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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.

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

Matt Hardy Almost Dies | Remembering Remember November

by Stosh Jonjak  Jan 10, 2023

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

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…

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.

Gerald Brisco consoles Brock Lesnar backstage at WrestleMania 19.

Brock Lesnar Nearly Plunged WrestleMania 19 into Tragedy

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

Twenty-three wrestlers across five continents bodyslammed Andre the Giant a confirmed 30 times before and after WrestleMania III - here is the full documented record.

30 Times Andre the Giant Was Bodyslammed

by JP Zarka  Jun 12, 2026

Before Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania III, 23 wrestlers had already done it. Here are 30 confirmed times Andre the Giant was bodyslammed.

The Texas Outlaws: Dick Murdoch and Dusty Rhodes.

Tales of The Texas Outlaws Dick Murdoch and Dusty Rhodes

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Mar 9, 2023

A particular choice of clothing led to The Texas Outlaws, Dick Murdoch and Dusty Rhodes, getting fired from the Australian territory in 1969!

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!

Sam Houston | A Wrestler Coming to Terms With His Past

Sam Houston | A Wrestler Coming to Terms With His Past

by Jim Phillips  Mar 10, 2023

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

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…

Hulk Hogan and Jake Roberts in a "Snake Pit" segment on Wrestling Challenge, November 23rd, 1986

Hulk Hogan and Jake Roberts: Why Vince Rejected Their Feud

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

In 1986, Hulk Hogan and Jake Roberts were gearing up for a big feud on television before Vince McMahon nixed the idea. Both men explain…

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

Sid Vicious and the Infamous Squeegee Incident

by JP Zarka  Jan 23, 2023

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

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…

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

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

by Matt Pender  Apr 3, 2025

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

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 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.

Ian Matthew Harper (aka Colonel Harper) opens up about his war into the crazy world of professional wrestling! [Photos by Jenn Moore. Copyright: World Wrestling Alliance]

My War Into The Crazy World of Wrestling

by Ian Matthew Harper  Feb 2, 2022

A middle school social studies teacher’s journey into the crazy world of professional wrestling and the wars he faced getting there.

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

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

by John Harris  Jan 15, 2025

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

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.

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…

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

Pat Roach: From British Wrestling Champion to Hollywood Legend

by Tim Buckler  Nov 17, 2025

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

Iron Mike Tyson raises Stone Cold Steve Austin's hand in victory after winning his first WWF Championship at WrestleMania 14 in 1998.

Stone Cold Steve Austin’s First WWF Title Reign: The Untold Story

by Cameron Dennis Gorrie  Jan 9, 2025

Uncover the untold stories of Stone Cold Steve Austin’s iconic first WWF Championship reign—there’s more to the story than fans may realize!

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

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

by Christa Pagliei  Jun 25, 2021

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

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!

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.

"The Iron Sheik" Hossein Khosrow Ali Vaziri with his daughter Marissa. Sadly, at 27, she would be brutally murdered. Her father soon vowed revenge on the killer.

Iron Sheik: A Daughter’s Murder, a Father’s Vengeance

by Javier Ojst  Nov 15, 2024

The Iron Sheik suffered awful tragedy in 2003 – the heartbreaking murder of his daughter, Marissa. He soon decided he would kill her murderer.

The Mid-South Wrestling Association wrestling territory thrived with the cast of "Cowboy" Bill Watts, Boyd Pierce, Mr. Olympia, The Junkyard Dog, Jim Ross, Jim Cornette, Bobby Eaton, and Dennis Condrey of The Midnight Express, Buddy Landel, Mr. Wrestling II, Magnum T.A., Ted DiBiase, Dr. Death Steve Williams, Robert Gibson and Ricky Morton of The Rock 'n' Roll Express, Kamala, Butch Read, Hacksaw Jim Duggan, and a host of others.

Mid-South Wrestling Association | The Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Mar 10, 2023

Mid-South Wrestling Association was one of the hottest wrestling promotions of the 1980s. Its ultimate demise leaves its mark in history.

“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?”

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

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

by Matt Pender  Jul 7, 2022

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

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

Shocking In-Ring Return of Shawn Michaels in 2000

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 19, 2023

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

Discover 10 times nWo and DX indirectly competed: secret clashes, betrayals, and behind-the-scenes battles that rewrote wrestling history.

nWo vs. DX: 10 Times They Indirectly Competed

by Aarij Arifeen  Oct 17, 2025

Discover 10 times nWo and DX indirectly competed: secret clashes, betrayals, and behind-the-scenes battles that rewrote wrestling history.

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…

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.

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

Jackass and Their Strange History With WWE

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

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

Wrestling icon "Razor Ramon" Scott Hall.

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

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

Vince McMahon was hopelessly in love. And after just one phone call, McMahon was rendered powerless to his fancied mystery man. What McMahon's heart wanted was Evel Knievel. What he got was a disaster!

Vince McMahon and Evel Knievel’s Doomed Partnership

by Stosh Jonjak  May 21, 2025

In 1974, Vince McMahon bet big on Evel Knievel… and it nearly ruined him. A fiery stunt, a riot, and a lesson that shaped his…

The 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.

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

Inside The Bushwhackers’ Wild Early Struggles

by Matt Pender  May 31, 2023

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

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

Chris Jericho on John Cena’s Unexpected Rescue in Alaska

by JP Zarka  Jan 25, 2023

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

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.

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…

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

Kayfabe in Wrestling: Stories Fans Shouldn’t Know

by JP Zarka  Feb 13, 2023

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

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.

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?

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

Alex Wright and Paul Roma: When Pro Wrestling Turned Real

by Ian Aldous  Sep 17, 2024

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

DDP - How Diamond Dallas Page Went Against All Odds

DDP – How Diamond Dallas Page Went Against All Odds

by Ian Aldous  Aug 30, 2022

Little was expected of DDP when he started wrestling at 35, yet he’d soon become a superstar. However, one dream feud would forever elude him.

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!

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!

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.

Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels discuss the behind-the-scenes build-up to their Wrestlemania 14 main event match.

Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels – Surprising Details Behind Their Feud

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

Shawn Michaels wasn’t easy to get along with, and Steve Austin was never satisfied with his championship win at WrestleMania 14. Here’s why.

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  Jun 23, 2026

From his unceremonious WWE departure, to achieving his dream as a commentator, and more, this unheard Matt Striker interview is not to miss!

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 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!

