Ivan Koloff: Secret Untold Tale of a Beloved Wrestling Heel
The untold tale of Ivan Koloff: From Canadian farm boy to pro wrestling legend, and his epic upset victory that shook the wrestling world!
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.
The untold tale of Ivan Koloff: From Canadian farm boy to pro wrestling legend, and his epic upset victory that shook the wrestling world!
We’re very excited to now be offering Pro Wrestling Stories t-shirts from PWSTees.com! If you’ve been sucked right in and love what we’re doing here,…
The Undertaker stood stoically backstage in Gorilla Position with his fists wrapped ready to confront Shawn Michaels at any moment.
Discover the secret story of 2x WWE Champion Sid Eudy (AKA Sid Vicious and Sycho Sid) from his life, career, and untimely death.
When Larry Zbyszko turned his back on Bruno Sammartino, it incited one of the greatest rivalries and heel turns in wrestling history!
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…
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.
‘How do you spell wrestling? T-O-L-O-S!’ The story of The Golden Greek, John Tolos, in his own words and from the people who knew him…
Frankie Kazarian and Lanny Poffo get emotional talking about this moment that took place backstage at ALL IN in 2018.
The time Killer Kowalski played a sweet rib on Ivan Putski involving a hungry wrestling bear. “I told the bear to go get ’em!”
Unlock the secret code of 36 pro wrestling terms rarely heard today and the hidden meanings behind the lingo that once ruled the ring!
Discover the 13 most iconic wrestling moments that took place on Christmas, including the time Santa won a WWE championship title!
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.
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…
Chick ‘Cocky’ Knight lived life to the full. Along with a storied career in the wrestling ring, Knight was a triple-lifesaver!
Brash, athletic, and tough as nails, the fierce yet wonderful Mae Young was a born performer, and professional wrestling was the perfect fit.
I met Chris Benoit three weeks before the unthinkable occurred. I’ve never formally documented this story until now.
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…
Kayfabe News creator Colin Hunter trades satire for stripes in The Ref Didn’t See It! – and reality hit him harder than expected.
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.
Jack Donovan was in a situation that almost turned deadly. It changed the lives of Tojo Yamamoto, Jerry Jarrett and Jackie Fargo forever.
The Miz and Daniel Bryan’s explosive segment of Talking Smack on August 23rd, 2016 led to the greatest promo of Miz’s career.
These wrestling heels caused mayhem in the wrestling territories, creating a unique family dynamic at home — especially for their daughters.
“Things did not go to plan!” Here are seven upset victories that took place in the ring that left wrestling fans shocked and confused.
David Gann wasn’t a famous name. He wasn’t any kind of star. But he was one of us. He was family. It’s our privilege to…
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…
From Tokyo Dome in 1994 to collapse in 1997: how ’90s joshi rose, fell, and the lasting mark it left on Japanese women’s pro wrestling.
Pro wrestling has had many tragedies, but this tragic tale in Canada involving Nanjo Singh and his wife may be one of the lesser known.
Had it not been for a vision in a dream long after his passing, these stories on superstar luchador The Tempest would have been lost…
Discover how the Mortal Kombat video game franchise has impacted the professional wrestling industry (for better or for worse)!
Uncover the remarkable legacy and secret life of the WWE legend with the flaming head tattoo: Bam Bam Bigelow!
In 1976, a bizarre encounter between boxer Muhammad Ali and Antonio Inoki became the talk of the sports world.
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.
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…
With a heavy heart, we say goodbye to our beloved friend, Lanny Poffo, known to wrestling fans as “The Genius” and “Leaping Lanny.”
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!
Roddy Piper reveals wrestling’s true origins in a rare interview. Discover how carnival wrestlers created the formula still used today.
Shawn Michaels opens up about what today’s WWE wrestlers are missing – and why the business may be suffering because of it.
The remarkable story of the grappler who tirelessly fought to end segregation in Memphis and the whole of the South, Sputnik Monroe.
“Kane” Glenn Jacobs opens up about the time he was on the road and gave an old couple the fright of a lifetime!
Sandy Parker broke barriers as an openly gay Black wrestling champion in the 1960s and ’70s. Discover this pioneer’s secret, untold story.
Before the Montreal Screwjob, Vince McMahon orchestrated a 1985 betrayal of Wendi Richter by The Fabulous Moolah, which changed WWE history.
From friends to enemies with real-life drama, explore 10 explosive backstage stories on WWE’s most personal feud: Bret Hart vs Shawn Michaels
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…
Superman and wrestling collide in 12 mind-blowing crossovers spanning decades. Discover hidden connections and untold stories!
Wrestler Hardbody Harrison lived a secret life so dark and disturbing that it earned him life in prison with no chance of parole.
Jeff Hardy and Sting squared off at the TNA Victory Road PPV in 2011. It was a match that stands out for all the wrong…
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!
Melissa Coates made a name for herself in multiple fields. But before her untimely passing, she went through her biggest fight yet.
Although Steve Keirn found success as one half of The Fabulous Ones and later Doink the Clown and Skinner, his path was a brutal one.
Killer Kowalski headlined around the world, but to me, he was more than a great wrestling villain- he was my friend.
Many wrestlers during the WWWF era disappeared after an appearance or two. But then there was the great Baron Mikel Scicluna!
Journey back to the late ’80s and early ’90s as every wrestling game ever released on the Sega Genesis gaming system is brought back to…
Discover 15 untold tales of Harley Race, one of wrestling’s toughest icons, whose legendary strength and resilience defined an era.
The untold story of The Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar: Uncover the secret details behind the historic end of “The Streak” at WrestleMania 30.
The personal journey of Scott Hall was not always glamorous, and his life was never the same after this traumatic January 1983 incident.
The Genius Lanny Poffo has given up hurricanes in favor of earthquakes! Find out what we mean in his latest Pro Wrestling Stories editorial.
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?
The following wrestling managers deserve a bit of our love by making professional wrestling exceptionally better by being a part of it!
Here are seven times wrestlers legit got physical on talk shows, proving just how real wrestling is in front of a live viewing audience!
Uncover Vince McMahon’s game-changing 1980s masterplan: Hulk Hogan, Cyndi Lauper, MTV, and how it ignited WWE’s (then WWF) meteoric rise.
A custom WWF King of the Ring championship belt was commissioned for King Mabel, which soon came with its share of controversy and scrutiny!
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…
I attended 90% of the WWWF Madison Square Garden shows between 1974 and ’84. This is my love letter to the past.
The Dallas Sportatorium had its doors open from 1935-1998. It may not be a church, but it was wrestling’s holy ground – to some!
The following performers turned scraps to gold as they developed before our eyes on the chaotic yet exciting stage of ECW!
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…
WCW announcer David Penzer reveals chilling details about the tragic events surrounding Chris Benoit and the signs some saw coming.
The Rock and Hulk Hogan. Icon vs Icon. One of the greatest matches in WrestleMania history, but things did not go as planned!
On January 7th, 2002, Madison Square Garden saw the triumphant return of Triple H after a career-threatening injury.
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.
New Jack made a name for himself as one of the business’s most dangerous and unpredictable wrestlers. This is his shocking story!
Why The Yeti was called that (despite being a mummy), who was initially cast, and the accidental moment with Hulk Hogan at Halloween Havoc!
From souvenir fan club packages to 1950s board games, unleash your nostalgia with these 12 classic wrestling Christmas gifts from the past!
