Ric Flair:

The Final Countdown

by James De Medeiros

In 1989, the final countdown referred to Ric Flair’s last chance at the world heavyweight title against Ricky Steamboat at Wrestle War 1989. Today, the final countdown appears to be ticking on the 58 year-old wrestler’s career. Recently, Flair told The Fresno Bee, “I'd like to wrestle for another year. I'd like to walk away with my head held high and know that I had the most illustrious career of anybody alive, in the history of our business. And I think I already have that."

Flair is the most accomplished performer in the history of the industry. He has captured the world heavyweight championship a record setting 16 times, while battling the greatest competitors that have ever entered the sport. He first rose to prominence in the Mid Atlantic territory feuding with the likes of Wahoo McDaniel, Blackjack Mulligan, Greg Valentine, Ricky Steamboat, and Roddy Piper. From there, he exploded onto the international scene first capturing the NWA world title on September 17, 1981. In recent years, Flair has silenced critics calling for his retirement by excelling in matches against many of today’s top performers including Triple H, Shawn Michaels, Randy Orton, Edge, and Kurt Angle.

© 2007 Mid-Atlantic Gateway