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Pro Wrestling Stories
  • Choose a Story
  • About
    • About Pro Wrestling Stories
    • Contact
      • E-mail
      • Facebook
      • Instagram
      • Twitter
    • Policies
      • Disclaimer, Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Disclosure Policies
      • Editorial Policies
    • Write For Us
  • Dark Tales
  • Interviews
  • Territories
  • Merch
    • Stories T-Shirt Collection
    • Logos T-Shirt Collection
    • Homage Tees (Use code “PWS”)
  • Meet The Team
  • More
    • Women Wrestling Pioneers
    • Shoot Fights
    • Lists
    • In Memoriam
    • Podcasts
      • Pro Wrestling Stories Presents (2015)
      • The Genius Cast with Lanny Poffo (2018-19)
      • The Pro Wrestling Stories Podcast (2020)
    • Pro Wrestling Documentaries, Books, and Movie Reviews
    • Today in History
    • Huge Crowd Reactions
    • Ask PWS
  • Facebook
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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.

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!

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.

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.

A wrestling great remembered: Terry Funk over the years.

Terry Funk Forever: Secret Journey of a Wrestling Icon

by JP Zarka  Aug 24, 2023

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

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…

Mark Madden - His Controversial Career in Pro Wrestling

Mark Madden – His Controversial Career in Pro Wrestling

by Stosh Jonjak  Jan 10, 2023

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

"The Loose Cannon" Brian Pillman.

Brian Pillman: His Tale of Deception Before Untimely Death

by Rob Ireland  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

Perry Saturn: The Heroism That Cost Him Everything

by Joseph Finnegan  Nov 18, 2025

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

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.

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.

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

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

by JP Zarka  Feb 6, 2023

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

"The 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.

Dallas Sportatorium - If Those Walls Could Talk

Dallas Sportatorium – If Those Walls Could Talk

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

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!

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.

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

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

by Si Powell  Nov 15, 2024

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

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

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

by Alexa Pruett  Apr 2, 2024

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

“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!

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!

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…

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

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Mar 5, 2026

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

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

Rey Mysterio: Secret Tale Behind WWE Championship Win

by Aaron Young  Feb 27, 2023

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

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.

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!

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

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

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jul 7, 2022

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

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?

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

Art Barr: Secret Tale of a Complex Wrestling Legend

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Feb 20, 2024

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

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…

Behind the tables, steel chairs, and barbed wire, there was also undeniably strong character work in ECW. Here are ten performers who turned scraps to gold as they developed before our eyes on the chaotic yet exciting stage of ECW.

10 Wrestlers Who Turned Scraps to Gold in ECW

by Griffin Kaye  Apr 22, 2025

The following performers turned scraps to gold as they developed before our eyes on the chaotic yet exciting stage of ECW!

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.

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.

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.

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

Les Thornton: Secret Life of The Original ‘Bruiserweight’

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 15, 2026

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

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!

L.A. Park and La Parka.

La Parka: A Fight Over a Name Ends in Tragedy

by Javier Ojst  Feb 13, 2023

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

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

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

by Cory Scullion  Jan 10, 2023

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

David Gann Remembered, 1971-2018

by Bobby Mathews  Nov 7, 2019

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

Chad Damiani Conducting an Interview

Chad Damiani: From Wrestling Hotlines to Hollywood

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Apr 8, 2026

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

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.

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

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

by JP Zarka  Mar 6, 2023

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

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…

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.

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.”

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

Jimmy Hart: Secret History of The Mouth of the South

by Benny J. Scala  Jun 19, 2023

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

42 Pre-TV Wrestling Good Guys Who Built the Babyface

by Ted Holland  Apr 15, 2026

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

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…

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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?

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…

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.

231 days into his 173-0 WCW streak, Goldberg faced William Regal. Here’s how it all went wrong that night in El Paso.

Goldberg and William Regal: El Paso Showdown Gone Wrong

by Joseph Finnegan  Sep 30, 2025

231 days into his 173-0 WCW streak, Goldberg faced William Regal. Here’s how it all went wrong that night in El Paso.

The Grand Wizard of Wrestling – Ernie Roth Remembered

by Evan Ginzburg  May 26, 2022

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

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

Bruiser Brody and Lex Luger Steel Cage Controversy

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 19, 2024

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

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.

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…

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!

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

Secret Billed Hometowns of 8 Old-School Wrestlers

by Benny J. Scala  Mar 9, 2023

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

Remembering Calgary Stampede Star, TIGER KHAN

by Evan Ginzburg  Nov 7, 2019

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

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

Hidden Secret Behind 10 Unforgettable Wrestling Promos!

by Aaron Young  Jan 11, 2024

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

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 Dangerous Alliance - Larry Zbyszko, Rick Rude, Bobby Eaton, Paul E. Dangerously (Paul Heyman), Arn Anderson, and Stunning Steve Austin

Dangerous Alliance: Their Brief, Impactful Influence on WCW

by Si Powell  Jan 13, 2023

The Dangerous Alliance and their brief yet impactful influence on WCW in the early ’90s with Paul E. Dangerously at the helm.

