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Jerry Jarrett
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Jerry Winston Jarrett (September 4, 1942 – February 14, 2023) was an American businessman, professional wrestling promoter, and professional wrestler. Along with his long-term business partner Jerry Lawler, he was a key figure in the history of professional wrestling in the Mid-Southern United States.[4] Described as a "wrestling genius", he was inducted into the National Wrestling Alliance Hall of Fame in 2009.[5]

Key Information

Jarrett founded the Memphis, Tennessee–based Continental Wrestling Association in 1977. In 1989, he merged the CWA with the Dallas–based promotion World Class Championship Wrestling, creating the United States Wrestling Association which he sold to Lawler in 1997. In 2002, he co-founded NWA:TNA in Nashville with his son Jeff Jarrett, selling his controlling interest to Panda Energy International later in the same year.

Early life

[edit]

Jarrett was born to Christine "Teeny" Jarrett (1923–1998) in Nashville on September 4, 1942.[1] His parents divorced when he was three. To support Jerry Jarrett and his sister, Christine began working as a ticket vendor at the Nashville Hippodrome for Nick Gulas and Roy Welch, the promoters of NWA Mid-America. Over time Christine Jarrett was given more responsibility by Gulas and Welch, and by the early-1970s, she was promoting shows on their behalf in Indiana and Kentucky.[3] At the age of seven, Jerry Jarrett began selling programs for Gulas and Welch.[1][6]

After receiving a hardship driving license at the age of 14, Jarrett began promoting professional wrestling events: renting buildings, advertising shows, constructing the ring, selling tickets, and stocking refreshments.[1][7] He worked as a promoter until enrolling in Peabody College. After graduating in 1963, Jarrett worked four years for the Murray Ohio Manufacturing Company as a purchasing agent before deciding to pursue a career in professional wrestling. He began working for Welch and Gulas as an office assistant and became a referee by default after a referee was a no-show.[1]

Professional wrestling career

[edit]

While working as a referee in the 1960s, Jarrett became a professional wrestler. His friend Tojo Yamamoto and veteran wrestler Sailor Moran trained him. He wrestled his first match in Hayti, Missouri in 1965. After debuting, Jarrett formed a tag team with Yamamoto.[1][4][8] Jarrett performed primarily for NWA Mid-America for the first few years. Between 1970 and 1976, he won the NWA Mid-America Tag Team Championship once, the NWA World Tag Team Championship (Mid-America version) once, and the NWA Southern Tag Team Championship (Mid-America version) ten times. Jarrett also performed for Gulas' Southeastern Championship Wrestling promotion and won the NWA Tennessee Tag Team Championship in 1975.[9]

In 1977, Jarrett founded the Continental Wrestling Association. In addition to booking the promotion, he also occasionally wrestled. He and Yamamoto became the inaugural CWA World Tag Team Champions in July 1980, losing the belts to Austin Idol and Dutch Mantel the following month.[10] In 1985, Jarrett briefly wrestled under a mask as "Hawaiian Flash".[11]

Jarrett formally retired in 1988, although he came out of retirement in 1993 and 1995 to wrestle on several occasions for his United States Wrestling Association.[4]

Promoting career

[edit]

Continental Wrestling Association (1977–1989)

[edit]
Main article: Continental Wrestling Association

In the early-1970s, Jarrett and his mother began promoting professional wrestling shows on behalf of Gulas in the Memphis area.[12][13] After a dispute with Gulas in 1977, Jerry Jarrett opted to break away beginning a promotion, the Continental Wrestling Association (CWA). With the support of his mother, Jerry Lawler, and Buddy Fuller, Jerry Jarrett built the CWA into a successful promotion, staging events each Monday that regularly sold-out the Mid-South Coliseum and airing television shows each Saturday morning on WMC-TV. In 1981, NWA Mid-America folded due to competition from the CWA, with Gulas selling his territory to Jarrett.[13][14][15]

In 1979, The Freebirds asked Jarrett to play "Free Bird" on their entrances. They first tried it in the Mid-South Coliseum and twirling the house spotlights. As a result, Jarrett became one of the first promoters to use music and videos to promote his roster of wrestlers.[16][6]

In 1984, Jarrett entered into a talent exchange with Bill Watts' Mid-South Wrestling promotion. Jarrett and Lawler advised Watts to bring more young performers into his territory to attract a younger generation of fans, especially females since they would often bring their boyfriends to the shows.[16] In 1988, Jarrett began talks with Verne Gagne, owner of the Minneapolis, Minnesota–based American Wrestling Association, about a potential merger. After negotiations broke down in 1989, Jarrett instead entered into a merger with World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW), a promotion based in Dallas, to create the United States Wrestling Association.[17]

United States Wrestling Association (1989–1995)

[edit]
Main article: United States Wrestling Association

The United States Wrestling Association began promoting shows in Tennessee and Texas in 1989, with Jarrett aspiring to make it a national promotion. In 1990, WCCW withdrew from the USWA after a revenue dispute and folded shortly afterwards.

