Jim Herd

Jim Herd (born James Herd; March 24, 1939) is an American former television production executive and professional wrestling executive. He served as the Executive Vice President of World Championship Wrestling (WCW) from 1988 to 1992, following Turner Broadcasting's acquisition of Jim Crockett Promotions.

Jim Herd
1st Executive Vice President of World Championship Wrestling
In office 1988–1992
Preceded by	Office established
Succeeded by	Kip Frey
15th President of National Wrestling Alliance
In office 1991–1992
Preceded by	Jim Crockett, Jr.
Succeeded by	Seiji Sakaguchi
Personal details
Born	James Herd (1939-03-24) March 24, 1939 (age 86)
Nationality	American

Early life

Herd held positions in the broadcasting and food service sectors. He served as a station manager for KPLR-TV in St. Louis, Missouri, ^[1][2] a channel that aired the then-popular wrestling program Wrestling at the Chase. Subsequently, he worked as a regional manager for Pizza Hut. ^[1]

Business career

World Championship Wrestling (1988–1992)

Inauguration and initiatives

In 1988, Herd was appointed as the inaugural Executive Vice President of WCW, with his official tenure commencing on January 3, 1989. One of his first initiatives undertaken was to model the success of the World Wrestling Federation (WWF)--which embraced a positive family-friendly image.-- This was achieved by introducing various gimmicks and characters with the intention of broadening WCW's appeal, especially to the younger demographic. One such initiative was the creation of "The Ding Dongs," a tag team portrayed by The Rock 'n' Roll Rebels, donning an all-red outfit with a visual representation of a bell. This gimmick did not resonate with many fans and critics. ^[3] Another concept was "The Hunchbacks," a tag team idea where the wrestlers' physical characteristics (the hump) would ostensibly prevent them from being pinned. This idea was not widely accepted within the company. and was ultimately never implemented.^[4]

Herd was also known for his promotional partnerships, particularly with the movie RoboCop 2. As part of this collaboration, Herd organised a dedicated Pay-Per-View event called Capital Combat, where RoboCop appeared alongside professional wrestler Sting.

Conflicts and subsequent departure

Herd’s tenure saw several internal conflicts, particularly with prominent wrestler Ric Flair. Disputes arose over proposed changes to Flair's wrestling persona and contractual disagreements. Herd reportedly suggested that Flair adopt a gladiator-inspired gimmick named ‘Spartacus,’ ^[5] which Flair and some within the company reportedly opposed. Herd wanted Flair to lose the WCW World Heavyweight Championship and undergo a significant change in his physical appearance, which consisted of shaving his head. Flair was also expected to take a pay cut.^[6] Flair balked at Herd's proposition. Herd would terminate Flair's contract and invalidate his status as the recognized holder of the WCW World Heavyweight Championship on July 1, 1991, however, Flair still retained possession of the physical championship belt, which he took with him upon exiting the company. ^[5]

Herd resigned from his position as Executive Vice President on January 8, 1992. ^[7]