Professional wrestling 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!

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

Sandy Parker: Wrestling’s First Black Woman Champion

by Alexa Pruett  Nov 13, 2024

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

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.

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.

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.

"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.”

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.

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…

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!

Paul Heyman introduces fans to "the next big thing," Matt Morgan, on WWE SmackDown on October 30th, 2003.

Matt Morgan: From Rising Star to WWE Departure

by Javier Ojst  Mar 9, 2023

At 7’0″ and 300lbs, Matt Morgan should have ascended to the very top of the WWE. Which begs the question: what went wrong?

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.

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.

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

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

by Aarij Arifeen  Feb 12, 2026

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

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

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

by Nati Feliciano  Oct 22, 2025

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

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.

"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…

Dick Murdoch over the years.

Dick Murdoch – Always Controversial, Always Himself

by Javier Ojst  Feb 24, 2023

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

'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…

5 Wrestlers Besides The Rock Who Starred In Movies

5 Wrestlers Besides The Rock Who Starred In Movies

by Joseph Finnegan  Oct 17, 2024

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

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.

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…

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…

"The Big Valbowski" Val Venis

Val Venis and the Time WWE Filmed Two Adult Film Stars

by Luke Marcoccia  Sep 24, 2025

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

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

7 Unforgettable Wrestling Ribs and Road Stories

by Jim Phillips  Mar 10, 2023

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

“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.

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.

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!

Bret Hart and Mr. Perfect | Revolutionists of Wrestling in the '90s [Photo design: JP Zarka of ProWrestlingStories.com]

Bret Hart and Mr. Perfect | Revolutionists of Wrestling in the ’90s

by JP Zarka  Jul 7, 2022

Bret Hart and Mr. Perfect speak of their mutual love and respect and how their careers would never have been the same without the other.

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!

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

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

by Rick Fields  Sep 27, 2024

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

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.

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!

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

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

by Soul Tsukino  Feb 27, 2023

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

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…

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.

From former champions, Money in the Bank winners, to wrestlers who shared a stable with Hall of Fame superstars, these ten wrestlers had shown promise but were out of a job with WWE before reaching their full potential.

Wrestlers Who Didn’t Quite Reach Their Potential in WWE

by Aaron Young  Dec 31, 2022

From former champs to Money in the Bank winners, these wrestlers showed promise but were out of WWE before reaching their full potential.

The 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.

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?

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.

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.

RIP Owen Hart (1965-1999).

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

by Matt Pender  Jun 13, 2023

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

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.

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.

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

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

by Jonathan Clark  Oct 22, 2024

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

Ric Flair throws a few jabs at Mick Foley at WWE SummerSlam 2006.

Ric Flair and Mick Foley – Their Real-Life Backstage Encounter

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

For over twenty years, growing disdain between Ric Flair and Mick Foley led to a heated backstage encounter where a punch was thrown.

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!

CM Punk WWE Backstage Debut - Here's What He Had to Say! [Photo: Wrestling Daze on YouTube]

CM Punk WWE Backstage Debut – Here’s What He Had to Say!

by JP Zarka  Nov 20, 2019

CM Punk is never one to censor his thoughts! Here’s what he had to say about WWE creative, Seth Rollins, a potential return to the…

"The 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…

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!

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.

"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.

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.

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.

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

Wrestlers Who Made Face Paint Fashionable!

by Tim Buckler  Jan 6, 2023

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

The 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.

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

Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant: Secret History Behind Feud

by JP Zarka  Feb 16, 2023

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

Eddie Guerrero and Brock Lesnar – An Unlikely Hero Conquers

by Joseph Finnegan  Apr 19, 2021

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

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.

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

Rocky and WWE: 5 Ways The Movie Inspired Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  Jul 7, 2022

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

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

Undertaker – Wrestling Through First and Second-Degree Burns

by Braeden Farrell  Jun 19, 2023

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

The 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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Evan Ginzburg | A Journey Through Wrestling and The Arts

Evan Ginzburg | A Journey Through Wrestling and The Arts

by Javier Ojst  Feb 1, 2023

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.

Tracy Smothers wrestling a muzzleless bear in Continental Championship Wrestling.

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

by Javier Ojst  Mar 1, 2023

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

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.

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Feb 27, 2025

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

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

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

by Jim Phillips  Aug 12, 2024

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

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.

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

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 11, 2026

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

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.

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.

On October 27th, 1993, Sid Vicious and Arn Anderson were locked in one of pro wrestling’s most infamous and brutal real-life hotel fights, with a pair of scissors at the center of the chaos.​

Sid Vicious vs. Arn Anderson: The Bloody Scissors Fight

by JP Zarka  Sep 20, 2024

Uncover the infamous scissor fight between Sid Vicious and Arn Anderson—a brutal brawl that changed wrestling history and left lasting scars.​

The 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!

