Author: Today in Pro Wrestling History: On September 17th, 1981 in Kansas City, Missouri, Ric Flair captured his first World Heavyweight Championship by defeating Dusty Rhodes for the National Wrestling Alliance title. The match, which had legendary champion Lou Thesz as the special referee, marked the beginning of Flair’s illustrious career as a titleholder.
Today in Pro Wrestling History (September 17): Ric Flair’s First World Title
Flair’s first reign lasted until June 10, 1983, when he dropped the belt to Harley Race. Known as “The Nature Boy,” Flair would become the quintessential champion of the 1980s, capturing the NWA World Heavyweight Championship nine times, in addition to multiple reigns in WCW and WWE throughout his decorated career.
Here’s another great story about Ric Flair: Ric Flair: The Last Real World Champion & An Honest Review
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