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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
    • Stories T-Shirt Collection
    • Logos T-Shirt Collection
    • Homage Tees (Use code “PWS”)
  • 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
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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.

Koko B. Ware and his bird Frankie in happier times.

Koko B. Ware and the Tragedy That Befell His Iconic Bird

by Matt Pender  Jan 20, 2023

The tragic story of Frankie, the beloved bird of professional wrestler Koko B. Ware. What tragedy eventually befell the iconic bird?

The Von Erichs and The Fabulous Freebirds had one of the wildest feuds in wrestling. But did these spectators take things too far?

Von Erichs and Fabulous Freebirds: Secret Tale Behind Their Feud

by Matt Pender  Mar 9, 2023

The Von Erichs and The Fabulous Freebirds had one of the wildest feuds in wrestling. But did these spectators take things too far?

"What if someone murdered the biggest wrestling star on the planet, and his best friend had to navigate the current 'sports entertainment' world to solve the crime?

Living The Gimmick – A Wild Novel About the Dark Side of Wrestling

by JP Zarka  Jun 3, 2023

Introducing LIVING THE GIMMICK by Bobby Mathews, a gripping novel on pro wrestling and its very real dark side!

Past and present: The Jumping Bomb Angels, Noriyo Tateno and Itsuki Yamazaki, in their AJW prime in 1984 and reunited forty years later in 2024. Their high speed Joshi style helped reshape expectations for women’s wrestling and still resonates with fans today. Photo Credit: AJW / The Jumping Bomb Angels. Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

Jumping Bomb Angels: 15 Stories Fans Overlook

by Samantha Schneider-Crouse  Jan 30, 2026

15 overlooked moments that shaped the Jumping Bomb Angels, from AJW dojo trials to their abrupt WWF exit and influence on women’s wrestling.

Davey O’Hannon - Journeyman Brawler With a Ph.D. in Wrestling

Davey O’Hannon – Journeyman Brawler With a Ph.D. in Wrestling

by Javier Ojst  Jun 11, 2021

Davey O’Hannon grew up a fan and never envisioned he’d be with his heroes on the road, in the ring, and soon call some of…

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.

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!

Baffling, brilliant, and unforgettable — explore the wild ride of Larry Zbyszko, from Bruno’s betrayal to “Living Legend” status in wrestling.

Larry Zbyszko: Boo On Me – His Secret Tale

by Benny J. Scala  May 8, 2025

Baffling, brilliant, and unforgettable — explore the wild ride of Larry Zbyszko, from Bruno’s betrayal to “Living Legend” status in wrestling.

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!

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.

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…

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!”

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.

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…

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.

Big Show and Great Khali: a battle of the giants.

Big Show and Great Khali – Their Real-Life Backstage Brawl

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

Great Khali was taller but Big Show was better in the ring, and each was jealous of the other. Here’s how their real-life fight went…

Ron Simmons made history by becoming the first black WCW World Heavyweight Champion! But how did he feel about the company failing him after?

Ron Simmons: Untold Tale Behind Becoming WCW Champion

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 25, 2023

Ron Simmons made history by becoming the first black WCW World Heavyweight Champion! But how did he feel about the company failing him after?

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.

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

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!

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.

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.

The ill-fated collaboration between WWE and Girls Gone Wild "Live From Spring Break" occurred on March 13th, 2003.

WWE Girls Gone Wild PPV: Where Did It All Go Wrong?

by Alexa Pruett  Apr 13, 2023

An ill-fated collaboration between WWE and Girls Gone Wild occurred on March 13th, 2003. It left fans disappointed and $20 out of pocket!

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!

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!

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!

Lita and Trish Stratus compete in WWE's first televised version of this match type on Monday Night Raw, October 23, 2000. This match type became emblematic of the Attitude Era's boundary-pushing content before WWE transitioned to PG programming.

WWE Attitude Era Match Type With a Controversial History

by Alexa Pruett  Oct 9, 2025

During WWE’s Attitude Era, a controversial match pushed boundaries and left a controversial legacy in wrestling.

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…

Kurt Angle, Ric Flair, and Shinsuke Nakamura are amongst those who have had the rare distinction of holding more than one world heavyweight championship at the same time.

15 Times Wrestlers Held Multiple World Championships at Once

by Griffin Kaye  Jun 21, 2023

On occasion, a wrestler will hold more than one world title at the same time. Here are 15 times this rare distinction has been achieved.

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!

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.

Pedro Morales hoists the WWWF Championship, embodying the raw passion of 1970s wrestling at Madison Square Garden.

Pedro Morales: WWE’s Forgotten Champion and Hero

by Evan Ginzburg  Apr 12, 2025

Pedro Morales: WWE’s first Triple Crown Champion and forgotten legend who transcended wrestling’s barriers. Explore his enduring legacy.

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!

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…

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

Roddy Piper (Nada) and Keith David (Frank) in They Live.

They Live Fight Scene: Secret Behind Cinema’s Greatest Brawl

by Tim Buckler  Feb 16, 2023

Roddy Piper and Keith David created magic in just six minutes during their They Live fight scene, and it was all thanks to pro wrestling.

Signed by WWE in 2003, 20-year-old one-legged wonder Zach Gowen got an opportunity of a lifetime. With limited ring experience, Gowen was thrust into storylines and matches with some of the biggest stars in the history of wrestling. But it was too much too soon.

Zach Gowen: His Quick Rise and Spectacular Fall

by Javier Ojst  Apr 19, 2024

One-legged wonder Zach Gowen got an opportunity of a lifetime in WWE with the biggest stars in pro wrestling. But it was too much too…

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…

"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…

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.

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!

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.

Hillbilly Jim on Vince McMahon Spending Recklessly in the '80s

Hillbilly Jim on Vince McMahon Spending Recklessly in the ’80s

by JP Zarka  Dec 22, 2020

Hillbilly Jim shares the story of the time Uncle Elmer couldn’t make a WWF show in the ’80s and how Vince McMahon reacted in an…

The forgotten Pensacola Wrestling territory, known by three names—Southeastern Wrestling, Continental Championship Wrestling, and CWF—left an indelible mark on WWE. Its influence lingers in the ring, shaping the stars and storylines of today’s wrestling world.

A Ghost Story: The Territory That Still Haunts WWE

by Bobby Mathews  Oct 24, 2024

This lost wrestling territory, once known as Southeastern and Continental Championship Wrestling, still haunts WWE in unexpected ways.

Then-president of the NWA, Bruce Tharpe.

Bruce Tharpe – Former NWA President on His Unexpected Journey

by Jim Phillips  Mar 10, 2023

Former NWA President Bruce Tharpe unexpectedly began his pro wrestling journey one afternoon while performing a magic trick backstage.

Ivan Koloff, Boris Zhukov, and Nikolai Volkoff: Among 10 Non-Russian legends who brought the iconic Russian heel persona to life!

10 Non-Russian Wrestlers Who Played Russian Villains

by Griffin Kaye  Apr 17, 2025

These ten wrestlers (all non-Russians) have portrayed the role of a Russian heel to varying success levels over the years.

Dusty Rhodes: Secret History on the American Dream

by Matt Pender  Jul 21, 2023

Dusty Rhodes left an indelible mark on people in and out of wrestling. But what was the American Dream like when the cameras weren’t around?

Sam Fatu—The Tonga Kid—reflects on his journey, from debuting in WWF at 17 to eating Matilda on live TV and tragically witnessing Bruiser Brody’s murder. As part of the Anoa’i dynasty, his legacy continues through his son in WWE.

Wrestling’s Bloodline: Sam Fatu on Family, Tragedy, and Legacy

by Jim Phillips  Oct 18, 2024

Sam Fatu—The Tonga Kid—opens up about his WWE debut at 17, witnessing Bruiser Brody’s murder, and helping cement the Anoa’i bloodline legacy.

The rise and fall of Hercules Hernandez in WWE culminated in a bizarre incident with Sid Vicious at Madison Square Garden in '92.

Sid Vicious and the 1992 Hercules Hernandez No-Sell Incident

by Ash Jacob  Aug 20, 2024

Hercules Hernandez’s WWE journey peaked and faltered in a strange encounter with Sid Vicious at Madison Square Garden in 1992.

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!

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.

Flowing drinks, a private jet, and a shocking brawl with the boss - the wild story of Kofi Kingston vs. Vince McMahon!

Kofi Kingston and Vince McMahon Fight: Secret Details

by JP Zarka  Sep 20, 2024

A casual joke escalated when Kofi Kingston, fueled by liquid courage, challenged Vince McMahon to a fight on an airport tarmac in 2010.

Evelyn Stevens soared in women's wrestling, then vanished. Discover the untold twists behind her championship legacy and fate.

Evelyn Stevens: Wrestling Star’s Path from Gold to Darkness

by Javier Ojst  Sep 15, 2025

Evelyn Stevens soared in women’s wrestling, then vanished. Discover the untold twists behind her championship legacy and fate.

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.

Is that a D chord? The West Texas Rednecks: Barry Windham, Kendall Windham, Curt Hennig, and Bobby Duncum Jr.

West Texas Rednecks and the Story behind the Song “Rap Is Crap”

by JP Zarka  Jul 7, 2022

Curt Hennig created memorable moments part of the short-lived WCW stable, West Texas Rednecks. That is until somebody put an end to it all!

Wrestling trailblazer Sandy Parker, the first Black woman to hold a world championship, broke barriers in the 1960s and ’70s.

Sandy Parker: Wrestling’s First Black Woman Champion

by Alexa Pruett  Nov 13, 2024

Sandy Parker broke barriers as an openly gay Black wrestling champion in the 1960s and ’70s. Discover this pioneer’s secret, untold story.

The earliest Pat Patterson wrestling picture on record.

Accepted: How the First Gay Superstar Changed WWE

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 7, 2022

He was a young man with empty pockets and a dream who took every chance to do what he loved. Here’s our honest review of…

Ultimate Warrior and Sting on Their Broken Relationship

by Matt Pender  May 22, 2025

Ultimate Warrior and Sting started out in the business together in 1985 but never spoke highly of one another after. Here, both men tell all.