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.

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…

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

Undertaker WrestleMania Streak – The Superstar Meant To Break It

by Christopher King  Jun 7, 2021

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

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

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

by Rob Ireland  Feb 27, 2023

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

Ric Flair blasts wrestling "smarks."

Ric Flair on Wrestling Fans Who Use Wrestling Terminology

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 13, 2026

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

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!

On September 1, 2018, Chris Jericho (disguised as Pentagon) made a surprise appearance at All In.

Chris Jericho – How He Barely Avoided Disaster at All In

by Luke Marcoccia  Sep 24, 2025

Moments before Chris Jericho made a shock debut at All In, problems arose backstage. Here’s how it all came exceptionally close to backfiring!

A Stinking Place to Die: Part I

by Bobby Mathews  Nov 7, 2019

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

Terrible Ted the Wrestling Bear, billed at 7 feet tall and roughly 700 pounds, became one of wrestling’s strangest attractions, living for a time beneath the Hart family porch in Calgary before later spending nights in a county jail cell.

Terrible Ted The Wrestling Bear’s Wild, Dangerous Run

by JP Zarka  Apr 24, 2026

Terrible Ted The Wrestling Bear’s wild career, from Hart family porch to county jail, and why his act now reads as pure cruelty.

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

Brawl For All: WWE’s Failed Boxing Experiment

by JP Zarka  Nov 15, 2024

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

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

Sean Oliver: Secret Life Behind Wrestling Shoot Interviews

by Rob Ireland  May 31, 2023

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

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!

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.

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.

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

Blayze of Glory: The Madusa/Alundra Blayze Story

by Si Powell  Jan 18, 2023

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

It's hard to believe that the original ECW ended over twenty years ago. On top of many great memories, ECW lives on through Taz's FTW Championship, which is still defended in AEW today. The secret behind this storied "outlaw" title may surprise many, as it has an unexpected story to tell!

FTW Championship: Surprising History of an Outlaw Title

by Aarij Arifeen  May 15, 2023

ECW lives on through the FTW Championship. A storied, surprising history surrounds the “outlaw” that is still defended in AEW today!

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

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

by JP Zarka  Mar 12, 2026

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

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.

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

21 Wholesome WWE Pictures Proving Dreams Come True!

by Tim Buckler  Nov 6, 2023

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

Shawn Michaels and 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. 

Rick Martel and his brother, Michel Martel.

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

by Javier Ojst  Dec 8, 2023

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

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!

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…

Samoa Joe and Kevin Nash's heated backstage altercation became a memorable moment in TNA's history, revealing the raw emotions that existed behind the scenes.

Samoa Joe, Kevin Nash, and their Fight Over Scott Hall

by Braeden Farrell  Nov 6, 2024

At TNA’s Turning Point 2007, Samoa Joe’s bold promo targeting Scott Hall triggered an explosive confrontation with Kevin Nash backstage.

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…

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.

Mad Max | 9 Undeniable Times Its Movies Inspired Pro Wrestling

Mad Max: 9 Unmistakable Influences on Pro Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  Feb 6, 2023

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

Ken Shamrock on a Potential WWE Return, His Dream Opponent

by James Klonowski  Oct 17, 2024

Why hasn’t Ken Shamrock returned to the WWE? Shamrock himself speculates. He also gives his thoughts on a dream match that never came to be.

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

Blackjack Mulligan: Fist-Fighting with Two Wrestling Legends!

by Christopher M. Hendricks  Feb 22, 2023

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

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

12 Failed Wrestling Tag Team Remakes and Rehashes

by Leroy Travers  Nov 27, 2024

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

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

Hulk Hogan vs. Ultimate Warrior Rematch Gone Wrong

by JP Zarka  Nov 1, 2024

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

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!

Unfortunately, there are "fans" who can't help themselves at the shows. They get caught up in a moment and take it upon themselves to jump the barricade and skirt around security to ambush a wrestler. As ridiculous as it may seem, this has happened numerous times over the years. Dive into the insanity of these people and how wrestlers took care of them for doing so. 

4 Times a Fan Unexpectedly Ambushed a Wrestler

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

Here are 4 times ‘fans’ startlingly ambushed a wrestler. Dive into the insanity of these moments and how wrestlers took care of things after.

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.

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!

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

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

by JP Zarka  Feb 19, 2025

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

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.

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

Shawn Michaels and Undertaker: Secret History Behind Feud

by Joseph Finnegan  Feb 8, 2023

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

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

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

by Vinny Berry  Feb 6, 2023

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

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.

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!

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

NWA Central States Wrestling: The Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Nov 10, 2023

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

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 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.

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

Shawn Michaels and the Infamous Syracuse Incident

by Griffin Kaye  Dec 15, 2025

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

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!

