Skip to content
Pro Wrestling Stories
  • Choose a Story
  • About
    • About Pro Wrestling Stories
    • Contact
      • E-mail
      • Facebook
      • Instagram
      • Twitter
    • Policies
      • Disclaimer, Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Disclosure Policies
      • Editorial Policies
    • Write For Us
  • Dark Tales
  • Interviews
  • Territories
  • Merch
    • HOMAGE.com – Our favorite in retro wrestling attire! (Use code “PWS” for a nice surprise)
    • PWSTees.com – Your favorite Pro Wrestling Stories, on a tee!
  • Meet The Team
  • More
    • Women Wrestling Pioneers
    • Shoot Fights
    • Lists
    • In Memoriam
    • Podcasts
      • Pro Wrestling Stories Presents (2015)
      • The Genius Cast with Lanny Poffo (2018-19)
      • The Pro Wrestling Stories Podcast (2020)
    • Pro Wrestling Documentaries, Books, and Movie Reviews
    • Today in History
    • Huge Crowd Reactions
    • Ask PWS
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
Pro Wrestling Stories
  • Choose a Story
  • About
    • About Pro Wrestling Stories
    • Contact
      • E-mail
      • Facebook
      • Instagram
      • Twitter
    • Policies
      • Disclaimer, Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Disclosure Policies
      • Editorial Policies
    • Write For Us
  • Dark Tales
  • Interviews
  • Territories
  • Merch
    • HOMAGE.com – Our favorite in retro wrestling attire! (Use code “PWS” for a nice surprise)
    • PWSTees.com – Your favorite Pro Wrestling Stories, on a tee!
  • Meet The Team
  • More
    • Women Wrestling Pioneers
    • Shoot Fights
    • Lists
    • In Memoriam
    • Podcasts
      • Pro Wrestling Stories Presents (2015)
      • The Genius Cast with Lanny Poffo (2018-19)
      • The Pro Wrestling Stories Podcast (2020)
    • Pro Wrestling Documentaries, Books, and Movie Reviews
    • Today in History
    • Huge Crowd Reactions
    • Ask PWS
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Pro Wrestling Stories

Pro Wrestling Stories is your number one source of wrestling history and nostalgia! Discover wrestling’s rich past from the sport’s finest writers with these 800-plus chapters of wrestling history.

From the 1980s to 1992, professional wrestling enjoyed a boom because of the kids-friendly product and larger-than-life characters of WWF's Golden Era. However, by the Ruthless Aggression Era (2002-2008), there was a significant shift in the product. And often, returning legends from the golden past didn't always fare well!

10 Golden Era Wrestlers in WWE’s Ruthless Aggression Era

by Griffin Kaye  Nov 23, 2023

Returning legends from the Golden Era didn’t always fare well! Here are ten wrestlers who returned to WWE during the Ruthless Aggression Era!

Triple H returns from a quad injury on Raw at Madison Square Garden, January 7th, 2002.

Triple H Return in 2002: A Hero’s Welcome at MSG

by Joseph Finnegan  Feb 15, 2023

On January 7th, 2002, Madison Square Garden saw the triumphant return of Triple H after a career-threatening injury.

Asuka, Mustafa Ali, and Chris Jericho have all lived unique lives outside of the wrestling ring!

Wrestlers Who Live Unique Lives Outside of the Ring

by Braeden Farrell  May 25, 2023

These four wrestlers may surprise you, and they certainly can tell plenty of stories from their unique lives outside of the squared circle!

David Gann Remembered, 1971-2018

by Bobby Mathews  Nov 7, 2019

David Gann wasn’t a famous name. He wasn’t any kind of star. But he was one of us. He was family. It’s our privilege to…

Roddy Piper - From The Streets to the Big Time

Roddy Piper – From The Streets to the Big Time

by Rob Ireland  Jan 10, 2023

Roddy Piper found wrestling as a means to get off the streets. He would soon make a name himself in wrestling, Hollywood, and beyond.

10 Wrestling Book Must-Reads (and 5 You Should Skip!)

by Bobby Mathews  Aug 13, 2025

The best wrestling memoirs are confessional and brutally honest. Here are the top 10 best wrestling book must-reads, and the 5 worst!

Bobby Heenan was one of the funniest and most talented men ever to grace a wrestling show. But what was he like behind the scenes?

Bobby Heenan: Secret History on the Man Behind the Mic

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 25, 2023

Bobby Heenan was one of the funniest and most talented men ever to grace a wrestling show. But what was he like behind the scenes?

Discover 10 WWE finishing moves that deserve more love. These devastating moves defined careers but are often overlooked in history!

10 Devastating WWE Finishing Moves That Deserve More Love

by Richard Thompson  Sep 12, 2024

Discover 10 WWE finishing moves that deserve more love. These devastating moves defined careers but are often overlooked in history!

Kurt Angle with the Angle Lock applied to Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 21, April 3rd, 2005.

Kurt Angle and Shawn Michaels Embarrassing First Encounter

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Aug 30, 2021

“Oh my god, this kid’s an idiot…” Kurt Angle tells the story of his embarrassing first encounter with Shawn Michaels in 2002.

Ring of Honor and the NWA | The Night They Made History

Ring of Honor & NWA’s Unforgettable Night of Making History

by Ian Aldous  Feb 16, 2023

In the mid-’00s, Ring of Honor was thriving, while the NWA was a pale comparison to its glory days. However, this night, they changed history!

JJ Maguire, credited with over 100 wrestling music entrance theme songs in the WWF and WCW in the 1980s and '90s.

JJ Maguire – 1980s and ’90s Wrestling Theme Song Master

by Javier Ojst  Jun 3, 2025

Meet JJ Maguire, credited with over 100 wrestling entrance theme songs of your favorite WWE and WCW stars of the 1980s and ’90s!

Steve-O from Jackass hanging out backstage with Jeff Hardy.

Jackass and Their Strange History With WWE

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

With Jackass 4 confirmed for 2021, psych yourself up with this wild ride of a story! Canceled matchups and knockouts included!

Luscious Johnny Valiant Remembers the Legends

by Evan Ginzburg  Nov 7, 2019

Memories from Johnny Valiant, in his own words, of the incomparable legends Dick the Bruiser, Bobo Brazil and ‘The Original Sheik’ Ed Farhat.

From being homeless and sleeping in his car, eating tuna from a can, and having to defeat up to nine fans from the crowd before the matches each night to keep his spot on the card, Bob Backlund faced harsh challenges at the start of his career. However, with a positive mental attitude, grit, and unbridled determination, he grew to become a true gentleman and a champion in every sense of the word.

Bob Backlund – Humble Beginnings to Championship Gold

by Javier Ojst  Mar 27, 2023

Bob Backlund paid his dues by sleeping in his car, eating tuna from a can, and defeating up to 9 fans from the crowd a…

Hulk Hogan and Ultimate Warrior | The True Story of WrestleMania 6

Hulk Hogan and Ultimate Warrior | The True Story of WrestleMania 6

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

WrestleMania 6 pitted Hulk Hogan and Ultimate Warrior against one another, causing a divide amongst the fans and those involved backstage.

As the leaves change, autumn and fall remind us of legendary wrestling moments. These 5 PPVs (now PLEs) defined rivalries and made history!

5 Iconic Fall Wrestling PPV (PLE)s You Can’t Miss!

by Jonathan Clark  Oct 22, 2024

As the leaves change, autumn and fall remind us of legendary wrestling moments. These 5 PPVs (now PLEs) defined rivalries and made history!

Jerry Lynn over the years.

Jerry Lynn: Unsung Artist of The Mat

by Ian Aldous  Oct 6, 2022

Jerry Lynn elevated wrestling to an art form. A tremendous technician, he delivered many classics. So why is this artist of the mat unsung?

Women’s wrestling allowed for the opportunity to travel and make a living, but some say that The Fabulous Moolah profited unfairly from her trainees throughout her career.

Fabulous Moolah – Her Career and Controversial Legacy

by Javier Ojst  Nov 28, 2025

Fabulous Moolah became the most powerful woman in wrestling through ruthless and cutthroat methods, leaving behind a controversial legacy.

Ivan Koloff over the years.

Ivan Koloff: Secret Untold Tale of a Beloved Wrestling Heel

by Benny J. Scala  Apr 17, 2025

The untold tale of Ivan Koloff: From Canadian farm boy to pro wrestling legend, and his epic upset victory that shook the wrestling world!

Allen Coage (Bad News Brown / Bad News Allen) was a Judo champion and fierce wrestler in the squared circle. But to his family, he was much more.

The Secret History of “Bad News Brown” Allen Coage

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 8, 2025

Allen Coage was also known as Bad News Brown and Bad News Allen. Learn his secret history through his beloved daughters, Frances and April.

ECW was around before Paul Heyman worked his magic. This is the story of "Hot Stuff" Eddie Gilbert and the oft-ignored original ECW.

Eddie Gilbert’s ECW Before Paul Heyman’s Revolution

by Jordan Talbot  Jul 7, 2022

ECW was around before Paul Heyman worked his magic. This is the story of “Hot Stuff” Eddie Gilbert and the oft-ignored original ECW.

SAITO Remembered: "Brother, He Was Double-Tough"

Masa Saito Remembered: “Brother, He Was Double-Tough”

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 10, 2023

“What everyone seems to remember is the arrest of Masa Saito – and subsequent conviction – while competing in the AWA in 1984.”

Before his passing, the Ultimate Warrior opened up about the use of steroids and performance-enhancing drugs in wrestling.

Ultimate Warrior on the Deceptive Way Wrestlers Obtained PEDs

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

Ultimate Warrior on the pros and cons of performance-enhancing drugs and the deceptive means wrestlers used to obtain them.

Sam Houston | A Wrestler Coming to Terms With His Past

Sam Houston | A Wrestler Coming to Terms With His Past

by Jim Phillips  Mar 10, 2023

Sam Houston has seen the gambit of the wrestling business. Here, he comes to terms with his past in search of a brighter future.

Virgil faces off against Bret Hart for the WWF Championship on a November 21st, 1992 episode of Superstars.

10 Wrestlers Who Surprisingly Had a WWE Championship Match

by Griffin Kaye  Nov 6, 2022

Only the elite and the greatest should get awarded a chance at the WWE Championship, although such is not always the case…

Superfans such as Georgette Krieger (left) and Georgiann Makropolous (right) made the experience of watching the WWWF at Madison Square Garden all the more fun!

WWWF at MSG (1974-84): A Love Letter to the Past

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 8, 2023

I attended 90% of the WWWF Madison Square Garden shows between 1974 and ’84. This is my love letter to the past.

Christian and the Chris Jericho Deaf Fan Rib

Christian and the Chris Jericho Deaf Fan Rib

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jun 9, 2023

The mischievous act Christian pulled on Chris Jericho was not only crafty but it showed true dedication to the art of ribbing!

The fistfight between Blackjack Mulligan and Andre the Giant started over a game of cribbage!

Blackjack Mulligan: Fist-Fighting with Two Wrestling Legends!

by Christopher M. Hendricks  Feb 22, 2023

Blackjack Mulligan was one of the legitimate tough guys in wrestling, and these stories show just how fearless he was!

Canada has a rich history in professional wrestling and a legacy of producing standout wrestlers and talent. Discover the stories of notable individuals and families from The Great White North who have made their country proud.

Canadian Wrestlers With a Rich History in the Sport

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 10, 2023

Discover the stories of notable professional wrestlers and families from Canada who have made their country proud.

Kayfabe News creator Colin Hunter, seen here alongside noted WWE and TNA referee Earl Hebner, trades satire for stripes in the new documentary The Ref Didn’t See It! And reality hit him harder than expected.

Kayfabe News Creator Becomes Wrestling Ref in New Doc

by Colin Hunter  Jun 23, 2025

Kayfabe News creator Colin Hunter trades satire for stripes in The Ref Didn’t See It! – and reality hit him harder than expected.

21 Best Old-School WWE Wrestlers of All Time, Ranked

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 1, 2024

The ultimate pre-1990 WWE wrestling legends list! See if your favorite old-school wrestlers from Capitol Sports, WWWF, and WWF made the cut!

You can find about anything on WWE Shop, from quality merchandise to straight-up oddities. We've done some digging and found some of the strangest ones!

WWE Shop: 8 of the Most Bizarre Items Ever Sold!

by Ethan Absler  Mar 3, 2023

You can find about anything on WWE Shop, from quality merch to straight-up oddities. We’ve done digging and found some of the strangest ones!

One of artist Joe Jusko's memorable works is the 1991 Royal Rumble poster, which features WWE legends Ultimate Warrior, Sgt. Slaughter, Mr. Perfect, Hulk Hogan, Road Warriors Animal and Hawk, Kerry Von Erich, Randy Savage, Earthquake, Tugboat, and Big Bossman.

Body Slams in Color: How Joe Jusko Painted WWE’s Golden Age

by Tim Buckler  Jan 24, 2024

Explore the secret journey of artist Joe Jusko, from creating The Undertaker’s iconic design to his instantly recognizable artwork in WWE.

Nancy Toffolomo Benoit and Chris Benoit share a fleeting moment of joy on their wedding day—a stark contrast to the isolation and hidden turmoil later revealed in Sitting Ringside, Volume 2. WCW announcer David Penzer’s firsthand account exposes chilling warning signs overlooked before the 2007 tragedy.

Chris Benoit’s Hidden Life: A Downfall Some Saw Coming

by JP Zarka  Feb 11, 2025

WCW announcer David Penzer reveals chilling details about the tragic events surrounding Chris Benoit and the signs some saw coming.

Scott Hall opens up about how he lost respect for Bret Hart after going to his house.

Scott Hall on the “Shrine” Bret Hart Had For Himself

by Matt Pender  Feb 17, 2025

Scott Hall ruled the squared circle and had no time for wrestling figures or being a mark. Bret Hart, on the other hand…

"London's Loveable Villain" Chick 'Cocky' Knight.

Chick ‘Cocky’ Knight – The Heroic Life of a British Wrestling Pioneer

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

Chick ‘Cocky’ Knight lived life to the full. Along with a storied career in the wrestling ring, Knight was a triple-lifesaver!

Jerry Lawler and Vince McMahon (WWF In Your House 4, on October 22nd, 1995).

Jerry Lawler on How He Joined WWE, Vince McMahon, and More

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 18, 2023

On December 3rd, 1994, an hour before WWF Superstars tapings began, the career of the king of Memphis Jerry Lawler changed forever!

Over the years, Juan Kachmanian established himself as a prominent figure in the professional wrestling industry by adopting different personas, including Ervan the Armenian, Ivan the Terrible, The Missing Link, The Great Pampero, the Wild Bull of the Pampas, and most notably, Pampero Firpo.

“Oooh Yeah!” The Untold Story of Pampero Firpo

by Benny J. Scala  May 9, 2023

Delve into the life and exploits of the Wild Bull of the Pampas, Pampero Firpo, whose tale goes much beyond inspiring a future WWE Champion!

Shocking Photos of Bald Wrestlers with Hair!

by Braeden Farrell  Jun 7, 2023

Hair plays an important role in wrestling. Here are 18 bald wrestlers, but with a full set of hair! This one’s going to be fun…

Eleven ways Mortal Kombat has rocked the world of professional wrestling, for better, and in some cases, for worse, since the '90s!

Secret Impact of Mortal Kombat on Pro Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  Jan 25, 2023

Discover how the Mortal Kombat video game franchise has impacted the professional wrestling industry (for better or for worse)!

Sheldon Goldberg, founder of New England Championship Wrestling and a guiding force in the early careers of stars like John Cena and Mercedes Moné (formerly Sasha Banks), presents The Last Fall, an unflinching debut novel that pulls you behind the curtain of professional wrestling. Discover the raw, emotional journey of a man shaped by the ring and the scars that never healed.

The Last Fall by Sheldon Goldberg: Honest Wrestling Book Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 1, 2025

We give our honest review of The Last Fall by NECW founder Sheldon Goldberg, who helped launch wrestling stars John Cena and Sasha Banks.

Wrestling legends Nikolai Volkoff, Walter Kowalski, and Tito Santana. Before his passing, Walter Kowalski would write stories about his time in the wrestling business. In one stand-out memoir, he shared a side not often known about his good friend Nikolai Volkoff. One tale involving Tito Santana, in particular, will have you thanking your good graces that you don’t have a Mr. Fuji-type in your friendship circle!

Nikolai Volkoff and Tito Santana – A Side Not Often Seen

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 8, 2021

Wrestling legend Walter Kowalski shares a side not often known about Nikolai Volkoff, including a comical tale involving Tito Santana.

Christian (the then WWE Intercontinental Champion) at the TNA Slammiversary pay-per-view on June 10, 2012.

Christian and the Bizarre Deal Between WWE and TNA in 2012

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 24, 2025

How WWE and TNA’s rare 2012 talent exchange featuring Christian and Ric Flair laid the groundwork for today’s historic collaboration.

A Wrestling State of Mind: Journeys that Pull on the Heartstrings

by Alex  Jun 18, 2023

Once the camera stops rolling, wrestlers have a sincere story to share. A Wrestling State of Mind: wrestlers talk the most memorable moments of their…

From delivering bodyslams in the ring to making waves on the silver screen, Pat Roach's journey took an unexpected turn when a particular Hollywood legend took an interest in his work!

Pat Roach: From British Wrestling Champion to Hollywood Legend

by Tim Buckler  Nov 17, 2025

From Andre the Giant to Indiana Jones, Pat Roach went from British wrestling champion to one of Hollywood’s great character actors.

Mall of America: then (first ever WCW Monday Nitro) vs. now.

20 Nostalgic Wrestling Photos That Will Take You Back!

by Braeden Farrell  May 25, 2021

Each of these nostalgic wrestling photos has an interesting story behind them. Get ready for this fun blast from the past!

Real Pro Wrestling Stories with Jim Cornette and Brandon Easton

Real Pro Wrestling Stories with Jim Cornette and Brandon Easton

by Bobby Mathews  Jul 7, 2022

“Before the interview, disaster struck!” Behind the curtain with Real Pro Wrestling Stories writers Jim Cornette and Brandon Easton.

There are legends in professional wrestling. And then there’s Bullet Bob Armstrong.

Bullet Bob Armstrong: Remembering a Legend

by Bobby Mathews  Sep 8, 2022

There are legends in professional wrestling. And then there’s Bullet Bob Armstrong. He passed away at the age of 80 on August 27, 2020.

"The Tempest" Delfino Epindola Serrano.

The Tempest – The Unusual Story of an Often Forgotten Luchador

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

Had it not been for a vision in a dream long after his passing, these stories on superstar luchador The Tempest would have been lost…

On August 1st, 2002, everything changed for "The Messiah" William Welch.

‘The Messiah’ William Welch: Secret Behind Heinous Home Attack

by Jordan Talbot  Feb 28, 2023

When “The Messiah” William Welch was rushed to the hospital in 2002, his injuries were not from a match but a heinous attack in his…

WWF Wrestling Superstars - The Tale of WWE's First Wrestling Figures

WWF Wrestling Superstars – The Tale of WWE’s First Wrestling Figures

by Javier Ojst  Nov 22, 2023

1984’s WWF Wrestling Superstars by LJN was WWE’s first wrestling figures. Here’s the fascinating backstory behind their creation.

Wrestling icon "Razor Ramon" Scott Hall.

Scott Hall – Giving Up Drinking, DDP’s Effect on His Life

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

In 2013, Scott Hall reacted to doctors in the most “Bad Guy” way possible after being told he didn’t have much longer to live!

Moments after Hulk Hogan turned heel turn and joined forces with Scott Hall and Kevin Nash to create the nWo. WCW Bash at the Beach, 1996.

Hulk Hogan Heel Turn and the Fan Who Tried to Attack

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

When Hulk Hogan turned heel, an unhappy fan jumped into the ring to fight. This “fan” was not prepared for the consequences that followed!

8 Wrestlers Who Have Their Own Drink Brand

8 Wrestlers Who Have Their Own Drink Brand

by Tim Buckler  Mar 6, 2023

Alcohol has always played a significant role in pro wrestling, so it makes perfect sense that these 8 wrestlers should get in on the act!

The good, bad, and ugly of that surreal, surprising, and unforgettable weekend I spent at The Iron Sheik's house.

My Wild Weekend At The Iron Sheik’s House

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 12, 2023

The good, bad, and ugly of a shocking and surreal weekend at the Iron Sheik’s house that I’ll never forget!

Becoming a wrestler still isn’t easy – but it’s not like it once was! Discover the jarring (and often painful) reality many wrestling legends faced after choosing to join the wrestling business!

Horror Stories of Legends Entering the Wrestling Business

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 8, 2023

Becoming a wrestler still isn’t easy – but it’s not like it once was! Discover the painful reality many wrestling legends faced early on.

Tony Halme, once known to professional wrestling fans as Ludvig Borga, lived a shocking life outside of the ring.

The Shocking Life of ‘Ludvig Borga’ Tony Halme

by Stosh Jonjak  Feb 6, 2025

Stories from the real life of Ludvig Borga seems so outrageous it can’t possibly be true. Though as unbelievable as it seems, it was.

Betrayal, disloyalty, and mob tactics ran rampant between Ann Gunkel and the NWA with their Battle for Atlanta!

Ann Gunkel and the NWA’s Heated Battle for Atlanta

by Javier Ojst  Jul 14, 2023

Betrayal, disloyalty, and mob tactics ran rampant between Ann Gunkel and the NWA with their Battle for Atlanta!

Rick Martel and the Legendary Terry Funk Rib

Rick Martel and the Legendary Terry Funk Rib

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

What is a wrestler to do to pass time on the road? Rib each other, of course! This story on Rick Martel has become the…

“The Nature Boy” nickname has been shared by several wrestlers, including Buddy Rogers, Roger Kirby, Ric Flair, Buddy Landel, and Scoot Andrews. But what happens when wrestlers share the same name? Discover 11 shared wrestling nicknames—proving that in the ring, no name is truly safe!

11 Shared Wrestling Nicknames: Who Wore It Better?

by Griffin Kaye  Oct 22, 2024

What happens when wrestlers share the same name? Discover 11 shared wrestling nicknames—proving that in the ring, no name is truly safe!

Pro Wrestling Stories author Jim Phillips was paralyzed on January 21st, 2023. Click the photo to learn more about how you can help. Any contribution, small or large, means the world to him and supports him on his journey of taking his first steps again.

Greatest Challenge Yet for Pro Wrestling Stories Author Jim Phillips

by JP Zarka  Dec 19, 2023

Pro Wrestling Stories author Jim Phillips is in a bad way. Learn his story & how you can help him reach his goal of taking…

Johnny Rodz, who has fought against legends such as Hulk Hogan and Roddy Piper, was caught off guard by his latest opponent when he had to fight for his life.

In The Eye of the Storm: Secret Battle of Johnny Rodz

by Benny J. Scala  Jun 9, 2023

“The Unpredictable” Johnny Rodz went from an underdog to a wrestling legend, and recently, he faced his toughest opponent yet.

Dallas Sportatorium - If Those Walls Could Talk

Dallas Sportatorium – If Those Walls Could Talk

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

The Dallas Sportatorium had its doors open from 1935-1998. It may not be a church, but it was wrestling’s holy ground – to some!

FRED GEOBOLD: NYC Wrestling Radio Pioneer, Unsung Hero

by Evan Ginzburg  Nov 7, 2019

Fred Geobold wore many hats in life- receptionist/switchboard operator at WBAI-FM, 99.5 in NYC, on-air radio host, folk singer, songwriter, and concert MC.

"The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase – WWE's unrecognized champion.

Ted DiBiase – The Case of an Unrecognized WWF Champion

by Conor McCorkindale  Feb 6, 2023

They say money can’t buy you happiness! Here’s the story of how Ted DiBiase dethroned Hulk Hogan to (sort of) become WWF Champion!

At Madison Square Garden on January 23rd, 1984, Hulk Hogan defeated The Iron Sheik to win the WWF World Heavyweight Championship for the first time, thus igniting the craze soon known as Hulkamania!

The Iron Sheik-Hulk Hogan Match That Changed Wrestling Forever

by Chris Dreibelbis  Jun 7, 2023

In 1984, a hero defeated a foreign foe to create Hulkamania in the WWE. Hulk Hogan and Iron Sheik had it set. But it almost…

Bret Hart and Eric Bischoff have had plenty of colorful things to share about one another over the years...

Bret Hart and Eric Bischoff: A Bitter Feud of Words

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 12, 2023

Bret Hart and Eric Bischoff have had plenty of shocking comments to share about one another over the years!

The death of Nancy Argentino, a former mistress of professional wrestler "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka, is a sobering story filled with possible cover-ups and the needless death of a young woman.

Jimmy Snuka and the Death of Nancy Argentino

by Javier Ojst  Mar 3, 2023

Jimmy Snuka and the death of Nancy Argentino is a sobering story filled with possible cover-ups and the needless death of a young woman.

Three Generations of Professional Wrestlers: From left to right- Steve Nelson's grandmother, Ann LaVerne; mother, Marie LaVerne; father, Gordon Nelson (in one of his many masked personas); and Steve Nelson as a child, a champion wrestler, and today.

Steve Nelson: 3rd Gen Wrestler’s Tales of Unsung Wrestling Family

by Javier Ojst  Apr 17, 2024

Dive into the secret saga of third-gen wrestler Steve Nelson, where blood, sweat, and untold family tales collide in and out of the ring!

Fred Ottman opens up about his botched The Shockmaster debut.

The Shockmaster: Fred Ottman’s Emotional Side of the Story

by Javier Ojst  Apr 12, 2024

Fred Ottman tells the inside story about his botched debut as The Shockmaster and how it forever changed his life.

Killer Kowalski tells the story of the time a wrestling bear overpowered and showed a bit of love to "The Polish Powerhouse" Ivan Putski.

Ivan Putski and the Time He Was Overpowered by a Bear

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Apr 21, 2025

The time Killer Kowalski played a sweet rib on Ivan Putski involving a hungry wrestling bear. “I told the bear to go get ’em!”

In 2005, Brock Lesnar and Shinsuke Nakamura squared off in a real-life dispute over who would be Antonio Inoki's next big star: the IWGP Heavyweight Champion. What ensued led to Lesnar refusing to relinquish the belt and holding it hostage for over a year at his home in America until an unexpected Olympic hero stepped in to save the day!

Brock Lesnar and Shinsuke Nakamura: Their Bitter Real-Life Battle

by Rob Ireland  Feb 27, 2023

In 2005, Brock Lesnar and Shinsuke Nakamura entered into a bitter real-life rivalry over who would be Antonio Inoki’s next big star.