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.

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!

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.

Brock Lesnar - His Fight to Become UFC Champion

Brock Lesnar – His Fight to Become UFC Champion

by Javier Ojst  Jul 7, 2022

How Brock Lesnar climbed to the top of the MMA mountain to become UFC Heavyweight Champion despite not being wanted there in the first place.

"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!

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!

Nanjo Singh, who wrestled as "The Hindu with the Cobra Deathlock," was involved in the horrific murder of his wife, Betty.

Wrestler Nanjo Singh and His Wife’s Brutal Murder

by Andy Dujlovic  Apr 10, 2023

Pro wrestling has had many tragedies, but this tragic tale in Canada involving Nanjo Singh and his wife may be one of the lesser known.

Some of my favorite memories of working in WCW include being in the production truck during the botched debut of The Shockmaster and working alongside Jimmy Hart and Hulk Hogan.

MORE Tales from a Former WCW and Turner Corporate Employee

by Richard Steinberg  Jan 10, 2023

Former WCW and Turner corporate employee Richard Steinberg shares 8 more legendary (and unusual!) moments behind the scenes and on the road.

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.

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,…

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.

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.

Things came to a head between Brock Lesnar and Chris Jericho backstage at WWE SummerSlam 2016.

Brock Lesnar and Chris Jericho Fight – What Really Happened

by Harvey Dix  Jan 10, 2023

Brock Lesnar and Chris Jericho got into a heated altercation backstage at WWE SummerSlam 2016. Here’s how it all went down.

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.

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.

On November 17, 1996, Rocky Maivia debuted in the then WWF at Madison Square Garden. Just over a month later, “The Ringmaster” would debut on December 18, 1996. They weren’t exactly “The Rock” or “Stone Cold” Steve Austin just yet. Two debuts. Same year. Different trajectories. One found his voice within months, the other took a bit longer. But by 1998, they’d redefine an entire era.

The Rock and Stone Cold: 1996’s Rejected WWE Plans

by Jon Finkel  Dec 11, 2025

The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin had lackluster debuts in 1996. But soon, they’d find the personas that would redefine an entire era.

Bobo Brazil, Bearcat Wright, and Art Thomas - Champion Pioneers

Bobo Brazil, Bearcat Wright, and Art Thomas – Champion Pioneers

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

In the dark days of segregation, Bobo Brazil, Bearcat Wright, and “Sailor” Art Thomas paved the way for a more inclusive sport.

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!)

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.

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!

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.

Butcher Paul Vachon over the years.

Paul Vachon: Secret Tale of Wrestling’s Beloved ‘Butcher’

by Evan Ginzburg  Mar 5, 2024

The saga of Butcher Paul Vachon was nothing short of legendary. Dive into the riveting secret tale of the beloved, barrel-chested baddie.

Discover how Dave Bautista’s defiance against Vince McMahon in WWE led to a $100k fine and changed his career forever.

Dave Bautista: His $100k Fine for Defying Vince McMahon in WWE

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 16, 2024

Discover how Dave Bautista’s defiance against Vince McMahon in WWE led to a $100k fine and changed his career forever.

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.

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!

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…

Kerry Von Erich laying it in on Terry Taylor at a May 21st, 1988 WCCW taping. Moments like this in the ring with the Von Erich brothers would lead to Taylor waiting backstage, battered, furious, and gripping a broomstick, ready to confront Kevin Von Erich.

Terry Taylor vs. The Von Erichs: When It Turned Ugly

by JP Zarka  May 25, 2025

Terry Taylor recalls the stiff beatings he took from the Von Erichs in WCCW and the moment he nearly fought back backstage.

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.

This montage features Angelo Poffo in his peak form, performing sit-ups, along with a picture of him teaching his boys, Randy (later known to the world as Macho Man Randy Savage) and Lanny (also known as "The Genius" and Leaping Lanny Poffo) the art of wrestling. Artwork: Pro Wrestling Stories.

How Randy Savage’s Dad, Angelo Poffo, Shattered World Record!

by Jon Finkel  Nov 12, 2024

This world record made by Angelo Poffo, the father of Randy Savage, went beyond digits—it highlighted the determination of the Poffo family!

Finn Bálor, Andre the Giant, and Nikolai Volkoff are amongst the many professional wrestlers who have stepped out of the ring and into the world of music videos.

8 Wrestler Music Video Cameos You May Have Missed

by Tim Buckler  May 21, 2025

Music videos brought wrestling into the limelight in the ’80s. Wrestlers have been making unexpected cameos in them ever since!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Life on the road isn't easy for AEW's Paul Wight, formerly known as the Big Show in WWE.

Paul Wight Shares 5 Stories on What Life is Like as a Giant

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

Life hasn’t always been easy for AEW’s Paul Wight (FKA Big Show). As these stories show, there’s a lot more to the giant than meets…

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…

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.

The real-life Von Erich wrestling family in 1980 (left): Jack Adkisson, foreground, who wrestled as Fritz Von Erich, with his sons Kevin, left, David, center, and Kerry, right. The actors who represent them in the movie The Iron Claw (right): Zac Efron (Kevin Von Erich), Harris Dickinson (David Von Erich), Jeremy Allen White (Kerry Von Erich), and Holt McCallany (Fritz Von Erich).

The Iron Claw Movie: A Wrestling Site’s Honest Review

by Alexa Pruett  Apr 2, 2024

Review: ‘The Iron Claw’ movie – A wrestling history site’s honest take on the Von Erichs’ tragedy, starring Zac Efron as Kevin Von Erich.

Sabu wields a steel chair around the time of his infamous 1993 encounter with the Yakuza.

Sabu, FMW, and the Deadly Yakuza Clash That Nearly Ended It All

by Rutvik Keche  May 15, 2025

Wrestling legend Sabu nearly died at the hands of the Yakuza in Japan… until Mike Awesome stepped in and risked everything to save him.

Bobby Fulton reveals The Fantastics’ untold origin: flaming ribs, scaffold wars, and promoter glances that changed wrestling forever. Photo Credit: WWE / Bobby Fulton. Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

Bobby Fulton: The Fantastics, Road Stories, One Phone Call

by Jim Phillips  Feb 3, 2026

Bobby Fulton reveals The Fantastics’ untold origin: flaming ribs, scaffold wars, and promoter glances that changed wrestling forever.

"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…

3 Wrestling Documentaries That Hit The Mark

Wrestling Documentaries That Hit The Mark

by Javier Ojst  Feb 28, 2023

Here are standout wrestling documentaries that have made their mark across three decades that provide highly recommended viewing.

From vintage souvenir fan club packages to the irresistible charm of 1950s board games, unwrap the joy of nostalgia with these twelve timeless classic wrestling Christmas gifts of years past that promise to transport you back to the golden era of wrestling home entertainment and evoke the cherished memories of Christmas mornings past!

Classic Wrestling Christmas Gifts: 12 Timeless Treasures

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Dec 17, 2024

From souvenir fan club packages to 1950s board games, unleash your nostalgia with these 12 classic wrestling Christmas gifts from the past!

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.

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…

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.

"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.

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.

A wrestling great remembered: Terry Funk over the years.

Terry Funk Forever: Secret Journey of a Wrestling Icon

by JP Zarka  Aug 24, 2023

Celebrating Terry Funk: A Texan wrestling icon’s decades-long journey. We remember a man who forged a path that few dared!

The Big Time Wrestling in Detroit (BTW) wrestling territory thrived initially under the tutelage of Harry Light and stars such as Lord Athol Layton, Walter "Killer" Kowalski, Abdullah the Butcher, The Mighty Igor, The Sheik, Dick The Bruiser, "Wild Bull" Curry, Fritz Von Erich, Bobo Brazil, The Grand Wizard of Wrestling, and a host of others.

Big Time Wrestling in Detroit | Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Apr 22, 2023

Big Time Wrestling in Detroit was one of the most successful NWA territories and introduced fans to hardcore wrestling before anyone else.

"Mr. Wonderful" Paul Orndorff.

Paul Orndorff – How a Social Media Movement Saved His Home

by Ron Matejko  Jan 10, 2023

The backstory on how a sputtering fundraiser sprung to life with the support of fans and wrestlers alike to help Paul Orndorff save his home.

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.

Buffalo Jim Barrier pictured with wrestling friends Ron Simmons, Yokozuna, Undertaker, and Rikishi.

Buffalo Jim Barrier: His Shocking, Unsolved Death

by Javier Ojst  Aug 15, 2024

Buffalo Jim Barrier was a fun-loving wrestling promoter, business owner, and Las Vegas mainstay until his grim and unsolved death in Motel 6.

From Paul Wight AKA Big Show, Cody Rhodes, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, and Tom Magee to many unexpected others– Star Trek and wrestling have crossed paths many times over the years!

Star Trek and Wrestling – Times the Two Worlds Met!

by Tim Buckler  Apr 20, 2022

From The Rock and Cody Rhodes to many unexpected others, Star Trek and wrestling have crossed many times over the years!

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.

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.

"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!

From surviving an attack by a fugitive in Mexico City, rescuing children from a bushfire near his home, and unforgettable moments in the ring, journey through the remarkable legacy and secret life of the WWE legend with the flaming head tattoo: Bam Bam Bigelow!

Bam Bam Bigelow: Secret Life of a WWE Legend

by JP Zarka  Mar 19, 2024

Uncover the remarkable legacy and secret life of the WWE legend with the flaming head tattoo: Bam Bam Bigelow!

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.”

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…

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.

Larry Hennig: Much More Than Mr. Perfect’s Dad

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 26, 2023

As revered as “Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig deserves to be, his father Larry Hennig was a legendary champ with an exceptional story of his own!

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…

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.

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.​

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!

Original 'bruiserweight' Les Thornton died at 84 on February 1st, 2019. He was one of the toughest of his day.