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.

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!

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.

Kane and Christian: A friendship filled with unexpected moments that defy the norm!

Kane and Christian: Wrestling’s Most Dysfunctional Friendship

by Tim Buckler  Sep 20, 2024

Kane and Christian’s friendship is a wild ride of twists and turns. Explore the unlikely bond that will change your view of both wrestlers!

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?

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.

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…

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 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.

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!

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!

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Sep 26, 2024

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

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.

At WrestleMania 12, Ultimate Warrior crushed Triple H in 99 seconds, igniting years of animosity and behind-the-scenes backlash.

Ultimate Warrior vs. Triple H: A 99-Second WrestleMania Disaster

by Richard Thompson  Jun 22, 2025

At WrestleMania 12, Ultimate Warrior crushed Triple H in 99 seconds, igniting years of animosity and behind-the-scenes backlash.

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

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Apr 17, 2025

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

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. 

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Dec 8, 2023

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

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.

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!

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.

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.

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 Young Backs as "Generation Me" in TNA.

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

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 27, 2025

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

Ted DiBiase showing off his Million Dollar Championship belt. [Photo courtesy of WWE.com]

Ted DiBiase – The Art of Being a Million Dollar Heel

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

Ted DiBiase talks about the money, what it takes to be a good heel and why he never won a world championship while in the…

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…

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.

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.

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.

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!

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…

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!

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?

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

Asuka and Her Surprising Life Outside of Wrestling

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 11, 2023

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

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

Wrestlers Who Made Face Paint Fashionable!

by Tim Buckler  Jan 6, 2023

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

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

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

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

Intimidating Moments Vince McMahon Had with WWE Wrestlers

by JP Zarka  May 20, 2023

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

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.

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.

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!

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

10 Devastating WWE Finishing Moves That Deserve More Love

by Richard Thompson  Sep 12, 2024

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

Kurt Angle 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…

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!

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

The Strange Case of Manny Fernandez vs. Invader 3

by Javier Ojst  Apr 4, 2024

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

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…

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,…

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.

Jack Brisco (left) as NWA World Heavyweight Champion in the 1970s, Jack and Gerald Brisco together during their celebrated run as one of professional wrestling's most decorated tag teams, and Gerald Brisco in recent years. From a Trail of Tears family in Oklahoma to championship gold, the halls of WWE, and a legacy that spans more than six decades - this is Gerald Brisco's story.

Gerald Brisco: The Untold Story of a Champion’s Life

by Jim Phillips  Jun 24, 2026

Gerald Brisco opens up on his Chickasaw roots, Jack’s NWA reign, the Attitude Era, and a legacy built across 50+ unforgettable years.

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.

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.

Bobby Heenan | The Gold Standard in Wrestling

Bobby Heenan – The Gold Standard in Wrestling

by JP Zarka  Jul 7, 2022

We honor Bobby Heenan by sharing some memorable stories by the legend himself and by the people who knew him best.

A nostalgic look back at the legendary Showdown at Shea featuring icons like Muhammad Ali, Pedro Morales, Bruno Sammartino, Hulk Hogan, and Andre the Giant! 

Showdown at Shea: Epic Tale of WWE’s First Supercards

by Benny J. Scala  Mar 19, 2023

In the days before WrestleMania, these three epic Showdown at Shea events marked the first unmissable grand-scale events from WWE!

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.

Beware of the anti-social behavior of Mr. Hughes!

Mr. Hughes and the WCW Traveling Circus in Europe

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

Pro wrestling is a community roaming place to place with squabbles quickly resolved and forgotten – unless you’re with Mr. Hughes!

'The Advocate' Paul Heyman and 'The Beast' Brock Lesnar

Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman – Behind Their Deep Bond

by Joseph Finnegan  Jul 7, 2022

The bond between Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman runs deep. Here is how their fate aligned to become one of the greatest duos of all…

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…

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.

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.

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…

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.

From Daredevil to Gene Simmons, The Flash to The Terminator, here is a look back at many nods Rey Mysterio has made to pop culture icons over the years!

Rey Mysterio Tributes You May Not Have Noticed!

by Tim Buckler  Jan 6, 2023

Rey Mysterio has made nods to many pop culture icons throughout the years. Here are 14 examples you may not have noticed!

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

Ric Flair and Terry Funk: A Feud to Remember

by Javier Ojst  Jan 25, 2023

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

From 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.

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.

"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.

Chris Jericho pondering the meaning of life mid-match against Fandango at Wrestlemania 29.

Chris Jericho and Fandango – The Truth Behind WrestleMania Loss

by James Klonowski  Jan 10, 2023

WrestleMania 29 turned upside down for Chris Jericho when he was told he would have to lose to Fandango. It almost led to him quitting…

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…

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.

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

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

by Benny J. Scala  Nov 12, 2024

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

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…

ECW announcer Joey Styles built his career calling other people's fights. On a 2008 WWE flight home from an overseas troops tour, he gave JBL (John Bradshaw Layfield) one of his own.

JBL and Joey Styles’ Brutal Real-Life Fight on a Plane

by JP Zarka  May 12, 2026

Nobody on that flight expected Joey Styles to be the one. The real story of the fight between JBL (John Bradshaw Layfield) and Joey Styles.

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

Wrestling Injuries That Shattered 3 WWE Careers

by Joseph Finnegan  Aug 30, 2024

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

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

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

by Dr. Mike Lano  Apr 28, 2022

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

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!

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.

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

13 Wrestling Legends Share Thoughts on Brodie Lee

by Aarij Arifeen  Sep 24, 2024

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

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

The Ultimate Warrior and The Story of His Final Match

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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.

"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!

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.

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!

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 1, 2024

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

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.

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

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

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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…

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.

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!

Killer Kowalski over the years.

Killer Kowalski: Secret Tales of a Wrestling Legend

by Evan Ginzburg  Apr 22, 2023

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

Jim Cornette and The Midnight Express Attack Baby Doll

Jim Cornette and The Midnight Express Attack Baby Doll

by Jason Lane  Jan 10, 2023

Jim Cornette and The Midnight Express attacking Baby Doll was one of the most vile moments in professional wrestling history.

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

Mad Maxine: Mohawks, Moolah, and Her Surprising Story

by Javier Ojst  Jan 17, 2023

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

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.

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

Bruno Sammartino and Buddy Rogers – The 1963 WWWF Title Screwjob

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Mar 12, 2023

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

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!