In 1992, the USWA began a talent exchange program with the World Wrestling Federation. By the mid-1990s, attendances at the Mid-South Coliseum had fallen sharply, and Jarrett sold his stake in the promotion to Jerry Lawler and Larry Burton before it folded in 1997.[18]

World Wrestling Federation (1993–1994)

[edit]

In 1993, Vince McMahon was indicted on suspicion of supplying illegal anabolic steroids to professional wrestlers. Before the trial, McMahon appointed Jarrett to run the company in case he was found guilty and sent to prison. When McMahon was found not guilty, Jarrett left to focus on the USWA.

Various ventures (1995–2002)

[edit]

After stepping back from working in promotion, Jarrett worked as a consultant for World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and the WWF.[7]

In 2001, Jarrett suggested the acquisition of WCW, calculating that he could return the company to profitability by aggressively cutting costs. The WWF acquired the company after WCW programming on TBS and TNT was canceled.[7][1]

NWA:TNA (2002–2005)

[edit]
Main article: NWA:TNA

After the sale of World Championship Wrestling to the World Wrestling Federation and the bankruptcy of Extreme Championship Wrestling, the North American professional wrestling industry lacked a viable competitor to the WWF. Jerry and Jeff Jarrett attempted to fill the void.[19][20] On May 9, 2002, they formed J Sports and Entertainment (JSE), the parent company of NWA:TNA, a new professional wrestling promotion that began airing weekly pay-per-views on In Demand on June 19.[21]

In October 2002, JSE sold a 72% controlling interest in NWA:TNA to Panda Energy.[22][23] Jarrett remained part of the NWA:TNA management team until departing in late-2005 over a dispute about the direction of the company.[24] In October 2005, he introduced professional wrestler Oleg Prudius to WWE, where he became Vladimir Kozlov.[25]

Companies

[edit]

After stepping away from professional wrestling, Jarrett owned a construction company and an international television distribution company.[24][19]

Personal life and death

[edit]

Jarrett had four children: a daughter Jennifer, and sons Jerry Jr., Jeff, and Jason.[2][19] Jerry Jarrett became estranged from Jeff in 2005 after they had disputes about their operations while running NWA:TNA;[7] they reconciled in 2015.[26] Jerry Jarrett was married to Eddie Marlin's daughter Deborah.

Jarrett died while undergoing treatment for esophageal cancer on February 14, 2023, at 80.[18]

Books

[edit]

Jarrett contributed to 2004's The Story of the Development of NWATNA: A New Concept in Pay-Per-View Programming and released the autobiographical The Best of Times in 2011.[27]

Championships and accomplishments

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Jerry Jarrett

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from Grokipedia
Jerry Jarrett (September 4, 1942 – February 14, 2023) was an American professional wrestler, promoter, and booker who played a pivotal role in shaping the Memphis wrestling territory and bridging the gap between the territorial era and modern professional wrestling. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, to Winston Nathaniel Jarrett and Christine “Teeny” Wright Jarrett, he grew up in poverty after his parents' divorce in 1945 and was immersed in the wrestling business from childhood, selling programs at events and assisting with ring setup in small Tennessee towns as early as age seven. Jarrett trained under wrestler Tojo Yamamoto and debuted as a performer in 1965, competing as a mid-card babyface and tag team specialist before retiring from full-time wrestling in the early 1980s to focus on promotion. As a promoter, Jarrett partnered with in the 1970s before acquiring full control of the Memphis territory in 1977, founding the Continental Wrestling Association (CWA), which became renowned for its innovative storytelling, heated rivalries, and stars like Jerry Lawler, Bill Dundee, and Andy Kaufman. In 1989, he merged the CWA with to form the United States Wrestling Association (USWA), expanding its reach across the South and Midwest while emphasizing accessible, fan-friendly programming syndicated on television. Later, Jarrett co-founded Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) in 2002 alongside his son and others, serving as a and executive until 2005, helping pioneer the six-sided ring and weekly pay-per-view model that influenced contemporary wrestling. Jarrett's legacy as one of wrestling's most creative minds earned him induction into the Hall of Fame in 2008, with tributes highlighting his ability to book compelling angles, nurture talent, and sustain regional promotions against national competition. He was the father of professional wrestler —a multi-time world champion—and had sons Jerry Jr. and , and daughter Jennifer; Jarrett passed away in , from complications of .

