Wrestling

Jim Crockett Promotions organized local wrestling matches, such as this 1945 women's bout.  Crockett's organization was a member of the National Wrestling Alliance, a forerunner to World Championship Wrestling.

Wrestling holds a special place in the heart of the Carolinas. 

According to a 1978 Charlotte Observer article, in a deal with Charlotte channel WBTV, Crockett gives his Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling and Wide World Wrestling shows to the station for free in exchange for the commercial time.  It's a no-brainer considering that "except for the local news, [MACW] is the longest running show" on the channel, enjoying over 20 years of broadcasts.