Les Thornton: Secret Life of The Original ‘Bruiserweight’

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 15, 2026

Les Thornton was a technical expert and original ‘bruiserweight’ in wrestling who laid the blueprint for future tough-as-nails competitors.

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.

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.

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!

"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.

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.

Sega Genesis - Every Wrestling Game Brought Back!

Ranking Every Wrestling Game on Sega Genesis

by Tim Buckler  Jul 6, 2023

Journey back to the late ’80s and early ’90s as every wrestling game ever released on the Sega Genesis gaming system is brought back to…

The "Two Dudes With Attitudes!" - Shawn Michaels and Diesel.

Shawn Michaels And Diesel – Good Friends, Better Enemies

by Dan Owens  Jun 11, 2021

Shawn Michaels and Diesel (Kevin Nash) met through Rick Steiner. They’d soon help WWE forge a new identity after a rocky start to the ’90s.

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…

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.”

On May 11th, 1988, Manny Fernandez faced off against Invader #3 in Puerto Rico. Decades later, fans are still talking about what happened.

The Strange Case of Manny Fernandez vs. Invader 3

by Javier Ojst  Apr 4, 2024

Two months before Bruiser Brody, something very bizarre occurred in Puerto Rico. This is the strange case of Manny Fernandez versus Invader 3

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.

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.

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…

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.

Lanny Poffo reflects on Dark Side of the Ring’s take on Randy and Liz—and reveals what the cameras didn’t show in their first episode.

Lanny Poffo’s Dark Side of the Ring Confession

by Lanny Poffo  May 7, 2025

Lanny Poffo reflects on Dark Side of the Ring’s take on Randy and Liz—and reveals what the cameras didn’t show in their first episode.

Lucha Libre | 5 Dark Stories With Questions Unanswered

by Javier Ojst  May 1, 2023

Behind the scenes, Lucha Libre (Mexican professional wrestling) has dark stories of murder, the supernatural, and the unforgivable.

Not all was smooth sailing for Vader as he transitioned from Japan into the American style of wrestling in 1992, and opponents were legitimately getting injured. Here's how Harley Race and Sting were brought in to help mentor (and tame) the monster!

How Harley Race and Sting Tamed Monster Vader in WCW

by Javier Ojst  Jan 25, 2023

What happens when you have a 6’5″, 450lbs monster heel that is too rough in the ring? You enlist the help of Sting and Harley…

"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.

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!

Pat Patterson and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.

The Rock, WWE Legends Share Thoughts on Pat Patterson

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Oct 6, 2023

After his passing, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, John Cena, Kurt Angle, and other WWE legends shared their thoughts on Pat Patterson.

The Montreal Screwjob at Survivor Series 1997: Was Vince McMahon alone in screwing Bret Hart? Years on, the truth emerges.

The Montreal Screwjob: REAL Truth on Who Screwed Bret Hart

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 23, 2026

The Montreal Screwjob at Survivor Series 1997: Was Vince McMahon alone in screwing Bret Hart? Years on, the truth emerges.

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.

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.

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…

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.

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!

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!

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…

The Crippler Ray Stevens - One of the greatest wrestlers of all time.

‘The Crippler’ Ray Stevens: Secret History of a Wrestling Heel

by Jim Phillips  Mar 10, 2023

The Crippler Ray Stevens was one of the greatest heels in the history of the wrestling business. Here is his story.

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?

Tito Santana over the years. He was a beloved WWF icon whose remarkable career was marked by success, yet one elusive championship always remained just out of reach.

Tito Santana and the Title That Eluded Him

by Ian Aldous  Oct 10, 2024

Tito Santana’s talent and charisma made him a WWF legend, but one championship always eluded him. Was it bad timing, or something more?

Steroid Use in the WWE: Candid Truth by Hulk Hogan, The Rock and More

Steroid Use in the WWE: Candid Truth by Hulk Hogan, The Rock and More

by Matt Pender  Mar 10, 2023

Steroid Use in WWE was common. Hulk Hogan, The Rock, Lex Luger, The Ultimate Warrior, and other superstars open up on the topic.

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!

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…

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.

The Young Backs as "Generation Me" in TNA.

The Young Bucks in the Impact! Zone – How TNA Let Them Slip Away

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 27, 2025

Before the lights of New Japan and the heights of AEW, The Young Bucks were known as Generation Me in TNA. Here is how TNA…

A fight between Kevin Nash and Roddy Piper took place backstage at WCW’s Slamboree ’97 pay-per-view. Here, both men give their differing takes on what happened.

Kevin Nash and Roddy Piper: Their Heated Backstage Fight!

by Geries Tadros  Mar 3, 2023

A heated fight between Kevin Nash and Roddy Piper took place in 1997. Here, both men give their differing takes on what happened!

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.

Unsung wrestling pioneers, sisters Babs Wingo, Marva Scott, and Ethel Johnson.

Babs Wingo, Marva Scott, and Ethel Johnson: Wrestling’s Unsung

by Ebony Nash  Feb 13, 2023

The amazing, untold stories of Babs Wingo, Marva Scott, and Ethel Johnson, three African American wrestling sisters who paved the way.

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.

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!

2 Plane Crash Tragedies that Changed Wrestling Forever

2 Plane Crash Tragedies that Changed Wrestling Forever

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Feb 20, 2026

1975 was a disastrous year in wrestling. Read how Ric Flair walked away from a plane crash after breaking his back in 3 places, and…

Art Barr was destined to follow in the wrestling footsteps laid down by his father, Sandy, an accomplished wrestler, and his older brother, Jesse. However, the wrestling world would be shaken by his sudden death in his home in Springfield, Oregon, at the young age of 28. Remarkable achievements and controversial moments marked Barr's wrestling journey. Learn the secret tale of this complex wrestling legend.

Art Barr: Secret Tale of a Complex Wrestling Legend

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Feb 20, 2024

Exploring the complex legacy of wrestler Art Barr: from early promise, through controversy, to a transformative impact on Lucha Libre.

Victoria (Lisa Marie Varon) military presses Trish Stratus. The pair had some hard-hitting affairs and always gave their all when they met in the ring.

Victoria (Lisa Marie Varon)’s Stunning Life After WWE

by JP Zarka  Feb 8, 2023

Lisa Marie Varon opens up about Trish Stratus, CM Punk, the WWE locker room, and her former restaurant, The Squared Circle.

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!

Late-great wrestling manager Gary Hart once wrote about the time Dusty Rhodes showcased a talent unbeknownst to some!

Dusty Rhodes and His Fairly Unknown Talent!

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Mar 3, 2023

Late-great wrestling manager Gary Hart once wrote about the time Dusty Rhodes showcased a talent unbeknownst to some!

The WWE Legends Iron Sheik A&E Biography documentary follows the journey of one of wrestling's most legendary heels.

Iron Sheik A&E Biography: An Honest Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 7, 2023

Learn if the Iron Sheik A&E Biography captured his story well in this documentary review by an award-winning wrestling documentarian.

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.

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.

Bruiser Brody, Jim Cornette, Sean Oliver, and Stone Cold Steve Austin – four of the pioneers who helped turn pro wrestling shoot interviews into an unfiltered phenomenon that forever changed how fans see the business.

Pro Wrestling Shoot Interviews: How One Lie Changed Everything

by Tim Buckler  Jul 8, 2025

One vengeful promoter shattered it all. See how that moment sparked the tell-all era of pro wrestling shoot interviews.

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.

Jimmy Savile was made into a celebrity icon in Britain while hiding decades of abuse in the full glare of the celebrity spotlight.

Jimmy Savile: A Predator’s Time in Wrestling

by Griffin Kaye  Feb 7, 2024

Here is the story of Jimmy Savile, his brief foray into the realms of professional wrestling, and his subsequent dark life.

The 2001 WWE Royal Rumble was stacked with superstars such as Jeff Hardy, Kane, The Rock, Undertaker, and Stone Cold Steve Austin (with celebrity surprises, too). It's a match that defines the Attitude Era.

2001 Royal Rumble – A Match That Defines the Attitude Era

by Aditya Modak  Feb 27, 2023

“30 men. Every man for himself. One victor” It’s the 2001 Royal Rumble, a match that will one day define the Attitude Era!

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…

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.

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.

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.

Mick Foley (competing as Cactus Jack) and Terry Funk meet in the finals of Japan’s IWA Kawasaki Dream “King of the Deathmatch” tournament on August 20th, 1995.

Mick Foley Has the Longest Day of His Life

by Javier Ojst  Mar 18, 2023

The King of the Deathmatch tournament spawned explosive brutality, and according to Mick Foley, it was the longest day of his life.

Chad Damiani Conducting an Interview

Chad Damiani: From Wrestling Hotlines to Hollywood

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Feb 22, 2024

Explore the journey of Chad Damiani, from his unexpected entry into the wrestling world with WCW during the Monday Night Wars, to becoming a key…

“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!

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.

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.

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.

Killer Kowalski over the years.

Killer Kowalski: Secret Tales of a Wrestling Legend

by Evan Ginzburg  Apr 22, 2023

Killer Kowalski headlined around the world, but to me, he was more than a great wrestling villain- he was my friend.

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.

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…

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!

The exact moment Triple H (then wrestling as Hunter Hearst Helmsley) botched his Pedigree on enhancement talent Marty Garner during the May 28, 1996 taping of WWF Superstars. Garner would suffer severe neck damage as a result of this move gone wrong.

Triple H’s Botched Pedigree That Nearly Paralyzed a Wrestler

by Richard Thompson  Jul 11, 2025

Triple H’s botched Pedigree nearly paralyzed Marty Garner in 1996. The untold story of wrestling’s most dangerous move gone wrong.

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!

Anything is possible at the Royal Rumble. Here is a selection of wrestlers who saw their careers greatly enhanced after their showing at this yearly fan-favorite event.

6 Wrestlers Who Greatly Benefited from the Royal Rumble

by Joseph Finnegan  Jul 13, 2022

Anything is possible at the Royal Rumble! The following five wrestlers saw their careers greatly enhanced because of this yearly event.

