This Month in NWA History: Kerry Von Erich
Kerry Von Erich
May 6, 1984
The release of The Iron Claw has interest in the Von Erich legacy at highs not seen in generations!
Though the film chronicles the legendary Texas wrestling family’s countless, heartbreaking lows, it also shines a spotlight on its many highs. The family’s most bittersweet moment came three months after the crushing death of David due to medical complications while the eldest Von Erich son toured Japan.
On May 6, 1984, younger brother Kerry faced National Wrestling Alliance champion Ric Flair in the main event of a memorial scheduled to honor David. In front of more than 45,000 fans packed into Texas Stadium, Kerry pinned “The Nature Boy” with a backslide to win the NWA World’s Heavyweight title.
Though Kerry’s NWA World’s Championship victory was certainly a high point for the often-troubled Von Erich family, the celebration was short-lived.
On May 24, Flair regained the title in Yokosuka, Japan. The finish was scarred by controversy, as Von Erich’s feet were clearly in the ropes during the pinfall. However, the referee’s decision was final, ending Kerry’s reign atop NWA after just a scant 18 days.
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