Tag: WCW

Kathy’s “ Rivalries” Review… 😬

Yes, I used my name in a title! Another first I just had to go with of last week. This is a VENTING or RANTING post so if you aren’t an Ultimate Warrior fan, this might not be a read for you today. No need for trolls here… I once again~~~ did not want to talk this SH*T but it’s recent so here goes. It concerns the A & E “ WWE Rivalries” which aired Sunday, March 2 between UW and Hulk Hogan. Like I have said before~~~ I can be unbiased and am at times but for this episode, it just brought confusion and disappointment. 😑Most of it was recycled material from the past with obviously very little new info. Here are my thoughts and you can disagree if you wish but really, I’m sure others share in this very strong opinion.

Let’s start at the beginning. How about the commentators or “hosts” if you will. I understand their “ Superfan” there and Cody being the champ but Kevin Nash? Seriously? He couldn’t stand UW so getting him to “make nice” just for ratings is totally wrong. Maybe he was there because of the Hogan angle, who knows? Perhaps WWE needs to give these legends work but they should choose wisely. Natalya as well was a surprise. Are these the same people every week? I don’t know since I don’t watch. They need a woman there possibly and her family is from Canada where WMVI was held but still…. Gosh, I can be on a panel with those standards and I wasn’t a little kid when they had that rivalry, ha! It’s maybe just to take whoever or give their thoughts and stats on events so not sure but I was shaking my head. 🤷🏻‍♀️

Next, Paul Heyman who truly has that voice which bellows and is very dramatic. That part is fine as I am NOT bashing him. Then, they showed younger pics of UW as a teen or boy as we hear Paul’s words detailing Jim Hellwig’s troubled past. OK, that’s been said and showed before as we get a glimpse into why Jim wanted success. Their understanding could be also for new viewers who have not seen any of these shows. For them, it would be a first time. My concern about it is the * RIVALRY* aspect. If you’re going to show Jim’s past, what about Terry’s? Where are younger pics of Hulk and why don’t we hear his story? His background could be quite “boring” as Warrior had said about “ Hulkamania” , ha ha! I’m sure it has been shown in other bios, ( of course…) but would’ve worked well for this one discussing them BOTH. 🙄

Speaking of Hulk, a statement he said about the HOF saddened me and I so hope it isn’t true. If it is, I have lost some respect for him so very biased on this. He had said something like how much he wanted to speak to Warrior as we know and the convo that happened between them. What sucker punched me to the gut is when he made the comment about how he had to talk to Warrior because he looked so frail and weak. I do hope he had other reasons but it seemed like that was his 1st reason. I believe I can get corrected on that as Hulk isn’t a terrible person, but I don’t like many of his discussions or innuendos and those feelings have been there from me for years. He puts his foot in his mouth so to speak A LOT and it irks me about certain topics… Many do know Warrior did not look well, but don’t let his physical state be the * ONLY* reason you approached him. It’s just so frustrating to me always. Please correct me if I am wrong..,

Another point is THAT DVD from 2005 (which I won’t mention the title) that of course needed to be spoken about. I do realize the ugly stuff had to be part of these rivalries but are they serious though? That DVD was put out as Vince’s retaliation with Warrior’s lawsuits and it had nothing to do with the rivalry between him and Hulk. Yes, HH spoke on that DVD, but it was only produced because of Vince’s anger and seemed irrelevant to that particular episode despite it needing to come forward in other bios.

Isn’t Triple H the producer of these shows? To me, it was just another smear job on UW. I do understand how the “apology” was also part of it but they seem to forget all the GOOD the character of UW brought to WWF (E) for his brief times there. I can’t even think of anything positive they showed except for a few comments but like I said~~~ Kevin Nash I’m sure meant none of the positivity. Maybe I will try to view it again to see a different take as it’s just so upsetting. I also hope Triple H still has respect for Warrior and that it just wasn’t 11 years ago. Maybe this is a sign for me to not watch any of their Warrior content moving forward as my excitement just turns to despair. 😔

Hulk Hogan is still their “star” and I know he probably was upset with Warrior’s YouTube video on him years ago as that did become quite negative. I will say Warrior did go off a little too much but don’t we all at times? Some of it was actually quite comical to me though. 😂 Karma DID come back as W said. Hulk had called W a “ flash in the pan” and a “ zero” on that DVD. W got his revenge with his video in a way. Just my take on it… Hulk is not a “saint” and yet they are treating him like one these days after much animosity for years. All guilt based for sure. They can be that way as it’s right for the company but there are other issues to contend with.. It’s similar to Eric Bischoff’s statements for the millionth time about Warrior’s run in WCW of late ‘98. THEY contacted him, not the other way around to return. Did Eric really think Warrior would follow the “rules” exactly? Get over it already and let’s talk about something else instead of the same old thing!

One of these days, I wish a more uplifting series can be done but it would be without much footage unless someone gets in WWE’s back pocket. I understand ratings, but they act like Warrior was the devil 😈 or something and it’s just very unfortunate to his legacy, impact, and millions of fans all over…. *** That’s it~~~ vent and rant done. Like below, UW’s eyes will always be looking to those who loved and continue to love him…

P.S. F*CK what they think or do (to use a Warrior word.) Onto better news next week for sure! You won’t get an “apology” video from me, ever… 🤬

The Best and Worst 🤔

Hey now, warriors~~~ don’t let that title get you all confused as of course I will explain. Here’s the beginning of Charles Dickens’s classic novel: “ A Tale of Two Cities.”

“ It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. It was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness…”

It goes on but you probably get the idea, at least maybe a little. Sometimes the best and worst are the same in many ways. I had written “ Coming Full Circle” about a starting point which becomes an ending point, but this is a little different. Yes, bad can become good which I’ve also stated but how about your best (person, place, thing, event, etc.) also quite possibly being your worst?

As my US friends will be celebrating Thanksgiving here tomorrow, we need to be grateful for it all because they are lessons we have to learn in order to evolve on this journey. We might not know the why for a long while or even ever but need to trust the process and listen to our instincts like Warrior always preached. Our strengths can be our weaknesses as you might be saying: “huh?” A strong belief of yours can also become a challenge if others don’t agree which might ostracize you. Yep, a reference to Warrior once again but many readers I bet can relate as well.