Celebrating Terry Funk: A Texan wrestling icon’s decades-long journey. We remember a man who forged a path that few dared!
In an unscripted moment, Tough Enough contestant Daniel Puder stepped up against Kurt Angle. Things would not end well for the Olympic hero.
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.
We share our honest thoughts on Rowdy: The Roddy Piper Story, the unfinished autobiography Roddy started the very year that he passed away.
Among the beautiful beaches and friendly people in El Salvador, you’ll find a country rich in wrestling history with unbelievably wild tales!
To counter the growing dominance of the WWF, AWA had to do something different. Thus, the AWA Team Challenge Series was born.
Shawn Michaels and Diesel (Kevin Nash) met through Rick Steiner. They’d soon help WWE forge a new identity after a rocky start to the ’90s.
A week after Arn Anderson retired, the nWo went on TV to mock him. What followed, to this day, is divisive amongst fans and those…
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…
From rock star dreams to wrestling nightmare: How one phone call saved Metal Maniac from two of wrestling’s most notorious bullies.
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…
“Creative” sometimes second-guesses themselves, even minutes before a match! Here are ten times WWE changed finishes at the last second.
Koko B. Ware’s violent hotel brawl with this WWE executive in 1989 led to surprising consequences, exposing a darker side of the “Birdman.”
The sky was the limit for Mr. Kennedy after winning the Money in the Bank (MITB) match. What followed was a rollercoaster of highs and…
Through miles of travel, injuries, and memorable performances, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn realize one thing: they can rely on each other!
Associate Producer Evan Ginzburg gives a behind-the-scenes look at 350 Days, starring Bret Hart and Superstar Billy Graham.
The “Mother of All Betting Matches” saw Black Shadow losing his mask to El Santo. Mystery and controversy still surround what happened next.
I want you to know about Shad Gaspard, the man – my friend, and hero – who should never be remembered as just another pro…
There are many wrestlers who have had long locks their entire career. Here’s a look into the past where you can see them with short…
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…
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…
Before TV cameras rolled, these 42 babyfaces packed arenas and built the hero playbook. The pre-TV wrestling legends history nearly forgot.
The ‘strongman’ has always held an important place in professional wrestling. But was Ken Patera the strongest of them all?
Nigel McGuinness is one of the biggest ‘What if’s’ in wrestling history. These are the triumphs and tragedies of one of wrestling’s finest.
Mother-daughter team Las Irmas (Irma González and Irma Aguilar) defied odds to become legends, paving the way for women in Mexican wrestling.
If you saw Bruno Sammartino live – where the love for this impossibly charismatic man was palpable – you’ll never forget the deafening roars.
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!
In 1976, while Antonio Inoki was facing one of the top performers in Pakistan, much controversy followed. Here is how it all unfolded.
This world record made by Angelo Poffo, the father of Randy Savage, went beyond digits—it highlighted the determination of the Poffo family!
In 2011, a 48-year grudge hit a boiling point at a Canadian Football League luncheon between wrestler Angelo Mosca and quarterback Joe Kapp!
What should’ve been a feeling of jubilation with enjoying WrestleMania 24 firsthand, ended with sadness, anger and confusion.
Learn about the unique bond between Curt Hennig and Scott Hall, two pro wrestlers known for their athleticism and loyalty to each other.
Inside the infamous real-life fight between Dave Bautista and Booker T—how their brawl became one of WWE’s most talked-about incidents.
Chaotic endings make great television. The unplanned Vince McMahon injury suffered at the 2005 Royal Rumble is a perfect example of this!
The Undertaker was the longest-tenured WWE wrestler of all time. But what do his peers have to say about him?
The war between Vince McMahon and Jerry “The King” Lawler and the time Vince and several WWF stars invaded the USWA in Memphis.
Let us take you back in time when WWE (then the WWWF and WWF) presented a weekly Saturday morning show entitled All-Star Wrestling.
Turner executive Richard Steinberg shares 27 behind-the-scenes road stories, ribs, and disasters from WCW’s wildest era.
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.
Kana (WWE’s Asuka) dropped a 2010 manifesto that ripped apart Japanese women’s wrestling and changed her career forever.
With his feud with Jerry Lawler, Andy Kaufman changed wrestling into sports entertainment, whether he knew it or not.
When the industry seemingly left him behind, Duane Gill reinvented himself as Gillberg. This is the story of his unlikely journey to stardom.
15 top rivalries of WWF’s New Generation era that captivated fans but never got the spotlight they deserved. Wrestling nostalgia at its best!
Hulk Hogan choking Richard Belzer on live TV resulted in public concern, a legal fight, and blurred the lines between wrestling and reality.
Shawn Michaels and Undertaker at WrestleMania 25 is widely regarded as one of the greatest matches in wrestling history. For good reason.
Pro Wrestling Stories author Jim Phillips is in a bad way. Learn his story & how you can help him reach his goal of taking…
Greg Valentine opens up about his favorite feuds in wrestling, and the tragic fate of his destroyed Intercontinental title!
When Jeff Jarrett returned to the WWF in 1997, he was promised a feud with Steve Austin. Austin refused, and the reasons were numerous.
How does the Woooooo! Becoming Ric Flair documentary on Peacock fare in the telling of Flair’s prolific and controversial story?
Randy Savage worked differently than many during his time in wrestling. This was often met with criticism from his peers.
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!
With Jackass 4 confirmed for 2021, psych yourself up with this wild ride of a story! Canceled matchups and knockouts included!
Evelyn Stevens soared in women’s wrestling, then vanished. Discover the untold twists behind her championship legacy and fate.
Deke Carter turned away from the lights and sea of San Juan. He was looking for something cheap. Something entertaining. And something cold to drink.
Still wrestling in his 70s, Action Mike Jackson revisits the territory era, fan violence, and his TNA return in a rare, unfiltered interview.
Fred Ottman tells the inside story about his botched debut as The Shockmaster and how it forever changed his life.
Wrestling table spots, from the territories to modern arenas. Discover 15 of the most destructive and memorable table spots in history!
‘The Spoiler’ Don Jardine headlined worldwide. Later, he inspired a young Undertaker. Here are tales about his career and notorious temper!
Here are 4 times ‘fans’ startlingly ambushed a wrestler. Dive into the insanity of these moments and how wrestlers took care of things after.
Even as a 54-year-old, this flash-in-the-pan scenario with Triple H showed WWE fans precisely who the real Nature Boy Ric Flair was!
When Steve Williams faced Kenta Kobashi in 1993, The Dangerous Backdrop lived up to its name. Kobashi faced permanent paralysis and his life.
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.
Each of these nostalgic wrestling photos has an interesting story behind them. Get ready for this fun blast from the past!
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.
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!
William Regal has had a rollercoaster career of suspensions and terminated contracts. However, one event changed the trajectory of his life.
Discover the riveting story behind one of the most powerful moves in wrestling: the knee strike. From its origins to jaw-dropping examples!
Kurt Von Hess was one of the last ethnic heels of the territory days. For him and his family, life was anything but ordinary!
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.
With an unpretentious yet convincing wrestling style, Len Rossi was a world-class athlete and an even better man. This is his powerful story.
Brian Blair opens up about Paul Orndorff, The Cauliflower Alley Club, rib stories, and five times he got into brutal shoot fights.
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.
Dispelling the nonsensical around AEW, how WWE is penance for past sins, and why 2019 is the golden age for independent wrestling.
Witnessing a title change at a house show when the cameras aren’t rolling is a special treat. Here are memorable times this has happened!
