Dangerous Conversations w/Doug Gilbert and Tommy Rich

Retro Wrestling Archive Podcasts
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Join Memphis Wrestling Hall of Famers "Dangerous" Doug Gilbert & Tommy "Wildfire" Rich as each week they sit down with host Gene Jackson and share stories from the ring and the road, and they may even invite along a guest or two from time to time! retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com

  1. 19 SEPT

    Dangerous Conversations Episode #52: Season Two Finale

    In this season finale of Dangerous Conversations, Doug Gilbert, Tommy “Wildfire” Rich, and Gene Jackson close out Season Two with stories, laughs, and plenty of road tales! Doug and Tommy break down their whirlwind schedule—comic cons, wrestling shows, and horror conventions—plus wild behind-the-scenes stories from the road, like their infamous “spider in the dressing room” scare and how Doug almost left his wallet in the back of a truck. The guys also reflect on AEW’s recent tribute to Eddie Gilbert, sharing heartfelt moments with Jeff Jarrett, Sting, and Tony Khan. Hear how much Eddie’s legacy still means today, and why Tony Khan earned their respect as one of wrestling’s true good guys. Other highlights include: Meeting sports legends like Lawrence Taylor and Reggie Jackson at upcoming events. Old school Memphis Mafia vibes as Doug & Tommy double-shot across towns just like the territory days. Comic Con craziness, from costumes to fan interactions with Honky Tonk Man and Lou Ferrigno. This episode is the perfect send-off before Season Three kicks off soon. Don’t miss the stories, the laughs, and the chaos that only Doug & Tommy can bring. Follow Doug on Facebook at Dangerous Doug Gilbert, Instagram at @RealDougGilbert, and X at @RealDougGilbert. Stay tuned for Season Three updates right here! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com

    1h 7m

  2. 12 SEPT

    Dangerous Conversations Episode #51: Memphis Mafia Vintage Wrestling Posters

    The Memphis Mafia is back on the road, and this week’s episode of Dangerous Conversations is loaded with classic wrestling talk, wild stories, and old-school memories! Doug Gilbert and “Wildfire” Tommy Rich break down vintage wrestling posters sent in by fans, sparking tales about legends like Terry Funk, Jerry Lawler, Dusty Rhodes, Dory Funk Jr., Sputnik Monroe, the Moondogs, and more. From wild nights with Jerry Brisco to stories about Butch Reed, Hillbilly Jim, and even Plowboy Frazier’s many gimmicks—this one is packed with history and hilarity. The guys also update fans on the busy Memphis Mafia Tour schedule, including appearances in Tennessee, Arkansas, and beyond. Gene Jackson joins in to guide the conversation, filling in results, asking the tough questions, and stirring up memories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you lived through the USWA era or you’re just discovering the magic of Memphis wrestling, this is another can’t-miss episode of Dangerous Conversations! Chapters (00:00:00) - Dangerous Conversations(00:06:47) - Meet and Greet Bo James(00:11:26) - "It's a museum,"(00:11:45) - Mike Graham on Jerry Briscoe Match(00:15:10) - Dory Funk vs Tommy Gilbert(00:17:20) - Bobby Jaggers vs Coco Samoa(00:18:33) - Dusty Rhodes vs Jerry Lawler(00:22:44) - Jerry Lawler on World's Greatest Professional Wrestling Match(00:26:15) - Ron and Don Wright on Sputnik Monroe(00:28:36) - Ron and Don On The Way(00:32:15) - Tommy Sierra on Working With Fidel Sierra(00:33:46) - Tommy Lee on David Sammartino(00:34:17) - Kevin Von Erich on His Match in Georgia(00:35:11) - Tommy Goolas Three-Time NWA Tag Team Champion(00:39:54) - Butch Reed on His Georgia Championship Match(00:41:55) - Tommy Wildfire vs Jimmy Snuka(00:47:12) - Mike Miller on His Podcast(00:48:36) - Eddie Gilbert on Rick Morton vs Jerry Lawler(00:51:05) - Jimmy Garvin vs Radimias(00:53:51) - Paul Orndorff vs Leroy Brown(00:58:08) - USWA Legends(01:03:36) - Memphis Legends This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com

    1h 6m

  3. 5 SEPT

    Dangerous Conversations Episode #50: AD&T #8 (Ask Doug and Tommy- answering YOUR questions!)