The Yeti in WCW - What Was That All About?

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

by JP Zarka  Nov 17, 2025

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

The 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 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.

John Morrison (then known as Johnny Nitro) with Melina. WWE SummerSlam Tour, Melbourne, Australia, August 5th, 2006.

John Morrison | His Up and Down First Run in WWE

by Si Powell  Aug 11, 2021

The first run in WWE for John Morrison was full of athletic exploits, name changes, and a controversy that soon led to his release.

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!

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.

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 ever-unpredictable New Jack.

New Jack: Secret History on Wrestling’s Most Violent Man

by Javier Ojst  Jun 23, 2025

New Jack made a name for himself as one of the business’s most dangerous and unpredictable wrestlers. This is his shocking story!

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?

At WCW Uncensored ’95, “The Natural” Dustin Rhodes and Blacktop Bully (Barry Darsow) clashed in the infamous King of the Road Match; a one-of-a-kind, high-risk battle atop a moving 18-wheeler that remains one of wrestling’s most notorious gimmick matches.

Infamous King Of The Road Match at WCW Uncensored ’95

by Ash Jacob  Jun 19, 2025

The King of the Road Match at WCW Uncensored ’95: An infamous, one-of-a-kind brawl in a moving 18-wheeler that cost two stars their jobs.

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!

Here are five supernatural wrestling gimmicks in WWE that have incorporated elements of the unknown that have left fans in horror!

Unveil the Paranormal: 5 WWE Supernatural Gimmicks Exposed

by Aaron Young  Jul 10, 2023

Brace yourself as we reveal the surprising story behind five wrestlers who embraced the paranormal with these supernatural gimmicks!

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!

Owen Hart and Kurt Angle - Wrestling’s Current Holy Grail

Owen Hart and Kurt Angle – Wrestling’s Current Holy Grail

by Joey Mills  Jan 10, 2023

When Kurt Angle faced Owen Hart on May 10th, 1999, he learned more than a lesson in the ring. Tragically, Owen would pass away 13…

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…

The prankster, Hornswoggle.

Hornswoggle – The Unlikely Backstage Ribber!

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jul 7, 2022

Hornswoggle has been regarded as many things. Though, according to former co-workers, he is known for something you might not think!

Owen Hart Talks About His Career

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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.

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

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

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 27, 2024

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

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!

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.

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

Wrestling Deviants Jailed for Shocking Abuse

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 27, 2023

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

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.

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…

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.

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

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

by Braeden Farrell  Oct 7, 2024

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

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Jun 3, 2025

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

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!

Terrible Ted the Wrestling Bear had a near 20-year career across North America - from the Hart family porch to a county jail cell.

Terrible Ted The Wrestling Bear’s Wild Run Across North America

by JP Zarka  Jun 11, 2026

Terrible Ted the Wrestling Bear had a near 20-year career across North America – from the Hart family porch to a county jail cell.

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.

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!

Lita (Amy Dumas) over the years.

Lita: From Champion to Survivor, Her Untold Journey

by Alexa Pruett  Jun 29, 2023

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

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…

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.

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…

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.

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

Sean Waltman on Who Helped Wrestlers Beat a Drug Test

by Matt Pender  Mar 8, 2023

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

Hulk Hogan and Sting face off at WCW Starrcade 1997.

Hulk Hogan and Sting – The Mess at WCW Starrcade 1997

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 10, 2023

Hollywood Hulk Hogan and Sting at WCW Starrcade 1997 was the biggest match of either man’s career. And it failed. Terribly. Here’s why.

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.

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

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

by Ian Aldous  Mar 20, 2023

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

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!

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…

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…

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.

GLOW's Roxy Astor over the years.

Roxy Astor – GLOW Wrestler on Her Unlikely Journey

by Jim Phillips  Mar 10, 2023

Roxy Astor shares her unlikely journey into wrestling and what it was like to be a part of the history of GLOW.

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.

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…

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!

Many pro wrestling matches have occurred in arenas, Elks Lodges, VFWs, and even bingo halls. But it takes a mad genius to think outside the box to take wrestling to these locations!

Wrestling’s Most Shocking and Unusual Match Locations

by Ethan Absler  Jan 12, 2023

Many pro wrestling matches have occurred in unique places. But it takes a mad genius to think to take wrestling to THESE locations!

2 Plane Crash Tragedies that Changed Wrestling Forever

2 Plane Crash Tragedies that Changed Wrestling Forever

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Feb 20, 2026

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

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!

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

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

by Christopher King  Jun 24, 2021

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

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.

Strike Force: Tito Santana and Rick Martel.

Tito Santana and Rick Martel: Rise and Demise of Strike Force

by Matt Pender  May 7, 2025

Tito Santana and Rick Martel thrived as Strike Force but were doomed with a gimmick that killed their momentum. This is their story.

"Mr. Wonderful" Paul Orndorff.

Paul Orndorff – How a Social Media Movement Saved His Home

by Ron Matejko  May 21, 2026

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

"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!

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.

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.

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!

"Oh, what a disaster!" The Road Warriors were as over as any tag team ever, and there were many clones of the mighty duo along the way!

Wrestling Tag Teams Inspired by The Road Warriors

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 30, 2023

The Road Warriors were as over as any tag team ever, and there were many clones of the mighty duo along the way (for better…

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.

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.

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!

"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.

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.

Leon White (who would later become Big Van Vader) had many stiff run-ins with Bruiser Brody in and out of the ring early on in his career.

Vader’s Shocking Rookie Error Against Bruiser Brody

by Javier Ojst  Jul 13, 2023

Discover the shocking tale of the adversity Big Van Vader had to overcome against Bruiser Brody early in his career.

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.

DJ Rellik (AKA Alan Banks) recently had Pro Wrestling Stories founder JP Zarka on a special edition of Songs From The Squared Circle.

JP Zarka of Pro Wrestling Stories on Songs from the Squared Circle

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 13, 2022

JP Zarka of Pro Wrestling Stories joins Alan Banks on Songs from the Squared Circle to talk wrestling stories, WrestleMania moments, and more!

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

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

by Tim Buckler  Oct 5, 2024

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

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!

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.

The Times When Wrestling Took It Too Far

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

The WWE has given us decades of entertainment in the form of staged aggression and enthralling stories, yet there are times when wrestling has gone…

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!

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.

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!