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!

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.

TERRY TAYLOR Shares His Thoughts on Today’s Wrestling Audience

by Matt Pender  Feb 7, 2022

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

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.

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!

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.

Triple H cuts "that" promo on Booker T.

Triple H and Booker T – WWE’s Most Shameful Feud

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

The feud between Triple H and Booker T in 2003 is one of WWE’s most shameful feuds and still leaves a sour taste in the…

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.

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.

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…

WCW Monday Nitro | Behind the Curtain on Its Final Show

WCW Monday Nitro: Secret Story of Its Final Show

by Matt Pender  Jul 3, 2023

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

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

Hulk Hogan vs Steve Austin: Startling Reasons it Never Happened

by JP Zarka  Jul 14, 2023

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

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…

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…

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!

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

Eddie Graham and Mike Graham: Legacy & Dark Secret Tragedy

by Javier Ojst  May 14, 2025

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

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

Sabu Is Gone, But His Pain-Filled Legacy Remains

by Javier Ojst  May 15, 2025

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

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

Larry Zbyszko: Boo On Me – His Secret Tale

by Benny J. Scala  May 8, 2025

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

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!

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.

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

Enson Inoue and His Dangerous Confrontation with the Yakuza

by Geries Tadros  Feb 27, 2023

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

The 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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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

13 Most Devastating Spears in Wrestling Revealed!

by Kevin Tanza  Sep 22, 2023

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

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.

"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.

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

William Regal: Plane Ride Scandal that Led to 1997 Arrest

by Matt Roberts  Nov 26, 2024

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

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!

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!

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.

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.

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

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

by JP Zarka  Apr 14, 2026

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

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.

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!

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

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

From 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!

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Nov 7, 2019

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

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.

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)!

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…

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.

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…

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…

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…

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!

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!

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…

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.

When a worked wrestling match turns into a shoot (or real fight), anything can happen and usually does. We look back to 1977 when Antonio Inoki retired The Great Antonio from wrestling.

The Great Antonio and Antonio Inoki Match that Ended in Disaster

by Javier Ojst  May 3, 2023

When Antonio Inoki retired The Great Antonio from wrestling on December 9th, 1977, it almost cost the famed eccentric strongman his life.

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

Rockin’ Rebel: Wrestling’s Shocking Unspoken Murder

by Griffin Kaye  Jan 10, 2023

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

Bret Hart.

Bret Hart – 12 Stories That Show Who the Real Hitman Is

by Matt Pender  Jun 29, 2024

Bret Hart has had a lot to say about his peers, but what do they have to say about him? These 12 memorable stories show…

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!

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.

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

10 Golden Era Wrestlers in WWE’s Ruthless Aggression Era

by Griffin Kaye  Nov 23, 2023

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

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.

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 Big Time Wrestling in San Fransisco wrestling territory thrived initially under the tutelage of Joe Malcewicz (top left) and later Roy Shire (top right) and stars such as Pat Patterson, Ray Stevens, Roddy Piper, Pepper Gomez, booker Red Bastien, Chavo (Sr.) and Mando Guerrero, "Moondog" Lonnie Mayne, "High Chief" Peter Maivia, and a host of others.

Big Time Wrestling in San Francisco | Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Apr 22, 2023

Big Time Wrestling in San Francisco was one of the most profitable NWA territories. However, unfortunate factors would lead to its demise.

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.

These trios of wrestling managers cornered the heel market and made life miserable for babyfaces in their respective eras!

Wrestling Manager Trios That Changed the Game in 3 Eras

by Benny J. Scala  Mar 8, 2023

These trios of wrestling managers cornered the heel market and made life miserable for babyfaces in their respective eras!

"Stone Cold" Steve Austin and Vince McMahon.

Steve Austin and Vince McMahon – The Story Behind The Feud!

by Christopher King  Jan 10, 2023

Steve Austin and Vince McMahon took wrestling to great heights. Here is the surprising truth behind one of wrestling’s greatest rivalries.

Goldberg and Chris Jericho had a long history of not seeing eye to eye. When Goldberg made his way to WWE in 2003, things did not go well.

Goldberg and Chris Jericho – Their Infamous Backstage Brawl

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

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…

From attending The Undertaker’s first wedding to heartfelt moments with legends like Yokozuna, here are 50 unforgettable fan encounters with wrestlers.

50+ Unforgettable Fan Encounters with Wrestling Legends

by Javier Ojst  Aug 15, 2025

50+ unforgettable fan encounters with wrestling legends. Heartwarming, hilarious, and wild tales revealing a rare glimpse behind the curtain!

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.

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.

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…

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

Gillberg: Rise and Fall of Wrestling’s Beloved Underdog

by Javier Ojst  Oct 29, 2024

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

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

Angelo Savoldi – The World’s Oldest Retired Wrestler

by Benny J. Scala  May 9, 2023

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

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!