Think about his time in the WWF. No E because his years were not that letter until 2014. Warrior’s best match was beating Hulk at WMVI (although he loved working with Randy) but his worst match was ALSO with Hulk. I won’t get into details but let’s recall WCW’s Halloween Havoc ‘98. Both guys admitted in interviews how bad that was as I will firmly attest. See, Warrior and Hulk were not meant to have a rematch 8️⃣ years later because look at what happened! Even Warrior’s years in the business could be described with references of being best at times and even worst at times. We can think of memories and moments from many matches, promos, and even his history with Vince. We take it all~~~ the good and bad. We don’t want to think of best and worst being the same in our thoughts but there are those situations where it truly can be depicted that way. It’s like how we can’t have light without darkness. Always that ☯️ yin/ yang pull every day if you are familiar with that expression which Warrior also spoke of.

I can think of a few things that could be considered the best and worst. How about the Internet? What a great invention having access to so much information available at any time through our fingertips. That’s the best concept for sure. Then, there’s the worst part of it. Cyber bullying, social media rants, and way too many apps out there if you ask me. We have it all and yet again, everything will constantly evolve as it does. Time is another example. We get excited in certain passages of time and can’t wait for some events so that can be the best, right? It’s like how Christmas morning is for the little ones coming soon…. The flipside is dreading time because of upcoming circumstances or even family gatherings and sad anniversaries for some. It can be the worst as time looms near for something one dreads.

Really though~~~ this idea today is one that can be totally objective. The best and worst is with ourselves. We can love who we are and what we do but then again become our own worst critic all at once. The battle is within every day to do what we can and know we are fighting like warriors. Sometimes, we do need to surrender if a plan isn’t working but there will always be other wars. You always get to choose which side. Please pick *** YOU*** because your life counts. There are the best and worst times (kind of like those old wedding vows…) but your responses will carry you through.

When first deciding on this topic, where do you think my thoughts went? My mind and heart too, of course. Yep, I’m sure you readers know. Warrior was at the top of my list but then I HATED all that. Using the word “worst” to describe him was not gonna happen and still totally isn’t. The best is still even extreme. I mean, that would take away from my life with my family and I’m not doing that. Well, you regulars probably will know where I’m headed on this. The best and worst with Warrior aren’t just my wrestling memories but spiritually speaking in so many, many ways. 🥹 I have written most of them but once the worst kind of experiences were behind me, the best got explained and boy ~~~ did it ever. I even struggled as a teen and thought how this (meaning UW) was so strong~~~ not physically but I struggled to contain it. What a journey it has been and still is. It’s one I’m on and will be on but it does take years with lots of patience… ❤️‍🩹

Can you think of your own best and worst being one and not many? That’s a toughie but I’ll let you answer it when you can or even if you can. Whatever your answer is, just believe how labels don’t have to matter. It’s just what is and how we classify all as being. Our brains respond better that way but our soul knows more. Try to remain neutral and see where it takes you. One of my mantras is to practice neutrality but it’s one I need a daily reminder of. ***. Enjoy tomorrow’s day of giving thanks to my US readers. The best and worst will be around but just decide what defines both. Be grateful for all that is and make your time work for you. It will if you allow it in.

P.S. Last selfie for a while! Hard to believe next week’s post brings December. Oh~~~ while typing out the WCW memories with Hulk, I got a loud ringing in my right ear. Thank you Warrior as always. 💙

And, Happy Survivor Series weekend to any fans out there!

The Way of Words?! 😬🫢😂

We all deserve a FUNNY 😆 post after last week’s right? I know I do. That previous one took its toll on me and I was getting tired of that negative energy being around plus watching the docu series. I was so emotionally drained and then my instincts came “running” in for a positive and fun one. I can’t fully say how this came to me but sometimes ideas in the back become the main event so today it’s another 3️⃣ count. I hope they bring a smile your way.

I had put out into the Universe for a while now just a few moments from Warrior’s career that involved words spoken. With just about all his promos, I knew exactly what he was saying but then there would be a few times when I’d ask myself: ” What did he say?” Maybe a few of you fans can relate to my examples here. Get ready because it’s the Ultimate Maniacs again! Well, I didn’t use a photo of them below but they had used part of a song called: ” This Cowboy’s Hat.” Of course I had watched it years ago and had no idea as I didn’t know that song at all. What is Randy saying? Those words had nothing to do with their opponents at the upcoming Survivor Series! I always wanted to know whose idea it was and who knew that country song from the early 80s. You can look up the lyrics. I’m so glad someone on YouTube a few years ago posted them. I have that promo on DVD and never knew the words until YouTube. Grateful for that as I finally had this question answered. Perhaps I will never know who originated the song for their promo, but it worked and the crowd loved it. ” Pin its ears down flat” sounded like some word of ” pinajeer?” What is that? 🤭The way of words with them leads us into the ” Way of the Warrior” in WCW.

Even though Randy and Warrior go back farther in my memory, I had forgotten much about their brief tag team. ***NOT anymore with so much to reflect on now that has been mentioned…❤️💛I also (like previously stated,) never watched Warrior in WCW either. It was only after seeing much again on YouTube but then when ” The Ultimate Collection” was in my hands. Everyone probably knows when Warrior appeared on Nitro in August of 1998. You fans know. He gives a loooong speech which I believe to be brilliant but too much for time constraints. This isn’t about that but is about his words spoken. Yes, I know his entire speech NOW but there was one statement I could never fully grasp until recently. I’m so glad when this topic came that I did my research.

To back up a little, the ” Way of the Warrior” music was written for Warrior’s return to WCW as he speaks the intro while sirens 🚨 blare in the background. The only words I always made out were scope, life? or destruction and then I heard what I thought was “kick the target out.” Another one I would never fully learn until our buddy YouTube once again. Destruction seems to be a common word with him. 😑 I would replay it so many times, I still couldn’t get it,! Google led me to YouTube. A few guys put up possible lyrics but this I believe is the correct version: ” the target is scoped and locked for destruction, take the target out!” 🎯 It seems a few words I heard were right I guess! Kick works too but isn’t it amazing how just some words make us scratch our heads and wonder? Sometimes when we just accept for a bit and let it go, the Universe helps us like it did for me. I’m sure Warrior was saying: ” See, you finally got your answers!” The “Way of Warrior” became the way of words which baffles us sometimes but then we get it right, even after years of trying.