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

11 Shared Wrestling Nicknames: Who Wore It Better?

by Griffin Kaye  Oct 22, 2024

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

Bruno Sammartino over the years.

Bruno Sammartino – “Our Forever Champ” Remembered

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 16, 2023

If you saw Bruno Sammartino live – where the love for this impossibly charismatic man was palpable – you’ll never forget the deafening roars.

El Santo and Black Shadow.

El Santo, Black Shadow, and the Curious Case of a Lost Mask

by Javier Ojst  May 15, 2024

The “Mother of All Betting Matches” saw Black Shadow losing his mask to El Santo. Mystery and controversy still surround what happened next.

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.

Kenta Kobashi put his health and life on the line when he faced "Dr. Death" Steve Williams on August 31st, 1993, on night ten of the AJPW Summer Action Series II at the City Gymnasium in Toyohashi, Aichi, Japan.

Steve Williams and Kenta Kobashi: A Night of Danger

by Tony M. Caro  Jan 10, 2023

When Steve Williams faced Kenta Kobashi in 1993, The Dangerous Backdrop lived up to its name. Kobashi faced permanent paralysis and his life.

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

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

by Cameron Shank  Feb 20, 2023

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

Inside the brutal Macho Man Randy Savage and Bill Dundee parking lot brawl that left one man with a broken face.

Randy Savage and Bill Dundee’s Real-Life Parking Lot Brawl

by Geries Tadros  May 8, 2026

Inside the brutal Macho Man Randy Savage and Bill Dundee parking lot brawl that left one man with a broken face.

Gorilla Monsoon - Remembering "The Manchurian Giant"

Gorilla Monsoon – Remembering “The Manchurian Giant”

by Evan Ginzburg  Oct 25, 2023

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

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.

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…

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.

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

Triple H: 4 Career-Threatening Injuries That Tested The Game

by Braeden Farrell  Jun 11, 2026

Triple H faced four career-threatening injuries across 30 years. Discover how The Game pushed through each defining ordeal in his own words.

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…

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.

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

Uncovering the Facts About the Musical Past of Hulk Hogan

by JP Zarka  Mar 3, 2023

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

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

My Wild Weekend At The Iron Sheik’s House

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 12, 2023

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

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.

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!

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)!

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…

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.

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.​

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!

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

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

by JP Zarka  Jan 8, 2026

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

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

The Day Stan Hansen Got a Taste of His Own Medicine

by Matt Pender  Sep 13, 2024

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

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!

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

Jumping Bomb Angels: 15 Stories Fans Overlook

by Samantha Schneider-Crouse  Jan 30, 2026

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

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.

In 1989, Koko B. Ware and WWF executive Jim Troy had a heated confrontation that escalated into a violent hotel brawl during a European tour, leading to ramifications for both men.

Koko B. Ware’s Violent Brawl with a WWE Executive

by Griffin Kaye  Oct 9, 2024

Koko B. Ware’s violent hotel brawl with this WWE executive in 1989 led to surprising consequences, exposing a darker side of the “Birdman.”

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.

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.

Wrestling’s Generation Gap- Ric Flair vs. Ricochet: Then vs. Now

by Evan Ginzburg  May 26, 2022

Will old school fans ever respect a Ricochet, and would today’s fans truly appreciate a ring general like Ric Flair or Jack Brisco?

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.

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?

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

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

by Kelvin Vega  Jul 9, 2025

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

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…

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.

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…

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.

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.

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…

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!

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

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

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

How Harley Race and Sting Tamed Monster Vader in WCW

by Javier Ojst  Apr 5, 2026

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

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

Extreme Cases of Wrestlers Protecting Their Gimmicks

by Griffin Kaye  Apr 8, 2025

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

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

Kevin Nash: WWE Travel Pranks, Backstage Secrets

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 1, 2025

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

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…

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…

"Handsome" Jimmy Valiant over the years.

Jimmy Valiant – The Story of the Handsome Boogie Woogie Man

by Benny J. Scala  Mar 29, 2023

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

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

Brock Lesnar and Chris Jericho Fight – What Really Happened

by Harvey Dix  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

7 Hall of Fame Stories WWE Prefers Not Told

by Griffin Kaye  May 29, 2025

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

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.

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

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

by Geries Tadros  Aug 28, 2024

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

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.

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!

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…

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.

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

The Nasty Boys and Ken Shamrock Hotel Incident

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

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!

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

Wrestlers Who Live Unique Lives Outside of the Ring

by Braeden Farrell  May 25, 2023

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

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…

Before his passing, professional wrestler George The Animal Steele opened up about his secret life on the side.

George The Animal Steele: A Teacher’s Secret Life as a Wrestler

by JP Zarka  May 24, 2023

Former WWE star George The Animal Steele led a double life! Before his death, he opened up about his secret life and fetish for turnbuckles!

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!

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…

The Original Lineup of the Four Horsemen: Ole Anderson, Tully Blanchard, J.J. Dillon, Arn Anderson, and Ric Flair in 1986.

The Four Horsemen – Their Story, In Their Own Words

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

Each original member of the Four Horsemen reveals the story of their creation, demise, and madness experienced on the road together.

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!

Lex Luger, Vince McMahon, and the failed World Bodybuilding Federation experiment.

World Bodybuilding Federation Fiasco – Where Did It Go Wrong?

by Javier Ojst  Feb 25, 2023

The World Bodybuilding Federation was an epic financial disaster for Vince McMahon and Titan Sports. Here’s how it all went wrong.

From WWE wrestlers in Playboy, Shawn Michaels' regret, and more, discover 30 racy times pro wrestling entangled with the adult industry!

Playboy to WWE: 30 Racy Wrestling & Adult Industry Relations

by Alexa Pruett  Nov 11, 2024

From WWE wrestlers in Playboy, Shawn Michaels’ regret, and more, discover 30 racy times pro wrestling entangled with the adult industry!

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.

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!

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.

Haystacks Calhoun: His Incredible Life and Tragic End

by JP Zarka  Nov 18, 2024

A 600-pound farm boy, Haystacks Calhoun became a wrestling icon known for his strength, charm, and enduring legacy–with a tragic end.

From 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…

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!

Tales of ribs and practical jokes during the crazy world of 1960s wrestling, particularly this one story involving Stu Hart, Austin Idol, and Dennis Condrey, are so inappropriate you have to read it to believe it. We'll even throw in the tale of Stu Hart's plane getting stolen for good measure!

