"Cannonball Shoot Chronicles: The PN News Story – From WCW to Europe’s Wrestling Glory"

Step into the extraordinary journey of PN News, the charismatic "Rapmaster" who made waves in WCW, became a sensation in Europe as "Cannonball Grizzly," and left an indelible mark on professional wrestling. In this exclusive shoot interview, PN News reveals the untold stories of his rise in the industry, from his humble beginnings as a college football player to being scouted in the unlikeliest of places—a bar in Wisconsin. With candid insights, he recounts his rigorous training at Brad Rheingans’ camp and the grueling 300-day schedules that defined wrestling in the 1980s.Explore his transformative years in the Pacific Northwest under Don Owens, where legends like Buddy Rose and Matt Borne helped shape his career. Learn about his adventures in Europe, where he became "Cannonball Grizzly," captivating audiences with agility and charisma rarely seen in wrestlers of his size. PN News shares his thoughts on iconic figures like Kurt Hennig, Fit Finlay, and Chris Benoit, while giving listeners a peek behind the curtain of wrestling psychology, backstage pranks, and the unique challenges of working in territories across the globe.This episode dives deep into the cultural contrasts between wrestling in the U.S. and Europe, PN News’ memorable moments in CWA tournaments, and the legacy of legendary promoters like Otto Wanz. Whether you’re a wrestling historian or a casual fan, this interview is a treasure trove of insights, laughter, and rare stories that will leave you wanting more. Join us as PN News shares the highs, the lows, and the unforgettable moments that defined his illustrious career.Getting into Wrestling (00:01–02:38): PN News transitioned from college football to wrestling after a chance encounter while working at a bar in Wisconsin. He trained at Brad Rheingans’ camp associated with the AWA, debuting in March 1987.Early Training and Matches (02:38–04:40): PN News adapted quickly to the physical demands due to his athletic background. His first match in the Minneapolis Auditorium was memorable despite his inexperience, with Rick Ganner helping carry the match.Mentors and Influence in AWA (05:10–06:06): Kurt Hennig played a significant role, sharing advice on ring psychology that resonated later. PN News was also a victim of Hennig’s notorious pranks.Pacific Northwest (06:06–07:37): Working for Don Owens in Portland was pivotal. PN News credits Owens and veteran colleagues like Buddy Rose and Matt Borne for shaping his career and knowledge of wrestling psychology.International Career (09:07–12:50): PN News gained significant exposure in Europe, particularly with CWA in Germany and Austria. He became "Cannonball Grizzly" due to his unique agility for a wrestler of his size, and the European system's psychology and round format were distinct from U.S. wrestling.CWA and European Wrestling Scene (14:14–16:22): Life in Europe was characterized by long tournaments in cities like Vienna and Hanover. He appreciated the relaxed lifestyle and cultural immersion while working for promoters like Otto Wanz.Memories of Opponents (16:55–17:56): PN News enjoyed working with European talent, including Fit Finlay, Tony Sinclair, and Danny Collins. He respected Otto Wanz as a promoter despite the decline of CWA in its later years.Chris Benoit (18:25): PN News shared positive memories of working with Chris Benoit in Europe. They shared a dressing room with wrestlers like Scott Hall and Charles Wright, having enjoyable times together.