Near the beginning of Warrior ranting to “Hollywood Hulk Hogan,” he talks about how “something ultimate may soon reappear!” Next, he goes on to say what I thought was ” welcome to the real plans?!” I could never find that out but a few weeks ago, I read a super long article (most was not flattering) on Warrior and the guy had W’s whole script so what he said was “reappearance”, which makes total sense based on his prior words. Plans would work too but very funny. After all these years, I finally know the right way of words he spoke.

How about song lyrics? I haven’t mentioned music in ages but it fits today. I know most of you readers get words wrong in songs, don’t you? If you don’t, you’re lying to yourself because come on~~~ we’ve all been there, including me. I decided in some songs that I like my lyric better and still sing it that way! Sometimes, we might not understand the lyric so we insert our own. Yep, done that too but there are those times we just can’t seem to get a word here or there right and it screws up the entire song. We can look them up online now, but not years ago unless we had the album or tape. My Mom would have such a hard time when us kids started listening to music on the radio. She’d happily sing along to our faves and then we’d look at her and say: ” No, Mom- that isn’t it!” She’d laugh and then still sing her version anyways… I’ve done that with my kids too… Oh the things that repeat. 🤣

That’s my way of words today or way of my warrior writings. I hope I conjured up some good memories for you and as one of WWE slogans went: ” putting smiles on peoples faces.” My smiles are for different reasons but I hope it’s there for you. Now, go look up your homework of ” This Cowboy Hat.”

P.S. My brother and I got Phil Collins song ” Invisible Touch” wrong. We always thought ( yes- both of us if he remembers) it was called ” Physical Attraction.” So funny!, Phil with his ol’ WWF roots and songs they used. That wasn’t one of them. I have written about 2️⃣ others though! 😜

“Allow Me to Introduce…”

Hello warriors! Hope everyone is enjoying this time of year as we continue on with month 5️⃣ . You will notice that pic of Ultimate Warrior below ⬇️ from his title reign after winning the WWF belt from Hulk Hogan. Yes, I am back with those types of photos for most of this month after using a few from his younger years. Well, what I have today is from April 14, 1990 when Howard Finkel, a.k.a. “the Fink” introduced the NEWWWW champ to fans. Had they done that when Hulk beat the Sheik? I don’t know. Maybe with the new year and decade, it was time for a different approach. As Vince had said~ Warrior was: “gracing us with his presence.” Hard to imagine how 24 years after that initial date, WWE would show a tribute celebrating the life of the Ultimate Warrior and even Warrior himself after he passed. Many of those dates lined up that way for him, it’s so surreal. I can’t say that about me unless I do some serious recollecting. I’m sure many other athletes might have similarities but with Warrior, there were A LOT…😬

Let’s move onto the topic of introductions, applause, and even standing ovations. When famous like Warrior was, that comes with the territory. Some love the praise while others just accept it as their new “norm.” I bet there were plenty of times that U.W. enjoyed that attention but then, possibly not always in the spotlighted way we as fans expected. Much is asked of you when aspiring to that level of celebrity and finding privacy despite being noticed is quite the task. When is it too much or even the opposite of not enough? I say the latter because those of us absent from the entertainment industry maybe, just maybe want those big intros to others or to the world in our own way. Celebrate your accomplishments remember? We can or should celebrate other things and want recognition for those times as well.

Here’s a little story similar, which happened to me many years ago. When my husband and I started dating, there would be those occasions when we’d be with other adults and only one knew the group. Think work parties like Christmas or other family gatherings. We officially became a couple and for the longest time- seriously- he’d always just say: “this is Kathy.” That’s it. It probably was enough for him, but the others and especially ME wanted more. Um~ yeah. Sometimes (rarely) I would respond: ” I’m his girlfriend.” Then the crowd accepted the rest of the missing statement. I would feel kind of hurt but understood how difficult that was at times considering his past with gf’s. I had never been anyone’s girlfriend, I was only ever a “date” so hearing it for the first time floored me. It felt so real and yet I needed to stay composed. My husband hates lots of attention but at times, I find it necessary. Titles are good as long as there isn’t a brag fest, just like introductions.

Have you been introduced in certain situations and how did you respond? We still need humility, but it is OK to feel good about that possible praise or even acknowledgment. Is it comfortable for you or awkward? There are moments when we actually don’t want or need those extra “woo-hoos” of attention. Case in point here is after my car accident of almost ( this month) 24 years ago. I had to miss the last two weeks of teaching and my oldest kids were set to graduate preschool. I got a ride from a coworker to see them get those diplomas and went despite desperately wanting to shield my still healing face. After my substitute led the class in a couple songs, I got up to speak. A few staff members rose and then with them, the entire group of parents in that room also did. Here came the ovations as I just stood there too emotional for words. 🙂‍↕️ Even though their actions were so affectionate for all I had been through, nobody wants applause for that type of particular experience.

Many of you readers may recall that huge audience reaction my senior year of choir when we sang a beautiful Christmas hymn. That was well-deserved warriors and definitely something one would want accolades for. What memories come to mind where you felt deserving of such an honor? As parents, we applaud our kids for little things when younger and then support them throughout the school years with awards of achievement at different levels. It is with pride that we look on for all their hard work and effort. No, I didn’t like my introduction of receiving that perfect attendance mentioned last week but nowadays, you bet.