Stu Hart – The Truth About His Stolen Plane (and Other Ribs)

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 10, 2023

Stu Hart, Dennis Condrey, and Austin Idol ribs pulled on the road in the ’60s and ’70s are so inappropriate you have to read it…

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.

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

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

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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…

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?

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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…

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!

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…

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!

Hijo del Santo and Blue Demon Jr. are amongst those who popularized Lucha Libre in Mexico, America, and beyond.

Lucha Libre: Challenge of Coming to America in the ’90s

by Javier Ojst  May 1, 2023

An incredible story about the people who brought Lucha Libre into the USA in the ’90s, and the many challenges they faced along the way.

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.

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

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

by Joseph Finnegan  Oct 4, 2024

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

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…

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!

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…

Yokozuna – 10 Stories Showing the Kind of Man He Was

by JP Zarka  Feb 7, 2022

From personal accounts from family, friends, and fans, these stories show a different side of Rodney Anoa’i — the man fans knew as Yokozuna.

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.

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.

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…

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

When Ghostbusters Met Pro Wrestling: 10 Unlikely Moments

by Tim Buckler  Oct 17, 2024

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

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!

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.

Always a fan favorite, Len Rossi is seen here at the Agricultural Coliseum in Huntsville, Alabama, in 1969.

Len Rossi – A Gentleman In and Out of the Ring

by Javier Ojst  Oct 21, 2024

With an unpretentious yet convincing wrestling style, Len Rossi was a world-class athlete and an even better man. This is his powerful story.

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…

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.

Bullet Club - Origin of One of Wrestling's Most Iconic Stables

Bullet Club: Surprising Tale Behind Stable’s Creation

by Rob Ireland  Jan 7, 2023

Four foreign dojo boys came together to create The Bullet Club in a company that generally didn’t provide many opportunities for foreigners.

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

Sean Waltman – The Injury That Almost Derailed His Career

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

350 Days: The Story of Wrestling, Sex, Drugs, and Rock-n-Roll

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 5, 2023

Associate Producer Evan Ginzburg gives a behind-the-scenes look at 350 Days, starring Bret Hart and Superstar Billy Graham.

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!

The Foreman Grill, as it turns out, was a $200 millom mistake for Hulk Hogan!

Foreman Grill: A $200m Mistake for Hulk Hogan!

by JP Zarka  Feb 16, 2023

As far as bad timing goes, the George Foreman Grill is without a doubt something Hulk Hogan has regretted over the years…

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.

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

Lanny Poffo – From Hurricanes to Earthquakes: The Next Chapter

by Lanny Poffo  Nov 27, 2020

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

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.

Bobby Lashley during his WWE debut on SmackDown, September 23rd, 2005.

Bobby Lashley – The Freak Accident That Almost Ended Tragically

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

Over a decade before he became the “CEO of The Hurt Business,” Bobby Lashley was a young buck at the genesis of his wrestling career.

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.”

Conrad Thompson: World Champion podcast host and wrestling promoter.

Conrad Thompson: Surprising Story Behind His Success

by JP Zarka  Jun 11, 2026

Conrad Thompson has been at the wrestling podcast mountain since 2013. Learn the surprising story behind his success!

"Cassandro" Saúl Armendáriz: From overcoming childhood trauma to becoming a revered Lucha Libre legend.

Cassandro The Exótico: From Brutal Beginnings to Lucha Icon

by Evan Ginzburg  Sep 20, 2023

The transformation of Luchador Saúl Armendáriz to cross-trandressing “Exótico” Cassandro was fraught with pain and fame. Learn his hidden story!

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

Eric Bischoff’s Shocking WWE Debut: Uncovering the Truth

by Anthony Milano  Jan 23, 2023

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

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.

Earl Hebner stands between Bret Hart (with WWF President Gorilla Monsoon) and Shawn Michaels (with mentor and real-life trainer Jose Lothario, who came out of retirement for this match) at WrestleMania XII, poised to enforce Iron Man Match rules – and one missed call could rewrite wrestling history.

Wrestling Referees: Hidden Secrets Behind the Stripes

by Cam Howe  Oct 15, 2025

Uncover hidden secrets of wrestling referees – one wrong call could rewrite history and change how you see every match.

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.

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.

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.

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

30 Wrestlers You May Not Know Were Related!

by Griffin Kaye  Jun 21, 2023

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

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Nov 22, 2023

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

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

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

by Matt Pender  Mar 7, 2023

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

A horrific scene involving Fritz Von Erich plays out in front of fans at the Christmas Star Wars event on December 25th, 1987.

Fritz Von Erich and the Christmas Day Massacre

by Drew Buxton  Jan 10, 2023

Fritz Von Erich and the Christmas Day Massacre is remembered as one of the most infamous incidents in wrestling history.

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.

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!

King Kong Bundy and Larry Sharpe - The Lost Tapes

King Kong Bundy and Larry Sharpe – The Lost Tapes

by Javier Ojst  Feb 25, 2023

A recently discovered tape of King Kong Bundy and Larry Sharpe offers a rare, uncut glimpse of life on the road for two road-weary veterans.

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…

Photographer Recalls the Tragic Night Owen Hart Died

by JP Zarka  Jan 23, 2023

Photographer Tom Buchanan was 20 feet away on the night Owen Hart died. The events that followed forever remain etched in Buchanan’s memory.

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

Shocking Real-Life Fight Between Eddie Guerrero and Kurt Angle

by JP Zarka  Feb 20, 2023

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

"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.

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.

Vincent James McMahon (Vince Sr.) and his son Vincent Kennedy McMahon (Vince Jr.) pictured together. Vince McMahon Sr. died of pancreatic cancer on May 24, 1984, at age 69.

Vince McMahon on the Father He Barely Knew

by JP Zarka  May 15, 2026

Vince McMahon didn’t know his own last name until age 12. The story of his father, and the final words he ever gave him.

Wrestler Don Fargo lived by his own rules.

His Way or No Way: The Story of Don Fargo

by Javier Ojst  Mar 12, 2023

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

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.

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

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

by Ruslan C. Pashayev  May 11, 2026

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

“Dirty” Dick Slater and Sting - The two wrestlers had an infamous backstage encounter that left Sting humiliated. Photo Credit: WWE.