Om Podcasten

Welcome to "Wrestling Shoot Interviews," the podcast that takes you behind the curtain of the squared circle, featuring raw and uncensored conversations with the biggest names and personalities in the industry. From legends of the ring to the architects behind the scenes, we cover the entire spectrum of professional wrestling's rich history and dynamic present.Dive into the world of Ox Baker, whose fearsome presence and Heart Punch left fans in awe, and journey through the strategic mind of Bill Watts, a master promoter and wrestler. Revel in the tales of the New World Order (NWO)'s dominance and Bret "The Hitman" Hart's technical prowess, which have captivated fans worldwide.But our canvas stretches even wider, bringing in voices like Missy Hyatt, whose pioneering persona shattered glass ceilings, and Shawn Michaels, whose in-ring storytelling is unparalleled. Hear from "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair on his illustrious career and the life lessons learned from decades on top, and Roddy Piper, whose charisma and intensity brought psychology and entertainment to new heights.Sting's transformation and enduring legacy, Sabu's death-defying style, and Rob Van Dam's innovative offense are all dissected here. We delve into the minds of Tod Gordon and Paul Heyman, the visionaries who revolutionized the industry with ECW, and Jake "The Snake" Roberts, whose dark charisma and psychological warfare left an indelible mark on fans and peers alike.Hear heartfelt stories from Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart, insights from the controversial Scott Steiner, and reflections from the enigmatic Ultimate Warrior. Explore the strategic minds of Jim Cornette and Vince Russo, polar opposites whose impacts on wrestling are still debated today.Dusty Rhodes shares tales from the road and his vision for the sport, while Raven discusses the art of character work and storytelling. Sunny and Missy Hyatt open up about their experiences as pioneering women in wrestling, breaking barriers and setting the stage for future generations.From the unforgettable Kamala to the managerial genius of Gary Hart, from the high-flying Koko B. Ware to the hardcore legend Axl Rotten,"Wrestling Shoot Interviews: Legends and Trailblazers" is your unparalleled podcast series that offers an immersive journey into the lives, careers, and uncensored stories of professional wrestling's most iconic figures and unsung heroes. Each episode is a deep dive into the history, controversies, and legendary moments that have shaped the world of wrestling.The Legacy of Black Jack Mulligan - Explore the rugged life of Black Jack Mulligan, a true giant of the ring known for his imposing size and wild brawls that captivated audiences across the globe.Inside the Mind of Bobby 'The Brain' Heenan - Delve into the genius of Bobby "The Brain" Heenan, the greatest manager in wrestling history, whose wit and wisdom transcended the sport.Tony Schiavone - The Voice of Wrestling - Listen to the stories of Tony Schiavone, whose distinctive voice narrated some of wrestling's most memorable moments, and his journey through the golden eras of WCW and beyond.Jesse 'The Body' Ventura - From the Ring to the Governor's Mansion - Discover the multifaceted career of Jesse Ventura, from his time as a colorful and outspoken wrestler to his tenure as the Governor of Minnesota.The Iron Sheik - Unbridled and Unmatched - Hear from the Iron Sheik, a symbol of patriotism and villainy, whose real-life struggles and triumphs are as compelling as his character in the ring.The Honky Tonk Man - Wrestling's Greatest Intercontinental Champion - Relive the reign of The Honky Tonk Man, whose charisma and controversy made him wrestling's greatest Intercontinental Champion.Fit Finlay and Steve Regal - The Craftsmen - Learn from the stories of Fit Finlay and "Lord" Steven Regal, two of the industry's greatest technicians, whose contributions to wrestling's art form span decades.The King's Court with Jerry Lawler - Enter the court of Jerry "The King" Lawler, a legend who reigned supreme in Memphis and battled Andy Kaufman in a feud that blurred the lines between entertainment and reality.Superstar Billy Graham and Bill Dundee - The Pioneers - Experience the charisma and influence of Superstar Billy Graham and "Superstar" Bill Dundee, whose flamboyant styles and promo skills set the standard for future generations.The Darkness of Kevin Sullivan and New Jack - Venture into the dark corners with Kevin Sullivan, the master of psychological terror, and New Jack, whose hardcore style and no-holds-barred interviews pushed the limits of violence and storytelling.The Road Warriors - The Legion of Doom - Join the ride with The Road Warriors, Hawk and Animal, whose sheer power and iconic look dominated tag team wrestling and left an indelible mark on the industry.Macho Man and The Dragon - Rivalries That Defined Wrestling - Feel the intensity of "Macho Man" Randy Savage and "Ricky 'The Dragon' Steamboat," whose legendary rivalry and WrestleMania III match are etched in wrestling lore.The Nasty Boys and The Sandman - The Rule Breakers - Get up close with The Nasty Boys and The Sandman, embodiments of chaos and rebellion whose unconventional styles and personas captivated fans of the hardcore genre."Wrestling Shoot Interviews: Legends and Trailblazers" goes beyond the ring to uncover the real stories, the unseen struggles, and the personal victories of those who lived to tell their tales. Join us as we document the journeys of these icons, providing wrestling fans with an unfiltered look into the industry's past, present, and future. "Wrestling Shoot Interviews" leaves no stone unturned, offering fans an all-access pass to the personalities that have shaped the world of professional wrestling.Join us as we explore the triumphs, the heartaches, the controversies, and the untold stories behind the spectacle. "Wrestling Shoot Interviews" is your definitive source for the real stories of wrestling's icons, told in their own words. This is the heart, soul, and raw emotion of wrestling, unfiltered and unleashed.