Gorilla Monsoon even made a comment once after the Ultimate Warrior was introduced for an interview segment with Mean Gene. His response was: ” listen to that ovation!” Yes, another time of being well-deserved. Warrior also addressed fans of the WCW days with these words: …”there are those who anticipated my arrival!” He mentioned how no formal introduction was going to be necessary (as many did know he’d be showing up,) but you get my point here, don’t ya? There are plenty of moments in life where intros, applause, and ovations are needed and then times where they are not based on our feelings. Save it all for the right reasons warriors as I will for sure when my girl’s graduation nears only a few weeks away… 💗 From preschool in another time and place to High School of today… I will always applaud and stand proud for my kids at any age. Even those I taught way back when. 🙋🏻‍♀️👏🏻👍

P.S. 24 years from 1990-2014 (talked about today)

24 years from 2000-2024 ( my accident/ preschool grads story to my girl’s high school grad coming up…)

🥹🥲👩🏻‍🎓

P.P.S Well, this was going to be a reminder but guess it is no more until further notice- hopefully… The “Most Wanted Treasures” episode on A & E originally thought to be aired on the Ultimate Warrior this coming Sunday was scrapped. No idea why…. Sorry to all those looking forward to it like I was… 🤦🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️🤬🙄😩

World Class Convictions 👍

Here we are in these last few days of April already. I felt like it went pretty fast considering events but better to be busy than bored, right? I told you all about a spoiler pic last week and we will have a 3 count in early May. Besides that Undertaker promo pic I used a few posts back, these are some others that are totally new with my writings. You will see below a Dingo Warrior card from the old WCCW days. Isn’t it great? I told myself years ago how there were some aspects of Warrior’s career I would rarely mention or use photos from. Well, after almost 8 years, they have finally surfaced. My goal was only if I could share a personal reflection on them despite not following his career back then. It turns out~~~ I can.

I did a little P. S. on Dingo back in the Vet’s office several times ago with a woman’s dog~~~ unless it was Bingo but I SWEAR I heard a D! This is a little different today. I bet most of you that follow have seen my pics (at least I hope you have) and noticed how many in the past were in fact from Warrior’s brief WCW run in late 1998. That of course was years later past his WCCW Dingo days. Most may also know I have discussed numerous times of not watching WCW when they went to cable just like the WWF. I could watch both before that transition, but not after. This happened a few years ahead of Warrior’s time there soo I HAD used pics of him and his WCW days having NEVER seen any of that time on my TV. Why couldn’t I use other pics of him in earlier days? I truly laughed when I realized this and my stubborn ways. 🤣🤪 My justification was merely because I hadn’t seen Warrior in action as those other characters so how could I have a post?

The truth is, I can and do. I did some research and discovered how WCW was not even available in my area at all until 1999 so * AFTER* Warrior would’ve left the company. See, I couldn’t have watched him anyways. Isn’t that something? It made me laugh at least. All this time with my silly thinking that prohibited the use of some photos. 🫨 I must say though, I do stand by my own convictions that is for sure. Sometimes they prevent me from moving forward as that is the consequence of my choices, but I have to be me just like Warrior was. I believe I’ve done a pretty good job these past 7.5 years of making this blog what it is without over glamorizing Warrior, wrestling, or even my own personal stories. I hope you agree. Many thanks if you do, as I realize other writers out there would definitely have their own viewpoint in all this, but my journey is mine to take just like yours is for you.

Have any of you ever had those moments of conviction where your beliefs overpower the circumstance? Of course you have and I mention this plenty. It is OK to not beat ourselves up over it and really- like I did— just laugh at it all sometimes. If others disagree, let them. We have to be us and yes, that does require bending in other ways that could be unfamiliar (like a wrestling move…) but overtime~~~ we must. Warrior didn’t bend on many things but often with a career, it becomes necessary. He evolved his look with different characters through the years but many think he would not have been able to sustain the intensity of Ultimate Warrior. It was perfect for the 80s, but could he have held onto his convictions for a possible rebranding? It’s hard to say but I have repeated how if he didn’t feel “all in” with the gimmick, he’d leave and that he did at times. Can you just imagine seeing him after U.W. or even Warrior as another? We know what it was like before but I think that would be hard to top… If convictions aren’t accepted, we walk away and I have done this too, still am. We can respectfully disagree but some issues seem too forced or obligated and that isn’t how it should be.

You have to know if the battle is worth the fight~~~ win or lose. We also cannot ask another to change their ways when we know they fully will not. That rings true ( ding, ding, ding, 🛎️) for me in many aspects but I will share one. While driving last week, above me on the highway overpass was a truck with the word Helwig on the side. Yes, I know different spelling~~~ but did I think of Warrior ? You bet I did. Shortly before heading out, something upset me on social media. It’s such a trivial thing and yet my convictions get the better of me sometimes. I didn’t want to be bothered by it and yet I was. At least nowadays, the frustrations fade faster than before. So, after seeing that truck- I said: “Yes, Warrior, I know…” Meaning to not let it bother me so much when others I cannot control. He was able to forgive after being gone 18 years in the WWE but really, some others weren’t so easy returning that forgiveness. I’d like to think they were but for a few, I believe it was acting. Several weeks after the HOF, they went back to their old ways as we often do.

We can keep our world class convictions but they need to adapt with the changing times. If not, it will be quite the ultimate challenge. Are you up for it? Learn went to stick to your convictions and went to concede to others. We may even forgive but always know it is for you, not them. Be the better warrior and laugh at yourself. Even Dingo became Ultimate! 💪🏻

P.S. I made a YouTube video on the 🔟 years since Warrior’s passing. You can watch it here:

https://youtu.be/6LhywcPwGng?si=MXDHUSPzWK8aWtXW

*** If this link isn’t accessible, just check out my channel:

@kathypickett1527

***Oh, and I believe it airs at 9 p.m. ET, NOT 8 as mentioned in the video… The date may change as well so check your local listings… 🤦🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️🤞🏻

To Walk as Another 👟👢🩵💛

Welcome back to new reading warriors! Well, if you’ve been reading previous posts, I thank you enormously. I guess it’s a welcome back for me then too. Let’s see… 🤔How to get caught up? Wrestling fans know WWE’s annual SummerSlam has happened so we’ll start there. I initially wasn’t planning to use an S.S. related pic of U.W. below but thought to considering the soon to be anniversary. That video was an interview Craig DeGeorge did with the NEW champ until they got interrupted by Jimmy Hart a.k.a. (“the Mouth of the South”) and Honky Tonk Man mad about losing their long held title. Hard to believe that was after the first SummerSlam 3️⃣5️⃣ years ago. I wrote about the 30th… It was technically 36 this year. These milestones yet again. AND, 25 years ago tomorrow marks the Warrior’s debut on WCW’s Nitro show. Another moment to remember.