Shane McMahon risked it all for WWE! Explore 13 of his most daring moments, from epic leaps to jaw-dropping crashes that defined his legacy.
The Grand Wizard of Wrestling was a gaudily attired, smooth-talking manager who fans loathed (though appreciated) with every ounce.
Over a decade before he became the “CEO of The Hurt Business,” Bobby Lashley was a young buck at the genesis of his wrestling career.
The best wrestling memoirs are confessional and brutally honest. Here are the top 10 best wrestling book must-reads, and the 5 worst!
The Crippler Ray Stevens was one of the greatest heels in the history of the wrestling business. Here is his story.
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…
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…
They engineered the hatred. They lost control of it. The full story of Dump Matsumoto, the Crush Gals, and 1980s Japan.
Despite anti-bullying rhetoric, WWE bullying is still alive and well, They tacitly condone veteran hazing of younger talent.
CM Punk is never one to censor his thoughts! Here’s what he had to say about WWE creative, Seth Rollins, a potential return to the…
Here are ten of our favorite examples of wrestlers donning a mask to conceal their identity. As you’ll find, they weren’t fooling anybody!
A heated fight between Kevin Nash and Roddy Piper took place in 1997. Here, both men give their differing takes on what happened!
In the dark days of segregation, Bobo Brazil, Bearcat Wright, and “Sailor” Art Thomas paved the way for a more inclusive sport.
From avid professional wrestling fan to NWA World Heavyweight Champion, this is the amazing tale of Tim Storm!
Bret Hart shares the unfortunate story of the time Ultimate Warrior let down a Make-a-Wish kid on one of his final wishes.
Provoking feuds is an art form Mark Madden turned into a job in pro wrestling. It was that same ability that would ultimately doom his…
On October 26th, 1996, ECW crossed a line. An angle involving The Sandman was so distasteful, it silenced the usually wild ECW crowd.
Kurt Angle and Vince McMahon had a legendary scuffle on a flight back from London. A sleeping Undertaker awoke and acted accordingly!
Discover the history and secrets behind one of wrestling’s most powerful statements of a maneuver: The Powerbomb!
Fabulous Moolah became the most powerful woman in wrestling through ruthless and cutthroat methods, leaving behind a controversial legacy.
Associate Producer Evan Ginzburg reveals the haunting reality behind Mickey Rourke’s role in The Wrestler and the moment the line blurred.
The untold story of Billy Riley’s Snake Pit: how this hidden Wigan gymnasium quietly reshaped wrestling history across seven decades worldwide.
WWE NXT referee Tom Castor showed vast amounts of resilience after a gruesome injury took place mid-match in Omaha in 2019.
Hulk Hogan and Brutus The Barber Beefcake have a long and varied history in professional wrestling, and their start was anything but smooth!
Bob Roop opens up about the grit and determination of his friend Harley Race, showing a side not often seen of the legend.
Big Daddy vs Giant Haystacks ruled 1970s and 1980s Britain. But the feud was never just good vs evil. Most fans only heard half the…
Welcome to ProWrestlingStories.com, your weekly source of nostalgia and peek behind the curtain wall of the past!
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!
On December 29, 2023, WWE legend Killer Khan died following a tragic incident at his restaurant. Discover his hidden life outside the ring.
From Parts Unknown? Take a trip back to the pro wrestling world of the ’80s and prior as we reveal wrestlers’ real (and kayfabe) hometowns!
How the ‘Heartbreak Kid’ Shawn Michaels evolved as a character over the years from 1991-1998, through the words of commentary.
It was 2002. Kurt Angle was waiting for Shawn Michaels backstage. He had something to say – and he probably should have kept it to…
Wrestlers misbehaving is nothing new, but there have been many outlandish wrestling arrests you may not be aware of outside the ring!
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!
The Superkick always gets a great reaction, so why’s it so polarizing? Here’s the surprising history of wrestling’s most controversial move!
21 WWE Hall of Famers who never held championship gold, but their legacies shine just as bright—proving greatness needs no title!
The People’s Elbow by The Rock was never meant to be used more than once. Here is the ridiculous story behind its creation.
As the following stories show, the friendship between Daniel Bryan and Kane was just as absurd off-camera as it was on it!
Chief Jay Strongbow was one of the most revered workers in the industry. However, there are many shocking tales about him behind the scenes!
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.
Discover 13 memorable wrestling returns. From surprise entrances to emotional homecomings, these moments had fans on their feet!
Ben Justice had a devoted following of fans in pro wrestling during the 1960s and 1970s. Learn about his career and life!
Tiger Khan was on the rise. But like many wrestlers before him and likely after, he treated his body like a chemistry set. In the…
From Hulk Hogan to a particular tag team from Scotland, learn about five unexpected ties that bind Highlander with professional wrestling!
St. Louis Wrestling, under Sam Muchnick, set the gold standard, with credible, fair bouts, until three dark moments nearly broke it all down.
Guerrero. A name long associated with wrestling. Before Eddie and his brothers, their father Gory Guerrero paved the way in an exciting way.
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.
Had it not been for the quick thinking of The Great Muta, Halloween Havoc likely never would have made it beyond its first year!
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…
From Bruno Sammartino, Gorilla Monsoon, and yes, even Hulk Hogan, uncover the secret journeys of 20 Italian professional wrestling icons!
WWE’s 1998 Brawl For All blended wrestling with boxing but ended in chaos, injuries, and ruined careers. Discover the story behind the chaos.
From 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…
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…
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!
From former champs to Money in the Bank winners, these wrestlers showed promise but were out of WWE before reaching their full potential.
From Hulk Hogan to Steve Austin, these eleven wrestlers took a stand and walked away after refusing to lose a match.
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…
A wrestling party theme is perfect for younger fans. Turn your house into the squared circle with your birthday superstar at the center of it…
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…
WWE Niagara Falls built a 220-foot Pile Driver drop tower. Discover how WWE’s only thrill ride opened, stalled, and vanished.
ECW lives on through the FTW Championship. A storied, surprising history surrounds the “outlaw” that is still defended in AEW today!
JP Zarka of Pro Wrestling Stories joins Alan Banks on Songs from the Squared Circle to talk wrestling stories, WrestleMania moments, and more!
At 7’0″ and 300lbs, Matt Morgan should have ascended to the very top of the WWE. Which begs the question: what went wrong?
Kizarny debuted on WWE SmackDown on October 10th, 2008. Five months later, he would be gone from the company. Here’s how it all went wrong.
Bret Hart and Eric Bischoff have had plenty of shocking comments to share about one another over the years!
In April 2000, Mike Awesome did something no other wrestler had done in the WWE, WCW, or ECW. Here, he did it on the same…
Despite the fame and glory wrestler Rikidozan achieved, his vanity and underworld connections would lead to a tragic conclusion.
From professional football, to wrestling, and developing a 200-pill-a-day addiction, this is the story of Del “The Patriot” Wilkes.
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…
Honest review of the book “The Six Pack: On the Open Road in Search of WrestleMania,” which exposes the reality behind WWE and WrestleMania.
Terrible Ted The Wrestling Bear’s wild career, from Hart family porch to county jail, and why his act now reads as pure cruelty.
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…
Before Butch and Luke became The Bushwhackers, they were a despised violent team who were very lucky to leave towns with their lives!
For Freddie Blassie, death threats were frequent. He triggered deaths in Japan, was stabbed 21 times by fans, and was even doused with acid!
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.