Jake Roberts shares 9 crazy stories you may have missed — including a near-death road scare with Hacksaw Jim Duggan, snake mishaps, and the accidental birth of the DDT!

9 Crazy Jake Roberts Stories You May Have Missed

by JP Zarka  May 21, 2025

Jake Roberts shares 9 crazy stories you may have missed — from near-death moments to snake mishaps and the accidental birth of the DDT!

The Rock lays the smackdown on Goldberg at WWE Backlash 2003.

Goldberg’s Rocky WWE Debut: A Year of Mistakes

by Si Powell  Oct 7, 2024

Goldberg’s first WWE run was far from legendary, marked by missteps and missed opportunities that nearly derailed his career.

"The American Giant" Buck Brezner over the years.

Buck Brezner: A Giant’s Journey in Wrestling and Life

by Javier Ojst  Feb 3, 2023

“The American Giant” Buck Brezner stands out in any crowd. Bullied for his awkwardness and lanky frame, wrestling became his outlet.

In 1991, UWF founder Herb Abrams was owed money by "Wild Thing" Steve Ray. Abrams also suspected that Ray was sleeping with his wife. On May 10th, 1991, at a television taping in New York City, Abrams paid Dr. Death Steve Williams an extra $100 to take care of this problem. The ensuing shoot quickly turned into a threatening situation for the young wrestler.

Dr Death Steve Williams and Steve Ray – A Shoot in the Ring

by Javier Ojst  May 31, 2023

At a May ’91 UWF taping, Herb Abrams paid Dr. Death Steve Williams to “take care of” Steve Ray. The ensuing shoot quickly turned dangerous.

"Kamala" James Harris over the years. He was an imposing presence in the ring but a gentle giant outside it.

Kamala: Secret Tale of WWE Woes, Poor Pay, and Treatment

by JP Zarka  Feb 25, 2023

Kamala was a gentle soul outside the ring. This begs the question: did his kind nature lead to him being taken advantage of in WWE?

The Great Khali (then going by his real name Dalip Singh) trained with promising wrestling prospect Brian Ong at the California-based All-Pro Wrestling in 2001 until tragedy struck.

The Great Khali and the Accident That Killed a Wrestler

by Javier Ojst  Apr 15, 2024

Brian Ong was killed in the ring while training with The Great Khali. It was an accident that nearly ended Khali’s career before it began.

Freddie Blassie – The Truth (and Somewhere In-Between)

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

For Freddie Blassie, death threats were frequent. He triggered deaths in Japan, was stabbed 21 times by fans, and was even doused with acid!

Since Ghostbusters hit theaters in 1984, its supernatural influence has crossed paths with pro wrestling in more unexpected ways than you’d imagine!

When Ghostbusters Met Pro Wrestling: 10 Unlikely Moments

by Tim Buckler  Oct 17, 2024

Since Ghostbusters hit the movies in 1984, its influence has crossed paths with pro wrestling more times than you might imagine!

"Handsome" Jimmy Valiant over the years.

Jimmy Valiant – The Story of the Handsome Boogie Woogie Man

by Benny J. Scala  Mar 29, 2023

Jimmy Valiant traveled the world as a wrestler for nearly 60 years. We look back on his career and the exciting new chapter in his…

The Japanese fans in attendance were not reserved on this night. In his NJPW debut, Big Van Vader ended the win streak of Antonio Inoki in the most horrible way fans ever could have imagined. It led to a riot in sold-out Sumo Hall and NJPW being banned from the venue. Here is how it all went down, flaming seat cushion frisbees and all!

Big Van Vader and Antonio Inoki Incite a Riot in Sumo Hall

by Javier Ojst  Mar 10, 2023

On December 27th, 1987, Big Van Vader and Antonio Inoki incited a riot in Sumo Hall. Here’s how (flaming seat cushions and all)!

Bruno Sammartino and Lou Thesz – The Dream Feud That Never Was

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 7, 2022

The late-great Killer Kowalski shares his musings on the dream feud that never was: Bruno Sammartino and Lou Thesz.

Alice Cooper spooks the referee with Damien the Snake at WrestleMania III while Jake Roberts applies a Full Nelson on Jimmy Hart.

Alice Cooper on His Terrifying WrestleMania III Experience

by JP Zarka  Nov 17, 2025

Rock legend Alice Cooper appeared at WrestleMania III in front of 93,173 people – an experience that pushed him out of his comfort zone!

son Kidd and Cesaro execute a seamless tandem move on Kofi Kingston, demonstrating the teamwork that earned them WWE tag team gold before Tyson Kidd’s promising career was tragically cut short.

Wrestling Injuries That Shattered 3 WWE Careers

by Joseph Finnegan  Aug 30, 2024

Discover the heart-wrenching stories of 3 WWE wrestlers whose careers were tragically cut short by devastating in-ring injuries.

Kevin Sullivan: Wrestling's 'Taskmaster' and 'Prince of Darkness,' defined the dark side of the sport.

Kevin Sullivan: Dark Secrets and Legacy of Wrestling’s Devil

by Jim Phillips  Aug 12, 2024

Explore the dark, secret legacy of Kevin Sullivan, wrestling’s “Taskmaster” and “Prince of Darkness,” as we uncover his rise and tragic end.

These 18 insane wrestling heels defined hardcore wrestling, inspired the hatred of millions of fans, and motivated fans to buy tickets!

18 Wrestling Heel Pioneers Who Insanely Freaked Out Fans!

by Javier Ojst  Oct 20, 2023

These 18 insane wrestling heels defined hardcore wrestling, inspired the hatred of millions of fans, and motivated fans to buy tickets!

There was real-life animosity between Road Warrior Hawk and Macho Man Randy Savage, and on two occasions, these wrestling giants got into heated brawls.

Randy Savage vs. Road Warrior Hawk: Their Real-Life Fights

by Geries Tadros  Aug 28, 2024

Randy Savage and Road Warrior Hawk’s real-life feud led to two violent fights, a legal battle, and lasting hate between the wrestling icons.

The tough team of Ron Dupree and Chris Colt - a tag team in the ring, and real-life partners outside of it.

Wrestling’s Battle Against Homophobia Tackled in “Out In The Ring”

by Evan Ginzburg  Nov 15, 2023

Explore the hidden struggles of gay wrestlers and the layers of homophobia in wrestling’s territory era and beyond in ‘Out In The Ring.’

Hunter Hearst Helmsley (Triple H) and Henry O. Godwinn collide in WWE's notorious Arkansas Hog Pen Match at In Your House 5 on December 17, 1995, at Hersheypark Arena in Hershey, Pennsylvania, featuring live pigs, mud, and a legitimately injured Triple H. Read on to find out what really went down in this legendary encounter!

Triple H and Henry O. Godwinn: Hog Pen Secrets Revealed

by Richard Thompson  Aug 1, 2025

Live pigs, pig slop, and an open wound couldn’t stop Triple H in WWE’s infamous Hog Pen Match. Uncover the story behind this bizarre bout.

The Undertaker wrestled through excruciating first and second-degree burns at February 21, 2010's WWE Elimination Chamber pay-per-view.

Undertaker – Wrestling Through First and Second-Degree Burns

by Braeden Farrell  Jun 19, 2023

In 2010, the Undertaker wrestled through agonizing pain after suffering first and second-degree burns. It cost the job of one WWE employee.

Legendary Piper’s Pit segment in 1984, just before Roddy Piper hit Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka with a coconut!

Roddy Piper and Jimmy Snuka Piper’s Pit Coconut Incident

by JP Zarka  Feb 5, 2023

Roddy Piper and Jimmy Snuka open up about their classic coconut segment on Piper’s Pit and the alleged damage Snuka suffered from it.

Cheating, betrayal, Shawn Michaels, and more. This is the sad, sordid story of Tammy Sytch and Chris Candido. Warning: It’s not pretty!

Tammy Sytch & Chris Candido: The Sad Story of Sunny & Skip

by Matt Pender  Sep 4, 2025

Cheating, betrayal, Shawn Michaels, and more. This is the sad, sordid story of Tammy Sytch and Chris Candido. Warning: It’s not pretty!

When Shawn Michaels returned to WWE in 2002, fans were led to believe that it was his first return to the ring in over four years. This was NOT the case!

Shocking In-Ring Return of Shawn Michaels in 2000

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 19, 2023

When Shawn Michaels returned to WWE in 2002, fans were told this was his first return to the ring in over four years. This was…

John Cena and CM Punk battle at WWE Money In The Bank 2011.

John Cena and CM Punk: A Feud In (and Out) of the Ring

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 30, 2023

Classic feuds have elements of reality. Such was the case with John Cena and CM Punk. Feelings portrayed on TV were not far from the…

A Stinking Place to Die: Part I

by Bobby Mathews  Nov 7, 2019

Deke Carter turned away from the lights and sea of San Juan. He was looking for something cheap. Something entertaining. And something cold to drink.

The relationship between Miss Elizabeth and Lex Luger was volatile at best. Sadly, on May 1st, 2003, Liz would tragically pass away in the home she shared with Luger. Here, he opens up about the circumstances surrounding the death of his former girlfriend.

Miss Elizabeth and Lex Luger – A Bond That Led to Tragedy

by Javier Ojst  Feb 27, 2025

In May 2003, Miss Elizabeth died in the home of Lex Luger. Here, he opens up about the events surrounding the death of his former…

Matt Hardy is tended to by officials outside the ring at Extreme Rising: Remember November - Saturday, November 17th, 2012, CCBC Golden Dome, Monaca, Pennsylvania.

Matt Hardy Almost Dies | Remembering Remember November

by Stosh Jonjak  Jan 10, 2023

In 2012, I saw Matt Hardy almost die. Lying on the concrete floor in front of my feet, he convulsed and slipped in and out…

A haunting case of life imitating art: Mickey Rourke as the down-and-out Randy “The Ram” Robinson in The Wrestler (left) compared to the actor in late December 2025 amid reports of facing eviction (right).

Mickey Rourke: The Reality Behind His Role on The Wrestler

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 7, 2026

Associate Producer Evan Ginzburg reveals the haunting reality behind Mickey Rourke’s role in The Wrestler and the moment the line blurred.

The arrest of Rob Van Dam with Sabu could not have come at a worse time for RVD.

Rob Van Dam: The Arrest That Changed RVD’s Career

by JP Zarka  Mar 9, 2023

Rob Van Dam and Sabu were in a world of trouble on July 1st, 2006. The arrest could not have happened at a worse time…

From friendly rivals to bitter enemies and finally to reconciliation, the Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels saga represents professional wrestling’s most personal feud. What began as scripted competition between two of WWE’s greatest performers spiraled into a very real war that played out in rings, locker rooms, and television screens throughout the 1990s, forever changing the wrestling business.

Bret Hart vs. Shawn Michaels: 10 Explosive Backstage Stories

by Aarij Arifeen  Sep 10, 2025

From friends to enemies with real-life drama, explore 10 explosive backstage stories on WWE’s most personal feud: Bret Hart vs Shawn Michaels

All-Star Wrestling - 5 Unsung Heroes of Saturday Mornings Past

All-Star Wrestling: Unsung Heroes of Saturday Morning TV

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 27, 2023

Let us take you back in time when WWE (then the WWWF and WWF) presented a weekly Saturday morning show entitled All-Star Wrestling.

"The Mouth of the South" Jimmy Hart over the years.

Jimmy Hart: Secret History of The Mouth of the South

by Benny J. Scala  Jun 19, 2023

Learn the surprising tale of the man behind the megaphone, one-of-a-kind wrestling personality The Mouth of the South: Jimmy Hart!

Pedro Morales and Buddy Austin were on a tour of Australia for Jim Barnett’s World Championship Wrestling in December of 1968. But when the two went to a New Year’s Eve party at the Crest Hotel’s penthouse in the Kings Cross area of Sydney, both men were lucky they didn’t become permanent residents.

The Party Pedro Morales and Buddy Austin Barely Escaped Alive

by Javier Ojst  May 15, 2023

Former WWWF/WWE World Heavyweight Champion Pedro Morales and Buddy Austin were lucky to escape this party with their lives!

The Southwest Championship Wrestling (SCWF) territory, under the leadership of Joe Blanchard in San Antonio, thrived with stars such as (from left to right, row 1) Wahoo McDaniel, Manny Fernandez, Al Madril, Dale Hey (Buddy Roberts), Bobby Jaggers, Scott Casey, Bobby Fulton, Eric Embry, Chicky Starr, (row 2) Gino Hernandez, Shawn Michaels, Jose Lothario, Chavo Guerrero Sr., Tim Brooks, Bruiser Brody, Bob Sweetan, Dick Slater, (row 3) Tully Blanchard, Rudy Boy Gonzales, Terry Funk, “Playboy” Gary Hart, (top row) Joe Blanchard, and Fritz Von Erich. Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

Southwest Championship Wrestling: The Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Jan 14, 2026

Southwest Championship Wrestling: Behind San Antonio’s legendary territory that launched Tully Blanchard, Gino Hernandez, and Shawn Michaels.

From Mickey Whipwreck, Steve Austin, Kevin Owens, and beyond, this is the neck-cracking history of the Stunner! [Photo artwork/design: Tim Buckler]

The Stunner: Its Neck-Cracking History From Steve Austin & Beyond

by Tim Buckler  Apr 10, 2022

From Mikey Whipwreck, Steve Austin, Kevin Owens, and beyond, this is the neck-cracking history of this beloved wrestling maneuver.

WWE invested millions in Tiger Ali Singh, aiming to make him their next international superstar, before it all unraveled behind the scenes.

Tiger Ali Singh: WWE’s $7M Failed Experiment

by Matt Roberts  Jul 30, 2025

WWE banked $7M on Tiger Ali Singh after a SkyDome press conference debut. 5 years later, that investment quietly crumbled behind the scenes.

The larger-than-life Big Daddy (Shirley Crabtree) over the years.

‘Big Daddy’ Shirley Crabtree: Secret History of a British Giant

by Javier Ojst  Sep 20, 2023

From great highs to the tragic in-ring accident that led to the death of a wrestler, learn the rise and fall of “Big Daddy” Shirley…

From the highs of championship belts to the lows of addiction, Peter Joseph "PJ" Polaco, better known to wrestling fans as Justin Credible, PJ Walker, and Aldo Montoya, has battled it all.

The Rise, Fall, and Rise Again of Justin Credible

by Jeff Frantom  May 22, 2023

Justin Credible has seen the peak of the mountain and bottom of the barrel. Here’s the surprising story of his rise, fall, and rise again.

2022 wasn't the only year WWE and Vince McMahon were involved in an unsavory scandal. In 1992, the then WWF and Vince McMahon were under fire due to a drug and sex scandal, and it was on T.V. for the world to see.

WWF Drug and Sex Scandal That Rocked The Tabloids in 1992

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

In 1992, the then WWF and Vince McMahon were under fire due to a drug and sex scandal, and it was on T.V. for the…

My brother Randy and I on our parents’ Judy and Angelo’s 50th wedding anniversary, June 5th, 1999.

Lanny Poffo: Remembering My Brother, Randy Savage

by Lanny Poffo  Feb 16, 2023

The world knew him as “Macho Man” Randy Savage, but to me, he was my brother. I wrote this tribute on what would have been…

We give our honest review of Bruno Sammartino (The Documentary). Moving yet incomplete. Why does it skip so much of his wrestling legacy?

Bruno Sammartino Documentary: An Honest Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 1, 2025

We give our honest review of Bruno Sammartino (The Documentary). Moving yet incomplete. Why does it skip so much of his wrestling legacy?

'70s Florida-based rock band Ruckus featured the future Hulk Hogan on bass.

Uncovering the Facts About the Musical Past of Hulk Hogan

by JP Zarka  Mar 3, 2023

Hulk Hogan used to play bass in a band called Ruckus. Little did he realize how much his life would change after playing a gig…

A Stinking Place to Die: Part II

by Bobby Mathews  Nov 7, 2019

Part 2 of a short fiction inspired by the real-life murder of Bruiser Brody

In the early 2000s, professional wrestler and MMA fighter Enson Inoue had a dangerous confrontation with the Japanese Yakuza.

Enson Inoue and His Dangerous Confrontation with the Yakuza

by Geries Tadros  Feb 27, 2023

In the early 2000s, there was dangerous heat between Enson Inoue and the Japanese Yakuza. It was clear: Enson was not one to be crossed.

The Portland Northwest (PNW) Wrestling territory, initially under the tutelage of Ted Thye (top left) and later Don Owen (bottom left), thrived with stars such as (from left to right) Beauregarde, the Von Steigers (Kurt and Karl), Elton Owen, Sandy Barr, Billy Jack (later Haynes), Jimmy Snuka, Stan Stasiak, Moondog Lonnie Mayne, Dutch Savage, Terrible Tony Borne, The Royal Kangaroos ("Lord" Jonathan Boyd and Norman Frederick Charles III), Ed Wiskoski (later Colonel DeBeers), The Grappler (Len Denton), Shag Thomas, Rip Oliver, Roddy Piper, Buddy Rose, and a host of others.

Pacific Northwest Wrestling (Portland) | The Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Jul 26, 2024

Pacific Northwest Wrestling (PNW) was an NWA wrestling territory based in Portland, Oregon that produced iconic names until its sad demise.

WWE Bullying: Mauro Ranallo, JBL, and the Culture of Veteran Hazing

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 10, 2023

Despite anti-bullying rhetoric, WWE bullying is still alive and well, They tacitly condone veteran hazing of younger talent.

Behind Heroes of Wrestling: The late ’90s pay-per-view disaster that brought together wrestling legends such as Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart, The Bushwackers (Luke Williams and Butch Miller), Marty Jannetty, the Iron Sheik, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Greg “The Hammer” Valentine, and Yokozuna – only to spiral into a fiasco that humiliated legends and tarnished careers.

Heroes of Wrestling Pay-Per-View: A Show Gone So Wrong

by Kelvin Vega  Jul 9, 2025

Behind the Heroes of Wrestling pay-per-view: The late ’90s disaster that ended careers and humiliated legends.

In pro wrestling, sometimes things slip out! As these eleven stories showed, even the toughest wrestlers aren’t immune to a well-timed fart, leaving both the pros and fans laughing—and a little red-faced.

Farts: 11 Times Wrestlers Couldn’t Hold It In!

by JP Zarka  Nov 5, 2024

In pro wrestling, sometimes things slip out! Discover 11 of the funniest and most unexpected fart moments that left even the pros red-faced.

Dynamite Kid Tom Billington was one of the best to lace up a pair of wrestling boots, but does his troubled past overshadow his legacy?

Dynamite Kid – Examining His Life and Troubled Legacy

by Mason Epeneter  Jan 10, 2023

Dynamite Kid Tom Billington was one of the best to ever lace up a pair of wrestling boots, but does his troubled past overshadow his…

Witnessing a title change at a house show when the cameras aren't rolling is a special treat. Here are memorable times this has happened!

6 Wrestling House Show Title Changes Not Seen on TV

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 18, 2025

Witnessing a title change at a house show when the cameras aren’t rolling is a special treat. Here are memorable times this has happened!

Beautiful Bobby Eaton - One of the greatest workers of all time, and -- most importantly -- one of the nicest there ever was in wrestling.

Bobby Eaton: Secret History of a Beautiful Wrestler

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 16, 2023

All Bobby Eaton wanted to do was be a wrestler. He did that, and then some. We remember one of the nicest guys in the…

‘Hustler’ Rip Rogers has had a storied career spanning decades, from his early days in the territories to becoming one of the most respected trainers in professional wrestling. Photo Credits: ICW, WWC, Rip Rogers.

Rip Rogers: Secret Life of Wrestler, Trainer of WWE’s Biggest Stars

by Jim Phillips  Sep 11, 2024

Wrestler Rip Rogers built a career worldwide and trained WWE’s biggest stars. Now, he faces one of his toughest challenges yet.

Ted Turner, me, and Hulk Hogan (someone I've had my fair share of experiences with over the years!)

Road Stories and Ribs From a Former WCW Corporate Employee

by Richard Steinberg  Feb 16, 2023

Wild road stories and crazy ribs are shared by a former WCW and Turner corporate employee. Incredibly, he somehow lived through it all!

Before their rematch at WCW Halloween Havoc 1998, Ultimate Warrior and Hulk Hogan had a tense stare-off.

Hulk Hogan vs. Ultimate Warrior Rematch Gone Wrong

by JP Zarka  Nov 1, 2024

WCW’s Halloween Havoc 1998 promised magic with Hulk Hogan vs. Ultimate Warrior but delivered a disaster remembered for all the wrong reasons!

The tag team of Rhythm and Blues - Honky Tonk Man and Greg Valentine

Honky Tonk Man & Greg Valentine: Hair Betrayal, Broken Vows

by Matt Pender  Apr 3, 2025

Hair dye betrayal! Inside Honky Tonk Man & Greg Valentine’s WWF tag team downfall—clashing egos, broken promises, and a shocking reinvention.

Why are so many WWE wrestlers intimidated by Vince McMahon? Here are some examples that give insight into why!

Intimidating Moments Vince McMahon Had with WWE Wrestlers

by JP Zarka  May 20, 2023

There are numerous accounts of WWE wrestlers feeling intimidated by Vince McMahon. These stories shed light as to why!

Undertaker and Brock Lesnar stare each other down just prior to their history-changing match at WrestleMania 30.

The Streak: Why It Ended for The Undertaker – Secret Details

by Joseph Finnegan  Aug 23, 2024

The untold story of The Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar: Uncover the secret details behind the historic end of “The Streak” at WrestleMania 30.

Chris Jericho shares the story of bargaining with Vince McMahon to take part in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Chris Jericho – “No Is A Four-Letter Word” | Book Review

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

In No Is A Four-Letter Word, Chris Jericho shares, with wit and humor, 20 principles for making it work despite living a busy lifestyle.

You’ve seen his face and heard his voice; now you can learn more about Sean Oliver: the man behind many of your favorite wrestling interviews.

Sean Oliver: Secret Life Behind Wrestling Shoot Interviews

by Rob Ireland  May 31, 2023

Sean Oliver bravely opens in an eye-opening interview. From steroid use to abuse in the church and more, you won’t want to miss this one.

MNM members Melina and Johnny Nitro (John Morrison) attend to Joey Mercury during the Fatal 4-Way Ladder Match at WWE Armageddon December 17, 2006, after the ladder accident that resulted in Mercury's hospitalization and career-altering injury.

Joey Mercury: The Night One Ladder Changed Everything

by Braeden Farrell  Nov 18, 2025

Joey Mercury’s career was on the rise. Instead, December 17th, 2006, marked the beginning of a collision that nearly ended everything.

Winning the NWA World's Heavyweight Championship often cemented legacies in the annals of professional wrestling history. But what happened once former NWA World Champions jumped ship to the WWWF, WWF, or WWE? We examine just how much success these past champions had up north, compared to their successes found in the NWA. As you'll find, many of these legends never saw the same height of success once under the thumb of Vince McMahon.

How WWE Treated 13 Former NWA Champions

by Griffin Kaye  Mar 6, 2023

As you’ll find, many of these former NWA World Champions never saw the same height of success once under the thumb of Vince McMahon.

In 'The Last Real World Champion,' Tim Hornbaker explores Ric Flair's true championship legacy. Read our honest review.

Ric Flair: The Last Real World Champion – An Honest Review

by Ian Aldous  Oct 2, 2023

In ‘The Last Real World Champion,’ Tim Hornbaker explores Ric Flair’s true championship legacy. Read our honest review.

"I never lost a fight, but I never started one either!" - Brian Blair opens up about the brutal fight he had with Matt Borne (who was later known as the original Doink The Clown in the WWF).

Matt Borne (Doink The Clown) and His Brutal Brawl with Brian Blair

by JP Zarka  Apr 15, 2025

Brian Blair details the time he got into a brutal fight with Matt Borne, who was later known in the WWF as Doink The Clown.

One of the worst aspects of these shocking crimes was that many people in the wrestling community were aware of it and did nothing for more than a decade.

Wrestling Deviants Jailed for Shocking Abuse

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 27, 2023

These stories are a cautionary tale: a reminder that wrestling draws many marginal people toward its tawdry spotlight.

Bret Hart gives a reluctant nod as Hulk Hogan steps in against Yokozuna at WrestleMania 9, just moments after Hart lost the WWF Championship. The aftermath would spark decades of controversy.

WrestleMania 9 Controversy Behind Hulk Hogan Winning the Title

by JP Zarka  Apr 22, 2025

The controversial finish at WrestleMania 9. Bret Hart opens up, Hogan fires back—what really happened? The fallout may surprise you…

Kofi Kingston and Randy Orton face off. Orton is blamed for putting a stop to Kofi's big push in 2010.

Kofi Kingston and the Time Randy Orton Ended His WWE Push

by Christopher King  Jan 10, 2023

Kofi Kingston was on his way to having the push of his career in 2010 until a botched spot in a match had Randy Orton…

From his prime in the 1970s as a horned Viking warrior (left), to managing international stars like the Road Warriors during WWC’s golden era in 1985 (center), to his current role as an elder statesman preserving El Salvador’s wrestling legacy through his grandson’s Espiritu Pro Wrestling Dojo (right), El Vikingo (Salvador Pérez) has left an indelible mark on five decades of Central American wrestling history.

El Vikingo: How Struggle Forged El Salvador’s Top Wrestling Star

by Javier Ojst  Aug 13, 2025

El Vikingo Salvador Pérez survived brutal concrete training, civil war, and jealous rivals to become El Salvador’s greatest wrestling export.

Hulk Hogan as Thunderlips takes Rocky (Sylvester Stallone) for a ride in Rocky III.

Rocky and WWE: 5 Ways The Movie Inspired Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  Jul 7, 2022

When it comes to the success of the WWE, you can thank three people: Vince McMahon, Terry Bollea, and Sylvester Stallone of Rocky fame.

Shocking Times Andre the Giant Made Life Miserable For Wrestlers

by Matt Pender  Jan 30, 2023

Andre the Giant wasn’t always easy to get along with. The following stories illustrate a not often known side of the “gentle” giant!

In one of the most shocking moments in wrestling history, Ric Flair debuts on WWF television for the first time with Bobby Heenan alongside his NWA Championship Belt, WWF Prime Time Wrestling, September 9th, 1991.

Why Ric Flair Left WCW for Arch-Rival WWF in 1991

by Matt Pender  Mar 7, 2023

Ric Flair opens up about why he shockingly abandoned WCW for arch-rival WWF in 1991, taking the NWA championship belt with him.

