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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
  • Shop
    • T-Shirts & Mugs
    • Pro Wrestling eBooks
    • Memorabilia & Autographs (coming soon!)
  • 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
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
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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.

Uncle Sam’s favorite nephew: ‘Hacksaw’ Jim Duggan.

When Hacksaw Jim Duggan Broke the Hearts of Millions

by Mike Gentry  Apr 20, 2023

There was a time when Hacksaw Jim Duggan broke the heart of his fans. This is the tale of that strange and almost forgotten saga!

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

9 Crazy Jake Roberts Stories You May Have Missed

by JP Zarka  May 21, 2025

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

The 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…

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

Alice Cooper on His Terrifying WrestleMania III Experience

by JP Zarka  Nov 17, 2025

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

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.

At ECW One Night Stand 2005, JBL and Blue Meanie had a legitimate confrontation that went too far. Here's what really happened.

JBL vs. Blue Meanie ECW Incident That Went Too Far

by Braeden Farrell  Nov 18, 2025

At ECW One Night Stand 2005, JBL and Blue Meanie had a legitimate confrontation that went too far. Here’s what really happened.

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…

Mario Louis Fornini was an Italian professional wrestler and wrestling promoter, better known professionally as Angelo Savoldi. At the time of his death, he was known as the world's oldest retired wrestler at the age of 99.

Angelo Savoldi – The World’s Oldest Retired Wrestler

by Benny J. Scala  May 9, 2023

A notable wrestler’s father once stabbed him. For the “World’s Oldest Retired Wrestler” Angelo Savoldi, authenticity was always involved.

They made champions crumble, and fans weep. Read on to discover 15 WWWF heels of WWE’s 1970s era left scars that haven’t healed in 50-plus years.

15 Most Hated Heels of WWE’s 1970s WWWF Era

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 11, 2026

They made champions crumble, and fans weep. These 15 WWWF heels of WWE’s 1970s era left scars that haven’t healed in 50-plus years.

"The Crippler" Chris Benoit.

Chris Benoit: The Darkness Behind ‘The Crippler’

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 25, 2023

From the Hart Family Dungeon to his unimaginable final days, this is the story of Chris Benoit, the man they called “The Crippler.”

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.

Shawn Michaels and Chris Jericho stare each other down at SummerSlam 2008.

Chris Jericho and Shawn Michaels – The Story Behind The Feud

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Nov 14, 2023

The Chris Jericho and Shawn Michaels feud was full of layers of emotion that could resonate with any fan. Here is the story behind it…

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!

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.

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!

The Western States Sports wrestling territory thrived under the helm of Dory Funk Sr., Dory Funk, Jr., and Terry Funk, and stars such as Mike DiBiase, Lord Alfred Hayes, Dick Murdoch, Ciclón Negro, The Von Brauners, Fritz Von Erich, Don "The Lawman" Slatton, Gory Guerrero, Ricky Romero, and a host of others.

Western States Sports – Funk Amarillo Territory | The Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Apr 22, 2023

The Funk’s Western States Sports wrestling territory out of Amarillo took wrestling to great heights. Here’s the story of its rise and demise.

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.

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.

“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.

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.

Wrestler Ben Justice.

Ben Justice: A Wrestling Legacy Remembered

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 31, 2024

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

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.

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.

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.

Due to last-minute changes stemming from unexpected Jerry Lawler legal troubles, WWE had to scramble and replaced the originally scheduled match with The Hart Family vs. Shawn Michaels and his three masked Knights at Survivor Series 1993.

The WWE Controversy Seldom Talked About From 1993

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Mar 19, 2025

At Survivor Series 1993, WWE scrambled to replace Jerry Lawler after a sudden controversy, leading to an unexpected match.

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.

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!

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

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

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

From West Texas fields to professional wrestling’s grandest stages, Bobby Duncum Sr. proved that authenticity never goes out of style.

Bobby Duncum Sr: The Cowboy Heel Who Made Wrestling Real

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 22, 2026

Bobby Duncum Sr. had a real fight aura. Bruno Sammartino scouted him, wrestlers revered him, yet fans forgot. Learn why his legend matters.

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?

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!

Janet Boyer Wolfe.

Janet Boyer Wolfe – A Promising Career Tragically Cut Short

by Javier Ojst  Sep 1, 2025

On July 28th, 1951, tragedy struck when 18-year-old Janet Boyer Wolfe suddenly collapsed during only her third professional wrestling match.

The Father of Puroresu: Rikidozan.

The Tragic Killing of Rikidozan: The Father of Puroresu

by Javier Ojst  Feb 13, 2023

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

The fact that these significant WrestleMania matches surprisingly did not occur in the main event will forever surprise fans.

11 WrestleMania Matches That Surprisingly Didn’t Main Event

by Aditya Modak  Nov 10, 2021

The fact that these significant WrestleMania matches surprisingly did not occur in the main event will forever surprise fans.

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…

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.

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)!

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…

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!

5 Wrestlers Besides The Rock Who Starred In Movies

5 Wrestlers Besides The Rock Who Starred In Movies

by Joseph Finnegan  Oct 17, 2024

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

Mr. Fuji was known for his "devious" ribs and practical jokes.

When Pranks Go Too Far: The Shocking Reality of Mr. Fuji

by Matt Pender  Feb 22, 2023

Mr. Fuji was devious on and off-camera, and these shocking stories will surely have you looking at him in a different light!

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  May 8, 2026

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.

“Metal Maniac” Jeff Miller: Then & Now. When the dream of wrestling turned into a nightmare, one call to a respected veteran would change it all for him.

Metal Maniac: The Wrestling Story They Tried to Silence

by Javier Ojst  Feb 4, 2025

From rock star dreams to wrestling nightmare: How one phone call saved Metal Maniac from two of wrestling’s most notorious bullies.

"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.

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  Apr 15, 2026

Exclusive photos and eyewitness accounts of the 1997 WWE Little Rock riot, when fans realized they weren’t at Raw, and chaos exploded.

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.

Remembering Dominic DeNucci - a wrestling legend and, more importantly, a good man.

Dominic DeNucci – Wrestling’s Shining Light

by Benny J. Scala  Jul 7, 2022

He wrestled across seven decades throughout his illustrious career. But his accolades take a distant second to Dominic DeNucci, the man.

From capturing world titles to leading major promotions, these 13 wrestlers, including Matt Cardona (fka Zack Ryder), Cody Rhodes (fka Stardust), and Bully Ray (fka Bubba Ray Dudley), proved that leaving WWE was the key to their success!

13 WWE Exits That Led to Main Event Success

by Kevin Tanza  Oct 21, 2024

13 WWE midcarders who left and achieved main event success! Discover how they found triumph and championship gold beyond WWE.

Global Force Wrestling was a professional wrestling promotion founded by Jeff Jarrett in 2014 that became defunct after only four years.

Global Force Wrestling: Its Brief History and Why It Broke Down

by Aarij Arifeen  Aug 25, 2022

Jeff Jarrett has had shares of triumphs, failures, and controversies in wrestling. Global Force Wrestling is part of his complicated history.

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 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.

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.

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.

The Philadelphia Civic Center at 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, the longtime home of major professional events in the city, and the site of Jim Crockett Promotions' July 20, 1985, NWA card. The venue was demolished in 1995.

The Lost 1985 NWA House Show Fans Never Forgot

by Tony M. Caro  May 22, 2026

In 1985, a loaded Jim Crockett Promotions house show hit Philadelphia, delivering title fights and chaos fans still talk about.

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.”

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Nov 7, 2019

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

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.

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.

From Hookers to Houses to Dusty Finishes: Unlock the Secret Language That Once Ruled the Ring!

36 Pro Wrestling Terms You Rarely Hear Anymore

by Jason LeBlanc  May 13, 2025

Unlock the secret code of 36 pro wrestling terms rarely heard today and the hidden meanings behind the lingo that once ruled the ring!

Eddie Guerrero and Brock Lesnar – An Unlikely Hero Conquers

by Joseph Finnegan  Apr 19, 2021

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

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…

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…

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!