When my beloved friend Nicole Bass walked into a room, everything just stopped. This is my tribute to her and her life.
Veteran wrestler April Hunter weighs in and tells, from a female wrestler’s perspective, whether or not Netflix GLOW gets it right.
The Dangerous Alliance and their brief yet impactful influence on WCW in the early ’90s with Paul E. Dangerously at the helm.
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…
Explore the hidden struggles of gay wrestlers and the layers of homophobia in wrestling’s territory era and beyond in ‘Out In The Ring.’
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!
Fans witnessing the Jimmy Snuka and Don Muraco match never experienced anything like it. And in the many years since, fans haven’t forgotten.
Gotch and Hackenschmidt garnered much fame in the early 1900s but ultimately would damage wrestling’s credibility for years to come.
Things did not fare well for Steve Austin at the 1996 Royal Rumble. It was his second-ever appearance in the WWE!
We give our honest review of The Last Fall by NECW founder Sheldon Goldberg, who helped launch wrestling stars John Cena and Sasha Banks.
The WCW invasion of the WWF should have been one of the biggest angles in wrestling history. That’s not what happened…
John Cena tucking Chris Jericho into bed at night in cozy Alaska sounds like the stuff of fan fiction. However, this wasn’t fantasy!
Inside WrestleMania’s forgotten nine-second squash match where King Kong Bundy crushed S.D. Jones, introducing a lasting wrestling staple.
From The Rock and Cody Rhodes to many unexpected others, Star Trek and wrestling have crossed many times over the years!
The King of the Deathmatch tournament spawned explosive brutality, and according to Mick Foley, it was the longest day of his life.
In 2010, the Undertaker wrestled through agonizing pain after suffering first and second-degree burns. It cost the job of one WWE employee.
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.
An honest review of “Macho Man: Untamed Life of Randy Savage,” a book that peels back the layers of a complicated, contemplative icon.
“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!
Shocking tales of the times professional wrestlers had to preserve kayfabe during a time when this art form was heavily protected.
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…
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…
The feud between Triple H and Booker T in 2003 is one of WWE’s most shameful feuds and still leaves a sour taste in the…
Io Shirai arrested at Narita Airport in 2012. How the frame-up nearly destroyed her before she became WWE’s IYO SKY. The untold story.
When Antonio Inoki retired The Great Antonio from wrestling on December 9th, 1977, it almost cost the famed eccentric strongman his life.
Allen Coage was also known as Bad News Brown and Bad News Allen. Learn his secret history through his beloved daughters, Frances and April.
Discover the untold tale of The Masked Saint, Christopher Whaley: a wrestler, pastor, and vigilante whose actions impacted many lives.
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…
We give our honest review of Bruno Sammartino (The Documentary). Moving yet incomplete. Why does it skip so much of his wrestling legacy?
Betrayal, disloyalty, and mob tactics ran rampant between Ann Gunkel and the NWA with their Battle for Atlanta!
What happens when you have a 6’5″, 450lbs monster heel that is too rough in the ring? You enlist the help of Sting and Harley…
The time when Edge and Christian got heat with the boys and found themselves called into Wrestlers Court for playing nice with the writers.
13 WWE midcarders who left and achieved main event success! Discover how they found triumph and championship gold beyond WWE.
In 1998, WWE filmed Val Venis with a top adult star. The footage was so explicit that Vince McMahon vaulted it, but the tale lives…
At Survivor Series 1993, WWE scrambled to replace Jerry Lawler after a sudden controversy, leading to an unexpected match.
Wrestling legend Sabu nearly died at the hands of the Yakuza in Japan… until Mike Awesome stepped in and risked everything to save him.
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…
Late-great wrestling manager Gary Hart once wrote about the time Dusty Rhodes showcased a talent unbeknownst to some!
Learn the surprising way Dennis Rodman ‘wormed’ his way from the basketball court to the wrestling ring in WCW in the ’90s and in AEW…
In No Is A Four-Letter Word, Chris Jericho shares, with wit and humor, 20 principles for making it work despite living a busy lifestyle.
It’s not surprising that many wrestlers have made the jump to the movie screen. Here are wrestler movie appearances you may have missed!
Sean Oliver bravely opens in an eye-opening interview. From steroid use to abuse in the church and more, you won’t want to miss this one.
Every rumor was addressed, and no page was left unturned. This is the story of Chris Candido, as told by his brother, Jonny.
Our honest review of Ruslan C. Pashayev’s book, The Story of Catch: A Deep Dive into Lancashire’s Wrestling History and Myths Debunked.
Dale Pierce simultaneously loved and loathed pro wrestling with a passion that only someone who has devoted their life to it could fully grasp.
In 1996, a wrestler’s fight to use another luchador’s name ended when the second La Parka tragically died.
They made champions crumble, and fans weep. These 15 WWWF heels of WWE’s 1970s era left scars that haven’t healed in 50-plus years.
Discover 10 WWE finishing moves that deserve more love. These devastating moves defined careers but are often overlooked in history!
Shocking details on how a match between Bruno Sammartino and Freddie Blassie led to a frightening confrontation with the mob in New Jersey.
Discover 25 transformative 1950s professional wrestling gimmicks that shaped television and changed the business forever.
Ultimate Warrior refused entry into the 2011 WWE Hall of Fame. Ted DiBiase explains why it would have made quite a tense environment!
Vince McMahon doesn’t let his guard down often. However, just before drug testing was implemented in the WWF, Vince got wild (and then some)!
The Iron Sheik suffered awful tragedy in 2003 – the heartbreaking murder of his daughter, Marissa. He soon decided he would kill her murderer.
Herb Abrams built the UWF to rival WWE. Empty arenas, chaos, and a notorious final night turned it into one of wrestling’s starkest warnings.
Dave Millican is the premier championship belt maker in the world. He graciously opened his home for an interview where treasures awaited.
From Bret Hart, William Regal, Kurt Angle, and more, these wrestlers earned a frosty reception initially behind the scenes in WWE!
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.
When the world saw Paul Jones, he was a shell of his former self. Before becoming a legendary manager, he had a standout wrestling career.
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.
It all started so well. ECW was brought back to life in WWE, though not as fans endearingly remembered it.
Bobby Heenan was one of the funniest and most talented men ever to grace a wrestling show. But what was he like behind the scenes?
Conrad Thompson has been at the wrestling podcast mountain since 2013. Learn the surprising story behind his success!
The United States Championship has been held by many memorable legends. Here are the ten longest-reigning US Champions in combined days.
The transformation of Luchador Saúl Armendáriz to cross-trandressing “Exótico” Cassandro was fraught with pain and fame. Learn his hidden story!
Droz and D’Lo Brown open up about the botch that left Droz paralyzed and how forgiveness and strength brought them close in the aftermath.
During a 2001 taping of WWF Metal, Perry Saturn made a questionable decision with wrestler Mike Bell that changed his career for the worse.
Kevin Nash as Diesel ticked all the boxes for Vince McMahon as a world champion. This is the story of his record-breaking WWF title reign.
The Beverly Brothers’ Shaker Heights Spike is notorious for its dangerous execution and career-ending effects, particularly for one wrestler.
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.
The World Wide Wrestling Federation was the golden age of professional wrestling. Experience the excitement and nostalgia of WWE’s WWWF era!
Discover the secret, untold story of Sandra Gray, the genius costume designer behind pro wrestling’s greatest stars!
