'Planting Tulips around Mr McGinty's stump' is a line I will never forget. It was the first 'Champ' episode I heard when my Father introduced me to what is now a radio legend. I laughed so hard at the 'Champ' that my cheeks hurt and I felt sick to my stomach, yet in the room sat two others that hardly cracked a smile. That's what it was like, you either busted a gut over his antics or you thought it was the stupidest thing you ever heard.
The 'Champ', for those that don't know, was simply the voice of an ex boxer who, through hilarious plays on words, told stories of his buddies and family in a very crude and crass manner. 'PARRRDONNN', was his signature line and when he said it, you knew that someone was going to get faked, then punched in the breadbasket. There was Knuckles Muldoon and a cast of various other hard tickets, but the Champ's wife was the focal point. If anyone dared to put her in a 'position' that didn't fit the Champs liking, they were beat in a most delirious fashion. His misinterpretation of what was said is legendary. For instance, never ask the Champ if he wants his balls washed while on the golf course or if he met Don Cherry and Blue his dog, he will 'Snap and Lose it' and finish your day for you.
I actually wrote a couple of episodes of the Champ back in 2000 and had fun doing it. I had sent them off to our local radio station and still think that someday I'll hear them while driving down the highway, possibly to the Old Log Inn. How far is the Old Log Inn you ask? Don't ask the Champ if you know what's good for ya. They definitely had some Maritime flair to them.
That was the beauty of the Champ, anyone could relate, simplistic in nature, yes repetitive, but a whole lot of laughs to cheer up your day......Ever Since, I've been the Champ!....