Speaking of stats, Gunther is STILL WWE’s Intercontinental Champion and is very close to breaking HTM’s long standing record of 454 days. Yep, streaks are meant to be broken and with everything they are doing with Roman, it makes sense. I won’t say for sure, but HTM’s numbers held up all those years until broken by the Ultimate Warrior. Now, it’s Gunther’s turn whether some fans agree or not. I was so used to S.S. being that last week of August, it just crept up on me. I won’t get into all the other results as that is not my topic today…

Let’s move on to this different title of sorts while we walk as another. You’ve heard the expression of walking in another’s shoes but to stick with wrestling gear, we can say boots. I have tried this metaphorically of course as it helps to understand others situations. We may not always agree with what was said or done and cast criticisms around, but look to change the narrative. Would you react or respond in the same way if them? It’s all our free will and choices but until in a very specific circumstance, you can’t fully answer. You probably do KNOW yourself well enough as an adult to realize the limits you won’t break, but do we always? Hmmm… I believe you will say it all depends on what one is going through, right?

I’ll stick to the sport of pro wrestling in particular. Yes, we can and should apply this principle of walking in another’s shoes (or boots) to MANY relationships as it does help with perspective. I’m getting better at this and wrestling is a great example to look at here. Lace up those boots and imagine for just a brief moment that YOU are indeed one of those WWE sports entertainers or SuperStars. It does sound exciting being a character, choosing “face” or “villain,” personal gear, theme music, and all that. There are other working parts too. Like Warrior said: “It is serious. It’s a serious thing to go out there and be a character in the WWE.” He’s right. It can be fun but super risky and you have to be passionate about it for sure. Nobody can take that away from Warrior, ever. Even if you didn’t agree with him at times, you have to admit how his passion ignited the fans to support Ultimate Warrior right from the start.

Boots are hard to fill but if any of you could walk in Warrior’s when he did at THAT time, what would you have done differently? It’s easy for me to type out that question or even to say right away what I would’ve changed. Can I really though? Can you? The pressure is always there within a wrestling business or with our own people in life. Think about walking in another’s shoes for just the day. If you were them, you can make changes but new complications might come your way. Your unique personality and intuition determines how you handle what is thrown at you. I would find myself often imagining thinking of that very idea and honestly, I just can’t answer what I would do until in that moment. Sure, I can make guesses but our emotions take over when we still need that level head too. I’m sure you know people personally who have stressful careers and are faced with huge challenging decisions many times. Take off your shoes and grab another’s. I bet it feels really different in them, doesn’t it?

Social situations will be present our entire lives so we need to be ready when handling them all. Someone else’s tiniest decision can affect us when it shouldn’t but being human, and in our own shoes, it does. The big stuff will bother us more but again, we are not them and they are not us. I know I would make other choices but we still need to respect the ones different from us. To FEEL what they felt, to THINK how they thought, and to DO what they did requires much compassion and grace on our part. Those two words I have used on here plenty. I’m finding it easier to accept when I bring those words into another’s point of view not entirely my own. Those boots might not fit but you can try to see how it is being them and what they were facing. Before you judge, ask yourself to picture what it is like to be the person they are or were. Yes, this can be SO extremely difficult and many times, we don’t want to. You will understand them better as I am learning all the time. I agreed with Warrior on many issues but then other times, I thought differently.

To walk as another involves much from us but sometimes is needed on this journey of ours. We all do life in many ways but need the respect of doing it OUR way. That’s all we want so giving it to others counts too. I hope HTM sees himself back then in Gunther’s boots now. I can only imagine the feelings on his I.C belt streak probably ending. To walk as another and leave a legacy behind. It’s what we come to do.

P.S. U.W. (and Warrior) always walked as himself but as a spirit now, he has a higher perspective.., 😇🙏🏻

P.P.S. You can also look to another and REVERSE roles. Imagine them walking in YOUR shoes. Would they be similar or very different? Just think about that… 🫵🏻❓

A Little While Longer…🤍🫶🏻

Don’t you just wish sometimes things in our lives could last a little while longer? I can for sure list a BUNCH here and of course there are plenty of big things but I’m thinking more of a smaller scale. Yes, we wish people could be in our lives longer, we wish pets would be with us longer, and maybe some other life memories as well. Those will always be on our minds and in our hearts but without getting too emotional, I am scaling it back some with other thoughts.

Of course fans wanted the Ultimate Warrior to stay in either the WWF(E) and then WCW longer than he did at times but we all have many life moments of our own. Have any of you ever had a summer job that was just for the season? Maybe you returned every year but maybe you didn’t. You might not have liked it but I am thinking happy stuff you wished lasted a little longer. Most go on vacations throughout the year. We get all excited and happy for what’s to come. Once there, the adventures await and fun begins. We soak it all in despite some possible obstacles. When it’s over, you are glad for home sweet home but feel a bit bittersweet because it has ended. I ALWAYS would cry when we’d leave our house or cabin after a stay. Mama was the last one out as usual so I could have my moment. Is this you? 🏡🥲

Perhaps you’re more of a TV watcher. I can be but it all depends. I mentioned my daughter a few weeks back with getting me hooked on a Netflix show, all four seasons. I loved most but then when over, it was a letdown of sorts… I wished it went on a little longer. Movies do that to me too but then there are those where we want it to END so bad. Sometimes, it’s creepy and I just need to see how it all wraps up even though I wasn’t enjoying it. Then there are those movies that are funny yet frustrating where you root for a character to just get a win, any win, so we see that happy ending. That’s kind of like wrestling to me! I remember going with my boyfriend at the time to see “Meet the Parents” in the theater. So aggravating for me yet incredibly funny! I am not a patient girl but thankfully it ended well. They went on to make 2 sequels. My favorite is number 2…

Right now, we are almost done with a reality series. These are so addicting as I’m sure many of you know. I do not watch hardly any but this one show we enjoy and have for years. A few episodes are left as it started in late May. Those months drag by sometimes as they keep us hooked for sure. Once it ends, there won’t be another for a while and as much as I will be glad, there will be that feeling again. Oh, just a little while longer. The suspense gets me. No, it isn’t “American Ninja Warrior!” I’m really not watching that much this season. Books can be the same way. Glad to have read a few good ones lately! How am I reading fiction again? 📚I love an adventure with romance…

Endings will always be everywhere as I say quite often, but we need them to see what’s next. We may like them or we may not but life needs to keep moving. We need to keep moving with it so it’s a good reminder. Some experiences in our lives are so brief like a few weeks or months and then they are over. Warrior’s brief stint in WCW comes to mind which is that photo below. As a parent, I will forever have many experiences with my kids where I wish to hold on just a little while longer. It doesn’t even have to be a tangible thing. It could be a feeling or emotion which got brought to my being. How about looking at photos or remembering special times? Those count too. Sometimes, I can’t believe how my brain stores it all, as it can be a blessing or a curse. There’s Yin/Yang again warriors. Let’s keep the good a little while longer but know it’s all there filed away.