A particular choice of clothing led to The Texas Outlaws, Dick Murdoch and Dusty Rhodes, getting fired from the Australian territory in 1969!
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.
Former WWWF/WWE World Heavyweight Champion Pedro Morales and Buddy Austin were lucky to escape this party with their lives!
The Ultimate Warrior and Rick Rude feud went beyond the WWE ring, with stiff shots and brutal backstage fights wrestlers still talk about.
Relive RVD vs John Cena at ECW One Night Stand 2006, where a hostile Hammerstein crowd, ECW pride, and an unthinkable WWE title change rewrote…
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…
There were bullets in the back of the car, the registration paperwork was nowhere to be found, and Rhyno was moments from arrest.
Discover the 15 wrestlers who donned the face paint and gear of Sting, from tributes to storylines, celebrating the legacy of The Icon.
If you mess up with the wrong superstar, major consequences may follow! This story about Randy Orton and Mr. Kennedy illustrates just that.
Heavy metal and wrestling mesh perfectly. Here are seven times metal and professional wrestling rocked together over the years!
Lou Thesz lived quite a surprising life outside of the ring. Here, we dive into the lesser-known side hustles of a champion wrestler!
From WWE Tough Enough winner to mystery disappearance, Maven Huffman’s hidden battles led to an unexpected digital resurrection.
Wrestling theme songs are a significant part of a wrestler’s identity. And often, these songs come with a surprising history!
Pro wrestling is a community roaming place to place with squabbles quickly resolved and forgotten – unless you’re with Mr. Hughes!
George Pantas is an important name in wrestling. You may have even seen his contributions to the business without even realizing!
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…
US President Donald Trump’s complex WWE journey with thee McMahons—from WrestleMania to his Hall of Fame induction, and beyond.
For many of these wrestlers, all it took was one mistake. Discover shocking details on WWE’s Wrestlers’ Court!
The story of Shawn Michaels and Triple H is one where their in-ring storyline was very much inspired by incidents in real life.
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…
The World Bodybuilding Federation was an epic financial disaster for Vince McMahon and Titan Sports. Here’s how it all went wrong.
Matt Cappotelli: Tough Enough winner, controversy, and resilience. From the controversial Bob Holly incident to cancer diagnosis and legacy.
The very best matches of Puerto Rican great, Savio Vega
Million Dollar Man’s legacy tested: Ted DiBiase’s family faces $77M welfare scandal, federal charges, and courtroom battles.
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.
It’s the most enduring gimmick match in wrestling! Here’s a detailed history of 11 steel cage structures used over the years.
The Rock was visibly angry at the conclusion of SummerSlam 2002. Brock Lesnar was now the youngest WWE champion of all time.
Fritz Von Erich and the Christmas Day Massacre is remembered as one of the most infamous incidents in wrestling history.
In 1986, wrestler Adrian Adonis picked the wrong person to mess with, and according to witnesses, Dan Spivey almost ended Adonis’s life.
From tragic endings to wrestling superstars, here are 7 times wrestling harnessed the turtle power of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!
Many professional wrestlers have attempted to form a wrestling union but were met with failure. Some were blackballed completely.
To put it simply: his heart gave out. The tragic passing of Eddie Guerrero is still hard to fathom. He had just turned 38 the…
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…
Bill DeMott garnered a swarm of controversy over multiple reported instances of unprofessional activity. What happened, and why?
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.
When Hulk Hogan turned heel, an unhappy fan jumped into the ring to fight. This “fan” was not prepared for the consequences that followed!
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.
Using recent commentary and statements from legends in the past, we offer up a challenge to Vince McMahon – set your wrestlers free.
Tito Santana’s talent and charisma made him a WWF legend, but one championship always eluded him. Was it bad timing, or something more?
The tragic wrestling convention scene in The Wrestler was not filmed as planned. Here are 9 surprising facts about this Oscar-nominated film!
Here’s how at 26, The Undertaker became the then-youngest WWE Champion a year after his monumental, terrifying debut!
From busted rings to sold-out stadiums, Atsushi Onita turned FMW into Japan’s most extreme wrestling promotion and a cultural phenomenon.
The fight between Chris Jericho and Goldberg was bound to happen. Dating back to WCW, they didn’t see eye to eye. Things only escalated once…
ECW was around before Paul Heyman worked his magic. This is the story of “Hot Stuff” Eddie Gilbert and the oft-ignored original ECW.
Although he is sadly no longer with us, The Iron Sheik certainly stirred up much controversy and drama along the way on Twitter!
He called himself “The Stuff,” and he found himself caught up in a lot of it. Here’s a look at the tumultuous life of Marcus…
Kevin Nash ended Goldberg’s undefeated streak at Starrcade 1998, but controversy still surrounds WCW’s decision to end the run.
Learn if the Iron Sheik A&E Biography captured his story well in this documentary review by an award-winning wrestling documentarian.
The mischievous act Christian pulled on Chris Jericho was not only crafty but it showed true dedication to the art of ribbing!
Some of the most legendary feuds in wrestling involved wrestlers who had real-life animosity outside of the ring. Here are 5 such examples.
In 1985, a loaded Jim Crockett Promotions house show hit Philadelphia, delivering title fights and chaos fans still talk about.
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.
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.
With hundreds of thousands of dollars going into his WCW arrival, Glacier (Ray Lloyd) and Eric Bischoff were doomed from the start.
Jason Statham’s A Working Man topped Disney’s Snow White at #1. Discover how wrestling-inspired storytelling fueled its box office success.
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!
They wrestled in secret, dodged danger, and rewrote history: 25 Black women who built pro wrestling’s golden era.
From seeing The Undertaker outside of WWE and beyond, here are five times “The Forbidden Door” was opened in wrestling!
From personal accounts from family, friends, and fans, these stories show a different side of Rodney Anoa’i — the man fans knew as Yokozuna.
Rock legend Alice Cooper appeared at WrestleMania III in front of 93,173 people – an experience that pushed him out of his comfort zone!
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…
It’s strange to ponder this, but the legendary Undertaker and Mankind Hell in a Cell match wasn’t even supposed to take place!
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.
When Scott Steiner made things personal in WCW, it led to a locker room fight that left Diamond Dallas Page scarred.
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…
Sam Sheppard was convicted of murder in 1954. He’d later wrestle, where his anatomical knowledge inspired a popular Attitude Era move!
Andre the Giant wasn’t always easy to get along with. The following stories illustrate a not often known side of the “gentle” giant!
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 2012, I saw Matt Hardy almost die. Lying on the concrete floor in front of my feet, he convulsed and slipped in and out…
Tensions escalated when Brock Lesnar, during his time at OVW, squeezed Jim Cornette’s wife, Synn, despite her asking him not to.
From the inner workings of the WCW buyout to what it felt like behind the curtain on that final Monday Nitro, those who were there…
Hercules Hernandez’s WWE journey peaked and faltered in a strange encounter with Sid Vicious at Madison Square Garden in 1992.
Discover how Dave Bautista’s defiance against Vince McMahon in WWE led to a $100k fine and changed his career forever.
The Funk’s Western States Sports wrestling territory out of Amarillo took wrestling to great heights. Here’s the story of its rise and demise.
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.
Dive into the gripping, secret story of Magnum T.A. (Terry Allen), a professional wrestler whose promising career was cut short by tragedy.
WWE star Christopher Nowinski’s career-ending concussion helped expose CTE. What he did next behind the scenes changed sports forever.
