videos]

Before becoming one of wrestling’s most outspoken and influential managers, Jim Cornette made his humble on-camera debut on Memphis Wrestling television — a glimpse at the early spark that would shape a legendary career.

Jim Cornette (born September 17, 1961) made his professional wrestling debut at the age of 20, portraying a privileged, arrogant young manager from a wealthy background. Initially presented as a “rich kid” entering the business through family connections and his Mom's money, Cornette quickly became known for his sharp wit, articulate promos, and deep understanding of wrestling psychology.

Revisit Jim Cornette’s first television appearance — the moment that introduced one of wrestling’s most passionate and influential voices to the world.

Memphis Wrestling

Saturday, August 21, 1982

Though brief and modest in production, this television debut contains the genesis of Cornette’s voice in pro wrestling. It introduces the early stages of his managerial persona, the mic presence, and the stylistic seeds that would grow into decades of influence. From Memphis to national platforms, the trajectory started in 1982.

Memphis Wrestling

Saturday, August 28, 1982

Commentators: Lance Russell and Jimmy Cornett

NBC Sportsworld: A Look at Professional Wrestling in 1985 [Videos]

Bob Costas hosted the NBC Sportsworld television program's profile on professional wrestling in 1985, which included interviews with Vince McMahon from the World Wrestling Federation and Jerry Lawler with Memphis Wrestling.

Famous Debut: Mark Calaway - June 26, 1987 [Video]

 

The future WWE Hall of Famer, The Undertaker (Mark Calaway) made his humble professional wrestling debut as Texas Red in World Class Championship Wrestling in a losing effort to future WWE Hall of Famer Legacy Inductee Bruiser Brody on June 26, 1987, in Dallas, Texas. Calaway would wrestle for the next 33 years with 30 of those years in the WWF/WWE as The Undertaker.

Texas Red vs Bruiser Brody

World Class Championship Wrestling

Filmed on Friday, June 26, 1987

Aired on Saturday, July 11, 1987

Dallas, Texas

Bonus Debut

Master of Pain vs Rodney Napper

Continental Wrestling Alliance Memphis

February 12, 1989

Bonus WWF Superstars of Wrestling Debut

The Undertaker vs Mario Mancini

Filmed on November 19, 1990

Aired on December 15, 1990

Rochester, New York

Commentary Team for the Undertaker's first TV match