Evan Ginzburg proudly announced the release of his latest book, "Wrestling Rings, Blackboards, and Movie Sets," a memoir filled with 100 never-before-told tales featuring wrestling legends like Bruno Sammartino, Johnny Valiant, and Killer Kowalski, as well as iconic celebrities like Mickey Rourke, Muhammad Ali, and Nicolas Cage.

Inside Evan Ginzburg’s Wrestling Rings, Blackboards & Movie Sets

by JP Zarka  Feb 19, 2025

Evan Ginzburg’s Wrestling Rings, Blackboards, and Movie Sets shares 100 untold stories of wrestling legends, Hollywood, and personal triumphs.

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

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

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 18, 2023

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

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!

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.

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…

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

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

by JP Zarka  Dec 28, 2022

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

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…

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.

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  Jun 5, 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.

Lanny Poffo over the years. The last image on the right was taken just one day before he sadly passed away. We honor and remember our friend, a man known to wrestling fans as "Leaping Lanny" and "The Genius." [Photo composite by JP Zarka/Pro Wrestling Stories]

Lanny Poffo: Remembering a Genius Friend

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 6, 2023

With a heavy heart, we say goodbye to our beloved friend, Lanny Poffo, known to wrestling fans as “The Genius” and “Leaping Lanny.”

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.

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

Sean Oliver: Secret Life Behind Wrestling Shoot Interviews

by Rob Ireland  May 31, 2023

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

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!

Kizarny at a carnival during one of his vignettes prior to his WWE debut.

Kizarny – The Bizarre Story of His Short-Lived Time in WWE

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 10, 2023

Kizarny debuted on WWE SmackDown on October 10th, 2008. Five months later, he would be gone from the company. Here’s how it all went wrong.

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.

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

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.

Dino Bravo, before hard times.

Dino Bravo: His Tragic Unsolved Murder by the Mob

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

The United Kingdom has produced some of the very best in professional wrestling over the years. Although some of the wrestlers we detail below broke through to major promotions during their time in the business, often, they aren't given the recognition they deserve. Here are twelve British wrestlers who were critical to the evolution of British wrestling and influenced some of the very best of today.

12 British Wrestlers From the Past Who Paved the Way

by Kieran Hamilton  Sep 3, 2025

Here are twelve British wrestlers who were critical to the evolution of British wrestling and influenced some of the very best of today.

A stacked roster of WWF stars was promised. The Louisville Gardens on June 27, 1996, was packed with fans who had no idea the night was about to go sideways before the opening bell.

WWE Louisville 1996 House Show That Nearly Fell Apart

by Simon Boehm  Apr 23, 2026

A full WWE house show card in Louisville was advertised. By bell time, almost no one on the roster had made it to the building.

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.

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!

Remembering Calgary Stampede Star, TIGER KHAN

by Evan Ginzburg  Nov 7, 2019

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

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…

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…

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.

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…

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!

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.

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?

Yam Bag: The Night I Wrestled an Elderly Woman

by Ian Matthew Harper  Apr 21, 2022

Here is the tale of how I, a middle school social studies teacher by day, found myself involved in a wrestling match with an elderly…

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!

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.

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!

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.

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…

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?

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.

In April 2000, Mike Awesome did something no other wrestler had done in the WWE, WCW, or ECW. Here, he did it on the same day!

Mike Awesome Makes WWE/WCW/ECW History on Same Day!

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Nov 14, 2023

In April 2000, Mike Awesome did something no other wrestler had done in the WWE, WCW, or ECW. Here, he did it on the same…

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

Witnessing History: Superstar Billy Graham’s Best Matches

by Evan Ginzburg  May 18, 2023

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

"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.

David Sammartino and The Phantom Submission: One of Wrestling’s Most Surprising Upsets

7 Wrestling Upsets That Left Fans Shocked and Confused

by Javier Ojst  Feb 15, 2023

“Things did not go to plan!” Here are seven upset victories that took place in the ring that left wrestling fans shocked and confused.

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

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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…

Roddy Piper - From The Streets to the Big Time

Roddy Piper – From The Streets to the Big Time

by Rob Ireland  Jan 10, 2023

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

The story of the time The Big Show broke a heckling fan's jaw and ended up getting charged for third-degree assault.

The Big Show Takes Care of a Heckling Fan, Lands Himself in Court

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

This incident with the Big Show took place at The Marriott Hotel, where the wrestlers would stay after performing at The Nassau Coliseum.

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

Pepper Martin – A Champion’s Final Fight

by Dr. Mike Lano  Jan 10, 2023

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

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!

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!

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.

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…

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.

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

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

by Damian Balassone  Jan 29, 2020

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

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…

The Shaker Heights Spike, the Beverly Brothers’ infamous finisher, became notorious for its dangerous execution and career-ending consequences, particularly for enhancement talent. It ultimately ended the career of one unfortunate wrestler.

Shaker Heights Spike: A Finisher That Damaged Lives

by JP Zarka  Nov 27, 2024

The Beverly Brothers’ Shaker Heights Spike is notorious for its dangerous execution and career-ending effects, particularly for one wrestler.

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…

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.

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

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

by Soul Tsukino  Feb 27, 2023

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

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!

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

11 WWE Stars Who Won World Championship in Their First Year

by Kevin Tanza  Oct 28, 2024

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

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

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

by Jim Phillips  Aug 12, 2024

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

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!

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

El Santo Unmasked: 10 Secret Tales on the Superstar Luchador

by Javier Ojst  Feb 5, 2025

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

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!

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…

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.

There was arguably no one more popular in the Mid-South area than Junkyard Dog.

Junkyard Dog and Daughter: A Wrestling Tragedy

by JP Zarka  May 14, 2025

Junkyard Dog (JYD) was a legend in the ring. But tragedy struck twice — first with his shocking death, then his daughter’s years later.

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 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.

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…

Lou Thesz was a shrewd businessman in and out of the ring!

Lou Thesz – The Side Business Hustles of a Champion Wrestler

by Ron Matejko  Jan 10, 2023

Lou Thesz lived quite a surprising life outside of the ring. Here, we dive into the lesser-known side hustles of a champion wrestler!

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…

"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?

From heartbreaking memories of murder to troubles in the WWE, Savio Vega lifts the veil about life once cameras weren't around.

Savio Vega: Secret History on the Original Boricua

by Javier Ojst  Feb 7, 2024

From heartbreaking memories of murder to troubles in the WWE, Savio Vega lifts the veil about life once cameras weren’t around.

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.

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!

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!

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.

Mr. Perfect (Curt Hennig), Macho Man Randy Savage, and The Honky Tonk Man dominated the WWE Intercontinental Championship during their legendary reigns - but which of these icons holds the longest reign in the title’s long history? Discover the complete ranking of all thirteen record-setting champions who transformed this prestigious belt into a launchpad for superstardom.

WWE Intercontinental Championship: 13 Longest Reigns

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Apr 14, 2026

Discover the 13 longest WWE Intercontinental Championship reigns and the legends who made history with each title run.

Chad Damiani Conducting an Interview

Chad Damiani: From Wrestling Hotlines to Hollywood

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Apr 8, 2026

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

Wrestling’s Gay History and Optimistic Future

by Christa Pagliei  May 7, 2025

Explore how gay culture helped shape the world of professional wrestling — and how different the industry would be without its influence.

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…

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…

RVD and Tajiri compete for the WWF Hardcore Championship on Monday Night Raw at the First Union Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 30, 2001.

RVD and Tajiri Create the Unexpected in Philly

by Cameron Greenway  Feb 8, 2023

On July 30th, 2001, a wildly overlooked match between RVD and Tajiri took place. In the process, an unexpected thing happened!

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!

Tom Castor clutches his leg after sustaining a horrific injury while referring in the main event of a WWE NXT house show in Omaha, Nebraska, on April 25th, 2019.

WWE Referee Tom Castor and His Amazing Act of Resilience

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 28, 2023

WWE NXT referee Tom Castor showed vast amounts of resilience after a gruesome injury took place mid-match in Omaha in 2019.

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.

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!”

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!

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!

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

Dynamite Kid – Examining His Life and Troubled Legacy

by Mason Epeneter  Jan 10, 2023

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

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!

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.

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!