    The Memphis Mafia are back! After a week off, Dangerous Doug Gilbert and Wildfire Tommy Rich return with a jam-packed episode of Dangerous Conversations.   This week, the guys talk about their recent matches and signings, upcoming events across Tennessee, Arkansas, and beyond, and some hilarious road stories you won’t hear anywhere else.   Then, they dive into a wide-ranging Q&A session from fans, covering: Memories of the Snowman vs. Jerry Lawler controversy in 1990. Early encounters with a young “Stunning” Steve Austin in USWA. Wild times in Japan, including teaming with Terry Funk and Kabuki’s retirement match. Thoughts on Terry Golden’s KAW promotion and their involvement with it. Behind-the-scenes stories about Eddie Gilbert & Jerry Lawler’s real relationship. Opinions on celebrities in wrestling, from Andy Kaufman to today’s stars. Candid takes on managers like Jimmy Hart and "bookers" like Eric Embry. Memories of crossing paths with names like Gary Young, Maxx Payne, Kevin Nash, Bobby Eaton, and Dennis Condrey. Whether Jeff Jar... Chapters (00:00:00) - Dangerous Conversations With Doug Gilbert & Tommy Wildfire Rich(00:06:48) - Doug Gilbert At WWE Legends' Ball(00:08:07) - Randy Hill on Tommy Rich's Sex Magnet Comment(00:11:20) - Jerry Lawler on Randy's Fill-in(00:14:01) - Memphis Mafia T-Shirt For Tommy Rich(00:15:35) - Jerry Lawler vs The Snowman(00:17:42) - Steve Austin on Being Paid His Dues By Jerry Jarrett(00:22:30) - Gary Young and Max Payne On The Alamo(00:26:27) - Steve Austin On Jeff Jarrett(00:27:55) - Dougie and Terry Golden On KAW Kick ASS Wrestling (Before(00:31:57) - Eddie and Jerry Lawler(00:37:05) - Jerry Lawler on Doug Gilbert's Threatening To Kill Him(00:40:23) - Jerry Lawler on Celebrities in Wrestling(00:44:15) - Taking my Accounting Books off my Drawer(00:44:40) - Steve Austin on His Money in the Bank(00:45:08) - Favorite Match of My Career in Japan(00:49:26) - Jimmy Hart on His Managers(00:52:15) - Eddie on Eric Embry(00:54:59) - Joe and Evan Edwards Talk Tough Guys(01:00:31) - Memphis Mafia Wrestling: Tommy Rich(01:02:36) - Retro Wrestling Review USWA Podcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com

    1h 5m

  4. 22 AUG

    Dangerous Conversations Episode #49: The PG-13 Feud

    This week on Dangerous Conversations, Doug Gilbert is joined by Gene Jackson (with a late run-in from “Wildfire” Tommy Rich!) as they pull back the curtain on one of the most talked-about rivalries in Memphis Wrestling history: the feud with PG-13 (Wolfie D & JC Ice). Doug and Tommy revisit how the program started, why they weren’t sure it would work at first, and how it grew into one of the hottest storylines in USWA’s final years. From shaved heads to hubcaps, sympathy heat, and booking secrets, you’ll hear how two seasoned heels helped make PG-13 legit top stars in the territory. Along the way, you’ll also get road stories, behind-the-scenes tales about Randy Hales, and the hilarious chaos of trying to keep Wolfie and Jamie from fighting each other outside the ring. Topics covered: How the feud was booked to make fans believe in the underdogs Stories from the road with PG-13  The booking style of Randy Hales and how he trusted all four guys along the way Wildfire Tommy Rich’s role as “assistant booker and hatchet man” If you love Memphis Wrestling history and fun road stories, this is one you don’t want to miss! Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more Dangerous Conversations every week! Chapters (00:00:00) - Wildfire Tommy Rich on Dangerous Conversations(00:02:54) - NWA Champion Gene Oakley on September(00:09:17) - Memphis Mafia Tour 2018(00:12:51) - Memphis Mafia T-Shirt(00:13:19) - The Memphis Mafia vs. The Us(00:13:48) - Tommy Had Just Quit Power Pro(00:14:38) - Tommy and The Memphis Mafia On The US(00:18:52) - Jamie D on The PG13(00:20:54) - Tony vs Randy in USWA and Power Pro(00:27:05) - Tommy Hawkins on Randy Hales' Leaving The Box(00:31:44) - Tommy Malone on Working With Randy(00:38:07) - Jamie and Wolfie(00:40:26) - Doug and Gene on Randy vs Tommy Rich(00:45:26) - Tommy vs Randy(00:51:40) - Jerry Lawler on Working With Tommy and Randy(00:57:29) - Randy Hills on Me and Tommy on WWE 13(01:03:28) - Tommy and Jamie on Rock and Roll(01:06:59) - Wildfire Championship Wrestling Owner Tommy Rich on The Retro Wrestling Review US(01:10:22) - Memphis Legends This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com

