Biographical Dictionary of Professional Wrestling

Though they are usually ignored by sportswriters and entertainment reporters alike, the popularity of professional wrestlers is undeniable. The competitors are both gifted athletes and showbiz pros, and few among the sport's millions of fans are overly concerned with whether pro wrestling is legitimate. Many of the best wrestlers have excelled in athletic competition outside the squared circle, including football great Bronco Nagurski, Olympic champion Ken Paterna and boxer Primo Carnera. And, as the screen success of grapplers such as Woody Strode, Mike Mazurki and Hulk Hogan attest, many wrestlers have appeared in popular films.
From Ace Abbott to Buck Zumhofe, this is the first ever comprehensive compilation of biographical information on male and female professional wrestlers past and present, including major promoters and managers. Each entry is listed under the wrestling name most often used, with cross references to real names and other ring names. The ring name is followed by the grappler's real name, hometown, height and weight, and birth and death dates when available. The biographical data provide the era in which the individual competed, wrestling associations in which he or she competed, titles won, managers, tag team partners, major bouts and other career highlights.