NWA and Nick Aldis – Rising Back to Prominence

by Mason Epeneter  Nov 7, 2019

The NWA. The National Wrestling Alliance. 3 words and 3 letters that were overlooked over the years. That was until one man came along.

Steve Keirn is best known for his appearances in the NWA territories as one-half of the tag team The Fabulous Ones and the World Wrestling Federation as the second version of Doink the Clown and Skinner.

Steve Keirn: Fabulous Ones, Doink, Skinner, and Beyond

by Javier Ojst  Apr 22, 2025

Although Steve Keirn found success as one half of The Fabulous Ones and later Doink the Clown and Skinner, his path was a brutal one.

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,…

Undertaker and Mankind | Hell in a Cell Match Was NOT The Original Plan

by Christopher King  Dec 29, 2020

It’s strange to ponder this, but the legendary Undertaker and Mankind Hell in a Cell match wasn’t even supposed to take place!

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.

Dark Secrets of WWE: From the Writer's Room to the Ring

Dark Secrets of WWE: From the Writer’s Room to the Ring

by Christopher King  Jan 10, 2023

From the writer’s room at WWE’s headquarters to the board room and finally to the ring, here is an inside behind-the-scenes look at the beast…

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.

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  May 4, 2026

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

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!

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!

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

Pee-wee Herman’s Unlikely Pro Wrestling Crossover

by Marc Madison  Oct 2, 2024

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

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…

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!

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.

These 12 trailblazing women redefined wrestling, yet remain shamefully overlooked by the WWE Hall of Fame. It’s time to give them their due.

12 Women Shamefully Not in the WWE Hall of Fame

by Nati Feliciano  Dec 11, 2024

These 12 women redefined wrestling, shattered stereotypes, and inspired fans, yet are shamefully not in the WWE Hall of Fame. It’s time they’re honored.

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!

Chief Don Eagle was a Native American wrestling pioneer of immense talent. New eyewitness testimony exposes chilling details from the room where wrestling legend Don Eagle met his untimely end.

Chief Don Eagle: Haunting Secrets of Wrestler’s Mysterious Death

by Bill McCormack  Sep 2, 2025

Chief Don Eagle was a native American wrestling pioneer, remembered for screwjob finishes and an unsolved death that still begs answers.

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!

Among the brightest stars of 1990s joshi puroresu were Debbie Malenko, Chaparita Asari, Mima Shimoda, Etsuko Mita, Toshiyo Yamada, Yumiko Hotta, Saemi Numata (Numatchi), Manami Toyota, Kyoko Inoue, Infernal Maeda, Kumiko Maekawa, Bull Nakano, Takako Inoue, Eagle Sawai, Akira Hokuto, Kaoru Ito, Aja Kong, Suzuka Minami, and Terri Powers. From Tokyo Dome triumph in 1994 to AJW’s collapse in 1997, their era rose to global acclaim before unraveling, leaving a lasting mark on Japanese women’s pro wrestling.

When Joshi Ruled the 90s, Then Collapsed

by Rutvik Keche  Oct 29, 2025

From Tokyo Dome in 1994 to collapse in 1997: how ’90s joshi rose, fell, and the lasting mark it left on Japanese women’s pro 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…

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!”

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…

“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 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.

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!

From Mongolia to the mainland, Killer Khan tore a swathe through every territory he went to, even once leaving Andre the Giant lying crippled in his wake!

Killer Khan: Secret Story of the Scourge From Mongolia

by Jim Phillips  Dec 30, 2023

On December 29, 2023, WWE legend Killer Khan died following a tragic incident at his restaurant. Discover his hidden life outside the ring.

Paul Orndorff and B. Brian Blair early in their professional wrestling careers.

Brian Blair on Paul Orndorff, Shoot Fights, Ribs, and More!

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 10, 2023

Brian Blair opens up about Paul Orndorff, The Cauliflower Alley Club, rib stories, and five times he got into brutal shoot fights.

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.

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!

"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!

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!

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.

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!

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

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 8, 2023

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

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

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

by Griffin Kaye  May 25, 2023

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

Bullet Bob Armstrong, Southeastern Championship Wrestling.

Bob Armstrong | Stronger Than A Bullet

by Bobby Mathews  Jul 11, 2022

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

Wrestling Returns that Left Fans Shocked

13 Wrestling Returns that Left Fans in a Frenzy

by Kevin Tanza  Oct 9, 2025

Discover 13 memorable wrestling returns. From surprise entrances to emotional homecomings, these moments had fans on their feet!

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…

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

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

by Javier Ojst  May 15, 2024

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

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.

Dale Pierce Remembered – Wrestling Manager Extraordinaire

by Evan Ginzburg  Sep 1, 2022

Dale Pierce simultaneously loved and loathed pro wrestling with a passion that only someone who has devoted their life to it could fully grasp.

Eddie Guerrero remains one of the greatest and most influential wrestlers of his generation.

The Tragic Final Days of Eddie Guerrero

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 10, 2023

To put it simply: his heart gave out. The tragic passing of Eddie Guerrero is still hard to fathom. He had just turned 38 the…

The 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.

The eyes are the windows to the soul!" What follows are several examples of incidents where wrestlers were blinded in or out of the ring!

6 Times Professional Wrestlers Were Blinded

by Benny J. Scala  Aug 29, 2024

“The eyes are the windows to the soul!” What follows are several examples of incidents where wrestlers were blinded in or out of the ring!

"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!

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

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

by Ethan Absler  Mar 3, 2023

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

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…

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

Surprising Story Behind TV Debut of The Road Warriors

by Ron Matejko  May 23, 2025

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

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!

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!)

Jeff Hardy and Sting Incident: Hitting Rock Bottom in TNA

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 23, 2024

Jeff Hardy and Sting squared off at the TNA Victory Road PPV in 2011. It was a match that stands out for all the wrong…

Jack Donovan, Tojo Yamamoto, Jerry Jarrett, and Jackie Fargo.

Jack Donovan Deal – One of Wrestling’s Most Heinous Attacks

by Javier Ojst  Jul 17, 2023

Jack Donovan was in a situation that almost turned deadly. It changed the lives of Tojo Yamamoto, Jerry Jarrett and Jackie Fargo forever.

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!

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

Bruiser Brody and Lex Luger Steel Cage Controversy

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 19, 2024

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

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.

The two Hulk's do battle. Fantasy art on Deviantart by MrJimiMadcap.

Hulk Hogan versus Marvel Comics | The Fight for His Name

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

Hulk Hogan and Hulkamania possibly never would have run wild had it not been for this bizarre agreement between Marvel Comics and the WWF!

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.

Joseph “Toots” Mondt, Ed “Strangler” Lewis, and Billy Sandow, collectively known as the Gold Dust Trio - three men at the center of one of professional wrestling’s most debated chapters in history. Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

Gold Dust Trio: Debunking Wrestling’s Great Misconception

by Ruslan C. Pashayev  Mar 17, 2026

For 100 years, the Gold Dust Trio has been blamed for “ruining” pro wrestling. History says otherwise, and it’s been hiding in plain sight.

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.

The Rockers (Shawn Michaels and Marty Jannetty) celebrate winning the WWF Tag Team Championship over The Hart Foundation on October 30th, 1990's episode of Saturday Night's Main Event. Their triumph, however, would be short-lived.

The Rockers and Their Canceled WWF Championship Win

by Matt Pender  Feb 16, 2023

The Rockers (Shawn Michaels and Marty Jannetty) became WWF Tag Team Championship in 1990. Their triumph, however, would be short-lived.

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.

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!

WCW’s Black Scorpion storyline promised mystery but delivered failure. Explore the disaster that almost derailed Sting’s first title reign.

The Black Scorpion: WCW’s Great Unmasking Failure

by Javier Ojst  Sep 16, 2024

WCW’s Black Scorpion storyline promised mystery but delivered failure. Explore the disaster that almost derailed Sting’s first title reign.

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!

The Iron Sheik made Twitter humble!

The Late-Great Iron Sheik’s 10 Greatest Tweets

by Braeden Farrell  Jun 7, 2023

Although he is sadly no longer with us, The Iron Sheik certainly stirred up much controversy and drama along the way on Twitter!

