On a recent edition of the “Stories With Brisco & Bradshaw” podcast, Mike Rotunda recalled working the inaugural WrestleMania event in 1985, where he and his U.S. Express tag team partner Barry Windham lost the tag team titles to The Iron Sheik and Nikolai Volkoff.
You can check out some highlights from the podcast below:
On The U.S. Express working the first WrestleMania: “It was exciting … I started [in the business] at the end of 1981 and now it’s 1984 and I’m in New York because at the time … there was like, the Carolinas, the Gagnes out in Minneapolis, and then New York were the three big territories. I don’t know how I got there, but that was a quick run to get there.”
On the WWE schedule around the first WrestleMania: “They used to take a little break around WrestleMania time, like a week before and a week after. We flew up that morning, did WrestleMania … [then] I ran to the airport and caught a flight home.”
Rotunda and Windham will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2024 on Friday, April 5.
The Inaugural WrestleMania: Mike Rotunda Reflects on the Historic Event
In the world of professional wrestling, WrestleMania stands as the pinnacle of sports entertainment. It is an event that brings together the biggest names in the industry, captivating fans with its grandeur and spectacle. The inaugural WrestleMania, held in 1985, holds a special place in the hearts of wrestling enthusiasts. Recently, Mike Rotunda, a legendary wrestler, reminisced about his experience working at the first WrestleMania on the “Stories With Brisco & Bradshaw” podcast.
Rotunda, who formed the U.S. Express tag team with Barry Windham, recalled the excitement surrounding the event. Having started his wrestling career in 1981, Rotunda found himself in New York City in 1984, one of the three major wrestling territories at the time. Reflecting on his journey, he said, “I don’t know how I got there, but that was a quick run to get there.” The opportunity to participate in WrestleMania was a significant milestone for Rotunda and Windham.
The WWE schedule during the first WrestleMania was unique. Rotunda mentioned that the company used to take a break around WrestleMania time, allowing wrestlers to recharge before and after the event. He described how they flew up to New York City on the morning of WrestleMania, competed in the event, and then immediately rushed to catch a flight back home. This hectic schedule showcased the dedication and commitment of the wrestlers involved.
One of the most memorable moments for Rotunda and Windham during the inaugural WrestleMania was their tag team title match against The Iron Sheik and Nikolai Volkoff. Unfortunately, they lost the titles that night. Despite the loss, being part of such a historic event was an honor for Rotunda and Windham.
Fast forward to 2024, and both Rotunda and Windham are set to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. This recognition is a testament to their contributions to the wrestling industry and their impact on fans worldwide. The induction ceremony will take place on Friday, April 5, and will undoubtedly be a special moment for both wrestlers.
As fans eagerly await the Hall of Fame induction, Rotunda’s reflections on the first WrestleMania provide a unique insight into the early days of this iconic event. It serves as a reminder of the hard work and dedication required to make WrestleMania the spectacle it is today. The inaugural WrestleMania laid the foundation for future events, setting the stage for countless unforgettable moments in wrestling history.
In conclusion, Mike Rotunda’s recollection of working at the inaugural WrestleMania offers fans a glimpse into the excitement and challenges surrounding this historic event. As he and Barry Windham prepare to enter the WWE Hall of Fame, their journey serves as a reminder of the impact they had on the wrestling industry. The first WrestleMania will forever hold a special place in the hearts of wrestling fans, and Rotunda’s memories only add to its legendary status.