AWA

The American Wrestling Association (AWA) was a professional wrestling promotion based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded by Verne Gagne in 1960. The AWA was one of the major wrestling promotions during the territorial era and remained a significant force until its closure in 1991.

The AWA was home to legendary wrestlers including Verne Gagne, Nick Bockwinkel, the Crusher, Baron Von Raschke, Larry Zbyszko, Curt Hennig, Sgt. Slaughter, the Road Warriors, Ric Flair, and a young Hulk Hogan. The promotion is also notable for launching the career of Jesse Ventura and hosting the first WrestleRock event.

The AWA declined in the 1980s as the WWF's national expansion drew away top talent. Despite innovations like developing the Rock 'n' Roll Express concept and producing quality programming, the promotion struggled to compete and closed in 1991. WWE acquired the AWA video library in 2003, preserving its historical significance.