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…
A snide remark spiraled into chaos in an infamous standoff between Sid Vicious, Brian Pillman, and Mike Graham: The Squeegee Incident!
This incident with the Big Show took place at The Marriott Hotel, where the wrestlers would stay after performing at The Nassau Coliseum.
Roddy Piper and Jimmy Snuka open up about their classic coconut segment on Piper’s Pit and the alleged damage Snuka suffered from it.
Jeff Jarrett has had shares of triumphs, failures, and controversies in wrestling. Global Force Wrestling is part of his complicated history.
Meet JJ Maguire, credited with over 100 wrestling entrance theme songs of your favorite WWE and WCW stars of the 1980s and ’90s!
The Shawn Michaels and Hulk Hogan match at SummerSlam 2005 promised greatness but is now infamous for its backstage drama and fallout!
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!
Before cameras rolled, these 25 heels built pro wrestling’s villain blueprint. Yet, most fans have never heard their names. Until now.
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.
Explore 30 facts about 19th-century wrestling. Discover the truths behind myths, legendary athletes, and the real “Golden Era” of wrestling.
Tragically, Michel Martel passed away at 33 after wrestling a match in Puerto Rico with the man accused of slaying Bruiser Brody.
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.
Read the gripping tale of The Ghastly Match Incident, a 2015 Stardom bout between Act Yasukawa and Yoshiko that went terribly wrong!
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…
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.
Wrestler Charles Wright opens up about his memorable botched WrestleMania 8 run-in and why he didn’t like his Papa Shango character.
Former TNA and Ring of Honor star Jimmy Rave surrendered his mind, limbs, and, unfortunately, his life to the business.
Evan Ginzburg’s Wrestling Rings, Blackboards, and Movie Sets shares 100 untold stories of wrestling legends, Hollywood, and personal triumphs.
Sean O’Haire captivated audiences in WCW and WWE, but behind the spotlight, his story took a darker turn, leaving a haunting legacy.
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…
Things didn’t go well for Steve Austin as “The Ringmaster” in the WWF. It wasn’t long until a stone-cold cup of tea changed his life…
Central States Wrestling (Heart of America Sports Attractions) was one of the original NWA territories that thrived until its demise in 1989.
Sweet Daddy Siki: an honest look at a gripping yet flawed documentary on a charismatic trailblazer who broke barriers in wrestling and song.
The Fingerpoke of Doom: The controversial moment involving Hulk Hogan and Kevin Nash that ignited the dramatic downfall of WCW.
The Shield debuted in WWE in 2012, and according to CM Punk, the original idea for this group did not play out as planned.
This important moment in professional wrestling history between Bruno Sammartino and Buddy Rogers all but marked the end of one career and launched another.
Triple H faced 4 injuries throughout his career, each nearly career-ending. Discover how he persevered through each life-threatening ordeal.
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…
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…
Top 12 Failed Tag Team Remakes – Each of these tag teams had hopes of riding a new wave of nostalgia – instead, they fell…
Vince McMahon planned for the dream match between Hulk Hogan and Steve Austin. Discover the startling reasons why it never took place!
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…
In 2005, Brock Lesnar and Shinsuke Nakamura entered into a bitter real-life rivalry over who would be Antonio Inoki’s next big star.
Ultimate Warrior on the pros and cons of performance-enhancing drugs and the deceptive means wrestlers used to obtain them.
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…
A DDT once ended matches. A sleeper once silenced arenas. 150 classic wrestling moves that lost their power, their purpose, or their place.
Ribbing, numerous clashes with the law, and Steiner Math, too, this is the shocking, controversial story of Scott Steiner!
One vengeful promoter shattered it all. See how that moment sparked the tell-all era of pro wrestling shoot interviews.
Thrown together at random, Steve Austin and Brian Pillman were known collectively as The Hollywood Blonds. This is their surprising story!
Les Thornton was a technical expert and original ‘bruiserweight’ in wrestling who laid the blueprint for future tough-as-nails competitors.
Big Time Wrestling in Detroit was one of the most successful NWA territories and introduced fans to hardcore wrestling before anyone else.
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…
Learn the surprising tale of the man behind the megaphone, one-of-a-kind wrestling personality The Mouth of the South: Jimmy Hart!
Terry Taylor, a magnificent territory wrestler, was de-feathered in the prime of his career, saddled as the Red Rooster.
There are numerous accounts of WWE wrestlers feeling intimidated by Vince McMahon. These stories shed light as to why!
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…
In the mid-’00s, Ring of Honor was thriving, while the NWA was a pale comparison to its glory days. However, this night, they changed history!
Learn the story behind the wrestling career of Bruce Hart and how, by his own admission, he changed the face of sports entertainment!
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!
“Nature Boy” Buddy Rogers was a wrestling pioneer. When he passed away in 1992, he left behind a complicated legacy, but a lasting one.
Big Time Wrestling in San Francisco was one of the most profitable NWA territories. However, unfortunate factors would lead to its demise.
Discover 5 horrific ECW injuries that changed careers: broken necks, severed ears, and the fire that nearly killed Terry Funk.
Jerry Lynn elevated wrestling to an art form. A tremendous technician, he delivered many classics. So why is this artist of the mat unsung?
Chief Don Eagle was a native American wrestling pioneer, remembered for screwjob finishes and an unsolved death that still begs answers.
Backstage at an indie show at the Elks Lodge in Queens, New York, WWE Stomping Grounds PPV wrap-up, how you can help former wrestling manager…
Curt Hennig was the embodiment of perfection. Take a deep-dive into the life of Mr. Perfect including stories shared for the very first time!
These grappling greats could have, and often did, cross the line to protect their gimmicks in and out of the wrestling ring!
What Stan Hansen did to the AWA World Heavyweight Championship belt after becoming champion is forever a part of wrestling lore.
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…
The British Bulldogs were known for their hijinks in and out of the ring, but some of these stories are just plain cruel.
These 25 pro wrestling storylines were cut short by injuries, politics, and creative changes that left fans wanting more of a payoff.
In this exclusive interview, Bruce Tharpe, former president of NWA, opens up about his life after years of silence.
Dynamite Kid Tom Billington was one of the best to ever lace up a pair of wrestling boots, but does his troubled past overshadow his…
It should have been a happy time in the life of Kerry Von Erich. His wife was due to have their second child. Instead, tragedy…
Tracy Smothers prayed before facing a 550-pound bear a second night in a row. The Humane Society and The World Wildlife Fund looked on.
Hulk Hogan and Hulkamania possibly never would have run wild had it not been for this bizarre agreement between Marvel Comics and the WWF!
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…
Want to be a wrestler? Sit under the learning tree as we discover that wrestling is much more than just a vehicle to fame and…
In a special episode of Dan & Benny In The Ring, the founder of Pro Wrestling Stories, JP Zarka, shares the stories behind his stories…
A 600-pound farm boy, Haystacks Calhoun became a wrestling icon known for his strength, charm, and enduring legacy–with a tragic end.
Roddy Piper, Blackjack Mulligan, and Jake Roberts share what inspired them to become professional wrestlers.
All Bobby Eaton wanted to do was be a wrestler. He did that, and then some. We remember one of the nicest guys in the…
Wrestling is a mainstream form of entertainment that attracts followers from all walks of life including these 15 celebrity wrestling fans.
Captain Lou Albano is forever etched in our memory. Here are his stories on wrestling, acting, drugs, and rock and roll.
Were these 10 WWE & WCW wrestlers’ names clever jabs or just backstage jokes? Discover the playful—and often spiteful—side of wrestling!
