LEGENDS OF THE RING REPORT & PHOTOS
- 10/12/2008 (7:43:48 pm)
- Georgiann Makropoulos
……
Georgie,
I'll begin with the Ring Roast. I had a VIP package, and have to say it was well worth the price. The private meet and greet was organized, and all of the personalities were very friendly. Bob Backlund was great, and full of energy. All posed for photos and signed autographs. The only thing missing was the "light buffet" that was supposed to be included. Many fans, including myself were wondering what happened with that, but its no big deal, servers did offer a few appetizers as we waited.
The roast was entertaining. Some great stories were told by Tom Brandi, King Kahlua and General Adnan. Some of the comedians were a little lame, but nothing not worth listening to. King Kong Bundy is hysterical and should have his own show. As far as the "Scott Hall incident" is concerned, I can see why he was offended, and don't blame him for reacting the way he did. As the night progressed, the audience got rowdier, mostly due to the alcohol consumption. Still trying to figure out if Sheik slapping B Brian Blair was a work or shoot. Overall, it was worth the price.
I had a superticket for the LOTR convention and was anticipating the new setup. The first signing block took some time to get through as we had to get out photos first, then go back to get the autographs. This process did take some time, but my photos came out much better this time, and it was well organized. The LOTR staff answered any and all questions and kept things under control. I overheard a few fans complaining about having to wait twice with this new setup, but looking back, I think this system works much better. We don't have to worry about holding items, getting them autographed, getting pictures and having others in the background of our pictures. By the second block, things ran much smoother. Here is a quick rundown of the guests:
Mean Gene: Class act all the way. Very personable, still seems like the party animal he has a reputation for being.
Howard Finkel: Always the best!
Kevin Sullivan: I wonder if he knew where he was. Seemed to zone out many times and was constantly getting distracted, but friendly.
Rene Goulet: Friendly, great to see this rare star.
Razor Ramon: The highlight of my weekend.
General Adnan: Very personable, finally got to meet him after all these years. Thanks to Terrence and James for bringing him out.
Glacier: a gentleman
Killer Bees: Seemed very happy to be there, treated the fans with great respect!
Wendi Richter: A classy lady, still looks great and took an interest in what she was autographing.
Raven: Was very nice, and talkative.
Mr. Fuji: Quiet, but friendly and appeared to be having a great time.
Don Muraco: INCREDIBLE!
Akeem/OMG: Thanked everyone for coming, asked how we wanted items signed, very respectful and friendly.
Jake Roberts: He was nice, but witnessed a few incidents with other fans. Wanted $30.00 to sign the Unmatched Fury figure, which caused several problems. Not sure exactly what condition he was in, but I had no problems. Some people may not "get" his unique sense of humor and may take it as sarcasm. I found his comments entertaining and he's one of my all-time favorite stars. Never had a bad time meeting The Snake.
Iron Sheik: Always the talker, friendly, surprised he remembers stuff about me from 7 years ago, lol. It was great to talk to him for a bit when he wasn't busy towards the end of the day. A great man.
Nikolai Volkoff: still the great singer!
Bob Backlund: Has found the fountain of youth. Looks great.
Powers of Pain: These are two of the best in the business. Both look as though they haven't aged a day since the 80's.
Marty Jannetty: a total character, very happy to be there.
Jimmy Snuka: Can never meet this legend enough times. Was his usual cheerful self, and enjoys meeting his fans.
Tully Blanchard & JJ Dillon: As classy as they were in their 4 Horseman Days.
King Mabel: Thanked me for coming out, gave a handshake, very personable.
RIC FLAIR: I've met The Nature Boy several times over the past few years and he does not disappoint. Ric Flair was Stylin' and Profilin.' He signed autographes anyway you wanted them signed, with whichever color you wanted and wrote quotes, personalized, and took an interest in each fan that went up to him. Ric Flair obviously still enjoys being Ric Flair. There is a mutual respect between Ric and his fans. There is only one Slick Ric! It was great meeting him again.
I had an incredible time at this convention. I know there were people complaining about this or that, some had good experiences with some stars, some did not. I can only speak for myself. I thoroughly enjoyed this past weekend and cannot wait to the next LOTR!
-Mike
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