Sting and Dick Slater: Their Dirty, One-Sided Backstage Fight

by Griffin Kaye  Sep 20, 2025

A brutal backstage brawl left Sting battered and humiliated by ‘Dirty’ Dick Slater in one of wrestling’s most infamous one-sided fights.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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

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

by Cameron Dennis Gorrie  Jan 10, 2023

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

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!

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 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.

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.

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

“Oooh Yeah!” The Untold Story of Pampero Firpo

by Benny J. Scala  May 9, 2023

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

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.

Sunnyside Garden Arena - A Snapshot to Wrestling's Past

Sunnyside Garden Arena – A Snapshot to Wrestling’s Past

by Arthur Nager  Aug 10, 2021

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

The 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!

Before cameras rolled, these 25 heels wrote pro wrestling’s villain blueprint. Most fans have never heard their names. Until now. Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

25 Pre-TV Wrestling Heels Who Built the Modern Villain

by Ted Holland  Feb 26, 2026

Before cameras rolled, these 25 heels built pro wrestling’s villain blueprint. Yet, most fans have never heard their names. Until now.

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…

Many young men have been introduced to professional wrestling by their fathers. What follows are examples of young men who shouldn't have!

Wrestlers Who Shouldn’t Have Followed Father’s Footsteps

by Benny J. Scala  Feb 22, 2023

Many young men have been introduced to professional wrestling by their fathers. What follows are examples of young men who shouldn’t have!

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

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

by Ian Aldous  Feb 9, 2023

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

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.

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.

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

Old School Wrestling: 10 Things Sorely Missed!

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 24, 2022

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

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

Oscar and the Surprising Story of Men on a Mission

by Javier Ojst  Oct 19, 2025

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

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

Enson Inoue and His Dangerous Confrontation with the Yakuza

by Geries Tadros  Feb 27, 2023

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

Legendary mat technician Bob Roop opens up about his friend Harley Race, showing a side not often seen of the legend. Included is a must-read story of the time Harley was able to back off a mob of twelve angry Dusty Rhodes fans (on his own)!

Harley Race, My Friend: A Side Not Often Seen

by Bob Roop  Apr 22, 2023

Bob Roop opens up about the grit and determination of his friend Harley Race, showing a side not often seen of the legend.

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?

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

10 Wrestlers Who Surprisingly Had a WWE Championship Match

by Griffin Kaye  Nov 6, 2022

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

Steel Cage: 11 Memorable Structures and Its History in Wrestling

Steel Cage: 11 Memorable Structures and Its History in Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  May 26, 2022

It’s the most enduring gimmick match in wrestling! Here’s a detailed history of 11 steel cage structures used over the years.

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

10 WWE Wrestlers Whose Gimmick Involved a Day Job

by Matt Roberts  Jan 5, 2024

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

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.

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

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

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

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

Haku and Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake faced off multiple times in WWF rings during the late 1980s, but it was a locker room confrontation away from cameras that cemented their real-life feud.

Haku and Brutus Beefcake: The Real Locker Room Fight

by JP Zarka  Apr 9, 2026

When Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake complained Haku was too stiff, a locker room confrontation showed how real WWF backstage justice could get.

FRED GEOBOLD: NYC Wrestling Radio Pioneer, Unsung Hero

by Evan Ginzburg  Nov 7, 2019

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

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.

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.

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.

WrestleMania 24 Malfunction That Injured Dozens of WWE Fans

WrestleMania 24 Malfunction That Injured Dozens of WWE Fans

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 1, 2021

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

The Great Sasuke delivers a brutal lesson to The Dirtbike Kid, turning what began as a standard match into a shocking display of real aggression.

The Great Sasuke vs. The Dirtbike Kid: A Match Gone Wrong

by Rutvik Keche  Sep 10, 2025

The 1999 match between Great Sasuke and Dirtbike Kid became a brutal real fight when the British wrestler defied a Japanese wrestling legend.

"The Flying Greek" Mike Pappas: On left with Andre the Giant (for size!), and over the years.

‘The Flying Greek’ Mike Pappas: The Rey Mysterio of his Day!

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 3, 2023

Each time The Flying Greek Mike Pappas stepped into the ring, he was David trying to conquer a towering Goliath. And we adored him for…

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

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

by Joseph Finnegan  Aug 26, 2025

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

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.

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.

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…

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.

Meeting Chris Benoit on May 28, 2007

Chris Benoit – How We Met 3 Weeks Before the Unthinkable

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Nov 14, 2023

I met Chris Benoit three weeks before the unthinkable occurred. I’ve never formally documented this story until now.

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.

From Bret Hart, William Regal, Kurt Angle, and more, these wrestlers earned a frosty reception initially behind the scenes in WWE!

10 Disastrous WWE Backstage First Impressions

by Griffin Kaye  Mar 8, 2023

From Bret Hart, William Regal, Kurt Angle, and more, these wrestlers earned a frosty reception initially behind the scenes in WWE!

Bill Apter over the years.

Is Wrestling Fixed? Bill Apter’s Surprising Wrestling Journey

by Evan Ginzburg  Sep 5, 2023

Journalist & photographer Bill Apter is famed for his “Apter Mags” & popularizing wrestling over the years. But how does his book stack up?

The 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.

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

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

by Javier Ojst  May 31, 2023

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

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

Randy Savage and his Unorthodox Approach to Calling a Match

by JP Zarka  Nov 12, 2024

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

"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.”

Dr. D David Schultz delivers the infamous slaps to reporter John Stossel during a 20/20 interview, marking one of wrestling’s most notorious moments and sparking a debate about kayfabe and media scrutiny.

David Schultz vs. John Stossel: Slaps Heard ‘Round the World!

by Javier Ojst  Oct 10, 2024

Dr. D David Schultz defended wrestling’s secrets by slapping John Stossel. Discover the story behind this infamous, startling TV moment.

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

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

by Matt Pender  Feb 8, 2023

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

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.

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!

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!

On November 4th, 2004, WWE Tough Enough contestant Daniel Puder stepped up to Olympic gold medalist and wrestling legend Kurt Angle.

Kurt Angle and Daniel Puder – The Infamous Shoot Incident

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 10, 2023

In an unscripted moment, Tough Enough contestant Daniel Puder stepped up against Kurt Angle. Things would not end well for the Olympic hero.

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.

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!

"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.

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.

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!

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…

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.

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!

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…

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.

My friend, Shad Gaspard.

Shad Gaspard – A Hero, Brother, and Friend Forever

by Joel Eisenberg  Jan 10, 2023

I want you to know about Shad Gaspard, the man – my friend, and hero – who should never be remembered as just another pro…

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.