Early years

Childhood and family background

Jerry Jarrett was born on September 4, 1942, in Nashville, Tennessee, to Winston Nathaniel Jarrett and Christine “Teeny” Wright Jarrett. His parents divorced in 1945 when he was three years old, after which he and his younger sister, Carolyn, were raised primarily by their mother amid financial hardships. Christine Jarrett, originating from a working-class family herself, supported her children by taking a job as a ticket vendor at the Nashville Hippodrome for wrestling promoters Nick Gulas and Roy Welch, whose events drew large crowds in the post-World War II era. Over time, she advanced to assisting with promotions, leveraging her organizational skills to help run shows across the region. From an early age, Jarrett was immersed in the territorial wrestling scene through his mother's involvement, which exposed him to the operations of the industry. At around seven years old, he began selling programs at Gulas and Welch's events, a role that introduced him to the excitement of live crowds and the business's demands. By his teenage years, this evolved into selling concessions and other support tasks at matches, igniting a lifelong passion for while providing small contributions to the family income. The Jarrett family's circumstances reflected the socioeconomic realities of mid-20th-century Nashville, a growing Southern city where many households navigated and limited opportunities in the years following the . Christine's relentless work ethic in the wrestling world not only lifted the family from dire financial straits but also instilled in her son a profound appreciation for and the industry's inner workings. This upbringing in a single-parent home tied closely to the vibrant, community-driven territorial wrestling circuit shaped Jarrett's foundational understanding of the business long before his own professional entry.

Entry into the wrestling industry

Jerry Jarrett entered the industry in 1959 at the age of 17, when he was hired as a by promoter for the promotion. His initial role involved officiating matches across the , providing him with an up-close view of the business's inner workings. Drawing from his family's involvement, where he had sold programs at wrestling events starting at age 7, Jarrett was already familiar with the operational side of promotions run by Gulas and partner . As a young referee, Jarrett encountered significant challenges, including handling rowdy crowds that often tested his authority in heated environments and mastering match to anticipate wrestlers' actions and maintain fairness. These experiences honed his understanding of the performative and strategic elements of wrestling, bridging his administrative beginnings toward active participation. Jarrett trained for an in-ring career under the mentorship of , a respected veteran in the territory who recognized his potential despite initial concerns about his physique. This guidance prepared him for his transition to wrestling, culminating in his professional debut on January 1, 1965, against in , within the structured territorial booking system of the promotion.

In-ring career

Refereeing career

Jarrett's entry into the wrestling business as a for the promotion came in the early 1960s, after he joined the office of promoters and following high school graduation. This role provided him with direct exposure to the inner workings of the territory, allowing him to officiate matches and learn the nuances of the industry on the job. His tenure as a referee lasted until 1965, when he transitioned to wrestling under the training of . During this period, Jarrett worked major events in cities across , , and , refereeing bouts featuring top talent like and the masked the Infernos, known for their intense rivalries and use of fire-themed gimmicks. These assignments placed him in the ring with wrestlers who shaped the territory's style, including Yamamoto, with whom Jarrett developed a relationship that extended beyond officiating. The role demanded constant travel, often by car for multiple shows per week, contributing to a demanding lifestyle typical of the territorial era. Through his position at ringside, Jarrett closely observed match , wrestler strategies, and crowd reactions, which cultivated his early instincts for booking and story development. This foundational experience was crucial, as it gave him an appreciation for how to build compelling narratives and manage audience engagement, skills that proved invaluable in his later roles.

Wrestling career and retirements

Jerry Jarrett began his professional wrestling in 1965 after training under and Sailor Moran. He primarily competed as a in the territorial system, establishing himself as a reliable mid-card babyface in the promotion based in Nashville and Memphis. Throughout the late and , Jarrett worked consistently in this territory, contributing to the region's vibrant wrestling scene through his dependable performances that supported main event attractions. A key aspect of Jarrett's in-ring tenure involved prominent tag team partnerships that drove major storylines. Early on, he teamed with his trainer and mentor , forming a popular babyface duo that engaged in high-profile matches across the Southeast. Later, from 1971 to 1976, Jarrett partnered with the legendary , creating another fan-favorite combination known for their chemistry and crowd appeal in events. These alliances highlighted Jarrett's role in building engaging narratives without positioning him as a top singles draw, emphasizing teamwork and territorial loyalty. Jarrett's style focused on solid fundamentals and in-ring , allowing him to enhance opponents' offense through effective selling while maintaining a clean, technical approach. His contributions helped sustain the territory's reputation for quality mid-card action during the and . By the late , as he transitioned toward behind-the-scenes roles, Jarrett reduced his full-time schedule, leading to semi-retirements influenced by accumulating wear from years of travel and matches. Jarrett formally retired from active competition in 1988 after over two decades in the ring, though he made sporadic comebacks, including appearances in 1993 and 1995 for his own promotions. His retirement from full-time wrestling occurred in the late as he focused on promotion.