11 Wrestlers Who Walked Away After Refusing to Lose

by Griffin Kaye  Aug 16, 2024

From Hulk Hogan to Steve Austin, these eleven wrestlers took a stand and walked away after refusing to lose a match.

The Grand Wizard of Wrestling – Ernie Roth Remembered

by Evan Ginzburg  May 26, 2022

The Grand Wizard of Wrestling was a gaudily attired, smooth-talking manager who fans loathed (though appreciated) with every ounce.

George Weingeroff spent 18 years in the ring, from sharing the ring and road with icons like Macho Man Randy Savage (seen here in the middle) to stretching rookies who underestimated him. All the while, few knew he was legally blind!

George Weingeroff: A Legally Blind Wrestler’s Secret Tale

by PW Wade  Jul 15, 2025

George Weingeroff wrestled professionally for 18 years while legally blind – a secret so well-kept that opponents refused to believe it!

Baron Mikel Scicluna over the years.

Baron Mikel Scicluna – The Velvet-Caped Villain From Malta

by Benny J. Scala  Jun 8, 2023

Many wrestlers during the WWWF era disappeared after an appearance or two. But then there was the great Baron Mikel Scicluna!

The Ric Flair and Triple H storyline on May 19, 2003's edition of WWE Monday Night Raw was one of the best one-day storylines in the history of the business.

Ric Flair, Triple H, and the Greatest One-Night WWE Storyline

by Si Powell  Nov 15, 2024

Even as a 54-year-old, this flash-in-the-pan scenario with Triple H showed WWE fans precisely who the real Nature Boy Ric Flair was!

Long before Justin Roberts, Lilian Garcia, Tony Chimel, and Howard Finkel were putting inflection into their voice, there was a boxing and wrestling ring announcer by the name of Jimmy Lennon Sr. He was the gold standard, and he commanded his voice unlike any other.

Jimmy Lennon Sr. – Boxing and Wrestling’s Unsung GOAT

by Dr. Mike Lano  Apr 28, 2022

Boxing and wrestling ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Sr. was the gold standard, and he commanded a voice unlike any other.

Marvel's WCW: World Championship Wrestling fizzled out after only 12 issues. We dig into the untold tale behind why the WCW comic failed.

WCW Comic Disaster: How It All Went Wrong!

by Javier Ojst  Apr 30, 2023

Marvel’s WCW: World Championship Wrestling fizzled out after only 12 issues. We dig into the untold tale behind why the WCW comic failed.

Former WWE CEO Vince McMahon had a well-known lack of interest in working with other major promotions. However, the forbidden door between the WWE and NJPW (New Japan Pro Wrestling) has opened intermittently over the past fifty years. And each time that door opened, something uncommon occurred, moments WWE refuse to acknowledge.

WWE and NJPW: Their On-Again, Off-Again Relationship

by Aarij Arifeen  Mar 9, 2023

WWE and NJPW have had on-and-off partnerships over the years. Each time the forbidden door opens between the two, something uncommon occurs!

Legends Live on in "Wrestling Then & Now" Documentary

Legends Live on in “Wrestling Then & Now” Documentary

by Evan Ginzburg  Dec 21, 2020

Many legends of the squared circle have left us but they live on, not only in our hearts but in a film from the heart,…

Unique gimmick matches are amongst the most fun in professional wrestling. However, many make only one appearance, never to be used again. Here are surprising details about why!

Wrestling Match Types Used Once in WWE But Never Again

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 12, 2023

Unique gimmick matches are amongst the most fun in pro wrestling. However, many are used once only. Here are surprising details about why!

The forgotten 1983 St. Louis wrestling war saw two powerhouse promotions destroy each other while Vince McMahon quietly positioned himself to claim victory ...without even fighting.

1983 St Louis Wrestling War McMahon Won Doing Nothing

by Rick Fields  Aug 4, 2025

In 1983, two wrestling promotions destroyed each other in St. Louis while Vince McMahon watched, waited, and won everything.

Are Undertaker and Kane brothers? Plus thirteen other wrestling family facts you should know!

Are Undertaker and Kane Brothers? 13 Wrestling Family Facts!

by M. Nadeem  Jul 30, 2025

Are Undertaker and Kane brothers? Plus, discover thirteen other wrestling family relationship facts you should know!

Suzie Tanner, professional wrestling's first female referee.

Suzie Tanner: Secret Tale of Pro Wrestling’s First Female Referee

by Javier Ojst  May 8, 2024

Meet Suzie Tanner, the first female pro wrestling referee who fought for her dreams in a sport where opportunities for women were sparse.

What a fright! "Kane" Glenn Jacobs shares a story of the time he gave an old couple the fright of a lifetime!

‘Kane’ Glenn Jacobs on His Hotel Room Surprise

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 27, 2023

“Kane” Glenn Jacobs opens up about the time he was on the road and gave an old couple the fright of a lifetime!

“The Story of Catch: Lancashire Catch-as-catch-can Wrestling” by Ruslan C. Pashayev (front and back cover shown). This groundbreaking 250-page historical work, published in 2019, represents seven years of meticulous research into the forgotten origins of catch wrestling. Book Cover Credit: Ruslan C. Pashayev.

The Story of Catch: Uncovering Wrestling’s Hidden History

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Mar 4, 2025

Our honest review of Ruslan C. Pashayev’s book, The Story of Catch: A Deep Dive into Lancashire’s Wrestling History and Myths Debunked.

Owen Hart - 6 Stories Showing The Kind of Man He Was

Owen Hart – 6 Stories Revealing The Kind of Man He Was

by Matt Pender  Jul 7, 2022

These tales reveal exactly the kind of man Owen Hart was. Stories from Bret Hart, Triple H, Scott Hall (Razor Ramon), Jim Ross, and more.

Moments before Brock Lesnar and The Rock do battle at SummerSlam 2002.

Brock Lesnar and The Rock – The Real Story of SummerSlam 2002

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 10, 2023

The Rock was visibly angry at the conclusion of SummerSlam 2002. Brock Lesnar was now the youngest WWE champion of all time.

Son and father: Mike Graham and Eddie Graham. Their tragic tale leave many questions left unanswered, though their legacy lives on.

Eddie Graham and Mike Graham: Legacy & Dark Secret Tragedy

by Javier Ojst  May 14, 2025

The tragic tale of father and son Mike Graham and Eddie Graham leaves many unanswered questions, though their legacy lives on.

US President Donald Trump’s decades-long relationship with Vince McMahon and WWE has intertwined business, entertainment, and politics. Photo Credit: WWE. Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

President Donald Trump & The McMahons’ Secret WWE Empire

by JP Zarka  Jan 21, 2025

US President Donald Trump’s complex WWE journey with thee McMahons—from WrestleMania to his Hall of Fame induction, and beyond.

Hulk Hogan and Brutus Beefcake go back to the 1970s. This image comes from a Classic Memphis Wrestling TV appearance on July 21st, 1979.

Hulk Hogan and Brutus Beefcake: Troubled Beginnings

by Christopher M. Hendricks  Jun 11, 2023

Hulk Hogan and Brutus The Barber Beefcake have a long and varied history in professional wrestling, and their start was anything but smooth!

"Canada's Greatest Athlete" Gene Kiniski and "The Greatest" Muhammad Ali were known for their sharp tongues, and when these two respected champions met, they did not hold back!

Muhammad Ali and Gene Kiniski: A Battle of Words!

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

Gene Kiniski and Muhammad Ali were known for their sharp tongues, and when these two respected champions met, they did not hold back!

The “New” Rockers: Al Snow (then known as Leif Cassidy) with Marty Jannetty.

12 Failed Wrestling Tag Team Remakes and Rehashes

by Leroy Travers  Nov 27, 2024

Top 12 Failed Tag Team Remakes – Each of these tag teams had hopes of riding a new wave of nostalgia – instead, they fell…

Hulk Hogan and Vince McMahon on the set of Tuesday Night Titans (TNT). The 1980s marked a pivotal era in professional wrestling—or “sports entertainment,” as Vince McMahon coined it—with Mr. McMahon and Hulk Hogan leading a revolution that transformed the WWF into a global pop culture phenomenon.

Mr. McMahon’s Masterplan: Hogan, MTV & WWE’s Rise in the ’80s

by Javier Ojst  Sep 26, 2024

Uncover Vince McMahon’s game-changing 1980s masterplan: Hulk Hogan, Cyndi Lauper, MTV, and how it ignited WWE’s (then WWF) meteoric rise.

Explore 10 of the hottest pro wrestling feuds of the 1960s and '70s that captivated fans, raked in money, and even inspired riots!

10 Hottest Pro Wrestling Feuds of the ’60s & ’70s

by Rick Fields  Sep 27, 2024

Explore 10 of the hottest pro wrestling feuds of the 1960s and ’70s that captivated fans, raked in money, and even inspired riots!

Goldust | The Time Dustin Rhodes Almost Got Breast Implants

Goldust | The Time Dustin Rhodes Almost Got Breast Implants

by Rob Ireland  Jan 10, 2023

How Goldust (Dustin Rhodes), a 260-pound Texas redneck, pitched the idea of getting breast enhancement surgery to Vince McMahon and Jim Ross!

Although Roddy Piper rightly gets credit for propelling Hulk Hogan into sports-entertainment supremacy and pop culture prominence (though arguably not enough), the story of how he helped lay the foundation for the rise of Ric Flair is far less familiar.

Roddy Piper and Ric Flair – A Less Familiar Story

by Chris Dreibelbis  Feb 6, 2023

The less familiar story of how Roddy Piper helped lay the foundation for the rise of another wrestling icon of the Golden Era: Ric Flair.

The Undertaker walking through an arena of fans amid rumors that Eric Bischoff was trying to snag him to the WCW

Eric Bischoff – How He Almost Signed A Crucial WWE Figure

by James Klonowski  Jul 21, 2021

We sift through each of the lingering rumors about Eric Bischoff potentially signing marquee talent from WWE to WCW. Was it Undertaker?

Sputnik Monroe was a bad guy in the ring, but a hero on the outside who challenged the status quo of racial segregation in the south.

Sputnik Monroe | The Wrestling Rebel Who Challenged Racial Divide

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

The remarkable story of the grappler who tirelessly fought to end segregation in Memphis and the whole of the South, Sputnik Monroe.

Lance Russell interviewed a who's who of wrestling stars during a career that spanned six decades in the wrestling business. Through it all, he maintained his sense of humor and his dignity. 

Lance Russell: Remembering the Nicest Man in Wrestling

by Bobby Mathews  Mar 14, 2024

Lance Russell had a career in the wrestling business spanning six decades. Listening to him was better than being ringside!

‘Brutal’ Honesty: Hanging with ROH’s BRUTAL BOB EVANS

by Bobby Mathews  Nov 7, 2019

Ring of Honor’s Bob Evans shares his wisdom: “Wherever you go in this business, I want you to be the best that you can be…

Uncover the untold story of El Santo, one of Mexico's greatest luchadors and pop culture phenomenons, in these tales of hardship and triumph.

El Santo Unmasked: 10 Secret Tales on the Superstar Luchador

by Javier Ojst  Feb 5, 2025

Uncover the untold story of El Santo, one of Mexico’s greatest luchadors and pop culture phenomenons, in these tales of hardship and triumph.

16 WWE Records Most Fans Don't Know About!

16 WWE Records Most Fans Don’t Know About!

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 5, 2025

With no offseason in wrestling, WWE Records are getting broken every year — records most fans aren’t even aware of. We’re here to change that!

Remembering Calgary Stampede Star, TIGER KHAN

by Evan Ginzburg  Nov 7, 2019

Tiger Khan was on the rise. But like many wrestlers before him and likely after, he treated his body like a chemistry set. In the…

Asuka has been successful in a variety of industries outside of professional wrestling.

Asuka and Her Surprising Life Outside of Wrestling

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 11, 2023

Asuka is an incredible wrestler, but her skills don’t end there. She has had work in a variety of industries that may surprise you!

Whether it's today's boxing, mixed martial arts (MMA), or pro wrestling, they all have the ancient gladiators to thank!

Ancient Gladiators and Pro Wrestling: Surprising Ties Uncovered

by Ethan Absler  Mar 7, 2023

The ages may separate ancient gladiators and pro wrestling, but if you dig deep, you’ll find shocking ties between fighters of old and new!

It should have been a happy time in the life of Kerry Von Erich. His wife was due to have their second child. Instead, tragedy struck.

Kerry Von Erich: Devastating Final Days of ‘The Texas Tornado’

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 27, 2023

It should have been a happy time in the life of Kerry Von Erich. His wife was due to have their second child. Instead, tragedy…

As this list shows, big WWE events don't always mean big money at the gate!

11 Lowest-Attended WWE Pay-Per-Views (PLEs) of All Time

by Griffin Kaye  Apr 22, 2025

As these 11 WWE pay-per-views (PPVs) / premium live events (PLEs) showed, big WWE events don’t always mean big money at the gate!

10 Wrestlers You May Not Know Appeared in ECW

Hidden Gems of ECW: 10 Appearances You May Have Missed

by Griffin Kaye  Apr 26, 2023

ECW rose to prominence by offering an array of talent. You might be surprised by some of these names who popped up in the Land…

From the tragic ending for one particular wrestling turtle to the many superstars like John Cena, Sheamus, and Kevin Nash who've got in on the act, here are six times the wrestling world harnessed the turtle power of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Wrestling Connection!

by Tim Buckler  Aug 24, 2022

From tragic endings to wrestling superstars, here are 7 times wrestling harnessed the turtle power of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!

Wrestling’s Unsung: Those History Hasn’t Been Kind To

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 25, 2023

It’s time to show love and appreciation for those usually underserved in the wrestling world – the unsung heroes who rarely get credit.

Nigel McGuinness: one of wrestling's greats.

Nigel McGuinness: One of Wrestling’s Greatest “What If’s”

by Ian Aldous  May 24, 2023

Nigel McGuinness is one of the biggest ‘What if’s’ in wrestling history. These are the triumphs and tragedies of one of wrestling’s finest.

Professional wrestling Iron Mike Sharpe pointing at himself with his left hand while raising his right, clenched fist in the air.

Iron Mike Sharpe: Secret Tale of Canada’s Greatest Athlete

by Benny J. Scala  Feb 21, 2024

From “Canada’s Greatest Athlete” to WWE fall, the secret tale of Iron Mike Sharpe is as colorful as his persona in (and out) of the…

Triple H: Why Owen Hart Was Never World Heavyweight Champion

Triple H: Why Owen Hart Was Never World Heavyweight Champion

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

Triple H opens up about Owen Hart, the issues between Owen and his brother Bret, and why he was never World Heavyweight Champion in the…

Time Machine: The Story of a Wrestling Fan in 1968

by Benny J. Scala  Nov 7, 2019

Jump aboard the wrestling time machine. Next stop, 1968. Be advised, you may experience slight turbulence and high levels of nostalgia ahead!

WWWF World Champion Superstar Billy Graham attracts looks of awe from envious fans.

Superstar Billy Graham: Uncovering the Untold Truths of His Life

by Javier Ojst  Sep 25, 2024

The story of Superstar Billy Graham is of life and death and health; it’s not so much a pro wrestling story. This goes way beyond…

The NWA Central States Wrestling territory thrived under the tutelage of Bob Giegel (center) and stars such as (from left to right) Harley Race, "Tarzan" Killer Kowalski, Sonny Myers, Mike George, Black Angus Campbell, Steve Regal, "Bulldog" Bob Brown, Dewey Robertson (pre-Missing Link), Wild Bill Longson, "The Big O" Bob Orton Sr., Danny Little Bear, "Nature Boy" Roger Kirby, Orville Brown, "The Freight Train" Rufus R. Jones, and a host of others.

NWA Central States Wrestling: The Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Nov 10, 2023

Central States Wrestling (Heart of America Sports Attractions) was one of the original NWA territories that thrived until its demise in 1989.

Peers would describe Ion Croitoru (AKA Johnny K-9 and Bruiser Bedlam) as the happiest guy in the locker room. “A smile on his face every time you saw him!” But behind closed doors, his life of crime would lead to a tragic conclusion.

Bruiser Bedlam: Wrestler Ion Croitoru’s Secret Life of Crime

by Javier Ojst  Mar 12, 2023

Peers described Ion Croitoru (Johnny K-9, Bruiser Bedlam) as the happiest guy in the locker room. His life would lead to a tragic conclusion.

WWE Greatest Royal Rumble Fluke Finish – A Throwback to a Classic

by Bobby Mathews  May 26, 2022

The fluke finish fans saw at the WWE Greatest Royal Rumble in April of 2018 was a throwback to a classic, and here’s why.

Jake "The Snake" Roberts with his reptilian counterpart Damian, The British Bulldogs' Matilda, and Koko B Ware with his beloved bird, Frankie.

Chilling Stories on the Animals in Professional Wrestling

by Matt Pender  Jan 12, 2023

Here is a shocking look into the real-life, tragic stories of many of our favorite animals in professional wrestling.

In the prime of Andre the Giant's career, Evan Ginzburg from Pro Wrestling Stories had the privilege of witnessing some of his most memorable matches. Below are twelve of his finest performances!

Witnessing History: Andre the Giant’s 12 Best Matches

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 26, 2023

At WrestleMania 3, a near immobile Andre the Giant broke box office records vs Hulk Hogan. But how did he stack up in the ring…

Professional wrestling around Christmastime isn't just about high-flying moves and body slams. Explore the twelve most iconic and surprising wrestling moments that took place around Christmas, where the festive spirit and ring energy collided in an unforgettable way!

13 Christmas Wrestling Moments: The Good, Bad & Bizarre

by Kevin Tanza  Dec 16, 2024

Discover the 13 most iconic wrestling moments that took place on Christmas, including the time Santa won a WWE championship title!

Hulk Hogan, Kevin Nash, and the Fingerpoke of Doom!

Hulk Hogan, Kevin Nash, and the Fingerpoke of Doom!

by Joseph Finnegan  Oct 4, 2024

The Fingerpoke of Doom: The controversial moment involving Hulk Hogan and Kevin Nash that ignited the dramatic downfall of WCW.

From underdogs to legends: Discover 13 unexpected instances where mid-card wrestlers stepped into the main-event spotlight of WWE PPVs.

13 Times Mid-Carders Main-Evented a WWE PPV

by Kevin Tanza  Jun 15, 2024

From underdogs to legends: Discover 13 unexpected instances where mid-card wrestlers stepped into the main-event spotlight of WWE PPVs.

Championship Belt Maker Dave Millican Shares His Pieces of History

Dave Millican: Tales From a Premier Championship Belt Maker

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 18, 2023

Dave Millican is the premier championship belt maker in the world. He graciously opened his home for an interview where treasures awaited.

Rhonda Sing Remembered - From Monster Ripper to Bertha Faye

Monster Ripper to Bertha Faye: Secret Story of Rhonda Sing

by Javier Ojst  Sep 1, 2025

Rhonda Sing wrestled as the punishing Monster Ripper and Bertha Faye. She had a rapid journey to the top but a fast descent once joining…

Tracy Smothers wrestling a muzzleless bear in Continental Championship Wrestling.

Tracy Smothers – The Wild-Eyed Southern Boy Who Wrestled Bears!

by Javier Ojst  Mar 1, 2023

Tracy Smothers prayed before facing a 550-pound bear a second night in a row. The Humane Society and The World Wildlife Fund looked on.

An overzealous fan attacked Randy Orton in Cape Town, South Africa on July 30, 2013.

Randy Orton and the Time He Was Attacked By a Fan

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

Live events are supposed to be more of an intimate experience for the fan, but this one time, a fan got a little too close…

Hiro Matsuda - The Man Who Broke Hulk Hogan's Leg!

Hiro Matsuda: The Man Who Broke Hulk Hogan’s Leg!

by Javier Ojst  May 15, 2024

Who was Hiro Matsuda and what were the events that shaped the man who Hulk Hogan claims broke his leg on his first day of…

Fumi Saito alongside Bruiser Brody and Jimmy Snuka.

Fumi Saito: Japan’s Leading Wrestling Historian and Journalist

by Javier Ojst  Nov 8, 2022

It isn’t easy to overstate how entrenched Fumi Saito has been in the professional wrestling industry for the past four decades.

From rock stars to IRS agents, we spotlight 10 WWE wrestlers who weren't just grappling giants and moonlighted as everyday professionals!

10 WWE Wrestlers Whose Gimmick Involved a Day Job

by Matt Roberts  Jan 5, 2024

From rock stars to IRS agents, we spotlight 10 WWE wrestlers who weren’t just grappling giants and moonlighted as everyday professionals!

Bruno Sammartino and Vince McMahon used to share the stick as commentators for the then-WWF in the early 1980s, but a heated feud between the two of them kept Sammartino away from WWE for over 25 years.

Bruno Sammartino and Vince McMahon’s Venomous 25-Year Feud

by Matt Pender  Jan 25, 2023

Bruno Sammartino and Vince McMahon hated one another, creating quite a tense moment when the two met for the very first time in over 25…

On camera, Curt Hennig was arrogant, and he backed up his Mr. Perfect persona brilliantly. However, outside of the ring, it was a different story. Here is the story of an extraordinary life with an unfortunate end.

Mr. Perfect Curt Hennig – A Great Life with an Unfortunate End

by JP Zarka  Sep 10, 2025

Curt Hennig was the embodiment of perfection. Take a deep-dive into the life of Mr. Perfect including stories shared for the very first time!

The tension between Alex Wright and Paul Roma reached its peak at WCW SuperBrawl V on February 19th, 1995, at the Baltimore Arena, when what was supposed to be a professional wrestling match escalated into a real-life fight!

Alex Wright and Paul Roma: When Pro Wrestling Turned Real

by Ian Aldous  Sep 17, 2024

Discover what ensued when Paul Roma faced Alex Wright at WCW Superbrawl V, and frustration turned a wrestling match into a real-life fight!

There are few moves as devastating as the knee strike. Learn its fascinating history and the best examples of it in pro wrestling.

Knee Strike: Its History and Devastating Examples in Wrestling

by Logan Medenica  May 2, 2023

Discover the riveting story behind one of the most powerful moves in wrestling: the knee strike. From its origins to jaw-dropping examples!

Shocking tales of the times professional wrestlers had to preserve kayfabe during a time when this art form was heavily protected.

Kayfabe in Wrestling: Stories Fans Shouldn’t Know

by JP Zarka  Feb 13, 2023

Shocking tales of the times professional wrestlers had to preserve kayfabe during a time when this art form was heavily protected.

The legacy of Matt Borne, who played the role of the first Doink the Clown in the WWF, is a little complicated.

Doink The Clown – A Troubled Life For the Man Behind the Paint

by Bobby Mathews  Apr 22, 2025

Doink the Clown found fame in early 1990s WWE, but there was, unfortunately, trouble along the way for Matt Borne, the man behind the paint.

What happens when wrestling champions cannot defend their titles? These are the rare occasions titleholders had their belts put on the line and defended by other people!

10 Times Wrestlers Defended Another Competitor’s Title

by Griffin Kaye  Sep 20, 2023

What happens when champions can’t defend their titles? Here are the rare times titleholders had their belts defended by other wrestlers!

Eddie Guerrero and Kurt Angle, shown here in their 2004 WWE Championship match at WrestleMania XX, were like brothers outside the ring. With brothers, things tend to get a bit physical from time to time. In one instance backstage, the two of them got into it!

Shocking Real-Life Fight Between Eddie Guerrero and Kurt Angle

by JP Zarka  Feb 20, 2023

Kurt Angle and Eddie Guerrero were brothers outside of the ring, but when things didn’t go to plan in the ring, things kicked off for…

Randy Savage and Bill Dundee - Their Intense Parking Lot Brawl

Randy Savage and Bill Dundee – Their Intense Parking Lot Brawl

by Geries Tadros  Jul 15, 2025

The real-life fight between Randy Savage and Bill Dundee was a huge part of Memphis Wrestling history. These are the events that led to their…

When you open the forbidden door, anything can happen! Here are eight dream matches had they opened the forbidden door in '94!

The Forbidden Door in ’94: Dream Matches We Wish Happened

by Archie Pain  Mar 16, 2025

When you open the forbidden door, anything can happen! Here are eight dream matches had they opened the forbidden door in ’94!

Bob Roop vs. William Harding - The Ill-Fated $1000 Sugar Hold Challenge

Fan vs. Shooter: The Ill-Fated $1000 Sugar Hold Challenge

by Benny J. Scala  Nov 12, 2024

A fan took on a legendary shooter in a brutal $1,000 Sugar Hold Challenge—what happened next became the stuff of pro wrestling lore!

Bob Backlund tossing a twig! Backlund has always been a man of exceptional strength, and as one unfortunate heckler learned at a bar in Florida in the 1970s, Backlund’s kindness should NEVER be taken as a weakness!

How Bob Backlund Humiliated Obnoxious Trucker

by Matt Pender  Feb 8, 2023

Bob Backlund is known for his kind nature outside of the ring, but as this heckling truck driver learned: don’t take kindness as a weakness!

Moments before Hulk Hogan choked out TV host Richard Belzer, proving to him that wrestling CAN be very real!

Richard Belzer vs. Hulk Hogan: Costly Choking Incident on Live TV

by Tim Buckler  Oct 5, 2024

Hulk Hogan choking Richard Belzer on live TV resulted in public concern, a legal fight, and blurred the lines between wrestling and reality.

Mad Maxine was poised for greatness but, after 2 years, abruptly left the business. She opens up about the realities of her time in wrestling.

Mad Maxine: Mohawks, Moolah, and Her Surprising Story

by Javier Ojst  Jan 17, 2023

Mad Maxine was poised for greatness but, after 2 years, abruptly left the business. She opens up about the realities of her time in wrestling.

Many wrestlers have used the spear to finish opponents and cement their legacy, including these 13 who had deadly renditions of the move!

13 Most Devastating Spears in Wrestling Revealed!

by Kevin Tanza  Sep 22, 2023

Many wrestlers have used the spear to finish opponents and cement their legacy, including these 13 who had deadly renditions of the move!

Lance Von Erich (right) alongside his on-screen family, Kevin and Mike Von Erich, in 1986.

Lance Von Erich: The Secret Tale of the Non-Von Erich

by Vinny Berry  Feb 6, 2023

William Kevin Vaughn adopted the name of Lance Von Erich, though he was not related to the family at all. This is his unique story.

The ever-formidable yet wonderful Luna Vachon over the years.

Luna Vachon – A Force in the Ring with an Unfortunate End

by Javier Ojst  Mar 17, 2023

With her imposing presence, Luna Vachon was a force to be reckoned with. This is the unfortunate story of her rise and tragic fall.

