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Throughout the 80s, wrestling managers played a prominent role in the WWF. During that time, managers were a key element for nearly all of the top heels (bad guys) of the day. When a top star like Andre the Giant turned heel, he was quickly given a manager. And when a prominent heel like Paul Orndorff became a face (good guy) he quickly beat up his manager to make sure the fans would begin to cheer for him. Managers served a key role: they could cut a promo for the wrestlers that just couldn't work on the mic and get the crowd to hate them nonetheless. Several top stars of the 80s owe much of their initial success to their managers. One manager that stands out as one of the best is this weeks WOW...the Doctor of Style, Slick.

In 1986, the Slickster made history by becoming the first African American manager in WWF(E) history. Upon entering the WWF, Slick quickly became the manager of superstars such as Hercules, The Iron Sheik and Nikolai Volkoff. However, Slick's skill at cutting great promos not only got his wrestlers over with the crowd, it also made him an instant star. His star power quickly culminated with him recording his own theme song and music video, entitled "Jive Soul Bro." This music video is just pure 80s gold! Do yourself a favor and check it out:





Although Slick managed several other wrestlers including the Bolsheviks, The Warlord and Kamala (as the reformed Reverend Slick in the early 90s), his most high profile clients were the devastating team known as the Twin Towers, The Big Bossman and The African Dream, Akeem. The Twin Towers, along with Slick, were featured in a high profile feud with the Mega Powers, Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage. The feud culminated with a nationally televised tag team match shown on NBC. Although the match was overshadowed by the break up of the Mega Powers after the match, Slick stole the show prior to the match with a promo in which he revealed his "Law's of Wrestling Dynamics."




Although it is hard to believe, Slick is now currently a minister in Texas. However, he'll always be remembered to me as a Jive Soul Bro!