Crash Holly won 22 Hardcore titles and 25+ championships in WWE. But, behind the Attitude Era fun, his story ended in heartbreak at 32. Photo Credit: All Pro Wrestling, WWE. Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

Crash Holly: Rise and Tragic Fall of WWE’s “Super Heavyweight”

by Matt Roberts  Feb 18, 2026

Crash Holly won 22 Hardcore titles and 25+ championships in WWE. But, behind the Attitude Era fun, his story ended in heartbreak at 32.

Bobby Eaton, Jim Cornette, and Dennis Condrey. The Midnight Express were an unstoppable tag team that defined greatness.

Rise and Sad Demise of The Midnight Express

by Bobby Mathews  Mar 8, 2023

The faces in The Midnight Express changed over time, but the train kept rolling. This is the story of the tag team’s rise and tragic…

Lex Luger holding a baby during the height of the Lex Express tour because why not?

Lex Luger and The Failed Lex Express Experiment

by Si Powell  Apr 22, 2025

Hulkamania ran its course and Vince McMahon was on the hunt for a new hero. Cue: Lex Luger and the Lex Express. Oh, how it…

Paul Heyman and Tommy Dreamer.

Tommy Dreamer and His Terrifying Plan to Murder Paul Heyman

by Marc Madison  Jan 18, 2024

The devotion Tommy Dreamer had toward ECW took a sinister turn: he plotted to murder his mentor Paul Heyman before taking things further.

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.

Angelina Love (left) and Lexie Fyfe (right, with a camel clutch on Daffney, rest her soul) navigated the barren times of women's wrestling and helped pave the way for today's stars.

Strength in Numbers: Roots of a Women’s Wrestling Revolution

by Ian Aldous  Mar 20, 2023

Learn how two champion female wrestlers overcame the struggles of women’s wrestling and helped to revolutionize the sport.

Owen Hart Talks About His Career

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

OWEN HART talks about his career: how he was treated after the ‘Montreal Screwjob’; and the dreams he sadly would not live to see.

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!

"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.

Dustin Rhodes: Always a "Natural."

Dustin Rhodes: His Secret Life Behind the Paint

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Feb 26, 2023

Being the son of Dusty Rhodes, naysayers would test his toughness. In the words of Dustin Rhodes, “There were many fights along the way!”

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!

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.

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.

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!

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…

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.

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.

Silver King made an impact in the squared circle and on the big screen as Ramses in the movie Nacho Libre.

Silver King: Questions After Death of Nacho Libre Star Luchador

by Javier Ojst  Aug 18, 2025

He played Ramses in Nacho Libre and wowed fans as a luchador in Mexico. Sadly, Silver King would die in the ring, leaving many questions.

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.

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.

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.

"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.

The dramatic transformation of Billy Jack Haynes: from ’80s musclebound wrestling star to a man now facing the most serious accusations of his life.

Billy Jack Haynes: From WWE Hero to Accused Killer

by Griffin Kaye  Jul 7, 2025

Once an ’80s WWE star, Billy Jack Haynes hid a world of trauma, conspiracy, and murder claims. Discover the shocking truth behind the legend.

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…

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.

While many wrestlers have donned face makeup over the years, we dive into the stories of seven face-painted pioneers who wore war paint to the ring, even if there were a few mishaps and dangerous conditions for some!

Wrestlers Who Made Face Paint Fashionable!

by Tim Buckler  Jan 6, 2023

These wrestling pioneers wore face paint to battle, despite the surprising mishaps and dangerous conditions many faced for doing so!

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.

Are WWE and AEW working together?

AEW and WWE Conspiracy: Are They Working Together?

by Tim Buckler  Nov 7, 2019

“There’s an AEW and WWE conspiracy going on, bro!” When Vince Russo proclaimed AEW might be in bed with WWE, we couldn’t help but ponder…

The World Wrestling Association (WWA Indianapolis) wrestling territory thrived under the tutelage of Dick The Bruiser (after purchasing the NWA Indianapolis territory from Jim Barnett with Wilbur Snyder in 1964) and stars such as Baron von Raschke, Big Moose Cholak, Wilbur Snyder, The Great Wojo, Bobby Heenan, Scott Steiner, The Valiant Brothers (Johnny, Jimmy, and Jerry), The Assassins (Joe Tomasso and Guy Mitchell), Ox Baker, The Fabulous Kangaroos, and a host of others.

World Wrestling Association: WWA Indianapolis Wrestling Territory

by Jim Phillips  Apr 22, 2023

World Wrestling Association (WWA Indianapolis) was a territory created out of rebellion with a legacy going back to the creation of the NWA.

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.

Magnum TA had just come back from a near-fatal car accident when he made some comments about Tully Blanchard. Blanchard came out and sucker-punched Magnum, which caused Dusty Rhodes to come out with a baseball bat and beat Tully Blanchard to near death on live television.

Dusty Rhodes and Tully Blanchard Attempted Murder on Live TV

by Jason Lane  Jan 10, 2023

A close look at the events causing Dusty Rhodes to come out with a baseball bat and beat Tully Blanchard to near death on live…

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…

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!

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…

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.

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…

"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…

Dustin Rhodes and Raven Illustrate Why Wrestling is an Art Form

Dustin Rhodes and Raven Illustrate Why Wrestling is an Art Form

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jul 7, 2022

Pro wrestling is a ride from grief to awe and anger to tears, and according to Dustin Rhodes and Raven, it’s one of the world’s…

Pro Wrestling Stories reviews Bob Backlund: From All-American Boy to Professional Wrestling’s World Champion.

Bob Backlund Book: An Honest Take

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 3, 2023

Bob Backlund covers it all in his book. Though is it worth the time investment? We cover the good, bad, and ugly, sharing our honest…

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.

Bow down to the queen! Aja Kong has ruled the wrestling world since her debut at just 16 years old.

Secret Story Behind the Unforgettable Aja Kong

by Alexa Pruett  May 17, 2023

Aja Kong has made a lasting impact on wrestling (even influencing the creation of Big Van Vader)! But details of her life might surprise you.

"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?

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  Jan 21, 2026

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

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 Edge, Matt Hardy, and Lita love triangle storyline very much incorporated elements of real-life.

5 Wrestling Feuds Where There Was Real-Life Heat

by Joseph Finnegan  Jun 29, 2023

Some of the most legendary feuds in wrestling involved wrestlers who had real-life animosity outside of the ring. Here are 5 such examples.

Gerald Brisco consoles Brock Lesnar backstage at WrestleMania 19.

Brock Lesnar Nearly Plunged WrestleMania 19 into Tragedy

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

Brock Lesnar, Kurt Angle, and others talk about the spectacular botch that nearly plunged WrestleMania 19 into tragedy.

Paul Orndorff: Multi-sport athlete excelling in football, track, and bodybuilding before his Hall of Fame professional wrestling career.

Paul Orndorff: Multi-Sport Star Before Wrestling

by Ron Matejko  Nov 18, 2025

From street poverty to athletic elite: Paul Orndorff’s journey through football, track, and bodybuilding before becoming WWE’s Mr. Wonderful.

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!”

Jerry Lawler, Bruno Sammartino, and Chris Jericho are amongst the wrestling legends who have had the unfortunate experience of having their wrestling championship belt come up missing or stolen. Many have never been recovered.

Mystery of Missing Wrestling Championship Belts

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 25, 2023

Over the years, these wrestling championship belts have either been stolen or come up missing. Many have never been recovered.

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…

Brian Cage, G.L.O.W.'s Sunny The California Girl, and Bill Alfonso were on the receiving end of these memorable wrestling ribs and road stories!

7 Unforgettable Wrestling Ribs and Road Stories

by Jim Phillips  Mar 10, 2023

Wrestling ribs can be used as teaching tools and as tests of heart and dedication. Here is a collection of seven of our favorite tales.

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…

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!

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!

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

Bret Hart and Goldberg - The Kick That Ruined Bret's Career

Bret Hart and Goldberg – The Kick That Ruined Bret’s Career

by JP Zarka  Apr 26, 2023

It was supposed to be a moment for Bret Hart and Goldberg to shine. Instead, it turned into a match with life-long consequences.

Legends of professional wrestling: Bruno Sammartino and Freddie Blassie.

Bruno Sammartino and Freddie Blassie – Too Real for the Mob

by Bobby Mathews  Mar 20, 2024

Shocking details on how a match between Bruno Sammartino and Freddie Blassie led to a frightening confrontation with the mob in New Jersey.

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.

A young B Brian Blair and the cover of his new book, Truth Bee Told.

Truth Bee Told: B Brian Blair on Life, Career, and Family Tragedy

by Ian Douglass  Jun 3, 2023

From the highs to his darkest moments in life, B Brian Blair provides clarity to many unanswered questions in his latest book Truth Bee Told.

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.

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.

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?

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!

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!

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…

The tale of The Undertaker in WWE kicks off at Survivor Series 1990, a pay-per-view defined by two debuts (but we’re here to talk about the good one, thankfully)! Here's how at 26, he became the then-youngest WWE Champion a year after his terrifying debut.

Rise of The Undertaker: Terrifying Debut and First Year in WWE

by Cameron Shank  Feb 20, 2023

Here’s how at 26, The Undertaker became the then-youngest WWE Champion a year after his monumental, terrifying debut!

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.

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!

"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.

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!

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!

"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.

Vince McMahon was clearly unimpressed with some of David Letterman's questions.

Vince McMahon vs. Late Night Talk Shows: An Unlikely Rivalry!

by Tim Buckler  Jan 10, 2023

As these talk show experiences show, the personality of Vince McMahon doesn’t tend to gel well outside of the WWE universe!

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.

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…

A glimpse into the life of Bobby “The Brain” Heenan: Cherished moments with his wife Cynthia and daughter Jessica during her childhood, a proud father on Jessica’s wedding day, and a fun candid capturing the lighthearted spirit of the Heenan family.