    1h 12m

  5. 15 AUG

    Dangerous Conversations Episode #48: The Memphis Mafia Invade Power Pro Wrestling (Part 1)

    Get ready for a wild ride back to 1999 as "Dangerous" Doug Gilbert and “Wildfire” Tommy Rich tell the story of the Memphis Mafia’s arrival in Randy Hales’ Power Pro Wrestling! In this first part of the story, the guys cover the behind-the-scenes moments leading up to their Power Pro debut—plus a few fun road stories from their prior territory days. They also circle back and clarify a couple of points from last week's "End of the USWA" episode. Hear how Doug’s mom, Peggy Gilbert, became part of one of Memphis TV’s most shocking angles, the surprising way Tommy Rich came out of “the box” to swerve the fans, and how WWF developmental talents like JR Smooth (Rikishi), Rosey, and Glenn Kulka factored into the mix. The boys share how they kept the “shock factor” alive, the real-life ribbing that spilled into TV storylines, and the art of making good Southern wrestling television that kept heat on the heels and kept the babyfaces strong. It’s classic Memphis chaos with laughs, history, and first-hand stories you won’t hear anywhere else. This is the build-up to the Memphis Mafia invading Power Pro Wrestling—Part 1 sets the stage for what’s to come! Chapters (00:00:00) - Doug Gilbert and Tommy Wildfire Rich(00:02:50) - Wildfire Championship Wrestling(00:06:30) - Wrestle 14(00:10:00) - Jerry Lawler on Doug Baldwin's(00:13:29) - Tommy Lawler on His 50th Anniversary at the Coliseum(00:17:38) - Tommy Kingston on His Friendship With Gene Simmons(00:22:21) - Jerry Lawler on His Refinch(00:26:09) - Good Times in Jonesboro(00:30:37) - Lou Thes vs Wayne Ferris(00:33:48) - Doug and Tommy on Randy Hales Bringing TV5 Wrestling Back(00:40:43) - Gene Hill on Randy's First TV Show(00:45:06) - Tommy Thomas on Randy's Leaving(00:45:36) - WWE developmental guys(00:49:33) - Doug Gilbert Was Part of the Memphis Mafia(00:52:39) - Tommy Rich Back in Power Pro 100(00:58:17) - Wolfie on Tommy Campbell(00:58:59) - Tommy vs Gene Jones(01:04:56) - Tommy vs Doug Gilbert on Power Pro 11(01:09:55) - Memphis Legends This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com

    1h 12m

  6. 8 AUG

    Dangerous Conversations Episode #47: The End of the USWA

    On Episode #47 of Dangerous Conversations, "Dangerous" Doug Gilbert, Tommy "Wildfire" Rich, and Host Gene Jackson take a deep dive into the end of the USWA, sharing stories and behind-the-scenes insights about the final days of USWA Championship Wrestling.   Doug and Tommy reflect on the glory days of 1994–95, when the USWA was still drawing money and packing the Mid-South Coliseum—right before the Monday Night Wars changed everything. They talk about Larry Burton, Mark Selker, shady business dealings, and how it all eventually collapsed.   Plus: Doug gets paid to eat at Ruth’s Chris!? Tommy's last cage match... and Jerry Lawler ends up in the slammer Who is Dutch MANTRELL? Brian Christopher commits vehicular assault with a Golf Cart!?!? Why Memphis on Monday night couldn’t survive against Raw and Nitro War Could Memphis have had continued success had they went to Friday nights at the MSC?   No filters. No BS. Just wild stories, hard truths, and plenty of laughs with the Memphis Mafia.   Subscribe now and don't miss an episode! Chapters (00:00:00) - Doug Gilbert and Tommy Wildfire(00:03:40) - Tommy Rich's Tennessee Dates(00:09:09) - Jerry Lawler on Getting In A Cage(00:13:53) - Tommy Kingston Meet in Dalton, Georgia(00:17:43) - USWA End of the USWA(00:24:51) - Jerry Lawler on His Money Letter(00:29:32) - Jerry Lawler on Larry Brooks' Meeting(00:33:55) - ECW star on Larry Brown's comment(00:39:15) - Memphis Wrestling: Should We Have Extended to Friday?(00:44:42) - Tommy vs Doug on WWF TV(00:49:20) - Tommy vs Randy Hales(00:53:20) - Tommy On Wolfie Kicking Him Out The House(00:57:58) - Wolfie and Tommy on The Larry Burton Story(01:00:56) - Jerry Lawler on His Million-Dollar Deal(01:06:11) - Bruno on His New Album(01:09:24) - Retro Wrestling Review USWA This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com

