Hampton, VA - August 28, 1961

    When pro wrestling returned to Hampton, VA in August 1961, the new promoter was Jim Murdock who booked wrestlers from Jim Crockett promotions for his shows. Though his first card did not draw well (42 paid), that would soon change. Mr. Murdock would continue to promote shows there well into 1966. Prior to becoming a promoter, Mr. Murdock had worked as referee and timekeeper for shows that appear to promoted by "The Elephant Boy" who ran some shows in Virginia during 1959-1960.

    During March of 1965, Mr. Murdock purchased the Sports Arena. He did not own it very long as he put it up for sale in August 1965.

    The largest crowd reported during the years 1961 through 1966 was a standing room only crowd of 1600 fans on January 24, 1962. The main event that night was then United States Heavyweight Champion Pat O'Connor versus "The Angel". There is a lot of history to be found in these cards such as fans attacking wrestlers and police even getting involved in a match or two.