Women of ECW: Beulah McGillicutty, Dawn Marie, and Francine.

Women of ECW: Untold Stories (More Than Meets the Eye!)

by Javier Ojst  Dec 8, 2023

ECW did everything they could to make sure you didn’t change the channel. With these three ladies, there was a lot more than meets the…

Thrown together seemingly at random, Steve Austin and Brian Pillman were known collectively as The Hollywood Blonds. This is their surprising story!

Steve Austin and Brian Pillman: Secret History of Hollywood Blonds

by Si Powell  Feb 19, 2023

Thrown together at random, Steve Austin and Brian Pillman were known collectively as The Hollywood Blonds. This is their surprising story!

Butch and Luke of The Bushwhackers, then known as The Sheepherders.

Inside The Bushwhackers’ Wild Early Struggles

by Matt Pender  May 31, 2023

Before Butch and Luke became The Bushwhackers, they were a despised violent team who were very lucky to leave towns with their lives!

The bond between The Rock and Triple H was initially born out of real-life resentment and envy. Here is the story of their bitter feud.

The Rock and Triple H – The Story Behind Their Bitter Feud

by Cameron Dennis Gorrie  Jan 10, 2023

The bond between The Rock and Triple H was initially born out of real-life resentment and envy. Here is the story of their bitter feud.

Nine years before the undefeated WrestleMania streak of the Undertaker was broken, a young, arrogant foe was booked to end it. However, rumors of partying the night before resulted in a change of direction the morning of the big event.

Undertaker WrestleMania Streak – The Superstar Meant To Break It

by Christopher King  Jun 7, 2021

A young, arrogant foe was booked to end the undefeated WrestleMania streak of the Undertaker, but partying the night before changed plans.

Barry Windham was a natural. But with a career of starts, stops, and frequent jumps to and from the NWA and WWF, should he have been bigger?

Barry Windham: An All-Time Great (and What Might Have Been)

by Evan Ginzburg  Dec 12, 2025

Barry Windham was a natural. But with a career of starts, stops, and frequent jumps to and from the NWA and WWF, should he have…

Chavo. Mando. Héctor. Eddie. Guerrero. A family name long associated with professional wrestling. But before each made their mark on this sport, it was their father, Gory Guerrero, paving the way for generations to come. In Mexico in 1954, to shouts of "Gory! Gory! Gory!" the patriarch of the Guerrero wrestling dynasty nearly dethroned long-reigning NWA Champion Lou Thesz.

Gory Guerrero and the Story of Lou Thesz’s Near-Dethroning

by Javier Ojst  Feb 16, 2023

Guerrero. A name long associated with wrestling. Before Eddie and his brothers, their father Gory Guerrero paved the way in an exciting way.

Once a dynamic duo on WWF commentary in the 1980s, Jesse Ventura and Vince McMahon have had a love-hate relationship over the years.

Jesse Ventura – How He Sued Vince McMahon (and Won)

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

Jesse Ventura is one of the few to take Vince McMahon to court and win. As a result, McMahon made a vow he ultimately didn’t…

Bullet Bob Armstrong, Southeastern Championship Wrestling.

Bob Armstrong | Stronger Than A Bullet

by Bobby Mathews  Jul 11, 2022

There are legends in professional wrestling. And then there’s Bullet Bob Armstrong. This is the story of the true man behind the curtain.

"Nature Boy" Ric Flair over the years.

A Surprising Not Often Seen Side of Ric Flair – 13 Notorious Tales

by Matt Pender  May 24, 2023

These tales reveal a surprising perspective on Ric Flair – the limousine-riding, jet-flying, kiss-stealing, wheelin’ dealin’ son of a gun!

The Kliq: Paul "Triple H" Levesque, Kevin Nash, Shawn Michaels, Scott Hall, and Sean "X-Pac" Waltman.

The Kliq: 10 Tales of Their WWE Locker Room Stranglehold

by Joseph Finnegan  Jul 11, 2025

The Kliq came together and ultimately dominated the WWF locker room. Learn the story of their checkered past, from those who knew them best.

Bobby “The Brain” Heenan Vs. The Ultimate Warrior - A war of words! [Photo: June 25th, 1988]

Bobby Heenan and Ultimate Warrior – A War of Words!

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

Not everyone in the wrestling industry gets along. Take, for instance, the not oft-discussed hatred between Bobby Heenan and Ultimate Warrior.

Pee-wee Herman’s WWE moments, from fist-bumping The Rock to being lifted by Big Show, marked an unexpected crossover into professional wrestling.

Pee-wee Herman’s Unlikely Pro Wrestling Crossover

by Marc Madison  Oct 2, 2024

Pee-wee Herman’s surprising WWE crossover left a lasting mark. Discover his hidden impact and how he won over fans and Superstars alike.

Steve Austin opens up about his friend Chyna, sharing how he feels she should be remembered.

What Steve Austin Has to Say About Chyna’s Legacy

by JP Zarka  Jan 26, 2023

Steve Austin opens up on the death of Chyna, her impact on the sport, and how her legacy should be remembered.

The G1 Climax is a professional wrestling tournament held yearly by the New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) promotion. From Hulk Hogan, Rick Rude (with Madusa, AKA Alundra Blayze), Keiji Mutoh (AKA The Great Muta), Ric Flair, Masahiro Chono, Antonio Inoki, and more, the tournament has attracted the very best wrestlers from around the world since 1974.

G1 Climax: Wrestling Elevated to Art

by Aarij Arifeen  Mar 3, 2023

NJPW’s G1 Climax is wrestling elevated to Art. Learn the rich history of the biggest tournament in wrestling today!

WWE Champion Edge enters the arena to defend his gold at WWE Armageddon 2008.

Popular Wrestling Theme Songs With a Surprising History!

by Alex  Jan 5, 2023

Wrestling theme songs are a significant part of a wrestler’s identity. And often, these songs come with a surprising history!

Wrestler Don Fargo lived by his own rules.

His Way or No Way: The Story of Don Fargo

by Javier Ojst  Mar 12, 2023

“I wanted to make the people believe.” Most people live from day to day; others live like there is no tomorrow. Then there was Don…

Learn what happened on that fateful plane ride that led to the 1997 arrest of William Regal!

William Regal: Plane Ride Scandal that Led to 1997 Arrest

by Matt Roberts  Nov 26, 2024

In 1997, behavior on a fateful plane ride led to the arrest and unexpected detour to an Alaskan police cell for wrestling’s William Regal.

Andy Kaufman exasperated the fans and Jerry Lawler like no other.

Andy Kaufman and Jerry Lawler – The Truth Behind Their Feud

by Javier Ojst  Sep 10, 2025

With his feud with Jerry Lawler, Andy Kaufman changed wrestling into sports entertainment, whether he knew it or not.

The legendary Sid Vicious squeegee incident involving Brian Pillman and Mike Graham.

Sid Vicious and the Infamous Squeegee Incident

by JP Zarka  Jan 23, 2023

A snide remark spiraled into chaos in an infamous standoff between Sid Vicious, Brian Pillman, and Mike Graham: The Squeegee Incident!

The 1996 Olympic gold medallist and multi-time WWE and TNA world champion Kurt Angle versus "The World's Most Dangerous Man" Ken Shamrock was discussed on several occasions, but unfortunately never came to fruition. Shamrock explains why. [design: JP Zarka / ProWrestlingStories.com]

Kurt Angle and Ken Shamrock | The Fight That Almost Was

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

An MMA fight between Kurt Angle and Ken Shamrock was all but ready to occur. Here is how this epic battle almost went down.

Kevin and Kerry Von Erich with the coveted WCCW World Heavyweight Championship.

Kevin Von Erich on His Family’s Unique Connection to Israel

by JP Zarka  Mar 6, 2023

The original WCCW championship belt held by Kerry and Kevin Von Erich was found in a Tel Aviv shopping mall. This is how it got…

Bruno Sammartino wins the WWWF Championship for the very first time after defeating Buddy Rogers in just 48 seconds at Madison Square Garden on May 17, 1963. [Photo: Pro Wrestling Illustrated]

Bruno Sammartino and Buddy Rogers – The 1963 WWWF Title Screwjob

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

This important moment in professional wrestling history between Bruno Sammartino and Buddy Rogers all but marked the end of one career and launched another.

New Jack, "6-Pac" Sean Waltman, Tyler Black (AKA Seth Rollins), Jimmy Jacobs, and Vampiro were among many wrestlers featured on MTV's ill-fated Wrestling Society X.

Wrestling Society X: The Crazy MTV Show That Didn’t Last

by Ian Aldous  Feb 9, 2023

MTV’s Wrestling Society X was wild, fast-paced, and explosive. But somewhere along the way, something went wrong.

Yokozuna, Ric Flair, and Brock Lesnar are among the WWE superstars who made history by winning the World Heavyweight Championship within their first year in the company.

11 WWE Stars Who Won World Championship in Their First Year

by Kevin Tanza  Oct 28, 2024

These 11 WWE stars stunned fans by capturing a world championship in their first year. Discover who soared to the top in record time!

For years, controversy shrouded the murder of Bruiser Brody. Reports from those present the night of his stabbing raise the question: was his murder a cover-up? We look closely into this through accounts from those there while celebrating his life through tales from those who knew him best.

Bruiser Brody: His Unpunished Murder and Influence in Wrestling

by Matt Pender  Mar 6, 2023

For years, controversy surrounded the murder of Bruiser Brody. Was it a cover-up? We look into this and his influence on pro wrestling.

Take a stroll down memory lane and look at the story of the WWF/E logo's evolution!

WWE Logo – How It’s Evolved Over The Years

by Tim Buckler  Apr 22, 2025

The WWE logo brings an instant wave of nostalgia for wrestling fans. Take a stroll down memory lane and look at the logo’s evolution!

5 Wrestlers Besides The Rock Who Starred In Movies

5 Wrestlers Besides The Rock Who Starred In Movies

by Joseph Finnegan  Oct 17, 2024

Many wrestlers have been able to make a jump into acting. We look at 5 wrestlers not named Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson who starred in…

Steve Austin presents a few birds towards a stunned Jeff Jarrett on January 5, 1998’s episode of Raw Is War.

Steve Austin and his Flat-Out Refusal to Work with Jeff Jarrett

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jun 30, 2023

When Jeff Jarrett returned to the WWF in 1997, he was promised a feud with Steve Austin. Austin refused, and the reasons were numerous.

Wrestler Rockin’ Rebel likely would have gone down in obscurity had it not been for the horrific real-life acts he would commit in 2018.

Rockin’ Rebel: Wrestling’s Shocking Unspoken Murder

by Griffin Kaye  Jan 10, 2023

Wrestler Rockin’ Rebel likely would have gone down in obscurity had it not been for the horrific real-life acts he would commit in 2018.

Greg Valentine on His Career and the Tragic Fate of His Destroyed IC Title

Greg Valentine on His Career and the Tragic Fate of His Destroyed IC Title

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 14, 2022

Greg Valentine opens up about his favorite feuds in wrestling, and the tragic fate of his destroyed Intercontinental title!

Atsushi Onita faced Terry Funk in the first-ever Timebomb Deathmatch at FMW's Kawasaki Stadium supercard on May 5, 1993. It was an explosive match that set the standard for extreme wrestling in Japan.

Atsushi Onita and FMW: Japan’s Extreme Wrestling Revolution

by Javier Ojst  Jan 14, 2026

From busted rings to sold-out stadiums, Atsushi Onita turned FMW into Japan’s most extreme wrestling promotion and a cultural phenomenon.

From Bruno Sammartino, Dusty Rhodes, and beyond, here are ten of the best Superstar Billy Graham matches we saw live before, during, and after his run as WWWF World Heavyweight Champion.

Witnessing History: Superstar Billy Graham’s Best Matches

by Evan Ginzburg  May 18, 2023

His promos talked you into a building, and his charisma shook said venue. But how did Superstar Billy Graham stack up in his matches?

Sweet Daddy Siki, one of wrestling’s groundbreaking trailblazers, passed away on December 31, 2024, at 91. Known as “Mr. Irresistible,” Siki’s legacy transcended the ring, breaking racial barriers in the industry and inspiring generations of wrestlers, including WWE Hall of Famers Edge and Christian Cage.

Sweet Daddy Siki Documentary: An Honest Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 6, 2025

Sweet Daddy Siki: an honest look at a gripping yet flawed documentary on a charismatic trailblazer who broke barriers in wrestling and song.

From Hulk Hogan to a particular tag team from Scotland, learn about the unexpected tie that binds Highlander with professional wrestling!

Immortals and Suplexes: 5 Hidden Highlander and Wrestling Connections

by Tim Buckler  Oct 6, 2023

From Hulk Hogan to a particular tag team from Scotland, learn about five unexpected ties that bind Highlander with professional wrestling!

Pro Wrestling Stories Founder JP Zarka on Dan & Benny in the Ring

Pro Wrestling Stories Founder JP Zarka on Dan & Benny in the Ring

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 13, 2022

In a special episode of Dan & Benny In The Ring, the founder of Pro Wrestling Stories, JP Zarka, shares the stories behind his stories…

When "Earthquake" John Tenta faced off against Kōji Kitao on March 30th, 1991, things turned real!

Earthquake John Tenta and Kōji Kitao – When Things Turned Real!

by Javier Ojst  Apr 22, 2023

When Earthquake John Tenta and Kōji Kitao faced off in 1991, things turned very real. It would soon become headline news all over Japan.

Pepper Martin gets awarded at the Cauliflower Alley Club in 2016 for a lifetime of excellence in wrestling, film/TV, and more, as a champion wrestler, and as Rocky, the bad guy you loved to hate in Superman II!

Pepper Martin – A Champion’s Final Fight

by Dr. Mike Lano  Jan 10, 2023

Pepper Martin endured it all as an actor, wrestler, and color commentator. He now finds himself fighting his biggest battle yet.

"The Golden Greek" John Tolos over the years.

John Tolos: Secret History on the Golden Greek

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 19, 2023

‘How do you spell wrestling? T-O-L-O-S!’ The story of The Golden Greek, John Tolos, in his own words and from the people who knew him…

Mike Awesome, Horace Hogan (Michael Bollea), and Hulk Hogan.

30 Wrestlers You May Not Know Were Related!

by Griffin Kaye  Jun 21, 2023

A family name carries weight in wrestling. However, there have been many relations kept off TV for varying reasons. Here are many examples!

Savio Vega Day is upon us! His Best Matches – The AMA Pre-show

by JP Zarka  Nov 7, 2019

The very best matches of Puerto Rican great, Savio Vega

Sean Waltman opens up about how he once beat WWE substance testing through an unexpected assist by a corrupt administrator in 1995.

Sean Waltman on Who Helped Wrestlers Beat a Drug Test

by Matt Pender  Mar 8, 2023

One time, to the surprise of Sean Waltman, a corrupt administrator unexpectedly helped him and others beat the test.

The WWE Hall of Fame has produced infamous backstage stories and a share of bizarre moments -- things WWE doesn't want their fans to know!

7 Hall of Fame Stories WWE Prefers Not Told

by Griffin Kaye  May 29, 2025

The WWE Hall of Fame tends to bring unexpected drama, controversy, and secrets. Explore seven stories WWE doesn’t want fans to know!

Oscar opens up about his time with Men on a Mission, backstage problems with The Kliq, wrestling today, and his sudden departure from WWE.

Oscar and the Surprising Story of Men on a Mission

by Javier Ojst  Oct 19, 2025

Oscar opens up about his time with Men on a Mission, backstage problems with The Kliq, wrestling today, and his sudden departure from WWE.

Bruno Sammartino and Ivan Koloff square off at Madison Square Garden, January 18, 1971.

Bruno Sammartino and Ivan Koloff – The Night They Shocked the World

by Matt Pender  Apr 17, 2025

Bruno Sammartino and Ivan Koloff reflect on the night Koloff almost started a riot by ending Bruno’s almost 8-year reign as world champion.

Brickhouse Brown – Passes Away After Initially Kicking Out From Death

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 10, 2023

We are sad to report that Brickhouse Brown has, in fact, passed away on July 29, 2018 after initially kicking out from death nine days…

Relive the 1980s WWE golden era with 10 underrated heels who made a lasting impact, even if they didn’t get the recognition they deserved.

10 WWE Heels From the 1980s Who Deserve More Love!

by Richard Thompson  Oct 11, 2024

Relive the 1980s WWE golden era with 10 underrated heels who made a lasting impact, even if they didn’t get the recognition they deserved.

The Yeti in WCW - What Was That All About?

The Yeti in WCW: Behind One Of Wrestling’s Most Awkward Debuts

by JP Zarka  Nov 17, 2025

Why The Yeti was called that (despite being a mummy), who was initially cast, and the accidental moment with Hulk Hogan at Halloween Havoc!

Legends of El Salvador Wrestling: Mr. Flama, Bucanero, Sordo Mudo Cruz, Diablo Rojo, El Satánico, and Tulipan Negro.

El Salvador Wrestling – Stories of Grit, Near-Death, and Triumph

by Javier Ojst  Feb 26, 2024

Although these El Salvador wrestling legends aren’t known to all, these stories of grit, triumphs, and even near-death are worthy of any fan.

The International Championship Wrestling (ICW) territory, under the tutelage of Angelo Poffo and his sons, Randy Poffo (Savage) and Lanny Poffo, thrived with stars such as (from left to right) Miss Elizabeth Hulette, “Hustler” Rip Rogers, George Weingeroff, Gary Royal, “Ratamyus” Bill Howard, “Pistol” Pez Whatley, “The Devils Duo” Doug Vines and Jeff Sword with manager Izzy Slapawitz, Mike Doggendorf, “Crusher Broomfield” George Gray (later known as One Man Gang and Akeem), Barry O (Orton), Bob Roop, Ox Baker, “Ginger” the Wrestling Bear, Ron Wright, Ronnie Garvin, The Great Boris Malenko, Bob Orton, The Mizer, and a host of others. Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

ICW Wrestling Territory: The Poffo Family’s Outlaw Promotion

by Jim Phillips  Nov 10, 2025

Angelo Poffo, Randy Savage, and Lanny Poffo’s ICW wrestling territory defied conventions, forged legends, and reshaped wrestling history.

Pro wrestling comes with many tales of heartbreak outside the ring. These 21 wholesome WWE pictures prove brightness beyond the shadows!

21 Wholesome WWE Pictures Proving Dreams Come True!

by Tim Buckler  Nov 6, 2023

Pro wrestling comes with many tales of heartbreak outside the ring. These 21 wholesome WWE pictures prove brightness beyond the shadows!

Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker lie battered and bloodied inside the ring following the first-ever Hell in a Cell match at Badd Blood: In Your House on October 5, 1997, in St. Louis, Missouri. Captured from high above the steel structure that changed WWE forever, this iconic shot embodies what Hell in a Cell came to represent – pain, sacrifice, and legacy.

Hell in a Cell: 6 Defining Moments and Their Untold Stories

by Joseph Finnegan  Jun 26, 2025

What really happened inside WWE’s most feared match? These 6 iconic Hell in a Cell moments come with stories fans were never told.

Mad Dog Vachon was a tough-as-nails wrestler known for his intimidating fighting prowess in and out of the ring.

Mad Dog Vachon: An Animal in (and Out!) of the Ring

by JP Zarka  Feb 20, 2023

From taking on schoolboys to discovering pro wrestling off of the advice of a mafia godfather, the story of Mad Dog Vachon is quite a…

Jacqueline Moore - A tough, shining star out of Texas.

Jacqueline Moore – A Tough, Shining Star Out of Texas

by Ebony Nash  Jan 11, 2023

Jacqueline Moore was one of the toughest to step inside a squared circle. However, this WWE Hall of Famer’s talent goes much beyond the ring!

This Wrestling Life | Wrestling's Golden Age Reflected Through Poetry

This Wrestling Life | Wrestling’s Golden Age Reflected Through Poetry

by Damian Balassone  Jan 29, 2020

The most nostalgic era of wrestling reflected in short, playful rhymes, that marvel at the grand theatre of wrestling from that golden age.

Amid a Manager of the Year competition in 1985, frontrunner Lou Albano, now a fan favorite, was attacked by Freddie Blassie. The next thing we knew, we had “The Fossil Jostle.” What an eyesore it would become...

Freddie Blassie, Lou Albano, and The Fossil Jostle Atrocity in ’85

by Evan Ginzburg  Mar 6, 2023

In 1985, Freddie Blassie attacked Lou Albano amid a Manager of the Year competition. This led to The Fossil Jostle. What an eyesore it was…

From towering giants to tiny warriors, the above twenty bizarre wrestling oddities and sideshow acts stunned and captivated fans worldwide!

Wrestling Human Oddities: 20 Freakish Sideshow Acts

by Javier Ojst  Oct 19, 2024

From towering giants to tiny warriors, explore 20 bizarre wrestling oddities and sideshow acts that stunned and captivated fans worldwide!

Kurt Angle opens up about his past struggles in hopes that it changes lives for the better.

Kurt Angle – Using His Past Struggles to Help Others

by JP Zarka  Jul 26, 2021

Kurt Angle has lost many close loved ones. He almost lost himself, and he has a story to share that he hopes will save lives.

With CM Punk and Jeff Hardy, the lines were always blurred between storyline and reality.

CM Punk and Jeff Hardy – Blurred Lines Between Story and Reality

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

CM Punk and Jeff Hardy had an outstanding rivalry, holding up today as one of the greatest feuds of the last decade. For a good…

RIP Owen Hart (1965-1999).

Owen Hart’s Death: What Really Happened, From Those There

by Matt Pender  Jun 13, 2023

Wrestlers reflect on Owen Hart’s tragic death, the dark truths of WWE’s fatal mishap, and Vince McMahon’s controversial decision.

Discover 7 untold triumphs and disasters inside WWE’s Elimination Chamber. From career-ending injuries to legendary victories revealed.

7 Elimination Chamber Moments That Broke WWE

by Joseph Finnegan  Sep 8, 2025

Discover 7 untold triumphs and disasters inside WWE’s Elimination Chamber. From career-ending injuries to legendary victories revealed.

"The Loose Cannon" Brian Pillman.

Brian Pillman: His Tale of Deception Before Untimely Death

by Rob Ireland  Jan 10, 2023

Brian Pillman played ECW, WCW and WWF against each other, securing himself one of the first guaranteed contracts. Here’s how he pulled it off.

Bruiser Brody with his son, Geoffrey. Brody died on July 17th, 1988.

Final Moments of Bruiser Brody and the Mystery that Followed

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 22, 2023

Circumstances surrounding the murder of Bruiser Brody remain a mystery. Here are the known theories and the twists and turns that followed.

Kalisto - The Wrestling Move That Nearly Cost Him His Life

Kalisto – The Wrestling Move That Nearly Cost Him His Life

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

Kalisto reveals a scary detail from his life and career, a moment that nearly cost him his life and almost had him quit wrestling altogether.

Frankie Kazarian and Lanny Poffo backstage at ALL IN on September 1st, 2018.

Frankie Kazarian Leaves Lanny Poffo in Tears at ALL IN

by JP Zarka  Feb 4, 2023

Frankie Kazarian and Lanny Poffo get emotional talking about this moment that took place backstage at ALL IN in 2018.

Backstage at the Indies – “It Hurts, It Hurts!”, WWE Stomping Grounds Wrap-Up

by Evan Ginzburg  Nov 7, 2019

Backstage at an indie show at the Elks Lodge in Queens, New York, WWE Stomping Grounds PPV wrap-up, how you can help former wrestling manager…

Gargano and Ciampa - Quintessential Feud of the Modern Era

Gargano and Ciampa – Quintessential Feud of the Modern Era

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Nov 14, 2023

The feud between Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa is a journey of friendship, betrayal, and ghosts that continue to linger in the background.

"Creative" sometimes second-guesses themselves, even minutes before a match! Here are ten times WWE changed finishes at the last second.

10 Times WWE Changed Finishes at the Last Second

by Ethan Absler  Jan 10, 2025

“Creative” sometimes second-guesses themselves, even minutes before a match! Here are ten times WWE changed finishes at the last second.

Shawn Michaels | His Evolution Through Commentary (1991-1998)

Shawn Michaels | His Evolution Through Commentary (1991-1998)

by Heishin Ko  Dec 12, 2020

How the ‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels evolved as a character over the years from 1991-1998, through the words of commentary.

"Big Daddy Cool" Diesel.

Diesel: From Failed Gimmicks to Record-Breaking WWF Champion

by Si Powell  Jan 10, 2023

Kevin Nash as Diesel ticked all the boxes for Vince McMahon as a world champion. This is the story of his record-breaking WWF title reign.

Explore 30 facts about 19th-century wrestling. Discover the truths behind myths, legendary athletes, and the real “Golden Era” of wrestling!

19th Century Wrestling: 30 Untold Facts Revealed!

by Ruslan C. Pashayev  Oct 28, 2024

Explore 30 facts about 19th-century wrestling. Discover the truths behind myths, legendary athletes, and the real “Golden Era” of wrestling.

15 Celebrities You May Not Know Were Wrestling Fans!

15 Celebrities You May Not Know Were Wrestling Fans!

by Darren Paltrowitz  Jun 9, 2023

Wrestling is a mainstream form of entertainment that attracts followers from all walks of life including these 15 celebrity wrestling fans.

Every so often, WWE will shock and awe fans (even if it means purposely fooling them)! Here are ten times WWE trolled their viewers.

10 Surprising Moments WWE Deceived Their Fans

by Ethan Absler  Feb 3, 2023

WWE has had many shocking moments over the years. Learn about the times they purposely deceived their fans (you won’t believe the stories)!

From TNA’s leadership under Dixie Carter (left) through AJ Styles’ reign as the standard bearer (center) to Mike Santana’s historic Bound for Glory 2025 win (right), the brand has weathered the storm over more than two decades of evolution.

Inside TNA’s 20-Year Fight for Wrestling Glory

by Ian Aldous  Oct 14, 2025

Discover TNA’s high-stakes journey from PPV gamble to Impact resurgence: chaos, innovation, and a daring quest to rival WWE.

Vince McMahon and Kurt Angle (pictured from a March 28th, 2002 SmackDown taping) had a scuffle at 38,000 feet. When Undertaker woke up during the melee, he reacted accordingly!

Kurt Angle, Vince McMahon, and their Brutal Fight on a Flight!

by Christopher King  Mar 6, 2023

Kurt Angle and Vince McMahon had a legendary scuffle on a flight back from London. A sleeping Undertaker awoke and acted accordingly!

