In 1990, Eddie Gilbert's career was a disaster. Released by WCW, too small to get any attention from the WWF, and in the middle of divorcing Missy Hyatt, Gilbert headed back to his home territory, Memphis. Eddie demanded a match against Jerry Lawler, the top wrestler in the promotion. The feud became hotter over the following weeks, with Eddie constantly interrupting matches, until the promoter Eddie Marlin fired Gilbert and his brother Doug on live TV. While escorting them from the building, Gilbert punched Marlin, bringing Lawler out for the save. Gilbert proceeded to introduce Lawler's right shoulder to his windshield.