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.

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

Triple H & Stephanie McMahon: From Storyline to Secret Romance

by Aarij Arifeen  Jan 16, 2024

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

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.

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

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

by JP Zarka  Jun 28, 2023

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

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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

Ribs and Practical Jokes in Wrestling: 20 Classic Tales

by Matt Pender  Sep 4, 2025

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

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…

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?

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.

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.

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.

Big Daddy vs Giant Haystacks ruled 1970s and 1980s Britain. But the feud was never just good versus evil. Most fans only heard half the story! Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

Big Daddy vs Giant Haystacks: Dark Truth Behind Britain’s Feud

by Louis Bellinger  Feb 23, 2026

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…

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.

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

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

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 27, 2023

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

Whether you're a wrestling fan or new to his story, we analyze insights from the Andre the Giant HBO documentary that wasn't known–until now!

12 Untold Stories About Andre the Giant from HBO Documentary

by Braeden Farrell  Sep 24, 2024

Whether you’re a wrestling fan or new to his story, we analyze insights from the Andre the Giant HBO documentary that wasn’t known ’til now!

Professional wrestling super-agent Bill Behrens and a young AJ Styles.

Bill Behrens: Wrestling’s Super-Agent Who Discovered AJ Styles

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Nov 27, 2023

You may not be familiar with who he is, but you know who his clients are. Bill Behrens is the wrestling super-agent who discovered AJ…

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.

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!

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

12 Women Shamefully Not in the WWE Hall of Fame

by Nati Feliciano  Dec 11, 2024

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

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.

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…

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!”

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!

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.

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

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

by Tim Buckler  Apr 10, 2022

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

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…

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…

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!

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.

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

Mystery of Missing Wrestling Championship Belts

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 25, 2023

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

25 Pro Wrestling Feuds Cut Short By Real Drama

by Jason LeBlanc  Sep 16, 2025

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

The 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.

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

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

by Javier Ojst  May 15, 2024

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

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

10 Wrestlers Whose Names Were Ribs in WWE & WCW

by Griffin Kaye  Sep 6, 2024

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

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

Joey Mercury: The Night One Ladder Changed Everything

by Braeden Farrell  Nov 18, 2025

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

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.

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!

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

Paul Jones – Wrestling Territory Star ‘No. 1’

by Bobby Mathews  Jul 2, 2021

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

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…

Mil Máscaras - No-Selling Prima Donna or Misunderstood Superhero?

Mil Máscaras – “No Yob!” Prima Donna or Misunderstood Superhero?

by Javier Ojst  Feb 4, 2026

“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?

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.

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

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 8, 2023

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

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

Jimmy Rave – Surrendering His Mind and Body to Wrestling

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

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

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!

"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!

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…

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!

Bill DeMott as Hugh Morris in WCW, and in later years as head trainer at the WWE Performance Trainer.

Bill DeMott – No Laughing Matter: His Controversial Story

by Griffin Kaye  Dec 27, 2025

Bill DeMott garnered a swarm of controversy over multiple reported instances of unprofessional activity. What happened, and why?

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!

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

Arn Anderson on the nWo Spoof That Hurt His Family

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

Wrestler Brian Adams as Kona Crush at ‎April 4th, 1993's WrestleMania 9 pay-per-view at ‎‎Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Wrestler Brian Adams | Shaka Brah – The Story of Crush

by M. M. Stilko  Apr 22, 2025

Wrestler Brian Adams had a knack for landing himself in the middle of really odd and bizarre series of events. Here is his story.

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.

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.

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

"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!

A Stinking Place to Die: Part II

by Bobby Mathews  Nov 7, 2019

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

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!

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…

United States Championship | 10 Longest-Reigning Champs

by Griffin Kaye  May 26, 2022

The United States Championship has been held by many memorable legends. Here are the ten longest-reigning US Champions in combined days.

The 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.

"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.

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.

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

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

by Ian Aldous  Feb 16, 2023

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

Wrestler Ben Justice.

Ben Justice: A Wrestling Legacy Remembered

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 31, 2024

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

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.

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 fierce yet wonderful Mae Young.

Mae Young – A Fierce Fighter In (and Out) of the Ring

by Javier Ojst  Jan 12, 2023

Brash, athletic, and tough as nails, the fierce yet wonderful Mae Young was a born performer, and professional wrestling was the perfect fit.

A younger Adam Copeland as the "Rated R Superstar" Edge in WWE and Copeland more recently in All Elite Wrestling.

Adam Copeland on Edge – An Honest Review

by Teagan Wiltshire  Aug 28, 2024

Revisit Adam Copeland’s autobiography and discover the untold stories behind Edge’s rise to WWE stardom, AEW, and beyond.

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.

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

WWE Louisville 1996 House Show That Nearly Fell Apart

by Simon Boehm  Apr 23, 2026

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

Things turned south quickly when Antonio Inoki faced Akram "Iki" Pahalwan in Pakistan in 1976.

