From its humble beginnings in the Midwest after World War II to its worldwide expansion and eventual dominance of a $25-million-a-year industry, the National Wrestling Alliance's (NWA) rise and fall is detailed in this dramatic tale. While celebrating the great achievements of star wrestlers like Lou Thesz, Ed "Strangler" Lewis, and Buddy Rogers, this history also exposes the inner workings of wrestling, describing in detail the Department of Justice's investigation of the NWA's operating procedures. The comprehensive study of NWA promoters and how their relationships to influential politicians, writers, and each other protected their interests for more than 50 years offers an inside look at wrestling's complicated legacy, revealing the intricate conspiracies of this century-old brand of entertainment.

Tim Hornbaker's profile page

Timothy Hornbaker has been a professional-wrestling researcher for 10 years. He lives in Miami.

"Well-researched . . . brings back such names as Vincent McMahon Sr. and the 'father' of the NWA, Sam Muchnick."  —The Slammer, New York Daily News

"A great history of the NWA, the ownership, the history of the NWA title, and promotional aspects of the federation. . . . 9 out of 10."  —A1 Wrestling Newsletter

"One of the best wrestling books ever written. . . . I highly recommend this book for any wrestling library."  —411mania.com

"Recommended to anyone that is a fan of the golden era of pro wrestling."  — About.com

"The most comprehensive and well-written reference piece associated with the business of professional wrestling. . . . Highest possible recommendation." —GeorgiaWrestlingHistory.com

"If I were to teach a course on the history of professional wrestling, this would be the text book."  —alanwojcik.com