Earl Hebner raises the arm of Bret Hart after he successfully defended the WWF World Heavyweight Championship against Shawn Michaels at 1992’s Survivor Series pay-per-view.

Bret Hart and his Often Overlooked First Championship Reign

by Si Powell  Apr 22, 2025

We look back on the first Bret Hart title reign, and how the WWF seemingly could not entirely pull the trigger this first time around.

From the first televised table spot in the 1960s, to Ric Flair vs Terry Funk at Clash of the Champions IX in 1989, to Edge spearing Mick Foley through a flaming table at WrestleMania 22 in 2006, read on to discover 15 of the most destructive and memorable table spots in history!

15 Legendary Wrestling Table Spots Fans Still Talk About

by Tim Buckler  Nov 6, 2025

Wrestling table spots, from the territories to modern arenas. Discover 15 of the most destructive and memorable table spots in history!

Hulk Hogan and Shawn Michaels square off at SummerSlam 2005.

Hulk Hogan and Shawn Michaels: The SummerSlam Misfire

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 16, 2024

The Shawn Michaels and Hulk Hogan match at SummerSlam 2005 promised greatness but is now infamous for its backstage drama and fallout!

Lucha libre’s high-flying moves and colorful masks hide a darker side—4 wrestlers who paid the ultimate price by losing an eye in a match.

Blindsided: 4 Lucha Wrestlers Who Lost an Eye in a Match

by Javier Ojst  Jul 15, 2025

Lucha libre’s high-flying moves and colorful masks hide a darker side—4 wrestlers who paid the ultimate price by losing an eye in a match.

From The Tempest (top left), Gran Neffer (bottom left), La Satánica, Pepe El Bello (center), Sordomudo Cruz, La Momia Negra (top right), and Comanche Lima (bottom right), El Salvador is a country rich in wrestling past and present.

Wrestling Stories from El Salvador – Its Wild History and Bright Future

by Javier Ojst  Dec 27, 2023

Among the beautiful beaches and friendly people in El Salvador, you’ll find a country rich in wrestling history with unbelievably wild tales!

Ultimate Warrior and “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase. [Photo: Saturday Night’s Main Event, October 30th, 1990 / WWE.com]

Details on Ultimate Warrior’s Initial WWE Hall of Fame Refusal

by Matt Pender  Mar 10, 2023

Ultimate Warrior refused entry into the 2011 WWE Hall of Fame. Ted DiBiase explains why it would have made quite a tense environment!

Triple H: Why Owen Hart Was Never World Heavyweight Champion

Triple H: Why Owen Hart Was Never World Heavyweight Champion

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

Bob Holly and René Duprée’s traffic ticket fight left one hospitalized, one fined, and changed the course of a WWE career forever.

Bob Holly and René Duprée: Brutal Real-Life Fight Over A Ticket

by JP Zarka  Mar 12, 2026

Bob Holly and René Duprée’s traffic ticket fight left one hospitalized, one fined, and changed the course of a WWE career forever.

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!

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.

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.​

The Rock delivering The People’s Elbow with great intensity.

The Rock | The People’s Elbow – The Story Behind Its Creation

by Christopher King  Jul 26, 2021

The People’s Elbow by The Rock was never meant to be used more than once. Here is the ridiculous story behind its creation.

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.

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.

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.

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…

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  Jun 5, 2026

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

Adrian Street was a brawler who lived by his own rules!

Adrian Street: From Glitz to Grappling, His Legendary Tale

by Javier Ojst  May 11, 2024

Adrian Street played by his own rules. He’d inflict pain (while keeping mascara intact)! But how hard was life for the sequined grappler?

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!

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

Bruno Sammartino Documentary: An Honest Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 1, 2025

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

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

Roddy Piper and Ric Flair – A Less Familiar Story

by Chris Dreibelbis  Feb 6, 2023

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

The 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.

Actor Ben Savage as Corey Matthews confronts Big Van Vader (Leon White) in the wrestling-themed episode of Boy Meets World in 1996, establishing the unlikely collision between sitcom and professional wrestling.

How Vader Stole Scenes on Boy Meets World as Sitcom Dad

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 29, 2026

When Big Van Vader appeared on Boy Meets World, a wrestling monster became a sitcom father. Discover why these three episodes still resonate.

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…

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.

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  Apr 13, 2026

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.

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

Austin Idol: From McCord To Discord

by Benny J. Scala  Mar 7, 2023

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

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  Mar 17, 2026

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…

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.

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.

Sting attacks nWo's Hollywood Hulk Hogan at WCW Starrcade, December 28, 1997.

Sting – Becoming The Crow, Rescuing WCW From the nWo

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Nov 14, 2023

Throughout this comprehensive timeline, we document how Sting became The Crow and how he rescued WCW from the clutches of the nWo.

"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.

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…

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.

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.

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

President Donald Trump & The McMahons’ Secret WWE Empire

by JP Zarka  Jan 21, 2025

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

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.

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!

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.

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!

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

Ancient Gladiators and Pro Wrestling: Surprising Ties Uncovered

by Ethan Absler  Mar 7, 2023

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

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

The Shocking Life of ‘Ludvig Borga’ Tony Halme

by Stosh Jonjak  Feb 6, 2025

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

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  Jun 5, 2026

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.

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…

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  Apr 9, 2026

A custom WWF King of the Ring championship belt was commissioned for King Mabel, which soon came with its share of controversy and scrutiny!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Growing Up The Daughter of a Wrestling Heel

by Javier Ojst  May 9, 2023

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

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!

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.

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!

From his memorable appearance on The Price Is Right to his feared look and heart punch, it all came years after his struggle to put food on his table.

Ox Baker – The Endearing Heel Who Loved To Hurt People

by Javier Ojst  Mar 7, 2023

With a heart punch that ignited a riot in ’74 and a face only a mother could like, Ox Baker was one of the most…

Mark "Van Hammer" Hildreth in WCW and beyond, from heavy metal hopeful with a Flying V guitar and a big money contract to a life later marked by personal battles and hard headlines.

Van Hammer: From WCW Hype to a Life Derailed

by Griffin Kaye  Jun 5, 2026

Van Hammer’s WCW rise, backstage heat, personal battles, and the complex legacy remembered by Marc Mero and the two women who knew him best.

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

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

by JP Zarka  Mar 6, 2023

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

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.

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…

Fred Ottman opens up about his botched The Shockmaster debut.

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

by Javier Ojst  Apr 12, 2024

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

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!

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.”

Bob Holly on the 'Real' Chyna and Jeff Jarrett Holding WWE Hostage

Bob Holly on the ‘Real’ Chyna and Jeff Jarrett Holding WWE Hostage

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jul 4, 2023

Bob Holly opens up about how Chyna and Triple H were once the cameras were turned off, Jeff Jarrett holding the WWE hostage, and more.

The signature sign-off for Chris Hyatte.

Chris Hyatte – RIP to the Most Entertaining Man in the Room

by Bobby Mathews  Aug 5, 2020

Chris Hyatte died. This time it was for real. Maybe. He’d died maybe a hundred Internet deaths. Hyatte was a lightning rod for readers and…

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

Action Mike Jackson has wrestled across five decades, from his early days in the Southern territories to walking the ropes in TNA well into his 70s. Few careers in professional wrestling have stretched this far and meant this much.

Action Mike Jackson: Ageless Wonder Still Wrestling in His 70s

by Jim Phillips  Mar 4, 2026

Still wrestling in his 70s, Action Mike Jackson revisits the territory era, fan violence, and his TNA return in a rare, unfiltered interview.

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.

January 30, 1908: The earliest known wrestling footage featuring George Hackenschmidt vs. Joe Rogers. Historian Ruslan C. Pashayev reveals why this pivotal match is pro wrestling’s most game-changing discovery yet.

Earliest Wrestling Footage: 1908 Hack vs. Rogers Review

by Ruslan C. Pashayev  Aug 27, 2025

Earliest 1908 wrestling footage reveals George Hackenschmidt and Joe Rogers. We review a pivotal moment that shaped the sport forever.

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.

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!

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.

With my hero, Bruno Sammartino. Little did I know this would be his last Christmas.