If you could pick something to have just a smidge more, what would you choose? You can’t have them all but as a question, could you decide? I’ll pick the “elephant in the room” here, as of course maybe you will guess. I know, I know. I said small things but this I will add because well~ he’s a part of it. Not as big as an elephant though! Energy? Maybe, yes! Warrior knew his life would more than likely be shorter than most. Often I would wonder about gifting him a little while longer while thinking of a few ideas. If I could, it would be to see both his girls just graduate high school. Yes, he was there in spirit obviously but just being on Earth a little while longer to be part of those memorable times with his girls would be my wish. OK, that would’ve been several more years at the time, but it was always a thought for me just to pick something he wouldn’t want to miss… 🥹🩷🩷

We can’t stop time but let’s see… What could be my smaller idea? It has to be something not involving someone leaving or a sad event. It doesn’t have to be missing out on a milestone either and yet my mind goes there.. I DO wish some dreams would’ve lasted longer with more answers, that’s for sure! I don’t control all that though. 😴😉 So many good ones to choose. I always wish this summer weather would last longer in Ohio but someday warmer, it will. I know! How about a good meal? Don’t we all wish that could last longer? Fun childhood memories come to my mind but again, most for me are about summer. I guess we can’t have those wishes of a little longer happen because our lives would never change. We need it all like I’ve written much. Think about a list of your own.

All of us will wish certain things would last a little while longer but let’s just make the most out of enjoying them all NOW. Be present. Have gratitude. Embrace life. It’s why we’re here… 🤗

P.S. I bet most U.W. fans would’ve wanted his title reigns to last longer, didn’t you? Also, my other wish for Warrior was to see what possible WWE project he’d be part of as an ambassador. Just one…

P.P.S. I’ll make you *LAUGH* here to end today… Yesterday, I heard a couple new songs again while working out. The second one I knew but an oldie and awww💕 moment. Then, it totally shifted opponents with an EXPLICIT song where when asking the name, Alexa bleeped it out again like another time. 🤬Oh boy, those lyrics! When I went to look it up later, I couldn’t find it at all! It has to exist, right? Part of me wanted the song to last a little while longer just to know it more but then a part of me didn’t! It was so funny and these don’t embarrass me anymore, even alone!

🤭🤣 I just laugh hysterically! Thanks Warrior. I KNOW that was him.., If only I could find the song or hear it again…. 😳my, my, my…, 😈

“Let’s get ROWDY!” 💙💪🏻🤼‍♀️

“Let’s get a little bit rowdy-

R-O-W-D-Y!” That is chanted at our fall football games by the cheerleaders as it’s a perfect lead in to today’s post. Never did I think “Rowdy Roddy Piper” would be part of any post on here but as you can see down below, he is. That pic of him and Warrior (I edited out Diamond Dallas Page, DDP sorry!) was part of their WCW team at War Games Fall Brawl back in 1998. I like to think that pic is genuine as the two of them had a few things in common I never realized. Some of you that know Roddy’s background may be aware of these few details, but here’s how I do.

Fans have mentioned in the U.W. Facebook group about when the “Most Wanted Treasures” of WWE featuring Ultimate Warrior gear will air on A & E. I am not sure either but I keep checking every week. Well, while scrolling through the content, some older biographies popped up. I DID remember wanting to watch “Hot Rod’s” but never got the chance. For some reason, his just stuck out (kind of like he did!) but now I know the reason why. Very grateful to have watched as some info on his life was new to me. I really did think he was from Scotland! ***Spoiler alert… *** He was such a scrapper of a wrestler and rightfully so. Much more of a brawler than the Brooklyn Brawler even! Both he and Warrior had difficult childhoods with fathers, both fought hard for themselves to succeed, both were rule breakers, and both used a talent to get into wrestling. For Roddy, it was playing the bagpipes and for Warrior it was lifting weights for bodybuilding. Not to forget how BOTH wrote constantly about promos, ideas, etc. which showed such creativity with their characters.

I wonder if they ever talked about each others pasts at all or those passions that helped transform their lives into a career? Maybe in “parts unknown” they are as Rod also commentated a few of U.W’s matches back in the WWF days. What a life Roddy Piper lived. I’m glad he had his wonderful family by his side and wow- such a career amid numerous injuries, pain, and sacrifices like many wrestlers have. I won’t list details… It was horrendous for him, as I am glad he survived to tell about it. When watching some of the bio, I did think of Warrior on many topics as I would never have guessed their commonalities. It was their way of thinking that got them through. Sure, I have mentioned MY similar things with Warrior plenty, but there are a few others in my life or who were in my life that I couldn’t have guessed forming a bond outside of a “main event!”

3 people have been written about on here already, but I have a few more to add with this list. Many years ago when my kids were little, they were in playgroups. I formed a close bond with one mother as we got to know each other better. Little did I know at the time how I went to grade school with her high school boyfriend! We actually grew up very close to each other and knew many of the same kids. We shared similar tastes in food, humor, and personalities, despite our children being the same age and us being in PTA together. You take a chance on a friendship while the universe does its thing. Unfortunately, we are not close today because of other personal issues but our kids first brought us together as moms. Another woman I met through the book club I attended for a few years. She was the same age as our leader, Pam. Again, no idea I’d have anything in common with her besides our love of that wonderful book we all discussed! As it turns out, she always wanted to get her own book published just like I did but had no idea on the process. She admired my determination and finally got her book on photography out into the world. Without spending time chatting about another book , never would I have known her talent and love as well as mine. ✍🏻📸📗

Those other 3 written about already in other posts are still a part of my life, just in different ways. I bet you can relate to this. There’s usually another person, topic, interest, or something that first connects both and then you find other personal memories that might be a surprise. Maybe Roddy and Warrior never talked, but they did share a few things in their pasts that would influence their futures. I am still excited when I find out a connector with a friend. Never am I one to copy, my passions are mine and many can be similar to another without knowledge until later on. (:

The trick is in order to find out anything, you have to be willing to share. This is another frustrating area for me to navigate but I’m getting better. Like I’ve said before, you can’t trust everyone but you also can’t go through life never trusting at all. We need the lessons. Also, you can share a little, but not your entire life story all at once. There will be stuff that is bad and none of us wants pity. At least I don’t and I know both Roddy and Warrior didn’t either. It’s great to share the good things though. Be proud, but don’t brag. Overtime, little by little, sharing becomes a two-way street and maybe you’ll even get a little bit ROWDY!