Promoting career

(1977–1989)

In 1977, Jerry Jarrett split from longtime promoter ' NWA Mid-America territory due to ongoing disputes over booking decisions and profit distribution, leading to the formation of the independent (CWA) as a breakaway promotion centered in . Jarrett partnered with top star , who left Gulas to join him, creating a direct rivalry that became known as the first Memphis wrestling war; this conflict divided the regional market, with Jarrett securing venues outside the , which Gulas controlled, while promoting in areas like Louisville and Evansville. The split allowed Jarrett to leverage his extensive prior experience as a wrestler and booker to shape the CWA's direction from its inception. The CWA's initial roster featured key talents such as Bill Dundee, who quickly emerged as a lead babyface, and Dutch Mantell, alongside Lawler as the central attraction drawing fans away from Gulas' shows. Jarrett negotiated a crucial television deal with WMC-TV Channel 5 in Memphis, launching weekly broadcasts on Saturday mornings that showcased the promotion's action and helped build a loyal audience in the Mid-South region. Early operations integrated Jarrett's own in-ring performances, where he wrestled sporadically while increasingly focusing on promoting and booking. The CWA introduced several innovations that distinguished it in the territorial era, including a fast-paced wrestling style with "continuous action" matches to maintain viewer engagement during TV tapings and storylines that crossed promotional lines, such as alliances with the (AWA) for talent exchanges. A notable rule required champions to defend titles within 21 days, adding urgency to feuds and encouraging frequent high-stakes bouts. During the 1980s peak, the promotion drew large crowds at venues like the , often exceeding 8,000 attendees per event, bolstered by guest appearances from rising stars like in his early career. Despite achieving regional dominance and cultural impact in Memphis, the CWA faced financial strains amid the broader economic challenges of the , including rising costs and competition from national expansions; Jarrett managed these through prudent budgeting and creative angles that sustained attendance without overextending resources. Key successes included high-profile that packed arenas and solidified the promotion's reputation for innovative storytelling until its operations wound down in 1989.

United States Wrestling Association (1989–1995)

In 1989, Jerry Jarrett merged his Memphis-based (CWA) with Fritz Von Erich's Dallas-based (WCCW) to form the (USWA), creating a unified promotion with shared titles and operations spanning key territories including Memphis, , and Nashville. The merger aimed to position the USWA as a national contender by combining the CWA's strong regional fanbase and production expertise with WCCW's Texas draw, initially co-owned by Jarrett and before Jarrett assumed full control in 1990. This expansion allowed for cross-territory storylines and talent sharing, with Jarrett serving as the primary booker responsible for creative direction while occasionally stepping into the ring as a performer to bolster main events. A cornerstone of the USWA's early success was the heated feud between Jerry Lawler and Kerry Von Erich, which built on pre-merger tensions showcased in a steel cage match at SuperClash III on December 13, 1988—a joint AWA/CWA/WCCW event where Lawler defeated Von Erich to retain the AWA World Heavyweight Championship—carrying momentum into 1989 with title defenses across regions leading to the unification of belts under the new USWA banner. Jarrett emphasized family involvement in booking decisions, notably giving his son Jeff Jarrett an early push as a top heel prospect; Jeff debuted prominently in 1989, capturing the USWA Southern Heavyweight Championship and later multiple world titles under his father's guidance, helping to groom him as a future star. Additional storylines incorporated inter-promotional rivalries, such as the USWA-WCCW territory dispute settled in a steel cage match where Eric Embry defeated Phil Hickerson, and later crossovers with emerging talents from the East Coast Wrestling Federation (ECW), including appearances by Shane Douglas that added hardcore elements to Memphis cards. To support national ambitions, the USWA launched syndicated television programming through "USWA Championship Wrestling," which aired weekly in over 100 markets nationwide starting in 1989, showcasing a mix of local talent like and alongside bigger names to build broader appeal. Jarrett's team also pursued opportunities, producing supercard events like Renegades Rampage in 1990 and Night of the Super Heavyweights, which were taped for potential national distribution but faced distribution hurdles amid competition from WWF and WCW. These efforts initially turned profits, particularly in the branch under Jarrett's management, but were undermined by escalating internal challenges. By the early 1990s, the USWA grappled with talent raids from larger promotions; WCW and WWF aggressively signed away key performers such as and himself in 1993, depleting the roster and disrupting storylines. Financial strains mounted due to rising wrestler salaries, syndication costs, and inability to secure consistent PPV slots against the expanding national monopolies of WWF and WCW, leading to declining attendance and revenue. Jarrett's dual responsibilities as booker and promoter stretched resources thin, and by 1995, mounting debts forced him to relinquish ownership, effectively closing the original USWA iteration after six years of operation.