Bruno Sammartino’s Last Christmas: Untold Tales Shared

by Benny J. Scala  Dec 17, 2024

Bruno Sammartino was my hero since I was 13, and I spent his final-ever Christmas with him. Here is how I found myself in that…

Fritz Von Erich’s Iron Claw, Irwin R. Schyster’s rope-assisted abdominal stretch, and Chief Wahoo McDaniel’s sleeper hold captured a time when a simple hold could stop a match cold. These moves did not need flips, tables, or a dozen false finishes. They only needed fans to believe the end might be seconds away, and they are among the 150 classic wrestling moves you rarely see anymore.

150 Classic Wrestling Moves You Rarely See Anymore

by JP Zarka  Jun 1, 2026

A DDT once ended matches. A sleeper once silenced arenas. 150 classic wrestling moves that lost their power, their purpose, or their place.

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

Jacqueline Moore – A Tough, Shining Star Out of Texas

by Ebony Nash  May 18, 2026

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

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.

Del "The Patriot" Wilkes

Del “The Patriot” Wilkes Overcomes Struggles Before Death

by JP Zarka  Feb 28, 2026

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

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

Sam Sheppard – How a Murder Inspired a Wrestling Career

by Michael Marek  Jul 10, 2025

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

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?

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…

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.

"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.

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…

Discover 18 modern pro wrestling championship belts that define today's craft, rivaling the legendary designs of wrestling's golden era!

18 Wrestling Championship Belts That Shine in Modern Era

by Kevin Tanza  Jul 23, 2025

Discover 18 modern pro wrestling championship belts that define today’s craft, rivaling the legendary designs of wrestling’s golden era!

4 Rebels Who Revolutionized Professional Wrestling

4 Rebels Who Revolutionized Professional Wrestling

by Theo Tonća  Aug 9, 2021

These 4 wrestlers helped professional wrestling transition from a more plodding mat style to the more fast-paced style of today.

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)!

Rey Mysterio celebrates winning the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 22.

Rey Mysterio: Secret Tale Behind WWE Championship Win

by Aaron Young  Feb 27, 2023

Despite support from fans, it wasn’t originally in the plans for Rey Mysterio to win the World Heavyweight Championship in WWE.

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.

OJ Simpson and Roddy Piper was a match that almost occurred. We explain how it all came close to going down.

OJ Simpson and Roddy Piper Match That Almost Was

by Rob Ireland  Jan 15, 2025

In 1996, WWE nearly staged a Roddy Piper vs. OJ match Simpson at WrestleMania XII. Here’s the untold tale of how it almost went down!

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…

He skipped NBA practice to wrestle on pay-per-view. In 2026, he becomes a WWE Hall of Famer. But his pro wrestling story started long before anyone saw it coming.

Dennis Rodman: Wrestling’s Most Natural Outsider

by Mike Gentry  Apr 7, 2026

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…

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.

The fight between Angelo Mosca and Joe Capp in 2011 was a result of a 48-year grudge!

Angelo Mosca and Joe Kapp Fight: Surprising Details

by Javier Ojst  Apr 28, 2025

In 2011, a 48-year grudge hit a boiling point at a Canadian Football League luncheon between wrestler Angelo Mosca and quarterback Joe Kapp!

This is the story of Ring of Honor, who epitomized the very best of professional wrestling - as told by those who lived and breathed it.

Ring of Honor: Epitomizing The Very Best

by Ian Aldous  Aug 23, 2023

This is the story of Ring of Honor, who epitomized the very best of professional wrestling – as told by those who lived and breathed…

"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.

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

Kurt Angle and Ken Shamrock | The Fight That Almost Was

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

The Great Khali and the Accident That Killed a Wrestler

by Javier Ojst  Apr 15, 2024

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

“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!

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…

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…

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

Southwest Championship Wrestling: The Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Jan 14, 2026

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

Mad Max | 9 Undeniable Times Its Movies Inspired Pro Wrestling

Mad Max: 9 Unmistakable Influences on Pro Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  Feb 6, 2023

Mad Max has been around for 40+ years, and during that time, the franchise has had a lot of influence on the world of professional…

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!

Missy Hyatt and Bill Alfonso appeared in the televised courtroom of Judge Mathis in October 2002. This is the story of everything that went down.

Missy Hyatt and Bill Alfonso – A Battle in Judge Mathis Court

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 10, 2023

In 2002, Missy Hyatt and Bill Alfonso did battle, not in the ring, but the TV courtroom of Judge Mathis. It made for one entertaining…

Debrah Miceli (Madusa and Alundra Blayze) over the years.

Blayze of Glory: The Madusa/Alundra Blayze Story

by Si Powell  Jan 18, 2023

Hers is a tale of changing the wrestling landscape, inspiring others, and, ultimately, monster trucks. This is Madusa, and here is her story.

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.

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.

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

Hulk Hogan Heel Turn and the Fan Who Tried to Attack

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

The Great Kabuki and Gary Hart: A Timeless Partnership

by Jim Phillips  Jul 12, 2025

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

Hulk Hogan winning the AWA World Heavyweight Championship remains one of the greatest "What if's" in our beloved sport's rich history.

Hulk Hogan and the AWA Championship: What If He Won?

by Benny J. Scala  Dec 21, 2023

What if Hulk Hogan become AWA Champion? A ‘What If?’ scenario that would have had an astronomical effect on the entire wrestling timeline.

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…

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.

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 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.

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.

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…

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…

They filled arenas coast to coast without a single television camera. These are the forty-two pre-TV babyfaces history nearly forgot - the good guys every TV-era star was built upon.

42 Pre-TV Wrestling Good Guys Who Built the Babyface

by Ted Holland  Apr 15, 2026

Before TV cameras rolled, these 42 babyfaces packed arenas and built the hero playbook. The pre-TV wrestling legends history nearly forgot.

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.

Jerry Lynn over the years.

Jerry Lynn: Unsung Artist of The Mat

by Ian Aldous  Oct 6, 2022

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

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!

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.

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

Muhammad Ali and Gene Kiniski: A Battle of Words!

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

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

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!

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?

25 Pro Wrestling Feuds Cut Short By Real Drama

by Jason LeBlanc  Sep 16, 2025

These 25 pro wrestling storylines were cut short by injuries, politics, and creative changes that left fans wanting more of a payoff.

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Sep 20, 2023

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

From the 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!

DDP gets the 1-2-3 victory over “Macho Man” Randy Savage at WCW’s Spring Stampede pay-per-view, April 6th, 1997.

Heartwarming Story Behind Randy Savage and DDP Feud

by Matt Pender  Feb 3, 2023

The DDP and Randy Savage match-up was memorable on-screen, but the real story behind their feud will warm your heart and make your day.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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

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

by Ian Aldous  Oct 2, 2023

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

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

13 Times Mid-Carders Main-Evented a WWE PPV

by Kevin Tanza  Jun 15, 2024

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

We had so much fun using AI technology to create these photos of wrestlers, even when the descriptions were downright outrageous! We couldn't believe the results!

AI-Generated Photos of Wrestlers: So Accurate It’s Scary!

by Braeden Farrell  Jun 5, 2026

We had much fun creating these AI-generated photos of wrestlers. Even when the descriptions were outrageous, we couldn’t believe the results!

King Kong Bundy died on March 4, 2019, at the age of 61. As it turns out, King Kong Bundy, who played a bald-headed monster on screen, was quite the opposite off-camera!

King Kong Bundy: Secret Tales on Wrestling’s Mischievous Giant

by JP Zarka  Feb 6, 2023

As it turns out, Christopher Alan Pallies, who played the bald-headed monster King Kong Bundy on screen, was quite the opposite off-camera!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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…

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.

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!

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!

When New Jack was served 7 Up instead of Sprite, he unleashed chaos, requiring 30 police officers to restore order at Philly's ECW Arena.

New Jack vs. the Concession Stand: The True Story

by Luke Marcoccia  Sep 24, 2025

When New Jack was served 7 Up instead of Sprite, he unleashed chaos, requiring 30 police officers to restore order at Philly’s ECW Arena.

Ric Flair blasts wrestling "smarks."

