Retro Wrestling w/ Gene Jackson Episode #45: w/guest “Lord Humongous” Jeff Van Camp

Special Guest Host: Robb HeltThis week on Retro Wrestling with Gene Jackson, we go BIG… literally.Gene is joined by special guest co-host Robb Helt, and together they sit down with the man behind one of the most intimidating masked gimmicks of the 1980s, “Lord Humongous” Jeff Van Camp.From a 6’9", 300 pound defensive tackle at the University of Louisville to becoming one of the most feared monsters in Memphis, Southeastern, Continental, Mid-South, and beyond , Jeff’s journey into wrestling is unlike any other you’ve heard before. After a two hour crash training course from the "King" himself, Jerry Lawler.....Jeff suddenly found himself on the road on wild, weird, and wonderful world of professional wrestling.Highlighted by the quote: "You know you’re over when you get stabbed!”Inside this episode:- How Jerry “The King” Lawler personally trained Jeff inside the Mid-South Coliseum and handed him his first booking sheet.- Early lessons from Buddy Landell (including the story behind Jeff’s first pair of wrestling boots).- The creation of the Lord Humongous gimmick, from pantyhose under the hockey mask to War Machine by KISS as entrance music.- Traveling the Southeastern loop with Austin Idol, Bob Armstrong, Jerry Stubbs, and the Armstrong family.- Getting STABBED by a fan in Jackson, Mississippi during his Mid-South run.- Working an hour long match with Ric Flair and "winning" the NWA Title in Birmingham.- Fishing trips with Scott and Steve Armstrong in Gulf Breeze.- Missed picture money opportunities in Continental Wrestling.- The decision to leave Continental for Bill Watts’ Mid-South territory.Jeff shares incredible firsthand stories about Lance Russell, Gordon Solie, Jim Ross, Ron Fuller, Porkchop Cash, Jake Roberts, John Nord, Dr. Death Steve Williams, and so many more, offering a rare, behind the mask look at territory wrestling during one of its most volatile and magical eras.This isn’t just a career recap.It’s a deep dive into how a football player fell into wrestling… and became a monster! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★