Hard Rock outfit CHAMPION, created in 1982, released an eponymous album, produced by TORONTO's Brian Allen, through Solid Gold Records in 1984. A single, 'I'd Lie To You For Your Love (And That's The Truth)', also saw issue. Vocalist Alex Machin had found earlier chart success with A FOOT IN COLDWATER, previous to which he had fronted LEATHER and ISLAND. Musicians employed in the studio to record the CHAMPION album included guitarists Ashley Mulford, Brian Allen and John Duva, bass players Mike Gingrich and Mike Rose, saxophonist Leo Sullivan with Paul Hannah on drums.

Machin rejoined A FOOT IN COLDWATER in 1988. Guitarist John Duva would join the EDGAR WINTER band in 1994. Ashley Mulford featured in SAD CAFE, MANDALABAND and MIKE AND THE MECHANICS.