BrainChild: Secret Life of Bobby Heenan’s Daughter

by Benny J. Scala  Nov 1, 2024

Jessica Solt, daughter of wrestling icon Bobby “The Brain” Heenan, shares intimate details of her father’s life and career. From his early days in the…

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.

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.

The ever wonderful and one of a kind, Lou Albano.

Captain Lou Albano Opens Up About His Wild Career

by Evan Ginzburg  Apr 22, 2023

Captain Lou Albano is forever etched in our memory. Here are his stories on wrestling, acting, drugs, and rock and roll.

"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!

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.

Shawn Michaels and Triple H - A Feud In (and Out) of the Ring

Shawn Michaels and Triple H – A Feud In (and Out) of the Ring

by Joseph Finnegan  Aug 26, 2025

The story of Shawn Michaels and Triple H is one where their in-ring storyline was very much inspired by incidents in real life. 

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.

Verne Gagne's AWA Tag Team Challenge Series kicked off with lingerie-clad cheerleaders. It all went downhill from there!

Revealed: The Untold Story of AWA Team Challenge Series

by Javier Ojst  Sep 25, 2024

To counter the growing dominance of the WWF, AWA had to do something different. Thus, the AWA Team Challenge Series was born.

Edge, Trish Stratus, John Cena, and more share memorable stories from their time on the road!

Dual Identities: Secret Life of Wrestlers on the Road

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Feb 13, 2023

Shocking tales from Edge, Trish Stratus, John Cena, and more: the most interesting wrestling stories take place away from the public eye!

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.

Duane Gill over the years. From left to right: working as an enhancement talent on WWF Superstars of Wrestling in ’92, as the beloved WWF Light Heavyweight Champion Gillberg, and in recent years.

Gillberg: Rise and Fall of Wrestling’s Beloved Underdog

by Javier Ojst  Oct 29, 2024

When the industry seemingly left him behind, Duane Gill reinvented himself as Gillberg. This is the story of his unlikely journey to stardom.

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.”

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.

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 Can-Am Connection, featuring Tom Zenk and Rick Martel, was poised to become one of WWE’s most iconic tag teams of the 1980s. However, simmering tensions behind the scenes ultimately led to their downfall.

The Can-Am Connection: A WWE Cautionary Tale of Greed

by Matt Pender  Oct 11, 2024

Tom Zenk and Rick Martel’s Can-Am Connection was an ’80s WWE tag team with big potential. However, greed and betrayal tore the team apart.

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!

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 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!

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

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.

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…

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.’

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…

Andre the Giant - 16 Unforgettable Tales Told By His Friends

Andre the Giant – 16 Unforgettable Tales Told By His Friends

by Matt Pender  Feb 7, 2023

Here are sixteen of the most memorable stories on the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” Andre the Giant, from the people who knew him best.

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.

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.

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!”

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…

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.

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.

George Pantas – One of professional wrestling’s unsung.

George Pantas – The Story of an Unsung Wrestling Hero

by Dan Sebastiano  Sep 11, 2021

George Pantas is an important name in wrestling. You may have even seen his contributions to the business without even realizing!

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…

“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.

Hulk Hogan and Steve Austin never had a one-on-one match despite Vince McMahon planning for it to happen. Here, in their own words, both men give their reasons why it never happened.

Hulk Hogan vs Steve Austin: Startling Reasons it Never Happened

by JP Zarka  Jul 14, 2023

Vince McMahon planned for the dream match between Hulk Hogan and Steve Austin. Discover the startling reasons why it never took place!

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

AJ Styles debuts at 2016's WWE Royal Rumble.

AJ Styles and His Unlikely Journey to WWE

by James Klonowski  Sep 6, 2021

The story behind his unlikely journey to WWE, who convinced Vince to sign him, and who AJ Styles’ theme music was originally intended for.

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!

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!

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.

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.

Ric Flair and Jack Veneno during their controversial match in 1982.

Ric Flair and Jack Veneno Title Change The NWA Won’t Accept

by Javier Ojst  Apr 28, 2023

Ric Flair and Jack Veneno, Dominican Republic’s unrecognized NWA champ. What lengths have the media gone to protect their national hero?

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

The heel turn and chair shots heard 'round the world! Fans were stunned by Larry Zbyszko and his merciless treatment of his mentor and friend, Bruno Sammartino, in 1980.

Bruno Sammartino and Larry Zbyszko: A Heel Turn For the Ages

by Javier Ojst  Aug 26, 2023

When Larry Zbyszko turned his back on Bruno Sammartino, it incited one of the greatest rivalries and heel turns in wrestling history!

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.

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…

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…

Verne Gagne over the years.

Verne Gagne and the Rise and Fall of the AWA

by Jim Phillips  Apr 22, 2023

From his storied sports career to the AWA, rumors about Hulk Hogan, and troubling final days, this is the unforgettable story of Verne Gagne.

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!

Vince McMahon is not one to let his guard down. However, there was one night in the '90s where he got wild with wrestlers on the road!

Vince McMahon and His Wild Night Out in the ’90s

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

Vince McMahon doesn’t let his guard down often. However, just before drug testing was implemented in the WWF, Vince got wild (and then some)!

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!

With decades of ring experience, Sabu is a game-changer and a legend of the ring.

Sabu Is Gone, But His Pain-Filled Legacy Remains

by Javier Ojst  May 15, 2025

Remembering Sabu, who bared his heart about his uncle (The Original Sheik), Ric Flair, Vince McMahon, and the death of his girlfriend.

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.

In 1989, Ric Flair and Terry Funk had the unenviable task of trying to top the legendary Flair versus Steamboat trilogy of matches. They did that (and then some)!

Ric Flair and Terry Funk: A Feud to Remember

by Javier Ojst  Jan 25, 2023

WCW had a monumental task on their hands, and Ric Flair and Terry Funk were forced to answer the age-old question — how do you…

From the legendary Bruno Sammartino to the charismatic Santino Marella to, yes, even the immortal Hulk Hogan, these Italian professional wrestlers have not only dominated the ring but also captivated the hearts of fans worldwide. From the early days of the business to today, uncover the secret journeys and lasting legacies of twenty Italian professional wrestling icons.

20 Italian Pro Wrestlers Who Left a Lasting Legacy

by Marc Madison  Nov 14, 2024

From Bruno Sammartino, Gorilla Monsoon, and yes, even Hulk Hogan, uncover the secret journeys of 20 Italian professional wrestling icons!

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.

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!

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 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.

Carnival wrestling match in progress (circa late 1800s): Wrestlers grappling while spectators gather to witness the athletic show. This format became the foundation for all professional wrestling exhibitions across America. The “worked” nature of these matches, combining legitimate holds with predetermined outcomes, established the entertainment model that professional wrestling still uses today.

Roddy Piper Reveals Wrestling’s Hidden Origins Story

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Feb 1, 2026

Roddy Piper reveals wrestling’s true origins in a rare interview. Discover how carnival wrestlers created the formula still used today.

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.

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.

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.

Glacier - Eric Bischoff's Frigid (and Costly) Failure

Glacier in WCW: Secret History on Eric Bischoff’s Frigid Failure

by Javier Ojst  Apr 22, 2025

With hundreds of thousands of dollars going into his WCW arrival, Glacier (Ray Lloyd) and Eric Bischoff were doomed from the start.

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.

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!

"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.

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…

Bruno Sammartino and Stan Hansen – The Botch That Broke Bruno

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

In 1976, Stan Hansen changed the career of Bruno Sammartino forever. Here, both men discuss this near-tragic incident.

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.

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.

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?

Vince Russo and Ed Ferrara were in charge of WCW for three months in 1999.

Vince Russo and Ed Ferrara – 3 Months of Power in WCW

by Jordan Talbot  Jan 10, 2023

In 1999, WCW signed the 2 men looked at as the creative force behind WWE’s Attitude Era: Vince Russo and Ed Ferrara. But was the…

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…

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.

When Triple H made a controversial joke about Lilian Garcia, it did not sit well with Mick Foley, who was watching from home.

Monday Night SmackDown! How a Volcano Forced Big Changes

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 20, 2023

This natural disaster added further problems to an already challenging time on the road for the Monday Night RAW crew in 2010!

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.

From a high school senior to WWE’s Luke Harper and finally AEW’s Brodie Lee, these three snapshots capture the incredible journey of a man who left an indelible mark in and out of the ring. His evolution as a performer was only surpassed by his legacy of kindness, loyalty, and devotion to family.

13 Wrestling Legends Share Thoughts on Brodie Lee

by Aarij Arifeen  Sep 24, 2024

Brodie Lee, AKA Luke Harper in WWE, left a lasting legacy. 13 wrestling legends share heartfelt tributes to honor the man, Jonathan Huber.

King Booker T as WWE World Heavyweight Champion in 2006 (left), and Booker T during his TNA debut at Genesis 2007 (right).

Booker T and his Bitter Departure from WWE in 2007

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

A switch to WWE Raw in the summer of 2007 reignited Booker T, but he soon found himself embroiled in a scandal that would cost…

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!

Ashley Massaro | Her Tragic Story a Result of WWE Neglect?

Ashley Massaro: Her Tragic Story a Result of WWE Neglect?

by Javier Ojst  Apr 22, 2023

On May 16th, 2019, Ashley Massaro was found unresponsive in her Long Island, New York home. Later, she would be pronounced dead just ten days…

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…

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.

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!

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…

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.

Scott Hall struggled in the aftermath of a traumatic incident that took place in January 1983.

The Traumatic Incident that Changed Scott Hall’s Life

by Luke Marcoccia  Sep 24, 2025

The personal journey of Scott Hall was not always glamorous, and his life was never the same after this traumatic January 1983 incident.

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!

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…

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.

The Great Muta saves the day with his green mist at the inaugural Halloween Havoc in 1989. [photo courtesy of the WWE Network]

Halloween Havoc – The Very Best (and Worst!) Moments

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jul 7, 2022

Had it not been for the quick thinking of The Great Muta, Halloween Havoc likely never would have made it beyond its first year!