World Wrestling Federation (1993–1994)

In 1993, amid Vince McMahon's federal indictment on steroid distribution charges, Jarrett was hired as a for the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), leveraging his extensive experience in territorial wrestling promotion to provide guidance during a period of uncertainty for the company. His role involved offering expertise on booking strategies and talent evaluation, particularly as the WWF sought to navigate legal challenges and expand its reach through partnerships. Jarrett's contributions centered on advising Southern-style booking techniques, which influenced the integration of WWF talent into events under his (USWA). He facilitated crossover storylines, such as WWF Champion and his brother Owen defending the title against USWA stars and in a high-profile match that drew significant crowds in Memphis. Additionally, Jarrett helped test Vince McMahon's emerging persona in the USWA territory, allowing the WWF owner to experiment with on-screen villainy in a regional setting before its national rollout. Jarrett's tenure lasted through 1994, overlapping with the ongoing operations of his USWA promotion in Memphis. He departed following McMahon's acquittal in the steroid trial, citing commitments to the USWA as the primary reason, though his brief involvement provided the WWF with valuable insights that subtly shaped its mid-1990s creative direction.

Various independent promotions (1995–2002)

Following the closure of the in 1995, Jerry Jarrett transitioned to advisory roles in smaller regional promotions, leveraging his extensive experience in from the territory era. Throughout the late , Jarrett took on freelance booking gigs for other regional promotions, including brief stints with groups like Independent Pro Wrestling (IPW), where he assisted in event planning and talent scouting. His construction business, established after selling the USWA, provided practical ties to these events by supplying equipment and setup support, allowing him to remain connected to the indie scene without full-time commitment. Adapting to the post-territory landscape proved challenging, as the dominance of ECW and WCW limited resources for smaller groups, forcing Jarrett to prioritize cost-effective storytelling over high-production spectacles. These efforts yielded key outcomes in talent pipelines; Jarrett's networks indirectly aided the early careers of wrestlers like , who debuted in in 1999 and benefited from the structured development in the indie scene during this period. His mentorship emphasized long-term career building, contributing to the indie scene's evolution as a breeding ground for national talent.

NWA:TNA (2002–2005)

In 2002, Jerry Jarrett co-founded (TNA) alongside his son , with financial backing from Bob Carter of and an affiliation with the (NWA), launching the promotion as a groundbreaking weekly series to circumvent the challenges of obtaining national television distribution in a WWE-dominated landscape. The inaugural NWA:TNA event occurred on June 19, 2002, at the in , featuring a main event "" to crown the NWA World Heavyweight Champion, which highlighted the promotion's emphasis on athletic, non-stop competition. As TNA's head booker and creative force, Jarrett steered the promotion toward innovative in-ring elements, including the introduction of a six-sided ring in early to allow for more dynamic movement and multi-directional action, as well as the establishment of the X-Division, a weight-class-free division that prioritized high-flying, hardcore, and technical wrestling styles over traditional big-man storytelling. These features aimed to differentiate TNA from mainstream competitors by fostering an environment for undercard talents like , , and to shine in showcase matches, such as the annual X-Division Title bouts that became staples of the weekly PPVs. Events were primarily held at the Tennessee State Fairgrounds in , where logistical challenges like limited seating capacity and production setup in the historic livestock arena tested the team's resourcefulness. TNA achieved a significant milestone in 2004 by securing a television contract with Fox Sports Net, debuting the weekly one-hour program Impact! on June 4 from the Soundstage 21 studios in , which supplemented the PPV model and broadened the promotion's reach to approximately 40 million households. Despite this growth, the early years involved persistent financial strains, including the need for personal investments from the Jarretts to cover talent contracts and operational costs amid fluctuating PPV buy rates that hovered around 30,000 to 50,000 per event. Jarrett's tenure ended in late 2005 following escalating creative disagreements with emerging management, including a public fallout exacerbated by reports of internal meetings that undermined the promotion's stability. His exit marked the close of an era where his territorial promotion experience had directly informed TNA's scrappy setup and emphasis on regional talent development.

Personal life and death

Marriage and family

Jerry Jarrett was first married to Julie, with whom he had two sons: , born in 1967, and Jerry Jarrett Jr. The couple later divorced, after which Jarrett met Deborah Marlin, the daughter of fellow wrestling promoter and longtime business associate . Jarrett married on March 2, 1972, and their union lasted 51 years until his death in 2023. With , Jarrett had two more children: son Jarrett and daughter Jennifer Jarrett, who later married Tate Mathews. provided steadfast support during Jarrett's extensive career travels, managing the family home in the Nashville area while he promoted wrestling events across the region. The Jarrett family was deeply intertwined with , reflecting a multi-generational dynasty. Jarrett raised his son in the industry from a young age, training him as a wrestler and involving him in promotional operations, which laid the foundation for 's own successful career as a performer and executive. This father-son collaboration peaked in 2002 when they co-founded the promotion now known as TNA (), blending family ties with business innovation. Daughter Jennifer and son also engaged with the family business to varying degrees, contributing to events and operations over the years. Beyond wrestling, the Jarretts maintained a close-knit home life in Hendersonville and later , where Jarrett prioritized family gatherings and personal milestones. The couple's four children went on to give them several grandchildren, including those from Jeff's marriage to , fostering a legacy of familial bonds outside the ring.

