Episode
WRAL's Chris Lea on Dorton Arena: The Untold History of Mid-Atlantic Wrestling
- Published
- Jun 4, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 626
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Summary
WRAL's Chris Lee on Emmy-Winning Dorton Arena Documentary "When Giants Walked Here" WATCH THE FULL DOC HERE: https://www.pbs.org/show/when-giants-walked-here/ On Bold North State Overtime on the North Carolina Sports Network, host Mike Waddell talks with WRAL weekday sports anchor and former pro wrestler Chris Lea about his North Carolina PBS documentary, "When Giants Walked Here," exploring the history and impact of Raleigh's Dorton Arena. Lea recounts how a cold email from former WRAL employee Cliff Baumgartner led to a project that grew from a planned 10-minute YouTube video into a PBS release that premiered in August 2024 and won an Emmy in February. They discuss Dorton's role in Mid-Atlantic wrestling history, including the Ric Flair vs. Buddy Landel match, Prince's concert, and how Dorton's 1984 renovations may have contributed to Roddy Piper being stabbed at the Civic Center. Lee shares his family ties to the venue and notes the film is currently available on the PBS app, with more distribution possibly coming.00:00 Dorton Arena Magic00:40 Meet Mike and Chris01:16 Making the Documentary02:25 From YouTube to Emmy03:36 Dorton Wrestling Legacy05:23 Iconic Moments and Stories06:52 Family Ties to Dorton07:51 Where to Watch Now09:13 Network Sign OffWelcome to the North Carolina Sports Network!Your home for all things sports in the Bold North State — from the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLS, PGA TOUR, and NASCAR to the heart of ACC and college athletics.🎥 Stories. 🎙️ Podcasts. 📊 Analysis.Covering the legends, the rising stars, and everything in between.👇 Subscribe & follow:🌐 ncsportsnetwork.com🎧 Podcasts: Spotify, Apple & more📲 @TheNCSportsNet on all platforms#NCsports #BoldNorthState