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.

Omni Coliseum | 11 Unforgettable Wrestling Moments at The Omni

The Omni Coliseum: 11 Shocking Wrestling Moments

by Jason Lane  Jan 10, 2023

It wasn’t the most perfect venue, but it sure did pack a lot of wrestling history! Here are 11 wrestling moments that are hard to…

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?

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.

Bob Backlund, Jerry Lawler, and Ric Flair—wrestling legends who tried their hand in politics. Though each took a shot at public office, their journeys highlight the unpredictable and often ruthless nature of the political world.

7 Wrestlers Turned Politicians: Who Succeeded, Who Failed?

by Bobby Mathews  Oct 18, 2024

Sometimes wrestling in the political ring is harder than a match in the squared circle.  These 7 wrestlers found out firsthand!

WCW Big Bang - The Pay-Per-View That Never Was

WCW Big Bang – The Pay-Per-View That Never Was

by Cory Scullion  Jan 10, 2023

One of the most fascinating ‘what if?’ scenarios in wrestling surrounds the demise of WCW and the advertised May 2001 WCW Big Bang PPV.

Triple H and Stephanie McMahon: From storyline to secret real-life romance.

Triple H & Stephanie McMahon: From Storyline to Secret Romance

by Aarij Arifeen  Jan 16, 2024

The love story of Triple H and Stephanie McMahon grew in Vince’s shadow, evolving into a real-life power couple with a controversial journey.

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.

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…

“Sweet and Sour” Larry Sweeney (1981–2011), pictured in and out of character. A gifted performer whose brilliance lit up indie wrestling until tragedy struck.

Larry Sweeney: Wrestling’s Sweet and Sour Tragedy

by Evan Ginzburg  May 21, 2025

“Sweet and Sour” Larry Sweeney had it all. But, his tragic fall left wrestling with one of its greatest lost legends and “What ifs?”

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…

These wrestling matches left wrestlers with permanent scars!

Permanent Scars: Tales of Life-Altering Wrestling Matches

by Griffin Kaye  Jan 16, 2026

Wrestlers sacrifice their bodies for their passion and pursuit of in-ring glory. These scars are proof of battles waged and won–or lost.

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.

From Parts Unknown? Take a trip back to the pro wrestling world of the '80s and prior as we reveal wrestlers' real (and kayfabe) hometowns!

Secret Billed Hometowns of 8 Old-School Wrestlers

by Benny J. Scala  Mar 9, 2023

From Parts Unknown? Take a trip back to the pro wrestling world of the ’80s and prior as we reveal wrestlers’ real (and kayfabe) hometowns!

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…

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.

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!

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…

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!

For Lanny Poffo, it was an honor to sit at the broadcasting booth alongside Ian Riccaboni and Caprice Coleman of Ring of Honor.

Lanny Poffo on His Close-Call with Humiliation in Ring of Honor

by Lanny Poffo  Apr 22, 2023

After a stint with Ring of Honor in 2019, Lanny Poffo opened up about how one roster member saved him from a chaotic, embarrassing situation!

Harley Race was considered by many the legitimate toughest man to grace the squared circle. But what was he like behind the scenes?

Harley Race: 15 Untold Stories of Wrestling’s Toughest Icon

by Matt Pender  Nov 8, 2024

Discover 15 untold tales of Harley Race, one of wrestling’s toughest icons, whose legendary strength and resilience defined an era.

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.

Clowns, Vikings, cavemen, mummies, mercenaries, astronauts… you name it, Titanes en el Ring had them (and much more)!

Titanes en el Ring – Argentina’s Crazy Wrestling Show

by Javier Ojst  Jan 17, 2024

The story of Titanes en el Ring. WWE may have perfected merging wrestling with entertainment, but they certainly weren’t the first to do it!

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.

While the iconic showdown between Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant at the Pontiac Silverdome in front of 93,173* screaming fans (brother) was a unique attraction, it was certainly not their first rodeo. And outside of the ring, Andre hardly made it easy for Hogan. This is the story of their storied 8-year feud.

Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant: Secret History Behind Feud

by JP Zarka  Feb 16, 2023

Outside of the ring, Andre the Giant hardly made it easy for Hulk Hogan. This is the true story of their storied 8-year feud.

"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.

Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn have a brotherhood that runs deep.

Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn: A Tale of Brotherhood

by Marc Madison  Mar 2, 2023

Through miles of travel, injuries, and memorable performances, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn realize one thing: they can rely on each other!

Edge and Christian talk about the time they found themselves in Wrestlers Court. [Photo: WWE]

Edge and Christian – How They Ended Up in Wrestlers Court

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

The time when Edge and Christian got heat with the boys and found themselves called into Wrestlers Court for playing nice with the writers.

Jon Moxley | The Liberation of Dean Ambrose - Why He Left WWE

Jon Moxley | The Liberation of Dean Ambrose – Why He Left WWE

by JP Zarka  Dec 7, 2020

In his first interview after WWE, Jon Moxley gave all the details on what lead to him leaving and why he’s at the apex of…

Paul Orndorff, Vader, and backstage witnesses describe the messy backstage fight that led to the departure of Vader from WCW in 1995.

The Messy Fight Between Paul Orndorff and Vader in WCW

by Matt Pender  Jun 25, 2023

In ’95, Paul Orndorff and Vader got into a heated argument backstage, leading to an all-out fight. It was an absolute mess!

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.

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…

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!

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!

Bob Roop (left) and Ron Garvin (right).

Ron Garvin and Bob Roop: How Stealing a Title Led to Rebellion

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 13, 2024

When CM Punk did it in WWE, it was an angle. but when Ron Garvin walked out with the wrestling title in Knoxville, it was…

"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!

L.A. Park and La Parka.

La Parka: A Fight Over a Name Ends in Tragedy

by Javier Ojst  Feb 13, 2023

In 1996, a wrestler’s fight to use another luchador’s name ended when the second La Parka tragically died.

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.

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.

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.

Chris Jericho and John Cena share the heartwarming tale of their time together in Alaska.

Chris Jericho on John Cena’s Unexpected Rescue in Alaska

by JP Zarka  Jan 25, 2023

John Cena tucking Chris Jericho into bed at night in cozy Alaska sounds like the stuff of fan fiction. However, this wasn’t fantasy!

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.

The nWo logo was born in a Disney backlot, designed in one hour by a then-unknown artist named Jenni Sloan. This is the story WCW never told ...until now.

nWo Logo: Secret Disney Origins WCW Never Shared

by JP Zarka  May 23, 2025

The nWo logo was born in a Disney backlot, designed in one hour by an unknown artist. This is the story WCW never told …until…

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!

“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.

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.

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.

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…

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!

In 1986, tempers flared between Adrian Adonis and Dan Spivey, and Adonis almost lost his life as a result.

Adrian Adonis and Dan Spivey Near-Deadly Locker Room Brawl

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

In 1986, wrestler Adrian Adonis picked the wrong person to mess with, and according to witnesses, Dan Spivey almost ended Adonis’s life.

Chris Candido Story | Deception and Redemption Before Death

Chris Candido Story: Deception and Redemption Before Death

by JP Zarka  Mar 19, 2024

Every rumor was addressed, and no page was left unturned. This is the story of Chris Candido, as told by his brother, Jonny.

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?

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.

Professional wrestling and metal music have a unique marriage. Lemmy of Motörhead, Alice Cooper, Corey Taylor of Slipknot and Stone Sour, and Ozzy Osbourne are among the rock legends who have become involved with the show over the years.

7 Times Heavy Metal and Wrestling Rocked Together

by Conor McCorkindale  Nov 13, 2022

Heavy metal and wrestling mesh perfectly. Here are seven times metal and professional wrestling rocked together over the years!

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.

Sunnyside Garden Arena - A Snapshot to Wrestling's Past

Sunnyside Garden Arena – A Snapshot to Wrestling’s Past

by Arthur Nager  Aug 10, 2021

Relive what it was like to experience professional wrestling at the storied Sunnyside Garden Arena in Queens, New York, in the 1970s.

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.

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!

Wrestlers are very proud of the personas they embrace. The most devoted will even stay in character in public. These grappling greats could have, and often did, cross the line to protect their gimmicks in and out of the wrestling ring!

Extreme Cases of Wrestlers Protecting Their Gimmicks

by Griffin Kaye  Apr 8, 2025

These grappling greats could have, and often did, cross the line to protect their gimmicks in and out of the wrestling ring!

European tours were always great for camaraderie as it was one of the few times wrestlers could come together on the tour bus and throw a few back (from left to right: Henry Godwinn, Kevin Nash, Triple H, Gerald Brisco, Undertaker, Phineas Godwinn/Mideon, Steve Austin, Scott Hall, Shawn Michaels, Sean Waltman and Paul Bearer up front).

Kevin Nash: WWE Travel Pranks, Backstage Secrets

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 1, 2025

Kevin Nash describes why it was never smart for wrestlers to sleep on a flight, the implied reason Savio Vega was fired from WWE, and…

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! 

Things got ugly when the Nasty Boys and Ken Shamrock had a run-in at a hotel back in 1990.

The Nasty Boys and Ken Shamrock Hotel Incident

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

When The Nasty Boys felt numbers were in their favor, they were not afraid to confront anyone. On this night, Ken Shamrock was no exception!

Stan Hansen refused to drop the AWA World Championship belt to Nick Bockwinkel, something he was ordered to do by Verne Gagne and the AWA.

Stan Hansen and the AWA Championship Belt Scandal

by Javier Ojst  Nov 23, 2023

What Stan Hansen did to the AWA World Heavyweight Championship belt after becoming champion is forever a part of wrestling lore.

"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.

Paul Jones went around the world as a lovable babyface but found his fortune when he turned heel in Florida.

Paul Jones – Wrestling Territory Star ‘No. 1’

by Bobby Mathews  Jul 2, 2021

When the world saw Paul Jones, he was a shell of his former self. Before becoming a legendary manager, he had a standout wrestling career.

