In this installment of Blake’s Best Of, we take a stroll through the highlights of Clash of the Champions II: Miami Mayhem.
Brad Armstrong shines against the most hated man in America
Spoiler alert: Armstrong was my pick for Most Underrated Wrestler in my Pro Wrestling 1988 Year In Review book. His work throughout the year was really good, and this was an awesome spot in an NWA US Heavyweight title match against Barry Windham, who had recently become one of the most hated men in wrestling after turning heel on Lex Luger. The crowd wanted Windham to get his ass kicked, and Armstrong was happy to oblige.
Yachts ‘N Hoes
Ric Flair and Lex Luger having a contract signing on a yacht? Count me in folks. All contract signings should take place on a yacht. While it may have been a missed opportunity to not have these guys fight into the ocean, it was still a unique setup for what most expected to be one of the biggest matches of the year. Of course, the NWA once again got in its own way with the booking of the match, but at least the contract signing was fun.
An entertaining mess
Armstrong vs. Windham was the best match on this show, but the Fantastics against the Sheepherders was entertaining enough to qualify for Best Of inclusion. After all, there wasn’t much else to choose from. Some hilarious spots in this match, which Luke and Butch were obviously great at throughout their careers as both the Sheepherders and Bushwhackers. Again, not a classic, but it’s good stuff from an entertainment standpoint.
For my thoughts and match ratings for the entire Clash of the Champions II card, check out the Pro Wrestling 1988 Year In Review on Amazon.
Blake Knox is a pro wrestling writer and author. You can find his Pro Wrestling Year In Review series on Amazon.