Antonio Inoki in Pakistan: His Controversial, Legendary Visits

by Aarij Arifeen  Dec 8, 2025

In 1976, while Antonio Inoki was facing one of the top performers in Pakistan, much controversy followed. Here is how it all unfolded.

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.

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.

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!

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…

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.

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.

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…

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!

Goldberg and Kevin Nash - The Night The Streak Died

Why Goldberg’s Streak Ended: The Secret Reason Revealed

by Joseph Finnegan  Sep 13, 2024

Kevin Nash ended Goldberg’s undefeated streak at Starrcade 1998, but controversy still surrounds WCW’s decision to end the run.

Army veteran Bill Pierce, known as Chris Michaels, breaks his silence about his WWF jobber days, revealing untold encounters with The Undertaker, the Ric Flair moment, and more.

Chris Michaels (Bill Pierce): The WWF ‘Jobber’ Who Kept Going

by Jim Phillips  Jul 15, 2025

Army veteran Bill Pierce (Chris Michaels) breaks silence on his WWF jobber days, revealing Undertaker secrets and the Ric Flair moment.

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…

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

The Tragic Final Days of Eddie Guerrero

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 10, 2023

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

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…

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

Canadian Wrestlers With a Rich History in the Sport

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 10, 2023

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

In 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.

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…

Ribbing, numerous clashes with the law, and Steiner Math, too, this is the shocking, controversial story of Scott Steiner!

Scott Steiner: The Secret History of Big Poppa Pump

by Si Powell  Jan 30, 2023

Ribbing, numerous clashes with the law, and Steiner Math, too, this is the shocking, controversial story of Scott Steiner!

The 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.

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

Paul Orndorff: Multi-Sport Star Before Wrestling

by Ron Matejko  Nov 18, 2025

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

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!

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.

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

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

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 30, 2023

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

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

Bullet Bob Armstrong: Remembering a Legend

by Bobby Mathews  Sep 8, 2022

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

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

by Bobby Mathews  Aug 13, 2025

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

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

WWF Drug and Sex Scandal That Rocked The Tabloids in 1992

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

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

These five rivalries pushed Shawn Michaels to run the gamut of emotions in front of the audience and are feuds fans will never forget.

5 Rivalries Shawn Michaels Will Be Remembered For

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 4, 2023

Shawn Michaels ran the gamut of emotions in these five rivalries and are feuds wrestling fans will never forget.

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

Western States Sports – Funk Amarillo Territory | The Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Apr 22, 2023

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

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

Bobby Eaton: Secret History of a Beautiful Wrestler

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 16, 2023

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

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

WCW Comic Disaster: How It All Went Wrong!

by Javier Ojst  Apr 30, 2023

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

Maven Huffman’s transformation, from middle school teacher to WWE star after winning the first-ever Tough Enough on MTV to YouTube sensation in recent years, masks a darker journey marked by hidden struggles, devastating losses, and a path to redemption that tested everything.

Maven: WWE Tough Enough Made Him, But Life Tested Him

by Matt Roberts  Aug 6, 2025

From WWE Tough Enough winner to mystery disappearance, Maven Huffman’s hidden battles led to an unexpected digital resurrection.

"The rumors of me hating the Papa Shango gimmick are true." Wrestler Charles Wright (also known for playing the roles of The Godfather and Kama in WWE) opens up about why he hated playing the role of Papa Shango.

Papa Shango: Why Charles Wright (Godfather) Disliked The Role

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Feb 3, 2023

Wrestler Charles Wright opens up about his memorable botched WrestleMania 8 run-in and why he didn’t like his Papa Shango character.

From Zelina Vega to Victor Zangiev, here are the surprising times the Street Fighter franchise and professional wrestling influenced one another!

Hidden Link Between Street Fighter and Pro Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  Feb 27, 2023

You may be surprised at how much the Street Fighter video game franchise has influenced professional wrestling (and vice versa!)

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.

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Dec 27, 2023

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

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.

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…

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…

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.

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

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

by JP Zarka  Feb 11, 2025

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

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!

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.

Jeff Hardy and Sting Incident: Hitting Rock Bottom in TNA

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 23, 2024

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

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…

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

Chokeslam! Secret History of an Iconic Wrestling Move

by Tim Buckler  Feb 9, 2023

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

Pat Patterson and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.

The Rock, WWE Legends Share Thoughts on Pat Patterson

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Oct 6, 2023

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

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…

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 Undertaker and Shawn Michaels Fight That Almost Was

The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels Fight That Almost Was

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

The Undertaker stood stoically backstage in Gorilla Position with his fists wrapped ready to confront Shawn Michaels at any moment.

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

Bobby Heenan: Secret History on the Man Behind the Mic

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 25, 2023

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

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!

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

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

by Jim Phillips  Oct 18, 2024

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

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!