Bruiser Brody and Lex Luger during their infamous steel cage match that went wrong at the War Memorial Auditorium in Florida, January 1987.

Bruiser Brody and Lex Luger Steel Cage Controversy

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 19, 2024

In January 1987, Bruiser Brody and Lex Luger clashed in a steel cage match that became legendary for all the wrong reasons.

Sean Waltman reflects on the near-career-ending injury he sustained in 1992. Doctors advised him to never wrestle again, but he wouldn't listen.

Sean Waltman – The Injury That Almost Derailed His Career

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

Sean Waltman reflects on the traumatic injury he sustained in 1992. Doctors advised him to never wrestle again, but he wouldn’t listen.

From left to right: Sam Sheppard and his wife Marilyn Reese, Sheppard's mug shot in 1954, and while wrestling as "Killer" Sam Sheppard a few months before his death.

Sam Sheppard – How a Murder Inspired a Wrestling Career

by Michael Marek  Jul 10, 2025

Sam Sheppard was convicted of murder in 1954. He’d later wrestle, where his anatomical knowledge inspired a popular Attitude Era move!

The infamous tale of Shawn Michaels forfeiting his third WWF Intercontinental Championship after an infamous marines incident in Syracuse in '95.

Shawn Michaels and the Infamous Syracuse Incident

by Griffin Kaye  Dec 15, 2025

Shawn Michaels and the infamous 1995 Syracuse incident with Marines left lasting scars. Uncover the truth behind that nearly fatal night.

After years of tension, Vince McMahon and Eric Bischoff finally put the past behind them with an unexpected handshake on July 15th, 2002's episode of Monday Night Raw!

Eric Bischoff’s Shocking WWE Debut: Uncovering the Truth

by Anthony Milano  Jan 23, 2023

From the enemy to an ally. Step-by-step, Eric Bischoff reveals how he joined the WWE – and trust us, it’s a wild ride!

Jake Roberts makes his way to the ring at WCW Halloween Havoc 1992.

Jake Roberts in WCW: Money, Grudges, and Personal Ruin

by Griffin Kaye  May 25, 2023

Jake Roberts faced struggles after leaving the WWF in 1992. This is the fascinating story of his short, controversial run in WCW.

Shawn Michaels and Vader battling it out at SummerSlam '96.

Shawn Michaels and Vader | How HBK Sabotaged Vader’s WWF Career

by JP Zarka  Dec 28, 2022

After the feud of Shawn Michaels and Vader which culminated at SummerSlam 1996, Vader’s career in the WWF was never the same.

Eddie Guerrero and Brock Lesnar – An Unlikely Hero Conquers

by Joseph Finnegan  Apr 19, 2021

In recent years, Brock Lesnar has been booked as an undefeatable beast, but in 2004, this beast was conquered by Eddie Guerrero.

In a frightening moment, Mick Foley gets caught up in the ropes in a match against Vader in Germany in 1994. Moments later, he would lose his ear.

Mick Foley | “How I Lost My Ear in Germany”

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

In 1994, Mick Foley lost his ear in a match against Big Van Vader. This is not for the faint of heart. And who said…

Why I Became a Wrestler: Roddy Piper, Jake Roberts, and More

Why I Became a Wrestler: Roddy Piper, Jake Roberts, and More

by Matt Pender  Feb 8, 2023

Roddy Piper, Blackjack Mulligan, and Jake Roberts share what inspired them to become professional wrestlers.

In 2002, Eddie Guerrero shattered CM Punk’s world with one brutal lesson. Read on to discover the moment that ignited a WWE legend.

Eddie Guerrero’s Final Gift to CM Punk Before Death

by Richard Thompson  Sep 3, 2025

In 2002, Eddie Guerrero shattered CM Punk’s world with one brutal lesson. Discover the moment that ignited a WWE legend.

In a WWE ring, eight years after Eric Bischoff fires Steve Austin from WCW. Monday Night Raw, November 3, 2003.

Eric Bischoff Firing Steve Austin – ‘Totally Disrespectful’

by JP Zarka  Feb 18, 2023

Was Eric Bischoff firing Steve Austin a decision he’d later regret? Austin and Bischoff open up about this turning point in the business.

When pro wrestling matches turn real, as Vader, The Public Enemy, and Ken Shamrock experienced, the results can be truly shocking!

10 Pro Wrestling Matches That Turned Into Real Fights!

by Kelvin Vega  Aug 27, 2024

When pro wrestling matches turn real, the results can be shocking. Discover 10 moments when scripted fights became genuine brawls!

Evan Lewis was the first ‘Strangler’ of American wrestling and the most feared wrestler of the 19th century.

Evan Lewis: The 19th Century’s Most Feared Wrestler

by Ruslan C. Pashayev  Jan 6, 2025

Discover Evan Lewis, the first “Strangler” and the 1800s’ most feared wrestler, whose rough-house style left a lasting, complicated legacy.

Eddie Guerrero didn’t plan to create the LWO (Latino World Order) in WCW. It emerged from crisis, was born in controversy, and became something far bigger than anyone anticipated – a movement WWE would eventually have to revive.

LWO Rise in WCW That Forced WWE’s Hand Decades Later

by Nati Feliciano  Oct 22, 2025

The story of what Eddie Guerrero built in WCW, what nearly destroyed the LWO, and why WWE and the wrestling world couldn’t keep it dead.

Rhyno, Billy Gunn, James Storm, and the Legendary Police Rib

Rhyno, Billy Gunn, James Storm, and the Legendary Police Rib

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

There were bullets in the back of the car, the registration paperwork was nowhere to be found, and Rhyno was moments from arrest.

"The Crown Jewel of Pro Wrestling" Jimmy Rave gave his everything to the business.

Jimmy Rave – Surrendering His Mind and Body to Wrestling

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

Former TNA and Ring of Honor star Jimmy Rave surrendered his mind, limbs, and, unfortunately, his life to the business.

If the name Meng or Haku doesn't ring a bell, perhaps you know him better by the name of Tonga Fifita, Prince Tonga, King Tonga, or King Haku. He is the most terrifying man ever to step foot inside a squared circle.

Meng: 15 Tales on Wrestling’s Toughest S.O.B.

by Matt Pender  Feb 7, 2023

He has gone by the names of Meng, Haku, Tonga Fifita, and more. He is the most terrifying man ever to step foot inside a…

Chris Jericho: no stranger to the drink!

Chris Jericho – How to Drink Like a Wrestler (and Other Bar Tricks)

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jul 7, 2022

Chris Jericho, well known for his drinking prowess, certainly has some interesting drinking stories to share! 

An alternate timeline: What if Bad News Brown won the 1989 Royal Rumble?

1989 Royal Rumble: What If Big John Studd Didn’t Win?

by Soul Tsukino  Feb 27, 2023

Big John Studd won the 1989 Royal Rumble. Through speculative fiction, we propose an entertaining alternate timeline in WWE history!

Marty Jannetty: no stranger to controversy.

Marty Jannetty: His Secret, Turbulent Life After The Rockers

by Si Powell  Aug 9, 2023

No stranger to controversy, Marty Jannetty has lived a secret life that’s led him down dark paths and hidden turmoil since his days in WWE.

On March 10th, 2003, The Hurricane made history by defeating The Rock!

The Rock and The Hurricane Create the Unexpected in 2003

by Tim Buckler  Mar 10, 2023

The story of The Rock and The Hurricane doing battle on Monday Night Raw, and how they created one of the best WWE moments in…

Wrestler Ben Justice.

Ben Justice: A Wrestling Legacy Remembered

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 31, 2024

Ben Justice had a devoted following of fans in pro wrestling during the 1960s and 1970s. Learn about his career and life!

Discover how a 4 AM promo transformed a struggling Steve Austin into a wrestling icon, marking the rise of ‘Stone Cold’ in ECW.

Steve Austin: The 4 AM Promo That Changed It All

by JP Zarka  Oct 24, 2024

Discover how a 4 AM promo transformed a struggling Steve Austin into a wrestling icon, marking the rise of ‘Stone Cold’ in ECW.

On January 18, 1971, Ivan Koloff shocked the world by pinning Bruno Sammartino at Madison Square Garden, ending his historic 2,803-day reign as WWWF Champion. Yet for 54 years, WWE failed to honor “The Russian Bear” with a proper Hall of Fame induction—until quietly placing him in the Legacy Wing in 2025, eight years after his death. We ask: Too little, too late?

Ivan Koloff’s WWE Hall of Fame Shame: Too Little, Too Late?

by Evan Ginzburg  Apr 17, 2025

Ivan Koloff finally joins WWE Hall of Fame after years of snubs. Did the man who ended Bruno’s reign deserve better than the Legacy Wing?

Dustin Rhodes is proving to the world (and himself) that he's still got it.

Dustin Rhodes – Proving to the World (and Himself) That He’s Still Got It

by JP Zarka  Jul 7, 2022

At age 50, Dustin Rhodes pulled off the greatest match of his career. Along the way, he rediscovered his love of wrestling.

Ric Flair - The Nature Boy's Wild Night Out in the '70s

Ric Flair – The Nature Boy’s Wild Night Out in the ’70s

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

Debauchery, cross-dressing, and of course, women. This following story encapsulates territory era Ric Flair!

From his early days as Lord Humongous to his rise as Sid Justice, Sid Vicious, and as a 2x WWE World Heavyweight Champion as Sycho Sid, we reflect on the secret life of professional wrestling's Sid Eudy.

Sid Eudy (aka Sid Vicious & Sycho Sid): His Secret Story

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 27, 2024

Discover the secret story of 2x WWE Champion Sid Eudy (AKA Sid Vicious and Sycho Sid) from his life, career, and untimely death.

Whatever you do, don't drink Booker T's Red Bulls!

Booker T and Red Bull: A Tale of Locker Room Etiquette

by Alex  Feb 16, 2023

The phrase “Booker T and Red Bull” takes us to a time when two WWE wrestlers were learning the system through trial, and in this…

The original, calculated betrayal by Vince McMahon: How he and The Fabulous Moolah conspired to double-cross Wendi Richter in 1985.

Vince McMahon’s First Screwjob: Wendi Richter’s Fall

by JP Zarka  Oct 2, 2024

Before the Montreal Screwjob, Vince McMahon orchestrated a 1985 betrayal of Wendi Richter by The Fabulous Moolah, which changed WWE history.

Mark Madden - His Controversial Career in Pro Wrestling

Mark Madden – His Controversial Career in Pro Wrestling

by Stosh Jonjak  Jan 10, 2023

Provoking feuds is an art form Mark Madden turned into a job in pro wrestling. It was that same ability that would ultimately doom his…

Wrestling’s Global Village: From Korea to the UK and Everywhere Between

by Evan Ginzburg  Nov 7, 2019

The wrestling world and the world itself is ‘one big town’ and global village. That was never clearer to me than last week.

WCW Monday Nitro | Behind the Curtain on Its Final Show

WCW Monday Nitro: Secret Story of Its Final Show

by Matt Pender  Jul 3, 2023

From the inner workings of the WCW buyout to what it felt like behind the curtain on that final Monday Nitro, those who were there…

A view of the Kiel Auditorium in 1949 shows the crowds that St. Louis pro wrestling could attract at the height of its popularity – before three dark nights nearly destroyed everything promoter Sam Muchnick built.

3 Dark Nights That Nearly Destroyed St. Louis Wrestling

by Rick Fields  Jun 25, 2025

St. Louis Wrestling, under Sam Muchnick, set the gold standard, with credible, fair bouts, until three dark moments nearly broke it all down.

Wayne St. Wayne had the opportunity to meet many great legends during his life. Bruno Sammartino, Killer Kowalski, Jake Roberts, and Ox Baker were but a few.

Wrestling Autograph Encounters in the Late ’60s and ’70s

by Evan Ginzburg  Sep 28, 2020

Renaissance man Wayne St. Wayne had many wrestling autograph encounters, even procuring scribbles from the hottest heels during a protected bygone era.

The Miz, seen here on the left on MTV Real World in 2001, and on the right as WWE Champion in 2021, has carved out a place for himself in both worlds, solidifying the fluid connection between reality TV and wrestling.

Reality TV, Wrestling, and How They’re Closer Than You Think

by Christa Pagliei  Jun 25, 2021

There is much more in common between reality TV and wrestling than people realize. Kayfabe is dead, but reality TV was born at its funeral.

Lita (Amy Dumas) over the years.

Lita: From Champion to Survivor, Her Untold Journey

by Alexa Pruett  Jun 29, 2023

She could have easily been another wrestling casualty. Discover the surprising untold story of Amy Dumas, the woman behind WWE’s Lita!

TERRY TAYLOR Shares His Thoughts on Today’s Wrestling Audience

by Matt Pender  Feb 7, 2022

Terry Taylor weighs in on fans knowing the in’s and out’s of what was happening behind the curtain and how it’s affected the format of…

Woooooo! Becoming Ric Flair documentary on Peacock chronicles one of the most charismatic celebrities ever to walk this Earth. And from the orphanage to superstardom to a near-death ordeal, Flair's experienced it all. But how does this documentary fare in the telling of his prolific and controversial story?

Woooooo! Becoming Ric Flair Documentary: An Honest Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Apr 17, 2023

How does the Woooooo! Becoming Ric Flair documentary on Peacock fare in the telling of Flair’s prolific and controversial story?

The story of wrestler Mark Tendler is a dark and deadly one.

Mark Tendler: Murder at the Crazy Clown

by PW Wade  Sep 6, 2023

Memories of old-school wrestling often come with a warm, nostalgic glow. But the tale of Mark Tendler has a dark and deadly finale.

Perry Saturn and Mike Bell moments before things turned ugly.

Perry Saturn and Mike Bell – When Things Turned Ugly!

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

During a 2001 taping of WWF Metal, Perry Saturn made a questionable decision with wrestler Mike Bell that changed his career for the worse.

Mr. Kennedy after winning the WWE Money in the Bank Ladder Match at WrestleMania 23.

Unfortunate Fate of Mr. Kennedy’s Notorious MITB Win

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 27, 2025

The sky was the limit for Mr. Kennedy after winning the Money in the Bank (MITB) match. What followed was a rollercoaster of highs and…

The Road Warriors (Michael “Hawk” Hegstrand and Joe “Animal” Laurinaitis) make their television debut at TBS Studios on Techwood Drive on June 11th, 1983.

Surprising Story Behind TV Debut of The Road Warriors

by Ron Matejko  May 23, 2025

“Back then, guys like us were aware of each other!” Here is the story of the formation and landmark television debut of The Road Warriors.

From Iron Mike Discord during his debut in 1972 to becoming one of the top stars in the business during the ’70s and ’80s as the "Universal Heartthrob" Austin Idol.

Austin Idol: From McCord To Discord

by Benny J. Scala  Mar 7, 2023

Austin Idol underwent many changes and was in demand, often calling his own shots. But what if he had taken Vince McMahon Sr.’s advice?

A very dear, close, personal, long-time friend to us all: Mean Gene Okerlund over the years.

Mean Gene Okerlund: Secret History on the Man Behind the Mic

by JP Zarka  Jan 26, 2023

From being a singer in a hit band to becoming the voice of a generation of wrestling fans, Mean Gene Okerlund lived quite a surprising…

Kirk White was a Nor-Cal wrestling promoter and longtime manager of Bret Hart.

Kirk White – Remembering Wrestling Promoter, Bret Hart Manager

by Dr. Mike Lano  Jun 27, 2022

Kirk White was a wrestling promoter and the longtime manager of Bret Hart. I remember my friend, someone I had known since he was just…

Among het memorable WWE Money in the Bank cash-ins have been moments best forgotten! Discover its surprising history.

Uncovering The Secret of WWE’s Money in the Bank

by Christopher King  Apr 12, 2023

Among het memorable WWE Money in the Bank cash-ins have been moments best forgotten! Discover its surprising history.

Matt Cappotelli and Bob Holly had a controversial Tough Enough season 3 training match that many felt crossed a line and later sparked debate among trainers Al Snow and Bill DeMott.

Matt Cappotelli and Bob Holly: The Tough Enough Incident

by Braeden Farrell  Nov 18, 2025

Matt Cappotelli: Tough Enough winner, controversy, and resilience. From the controversial Bob Holly incident to cancer diagnosis and legacy.

The Gang Wars were in full swing in the WWF by the end of 1997 (pictured: DOA, Nation of Domination, Los Baricuas, and The Truth Commission).

Gang Wars: How Factions Changed Wrestling in 1997

by Elliott Jarvis  Feb 15, 2023

The Gang Wars storyline in the then-WWF brought real-life segregation and stereotypes to the forefront on television back in 1997 and 1998.

Stone Cold Steve Austin gets run over by a car during 1999's Survivor Series broadcast. Eleven months later, Rikishi would claim: "I did it for The Rock!"

Steve Austin and Rikishi: ‘I Did It For The Rock!’

by Joseph Finnegan  Feb 3, 2023

Steve Austin was hit by a car at WWE Survivor Series 1999. The way Rikishi delivered his confession almost eleven months later lives on!

1989 was a special year that saw Ric Flair and Ricky Steamboat have a trilogy of matches for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. Together, they created what has been lauded as the greatest series of matches of all time. This is the story behind the magic.

Ric Flair and Ricky Steamboat – The Story Behind The Magic

by JP Zarka  May 31, 2022

1989 saw Ric Flair and Ricky Steamboat put on a trilogy of matches for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. This is the story behind the…

Ric Flair and Bret Hart – A War of Words!

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

Ric Flair and Bret Hart once weren’t the biggest fans of one another. Not by a long shot! Here, each explains why the other is…

One of the most iconic moves in wrestling is the Powerbomb. Discover the history and secrets behind one of wrestling's most powerful statements of a maneuver, ten notable wrestlers who used it, and how a legendary wrestler's misstep led to the creation of this legendary move!

Powerbomb! Secret History on a Devastating Wrestling Move

by Ethan Absler  Feb 9, 2023

Discover the history and secrets behind one of wrestling’s most powerful statements of a maneuver: The Powerbomb!

Bret Hart and Bob Backlund | Their Feud and Hart's Most Hated Match

Bret Hart and Bob Backlund | Their Feud and Hart’s Most Hated Match

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

Bret Hart refers to this match with Bob Backlund as his worst of all time. Here’s what these 2 legends have to say about their…

Karma came around to bite Marty Jannetty once in the form of Scott Hall!

Scott Hall Takes a Sleeping Marty Jannetty By Surprise

by Matt Pender  Feb 16, 2023

Scott Hall tells the story of the time he had no choice but to deliver a bit of rough justice to Marty Jannetty after being…

The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels square off at Wrestlemania 25 in what many consider the greatest match of all time.

Shawn Michaels and Undertaker: Secret History Behind Feud

by Joseph Finnegan  Feb 8, 2023

Shawn Michaels and Undertaker at WrestleMania 25 is widely regarded as one of the greatest matches in wrestling history. For good reason.

The Great Kabuki with manager Gary Hart: one of wrestling's most legendary pairings.

The Great Kabuki and Gary Hart: A Timeless Partnership

by Jim Phillips  Jul 12, 2025

The Great Kabuki and Gary Hart were unstoppable when united in their reign of terror.. until their union ended (in a haze of green mist)!

Here are seven times wrestlers proved how real things could be in front of a live viewing audience!

7 Times Wrestlers Lost Control on a Talk Show

by Griffin Kaye  Feb 10, 2023

Here are seven times wrestlers legit got physical on talk shows, proving just how real wrestling is in front of a live viewing audience!

Terry Taylor, a magnificent territory wrestler, with a truckload of gold to prove it, was de-feathered in the prime of his career, saddled with a gimmick no one could have overcome: the Red Rooster.

Terry Taylor and the Failed Red Rooster Gimmick

by Benny J. Scala  Aug 1, 2023

Terry Taylor, a magnificent territory wrestler, was de-feathered in the prime of his career, saddled as the Red Rooster.

A decades-old WWE mystery persists: fans and historians debate the truth behind Mario Milano’s most controversial chapter.

Mario Milano: The WWE Myth That Refuses to Die

by Benny J. Scala  Jun 30, 2025

A decades-old WWE mystery persists: fans and historians debate the truth behind Mario Milano’s most controversial chapter.

Terry Allen, who was better known to fans as Magnum T.A., had a promising future in professional wrestling that was tragically cut short.

Magnum T.A. Tragedy: Secret Tale of Wrestling’s Greatest ‘What If’

by Matthew Redepenning  Jan 15, 2024

Dive into the gripping, secret story of Magnum T.A. (Terry Allen), a professional wrestler whose promising career was cut short by tragedy.

Wrestling heels Pampero Firpo and The Great Goliath with their daughters.

Growing Up The Daughter of a Wrestling Heel

by Javier Ojst  May 9, 2023

These wrestling heels caused mayhem in the wrestling territories, creating a unique family dynamic at home — especially for their daughters.

The incomparable Jim Johnston.

Jim Johnston – The Man Behind Legendary WWE Theme Songs

by Christopher King  Feb 3, 2022

A candid look at the 32-plus-year career of Jim Johnston, his creative process, and what led to his disappointing departure from WWE in 2017.

THE MIZ and DANIEL BRYAN: Too Good To Ignore

by Joseph Finnegan  Jul 7, 2022

The Miz and Daniel Bryan’s explosive segment of Talking Smack on August 23rd, 2016 led to the greatest promo of Miz’s career.

On October 26th, 1996, ECW crossed a line. An angle involving The Sandman was so distasteful that it silenced the usually wild ECW crowd.

Sandman Incident: Controversial Time ECW Went Too Far

by Javier Ojst  Aug 15, 2024

On October 26th, 1996, ECW crossed a line. An angle involving The Sandman was so distasteful, it silenced the usually wild ECW crowd.

"The Renegade" Richard Wilson.

The Renegade: The Tragic Tale of Wrestling’s Richard Wilson

by Si Powell  Apr 14, 2025

The Renegade Richard Wilson had a meteoric rise, an equally quick fall, and, ultimately, a tragic ending to his young life.

The Father of Puroresu: Rikidozan.

The Tragic Killing of Rikidozan: The Father of Puroresu

by Javier Ojst  Feb 13, 2023

Despite the fame and glory wrestler Rikidozan achieved, his vanity and underworld connections would lead to a tragic conclusion.

Not every fairy tale is as it seems. This is the true story of the first couple of professional wrestling, Macho Man Randy Savage and Miss Elizabeth.

Randy Savage and Miss Elizabeth: Their Tragic True Story

by Matt Pender  Mar 8, 2023

Not every fairy tale is as it seems. This is the true story of the first couple of wrestling, ‘Macho Man’ Randy Savage and Miss…

Savio Vega sounds off against Kevin Nash’s claim that an airplane prank was the reason Vega was let go from WWF back in the ’90s.

Savio Vega – How The Kliq Tried to Get Him Fired from the WWF

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

Savio Vega was targeted by The Kliq due to a rib gone too far. He details what happened and why Yokozuna had to step in…

Jim Cornette shares the story of the time he threatened Brock Lesnar during their OVW days.

When Brock Lesnar Pushed Jim Cornette to His Breaking Point

by Braeden Farrell  Sep 10, 2024

Tensions escalated when Brock Lesnar, during his time at OVW, squeezed Jim Cornette’s wife, Synn, despite her asking him not to.

Dino Bravo, before hard times.

Dino Bravo: His Tragic Unsolved Murder by the Mob

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

Chilling details on how Dino Bravo went from pro wrestling to getting involved with the mob and ultimately losing his life for it.

“To be honest, I took offense to what Randy Savage was proposing!”

Randy Savage and his Unorthodox Approach to Calling a Match

by JP Zarka  Nov 12, 2024

Randy Savage worked differently than many during his time in wrestling. This was often met with criticism from his peers.

Sandra Gray: the genius costume designer behind pro wrestling's greatest stars. Discover her secret, untold story.

Sandra Gray: Wrestling’s Unsung Game-Changer

by Tim Buckler  Oct 12, 2023

Discover the secret, untold story of Sandra Gray, the genius costume designer behind pro wrestling’s greatest stars!

5 Wrestling Families and Their Brave Tales of Tragedy

by Marc Madison  Jan 10, 2023

From the Anoa’is, Harts, Von Erichs, and beyond, here are wrestling families who have had their share of tragedy over the years.

WrestleMania 24 Malfunction That Injured Dozens of WWE Fans

WrestleMania 24 Malfunction That Injured Dozens of WWE Fans

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 1, 2021

What should’ve been a feeling of jubilation with enjoying WrestleMania 24 firsthand, ended with sadness, anger and confusion.

Discover 13 wrestlers who mastered visual drama, crafting some of pro wrestling’s most haunting and graphic moments.

13 Pro Wrestling Legends Who Mastered Visual Drama

by Dale Pierce  Nov 18, 2025

Discover 13 wrestlers who mastered visual drama, crafting some of pro wrestling’s most haunting and graphic moments.

The following 21 WWE Hall of Famers, from Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts to George ‘The Animal’ Steele and ‘Mr. Wonderful’ Paul Orndorff, never held a championship belt but left an indelible mark on wrestling history. Their legacies prove that greatness isn’t always measured in gold!

21 Hall of Famers WWE Never Crowned Champions

by Rahul Amare  Nov 4, 2024

21 WWE Hall of Famers who never held championship gold, but their legacies shine just as bright—proving greatness needs no title!

WWE Concussion Lawsuit | Lanny Poffo Shoots on Some Involved

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

Lanny Poffo recently gave his thoughts on particular people who tried to cash in on Vince McMahon via the now-thrown-out WWE concussion lawsuit.

In professional wrestling, promos are often just as vital as the in-ring action. From fiery rants born out of real-life frustrations to emotional confessions, in these ten unforgettable wrestling promos with their own secret backstory, the boundary between persona and reality led to some truly iconic moments!

Hidden Secret Behind 10 Unforgettable Wrestling Promos!

by Aaron Young  Jan 11, 2024

From Steve Austin to Roman Reigns, explore 10 unforgettable wrestling promos and the hidden secret story behind them!

A lot has changed since the days of old school wrestling, though not always for the better. Here are ten things that are very much missed!

Old School Wrestling: 10 Things Sorely Missed!

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 24, 2022

A lot has changed since the days of old school wrestling, though not always for the better. Here are ten things that are very much…

The infamous catchphrase "You can't see me!" by John Cena has been given the meme treatment over the years. Here is the backstory behind this catchy yet bizarre catchphrase.

John Cena – “You Can’t See Me!” | The Taunt’s Surprising Origin

by Braeden Farrell  Sep 13, 2021

“You can’t see me!” How an inside joke led to the creation of one of wrestling’s most infamous catchphrases for John Cena.