Later years and death

After departing from Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) in late 2005 amid disagreements over the company's creative direction, Jarrett became estranged from his son Jeff, who remained involved with the promotion, and the two did not speak for nearly a decade. They reconciled in 2015, with Jeff publicly acknowledging the renewed family bond during a TNA broadcast, though Jarrett did not return to an active role in wrestling. In his later years, Jarrett focused on business interests outside , including ownership of a firm in the Nashville area, where he had transitioned into the industry during the 1980s. He resided in Hendersonville and later , maintaining a low public profile away from the wrestling spotlight. Jarrett was diagnosed with in the years leading up to his death, undergoing treatment for the illness. Jarrett died on February 14, 2023, at his home in , at the age of 80, from a heart attack suffered while receiving . His funeral was held as a celebration of life service on February 21, 2023, which was livestreamed for wrestling fans and industry figures. Tributes poured in from family and peers, including son , who shared emotional reflections on their reconciliation, and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, who credited Jarrett for early support in his career. issued a statement honoring Jarrett's influential legacy as a promoter and father to Hall of Famer .

Championships and accomplishments

Wrestling championships

Throughout his wrestling career in the and , Jerry Jarrett primarily excelled as a specialist in the National Wrestling Alliance's Mid-America territory, capturing multiple regional championships that underscored his role in territorial promotions centered in and . These titles, often defended in high-stakes matches across the , helped build Jarrett's reputation as a reliable babyface performer alongside partners, contributing to the territory's draw during an era when drove attendance in arenas like the . Jarrett's most notable success came with the NWA Southern Tag Team Championship (Mid-America version), a key title in the Nick Gulas-promoted promotion that symbolized dominance in the region's tag division. He secured eight documented reigns between 1970 and 1976, frequently partnering with mentors (five times), (two times), and Roughhouse Fargo (once), whose combined experience elevated Jarrett from a mid-card talent to a main event draw. These reigns often involved intense feuds with heel teams like the Greene Brothers, highlighting Jarrett's technical prowess and resilience in multi-man bouts typical of Southern territorial wrestling. In addition to his Mid-America accomplishments, Jarrett ventured into adjacent territories, winning the NWA Tennessee Tag Team once in 1975 alongside by defeating the in Nashville. This victory briefly expanded his reach into Southeastern Championship Wrestling under Gulas' banner, reinforcing his versatility across NWA-affiliated groups before his transition to promoting. Jarrett continued to compete sporadically after focusing on promotion, winning the CWA World Tag Team once in 1980 with . Overall, Jarrett's tag team focus—spanning over a dozen combined reigns—exemplified the collaborative nature of territorial wrestling, where partnerships like his with Yamamoto were instrumental in sustaining weekly house shows and television ratings.
ChampionshipReignsPartnersKey Details
NWA Southern Tag Team Championship (Mid-America version)8 (1970–1976) (5 times), (2 times), Roughhouse Fargo (1 time)Won first documented reign with Yamamoto in October 1970; notable victories included defeating Don & Al Greene on January 9, 1971, in Chattanooga, TN; & Jarrett winning their sixth overall on March 19, 1973, in Memphis, TN; defeating Al Greene & Phil Hickerson on October 7, 1974, in Memphis, TN; and & Jarrett defeating Don Greene & The Scorpion on June 14, 1976, in Memphis, TN. Reigns typically lasted weeks to months, defended in events.
NWA Tennessee Tag Team Championship1 (1975)Defeated Ron Wright & Don Wright on May 7, 1975, in Nashville, TN; short reign amid territorial crossovers with Southeastern Championship Wrestling.
CWA World Tag Team Championship1 (1980)Won on July 14, 1980; part of Jarrett's occasional in-ring appearances while promoting.