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

5 Wrestling Feuds Where There Was Real-Life Heat

by Joseph Finnegan  Jun 29, 2023

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

Championship Belt Maker Dave Millican Shares His Pieces of History

Dave Millican: Tales From a Premier Championship Belt Maker

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 18, 2023

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

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. 

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.

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

Sandra Gray: Wrestling’s Unsung Game-Changer

by Tim Buckler  Oct 12, 2023

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

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!

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

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

by Aarij Arifeen  Mar 9, 2023

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

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.

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!

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

21 Hall of Famers WWE Never Crowned Champions

by Rahul Amare  Nov 4, 2024

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

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…

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.

"The American Giant" Buck Brezner over the years.

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

by Javier Ojst  Feb 3, 2023

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

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…

“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?

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.

JP Zarka, seen here proudly wearing a Pro Wrestling Stories shirt, created the website and brand in 2015 to preserve wrestling’s untold history. He opened up about the journey behind it all during an April 10, 2025 interview on Radio Woking.

JP Zarka on the Inside Story of Pro Wrestling Stories

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Apr 19, 2025

JP Zarka, Founder of Pro Wrestling Stories, shares his unexpected journey from the classroom to building a major wrestling history website.

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.

Sir Mo, alongside enhancement talent who have the unenviable task of carrying King Mabel upon his throne! After being crowned king, a King of the Ring championship belt would be commissioned, which would soon lead to controversy.

Mabel and the King of the Ring Championship Belt Controversy

by Conor McCorkindale  Apr 9, 2026

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

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.

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!

WCW’s first Halloween Havoc in 1989 teetered on the edge of disaster until The Great Muta emerged as an unexpected hero!

The Night The Great Muta Saved Halloween Havoc

by JP Zarka  Oct 30, 2024

In 1989, WCW’s first Halloween Havoc promised thrills–but not like this. Disaster struck, and The Great Muta emerged as the unlikely hero!

"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!

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.

"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.

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!

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.

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!

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

The Party Pedro Morales and Buddy Austin Barely Escaped Alive

by Javier Ojst  May 15, 2023

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

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?

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…

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?

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…

Discover 5 horrific ECW injuries that changed careers: broken necks, severed ears, and the fire that nearly killed Terry Funk.

5 Lesser-Known ECW Injuries That Nearly Killed Wrestlers

by Griffin Kaye  Feb 27, 2025

Discover 5 horrific ECW injuries that changed careers: broken necks, severed ears, and the fire that nearly killed Terry Funk.

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.

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.

10 Masked Wrestlers Whose Identities Were Quite Obvious!

10 Masked Wrestlers Whose Identities Were Quite Obvious!

by Griffin Kaye  Dec 23, 2023

Here are ten of our favorite examples of wrestlers donning a mask to conceal their identity. As you’ll find, they weren’t fooling anybody!

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

20 Nostalgic Wrestling Photos That Will Take You Back!

by Braeden Farrell  May 25, 2021

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

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

JBL vs. Blue Meanie ECW Incident That Went Too Far

by Braeden Farrell  Nov 18, 2025

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

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

36 Pro Wrestling Terms You Rarely Hear Anymore

by Jason LeBlanc  May 13, 2025

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

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…

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

WWE Attitude Era Match Type With a Controversial History

by Alexa Pruett  Oct 9, 2025

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

The 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…

11 Strangest WCW Fantasy Gimmicks That Baffled Fans

by Jonathan Clark  Dec 6, 2023

Explore the wildest gimmicks of the WCW, from KISS Demon to The Yeti. Discover how WCW’s outlandish characters rivaled the WWF!

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

11 WWE Stars Who Won World Championship in Their First Year

by Kevin Tanza  Oct 28, 2024

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

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.

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

Unfortunate Fate of Mr. Kennedy’s Notorious MITB Win

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 27, 2025

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

The 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!

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.

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

6 Wrestling House Show Title Changes Not Seen on TV

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 18, 2025

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

Butcher Paul Vachon over the years.

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Mar 5, 2024

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

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.

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.

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,…

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!

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…

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

Billy Jack Haynes: From WWE Hero to Accused Killer

by Griffin Kaye  Jul 7, 2025

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

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

6 Wrestlers Who Greatly Benefited from the Royal Rumble

by Joseph Finnegan  Jul 13, 2022

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

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

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

by Rutvik Keche  May 5, 2026

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

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.

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…

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.

Velvet McIntyre was a barefoot high-flyer, world champion, and tag team pioneer who helped shape women’s wrestling. But has WWE noticed? Photo Credit: WWE. Artwork by Pro Wrestling Stories.

Velvet McIntyre: WWE’s Barefoot Lass Kicker’s Untold Story

by Michael Marek  Apr 13, 2026

Velvet McIntyre was a barefoot high-flyer, world champion, and tag team pioneer who helped shape women’s wrestling. But has WWE noticed?

