Episode Details

Ringside in Rose City – Episode 46: Who We Haven't Talked About – Part 1

Not every wrestler was a main event star. Some were future champions finding their footing. Some arrived at just the wrong time. Others left behind memorable careers that deserve another look.This week, Frank Culbertson and Portland wrestling historian Mike Rodgers shine the spotlight on the wrestlers who helped shape Portland Wrestling but rarely receive the attention they deserve. It's the first installment of a new series celebrating the forgotten names, fascinating careers, and unexpected stories that filled out the cards at the Portland Sports Arena. Among the wrestlers featured are Abbud Dein, the son of King Curtis Iaukea whose mysterious interview style made him one of the most unique personalities of the late 1980s; Alexis Smirnoff, the Russian villain whose Northwest stay ended almost as quickly as it began; Art Crews, who returned to Portland transformed from a bland babyface into one of the territory's most entertaining heels; Barry Orton, uncle of Randy Orton and member of wrestling's legendary Orton family; and Avalanche, later known as PN News, whose enormous size made him an unforgettable part of Portland's final years. Frank and Mike also revisit the careers of Billy White Cloud, Brian Adias, Dennis Stamp, Gene Kelly (Gene Lewis), Jeff Portz, Hiro Ota (Yasu Fujii), Ivan Zarnoff, Mike York, Mr. Seki (Mr. Pogo), and Pierre LeGrand, sharing stories that range from bizarre gimmicks and famous wrestling families to championship runs, memorable feuds, and career paths that took these wrestlers around the world.Along the way, Mike uncovers little-known facts, recalls unforgettable matches, and explains why even the wrestlers who spent little time in Portland played an important role in building one of wrestling's greatest territories. Before the conversation is over, Frank and Mike realize they've barely scratched the surface—setting up the first-ever "to be continued" episode in Ringside in Rose City history.Hosted by Frank Culbertson and Portland wrestling historian Mike Rodgers.One ring. One city. A thousand stories.New episodes of Ringside in Rose City drop every Friday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.