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http://kayfabememories.com/Stories/mickkarch/mk26.htm

When Nick Bockwinkel first appeared in the AWA in late 1970, his
eloquence, interview style and aura made him an instant hit with the
more college crowd. He was unlike any heel to come before him: no
screaming and yelling, no 'I'm gonna rip his throat out.' Just million
dollar words and an 'arrogance' that infuriated fans of the babyfaces.

The college kids, who were fans of the 'heels' by nature, loved it. So
much so that in 1972, Nick was voted by the student body of Augsburg
College, a prestigious institution in Minneapolis, as the man they
would most like to have speak at their campus. Nick accepted a
speaking engagement there.

I took time off of work to attend the event. I remember very well Nick
dressed in his dapper fashion, expensive sports jacket, shirt opened
up at the collar, handkerchief in the pocket. He had an amazing
presence when he sauntered up to the microphone to the cheers of the
students. He informed them that he would take questions about
wrestling after the speech, which he did (the expected questions about
wrestling's authenticity, his toughest opponents...and as you might
expect from the campus crowd, his sex life!)

However, the main thrust of his speech was on 'individuality.' How to
be yourself!! How to, within reason, not be afraid to question
authority! Always do the right thing, he told the things, but above
all, have enough backbone to rely on yourself...your inner
strengths...be your own person, damn it!!!!

After the speech was over, I watched with delight as Nick, having just
lectured on individuality, got himself turned around in the building,
couldn't find his way out, and red-faced and sheepishly had to ask a
student..."uh, excuse me....could you help me find the door closest to
the parking lot?"

As has been the case for the 32 years I've known him, the SOB got the
last laugh on me, though. After I watched him finally get out of the
building, I turned around and accidentally walked into a plate glass
door.

Figures.


--- Internet Rex 2.29