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

Steve Austin – The Neck Injury That Changed His Life Forever

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Jun 24, 2026

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

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!

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.

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.

Despite the incredible curiosity surrounding the fight between Muhammad Ali and Antonio Inoki in the Budokan Hall, viewers were mostly left confounded.

Muhammad Ali and Antonio Inoki Bizarre Encounter in Japan

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

In 1976, a bizarre encounter between boxer Muhammad Ali and Antonio Inoki became the talk of the sports world.

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!

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 26, 2023

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

Billy Riley established the Snake Pit in 1948, but it was Roy Wood’s decision to preserve it that ensured seventy years of catch wrestling legacy would survive.

The Snake Pit: How One Gym Quietly Reshaped Wrestling

by JP Zarka  Nov 4, 2025

The untold story of Billy Riley’s Snake Pit: how this hidden Wigan gymnasium quietly reshaped wrestling history across seven decades worldwide.

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)!

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…

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.

Randy Savage and Jake Roberts Infamous Snake Bite Incident

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

What took place before the cameras started rolling makes the Randy Savage and Jake Roberts snake bite incident all the more entertaining!

The View From the Ring: Tales from a Wrestling Referee

by Bobby Mathews  Nov 16, 2022

After 10 years away, our writer and wrestling referee, Bobby Mathews chronicles what it was like to make a return to the indy scene.

Ultimate Warrior and Rick Rude did not just collide over championships in the WWF between 1989 and 1990. Behind the curtain, a pattern of stiff shots, locker room confrontations, and real-life brutal fights that nearly ended a career.

Ultimate Warrior and Rick Rude Feud That Turned Brutally Real

by JP Zarka  Apr 30, 2026

The Ultimate Warrior and Rick Rude feud went beyond the WWE ring, with stiff shots and brutal backstage fights wrestlers still talk about.

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

The Traumatic Incident that Changed Scott Hall’s Life

by Luke Marcoccia  Sep 24, 2025

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

From high-flying innovator to unhinged ‘Loose Cannon,’ Brian Pillman revolutionized professional wrestling in just 35 years. Discover 13 times he changed the game forever!

Brian Pillman: 13 Times He Changed Wrestling Forever

by Samantha Schneider-Crouse  Jan 6, 2025

13 times Brian Pillman revolutionized pro wrestling: From innovator to Loose Cannon, see how he changed the game forever!

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.

Shocking Photos of Bald Wrestlers with Hair!

by Braeden Farrell  Jun 5, 2026

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

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.’

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.

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!

Learn the story behind the wrestling career of Bruce Hart and how, by his own admission, he changed the face of sports entertainment!

Bruce Hart: The Secret Tale of a Hart Brother

by Evan Ginzburg  Mar 8, 2023

Learn the story behind the wrestling career of Bruce Hart and how, by his own admission, he changed the face of sports entertainment!

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.

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.

"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!

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…

The man, the myth, the legend: Rowdy Roddy Piper.

Rowdy Roddy Piper: A Wild Maverick Who Died Too Soon

by Geries Tadros  Jan 10, 2023

Wrestler Rowdy Roddy Piper—a maverick known for his outrageous behavior—died too soon. We take a look back at Piper’s life and career.

In 1983, Vince McMahon did his best to sabotage Starrcade '83.

How Vince McMahon Tried To Sabotage Starrcade ’83

by Griffin Kaye  Jan 10, 2023

One attempted act of wrestling vandalism by Vince McMahon could have jeopardized the first major wrestling pay-per-view, Starrcade ’83.

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Sep 15, 2025

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

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

Superstar Billy Graham: Uncovering the Untold Truths of His Life

by Javier Ojst  Sep 25, 2024

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

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…

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.

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

Statham’s A Working Man: How Wrestling Tactics Beat Snow White

by Evan Ginzburg  Apr 3, 2025

Jason Statham’s A Working Man topped Disney’s Snow White at #1. Discover how wrestling-inspired storytelling fueled its box office success.

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

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

by Matt Pender  Jan 20, 2023

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

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…

Savio Vega - His Memorable Reddit 'Ask Me Anything' Session

Savio Vega – His Memorable Reddit ‘Ask Me Anything’ Session

by JP Zarka  Sep 23, 2020

For one fan, Savio Vega gave him his moment to shine by finally answering a question that has been building up for over a year.

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

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

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

Lanny Poffo’s Dark Side of the Ring Confession

by Lanny Poffo  May 7, 2025

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

Lucha Libre | 5 Dark Stories With Questions Unanswered

by Javier Ojst  May 1, 2023

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

"Macho Man" Randy Savage over the years. He had a colorful life, explored in the book "Macho Man: Untamed Life of Randy Savage." Photo Credit: WWE. Montage by Pro Wrestling Stories.

Macho Man: Untamed Life of Randy Savage – An Honest Review

by Ian Aldous  Apr 3, 2024

An honest review of “Macho Man: Untamed Life of Randy Savage,” a book that peels back the layers of a complicated, contemplative icon.

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.

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 bond between Scott Hall and Curt Hennig ran deep.

Scott Hall and Curt Hennig’s Secret Bond Beyond The Ring

by Matt Pender  Feb 24, 2023

Learn about the unique bond between Curt Hennig and Scott Hall, two pro wrestlers known for their athleticism and loyalty to each other.

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.

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.

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.

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…

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.

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!

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

Zach Gowen: His Quick Rise and Spectacular Fall

by Javier Ojst  Apr 19, 2024

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

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!

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.

10 Wrestlers You May Not Know Appeared in ECW

Hidden Gems of ECW: 10 Appearances You May Have Missed

by Griffin Kaye  Apr 26, 2023

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

16 WWE Records Most Fans Don't Know About!

16 WWE Records Most Fans Don’t Know About!

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 5, 2025

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

“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.

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.

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…

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…

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!

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

Ted DiBiase – The Case of an Unrecognized WWF Champion

by Conor McCorkindale  Feb 6, 2023

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

Hulk Hogan and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson collide in their rematch at No Way Out 2003—a bout filled with twists, betrayal, and echoes of wrestling’s most infamous screwjob.

Hulk Hogan vs. Rock II: The Rematch Wrestling Forgot

by Tim Buckler  Nov 19, 2024

The dramatic No Way Out rematch between Hulk Hogan and The Rock was full of betrayal, Hollywood Rock’s rise, and echoes of Montreal that set…

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

George Weingeroff: A Legally Blind Wrestler’s Secret Tale

by PW Wade  Jul 15, 2025

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

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.