    1h 12m

  7. 1 AUG

    Episode #46 – Ask Doug & Tommy #7: Malden Memories, Hogan vs Austin, Eddie Gilbert Stories & More!

    The Memphis Mafia is back! In Episode #46 of Dangerous Conversations with "Dangerous" Doug Gilbert & "Wildfire" Tommy Rich, Gene Jackson sits down with Doug and Tommy for their 7th “Ask Doug & Tommy” fan Q&A episode, and it’s a wild one from start to finish! This week, the boys tackle YOUR questions and open up about: Doug’s very first match in Malden, Missouri and the incredible wrestling history that came out of that small town Tommy’s memories of his Memphis run in 1980–81, winning and losing the NWA World Title, and why he turned heel on Lawler Hulk Hogan vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin – who meant more to the wrestling business? Eddie Gilbert’s psychology in the ring and why he could make ANY opponent look good The ugliest injuries they’ve ever seen in person – from compound leg breaks to tragedy in the ring The most athletic “big men” they ever wrestled – Bam Bam Bigelow, Jerry Blackwell, and more! The wild backstory of Big Business Brown and how he broke his arm taking a bump on live TV Plus: Memphis Mafia road stories, rare insight into wrestlers who never got their Japan run (but should have), a tribute to Brian Christopher, booking announcements, merch talk, and plenty of unfiltered laughs along the way. If you love old-school wrestling stories straight from the guys who lived it, you do NOT want to miss this episode. For bookings, autographs, or to order signed copy of the Eddie Gilbert book: Email: DougGilbertPodcast@Outlook.com Pick up your Memphis Mafia & Gilbert Family shirts at: ProWrestlingTees.com (search “Gilbert Family”) Like, comment, and subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com

    1h 8m

  8. 25 JUL

    Dangerous Conversations Episode #45: Working in Japan

    This week on Dangerous Conversations, Gene sits down with Doug for a deep dive into Doug’s unforgettable journey through the world of Japanese pro wrestling!   From his very first tour in 1990 to becoming part of the office for IWA Japan, Doug pulls back the curtain on what it was like to wrestle (and survive!) in the land of strong style. Hear wild stories about brutal matches, riding overnight ferries, navigating language barriers, and chasing fans while dressed as Freddy Krueger.  Learn the real deal behind the Ribera Steakhouse legend, monster gimmick wrestling sponsored by the Japanese movie studios, and how Doug booked top American stars like Terry Funk, Dick Slater, Dick Murdoch and Dan Severn over in Japan.   Doug addresses the Yakuza rumors, insane travel days, Japanese locker room culture, and how Memphis TV helped Japanese talent breakthrough in America and what it meant for them when they got back Japan.   Hard-hitting action. Great travel stories. And how Doug got over huge with a pair of Nikes and a golf club.   You don’t want to miss this incredible trip down memory lane from one of wrestling’s most well-traveled and toughest veterans   Catch the radio version of Dangerous Conversations Wednesday nights at 8:00 PM Subscribe now and relive wrestling history each and every week!   #ProWrestling #DougGilbert #JapanWrestling #MemphisWrestling #DangerousConversations #WrestlingPodcast #RiberaSteakhouse #StrongStyle #IWAJapan #WrestlingHistory This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com

    1h 5m
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Join Memphis Wrestling Hall of Famers "Dangerous" Doug Gilbert & Tommy "Wildfire" Rich as each week they sit down with host Gene Jackson and share stories from the ring and the road, and they may even invite along a guest or two from time to time! retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com

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