Ric Flair on Wrestling Fans Who Use Wrestling Terminology

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 13, 2026

Ric Flair shared some strong words against the original author of his first book and internet fans for talking like they are on the inside.

William “Happy Humphrey” Cobb went from an 800-pound wrestling attraction selling out arenas to a man with a secret that would make national headlines and change his life forever. Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

Happy Humphrey: The 800‑Pound Pro Wrestler With a Secret

by Griffin Kaye  Feb 26, 2026

Happy Humphrey, wrestling’s 800‑pound attraction, drew sellouts and underwent a record‑setting transformation outside the ring.

Tensai has a dance-off against Brodus Clay with the Funkadactyls while wearing women's lingerie on January 28th, 2013. Yes, folks, wrestling is a serious form of entertainment!

Matt Bloom as Lord Tensai – Where Did It All Go Wrong?

by Andy Smith  Jan 10, 2023

Matt Bloom as Lord Tensai went from defeating John Cena and CM Punk to dancing in women’s lingerie less than a year later. Where did…

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

Ultimate Warrior on the Deceptive Way Wrestlers Obtained PEDs

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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

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

by Tim Buckler  Jan 24, 2024

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

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!

"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!

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…

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

Nikolai Volkoff and Tito Santana – A Side Not Often Seen

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 8, 2021

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

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…

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…

Rowdy: The Roddy Piper Story | Book Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 3, 2023

We share our honest thoughts on Rowdy: The Roddy Piper Story, the unfinished autobiography Roddy started the very year that he passed away.

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.

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.

11 Wrestlers Who Walked Away After Refusing to Lose

by Griffin Kaye  Aug 16, 2024

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

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

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

by Bobby Mathews  Apr 22, 2025

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

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.

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!

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.

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

Horror Stories of Legends Entering the Wrestling Business

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 8, 2023

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

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!

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

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

by Matt Pender  Feb 7, 2023

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

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!

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…

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.

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.

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

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

by Joseph Finnegan  Aug 23, 2024

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

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…

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…

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!

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.

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

Unfortunate Fate of Mr. Kennedy’s Notorious MITB Win

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 27, 2025

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

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

Witnessing History: Andre the Giant’s 12 Best Matches

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 26, 2023

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

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.

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

19th Century Wrestling: 30 Untold Facts Revealed!

by Ruslan C. Pashayev  Oct 28, 2024

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

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!

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.’

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…

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!

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

Secret Impact of Mortal Kombat on Pro Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  Jan 25, 2023

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

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.

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.

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

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

by JP Zarka  Nov 5, 2024

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

8 Wrestlers Who Have Their Own Drink Brand

8 Wrestlers Who Have Their Own Drink Brand

by Tim Buckler  Mar 6, 2023

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

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

Rockin’ Rebel: Wrestling’s Shocking Unspoken Murder

by Griffin Kaye  Jan 10, 2023

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

Nick Aldis | The Evolution of NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion

Nick Aldis | The Evolution of NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion

by Jack O'Hara  Nov 9, 2020

At the top of the NWA mountain is Nick Aldis, whose present and future has never looked brighter. Aldis opens up about AJ Styles, WWE,…

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

Sandman Incident: Controversial Time ECW Went Too Far

by Javier Ojst  Aug 15, 2024

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

The 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.

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.

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.

"The American Giant" Buck Brezner over the years.

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

by Javier Ojst  Feb 3, 2023

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

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?

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

"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!

Scott Steiner did not just fight Diamond Dallas Page backstage in WCW in 2000. He allegedly tried to gouge out his eye, leaving permanent damage behind. Photo Credit: WWE. Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

Scott Steiner and DDP: Brutal Real-Life WCW Fight

by JP Zarka  Mar 20, 2026

When Scott Steiner made things personal in WCW, it led to a locker room fight that left Diamond Dallas Page scarred.

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.

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.

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.

On February 4th, 1986, the wrestling world and the real world came to a tragic crossroads after the body of “Gorgeous” Gino Hernandez was found dead in his condominium. He was only 29 years old. Several days had passed before WCCW referee Rick Hazzard discovered him. Shocked family members scrambled for answers, and fans mourned the loss of a heel performer they loved to hate. More than 30 years later, questions and theories still abound over what happened to Gino Hernandez on his final fateful night.

Gino Hernandez – His Tragic Death and The Mystery That Remains

by Javier Ojst  Mar 1, 2023

Gino Hernandez had the ‘it factor,’ but he was running with strong, powerful people that might not have liked certain things getting out.

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

The Kliq: 10 Tales of Their WWE Locker Room Stranglehold

by Joseph Finnegan  Jul 11, 2025

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

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.

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

1983 St Louis Wrestling War McMahon Won Doing Nothing

by Rick Fields  Aug 4, 2025

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

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

Kayfabe News Creator Becomes Wrestling Ref in New Doc

by Colin Hunter  Jun 23, 2025

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

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.

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…

Every pro wrestler verified to have competed at age 80 or older, all 13 of them. One stepped into the ring at 87. Find out who tops the list.

13 Oldest Pro Wrestlers to Ever Compete (Age 80+)

by Ethan Absler  May 4, 2026

Every pro wrestler verified to have competed at age 80 or older, all 13 of them. One stepped into the ring at 87. Find out…

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

Randy Orton and the Time He Was Attacked By a Fan

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

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

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 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!

Marty Jannetty: no stranger to controversy.

Marty Jannetty: His Secret, Turbulent Life After The Rockers

by Si Powell  Jun 1, 2026

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

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!

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

Wrestling Human Oddities: 20 Freakish Sideshow Acts

by Javier Ojst  Oct 19, 2024

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

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!

"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!

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.

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.

The WWF’s 1980s tag team division gave fans champions, contenders, villains, underdogs, and unforgettable alliances whose impact can still be felt today.

35 1980s WWF Tag Teams Who Quietly Stole The Show

by Evan Ginzburg  May 21, 2026

35 WWF 1980s tag teams who delivered big matches but rarely get credit. A look back at duos fans still talk about today.

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

Hidden Secret Behind 10 Unforgettable Wrestling Promos!

by Aaron Young  Jan 11, 2024

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

Professional wrestler Sting has inspired countless tributes and impersonations throughout wrestling history. Here’s a look at fifteen of the most memorable performers who have donned the face paint and gear of The Icon.

15 Wrestlers Who Dressed as Sting: Who Nailed It, Who Failed?

by Tim Buckler  Sep 18, 2024

Discover the 15 wrestlers who donned the face paint and gear of Sting, from tributes to storylines, celebrating the legacy of The Icon.

Veteran wrestler April Hunter weighs in and tells, from a female wrestler's perspective, whether or not Netflix GLOW gets it right.

GLOW on Netflix Through the Eyes of a Female Wrestler

by April Hunter  Jan 25, 2023

Veteran wrestler April Hunter weighs in and tells, from a female wrestler’s perspective, whether or not Netflix GLOW gets it right.

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

Shawn Michaels and the Infamous Syracuse Incident

by Griffin Kaye  Dec 15, 2025

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

"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…

CM Punk - The Shield Didn't Turn Out Originally as Planned

CM Punk Describes Initial Idea for The Shield

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 2, 2023

The Shield debuted in WWE in 2012, and according to CM Punk, the original idea for this group did not play out as planned. 

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!

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

Kofi Kingston and the Time Randy Orton Ended His WWE Push

by Christopher King  Jan 10, 2023

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

From 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.

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

The Iron Sheik-Hulk Hogan Match That Changed Wrestling Forever

by Chris Dreibelbis  Jun 7, 2023

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

The Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF) wrestling territory thrived with stars such as Jack and Jerry Brisco,

Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF): Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Apr 22, 2023

Championship Wrestling from Florida saw wrestling’s finest travel through its doors. However, it is its tragic demise that leaves its mark.

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.

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…

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!

Mitsuharu Misawa.

Mitsuharu Misawa – A Wrestling Legend Taken Too Soon

by Javier Ojst  Feb 24, 2023

Mitsuharu Misawa was only 46-years-old when he died in the ring doing what he loved. And on that evening, we lost one of wrestling’s finest.

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…

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 Mass Transit Incident remains one of the most controversial moments in ECW's history.