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!

Del "The Patriot" Wilkes

Del “The Patriot” Wilkes Overcomes Struggles Before Death

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

From professional football, to wrestling, and developing a 200-pill-a-day addiction, this is the story of Del “The Patriot” Wilkes.

The Legend of Katie Vick, featuring Kane and Triple H.

Katie Vick: WWE’s Controversial Attitude Era Angle

by Benny J. Scala  Oct 9, 2025

A look back at WWE’s 2002 Katie Vick storyline: cultural context, audience reaction, and how it led to today’s family-friendly programming.

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.

Dick Murdoch over the years.

Dick Murdoch – Always Controversial, Always Himself

by Javier Ojst  Feb 24, 2023

Dick Murdoch was always ready for action in (and out) of the ring. But has his suspected ties outside of wrestling tarnished his legacy?

Vince McMahon and His Chaotic Injury at 2005's Royal Rumble

Vince McMahon and His Chaotic Injury at 2005’s Royal Rumble

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 3, 2025

Chaotic endings make great television. The unplanned Vince McMahon injury suffered at the 2005 Royal Rumble is a perfect example of this!

In the world of professional wrestling, Al Perez had it all. He was the favorite of many greats in the business and was always on the cusp of greatness, though he never quite got there. A lot of that was his undoing.

Al Perez – A Wrestling Career That Could Have Been More

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 10, 2023

Al Perez had it all. He was many wrestlers’ favorite and on the cusp of greatness, but never quite got there. A lot of that…

Paramedics tend to Triple H after his injury took place.

Triple H’s 4 Near-Fatal Injuries That Almost Ended It All

by Braeden Farrell  Nov 7, 2024

Triple H faced 4 injuries throughout his career, each nearly career-ending. Discover how he persevered through each life-threatening ordeal.

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!

Abraham Lincoln preparing to send Jack Armstrong all the way to hell! Chokeslam! | The History of This Iconic Wrestling Move

Chokeslam! Secret History of an Iconic Wrestling Move

by Tim Buckler  Feb 9, 2023

A look back at the history of the chokeslam maneuver where we try to answer some age-old questions such as: Did Abraham Lincoln invent it?

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!

Remember the name: "Act Yasukawa"! Although her photo might not scream tough wrestler at first glance, she is one of the most resilient ever to lace up a pair of boots!

Ghastly Match Incident: The Legit Nightmare Beat-Down in Japan

by Javier Ojst  Apr 5, 2024

Read the gripping tale of The Ghastly Match Incident, a 2015 Stardom bout between Act Yasukawa and Yoshiko that went terribly wrong!

Undertaker and Mick Foley battle it out atop the Hell in a Cell moments before all hell breaks loose.

Undertaker and Mick Foley Hell in a Cell Match: The Untold Story

by JP Zarka  Jun 28, 2023

Mick Foley and Undertaker explain what really happened during their legendary 1998 Hell in a Cell match, and the inspiration behind the fall.

Left: Shaquille O’Neal makes his AEW debut at Daily’s Place in Jacksonville in 2021. Center: Elvis Presley performs at Crisler Arena just months before his planned match with Jerry Lawler in 1977. Right: David Arquette celebrates his controversial WCW World Championship victory at Thunder in 2000. Three moments that showcase wrestling’s evolving relationship with celebrity involvement across five decades.

10 Best Celebrity Matches (Plus 6 We’d Rather Forget!)

by John Harris  Jan 15, 2025

From Elvis nearly facing Jerry Lawler to 10 of the best and 6 we’d rather forget, discover wrestling’s most unforgettable celebrity matches!

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…

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.

Wrestling Union - Failed Attempts and a History of Blackballing by WWE

Wrestling Union – Failed Attempts and a History of Blackballing by WWE

by Javier Ojst  Apr 21, 2023

Many professional wrestlers have attempted to form a wrestling union but were met with failure. Some were blackballed completely.

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.

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…

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!

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.

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)!

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.

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…

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!

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…

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!

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.

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!

From carnival strongmen who could hoist anvils with their teeth to zebra-striped monsters, “Mr. America” body idols, Native headliners, hypnotists, and more, discover 25 wild 1950s TV gimmicks that rewired what wrestling could be and turned early television into must-see viewing for families across America. Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

25 Wild 1950s Wrestling TV Gimmicks That Changed the Business

by Ted Holland  Feb 5, 2026

Discover 25 transformative 1950s professional wrestling gimmicks that shaped television and changed the business forever.

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.

"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!

“We have contact!” Stan Hansen dishes out stiff punishment on Johnny Gunn (Tom Brandi). His hard-hitting style was legendary.

The Day Stan Hansen Got a Taste of His Own Medicine

by Matt Pender  Sep 13, 2024

Stan Hansen was known for his stiff strikes and hard-hitting style, but one night in Japan, he was given a taste of his own medicine!

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…

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!

In the summer of 2016, tensions between Dave Bautista and Booker T reached a boiling point, leading to an unforgettable backstage brawl.

Inside the Real-Life Fight Between Dave Bautista and Booker T

by Braeden Farrell  Oct 7, 2024

Inside the infamous real-life fight between Dave Bautista and Booker T—how their brawl became one of WWE’s most talked-about incidents.

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.

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.

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!

Discover 21 facts about British wrestling icon Kendo Nagasaki, from his secret life outside the ring to a Guinness World Record bid at age 83!

Kendo Nagasaki: 21 Secrets of a British Wrestling Icon

by Griffin Kaye  May 2, 2025

Discover 21 facts about British wrestling icon Kendo Nagasaki, from his secret life outside the ring to a Guinness World Record bid at age 83!

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.

The Ultimate Warrior glides in the air towards his opponent, Orlando Jordan, in what would be Warrior's final-ever match. Nu Wrestling Evolution, Barcelona, Spain, June 25, 2008.

The Ultimate Warrior and The Story of His Final Match

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

Ultimate Warrior, after making homophobic remarks just 3 years prior, finished his career in poetic fashion against Orlando Jordan.

2010 marked the first appearance of Randy Savage in WWE in seventeen years. With a video game, plus a new line of action figures on the way, it appeared bridges were being built between the WWE and Savage camp. Was the Macho Man preparing for a return? Lanny Poffo, Randy's brother, shares insight into Randy's mindset before his untimely passing.

Was Randy Savage Looking to Return to WWE in 2010?

by Tim Buckler  Jul 31, 2023

2010 marked the first (and ultimately last) time Randy Savage did promo work with the WWE. Was this in preparation for a return?

Ted DiBiase Jr. (left), "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase Sr. (center), and Brett DiBiase (right). The DiBiase family's wrestling legacy, once defined by championship belts and WWE Hall of Fame honors, now intersects with a $77 million Mississippi welfare fraud scandal involving federal charges, civil litigation, and a defamation lawsuit.

Inside Ted DiBiase’s Family $77M Welfare Fraud Scandal

by JP Zarka  Jan 8, 2026

Million Dollar Man’s legacy tested: Ted DiBiase’s family faces $77M welfare scandal, federal charges, and courtroom battles.

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!

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.

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…

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.

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!

Todd Pettengill: Secret Behind His Rise and Fall in WWE

by JP Zarka  Apr 22, 2025

Former WWE host Todd Pettengill talks about his time in the WWF, his first encounter with Vince McMahon, his beef with Scott Hall, and more.

Before his passing, Playboy Buddy Rose felt the WWE Hall of Fame needed to be changed.

Buddy Rose: A Radical Change for the WWE Hall of Fame

by JP Zarka  Mar 3, 2023

Each year, many deserving names are left out of the WWE Hall of Fame. Wrestling legend Buddy Rose felt this process needed to be changed!

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!

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.

Learn the surprising story behind "The Worm" Dennis Rodman's foray into the world of professional wrestling.

Surprising Way Dennis Rodman Wormed His Way into Wrestling

by Mike Gentry  Sep 8, 2023

Learn the surprising way Dennis Rodman ‘wormed’ his way from the basketball court to the wrestling ring in WCW in the ’90s and in AEW…

“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.

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.

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…

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  Feb 18, 2026

Sean O’Haire captivated audiences in WCW and WWE, but behind the spotlight, his story took a darker turn, leaving a haunting legacy.

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.

A great finishing move can define a wrestler. Finishers can become iconic, from Stone Cold Steve Austin's Stunner to The Rock's People's Elbow. But when a finisher doesn't work, in rare circumstances, wrestlers dig deep to brandish a powerful, more dangerous super-finisher to finish the job. Sometimes, the maneuver becomes more iconic than its creator!

The Super-Finisher: 11 Dangerous Wrestling Finishing Moves!

by Logan Medenica  Mar 8, 2023

When a finisher doesn’t work, a super-finisher is called upon to finish the job. Sometimes, the move becomes more iconic than its creator!

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…

The Georgia Championship Wrestling (GCW) wrestling territory thrived with stars such as Jack and Jerry Brisco, "The Minnesota Wrecking Crew" Ole and Arn Anderson, El Mongol, The Masked Superstar, Abdullah the Butcher, promoter Jim Barnett, "Bullet" Bob Armstrong, Mr. Wrestling II, "The Fabulous Freebirds" Terry Gordy and Michael Hayes, "Wildfire" Tommy Rich, The Assassins, Seth Hansen, and a host of others.

Georgia Championship Wrestling | Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Mar 10, 2023

Georgia Championship Wrestling was a prolific wrestling territory. However, greed, backstabbing, and Vince McMahon would lead to its demise.

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.

Blackjack Mulligan was stabbed by a fan before his 1971 match against Pedro Morales in Boston. The shocking attack left him bleeding in the ring and needing 100 stitches to survive.

Blackjack Mulligan: The Night a Fan Stabbed Him

by Bobby Mathews  May 21, 2025

Blackjack Mulligan was a West Texas roughneck known to take no nonsense from anybody. But on this night, he could not protect himself.

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!