From Steve Austin to Roman Reigns, explore 10 unforgettable wrestling promos and the hidden secret story behind them!
Tito Santana and Rick Martel thrived as Strike Force but were doomed with a gimmick that killed their momentum. This is their story.
Debauchery, cross-dressing, and of course, women. This following story encapsulates territory era Ric Flair!
Steve Austin opens up on the death of Chyna, her impact on the sport, and how her legacy should be remembered.
Whether you’re a wrestling fan or new to his story, we analyze insights from the Andre the Giant HBO documentary that wasn’t known ’til now!
Captain Lou Albano opens up about his time on The Super Mario Bros. Super Show and he almost lost this role due to his facial…
The on-off friendship of Hulk Hogan & Randy Savage blurred the lines between fiction and reality. Discover the truth behind the Mega Powers.
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.
Discover the wild story of Survivor Series 1990: The Undertaker’s debut and WWE’s shocking Thanksgiving gamble, the Gobbledy Gooker!
A brutal backstage brawl left Sting battered and humiliated by ‘Dirty’ Dick Slater in one of wrestling’s most infamous one-sided fights.
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.
In January 1987, Bruiser Brody and Lex Luger clashed in a steel cage match that became legendary for all the wrong reasons.
Roxy Astor shares her unlikely journey into wrestling and what it was like to be a part of the history of GLOW.
From his unceremonious WWE departure, to achieving his dream as a commentator, and more, this unheard Matt Striker interview is not to miss!
The good, bad, and ugly of a shocking and surreal weekend at the Iron Sheik’s house that I’ll never forget!
A full WWE house show card in Louisville was advertised. By bell time, almost no one on the roster had made it to the building.
The controversial finish at WrestleMania 9. Bret Hart opens up, Hogan fires back—what really happened? The fallout may surprise you…
Steve Austin was hit by a car at WWE Survivor Series 1999. The way Rikishi delivered his confession almost eleven months later lives on!
In 1997, behavior on a fateful plane ride led to the arrest and unexpected detour to an Alaskan police cell for wrestling’s William Regal.
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!
Explore how gay culture helped shape the world of professional wrestling — and how different the industry would be without its influence.
These 10 legends dominated the ring but are snubbed by the WWE Hall of Fame. Discover who they are and why they deserve recognition!
How WWE and TNA’s rare 2012 talent exchange featuring Christian and Ric Flair laid the groundwork for today’s historic collaboration.
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!
Are Undertaker and Kane brothers? Plus, discover thirteen other wrestling family relationship facts you should know!
The original WCCW championship belt held by Kerry and Kevin Von Erich was found in a Tel Aviv shopping mall. This is how it got…
Learn the journey of 13 former WWE mid-card wrestlers who defied the odds and soared to world championship glory after leaving the company!
MTV’s Wrestling Society X was wild, fast-paced, and explosive. But somewhere along the way, something went wrong.
There was no hero moment. All Perry Saturn got in return for his heroics were two wounds from a .25 and years of hardship.
“Moondog” Lonnie Mayne proved crazy doesn’t mean crazy if there’s a method behind the madness. This is his memorable story.
How my old boss Vince McMahon once saved the day for a lot of workers who had been wished luck on their future endeavors.
Matt Bloom as Lord Tensai went from defeating John Cena and CM Punk to dancing in women’s lingerie less than a year later. Where did…
Many wrestlers have been able to make a jump into acting. We look at 5 wrestlers not named Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson who starred in…
Big John Studd won the 1989 Royal Rumble. Through speculative fiction, we propose an entertaining alternate timeline in WWE history!
The Gang Wars storyline in the then-WWF brought real-life segregation and stereotypes to the forefront on television back in 1997 and 1998.
In 2007, Bob Holly almost found himself in the middle of one of the most tragic stories in wrestling history – the Benoit family tragedy.
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…
Here is the story of Jimmy Savile, his brief foray into the realms of professional wrestling, and his subsequent dark life.
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…
The 5’2” queen who made men tap. Mildred Burke’s reign hid bone-snapping holds, backroom scandals, and wrestling’s forbidden truth.
The amazing, untold stories of Babs Wingo, Marva Scott, and Ethel Johnson, three African American wrestling sisters who paved the way.
“Before the interview, disaster struck!” Behind the curtain with Real Pro Wrestling Stories writers Jim Cornette and Brandon Easton.
Pro Wrestling Stories senior writer Evan Ginzburg reviews the book When It Was Real by Nikita Breznikov, with Scott Teal.
Wrestling ribs can be used as teaching tools and as tests of heart and dedication. Here is a collection of seven of our favorite tales.
“Sweet and Sour” Larry Sweeney had it all. But, his tragic fall left wrestling with one of its greatest lost legends and “What ifs?”
Not everyone in the wrestling industry gets along. Take, for instance, the not oft-discussed hatred between Bobby Heenan and Ultimate Warrior.
Revisit Adam Copeland’s autobiography and discover the untold stories behind Edge’s rise to WWE stardom, AEW, and beyond.
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.
Georgia Championship Wrestling was a prolific wrestling territory. However, greed, backstabbing, and Vince McMahon would lead to its demise.
As the leaves change, autumn and fall remind us of legendary wrestling moments. These 5 PPVs (now PLEs) defined rivalries and made history!
From the Anoa’is, Harts, Von Erichs, and beyond, here are wrestling families who have had their share of tragedy over the years.
These four wrestlers may surprise you, and they certainly can tell plenty of stories from their unique lives outside of the squared circle!
The faces in The Midnight Express changed over time, but the train kept rolling. This is the story of the tag team’s rise and tragic…
Discover 10 times nWo and DX indirectly competed: secret clashes, betrayals, and behind-the-scenes battles that rewrote wrestling history.
We honor Bobby Heenan by sharing some memorable stories by the legend himself and by the people who knew him best.
Bobby Duncum Sr. had a real fight aura. Bruno Sammartino scouted him, wrestlers revered him, yet fans forgot. Learn why his legend matters.
Discover 18 modern pro wrestling championship belts that define today’s craft, rivaling the legendary designs of wrestling’s golden era!
Pro wrestling comes with many tales of heartbreak outside the ring. These 21 wholesome WWE pictures prove brightness beyond the shadows!
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)!
Bruno Sammartino was my hero since I was 13, and I spent his final-ever Christmas with him. Here is how I found myself in that…
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…
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!
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!
Kurt Angle and Eddie Guerrero were brothers outside of the ring, but when things didn’t go to plan in the ring, things kicked off for…
In 1990, Vader saw his eye quite literally come out of the socket. Despite the gruesome injury, ending the match never crossed his mind!
Not every wrestling catchphrase is a hit. Some flop spectacularly, leaving even the biggest legends sounding awkward or forced!
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.
Relive what it was like to experience professional wrestling at the storied Sunnyside Garden Arena in Queens, New York, in the 1970s.
When Big Van Vader appeared on Boy Meets World, a wrestling monster became a sitcom father. Discover why these three episodes still resonate.
Barry Windham was a natural. But with a career of starts, stops, and frequent jumps to and from the NWA and WWF, should he have…
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…
Here are standout wrestling documentaries that have made their mark across three decades that provide highly recommended viewing.
Triple H’s botched Pedigree nearly paralyzed Marty Garner in 1996. The untold story of wrestling’s most dangerous move gone wrong.
Ric Flair opens up about why he shockingly abandoned WCW for arch-rival WWF in 1991, taking the NWA championship belt with him.