Mass Transit Incident: How One Match Nearly Ended ECW

by Marc Madison  Nov 18, 2025

ECW’s 1996 mass transit incident turned a house show into a brutal flashpoint that nearly destroyed the promotion.

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.

From a protégé betraying his teacher to the super kick that shattered a longtime brotherhood (and barbershop window!) to the shocking end of Hulkamania, discover the hidden stories behind fifteen pivotal heel turns that forever changed professional wrestling!

15 Unforgettable Heel Turns That Rocked Pro Wrestling!

by Kevin Tanza  Jan 29, 2024

From hero to villain: Explore the hidden stories behind 15 pivotal professional wrestling heel turns that changed the game forever!

THE MIZ and DANIEL BRYAN: Too Good To Ignore

by Joseph Finnegan  Jul 7, 2022

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

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!

8 Wrestlers Who Surprisingly Main-Evented A WWE PPV

8 Wrestlers Who Surprisingly Main-Evented A WWE PPV

by Griffin Kaye  Nov 7, 2022

The main event of WWE pay-per-views often contains some of the biggest names in the business. However, these grapplers may surprise you! 

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.

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!

Bret Hart had endless accolades in his career, but his match against Tom Magee in 1986 may have been his most impressive achievement to date!

Bret Hart and Tom Magee: Finding Wrestling’s ‘Holy Grail’

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 27, 2023

Bret Hart had endless accolades in his career, but his match against Tom Magee in 1986 may have been his most impressive achievement to date!

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

Bobby Eaton: Secret History of a Beautiful Wrestler

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 16, 2023

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

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!

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.

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…

Ivan Koloff over the years.

Ivan Koloff: Secret Untold Tale of a Beloved Wrestling Heel

by Benny J. Scala  Apr 17, 2025

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

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.

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!

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.

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

20 Nostalgic Wrestling Photos That Will Take You Back!

by Braeden Farrell  Jun 5, 2026

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

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 Four Pillars of Heaven of All Japan Pro Wrestling: Mitsuharu Misawa, Kenta Kobashi, Toshiaki Kawada, and Akira Taue.

Four Pillars of Heaven of All Japan – Magic at the Budokan

by Archie Pain  May 5, 2022

On June 9th, 1995, The Four Pillars of Heaven of All Japan Pro Wrestling came together and made something truly magical.

"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.

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  Apr 7, 2026

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!

Legends of professional wrestling: Bruno Sammartino and Freddie Blassie.

Bruno Sammartino and Freddie Blassie – Too Real for the Mob

by Bobby Mathews  Jun 8, 2026

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

The Superkick Heard 'Round the World! Shawn Michaels superkicks Marty Jannetty before propelling him through Brutus Beefcake's barber shop window on WWF Wrestling Challenge on January 11th, 1992. The Superkick always gets a great reaction, so why's it so polarizing? Here's the surprising history of wrestling's most controversial move!

Superkick: The History of Wrestling’s Most Loved/Hated Move

by Tim Buckler  Jan 30, 2023

The Superkick always gets a great reaction, so why’s it so polarizing? Here’s the surprising history of wrestling’s most controversial move!

Herb Abrams built the UWF to take on WWE. Instead, his dream unraveled through empty arenas, bounced checks, personal chaos, and a final night that still feels almost impossible to believe.

Herb Abrams’ UWF: The Wrestling Dream Gone Wrong

by Josh Mohammed  Apr 28, 2026

Herb Abrams built the UWF to rival WWE. Empty arenas, chaos, and a notorious final night turned it into one of wrestling’s starkest warnings.

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.

A young fan breaks down inside Osaka-jō Hall on August 28, 1985. She was not alone. More than 11,000 came for the hair vs. hair match between Chigusa Nagayo and Dump Matsumoto. What they witnessed was something no one had prepared for.

Dump Matsumoto vs. Crush Gals: A Dark Chapter in Japan

by Rutvik Keche  May 5, 2026

They engineered the hatred. They lost control of it. The full story of Dump Matsumoto, the Crush Gals, and 1980s Japan.

Adrian Adonis over the years.

Adrian Adonis: His Remarkable Career and Tragic End

by Jim Phillips  Mar 3, 2026

Adrian Adonis was audacious, arrogant, and truly one of the best. Sadly, he’d perish in a freak accident. This is his unforgettable story.

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.

Reid Flair and His Impact on the Women’s Revolution in WWE

by Mason Epeneter  Jul 7, 2022

Reid Flair would’ve turned 30 back in February, and yet, not many people talk about his legacy and the impact he had on WWE’s Women’s…

The WWE Niagara Falls complex on Clifton Hill ran from 2002 to 2011, anchored by The Pile Driver - a 220-foot drop tower and the only WWE-branded thrill ride ever built.

WWE Niagara Falls: The Lost Pile Driver Ride

by Tim Buckler  Apr 1, 2026

WWE Niagara Falls built a 220-foot Pile Driver drop tower. Discover how WWE’s only thrill ride opened, stalled, and vanished.

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.

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?

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.

From its first use in the early 1900s to its evolution to today, dive into the rich history and secrets behind wrestling entrance theme music!

Secret History of Entrance Theme Music in Wrestling

by Jeff Frantom  Jan 26, 2024

From its first use in the early 1900s to its evolution to today, dive into the rich history and secrets behind wrestling entrance theme music!

RIP, my friend. Josip Nikolai Peruzović, better known by his ring name of Nikolai Volkoff. October 14, 1947 - July 29, 2018.

Nikolai Volkoff: Secret Tales of a Wrestling Legend

by Evan Ginzburg  Apr 22, 2023

Nikolai Volkoff was a caring man and one of the few in this business that nobody, not a single soul, could ever say a bad…

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.

Jos LeDuc was one of the nicest guys in the dressing room. But when he got in front of the camera, there was no telling what the Canadian lumberjack would do.

“Who Is Wrestling’s Greatest-Ever Monster Heel?” | Ask PWS

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 12, 2023

We were recently asked, “Who is wrestling’s greatest monster heel wrestler of all time?” This got us thinking about the territory days…

The 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!

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.

Mean Gene Okerlund stands beside the mysterious giant egg at Survivor Series 1990 as the Hartford Civic Center as the crowd buzzes over WWE’s bold Thanksgiving gamble that would hatch the Gobbledy Gooker.

Gobbledy Gooker: WWE’s Thanksgiving Gamble

by JP Zarka  Nov 27, 2025

Discover the wild story of Survivor Series 1990: The Undertaker’s debut and WWE’s shocking Thanksgiving gamble, the Gobbledy Gooker!

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!

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.

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.

The Grand Wizard of Wrestling – Ernie Roth Remembered

by Evan Ginzburg  May 26, 2022

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

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.

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

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

by Griffin Kaye  Apr 22, 2025

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

Kurt Angle forces Shawn Michaels to tap out with the Angle Lock at WrestleMania 21 on April 3, 2005 - the culmination of a rivalry that began with one of wrestling’s most awkward backstage introductions.

Kurt Angle and Shawn Michaels’ Embarrassing First Encounter

by JP Zarka  May 18, 2026

It was 2002. Kurt Angle was waiting for Shawn Michaels backstage. He had something to say – and he probably should have kept it to…

Bobby Heenan and Nick Bockwinkel Incident in Chicago

Bobby Heenan and Nick Bockwinkel Incident in Chicago

by JP Zarka  May 4, 2026

In 1975, a terrifying situation occurred in Chicago, and Bobby Heenan, Nick Bockwinkel, and Verne Gagne were lucky to leave with their lives.

The incomparable Jim Johnston.

Jim Johnston – The Man Behind Legendary WWE Theme Songs

by Christopher King  Feb 3, 2022

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

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

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

by Archie Pain  Mar 16, 2025

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

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.

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!

Who would be more fitting a subject for a WWE Legends documentary than “The bull of the woods, if you will?” But did the Dusty Rhodes A&E Biography capture "The American Dream"?

Dusty Rhodes A&E Biography: An Honest Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 3, 2023

Learn if the Dusty Rhodes A&E Biography captured “The American Dream” in this documentary review by an award-winning wrestling documentarian.