Who knows what other bios I will run across as I have seen a few now plus some of the “Most Wanted Treasures” episodes. I do my best to have an open mind and remain compassionate, like with Ultimate Warrior’s a few years ago. How is that 2 years already? Maybe a new post will come to this “ring” once U.W’s episode airs? Thank you HOT ROD for your exuberant self that made you the best villain to hate. I DID root for him sometimes~ always against Rick Rude! Both were part of U.W’s SummerSlam match in ’89! I hope he and Warrior maybe had a reunion of sorts where they are now but if not, that’s OK. My memories remain and this fall once again for the last season, I will chant that cheer proudly… 🥹Every time I would look at that sentence whether written or typed, I get teary… It’s gonna happen friends…

P.S. Roddy HAD other careers besides wrestling. I bet Warrior would love that as he always advocated everyone proving they could do so much more than one thing…

P.P.S. I called in to “80’s wrestling the podcast” AGAIN last week! It was all about “The Mount Rushmore of Wrestling” which is highly debatable and will forever be.. I am about 14 min. in so feel free to give it a listen on blog talk radio or however you get your podcasts. I WILL add though- yes-I will of course- but Undertaker should definitely be on one! We can have multiples ya know as well since it is generational.., 😉Who would be on yours??? 🤔Someone DID put Hot Rod on theirs and Ultimate Warrior’s name was listed.. He is not on mine but is in other ways… 🫶🏻

Let’s be Grateful 🙏🏻❤️‍🩹👍

The word grateful fits for this month of November here in the U.S. and Thanksgiving but really, it’s every day. Also, Veterans Day is this Friday as I knew Warrior had painted the flag logo on his chest a few times. Some may think it was because of his feud with Sgt. Slaughter which is right, but that isn’t the pic above. That video pic is the Ultimate Warrior promoting Vince’s WBF (World Bodybuilding Federation) and it’s Personal Fitness Expo of June 1991. The flag image kept coming to me so I had some searching to do.

A few years back, I did an entire post on Veterans Day which fell on Wednesday. I am grateful to ALL who served (including many family members of mine) giving our citizens the freedoms we take for granted here in the U.S. We are indebted by their service and always needing to be mindful of that when offering “thanks.”… This date however, falls on November 9 which was Warrior’s final WCW Monday Nitro appearance. I had to double check as I know he left before the end of ’98. Another Warrior moment with a date today.

So, gratitude it is. I got this idea from a few sources in a way. I was looking through my topics written on “Spirit and Belief” nostalgically as the subjects with dates are saved. The gratitude post kind of jumped out at me. I wrote that a few years ago. Sometimes I would post a topic on both blogs for the week as it seemed to connect. This one I had not but can totally relate with Warrior for sure. Let me just put this out there for all you readers today. To me, there are 2 main things we should be grateful for each day. Can you guess? I say them in meditation before anything else. Number 1 is your LIFE. Number 2 is your HEALTH. Everything else follows. Those are the catalyst for your entire purpose here. We need to do the best to take care of ourselves despite all that is happening around us. Even if you’re battling something extreme, fight for your life all the time. As warriors, it’s what we do but that free will factors in as well.

I have also made a HUGE gratitude list in one of my journals. Now, I know many of you aren’t writers and won’t do this exercise but as Warrior always said– by writing something down you’ll remember better, among other things. My list began small and grew. It can be quite easy as starting like this: “I am grateful for… ” ( fill in the blank.) I sound like a teacher but guess I am in many ways. We all have the basic list but it can become quite expansive. Go ahead and start. I’ll wait... ✍🏻🤔

OK, you non-writers. Making a list in your head works too or even saying them out loud. It might sound crazy but the more we express gratitude, the more it comes our way. Even if you don’t pray or meditate, I’m sure you are grateful and thankful for many things. They don’t have to be deep either. How about just being grateful for your dog, pizza, or a great vacation? See, not so hard now is it? You can think of your own list. Let’s all just be grateful for what we are and what we have right now in this moment.

Let’s explore the man himself. Can’t we all just be grateful for his earthly presence and eliminate judging? He did sacrifice so much and yet sometimes we let comments out that shouldn’t be. People have mentioned Warrior looking too thin at times, or not as muscular, having a flabby gut in some pics, not liking the gray hair, him being bald, aging badly by possibly neglecting his health, moving slow later on, and SO much more. Sure, I have wondered about a few of those aspects but others get me shaking ropes in my head! I have said comments (to myself) about other former Superstars but not Warrior. I am biased in areas but some I won’t fully know just like you. Those are all physical traits and as humans, we have that vanity. Myself included here as we become our own worst critic. Warrior wasn’t immune either. I have written plenty on that and can mention each of those separately but won’t. Vanity isn’t all bad. It’s how we use it which matters more.

We need to be thankful that the Ultimate Warrior and then as Warrior graced our TV sets which allowed us into the world of professional wrestling and then beyond. Those negative statements will not change anything and yet some insist on going back-and-forth about it all still. Why? For attention or discussion on his physicality? It’s not necessary and only causes much frustration our way that can’t be altered. Let it go warriors even though most may not. The good things we CAN discuss like possible feuds, ring gear, favorite looks, etc. but the negativities should end. Be grateful we have the memories and the good. The rest can be.

