Foreign Object Friday: Big Bossman's nightstick

Get ready for hard times
Courtesy: WWE

By Kevin Hunsperger

@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter

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It was nearly 30 years ago this summer that the Big Bossman made his presence known in the WWF. The former body guard known as Big Bubba Rogers had jumped from the UWF/NWA/WCW and assumed a new personality. As the Bossman, Bubba traded his suit, hat and sunglasses for a correctional uniform, handcuffs and a nightstick. 

More hard times
Courtesy: WWE

Those handcuffs and nightstick became a signature of the Bossman's character. After beating an opponent (usually an enhancement talent) manager Slick would distract the referee long enough for Bossman to cuff his victim to the ropes. Then he'd assault the fallen foe with the nightstick. This was similar to the post match rituals of Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake and his haircuts and later the Undertaker loading a victim into a body bag. 

Foam nightstick

Even the big name opponents fell victim to the nightstick, including the assault on Hulk Hogan on the Brother Love Show, "Macho Man" Randy Savage and Dusty Rhodes. Sometimes the good guys would steal the stick and fight fire with fire. When Bossman turned face in 1990, he still carried the stick and used it when necessary. Of course as good guy, it was a good way to market a foam nightstick to young fans too.

Bossman vs. Nailz
Courtesy: WWE

The ex-con Nailz gave Bossman a taste of his own medicine and battered him with the nightstick after a match. Bossman spent weeks (maybe months) "convalescing" at home in Cobb County, Georgia. Vince McMahon used the phrase on TV and it was the first time I'd ever heard the word (at least that I recall). The feud culminated with a night stick on a pole match at the 1992 Survivor Series. Bossman used the weapon on Nailz and put an end to the feud.

1998 Bossman
Courtesy: WWE

Years later when an updated version of the character returned to the company. Bossman used the nightstick in beating Al Snow, Mick Foley and even "Stone Cold" Steve Austin. It was a great accessory to a legendary character who is missed to this day.