“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?

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.

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

All-Star Wrestling: Unsung Heroes of Saturday Morning TV

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 27, 2023

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

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.

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.

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.

The WCW invasion of the WWF should have been one of the biggest angles in wrestling history. Only it wasn't. Where did it all go wrong?

WCW Invasion in WWF: Where Did It All Go Wrong?

by Aaron Young  Feb 12, 2023

The WCW invasion of the WWF should have been one of the biggest angles in wrestling history. That’s not what happened…

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…

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.

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!

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.

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!

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

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

by Ebony Nash  Feb 13, 2023

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

The tale of Hulk Hogan and DDP is one of respect and admiration.

DDP and Hulk Hogan: An Unlikely Tale of Admiration

by Matt Pender  Feb 16, 2023

DDP got his start late in the game at 35, and his wrestling career didn’t take off right away. But, Hulk Hogan took notice!

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!

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.

Mike Halac: from Bruiser Mastino to Mantaur and beyond.

Mantaur Mike Halac: Untold Tales of a Gentle Powerhouse

by Benny J. Scala  Jul 10, 2025

Dreams die hard. Even at age 55, Mantaur Mike Halac was contemplating returning to the ring before he abruptly, tragically passed away.

The Forgotten POWERTEAM USA: Justice and Flash!

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jun 5, 2026

Filed under the forgotten category, here is how Ultimate Warrior and Sting got their start under the guise of Powerteam USA

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.

"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!

When Raven showed up to WWE in 2000, it should have marked his greatest run of all.

Raven: Behind his Controversial Downfall in WWE

by Andy Smith  Mar 3, 2023

When Raven showed up to WWE in 2000, it should have marked his greatest run of all. Vince McMahon and WWE had different plans.

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.

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…

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.

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! 

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

Jimmy Savile: A Predator’s Time in Wrestling

by Griffin Kaye  Feb 7, 2024

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

The 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!

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!

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.

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.

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…

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

Triple H’s Botched Pedigree That Nearly Paralyzed a Wrestler

by Richard Thompson  Jul 11, 2025

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

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.

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.

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!

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!

Current AEW Justin Roberts announcer opens up about his time in WWE.

WWE Nightmare: Justin Roberts Opens Up

by Bobby Mathews  Mar 10, 2023

Justin Roberts talks with us about his book, WWE, bullying, JBL, the Daniel Bryan incident, and he answers THE Batista question!

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.

3 Wrestling Documentaries That Hit The Mark

Wrestling Documentaries That Hit The Mark

by Javier Ojst  Feb 28, 2023

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

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Apr 21, 2023

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

The 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!

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…

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.

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

Mick Foley Has the Longest Day of His Life

by Javier Ojst  Mar 18, 2023

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

From making history at 26 to being banned from wrestling in multiple states. Discover the devastating truth behind Yokozuna’s first WWE Championship reign and his tragic final days.

Yokozuna: Tragic Truth Behind His WWE Reign and Final Days

by Si Powell  Dec 9, 2024

Discover Yokozuna’s historic 14-month reign as WWE’s then-WWF Heavyweight Champion, the challenges he faced, and the legacy he left behind.

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

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

by Richard Thompson  Oct 11, 2024

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

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.

"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.

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

Sean O’Haire: Wrestling’s Tragic Cautionary Tale

by Matt Roberts  Feb 18, 2026

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

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!

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

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

by JP Zarka  Jan 26, 2023

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

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

Georgia Championship Wrestling | Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Mar 10, 2023

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

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

Was Randy Savage Looking to Return to WWE in 2010?

by Tim Buckler  Jul 31, 2023

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

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!

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

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

by Joseph Finnegan  Feb 15, 2023

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

AEW, Dismissing the Nonsensical, and WWE – A Penance For Past Sins

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 7, 2022

Dispelling the nonsensical around AEW, how WWE is penance for past sins, and why 2019 is the golden age for independent wrestling.

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…

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!

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.

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.

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

by JP Zarka  Nov 7, 2019

The very best matches of Puerto Rican great, Savio Vega

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…

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.

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 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…

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!

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

10 Pro Wrestling Matches That Turned Into Real Fights!

by Kelvin Vega  Aug 27, 2024

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

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!

"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.

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.

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.

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.

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…

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

Steve Austin and Brian Pillman: Secret History of Hollywood Blonds

by Si Powell  Feb 19, 2023

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

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.

Pro Wrestling Guerrilla has thrived since 2003 with star alumni such as Adam Pearce, Kevin Steen (Kevin Owens), AJ Styles, Uhaa Nation (Apollo Crews), Frankie Kazarian, Adam Cole, El Generico (Sami Zayn), CM Punk, Colt Cabana, Tyler Black (Seth Rollins), Kenny Omega, Bryan Danielson (FKA Daniel Bryan), Claudio Castagnoli (FKA Cesaro), Johnny Gargano, and a host of others.

PWG: The Untold Story of Pro Wrestling Guerrilla

by Jordan Talbot  Apr 14, 2025

Before WWE & AEW, today’s biggest stars cut their teeth in SoCal’s Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG). Discover its untold story!

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!

"The Lethal Weapon" Steve Blackman.

7 Steve Blackman Tales That Verify Lethal Weapon Status

by JP Zarka  Jul 21, 2025

Steve Blackman airport brawls, Big Show beatdowns & survival stories that verify why “The Lethal Weapon” terrified WWE’s toughest stars!

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!

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 7, 2022

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

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Feb 24, 2026

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

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!

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

How Bob Backlund Humiliated Obnoxious Trucker

by Matt Pender  Feb 8, 2023

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

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

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

by Braeden Farrell  Mar 3, 2023

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

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

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

by Joseph Finnegan  Jun 26, 2025

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

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.

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…

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.

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…

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

Booker T and his Bitter Departure from WWE in 2007

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

Jimmy Snuka and the Death of Nancy Argentino

by Javier Ojst  Mar 3, 2023

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

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Apr 28, 2023

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

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.

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.

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

Mario Milano: The WWE Myth That Refuses to Die

by Benny J. Scala  Jun 30, 2025

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

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.

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

Ivan Putski and the Time He Was Overpowered by a Bear

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Apr 21, 2025

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

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