Promoting accomplishments and honors

As a promoter, Jerry Jarrett introduced several innovations that shaped , particularly through his work with the Continental Wrestling Association (CWA). He pioneered a weekly television format that emphasized serialized storytelling and character development, turning wrestling shows into engaging, soap opera-style programs that built long-term feuds and drew consistent viewership; this approach became a template for modern wrestling television production. Jarrett also experimented with cross-promotional events, such as talent exchanges and joint shows with promotions like the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and the merger of CWA with to form the (USWA), which expanded reach and revitalized regional territories during the late 1980s. Jarrett's talent development system in the CWA and USWA focused on grooming young wrestlers through hands-on booking and exposure on television, producing stars like and while emphasizing athletic matches alongside dramatic angles; this model influenced independent promotions and later contributed to the foundational roster of (TNA), where he co-founded the company in 2002 to provide opportunities for indie talent in a post-WCW/ECW landscape. Additionally, he advanced wrestling's entertainment value by integrating elements like entrance music and video packages to enhance character personas, as seen in his creative handling of teams like the Rock 'n' Roll Express, and by inventing the scaffold match in 1971—a high-risk involving combat on an elevated platform, which he first competed in against Don Greene. Jarrett received numerous honors for his promoting legacy. He was inducted into the in 2009 for his contributions as a territorial promoter and innovator. In 2018, he entered the Hall of Fame, recognizing his booking prowess and success in building the CWA into a dominant Southern promotion. He was also enshrined in the Memphis Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1994, honoring his role in elevating the city's wrestling scene. The acknowledged his impact posthumously in 2024 by including him in their trading card set, celebrating his dual legacy as wrestler and promoter. Following Jarrett's death on February 14, 2023, at age 80, the wrestling community issued widespread tributes highlighting his enduring influence. TNA (now IMPACT Wrestling), which he co-founded as NWA:TNA, released a statement expressing condolences and crediting him as a visionary founder whose innovations laid the groundwork for the promotion's weekly model and talent pipeline. issued a remembrance noting his status as a "hugely influential figure in sports-entertainment" who bridged eras through creative promotion. These tributes, along with specials and discussions on platforms like The Ringer, underscored Jarrett's role in shifting wrestling toward more narrative-driven, entertainment-focused spectacles that influenced contemporary independent and national promotions.

Publications

Books and media appearances

Jerry Jarrett authored The Story of the Development of NWATNA: A New Concept in Pay-Per-View Programming in 2004, which details the founding of (TNA), including its innovative weekly pay-per-view model and the challenges faced in launching the promotion. He later authored the autobiography The Best of Times in 2011, co-written with Mark James, which chronicles his life from humble beginnings in Nashville to his extensive career as a wrestler and promoter, emphasizing themes of success, betrayal, and resilience outside the ring. The book draws on Jarrett's personal journals and provides detailed insights into his booking strategies and territorial promotions, particularly in Memphis. Jarrett contributed interviews and accounts to several wrestling history publications, including the Memphis Wrestling History series by Mark James, which features his perspectives on key events like the 1977 Memphis wrestling war and the rise of the Continental Wrestling Association. He is also profiled in The WWE Encyclopedia of Sports Entertainment (2016 edition), highlighting his role in shaping Southern wrestling territories and his brief stint with the World Wrestling Federation. In media, Jarrett appeared in the 2011 documentary Memphis Heat: The True Story of Memphis Wrasslin', where he discussed the carnival origins and golden era of Memphis promotion alongside figures like and . He featured prominently in the 2022 episode of Tales from the Territories titled "Memphis: Where Wrestling Was Real," participating in a roundtable with family members and peers to recount the creative and business aspects of the Continental Wrestling Association. Archival footage of Jarrett from his TNA (Total Nonstop Action Wrestling) involvement, including production credits for TNA iMPACT! Wrestling from 2004 onward, has been used in TNA's historical compilations like The History of TNA: Year 1 (2007). Jarrett hosted the podcast Booking Memphis Wrestling with Jerry Jarrett starting in 2018, where he shared in-depth stories on booking fundamentals, NWA dynamics, and collaborations with wrestlers like Jerry Lawler. He made guest appearances on shows such as My World with Jeff Jarrett, discussing family legacy and territorial innovations. Following his death in 2023, tributes appeared on Wrestling Observer Radio, with a dedicated episode exploring his career impact through discussions with Dave Meltzer and guests. While Jarrett's two books provide primary accounts, much of the available personal and professional insights rely on secondary sources, interviews, and posthumous analyses, as he did not author additional extensive memoirs.

