Today in Pro Wrestling History (June 21): The American Dream Wins His Second World Title

Today in Pro Wrestling History: On June 21st, 1981, Dusty Rhodes defeats Harley Race to capture his second NWA World Heavyweight title. He would hold the belt for only 88 days, before dropping it to Ric Flair.

Today in Pro Wrestling History (June 21): The American Dream Wins His Second World Title

Today In Pro Wrestling History June 21

Rhodes’ second reign as NWA World Heavyweight Champion, however, was relatively short-lived. He held the title for 88 days before losing it to Ric Flair, another iconic figure in the sport, on September 17, 1981. Flair would go on to become one of the most decorated champions in wrestling history, while Rhodes continued to be a major draw and influential figure in the industry.

YouTube video

Canโ€™t get enough pro wrestling history in your life? Sign up to unlock ten pro wrestling stories curated uniquely for YOU, plus subscriber-exclusive content. A special gift from us awaits after signing up!

Want More? Choose another story!

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, Threads, YouTube, TikTok, and Flipboard!

"Evan Ginzburgโ€™s stories are a love letter to wrestling, filled with heart, humor, and history. A must-read for any true fan." โ€” Keith Elliot Greenberg

Wrestling Rings, Blackboards, and Movie Setsย is the latest book from Pro Wrestling Stories Senior Editor Evan Ginzburg. 100 unforgettable storiesโ€”from sharing a flight on 9/11 with a WWE Hall of Famer to untold moments in wrestling history. A page-turner for fans of the ring and beyond. Grab your copy today! For signed editions, click here.


PWSTees Ad

Pro Wrestling Stories is committed to accurate, unbiased wrestling content rigorously fact-checked and verified by our team of researchers and editors. Any inaccuracies are quickly corrected, with updates timestamped in the article's byline header.
Got a correction, tip, or story idea for Pro Wrestling Stories? Contact us! Learn about our editorial standards here. Ever wanted to learn more about the people behind Pro Wrestling Stories? Meet our team of authors!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us provide free content for you to enjoy!

Be sure to follow Pro Wrestling Stories on Twitter @pws_official and Facebook @prowrestlingstories to keep up with the latest!