Wrestlers misbehaving is nothing new, and there have been many outlandish wrestling arrests you may not be aware of outside the ring!

Wrestling Arrests You May Not Be Aware Of!

by Javier Ojst  May 7, 2025

Wrestlers misbehaving is nothing new, but there have been many outlandish wrestling arrests you may not be aware of outside the ring!

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!

Take an in-depth look into the life and 25-year-plus wrestling career of WWE's unsung hero, Charles Robinson.

Charles Robinson – WWE’s Unsung Hero in Black and White

by Christopher King  Jun 24, 2021

Charles Robinson has traveled a unique path to get to where he is today and plays an integral role in WWE. Here is his unsung…

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!

The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin stare each other down at the height of the Attitude Era, in a rivalry that fueled record ratings, sold out arenas, and produced three WrestleMania main events between 1999 and 2003. Discover the 13 pivotal moments that took them from their first collision to their final shared ring.

The Rock vs Stone Cold: 13 Moments That Defined Their Rivalry

by Aarij Arifeen  Feb 12, 2026

13 defining The Rock vs Stone Cold Steve Austin moments, from a RAW Stunner rewriting WWE’s future to what pushed them to the breaking point.

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.

Steve Austin, Owen Hart, and the infamous botch that injured Austin's neck at SummerSlam 1997.

Steve Austin – The Neck Injury That Changed His Life Forever

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

Steve Austin vs. Owen Hart should have been an instant classic. Instead, an amazing gaffe occurred that changed Austin’s life forever.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Although hijinks mainly occur off-camera, here are ten surprising times ribs trickled into the public eye in the form of a wrestler's name!

10 Wrestlers Whose Names Were Ribs in WWE & WCW

by Griffin Kaye  Sep 6, 2024

Were these 10 WWE & WCW wrestlers’ names clever jabs or just backstage jokes? Discover the playful—and often spiteful—side of wrestling!

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…

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…

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.

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.

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.

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  Jan 21, 2026

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

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…

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!

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?

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.

Lanny Poffo strolling the local beach in his new hometown of Manta, Ecuador.

Lanny Poffo – From Hurricanes to Earthquakes: The Next Chapter

by Lanny Poffo  Nov 27, 2020

The Genius Lanny Poffo has given up hurricanes in favor of earthquakes! Find out what we mean in his latest Pro Wrestling Stories editorial.

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…

"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!

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!

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.

Learn the journey of 13 former WWE mid-card wrestlers who defied the odds and soared to world championship glory after leaving the company!

13 WWE Mid-Carders Turned World Champions After Departure!

by Kevin Tanza  Nov 13, 2023

Learn the journey of 13 former WWE mid-card wrestlers who defied the odds and soared to world championship glory after leaving the company!

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…

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.

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.

Rick Martel and his brother, Michel Martel.

Michel Martel – The Tragic Passing of Rick Martel’s Brother

by Javier Ojst  Dec 8, 2023

Tragically, Michel Martel passed away at 33 after wrestling a match in Puerto Rico with the man accused of slaying Bruiser Brody.

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…

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!

Marc Copani - From Mark Magnus to Muhammad Hassan to school principal.

Muhammad Hassan – An American-Italian’s Diminished Dreams in WWE

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

Over a span of 8 months, the dreams of Marc Copani (WWE’s Muhammad Hassan) would be extinguished over something he had no control over.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

Io Shirai's journey from promising Stardom prospect (left, early career) to WWE's decorated IYO SKY (right, modern era). Between these two eras lies the 2012 Narita Airport incident that nearly ended her career.

IYO SKY (Io Shirai): Inside the 2012 Narita Airport Incident

by Rutvik Keche  Jan 26, 2026

Io Shirai arrested at Narita Airport in 2012. How the frame-up nearly destroyed her before she became WWE’s IYO SKY. The untold story.

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.

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!

Perry Saturn: The former army ranger who risked everything to help a stranger.

Perry Saturn: The Heroism That Cost Him Everything

by Joseph Finnegan  Nov 18, 2025

There was no hero moment. All Perry Saturn got in return for his heroics were two wounds from a .25 and years of hardship.

Antonino Rocca rides on the shoulders of fans after police break up the riot around the ring at Madison Square Garden on November 19, 1957.

When Wrestling Goes Bad: The 1957 MSG Riot

by Javier Ojst  Dec 1, 2025

In 1957, Madison Square Garden was a stir with violence from fans, wrestlers, and police. It almost led to the ban of wrestling in New…

The explosive friendship between Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage wasn’t just for show. While their Mega Powers partnership electrified fans, real-life tensions simmered beneath the surface. " width="2560" height="1446" /> The explosive friendship between Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage wasn’t just for show. While their Mega Powers partnership electrified fans, real-life tensions simmered beneath the surface.

Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage’s On-Off Friendship Revealed

by Matthew Redepenning  Oct 24, 2024

The on-off friendship of Hulk Hogan & Randy Savage blurred the lines between fiction and reality. Discover the truth behind the Mega Powers.

Gorilla Monsoon - Remembering "The Manchurian Giant"

Gorilla Monsoon – Remembering “The Manchurian Giant”

by Evan Ginzburg  Oct 25, 2023

When Gorilla Monsoon appeared on WWF TV for the very last time at WrestleMania 15 in March of 1999, I didn’t react well.

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.

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.

“Moondog” Lonnie Mayne brings his trademark intensity to the Cow Palace in Daly City, California, 1978. Photo Credit: Jim Fitzpatrick.

Lonnie Mayne – The Glass Eating, Raw Meat Chewing Original Moondog!

by Javier Ojst  Feb 24, 2026

“Moondog” Lonnie Mayne proved crazy doesn’t mean crazy if there’s a method behind the madness. This is his memorable story.

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…

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!

"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…

Steve Blackman and Marc Mero exchange blows during the early stages of WWE’s Brawl For All. Blackman, considered a favorite, had to withdraw due to injury, opening opportunities for others.

Brawl For All: WWE’s Failed Boxing Experiment

by JP Zarka  Nov 15, 2024

WWE’s 1998 Brawl For All blended wrestling with boxing but ended in chaos, injuries, and ruined careers. Discover the story behind the chaos.

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…

"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.

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!

Professional wrestling trailblazer, Mildred Burke.

Mildred Burke: The 5’2″ Giant Who Conquered Wrestling

by Javier Ojst  Feb 19, 2025

The 5’2” queen who made men tap. Mildred Burke’s reign hid bone-snapping holds, backroom scandals, and wrestling’s forbidden truth.

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.

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!

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.

"The Assassin" Jody Hamilton.

Jody Hamilton – Behind the Mask of The Assassin

by Javier Ojst  Oct 17, 2024

From generating heat that got him in dire trouble to becoming a trainer and promoter, we pull back the mask on The Assassin Jody Hamilton.

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!

Yokozuna, The Undertaker, and JBL played a big role backstage in WWE regarding Wrestlers' Court! [Artwork: Chris Fason / @FasonArt]

WWE’s Wrestlers’ Court: Shocking Tales from Behind the Curtain

by Braeden Farrell  Mar 3, 2023

For many of these wrestlers, all it took was one mistake. Discover shocking details on WWE’s Wrestlers’ Court!

Here are 20 of the best wrestling ribs and practical joke stories. Some are lighthearted, while others are just plain cruel!

Ribs and Practical Jokes in Wrestling: 20 Classic Tales

by Matt Pender  Sep 4, 2025

Here are 20 of the best wrestling ribs and practical joke stories. Some are lighthearted, while others are just plain cruel!

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.

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.

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.

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…

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…

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!

Bob Evans Shoveling out some Brutal Honesty on Ring of Honor

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 7, 2026

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…

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.

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!

Harris Norris, Jr., who had appeared regularly for WCW as Hardbody Harrison, lived a secret life so dark and disturbing that it earned him life in prison with no chance of parole.

Hardbody Harrison: A Dark Secret That Earned Him Life in Prison

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Apr 21, 2024

Wrestler Hardbody Harrison lived a secret life so dark and disturbing that it earned him life in prison with no chance of parole.

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.

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.

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…

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.

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!

The following wrestling managers deserve a bit of our love by making professional wrestling exceptionally better by being a part of it!

11 Wrestling Managers Who Deserve Some Love

by Bobby Mathews  Nov 11, 2022

The following wrestling managers deserve a bit of our love by making professional wrestling exceptionally better by being a part of it!

"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!

“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.

André The Giant | Unforgettable Encounters with Fans

André The Giant | Unforgettable Encounters with Fans

by Javier Ojst  Jul 7, 2022

Wrestling fans describe what it was like to meet André The Giant. These stories show a whole different side of the giant!

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.

Andre the Giant and Akira Maeda face off in Japan in May 1986 – A match that started normally but quickly went off the rails.

Andre the Giant vs. Akira Maeda: The Real Fight That Shook Japan

by Jim Phillips  Sep 13, 2024

Andre the Giant vs. Akira Maeda: A match that went off-script and turned into a real fight in 1986 Japan. Learn the story behind the…

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.

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.

In pro wrestling, the right catchphrase can elevate a superstar to legendary status. But not all attempts stick. Some flop spectacularly, leaving even the biggest names in the business sounding awkward or forced!

10 Wrestling Catchphrases That Failed Spectacularly

by Griffin Kaye  Oct 16, 2024

Not every wrestling catchphrase is a hit. Some flop spectacularly, leaving even the biggest legends sounding awkward or forced!

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!

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!

Christopher Nowinksi: From WWE as 'Chris Harvard’ (left, in 2002) to leading CTE researcher at Boston University (right). A single concussion ended his wrestling career and launched a mission to expose what the sports world didn’t want to see. Photo Credit: WWE / The New York Times. Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

Christopher Nowinski: WWE Star Reveals What Science Missed

by Matt Roberts  Jan 20, 2026

WWE star Christopher Nowinski’s career-ending concussion helped expose CTE. What he did next behind the scenes changed sports forever.

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…

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.

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!

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!

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