References

  1. https://www.sumnerfuneral.com/obituaries/jerry-jarrett
  2. https://www.commercialappeal.com/story/entertainment/2023/02/15/jerry-jarrett-dies-obit-memphis-wrestling-promoter/69906452007/
  3. https://slamwrestling.net/features/jerry-jarrett-to-me-it-is-the-journey-and-not-the-destination-that-is-important/
  4. https://prowrestling.fandom.com/wiki/Jerry_Jarrett
  5. https://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profile/jerry-jarrett/
  6. https://www.postandcourier.com/sports/wrestling/jerry-jarrett-changed-landscape-of-professional-wrestling/article_efee3ac6-b481-11ed-bc09-cff1e080909a.html
  7. https://www.tennessean.com/story/money/2015/04/10/gfw-jarett-wrestling-family-tradition-continues/25599177/
  8. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/11082261/sadie_christine-jarrett
  9. https://www.postwrestling.com/2023/02/14/legendary-promoter-and-booker-jerry-jarrett-passes-away/
  10. https://kayfabememories.com/Interviews/jjarrett-2.htm
  11. https://www.postandcourier.com/sports/wrestling/hope-always-sprang-eternal-for-wrestling-legend-jerry-jarrett/article_a2e5c14a-ba12-11ed-8416-fb6a3822ff72.html
  12. https://www.f4wonline.com/news/other-wrestling/interview-jerry-jarrett-talks-all-about-his-journey-wrestling-industry-199016/
  13. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=1556
  14. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=28&nr=8824
  15. https://www.prowrestling.fandom.com/wiki/Jerry_Jarrett
  16. https://slamwrestling.net/legend/jerry-jarrett/
  17. https://prowrestlingstories.com/pro-wrestling-stories/united-states-wrestling-association-uswa/
  18. https://prowrestlingstories.com/pro-wrestling-stories/wwf-uswa/
  19. https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1057103/wrestling-promotions-that-tried-to-compete-with-the-wwe-and-failed/
  20. https://whatculture.com/wwe/10-most-undeserved-pushes-in-wwe-history?page=9
  21. http://wrestlingclassics.com/cgi-bin/.ubbcgi/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=next_topic%3Bf=1%3Bt=139540%3Bgo=older
  22. https://www.cagematch.net/en/?id=1&nr=432402
  23. https://johnlisterwrestling.com/vince-mcmahons-1993-memphis-heel-run-2013/
  24. https://www.f4wonline.com/news/other-wrestling/legendary-memphis-promoter-jerry-jarrett-passes-away-at-80-years-old/
  25. https://www.ewrestlingnews.com/editorial/the-history-of-tna-wrestling-series-2002
  26. https://slamwrestling.net/interviews/catching-up-with-jerry-jarrett/
  27. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1243912/bio/
  28. https://kentuckyfriedwrestling.com/the-best-of-the-bookers-jerry-jarretts-new-bio-recalls-the-best-and-worst-of-times/
  29. https://www.angelfire.com/wrestling/slapnutscountry/jerry.html
  30. https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/legendary-promoter-jerry-jarrett-passes-away
  31. https://www.voicesofwrestling.com/2015/07/30/tna-impact-wrestling-on-destination-america-july-29-review-hall-of-famer-jeff-jarrett/
  32. https://kayfabememories.com/Interviews/jjarrett.htm
  33. https://www.wrestleview.com/top-story/261638-legendary-memphis-wrestling-promoter-jerry-jarrett-has-passed-away/
  34. https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2023/02/14/jerry-jarrett-dead-at-the-age-of-80/
  35. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hqjs8UnmEbs
  36. https://people.com/sports/dwayne-johnson-pays-tribute-to-former-pro-wrestler-jerry-jarrett/
  37. https://www.wwe.com/article/wwe-remembers-jerry-jarrett
  38. http://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/memphis/titles/southerntag.html
  39. https://www.wrestling-titles.com/us/tn/tn-t.html
  40. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=17370
  41. https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1201033/jerry-jarrett-is-responsible-for-the-best-wrestling-tv-of-all-time/
  42. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/776309-wwe-history-cross-promotions-of-the-90s-are-punk-roh-reviving-a-tradition
  43. https://www.kayfabememories.com/Regions/memphis/memphis-cwa21-2.htm
  44. https://prowrestlingstories.com/pro-wrestling-stories/tna-legacy-chaos-innovation-impact/
  45. https://www.thesportster.com/inventors-iconic-gimmick-matches-wwe-royal-rumble-wargames-hell-in-a-cell/
  46. https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2023/02/14/jerry-jarrett-dead-at-80/
  47. https://www.localmemphis.com/article/sports/local-sports/former-pro-wrestler-memphis-wrestling-promoter-jerry-jarrett-dies-age-80/522-22866f67-6897-4b4d-a92c-87539d395bd6
  48. https://www.thesmackdownhotel.com/wrestlers/jerry-jarrett
  49. https://www.caulifloweralleyclub.org/jerry-jarrett-passes-away
  50. https://filsingergames.com/legendscac2024-2/
  51. https://www.wrestlingnewssource.com/news/80635/IMPACT-Wrestling-Pay-Tribute-To-Jerry-Jarrett/
  52. https://slamwrestling.net/news/wrestling-world-mourns-the-loss-of-legend-jerry-jarrett/
  53. https://www.amazon.com/Story-Development-NWATNA-Pay-View/dp/1412028787
  54. https://www.amazon.com/Best-Times-Jerry-Jarrett/dp/1463662343
  55. https://slamwrestling.net/archive/jerry-jarretts-book-offers-a-lifetime-of-lessons/
  56. http://www.memphiswrestlinghistory.com/book.html
  57. https://www.shortform.com/best-books/genre/best-wwe-books-of-all-time
  58. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1570104/
  59. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt23018246/
  60. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1243912/
  61. https://tunein.com/podcasts/Sports--Recreation-Podcasts/Booking-Memphis-Wrestling-with-Jerry-Jarrett-p1127965/
  62. https://www.youtube.com/MyWorldWithJeffJarrett
  63. https://www.f4wonline.com/news/video/the-life-and-times-of-jerry-jarrett-wrestling-observer-radio/
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