Cheating, betrayal, Shawn Michaels, and more. This is the sad, sordid story of Tammy Sytch and Chris Candido. Warning: It’s not pretty!
She could have easily been another wrestling casualty. Discover the surprising untold story of Amy Dumas, the woman behind WWE’s Lita!
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…
Before WWE & AEW, today’s biggest stars cut their teeth in SoCal’s Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG). Discover its untold story!
We look back on the first Bret Hart title reign, and how the WWF seemingly could not entirely pull the trigger this first time around.
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.
Mad Max has been around for 40+ years, and during that time, the franchise has had a lot of influence on the world of professional…
Brock Lesnar and Chris Jericho got into a heated altercation backstage at WWE SummerSlam 2016. Here’s how it all went down.
Ric Flair shared some strong words against the original author of his first book and internet fans for talking like they are on the inside.
An honest review of Netflix’s Hulk Hogan: Real American. What the doc gets right, what it skips, and what every wrestling fan should know.
What took place before the cameras started rolling makes the Randy Savage and Jake Roberts snake bite incident all the more entertaining!
Associate Producer of The Wrestler and 350 Days, lifelong wrestling fan Evan Ginzburg has been able to convert his love for wrestling into something big.
Sean Waltman reflects on the traumatic injury he sustained in 1992. Doctors advised him to never wrestle again, but he wouldn’t listen.
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.”
The love story of Triple H and Stephanie McMahon grew in Vince’s shadow, evolving into a real-life power couple with a controversial journey.
An MMA fight between Kurt Angle and Ken Shamrock was all but ready to occur. Here is how this epic battle almost went down.
In 1976, Stan Hansen changed the career of Bruno Sammartino forever. Here, both men discuss this near-tragic incident.
“No yob!” Is Mil Máscaras a no-selling, self-centered egomaniac? Or are the accusations of him being difficult to work with an unfair representation?
What really happened inside WWE’s most feared match? These 6 iconic Hell in a Cell moments come with stories fans were never told.
From training legendary professional wrestlers to gouging out eyes alongside Harley Race, Eddie Sharkey is the last of a dying breed!
Once the camera stops rolling, wrestlers have a sincere story to share. A Wrestling State of Mind: wrestlers talk the most memorable moments of their…
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!
World Wrestling Association (WWA Indianapolis) was a territory created out of rebellion with a legacy going back to the creation of the NWA.
Steroid Use in WWE was common. Hulk Hogan, The Rock, Lex Luger, The Ultimate Warrior, and other superstars open up on the topic.
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…
These 11 WWE stars stunned fans by capturing a world championship in their first year. Discover who soared to the top in record time!
Classic feuds have elements of reality. Such was the case with John Cena and CM Punk. Feelings portrayed on TV were not far from the…
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…
From rock stars to IRS agents, we spotlight 10 WWE wrestlers who weren’t just grappling giants and moonlighted as everyday professionals!
Terry Taylor recalls the stiff beatings he took from the Von Erichs in WCCW and the moment he nearly fought back backstage.
Will old school fans ever respect a Ricochet, and would today’s fans truly appreciate a ring general like Ric Flair or Jack Brisco?
These courageous wrestlers sacrificed their lives for the sake of others, even when it meant putting their own lives in danger.
When wrestling met the undead, the results were as bizarre as they were chaotic! Dive into 5 iconic showdowns where zombies took center ring!
The most nostalgic era of wrestling reflected in short, playful rhymes, that marvel at the grand theatre of wrestling from that golden age.
The first run in WWE for John Morrison was full of athletic exploits, name changes, and a controversy that soon led to his release.
There are legends in professional wrestling. And then there’s Bullet Bob Armstrong. He passed away at the age of 80 on August 27, 2020.
Chilling details on how Dino Bravo went from pro wrestling to getting involved with the mob and ultimately losing his life for it.
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!
Those involved in 2002 share the reasonings behind the fateful decision behind one of their most debatable moves: the WWE Draft!
Wrestler Brian Adams had a knack for landing himself in the middle of really odd and bizarre series of events. Here is his story.
Pro Wrestling Stories author Bobby Mathews joins WWE Hall of Famers JBL and Gerald Brisco to talk wrestling history on their podcast.
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.
Introducing LIVING THE GIMMICK by Bobby Mathews, a gripping novel on pro wrestling and its very real dark side!
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.
The fact that these significant WrestleMania matches surprisingly did not occur in the main event will forever surprise fans.
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…
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.
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.
Kevin Sullivan’s Army of Darkness dragged wrestling into a darker age, rattled parents, and redefined what a heel faction could be.
A middle school social studies teacher’s journey into the crazy world of professional wrestling and the wars he faced getting there.
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!
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…
The loss of Owen Hart shakes the professional wrestling world to this day. Stories of pranks and humility, Owen remains one of the most likable personalities…
“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…
When CM Punk did it in WWE, it was an angle. but when Ron Garvin walked out with the wrestling title in Knoxville, it was…
It isn’t easy to overstate how entrenched Fumi Saito has been in the professional wrestling industry for the past four decades.
Many wish they could be successful in professional wrestling, but for many, it ends up being only a pipedream. Enter fantasy wrestling!
Behind the Heroes of Wrestling pay-per-view: The late ’90s disaster that ended careers and humiliated legends.
Austin Idol underwent many changes and was in demand, often calling his own shots. But what if he had taken Vince McMahon Sr.’s advice?
After 10 years away, our writer and wrestling referee, Bobby Mathews chronicles what it was like to make a return to the indy scene.
One of the most fascinating ‘what if?’ scenarios in wrestling surrounds the demise of WCW and the advertised May 2001 WCW Big Bang PPV.
Shocking tales from Edge, Trish Stratus, John Cena, and more: the most interesting wrestling stories take place away from the public eye!
Here are twelve British wrestlers who were critical to the evolution of British wrestling and influenced some of the very best of today.
“30 men. Every man for himself. One victor” It’s the 2001 Royal Rumble, a match that will one day define the Attitude Era!
NJPW’s G1 Climax is wrestling elevated to Art. Learn the rich history of the biggest tournament in wrestling today!
During WWE’s Attitude Era, a controversial match pushed boundaries and left a controversial legacy in wrestling.
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.
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…
“Sensational” Sherri Martel was just that- utterly sensational. But what was her life truly like outside the ring?
Bob Holly opens up about how Chyna and Triple H were once the cameras were turned off, Jeff Jarrett holding the WWE hostage, and more.
From Elvis nearly facing Jerry Lawler to 10 of the best and 6 we’d rather forget, discover wrestling’s most unforgettable celebrity matches!
WCW’s Black Scorpion storyline promised mystery but delivered failure. Explore the disaster that almost derailed Sting’s first title reign.
Part 2 of a short fiction inspired by the real-life murder of Bruiser Brody
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…
Blackjack Mulligan was a West Texas roughneck known to take no nonsense from anybody. But on this night, he could not protect himself.
From hero to villain: Explore the hidden stories behind 15 pivotal professional wrestling heel turns that changed the game forever!
The phrase “Booker T and Red Bull” takes us to a time when two WWE wrestlers were learning the system through trial, and in this…
The story of what Eddie Guerrero built in WCW, what nearly destroyed the LWO, and why WWE and the wrestling world couldn’t keep it dead.
Many wrestlers have used the spear to finish opponents and cement their legacy, including these 13 who had deadly renditions of the move!