These courageous wrestlers sacrificed their lives for the sake of others, even when it meant putting their own lives in danger.

Amazing Acts of Heroism by Wrestlers Outside the Ring

by Marc Madison  Mar 19, 2024

These courageous wrestlers sacrificed their lives for the sake of others, even when it meant putting their own lives in danger.

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.

JP Zarka of ProWrestlingStories.com joins Brian Tramel on the “Shootin’ The Shiznit" podcast

JP Zarka of ProWrestlingStories.com Interview

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 13, 2022

JP Zarka of ProWrestlingStories.com joins Brian for a new episode of Shootin’ The Shiznit. Coliseum videos, wrestling books, the creation of PWS, and more!

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!

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

13 Christmas Wrestling Moments: The Good, Bad & Bizarre

by Kevin Tanza  Dec 16, 2024

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

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.

Joe Scarpa, who gained wrestling fame as Chief Jay Strongbow.

Chief Jay Strongbow and His Notorious Backstage Reputation

by Griffin Kaye  May 29, 2026

Chief Jay Strongbow was one of the most revered workers in the industry. However, there are many shocking tales about him behind the scenes!

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.

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.

“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.

Marvel Comics and the Money They Made off Hulk Hogan

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 19, 2023

There were countless ways Marvel Comics made money off of Hulk Hogan between the years of 1984 and 2004! But just how much?

A great way to look good and support the site!

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jun 5, 2026

We’re very excited to now be offering Pro Wrestling Stories t-shirts from PWSTees.com! If you’ve been sucked right in and love what we’re doing here,…

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…

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.

"The Big Valbowski" Val Venis

Val Venis and the Time WWE Filmed Two Adult Film Stars

by Luke Marcoccia  Sep 24, 2025

In 1998, WWE filmed Val Venis with a top adult star. The footage was so explicit that Vince McMahon vaulted it, but the tale lives…

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!

“Sensational” Sherri Martel was just that- utterly sensational. One of the greatest female wrestlers, manager/valets, and personalities ever to step foot in the ring. She was beloved in the industry, and her tragic death in 2007 at only 49 years old was among our most painful losses. But what was she truly like behind the scenes?

Sherri Martel: Secret History of a True Sensation

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 24, 2023

“Sensational” Sherri Martel was just that- utterly sensational. But what was her life truly like outside the ring?

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.

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!

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.

Buff Bagwell - His Tumultuous Life in and Out of the Ring

Buff Bagwell – A Tumultuous Life in and Out of the Ring

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 10, 2023

He called himself “The Stuff,” and he found himself caught up in a lot of it. Here’s a look at the tumultuous life of Marcus…

Shocking Times Andre the Giant Made Life Miserable For Wrestlers

by Matt Pender  Jan 30, 2023

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

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.

With Michael Cole caught in the middle, the tension between Booker T and Corey Graves was palpable!

Corey Graves and Booker T Feud That Fooled the Business

by Braeden Farrell  Jul 23, 2024

This feud between Booker T and Corey Graves fooled media outlets, talent, fans, and even their commentary partner, Michael Cole!

"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.

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

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 10, 2023

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

Shawn Michaels, the notorious "bad boy" from the past, compares today's wrestlers to those he shared a locker room with in the past.

Shawn Michaels on What Today’s WWE Wrestlers Are Missing

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Apr 9, 2026

Shawn Michaels opens up about what today’s WWE wrestlers are missing – and why the business may be suffering because of it.

Sean Waltman (as Ric Flair) and Kevin Nash (as Arn Anderson) spoof the Four Horsemen on September 1st, 1997's Monday Nitro.

Arn Anderson on the nWo Spoof That Hurt His Family

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

A week after Arn Anderson retired, the nWo went on TV to mock him. What followed, to this day, is divisive amongst fans and those…

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

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

by Heishin Ko  Dec 12, 2020

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

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

William Regal: Plane Ride Scandal that Led to 1997 Arrest

by Matt Roberts  Nov 26, 2024

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

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.

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…

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!

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.

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.

"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.

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.

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…

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!

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.

From the real-life wrestler who helped shape Superman’s iconic look to WCW’s “Big Poppa Pump” flaunting the Man of Steel’s logo, and the late Ashley Massaro battling in Smallville, Superman and wrestling have collided in fascinating ways for decades!

Wrestling’s Superman Secret: 12 Untold Crossover Tales

by Tim Buckler  Aug 12, 2025

Superman and wrestling collide in 12 mind-blowing crossovers spanning decades. Discover hidden connections and untold 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.

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

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

by Joseph Finnegan  Feb 3, 2023

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

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.

Turner executive Richard Steinberg shares 27 behind-the-scenes road stories, ribs, and disasters from WCW's wildest era.

Inside WCW: 27 Wild Tales From a Turner Executive

by Richard Steinberg  Mar 10, 2026

Turner executive Richard Steinberg shares 27 behind-the-scenes road stories, ribs, and disasters from WCW’s wildest era.

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.

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!

Why Vince McMahon Needs To Set His Wrestlers Free

by JP Zarka  Nov 7, 2019

Using recent commentary and statements from legends in the past, we offer up a challenge to Vince McMahon – set your wrestlers free.

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

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

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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.

These eleven legends are more than worthy of a WWE Hall of Fame induction but have been done wrong despite being on their radar for years.

10 Legends Who Deserve to Be in the WWE Hall of Fame

by Evan Ginzburg  Mar 5, 2026

These 10 legends dominated the ring but are snubbed by the WWE Hall of Fame. Discover who they are and why they deserve recognition!

From top left: Ethel Johnson, Marva Scott, Kathleen Wimbley, Babs Wingo, Louise Greene, Ramona Isbell, Virginia Franklin, and Carroll Cullom. They wrestled in secret, dodged danger, and rewrote history: Discover 25 Black women who built pro wrestling’s golden era.

25 Black Women Who Built 1950s and ’60s Wrestling

by Ted Holland  May 29, 2026

They wrestled in secret, dodged danger, and rewrote history: 25 Black women who built pro wrestling’s golden era.

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!

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…

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.

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!

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…

Kayfabe News creator Colin Hunter reveals how a site built for two readers became wrestling's most-read satire destination — and a new book. Photo Credit: Colin Hunter / Oliver Books.

Inside Kayfabe News: The Onion of Pro Wrestling

by Colin Hunter  Mar 9, 2026

Kayfabe News creator Colin Hunter reveals how a site built for two readers became wrestling’s most-read satire destination — and a new book.

Christopher Whaley, The Masked Saint: Pastor, Wrestler, and Real-Life Vigilante.

The Masked Saint: Pastor, Wrestler, and Real-Life Vigilante

by Benny J. Scala  Sep 27, 2023

Discover the untold tale of The Masked Saint, Christopher Whaley: a wrestler, pastor, and vigilante whose actions impacted many lives.

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.

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

13 Pro Wrestling Legends Who Mastered Visual Drama

by Dale Pierce  Nov 18, 2025

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

A shot from the legendary Jimmy Snuka vs. Don Muraco steel cage match at Madison Square Garden, October 17th, 1983.

Jimmy Snuka and Don Muraco – The Legendary Moment Remembered

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 28, 2021

Fans witnessing the Jimmy Snuka and Don Muraco match never experienced anything like it. And in the many years since, fans haven’t forgotten.

Wrestler Dr. Jerry Graham.

The Tragic Tale of Wrestler Dr. Jerry Graham

by Bobby Mathews  Mar 10, 2023

Dr. Jerry Graham was the favorite wrestler of young Vince McMahon. In 1969, he would be involved in one of wrestling’s most tragic stories.

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…

Macho Man Randy Savage just wanted Waffle House. A cowboy, Nashville police, and a K9 turned it into a real fight he could not walk away from.

Macho Man Randy Savage Waffle House Brawl In Nashville

by JP Zarka  May 1, 2026

Randy Savage just wanted Waffle House. A cowboy, Nashville police, and a K9 turned it into a real fight he could not walk away from.

Wrestling Party Themed Birthday Party

by Sophie Baker  Nov 7, 2019

A wrestling party theme is perfect for younger fans. Turn your house into the squared circle with your birthday superstar at the center of it…

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