I know there are those who don’t or won’t make judging comments about Warrior and are so extremely grateful for his time here. Be happy for the entertainment, intense yet passionate disciplined speeches, and returning to WWE that he gave us. I am grateful for it all that I was privileged to see. Now, social media keeps it going. Practice being grateful or ask for more of it in your life. It’s stuff right in front of you. I am grateful to all of you- the readers. I’m going to end with a quote on one of my beach coasters. It reads: “start each day with a grateful heart.” I do my best as I hope you will too. I will always be grateful for everything that has been gifted my way including Warrior. It all truly is amazingly ultimate. 🥹

P. S. This is new— while walking my dog last week, I saw this parked truck from Texas. The mud-flaps said “TexArkana.” Wow! Haven’t heard that in a while and remembered the U.W.F. with it’s mid-South territory…

P.P.S. To any vets reading today: “thank you for your service!” ❤️🤍💙🇺🇸🦅🗽☮️

~~~ Don’t forget to check out the fb Ultimate Warrior group or over on Instagram at : ultimate_warrior_tribute

*** I am also on Twitter and YouTube..

***One more thing- this seems to happen A LOT lately but my posts are written almost a week in advance so I have no idea what if anything will get posted on those sites. If some are discussing Warrior’s life and choices he made, it is usually AFTER my ideas get written down… A few times I bashed other groups I am not part of anymore. Most guys that belong to the fb page – I do agree with on many things concerning Warrior and his life. People will always have their opinions just like me. We will always CARE and wanted him around longer… He would want us to accept it all to move forward and despite that being difficult sometimes, it is what we must do…. 🤟🏻

Words I Can’t Say 🫢🤭😮

Hello warriors! Before I begin today for any wondering– yes, my daughter got her drivers’s license! Whew. 🥳 Another thing crossed off my giant to do list which never seems to end. Such is life. All worth it on this crazy planet of ours for sure. Both kids start school this week. Son at college started Monday and daughter is tomorrow beginning her junior year of high school. Gosh, they have grown. Moving on...

My title of this post isn’t quite accurate but I couldn’t think of a back up one so this is it. Technically, they are words I CAN say but perhaps had or still have a hard time with. Some are funny which is good. They just connect to Warrior or wrestling obviously and are expressions I haven’t really shared before. I haven’t shared that photo of the Ultimate Warrior either as it is the last of the videos I chose. A three count of these past few weeks of course. 😌 This one was about facing the Honky Tonk Man in 1988 before the very first SummerSlam and winning the IC belt. Since I just wrote that word, let’s start with it.

Does anyone remember the 1991 song: ” Summertime” by DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince (a.k.a. Will Smith?) Well, I do naturally and do remember most of the lyrics. I would actually have a hard time saying the title as I always think of SummerSlam, right? You can’t see me right now but thinking to say TIME over SLAM was funny then. I’m surprised I haven’t heard that song this summer... 🤔

Which one is next? I think I’ll go with my last addition to this list which by the way, amounted to 6 words or expressions! This one made the list number 6. Just last week, my husband gave me that number 6 for this post so that’s a good stopping point, don’t ya think? He says “Holy Mackerel!” Yes, he does and quite often I might add. Always makes me think of Gorilla Monsoon as that was frequently said by him during his commentary days. I always chuckle since that saying is not said by my generation. Gorilla will be in my thoughts every time I hear it from my guy. He’s not that old but those sayings come out of his mouth... 🤣

OK, I’ll throw in an easy one here which is quite obvious when I think about it. The word clothesline has taken on a whole new meaning after childhood for me. To all you non-wrestling fans, this word was one of the Ultimate Warrior’s signature moves with his character. There are also those actual hung up lines of the past people would put clothes on to dry outside. My Dad rigged one up in our basement as a kid for laundry but outside one was for our swimsuits and towels by the pool. We used trees. I do see some in people’s yards with the actual poles still in the ground. My grandparents house had that but nowadays, for years it’s a wrestling move for me. I bet some kids don’t even know what a wooden close pin is...

The next one I don’t have a hard time with anymore but boy, did I almost 8.5 years ago. It’s the title of one of the WWE shows and with writing about Warrior- fans will know. RAW is the word. I did struggle with it, really I did. Warrior’s last television appearance before he passed was on Monday night RAW so I’m sure you can guess the emotion there. I would say “fresh” for foods like veggies instead of cooked or things similar. I’m better now with that word but it will always hit me differently. We take those memories with us.

These last two connect to WCW’s NITRO show which competed with WWE’s RAW on Monday night for 6 years. I had to look up those dates to be sure. Yep, that number again and how fitting today! Both of these words and phrases concern Warrior’s return to wrestling in August 1998. I’ve mentioned this plenty but how about when he makes his entrance? Tony Schiavone remarks: “it’s the silhouette of a man that we see right now.” Nice, huh? I think of a song because I would. Any guesses? I bet based on those words of Tony’s you can know. “Bohemian Rhapsody” for the win! We all know those lyrics by Queen. “I see a little silhouetto of a man…” I always say little? Every time when I hear that, I do. I did just watch that NITRO clip as the 24th anniversary was last week. The thunderbolts and lightning work well with Warrior in that song too but we’ll stick to the other lyrics. Yep, it’s there for me all the time for both. Are you singing it? I know you are. 🎤🎼

The final one is a word from Warrior himself. Best for last! Quintessential, there’s a word for ya. He was describing “Hollywood” Hulk Hogan as being a: “quintessential influencer” back in the day. Such big words from him but they always worked. At least for me. I hear that word often now and never much did. Always do I stop and ponder while giggling to myself of that word spoken by Warrior those years ago. I used to hear and see ultimate or even warrior everywhere it would seem and now quintessential. There. I’m not using that word again…

Those 6 fun words and phrases I don’t say but always make me smile that seem to come up a lot. I bet you have words too that remind you of a time lost but maybe not forgotten. People do remind us in many ways, don’t they? Sometimes we don’t even realize it at all. With summer ending soon, I get sad. ☹️ Maybe I’ll look up the song “Summertime!” Not SLAM, TIME… I still see clotheslines out too...

P.S. Speaking of SummerSlam, that was a whole month earlier this year. It probably would’ve been this weekend!

www.spiritandbelief.com

*** I am here as well for a more in-depth spiritual blog on various topics like meditation, intuition, crystals, etc.. so check it out! PLUS book info is there or you can find it on Amazon and other book outlets. It is short stories of my spiritual connection with Warrior as I relate dreams, family stuff, psychic terms in a relatable way, and more.., I would love a review if you have the time! 📗

*** You can also find me on Twitter, YouTube, and I’m in a U.W. fb group for more great spiritual or Warrior content!! 💙🙏🏻🙋🏻‍♀️💪🏻