Pro Wrestling Chronicle

Match # 85: Randy Savage vs. Jerry Oski (5/7/85)

According to announcer Randy Hales this match went 31 minutes (who knows for sure), but it’s joined in progress. I have no idea who Jerry Oski is/was, but this match has gotten some praise from what I’ve read. As it stands this is for the Southern Heavyweight title.

Ring side announcer says 15 minutes into the match when we join in progress. Both guys look like they’ve been through a battle. I like that they let the babyface Oski cheat at times to gain the advantage from time to time. Oski is a heck of an athlete. He out-quicks Macho Man and works on the right arm. This is on the strong side of stall vs good hold wrestling. Good back-and forth action, and I like it more then the usual Memphis back and forth. Savage plays his heel character well here interacting with the fans and the ref. He’s got some manager I’ve never seen before who carries a cane. It should also be noted Savage carries that big muscular frame better then almost anyone I’ve seen.

Savage beats Oski inside and on the floor, but Oski has a kick ass kick out at the pin. Savage tries to get Oski counted out, but he makes it back in and gets a near fall himself. Savage posts him and the fans get really hot at him. He comes off the top with the ax handle to the floor. Really good developing story.

Some great suplexes from Savage. Oski makes a comeback, but posts himself and goes to the floor when Savage moves. Really well timed and rather modern for 1985. Savage’s manager, Chuck Newman, beats Oski with the cane and he sells for a while again.

Oski comes back a few times (it rules) and 30 minutes in they’re both down. Savage kills him with a stiff second rope elbow, but Oski still kicks out. They fake a ref bump and Oski wins with a roll up. Savage destroys him after the match, but the fans go ape shit anyway. Great match that must have made Oski in Louisville for a while. 4 stars and 8/10.

Match Discussion Here