Roddy Piper on the Very Beginnings of Professional Wrestling

Roddy Piper on the Very Beginnings of Professional Wrestling

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Dec 3, 2020

Roddy Piper painted a beautiful picture in response to the question: When did wrestling begin? His quote was just too good not to share!

Pro Wrestling Stories had the privilege of interviewing director David Ayer (Training Day, Suicide Squad) and stunt coordinator Eddie Fernandez (The Batman, Hobbs & Shaw) to discuss Jason Statham’s portrayal of Levon Cade in A Working Man. Discover how pro wrestling’s storytelling DNA inspired this #1 box office hit, blending brutal action with compelling drama.

Statham’s A Working Man: How Wrestling Tactics Beat Snow White

by Evan Ginzburg  Apr 3, 2025

Jason Statham’s A Working Man topped Disney’s Snow White at #1. Discover how wrestling-inspired storytelling fueled its box office success.

Corey Matthews (Ben Savage) finds himself in a formidable staredown with Big Van Vader on the popular family sitcom Boy Meets World in 1996.

Boy Meets World vs. Vader: Secret Story Behind ’90s Collision

by Joseph Finnegan  Feb 16, 2023

Relive the unforgettable moment when pro wrestling legend Vader collided with Boy Meets World. It was an epic clash we won’t soon forget!

Mitsuharu Misawa.

Mitsuharu Misawa – A Wrestling Legend Taken Too Soon

by Javier Ojst  Feb 24, 2023

Mitsuharu Misawa was only 46-years-old when he died in the ring doing what he loved. And on that evening, we lost one of wrestling’s finest.

Curtain Call: Jim Cornette on The Kliq’s Disrespect for Vince McMahon

by JP Zarka  May 12, 2024

This curtain call forever changed the face of wrestling. “It was the day four friends irreversibly disrespected Vince McMahon!”

Steve Austin reflects on his baby oil mishap at the 1996 Royal Rumble.

Steve Austin – Baby Oil Mishap at 1996 Royal Rumble

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

Things did not fare well for Steve Austin at the 1996 Royal Rumble. It was his second-ever appearance in the WWE!

Photographer Recalls the Tragic Night Owen Hart Died

by JP Zarka  Jan 23, 2023

Photographer Tom Buchanan was 20 feet away on the night Owen Hart died. The events that followed forever remain etched in Buchanan’s memory.

The Shaker Heights Spike, the Beverly Brothers’ infamous finisher, became notorious for its dangerous execution and career-ending consequences, particularly for enhancement talent. It ultimately ended the career of one unfortunate wrestler.

Shaker Heights Spike: A Finisher That Damaged Lives

by JP Zarka  Nov 27, 2024

The Beverly Brothers’ Shaker Heights Spike is notorious for its dangerous execution and career-ending effects, particularly for one wrestler.

From cult classics to campy thrills, discover 10 scary movies where wrestlers take the spotlight—one even called “the worst film ever made!”

10 Scary Movies Where Wrestlers Took the Spotlight

by Tim Buckler  Oct 29, 2024

From cult classics to campy thrills, discover 10 scary movies where wrestlers take the spotlight—one even called “the worst film ever made!”

The Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF) wrestling territory thrived with stars such as Jack and Jerry Brisco,

Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF): Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Apr 22, 2023

Championship Wrestling from Florida saw wrestling’s finest travel through its doors. However, it is its tragic demise that leaves its mark.

Whether you're a wrestling fan or new to his story, we analyze insights from the Andre the Giant HBO documentary that wasn't known–until now!

12 Untold Stories About Andre the Giant from HBO Documentary

by Braeden Farrell  Sep 24, 2024

Whether you’re a wrestling fan or new to his story, we analyze insights from the Andre the Giant HBO documentary that wasn’t known ’til now!

After a harsh exit from WWE, Rhyno opens up about how he made 2005 his year.

Rhyno Opens Up About Harsh WWE Departure in 2005

by Alex  Feb 2, 2023

2005 was a strange year for Rhyno. After a harsh release from WWE after this backstage incident, he found a way to make ’05 his…

It's hard to believe that the original ECW ended over twenty years ago. On top of many great memories, ECW lives on through Taz's FTW Championship, which is still defended in AEW today. The secret behind this storied "outlaw" title may surprise many, as it has an unexpected story to tell!

FTW Championship: Surprising History of an Outlaw Title

by Aarij Arifeen  May 15, 2023

ECW lives on through the FTW Championship. A storied, surprising history surrounds the “outlaw” that is still defended in AEW today!

From Daredevil to Gene Simmons, The Flash to The Terminator, here is a look back at many nods Rey Mysterio has made to pop culture icons over the years!

Rey Mysterio Tributes You May Not Have Noticed!

by Tim Buckler  Jan 6, 2023

Rey Mysterio has made nods to many pop culture icons throughout the years. Here are 14 examples you may not have noticed!

The man, the myth, the legend: Rowdy Roddy Piper.

Rowdy Roddy Piper: A Wild Maverick Who Died Too Soon

by Geries Tadros  Jan 10, 2023

Wrestler Rowdy Roddy Piper—a maverick known for his outrageous behavior—died too soon. We take a look back at Piper’s life and career.

Lanny Poffo over the years. The last image on the right was taken just one day before he sadly passed away. We honor and remember our friend, a man known to wrestling fans as "Leaping Lanny" and "The Genius." [Photo composite by JP Zarka/Pro Wrestling Stories]

Lanny Poffo: Remembering a Genius Friend

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 6, 2023

With a heavy heart, we say goodbye to our beloved friend, Lanny Poffo, known to wrestling fans as “The Genius” and “Leaping Lanny.”

Batman | 7 Times The Dark Knight Influenced Professional Wrestling

Batman | 7 Times The Dark Knight Influenced Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  Aug 11, 2021

There have been many nods to Batman from inside the squared circle. Some are subtle, some are not, while some are just straight-up rip-offs!

Many pro wrestling matches have occurred in arenas, Elks Lodges, VFWs, and even bingo halls. But it takes a mad genius to think outside the box to take wrestling to these locations!

Wrestling’s Most Shocking and Unusual Match Locations

by Ethan Absler  Jan 12, 2023

Many pro wrestling matches have occurred in unique places. But it takes a mad genius to think to take wrestling to THESE locations!

In this unheard until now Pro Wrestling Stories interview, Matt Striker opens up about teaching, life in wrestling, tragedy, and more.

Matt Striker – Life in the Classroom, Squared Circle, and Beyond

by Javier Ojst  Sep 30, 2024

From his unceremonious WWE departure, to achieving his dream as a commentator, and more, this unheard Matt Striker interview is not to miss!

Janet Boyer Wolfe.

Janet Boyer Wolfe – A Promising Career Tragically Cut Short

by Javier Ojst  Sep 1, 2025

On July 28th, 1951, tragedy struck when 18-year-old Janet Boyer Wolfe suddenly collapsed during only her third professional wrestling match.

Samoa Joe and Kevin Nash's heated backstage altercation became a memorable moment in TNA's history, revealing the raw emotions that existed behind the scenes.

Samoa Joe, Kevin Nash, and their Fight Over Scott Hall

by Braeden Farrell  Nov 6, 2024

At TNA’s Turning Point 2007, Samoa Joe’s bold promo targeting Scott Hall triggered an explosive confrontation with Kevin Nash backstage.

Ribbing, numerous clashes with the law, and Steiner Math, too, this is the shocking, controversial story of Scott Steiner!

Scott Steiner: The Secret History of Big Poppa Pump

by Si Powell  Jan 30, 2023

Ribbing, numerous clashes with the law, and Steiner Math, too, this is the shocking, controversial story of Scott Steiner!

RVD drops to his knees in celebration in the ring as Paul Heyman hands him the WWE Championship after beating John Cena at ECW One Night Stand in 2006.

RVD vs John Cena: The Night ECW Defied The Impossible

by Joseph Finnegan  Nov 21, 2025

Relive RVD vs John Cena at ECW One Night Stand 2006, where a hostile Hammerstein crowd, ECW pride, and an unthinkable WWE title change rewrote…

Mean Gene Okerlund stands beside the mysterious giant egg at Survivor Series 1990 as the Hartford Civic Center as the crowd buzzes over WWE’s bold Thanksgiving gamble that would hatch the Gobbledy Gooker.

Gobbledy Gooker: WWE’s Thanksgiving Gamble

by JP Zarka  Nov 27, 2025

Discover the wild story of Survivor Series 1990: The Undertaker’s debut and WWE’s shocking Thanksgiving gamble, the Gobbledy Gooker!

Uncover 15 untold stories behind Bret Hart and Stone Cold Steve Austin’s legendary rivalry, from their technical masterpiece at Survivor Series 1996 in Madison Square Garden (foreground) to the iconic WrestleMania 13 double-turn at Rosemont Horizon (background), immortalized with its induction into WWE’s Hall of Fame.

Bret Hart vs Stone Cold: 15 Untold Stories of Their HOF Feud

by JP Zarka  Apr 22, 2025

Uncover 15 untold stories behind Bret Hart vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin’s legendary rivalry and its historic WWE Hall of Fame induction.

Eddie Sharkey - The trainer of professional wrestling champions. [design: JP Zarka / ProWrestlingStories.com]

Eddie Sharkey – The Trainer of Wrestling Champions

by Javier Ojst  Nov 27, 2024

From training legendary professional wrestlers to gouging out eyes alongside Harley Race, Eddie Sharkey is the last of a dying breed!

Jos LeDuc was one of the nicest guys in the dressing room. But when he got in front of the camera, there was no telling what the Canadian lumberjack would do.

“Who Is Wrestling’s Greatest-Ever Monster Heel?” | Ask PWS

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 12, 2023

We were recently asked, “Who is wrestling’s greatest monster heel wrestler of all time?” This got us thinking about the territory days…

The British Bulldogs - Wrestling's Cruelest Locker Room 'Bullies'

The British Bulldogs: Their Notorious Behavior Behind-the-Scenes

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

The British Bulldogs were known for their hijinks in and out of the ring, but some of these stories are just plain cruel.

Ric Flair blasts wrestling "smarks."

Ric Flair on Wrestling Fans Who Use Wrestling Terminology

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 26, 2022

Ric Flair shared some strong words against the original author of his first book and internet fans for talking like they are on the inside.

Rick Rude had a ravishing career that spanned from his early days as Rick Rood in World Championship Wrestling (circa 1983, left) to his iconic run in the WWF, where he famously wore Jake 'The Snake' Roberts' wife’s face on his wrestling trunks to his final television appearance on the April 5th, 1999 edition of WCW Monday Nitro Backstage Blast, just fifteen days before his tragic death (right).

Rick Rude: A Ravishing Wrestler with a Tragic End

by Si Powell  Oct 28, 2024

Ravishing Rick Rude was one of wrestling’s most charismatic heels, but his life ended in tragedy. Learn about the man and his untimely death.

Samoa Joe vs. Kurt Angle in an MMA-style match at Lockdown 2008.

Kurt Angle and Samoa Joe: Untold Secret Behind TNA MMA Match

by Ian Aldous  Jan 18, 2024

Kurt Angle and Samoa Joe had a fierce rivalry during their time in TNA. Discover the secret story behind their unique M

Haystacks Calhoun: His Incredible Life and Tragic End

by JP Zarka  Nov 18, 2024

A 600-pound farm boy, Haystacks Calhoun became a wrestling icon known for his strength, charm, and enduring legacy–with a tragic end.

From the first televised table spot in the 1960s, to Ric Flair vs Terry Funk at Clash of the Champions IX in 1989, to Edge spearing Mick Foley through a flaming table at WrestleMania 22 in 2006, read on to discover 15 of the most destructive and memorable table spots in history!

15 Legendary Wrestling Table Spots Fans Still Talk About

by Tim Buckler  Nov 6, 2025

Wrestling table spots, from the territories to modern arenas. Discover 15 of the most destructive and memorable table spots in history!

Kana’s (WWE’s Asuka) Manifesto That Changed Everything

Kana’s (WWE’s Asuka) Manifesto That Changed Everything

by Rutvik Keche  Jul 3, 2025

Kana (WWE’s Asuka) dropped a 2010 manifesto that ripped apart Japanese women’s wrestling and changed her career forever.

"The Lethal Weapon" Steve Blackman.

7 Steve Blackman Tales That Verify Lethal Weapon Status

by JP Zarka  Jul 21, 2025

Steve Blackman airport brawls, Big Show beatdowns & survival stories that verify why “The Lethal Weapon” terrified WWE’s toughest stars!

The many faces of James Fullington, The Sandman.

The Sandman | James Fullington, Forever Living Dangerously

by Stosh Jonjak  Jan 10, 2023

Is he a career criminal? The village idiot? A drunken psychopath? Perhaps all 3. Put together, he’s the most decorated wrestler from ECW. He is…

Wrestling’s Generation Gap- Ric Flair vs. Ricochet: Then vs. Now

by Evan Ginzburg  May 26, 2022

Will old school fans ever respect a Ricochet, and would today’s fans truly appreciate a ring general like Ric Flair or Jack Brisco?

Many have asked my opinions regarding the A&E Biography episode on my brother, “Macho Man” Randy Savage. I understand reception to the episode has been primarily negative. Having now viewed the show twice, I have some thoughts I would like to share.

A&E Biography of Randy Savage – Lanny Poffo Responds

by Lanny Poffo  Jan 10, 2023

Lanny Poffo: “Having now viewed the A&E Biography on my brother Macho Man Randy Savage, I have some thoughts I’d like to share.”

DDP - How Diamond Dallas Page Went Against All Odds

DDP – How Diamond Dallas Page Went Against All Odds

by Ian Aldous  Aug 30, 2022

Little was expected of DDP when he started wrestling at 35, yet he’d soon become a superstar. However, one dream feud would forever elude him.

With barely 12 minutes gone in their Survivor Series 1997 match, Bret Hart found himself caught in his own finishing hold -- and then in the most talked about wrestling conspiracy of the 20th century.

The Twisted Legacy of WWE’s Montreal Screwjob

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 25, 2023

Behind closed doors, the Montreal Screwjob was much more than getting the title away from Bret Hart before his departure to WCW.

Chief Don Eagle was a Native American wrestling pioneer of immense talent. New eyewitness testimony exposes chilling details from the room where wrestling legend Don Eagle met his untimely end.

Chief Don Eagle: Haunting Secrets of Wrestler’s Mysterious Death

by Bill McCormack  Sep 2, 2025

Chief Don Eagle was a native American wrestling pioneer, remembered for screwjob finishes and an unsolved death that still begs answers.

Discover 5 horrific ECW injuries that changed careers: broken necks, severed ears, and the fire that nearly killed Terry Funk.

5 Lesser-Known ECW Injuries That Nearly Killed Wrestlers

by Griffin Kaye  Feb 27, 2025

Discover 5 horrific ECW injuries that changed careers: broken necks, severed ears, and the fire that nearly killed Terry Funk.

Behind the tables, steel chairs, and barbed wire, there was also undeniably strong character work in ECW. Here are ten performers who turned scraps to gold as they developed before our eyes on the chaotic yet exciting stage of ECW.

10 Wrestlers Who Turned Scraps to Gold in ECW

by Griffin Kaye  Apr 22, 2025

The following performers turned scraps to gold as they developed before our eyes on the chaotic yet exciting stage of ECW!

Adrian Adonis over the years.

Adrian Adonis: His Remarkable Career and Tragic End

by Jim Phillips  Mar 10, 2023

Adrian Adonis was audacious, arrogant, and truly one of the best. Sadly, he’d perish in a freak accident. This is his unforgettable story.

Wrestling Podcast Hits – The Very Best You Don’t Want To Miss

by Greg Phillips  Jan 3, 2024

Look no further for a great wrestling podcast! Here’s the best in squared circle audio, including some hidden gems and our readers’ favorites podcasts too.

Bobby Heenan | The Gold Standard in Wrestling

Bobby Heenan – The Gold Standard in Wrestling

by JP Zarka  Jul 7, 2022

We honor Bobby Heenan by sharing some memorable stories by the legend himself and by the people who knew him best.

The signature sign-off for Chris Hyatte.

Chris Hyatte – RIP to the Most Entertaining Man in the Room

by Bobby Mathews  Aug 5, 2020

Chris Hyatte died. This time it was for real. Maybe. He’d died maybe a hundred Internet deaths. Hyatte was a lightning rod for readers and…

Scott Hall, Kevin Nash, and Nasty Boys Fight in Front of Fans

Scott Hall, Kevin Nash, and Nasty Boys Fight in Front of Fans

by JP Zarka  Apr 19, 2025

The Nasty Boys have a long history of issues. This incident with Scott Hall and Kevin Nash that took place in front of fans was…

ECW Champion, Vince McMahon.

WWE ECW Relaunch: Where Did It All Go Wrong?

by Ian Aldous  May 22, 2023

It all started so well. ECW was brought back to life in WWE, though not as fans endearingly remembered it.

Recapturing the Magic of WWE’s WWWF Years

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 25, 2023

The World Wide Wrestling Federation was the golden age of professional wrestling. Experience the excitement and nostalgia of WWE’s WWWF era!

Uncle Sam’s favorite nephew: ‘Hacksaw’ Jim Duggan.

When Hacksaw Jim Duggan Broke the Hearts of Millions

by Mike Gentry  Apr 20, 2023

There was a time when Hacksaw Jim Duggan broke the heart of his fans. This is the tale of that strange and almost forgotten saga!

11 Strangest WCW Fantasy Gimmicks That Baffled Fans

by Jonathan Clark  Dec 6, 2023

Explore the wildest gimmicks of the WCW, from KISS Demon to The Yeti. Discover how WCW’s outlandish characters rivaled the WWF!

Bret Hart and Mr. Perfect | Revolutionists of Wrestling in the '90s [Photo design: JP Zarka of ProWrestlingStories.com]

Bret Hart and Mr. Perfect | Revolutionists of Wrestling in the ’90s

by JP Zarka  Jul 7, 2022

Bret Hart and Mr. Perfect speak of their mutual love and respect and how their careers would never have been the same without the other.

From making history at 26 to being banned from wrestling in multiple states. Discover the devastating truth behind Yokozuna’s first WWE Championship reign and his tragic final days.

Yokozuna: Tragic Truth Behind His WWE Reign and Final Days

by Si Powell  Dec 9, 2024

Discover Yokozuna’s historic 14-month reign as WWE’s then-WWF Heavyweight Champion, the challenges he faced, and the legacy he left behind.

Bob Backlund had some incredible matches before, during, and after his legendary WWWF Championship reign.

Witnessing History: Bob Backlund’s Best Live Bouts

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 27, 2023

Here are ten of the best Bob Backlund matches we saw live before, during, and after his 5-plus-year run as WWWF World Heavyweight Champion.

Darren Drozdov aka Droz in 1999 and 2014.

Droz and D’Lo Brown: How A Disastrous Moment Brought Strength

by Joseph Finnegan  Jul 1, 2023

Droz and D’Lo Brown open up about the botch that left Droz paralyzed and how forgiveness and strength brought them close in the aftermath.

Never-before-seen photo showing aftermath of 1997 WWE riot at Little Rock Barton Coliseum with chairs and debris scattered

WWE Riot 1997: Never-Before-Seen Photos Revealed

by Ryan Henslee  Dec 20, 2025

Exclusive photos and eyewitness accounts of the 1997 WWE Little Rock riot, when fans realized they weren’t at Raw, and chaos exploded.

When a worked wrestling match turns into a shoot (or real fight), anything can happen and usually does. We look back to 1977 when Antonio Inoki retired The Great Antonio from wrestling.

The Great Antonio and Antonio Inoki Match that Ended in Disaster

by Javier Ojst  May 3, 2023

When Antonio Inoki retired The Great Antonio from wrestling on December 9th, 1977, it almost cost the famed eccentric strongman his life.

From Zelina Vega to Victor Zangiev, here are the surprising times the Street Fighter franchise and professional wrestling influenced one another!

Hidden Link Between Street Fighter and Pro Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  Feb 27, 2023

You may be surprised at how much the Street Fighter video game franchise has influenced professional wrestling (and vice versa!)

With my hero, Bruno Sammartino. Little did I know this would be his last Christmas.

Bruno Sammartino’s Last Christmas: Untold Tales Shared

by Benny J. Scala  Dec 17, 2024

Bruno Sammartino was my hero since I was 13, and I spent his final-ever Christmas with him. Here is how I found myself in that…

WWE's The Kliq: Triple H, Kevin Nash, Shawn Michaels, Scott Hall, and Sean Waltman.

Times WWE’s THE KLIQ Fought Amongst Themselves

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 12, 2023

The Kliq crossed paths with many wrestling legends over the years, but it was these battles with each other that helped define their careers.

Maven Huffman’s transformation, from middle school teacher to WWE star after winning the first-ever Tough Enough on MTV to YouTube sensation in recent years, masks a darker journey marked by hidden struggles, devastating losses, and a path to redemption that tested everything.

Maven: WWE Tough Enough Made Him, But Life Tested Him

by Matt Roberts  Aug 6, 2025

From WWE Tough Enough winner to mystery disappearance, Maven Huffman’s hidden battles led to an unexpected digital resurrection.

Unfortunately, there are "fans" who can't help themselves at the shows. They get caught up in a moment and take it upon themselves to jump the barricade and skirt around security to ambush a wrestler. As ridiculous as it may seem, this has happened numerous times over the years. Dive into the insanity of these people and how wrestlers took care of them for doing so. 

4 Times a Fan Unexpectedly Ambushed a Wrestler

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

Here are 4 times ‘fans’ startlingly ambushed a wrestler. Dive into the insanity of these moments and how wrestlers took care of things after.

Reid Flair and His Impact on the Women’s Revolution in WWE

by Mason Epeneter  Jul 7, 2022

Reid Flair would’ve turned 30 back in February, and yet, not many people talk about his legacy and the impact he had on WWE’s Women’s…

The fight between Angelo Mosca and Joe Capp in 2011 was a result of a 48-year grudge!

Angelo Mosca and Joe Kapp Fight: Surprising Details

by Javier Ojst  Apr 28, 2025

In 2011, a 48-year grudge hit a boiling point at a Canadian Football League luncheon between wrestler Angelo Mosca and quarterback Joe Kapp!

CM Punk WWE Backstage Debut - Here's What He Had to Say! [Photo: Wrestling Daze on YouTube]

CM Punk WWE Backstage Debut – Here’s What He Had to Say!

by JP Zarka  Nov 20, 2019

CM Punk is never one to censor his thoughts! Here’s what he had to say about WWE creative, Seth Rollins, a potential return to the…

“Dirty” Dick Slater and Sting - The two wrestlers had an infamous backstage encounter that left Sting humiliated. Photo Credit: WWE.

Sting and Dick Slater: Their Dirty, One-Sided Backstage Fight

by Griffin Kaye  Sep 20, 2025

A brutal backstage brawl left Sting battered and humiliated by ‘Dirty’ Dick Slater in one of wrestling’s most infamous one-sided fights.

Debrah Miceli (Madusa and Alundra Blayze) over the years.

Blayze of Glory: The Madusa/Alundra Blayze Story

by Si Powell  Jan 18, 2023

Hers is a tale of changing the wrestling landscape, inspiring others, and, ultimately, monster trucks. This is Madusa, and here is her story.

SummerSlam 1992 was assembled at the outdoor Wembley Stadium outside London, England. The 80,355 attendees buzzed throughout the evening to cheer on their hometown hero, The British Bulldog. He was set to take on his real-life brother-in-law Bret Hart for the Intercontinental Championship in the evening's main event. Both competitors were incredibly over with the fans at the time, but not all was what it seemed. In a match he would later consider the greatest of his career, Bret would have to carry Bulldog through the entire match as he forgot everything he was supposed to do. It resulted from many unfortunate choices leading up to their match.

Bret Hart and British Bulldog: True Story of SummerSlam 1992

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 30, 2023

All was not as it seemed at Summerslam 1992. That night, Bret Hart would have to battle much more than the British Bulldog Davey Boy…

On February 4th, 1986, the wrestling world and the real world came to a tragic crossroads after the body of “Gorgeous” Gino Hernandez was found dead in his condominium. He was only 29 years old. Several days had passed before WCCW referee Rick Hazzard discovered him. Shocked family members scrambled for answers, and fans mourned the loss of a heel performer they loved to hate. More than 30 years later, questions and theories still abound over what happened to Gino Hernandez on his final fateful night.

Gino Hernandez – His Tragic Death and The Mystery That Remains

by Javier Ojst  Mar 1, 2023

Gino Hernandez had the ‘it factor,’ but he was running with strong, powerful people that might not have liked certain things getting out.

When It Was Real by Nikita Breznikov, with Scott Teal

When It Was Real by Nikita Breznikov, with Scott Teal | Book Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 10, 2023

Pro Wrestling Stories senior writer Evan Ginzburg reviews the book When It Was Real by Nikita Breznikov, with Scott Teal.

These five rivalries pushed Shawn Michaels to run the gamut of emotions in front of the audience and are feuds fans will never forget.

5 Rivalries Shawn Michaels Will Be Remembered For

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 4, 2023

Shawn Michaels ran the gamut of emotions in these five rivalries and are feuds wrestling fans will never forget.

Hulk Hogan and Jake Roberts in a "Snake Pit" segment on Wrestling Challenge, November 23rd, 1986

Hulk Hogan and Jake Roberts: Why Vince Rejected Their Feud

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

In 1986, Hulk Hogan and Jake Roberts were gearing up for a big feud on television before Vince McMahon nixed the idea. Both men explain…

Vince McMahon was hopelessly in love. And after just one phone call, McMahon was rendered powerless to his fancied mystery man. What McMahon's heart wanted was Evel Knievel. What he got was a disaster!

Vince McMahon and Evel Knievel’s Doomed Partnership

by Stosh Jonjak  May 21, 2025

In 1974, Vince McMahon bet big on Evel Knievel… and it nearly ruined him. A fiery stunt, a riot, and a lesson that shaped his…

The bond between Scott Hall and Curt Hennig ran deep.

Scott Hall and Curt Hennig’s Secret Bond Beyond The Ring

by Matt Pender  Feb 24, 2023

Learn about the unique bond between Curt Hennig and Scott Hall, two pro wrestlers known for their athleticism and loyalty to each other.

Discover 18 modern pro wrestling championship belts that define today's craft, rivaling the legendary designs of wrestling's golden era!

18 Wrestling Championship Belts That Shine in Modern Era

by Kevin Tanza  Jul 23, 2025

Discover 18 modern pro wrestling championship belts that define today’s craft, rivaling the legendary designs of wrestling’s golden era!

Bob Holly on the 'Real' Chyna and Jeff Jarrett Holding WWE Hostage

Bob Holly on the ‘Real’ Chyna and Jeff Jarrett Holding WWE Hostage

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jul 4, 2023

Bob Holly opens up about how Chyna and Triple H were once the cameras were turned off, Jeff Jarrett holding the WWE hostage, and more.

From Stunning to Stone Cold: Steve Austin over the years.

How Steve Austin Became Stone Cold

by JP Zarka  Feb 13, 2023

Things didn’t go well for Steve Austin as “The Ringmaster” in the WWF. It wasn’t long until a stone-cold cup of tea changed his life…

One of the secrets to any wrestler’s longevity is to have the ability to evolve, and Kane is no exception to that rule. Throughout his time, the Devil’s Favorite Demon has undergone more costume changes than a Lady Gaga concert, some subtle, some drastic, some for better and some for worse.

Kane – 20 Iconic (and Rare!) Attires Worn Over The Years

by Tim Buckler  Apr 22, 2025

Take a look back at 20 iconic and rare looks Kane has had throughout the years as we break down the various changes and why…

At WCW Uncensored ’95, “The Natural” Dustin Rhodes and Blacktop Bully (Barry Darsow) clashed in the infamous King of the Road Match; a one-of-a-kind, high-risk battle atop a moving 18-wheeler that remains one of wrestling’s most notorious gimmick matches.

Infamous King Of The Road Match at WCW Uncensored ’95

by Ash Jacob  Jun 19, 2025

The King of the Road Match at WCW Uncensored ’95: An infamous, one-of-a-kind brawl in a moving 18-wheeler that cost two stars their jobs.

January 30, 1908: The earliest known wrestling footage featuring George Hackenschmidt vs. Joe Rogers. Historian Ruslan C. Pashayev reveals why this pivotal match is pro wrestling’s most game-changing discovery yet.

Earliest Wrestling Footage: 1908 Hack vs. Rogers Review

by Ruslan C. Pashayev  Aug 27, 2025

Earliest 1908 wrestling footage reveals George Hackenschmidt and Joe Rogers. We review a pivotal moment that shaped the sport forever.

The Mass Transit Incident remains one of the most controversial moments in ECW's history.

Mass Transit Incident: How One Match Nearly Ended ECW

by Marc Madison  Nov 18, 2025

ECW’s 1996 mass transit incident turned a house show into a brutal flashpoint that nearly destroyed the promotion.

Tom Castor clutches his leg after sustaining a horrific injury while referring in the main event of a WWE NXT house show in Omaha, Nebraska, on April 25th, 2019.

WWE Referee Tom Castor and His Amazing Act of Resilience

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 28, 2023

WWE NXT referee Tom Castor showed vast amounts of resilience after a gruesome injury took place mid-match in Omaha in 2019.

From its first use in the early 1900s to its evolution to today, dive into the rich history and secrets behind wrestling entrance theme music!

Secret History of Entrance Theme Music in Wrestling

by Jeff Frantom  Jan 26, 2024

From its first use in the early 1900s to its evolution to today, dive into the rich history and secrets behind wrestling entrance theme music!

Sean O’Haire captivated audiences in WCW and WWE as the Devil’s Advocate, but behind the spotlight, his story took a darker turn, leaving a haunting legacy.

Sean O’Haire: Wrestling’s Tragic Cautionary Tale

by Matt Roberts  Nov 21, 2024

Sean O’Haire captivated audiences in WCW and WWE, but behind the spotlight, his story took a darker turn, leaving a haunting legacy.

Bobby Heenan and Nick Bockwinkel Incident in Chicago

Bobby Heenan and Nick Bockwinkel Incident in Chicago

by JP Zarka  Jan 17, 2025

In 1975, a terrifying situation occurred in Chicago, and Bobby Heenan, Nick Bockwinkel, and Verne Gagne were lucky to leave with their lives.

Mr. Perfect (Curt Hennig), Macho Man Randy Savage, and The Honky Tonk Man dominated the WWE Intercontinental Championship during their legendary reigns - but which of these icons holds the longest reign in the title’s long history? Discover the complete ranking of all thirteen record-setting champions who transformed this prestigious belt into a launchpad for superstardom.

WWE Intercontinental Championship: 13 Longest Reigns

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jun 26, 2025

Discover the 13 longest WWE Intercontinental Championship reigns and the legends who made history with each title run.

Strongman Ken Patera over the years.

Ken Patera: Olympic Strongman to Pro Wrestling Glory

by Benny J. Scala  Feb 15, 2023

The ‘strongman’ has always held an important place in professional wrestling. But was Ken Patera the strongest of them all?

On October 27th, 1993, Sid Vicious and Arn Anderson were locked in one of pro wrestling’s most infamous and brutal real-life hotel fights, with a pair of scissors at the center of the chaos.​

Sid Vicious vs. Arn Anderson: The Bloody Scissors Fight

by JP Zarka  Sep 20, 2024

Uncover the infamous scissor fight between Sid Vicious and Arn Anderson—a brutal brawl that changed wrestling history and left lasting scars.​

Earl Hebner stands between Bret Hart (with WWF President Gorilla Monsoon) and Shawn Michaels (with mentor and real-life trainer Jose Lothario, who came out of retirement for this match) at WrestleMania XII, poised to enforce Iron Man Match rules – and one missed call could rewrite wrestling history.

Wrestling Referees: Hidden Secrets Behind the Stripes

by Cam Howe  Oct 15, 2025

Uncover hidden secrets of wrestling referees – one wrong call could rewrite history and change how you see every match.

These trios of wrestling managers cornered the heel market and made life miserable for babyfaces in their respective eras!

Wrestling Manager Trios That Changed the Game in 3 Eras

by Benny J. Scala  Mar 8, 2023

These trios of wrestling managers cornered the heel market and made life miserable for babyfaces in their respective eras!

The notorious “Chicago Short Count” Screwjob - a name many fans call the match between Gorgeous George and Chief Don Eagle from May 26th, 1950, at Chicago’s International Amphitheater.

Wrestling’s First Screwjob: Gorgeous George vs. Don Eagle

by Javier Ojst  May 14, 2025

Wrestling’s first screwjob: In 1950, Gorgeous George was at the center of a betrayal so blatant, the promoter admitted it!

The United States Wrestling Association (USWA) wrestling territory thrived with stars such as Jerry "The King" Lawler, Sid Vicious, Jeff Jarrett, announcer Lance Russell, Nightmare Danny Davis, The Punisher (later the Undertaker), manager Skandor Akbar, Cactus Jack Manson (Mick Foley), "Stunning Steve Austin, Brian Christopher, "Gentleman" Chris Adams, Miss Texas (Jacqueline Moore), Eric Embry, and a host of others.

United States Wrestling Association (USWA) | Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Apr 22, 2023

The United States Wrestling Association (USWA) saw many young stars come through its doors that rattled the wrestling game to its core!

8 Tales from a Former WCW and Turner Corporate Employee

8 Tales from a Former WCW and Turner Corporate Employee

by Richard Steinberg  Jan 10, 2023

Former WCW and Turner corporate employee Richard Steinberg shares legendary (and unusual!) moments behind the scenes and on the road.

King Kong Bundy and Larry Sharpe - The Lost Tapes

King Kong Bundy and Larry Sharpe – The Lost Tapes

by Javier Ojst  Feb 25, 2023

A recently discovered tape of King Kong Bundy and Larry Sharpe offers a rare, uncut glimpse of life on the road for two road-weary veterans.

From seeing The Undertaker outside of WWE and beyond, here are five times "The Forbidden Door" was opened in wrestling!

5 Times The Forbidden Door Opened in Wrestling

by Will Gray  Feb 15, 2023

From seeing The Undertaker outside of WWE and beyond, here are five times “The Forbidden Door” was opened in wrestling!

Dynamite Kid of the British Bulldogs and Jacques Rougeau of the Fabulous Rougeaus had a feud that went well beyond the ring.

Dynamite Kid and Jacques Rougeau Fight, Vince Responds

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

Problems between Dynamite Kid and Jacques Rougeau led to an epic backstage confrontation and Vince McMahon having to step in.

Terrible Ted The Wrestling Bear in a mock battle pose with his trainer/manager Dave McKigney.

Terrible Ted the Wrestling Bear – Battles In and Out of the Ring

by Josh Greenup  Jan 10, 2023

At 7ft tall and 700lbs, Terrible Ted the Wrestling Bear was an impressive beast, as was his near 20-year wrestling career.

From WWE wrestlers in Playboy, Shawn Michaels' regret, and more, discover 30 racy times pro wrestling entangled with the adult industry!

Playboy to WWE: 30 Racy Wrestling & Adult Industry Relations

by Alexa Pruett  Nov 11, 2024

From WWE wrestlers in Playboy, Shawn Michaels’ regret, and more, discover 30 racy times pro wrestling entangled with the adult industry!

El Santo and Black Shadow.

El Santo, Black Shadow, and the Curious Case of a Lost Mask

by Javier Ojst  May 15, 2024

The “Mother of All Betting Matches” saw Black Shadow losing his mask to El Santo. Mystery and controversy still surround what happened next.

From competing in the Olympics to fulfilling a childhood dream, this is the memorable story of Mark Henry.

Mark Henry: Secret Tale Behind Hall of Fame Career

by Joseph Finnegan  Feb 27, 2023

An intimate look into the life and career of Mark Henry and how he fulfilled his childhood dream during his 20+ years in pro wrestling.

At WrestleMania 12, Ultimate Warrior crushed Triple H in 99 seconds, igniting years of animosity and behind-the-scenes backlash.

Ultimate Warrior vs. Triple H: A 99-Second WrestleMania Disaster

by Richard Thompson  Jun 22, 2025

At WrestleMania 12, Ultimate Warrior crushed Triple H in 99 seconds, igniting years of animosity and behind-the-scenes backlash.

Jack Donovan, Tojo Yamamoto, Jerry Jarrett, and Jackie Fargo.

Jack Donovan Deal – One of Wrestling’s Most Heinous Attacks

by Javier Ojst  Jul 17, 2023

Jack Donovan was in a situation that almost turned deadly. It changed the lives of Tojo Yamamoto, Jerry Jarrett and Jackie Fargo forever.

Long-time friends Chris Benoit and Bob Holly. As it turns out, Chris had invited Bob over to his home on the day the Benoit Family nightmare began.

Bob Holly Reveals Unexpected Invitation From Chris Benoit

by Luke Marcoccia  Sep 24, 2025

In 2007, Bob Holly almost found himself in the middle of one of the most tragic stories in wrestling history – the Benoit family tragedy.

Yam Bag: The Night I Wrestled an Elderly Woman

by Ian Matthew Harper  Apr 21, 2022

Here is the tale of how I, a middle school social studies teacher by day, found myself involved in a wrestling match with an elderly…

The Great Sasuke delivers a brutal lesson to The Dirtbike Kid, turning what began as a standard match into a shocking display of real aggression.

The Great Sasuke vs. The Dirtbike Kid: A Match Gone Wrong

by Rutvik Keche  Sep 10, 2025

The 1999 match between Great Sasuke and Dirtbike Kid became a brutal real fight when the British wrestler defied a Japanese wrestling legend.

Bobby Lashley during his WWE debut on SmackDown, September 23rd, 2005.

Bobby Lashley – The Freak Accident That Almost Ended Tragically

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

Over a decade before he became the “CEO of The Hurt Business,” Bobby Lashley was a young buck at the genesis of his wrestling career.

The Rock and Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania X8. Icon vs. Icon. One of the greatest WrestleMania moments of all time.

The Rock and Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania X8: True Story

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

The Rock and Hulk Hogan. Icon vs Icon. One of the greatest matches in WrestleMania history, but things did not go as planned!

JP Zarka, seen here proudly wearing a Pro Wrestling Stories shirt, created the website and brand in 2015 to preserve wrestling’s untold history. He opened up about the journey behind it all during an April 10, 2025 interview on Radio Woking.

JP Zarka on the Inside Story of Pro Wrestling Stories

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Apr 19, 2025

JP Zarka, Founder of Pro Wrestling Stories, shares his unexpected journey from the classroom to building a major wrestling history website.

Pro Wrestling Guerrilla has thrived since 2003 with star alumni such as Adam Pearce, Kevin Steen (Kevin Owens), AJ Styles, Uhaa Nation (Apollo Crews), Frankie Kazarian, Adam Cole, El Generico (Sami Zayn), CM Punk, Colt Cabana, Tyler Black (Seth Rollins), Kenny Omega, Bryan Danielson (FKA Daniel Bryan), Claudio Castagnoli (FKA Cesaro), Johnny Gargano, and a host of others.

PWG: The Untold Story of Pro Wrestling Guerrilla

by Jordan Talbot  Apr 14, 2025

Before WWE & AEW, today’s biggest stars cut their teeth in SoCal’s Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG). Discover its untold story!

On September 1, 2018, Chris Jericho (disguised as Pentagon) made a surprise appearance at All In.

Chris Jericho – How He Barely Avoided Disaster at All In

by Luke Marcoccia  Sep 24, 2025

Moments before Chris Jericho made a shock debut at All In, problems arose backstage. Here’s how it all came exceptionally close to backfiring!

Big Van Vader.

Vader and the Time His Eye Popped Out During a Match

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

In 1990, Vader saw his eye quite literally come out of the socket. Despite the gruesome injury, ending the match never crossed his mind!

Sting Recalls the Scary Moment He Almost Died in WCW

Sting Recalls the Scary Moment He Almost Died in WCW

by JP Zarka  Jan 7, 2025

As Sting stepped off the edge of the platform suspended 140 feet above for the very first time, he quickly realized something was wrong…

In 1994, amidst scandals alleging embezzlement and the Yakuza, Antonio Inoki looked to salvage his reputation and spot in politics. He saw an opportunity where most saw an isolationist, authoritarian dictatorship: North Korea. Boasting a crowd of over 360,000 fans across two days, Collision in Korea was the most prominent international event since the Korean War, and Inoki, Muhammed Ali, and Ric Flair would soon become unlikely ambassadors in a bizarre political game.

Collision In Korea – Wrestling’s Bizarre Political Game in a Land of War

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

In front of 360k fans, Antonio Inoki, Muhammed Ali, and Ric Flair became ambassadors in a bizarre political game: Collision in Korea.

"Spoiler alert!" The Spoiler: Don Jardine over the years.

‘The Spoiler’ Don Jardine: Secret Life Behind the Mask

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 28, 2023

‘The Spoiler’ Don Jardine headlined worldwide. Later, he inspired a young Undertaker. Here are tales about his career and notorious temper!

Chris Jericho pondering the meaning of life mid-match against Fandango at Wrestlemania 29.

Chris Jericho and Fandango – The Truth Behind WrestleMania Loss

by James Klonowski  Jan 10, 2023

WrestleMania 29 turned upside down for Chris Jericho when he was told he would have to lose to Fandango. It almost led to him quitting…

"Irish" Mickey Doyle.

Irish Mickey Doyle – A Journeyman’s Memorable Tale

by Javier Ojst  Jul 7, 2022

In his well-traveled career bankrolled by mostly paltry paychecks, Irish Mickey Doyle accumulated memorable stories working the territories.

Tully Blanchard Origins - His Memorable Football Career Before Wrestling

Tully Blanchard | His Memorable Football Career Before Wrestling

by Ron Matejko  Jul 7, 2022

Whether it was football or wrestling, the spotlight has always shined bright on the second-generation star, Tully Blanchard.

Tim Storm with his hero Harley Race, and as NWA World Heavyweight Champion.

Tim Storm: From Super Fan to NWA World Champion

by Ian Aldous  May 21, 2025

From avid professional wrestling fan to NWA World Heavyweight Champion, this is the amazing tale of Tim Storm!

Kurt Angle and Shane McMahon stole the show at the 2001 King of the Ring. In doing so, they nearly sent Shane’s dad Vince McMahon to an early grave!

Kurt Angle, Shane McMahon, and the Match Vince Almost Stopped

by James Klonowski  Mar 3, 2023

Kurt Angle and Shane McMahon stole the show at the 2001 King of the Ring. In doing so, they nearly sent Vince McMahon to an…

AEW, Dismissing the Nonsensical, and WWE – A Penance For Past Sins

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 7, 2022

Dispelling the nonsensical around AEW, how WWE is penance for past sins, and why 2019 is the golden age for independent wrestling.

Many wish they could be successful in professional wrestling, but for many, it ends up being only a pipedream. Enter fantasy wrestling!

Fantasy Wrestling – What Is It All About?

by Joel Potter  Jan 4, 2023

Many wish they could be successful in professional wrestling, but for many, it ends up being only a pipedream. Enter fantasy wrestling!

Some wrestling championship belts died a painful death! It’s time to acknowledge at least a few that deserved a kinder fate.

10 Wrestling Championship Belts That Aren’t Recognized

by Aarij Arifeen  Dec 2, 2024

Some forgotten wrestling championships died a painful death! It’s time to acknowledge at least a few that deserved a kinder fate.

The Mid-South Wrestling Association wrestling territory thrived with the cast of "Cowboy" Bill Watts, Boyd Pierce, Mr. Olympia, The Junkyard Dog, Jim Ross, Jim Cornette, Bobby Eaton, and Dennis Condrey of The Midnight Express, Buddy Landel, Mr. Wrestling II, Magnum T.A., Ted DiBiase, Dr. Death Steve Williams, Robert Gibson and Ricky Morton of The Rock 'n' Roll Express, Kamala, Butch Read, Hacksaw Jim Duggan, and a host of others.

Mid-South Wrestling Association | The Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Mar 10, 2023

Mid-South Wrestling Association was one of the hottest wrestling promotions of the 1980s. Its ultimate demise leaves its mark in history.

A heel Vince McMahon on USWA television in 1993 and Jerry "The King" Lawler.

Vince McMahon’s WWF and Jerry Lawler’s USWA: A Secret War!

by Javier Ojst  Mar 1, 2023

The war between Vince McMahon and Jerry “The King” Lawler and the time Vince and several WWF stars invaded the USWA in Memphis.

Owen Hart and Kurt Angle - Wrestling’s Current Holy Grail

Owen Hart and Kurt Angle – Wrestling’s Current Holy Grail

by Joey Mills  Jan 10, 2023

When Kurt Angle faced Owen Hart on May 10th, 1999, he learned more than a lesson in the ring. Tragically, Owen would pass away 13…

Kurt Angle: "The milk wasn't what you thought it was!"

Kurt Angle Opens Up During Reddit ‘Ask Me Anything’ Session

by JP Zarka  Jan 18, 2023

Kurt Angle held nothing back, discussing almost breaking Undertaker’s streak, tapping out Hogan, the milk truck incident, and more!

PLANE RIDE FROM HELL! The Exclusive WWE Inside Story

PLANE RIDE FROM HELL! The Exclusive WWE Inside Story

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

Put your seat upright, fasten your seatbelt – there may be some turbulence along the way. This is the story of WWE’s Plane Ride From…

Vince McMahon, Ric Flair, and the story behind the first WWE Draft on March 25th, 2002.

WWE Draft: The Inside Story Behind the First Brand Split

by Aaron Young  Aug 23, 2022

Those involved in 2002 share the reasonings behind the fateful decision behind one of their most debatable moves: the WWE Draft!

In the movie The Wrestler (2008), actor Mickey Rourke gives a performance of a lifetime as Randy “The Ram” Robinson.

The Wrestler – 9 Surprising Unrevealed Facts About The Film!

by Javier Ojst  May 18, 2022

The tragic wrestling convention scene in The Wrestler was not filmed as planned. Here are 9 surprising facts about this Oscar-nominated film!

The WCW invasion of the WWF should have been one of the biggest angles in wrestling history. Only it wasn't. Where did it all go wrong?

WCW Invasion in WWF: Where Did It All Go Wrong?

by Aaron Young  Feb 12, 2023

The WCW invasion of the WWF should have been one of the biggest angles in wrestling history. That’s not what happened…

Shane McMahon risked it all for WWE! Explore 13 of his most daring moments, from epic leaps to jaw-dropping crashes that defined his legacy.

13 Times Shane McMahon Risked It All in WWE

by Kevin Tanza  Oct 4, 2024

Shane McMahon risked it all for WWE! Explore 13 of his most daring moments, from epic leaps to jaw-dropping crashes that defined his legacy.

The ever-unpredictable New Jack.

New Jack: Secret History on Wrestling’s Most Violent Man

by Javier Ojst  Jun 23, 2025

New Jack made a name for himself as one of the business’s most dangerous and unpredictable wrestlers. This is his shocking story!

We had so much fun using AI technology to create these photos of wrestlers, even when the descriptions were downright outrageous! We couldn't believe the results!

AI-Generated Photos of Wrestlers: So Accurate It’s Scary!

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 8, 2023

We had much fun creating these AI-generated photos of wrestlers. Even when the descriptions were outrageous, we couldn’t believe the results!

Bill Apter over the years.

Is Wrestling Fixed? Bill Apter’s Surprising Wrestling Journey

by Evan Ginzburg  Sep 5, 2023

Journalist & photographer Bill Apter is famed for his “Apter Mags” & popularizing wrestling over the years. But how does his book stack up?

The tale of Hulk Hogan and DDP is one of respect and admiration.

DDP and Hulk Hogan: An Unlikely Tale of Admiration

by Matt Pender  Feb 16, 2023

DDP got his start late in the game at 35, and his wrestling career didn’t take off right away. But, Hulk Hogan took notice!

The Undertaker was the longest-tenured WWE wrestler of all time. But what do his peers have to say about him?

Undertaker: 18 Stories Showing the Kind of Man He Is

by Matt Pender  Oct 17, 2024

The Undertaker was the longest-tenured WWE wrestler of all time. But what do his peers have to say about him?

When Raven showed up to WWE in 2000, it should have marked his greatest run of all.

Raven: Behind his Controversial Downfall in WWE

by Andy Smith  Mar 3, 2023

When Raven showed up to WWE in 2000, it should have marked his greatest run of all. Vince McMahon and WWE had different plans.

Paul Orndorff and B. Brian Blair early in their professional wrestling careers.

Brian Blair on Paul Orndorff, Shoot Fights, Ribs, and More!

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 10, 2023

Brian Blair opens up about Paul Orndorff, The Cauliflower Alley Club, rib stories, and five times he got into brutal shoot fights.

Here are five supernatural wrestling gimmicks in WWE that have incorporated elements of the unknown that have left fans in horror!

Unveil the Paranormal: 5 WWE Supernatural Gimmicks Exposed

by Aaron Young  Jul 10, 2023

Brace yourself as we reveal the surprising story behind five wrestlers who embraced the paranormal with these supernatural gimmicks!

Before his passing, professional wrestler George The Animal Steele opened up about his secret life on the side.

George The Animal Steele: A Teacher’s Secret Life as a Wrestler

by JP Zarka  May 24, 2023

Former WWE star George The Animal Steele led a double life! Before his death, he opened up about his secret life and fetish for turnbuckles!

Randy Orton, Vince McMahon, and Mr. Kennedy.

How Randy Orton Got Mr. Kennedy Fired from WWE

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 5, 2023

If you mess up with the wrong superstar, major consequences may follow! This story about Randy Orton and Mr. Kennedy illustrates just that.

10 Masked Wrestlers Whose Identities Were Quite Obvious!

10 Masked Wrestlers Whose Identities Were Quite Obvious!

by Griffin Kaye  Dec 23, 2023

Here are ten of our favorite examples of wrestlers donning a mask to conceal their identity. As you’ll find, they weren’t fooling anybody!

JP Zarka of ProWrestlingStories.com joins Brian Tramel on the “Shootin’ The Shiznit" podcast

JP Zarka of ProWrestlingStories.com Interview

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 13, 2022

JP Zarka of ProWrestlingStories.com joins Brian for a new episode of Shootin’ The Shiznit. Coliseum videos, wrestling books, the creation of PWS, and more!

Discover 10 times nWo and DX indirectly competed: secret clashes, betrayals, and behind-the-scenes battles that rewrote wrestling history.

nWo vs. DX: 10 Times They Indirectly Competed

by Aarij Arifeen  Oct 17, 2025

Discover 10 times nWo and DX indirectly competed: secret clashes, betrayals, and behind-the-scenes battles that rewrote wrestling history.

Ian Matthew Harper (aka Colonel Harper) opens up about his war into the crazy world of professional wrestling! [Photos by Jenn Moore. Copyright: World Wrestling Alliance]

My War Into The Crazy World of Wrestling

by Ian Matthew Harper  Feb 2, 2022

A middle school social studies teacher’s journey into the crazy world of professional wrestling and the wars he faced getting there.

Conrad Thompson: World Champion podcast host and wrestling promoter.

Conrad Thompson: Surprising Story Behind His Success

by JP Zarka  Jan 15, 2023

Conrad Thompson has been at the wrestling podcast mountain since 2013. Learn the surprising story behind his success!

"Mr. Olympia" Jerry Stubbs over the years.

Mr. Olympia Unmasked: Secret Story of Jerry Stubbs

by Jim Phillips  Nov 18, 2025

Many today may not be familiar with Mr. Olympia Jerry Stubbs, who lived a secret life outside of the ring. This is his remarkable story!

Zombies in wrestling—an unforgettable spectacle that blurs the lines between horror and sport, but is it a gimmick best left in the grave?

5 Zombie Moments in Wrestling You Can’t Miss!

by Tim Buckler  Oct 29, 2024

When wrestling met the undead, the results were as bizarre as they were chaotic! Dive into 5 iconic showdowns where zombies took center ring!

Strike Force: Tito Santana and Rick Martel.

Tito Santana and Rick Martel: Rise and Demise of Strike Force

by Matt Pender  May 7, 2025

Tito Santana and Rick Martel thrived as Strike Force but were doomed with a gimmick that killed their momentum. This is their story.

Macho Man Randy Savage and the infamous Waffle House incident.

Macho Man Randy Savage: Infamous Waffle House Incident!

by JP Zarka  Feb 16, 2023

Macho Man Randy Savage just wanted to order his night breakfast at Waffle House. However, a recently married cowboy got in the way of that!

King Kong Bundy in action during his lightning-fast victory over S.D. Jones at WrestleMania I on March 31st, 1985, at Madison Square Garden. This historic squash match introduced a storytelling technique that would become a lasting staple in professional wrestling.

King Kong Bundy vs. SD Jones Squash Match that Changed WWE

by Richard Thompson  Oct 29, 2024

Inside WrestleMania’s forgotten nine-second squash match where King Kong Bundy crushed S.D. Jones, introducing a lasting wrestling staple.

Lonnie Mayne – The Glass Eating, Raw Meat Chewing Original Moondog!

by Javier Ojst  Sep 22, 2023

“Moondog” Lonnie Mayne proved crazy doesn’t mean crazy if there’s a method behind the madness. This is his memorable story.

CM Punk - The Shield Didn't Turn Out Originally as Planned

CM Punk Describes Initial Idea for The Shield

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 2, 2023

The Shield debuted in WWE in 2012, and according to CM Punk, the original idea for this group did not play out as planned. 

Irma González and Irma Aguilar (Las Irmas) revolutionized women's lucha libre in Mexico, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations of female wrestlers through their mother-daughter partnership that spanned decades.

Las Irmas: The Mother-Daughter Duo Who Ruled Lucha Libre

by Javier Ojst  Nov 14, 2024

Mother-daughter team Las Irmas (Irma González and Irma Aguilar) defied odds to become legends, paving the way for women in Mexican wrestling.

Lex Luger, Vince McMahon, and the failed World Bodybuilding Federation experiment.

World Bodybuilding Federation Fiasco – Where Did It Go Wrong?

by Javier Ojst  Feb 25, 2023

The World Bodybuilding Federation was an epic financial disaster for Vince McMahon and Titan Sports. Here’s how it all went wrong.

350 Days: The Story of Wrestling, Sex, Drugs, and Rock-n-Roll

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 5, 2023

Associate Producer Evan Ginzburg gives a behind-the-scenes look at 350 Days, starring Bret Hart and Superstar Billy Graham.

The Times When Wrestling Took It Too Far

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

The WWE has given us decades of entertainment in the form of staged aggression and enthralling stories, yet there are times when wrestling has gone…

Discover the fifteen most talked-about WrestleMania match finishes, including upsets, betrayals, and moments that divide fans to this day.

15 WrestleMania Endings That Sparked Backlash

by Jason LeBlanc  Jul 16, 2025

Discover the most talked-about WrestleMania match finishes, including upsets, betrayals, and moments that divided the WWE fanbase.

In 1983, Vince McMahon did his best to sabotage Starrcade '83.

How Vince McMahon Tried To Sabotage Starrcade ’83

by Griffin Kaye  Jan 10, 2023

One attempted act of wrestling vandalism by Vince McMahon could have jeopardized the first major wrestling pay-per-view, Starrcade ’83.

Earl Hebner raises the arm of Bret Hart after he successfully defended the WWF World Heavyweight Championship against Shawn Michaels at 1992’s Survivor Series pay-per-view.

Bret Hart and his Often Overlooked First Championship Reign

by Si Powell  Apr 22, 2025

We look back on the first Bret Hart title reign, and how the WWF seemingly could not entirely pull the trigger this first time around.

Triple H cuts "that" promo on Booker T.

Triple H and Booker T – WWE’s Most Shameful Feud

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

The feud between Triple H and Booker T in 2003 is one of WWE’s most shameful feuds and still leaves a sour taste in the…

Christopher Whaley, The Masked Saint: Pastor, Wrestler, and Real-Life Vigilante.

The Masked Saint: Pastor, Wrestler, and Real-Life Vigilante

by Benny J. Scala  Sep 27, 2023

Discover the untold tale of The Masked Saint, Christopher Whaley: a wrestler, pastor, and vigilante whose actions impacted many lives.

The Iron Sheik made Twitter humble!

The Late-Great Iron Sheik’s 10 Greatest Tweets

by Braeden Farrell  Jun 7, 2023

Although he is sadly no longer with us, The Iron Sheik certainly stirred up much controversy and drama along the way on Twitter!

"It was funny to us, but it wasn’t funny to Little Tokyo!" Former NWA President Bruce Tharpe opens up about life after Billy Corgan purchased the NWA in 2017, who scared him most off-camera, a wrestling rib that went too far for a former wrestler, and more!

Bruce Tharpe: Rare Look Into His Life After the NWA

by JP Zarka  Apr 26, 2023

In this exclusive interview, Bruce Tharpe, former president of NWA, opens up about his life after years of silence.

Adrian Street was a brawler who lived by his own rules!

Adrian Street: From Glitz to Grappling, His Legendary Tale

by Javier Ojst  May 11, 2024

Adrian Street played by his own rules. He’d inflict pain (while keeping mascara intact)! But how hard was life for the sequined grappler?

“Nicole Bass was special. Wonderful. Both fun and ever so funny with the biggest of hearts to match her biggest of bodies.”

Nicole Bass – The Life and Tragic Passing of My Friend

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 11, 2023

When my beloved friend Nicole Bass walked into a room, everything just stopped. This is my tribute to her and her life.

Steve Keirn is best known for his appearances in the NWA territories as one-half of the tag team The Fabulous Ones and the World Wrestling Federation as the second version of Doink the Clown and Skinner.

Steve Keirn: Fabulous Ones, Doink, Skinner, and Beyond

by Javier Ojst  Apr 22, 2025

Although Steve Keirn found success as one half of The Fabulous Ones and later Doink the Clown and Skinner, his path was a brutal one.

231 days into his 173-0 WCW streak, Goldberg faced William Regal. Here’s how it all went wrong that night in El Paso.

Goldberg and William Regal: El Paso Showdown Gone Wrong

by Joseph Finnegan  Sep 30, 2025

231 days into his 173-0 WCW streak, Goldberg faced William Regal. Here’s how it all went wrong that night in El Paso.

Hulk Hogan and Mr. T were featured in advertisements for the first WrestleMania event in 1985.

The Six Pack: In Search of WrestleMania – An Honest Review

by Javier Ojst  Apr 2, 2024

Honest review of the book “The Six Pack: On the Open Road in Search of WrestleMania,” which exposes the reality behind WWE and WrestleMania.

Von Erich Family: Father Fritz with sons Kerry, David, Kevin, and Michael.

Von Erich Wrestling Family Tragedy: A Cautionary Tale

by JP Zarka  Feb 8, 2023

Details on the tragic deaths of 5 of the 6 Von Erich brothers and how Kevin Von Erich has somehow found a way to endure…

Noise, color, and body contact! If you're wondering what a story about roller derby is doing on a pro wrestling website, allow us the opportunity to illustrate why.

Roller Derby – The Contact Sport Like Wrestling on Wheels!

by Benny J. Scala  Feb 4, 2022

Noise, color, and body contact! If you’re wondering why a story about roller derby is on a wrestling site, allow us the chance to explain!

Goldberg and Kevin Nash - The Night The Streak Died

Why Goldberg’s Streak Ended: The Secret Reason Revealed

by Joseph Finnegan  Sep 13, 2024

Kevin Nash ended Goldberg’s undefeated streak at Starrcade 1998, but controversy still surrounds WCW’s decision to end the run.

Eiji Ezaki (Hayabusa) is stretchered out of the FMW ring on October 22, 2001, after tragedy struck during his final match against Mammoth Sasaki. The devastating moment left horrified wrestlers and fans watching as one of professional wrestling’s most innovative high-flyers faced an uncertain future. This tragic image remains one of wrestling’s most pivotal moments, with fellow performers like Chris Jericho reconsidering their own aerial techniques in light of the accident.

Hayabusa’s Last Match: When Loyalty Turned to Tragedy

by Marc Madison  Nov 12, 2025

On October 22, 2001, pro wrestling saw a moment that defined and ended Hayabusa’s career when a routine move went tragically wrong.

Bullet Club - Origin of One of Wrestling's Most Iconic Stables

Bullet Club: Surprising Tale Behind Stable’s Creation

by Rob Ireland  Jan 7, 2023

Four foreign dojo boys came together to create The Bullet Club in a company that generally didn’t provide many opportunities for foreigners.

"Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers as the NWA World Heavyweight Champion. Rogers was a seminal influence in today's entertainment product, as well as being the star that drove a major wedge between the NWA and Vincent J. McMahon.

Buddy Rogers – The Man Who Drove a Wedge in the NWA

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 10, 2023

“Nature Boy” Buddy Rogers was a wrestling pioneer. When he passed away in 1992, he left behind a complicated legacy, but a lasting one.

The Dangerous Alliance - Larry Zbyszko, Rick Rude, Bobby Eaton, Paul E. Dangerously (Paul Heyman), Arn Anderson, and Stunning Steve Austin

Dangerous Alliance: Their Brief, Impactful Influence on WCW

by Si Powell  Jan 13, 2023

The Dangerous Alliance and their brief yet impactful influence on WCW in the early ’90s with Paul E. Dangerously at the helm.

Professional wrestling super-agent Bill Behrens and a young AJ Styles.

Bill Behrens: Wrestling’s Super-Agent Who Discovered AJ Styles

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Nov 27, 2023

You may not be familiar with who he is, but you know who his clients are. Bill Behrens is the wrestling super-agent who discovered AJ…

The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels Fight That Almost Was

The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels Fight That Almost Was

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

The Undertaker stood stoically backstage in Gorilla Position with his fists wrapped ready to confront Shawn Michaels at any moment.

Sir Mo, alongside enhancement talent who have the unenviable task of carrying King Mabel upon his throne! After being crowned king, a King of the Ring championship belt would be commissioned, which would soon lead to controversy.

Mabel and the King of the Ring Championship Belt Controversy

by Conor McCorkindale  May 18, 2023

A custom WWF King of the Ring championship belt was commissioned for King Mabel, which soon came with its share of controversy and scrutiny!

"The Super Genie" Melissa Coates

Melissa Coates – A Champion’s Fight Outside The Ring

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 6, 2023

Melissa Coates made a name for herself in multiple fields. But before her untimely passing, she went through her biggest fight yet.

From the devastating impact of a Shooting Star Press gone wrong to the chilling moment a spear in mid-air ended in unconsciousness, explore thirteen harrowing instances pro wrestlers were legitimately knocked out during a match!

13 Times a Wrestler Got Legit Knocked Out During a Match

by Kevin Tanza  Mar 11, 2024

Explore 13 harrowing times pro wrestlers faced the stark reality of their sport’s dangers and were legitimately knocked out during a match!

“Metal Maniac” Jeff Miller: Then & Now. When the dream of wrestling turned into a nightmare, one call to a respected veteran would change it all for him.

Metal Maniac: The Wrestling Story They Tried to Silence

by Javier Ojst  Feb 4, 2025

From rock star dreams to wrestling nightmare: How one phone call saved Metal Maniac from two of wrestling’s most notorious bullies.

"So, you want to be a wrestler?" Left: Stu Hart stretches a new wrestling recruit in the infamous Hart Dungeon. Right: A new batch of pro wrestling students absorb life lessons and fundamentals during training.

Want To Be a Wrestler? – Lessons in Wrestling and Life

by Jim Phillips  Mar 10, 2023

Want to be a wrestler? Sit under the learning tree as we discover that wrestling is much more than just a vehicle to fame and…

Bill DeMott as Hugh Morris in WCW, and in later years as head trainer at the WWE Performance Trainer.

Bill DeMott – No Laughing Matter: His Controversial Story

by Griffin Kaye  Dec 27, 2025

Bill DeMott garnered a swarm of controversy over multiple reported instances of unprofessional activity. What happened, and why?

Sting in WWE: Where did it all go wrong?

Sting: His Unlikely WWE Journey (and Where It Went Wrong)

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 20, 2023

It took 14 years for Vince McMahon to hire Sting after purchasing WCW. Here’s his unlikely journey to WWE and where it all went wrong.

Rey Mysterio Jr. and Psicosis face off at ECW Gangsta's Paradise, September 16. 1995.

Rey Mysterio Jr. and Psicosis | Stealing the Show in ECW

by Javier Ojst  Dec 8, 2023

Rey Mysterio Jr. and Psicosis in ECW was Extreme Lucha Libre at its finest. Paul Heyman entrusted both to create art. They did much more…

Ray Traylor, better known as The Big Boss Man, defined his career by hard work and resilience in both NWA and WWE.

‘Big Boss Man’ Ray Traylor’s Secret Life & Tragic Final Days

by Bobby Mathews  Sep 30, 2025

Ray Traylor, AKA The Big Boss Man, built a career on hard work and dedication. But unexpected tragedy struck at the height of his success.

Roddy Piper and Greg Valentine - Their Lauded Feud & Dog Collar Match

Roddy Piper and Greg Valentine – Their Lauded Feud & Dog Collar Match

by Matt Pender  Feb 7, 2022

Permanent damage was inflicted and they beat the hell out of each other. Roddy Piper and Greg Valentine discuss their memorable feud.

Eddie Guerrero remains one of the greatest and most influential wrestlers of his generation.

The Tragic Final Days of Eddie Guerrero

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 10, 2023

To put it simply: his heart gave out. The tragic passing of Eddie Guerrero is still hard to fathom. He had just turned 38 the…

The United Kingdom has produced some of the very best in professional wrestling over the years. Although some of the wrestlers we detail below broke through to major promotions during their time in the business, often, they aren't given the recognition they deserve. Here are twelve British wrestlers who were critical to the evolution of British wrestling and influenced some of the very best of today.

12 British Wrestlers From the Past Who Paved the Way

by Kieran Hamilton  Sep 3, 2025

Here are twelve British wrestlers who were critical to the evolution of British wrestling and influenced some of the very best of today.

King Kong Bundy died on March 4, 2019, at the age of 61. As it turns out, King Kong Bundy, who played a bald-headed monster on screen, was quite the opposite off-camera!

King Kong Bundy: Secret Tales on Wrestling’s Mischievous Giant

by JP Zarka  Feb 6, 2023

As it turns out, Christopher Alan Pallies, who played the bald-headed monster King Kong Bundy on screen, was quite the opposite off-camera!

Before there was a "Macho Man" Randy Savage, there was Randy Poffo, an aspiring baseball player.

Randy Savage: The Forgotten Baseball Career of Randy Poffo

by Ron Matejko  Jun 26, 2023

Before Randy Poffo changed the wrestling world as “Macho Man” Randy Savage, he was a talented baseball player with big-league aspirations.

The Rock delivering The People’s Elbow with great intensity.

The Rock | The People’s Elbow – The Story Behind Its Creation

by Christopher King  Jul 26, 2021

The People’s Elbow by The Rock was never meant to be used more than once. Here is the ridiculous story behind its creation.

A younger Adam Copeland as the "Rated R Superstar" Edge in WWE and Copeland more recently in All Elite Wrestling.

Adam Copeland on Edge – An Honest Review

by Teagan Wiltshire  Aug 28, 2024

Revisit Adam Copeland’s autobiography and discover the untold stories behind Edge’s rise to WWE stardom, AEW, and beyond.

The Original Lineup of the Four Horsemen: Ole Anderson, Tully Blanchard, J.J. Dillon, Arn Anderson, and Ric Flair in 1986.

The Four Horsemen – Their Story, In Their Own Words

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

Each original member of the Four Horsemen reveals the story of their creation, demise, and madness experienced on the road together.

Bret Hart didn't hold back when sharing his thoughts on the "weakling" and "phony hero," Ultimate Warrior.

Bret Hart on Ultimate Warrior Letting Down a Make-A-Wish Kid

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

Bret Hart shares the unfortunate story of the time Ultimate Warrior let down a Make-a-Wish kid on one of his final wishes.

Rowdy: The Roddy Piper Story | Book Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 3, 2023

We share our honest thoughts on Rowdy: The Roddy Piper Story, the unfinished autobiography Roddy started the very year that he passed away.

"The rumors of me hating the Papa Shango gimmick are true." Wrestler Charles Wright (also known for playing the roles of The Godfather and Kama in WWE) opens up about why he hated playing the role of Papa Shango.

Papa Shango: Why Charles Wright (Godfather) Disliked The Role

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Feb 3, 2023

Wrestler Charles Wright opens up about his memorable botched WrestleMania 8 run-in and why he didn’t like his Papa Shango character.

WCW’s first Halloween Havoc in 1989 teetered on the edge of disaster until The Great Muta emerged as an unexpected hero!

The Night The Great Muta Saved Halloween Havoc

by JP Zarka  Oct 30, 2024

In 1989, WCW’s first Halloween Havoc promised thrills–but not like this. Disaster struck, and The Great Muta emerged as the unlikely hero!

From the streets of Blackpool to the ring to VP, William Regal had one wild journey!

William Regal: His Secret, Inspirational Story

by Griffin Kaye  May 3, 2023

William Regal has had a rollercoaster career of suspensions and terminated contracts. However, one event changed the trajectory of his life.

Hulk Hogan and Sting face off at WCW Starrcade 1997.

Hulk Hogan and Sting – The Mess at WCW Starrcade 1997

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 10, 2023

Hollywood Hulk Hogan and Sting at WCW Starrcade 1997 was the biggest match of either man’s career. And it failed. Terribly. Here’s why.

Daniel Bryan and Kane have a friendship just as entertaining off-camera as on-screen! Who knew that the Big Red Machine and The American Dragon could be such good friends?!

Daniel Bryan and Kane: Unlikely Camaraderie Beyond the Ring

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 25, 2023

As the following stories show, the friendship between Daniel Bryan and Kane was just as absurd off-camera as it was on it!

Wrestling Returns that Left Fans Shocked

13 Wrestling Returns that Left Fans in a Frenzy

by Kevin Tanza  Oct 9, 2025

Discover 13 memorable wrestling returns. From surprise entrances to emotional homecomings, these moments had fans on their feet!

Captain Lou Albano wore many hats over the years! Here, he discusses his role as Mario in The Super Mario Bros. Super Show!

Lou Albano – “My Time on The Super Mario Bros. Super Show!”

by Tim Buckler  Apr 22, 2023

Captain Lou Albano opens up about his time on The Super Mario Bros. Super Show and he almost lost this role due to his facial…

Lucha libre’s high-flying moves and colorful masks hide a darker side—4 wrestlers who paid the ultimate price by losing an eye in a match.

Blindsided: 4 Lucha Wrestlers Who Lost an Eye in a Match

by Javier Ojst  Jul 15, 2025

Lucha libre’s high-flying moves and colorful masks hide a darker side—4 wrestlers who paid the ultimate price by losing an eye in a match.

The Foreman Grill, as it turns out, was a $200 millom mistake for Hulk Hogan!

Foreman Grill: A $200m Mistake for Hulk Hogan!

by JP Zarka  Feb 16, 2023

As far as bad timing goes, the George Foreman Grill is without a doubt something Hulk Hogan has regretted over the years…

Ken Shamrock on a Potential WWE Return, His Dream Opponent

by James Klonowski  Oct 17, 2024

Why hasn’t Ken Shamrock returned to the WWE? Shamrock himself speculates. He also gives his thoughts on a dream match that never came to be.

"Cassandro" Saúl Armendáriz: From overcoming childhood trauma to becoming a revered Lucha Libre legend.

Cassandro The Exótico: From Brutal Beginnings to Lucha Icon

by Evan Ginzburg  Sep 20, 2023

The transformation of Luchador Saúl Armendáriz to cross-trandressing “Exótico” Cassandro was fraught with pain and fame. Learn his hidden story!

Discover some of the most extraordinary matches and magical moments that have graced MSG, illustrating just what it felt like to bear witness to these events!

Unforgettable Wrestling Moments at Madison Square Garden

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 23, 2023

Relive some of the most magnificent matches and magical wrestling moments in New York’s Madison Square Garden (MSG)!

From former champions, Money in the Bank winners, to wrestlers who shared a stable with Hall of Fame superstars, these ten wrestlers had shown promise but were out of a job with WWE before reaching their full potential.

Wrestlers Who Didn’t Quite Reach Their Potential in WWE

by Aaron Young  Dec 31, 2022

From former champs to Money in the Bank winners, these wrestlers showed promise but were out of WWE before reaching their full potential.

"The Flying Greek" Mike Pappas: On left with Andre the Giant (for size!), and over the years.

‘The Flying Greek’ Mike Pappas: The Rey Mysterio of his Day!

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 3, 2023

Each time The Flying Greek Mike Pappas stepped into the ring, he was David trying to conquer a towering Goliath. And we adored him for…

In 1989, Koko B. Ware and WWF executive Jim Troy had a heated confrontation that escalated into a violent hotel brawl during a European tour, leading to ramifications for both men.

Koko B. Ware’s Violent Brawl with a WWE Executive

by Griffin Kaye  Oct 9, 2024

Koko B. Ware’s violent hotel brawl with this WWE executive in 1989 led to surprising consequences, exposing a darker side of the “Birdman.”

Pro Wrestling Stories Senior Author and Historian Bobby Mathews joins Stories with Brisco & Bradshaw to discuss unsung heroes of professional wrestling, such as "The Spoiler" Don Jardine. Throughout the episode, Gerald Brisco and JBL dig into and validate Mathews' research for Pro Wrestling Stories on The Spoiler's rise and lasting influence.

Pro Wrestling Stories’ Bobby Mathews Joins Gerald Brisco and JBL

by JP Zarka  Nov 14, 2025

Pro Wrestling Stories author Bobby Mathews joins WWE Hall of Famers JBL and Gerald Brisco to talk wrestling history on their podcast.

Steel Cage: 11 Memorable Structures and Its History in Wrestling

Steel Cage: 11 Memorable Structures and Its History in Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  May 26, 2022

It’s the most enduring gimmick match in wrestling! Here’s a detailed history of 11 steel cage structures used over the years.

United States Championship | 10 Longest-Reigning Champs

by Griffin Kaye  May 26, 2022

The United States Championship has been held by many memorable legends. Here are the ten longest-reigning US Champions in combined days.

“Sensational” Sherri Martel was just that- utterly sensational. One of the greatest female wrestlers, manager/valets, and personalities ever to step foot in the ring. She was beloved in the industry, and her tragic death in 2007 at only 49 years old was among our most painful losses. But what was she truly like behind the scenes?

Sherri Martel: Secret History of a True Sensation

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 24, 2023

“Sensational” Sherri Martel was just that- utterly sensational. But what was her life truly like outside the ring?

The Big Time Wrestling in San Fransisco wrestling territory thrived initially under the tutelage of Joe Malcewicz (top left) and later Roy Shire (top right) and stars such as Pat Patterson, Ray Stevens, Roddy Piper, Pepper Gomez, booker Red Bastien, Chavo (Sr.) and Mando Guerrero, "Moondog" Lonnie Mayne, "High Chief" Peter Maivia, and a host of others.

Big Time Wrestling in San Francisco | Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Apr 22, 2023

Big Time Wrestling in San Francisco was one of the most profitable NWA territories. However, unfortunate factors would lead to its demise.

The feud between Gail Kim and Awesome Kong in 2007 and 2008 set a new standard not only for women's wrestling but for professional wrestling as a whole.

Gail Kim and Awesome Kong Feud: Redefining Women’s Wrestling

by Javier Ojst  Dec 27, 2023

The feud between Gail Kim and Awesome Kong in 2007 and 2008 set a new standard not only for women’s wrestling but for professional wrestling…

Kurt Von Hess - one of the last ethnic heels from the territory days of wrestling. For him and his family, life was anything but ordinary.

Kurt Von Hess – Lifestyle of an Old-School Ethnic Heel

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 18, 2023

Kurt Von Hess was one of the last ethnic heels of the territory days. For him and his family, life was anything but ordinary!

Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels discuss the behind-the-scenes build-up to their Wrestlemania 14 main event match.

Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels – Surprising Details Behind Their Feud

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

Shawn Michaels wasn’t easy to get along with, and Steve Austin was never satisfied with his championship win at WrestleMania 14. Here’s why.

Jim Cornette and The Midnight Express Attack Baby Doll

Jim Cornette and The Midnight Express Attack Baby Doll

by Jason Lane  Jan 10, 2023

Jim Cornette and The Midnight Express attacking Baby Doll was one of the most vile moments in professional wrestling history.

Sean Waltman (as Ric Flair) and Kevin Nash (as Arn Anderson) spoof the Four Horsemen on September 1st, 1997's Monday Nitro.

Arn Anderson on the nWo Spoof That Hurt His Family

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

A week after Arn Anderson retired, the nWo went on TV to mock him. What followed, to this day, is divisive amongst fans and those…

Hijo del Santo and Blue Demon Jr. are amongst those who popularized Lucha Libre in Mexico, America, and beyond.

Lucha Libre: Challenge of Coming to America in the ’90s

by Javier Ojst  May 1, 2023

An incredible story about the people who brought Lucha Libre into the USA in the ’90s, and the many challenges they faced along the way.

Sami Zayn and Cesaro/Claudio Castagnoli embrace after their match at NXT Arrival, February 27, 2014.

The Respectful Side of Wrestling: Unexpected Friendships

by Alex  Feb 8, 2023

These stories of respect and friendship in wrestling demonstrate the special bonds that exist outside the ring.

Lanny Poffo shares why he appreciates Vince McMahon for what he had done for a lot of future endeavored workers back in 1990.

Vince McMahon Saves the Day for Fired Wrestlers

by Lanny Poffo  May 27, 2021

How my old boss Vince McMahon once saved the day for a lot of workers who had been wished luck on their future endeavors.

Older posts
Page1 Page2 Next →
pro wrestling stories logo
DMCA.com Protection Status

Pro Wrestling Stories - Your daily source of nostalgia and a peek behind the curtain wall of wrestling’s past!

E-mail Us: admin at prowrestlingstories dot com
Business Address: JACE Media LLC, 2501 Chatham Rd #4582, Springfield, Illinois 62704, USA

By using this site, you agree to the legal terms set out in our Disclaimer, Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Disclosure. Learn more about Pro Wrestling Stories' Editorial Policies.

® 2026 Pro Wrestling Stories
  • Choose a Story
  • About
    • About Pro Wrestling Stories
    • Contact
      • E-mail
      • Facebook
      • Instagram
      • Twitter
    • Policies
      • Disclaimer, Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Disclosure Policies
      • Editorial Policies
    • Write For Us
  • Dark Tales
  • Interviews
  • Territories
  • Merch
    • HOMAGE.com – Our favorite in retro wrestling attire! (Use code “PWS” for a nice surprise)
    • PWSTees.com – Your favorite Pro Wrestling Stories, on a tee!
  • Meet The Team
  • More
    • Women Wrestling Pioneers
    • Shoot Fights
    • Lists
    • In Memoriam
    • Podcasts
      • Pro Wrestling Stories Presents (2015)
      • The Genius Cast with Lanny Poffo (2018-19)
      • The Pro Wrestling Stories Podcast (2020)
    • Pro Wrestling Documentaries, Books, and Movie Reviews
    • Today in History
    • Huge Crowd Reactions
    • Ask PWS