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!

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

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

by Matthew Redepenning  Jan 15, 2024

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

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.

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

Sam Sheppard – How a Murder Inspired a Wrestling Career

by Michael Marek  Jul 10, 2025

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

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.

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.

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!

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!

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

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

by Jim Phillips  Sep 11, 2024

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

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

Wrestler Nanjo Singh and His Wife’s Brutal Murder

by Andy Dujlovic  Apr 10, 2023

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

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!

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

‘Kane’ Glenn Jacobs on His Hotel Room Surprise

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 27, 2023

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

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

15 Times Wrestlers Held Multiple World Championships at Once

by Griffin Kaye  Jun 21, 2023

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

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

Terry Taylor and the Failed Red Rooster Gimmick

by Benny J. Scala  Aug 1, 2023

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

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.

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!

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.

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

9 Crazy Jake Roberts Stories You May Have Missed

by JP Zarka  May 21, 2025

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

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

8 Wrestler Music Video Cameos You May Have Missed

by Tim Buckler  May 21, 2025

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

Bret Hart didn't hold back when sharing his thoughts on the "weakling" and "phony hero," Ultimate Warrior.

Bret Hart on Ultimate Warrior Letting Down a Make-A-Wish Kid

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

Bret Hart shares the unfortunate story of the time Ultimate Warrior let down a Make-a-Wish kid on one of his final wishes.

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.

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.

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.

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…

"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.

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!

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

Gobbledy Gooker: WWE’s Thanksgiving Gamble

by JP Zarka  Nov 27, 2025

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

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…

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.

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.

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Apr 22, 2025

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

Many wish they could be successful in professional wrestling, but for many, it ends up being only a pipedream. Enter fantasy wrestling!

Fantasy Wrestling – What Is It All About?

by Joel Potter  Jan 4, 2023

Many wish they could be successful in professional wrestling, but for many, it ends up being only a pipedream. Enter fantasy wrestling!

Ric Flair and Bret Hart – A War of Words!

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

Lou Thesz – The Side Business Hustles of a Champion Wrestler

by Ron Matejko  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

The incomparable Jim Johnston.

Jim Johnston – The Man Behind Legendary WWE Theme Songs

by Christopher King  Feb 3, 2022

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

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.

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

Adrian Street: From Glitz to Grappling, His Legendary Tale

by Javier Ojst  May 11, 2024

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

Kurt Angle and Shane McMahon stole the show at the 2001 King of the Ring. In doing so, they nearly sent Shane’s dad Vince McMahon to an early grave!

Kurt Angle, Shane McMahon, and the Match Vince Almost Stopped

by James Klonowski  Mar 3, 2023

Kurt Angle and Shane McMahon stole the show at the 2001 King of the Ring. In doing so, they nearly sent Vince McMahon to an…

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…

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

Killer Khan: Secret Story of the Scourge From Mongolia

by Jim Phillips  Dec 30, 2023

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

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?

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!

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

3 Dark Nights That Nearly Destroyed St. Louis Wrestling

by Rick Fields  Mar 18, 2026

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

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.

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

Sweet Daddy Siki Documentary: An Honest Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 6, 2025

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

“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?”

AJ Styles debuts at 2016's WWE Royal Rumble.

AJ Styles and His Unlikely Journey to WWE

by James Klonowski  Sep 6, 2021

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

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.

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.

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

Bret Hart and Eric Bischoff: A Bitter Feud of Words

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 12, 2023

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

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

Steve Austin: The 4 AM Promo That Changed It All

by JP Zarka  Oct 24, 2024

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

Chris Jericho: no stranger to the drink!

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

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jul 7, 2022

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

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.

Pro Wrestling Stories Senior Author and Historian Bobby Mathews joins Stories with Brisco & Bradshaw to discuss unsung heroes of professional wrestling, such as "The Spoiler" Don Jardine. Throughout the episode, Gerald Brisco and JBL dig into and validate Mathews' research for Pro Wrestling Stories on The Spoiler's rise and lasting influence.

Pro Wrestling Stories’ Bobby Mathews Joins Gerald Brisco and JBL

by JP Zarka  Nov 14, 2025

Pro Wrestling Stories author Bobby Mathews joins WWE Hall of Famers JBL and Gerald Brisco to talk wrestling history on their podcast.

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 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.

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!

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

Wrestling Match Types Used Once in WWE But Never Again

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 12, 2023

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

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

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

by Lanny Poffo  Apr 22, 2023

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

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…

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!

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

The Last Fall by Sheldon Goldberg: Honest Wrestling Book Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 1, 2025

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

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

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

by JP Zarka  Nov 5, 2024

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

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.”

Randy Orton, Vince McMahon, and Mr. Kennedy.

How Randy Orton Got Mr. Kennedy Fired from WWE

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 5, 2023

If you mess up with the wrong superstar, major consequences may follow! This story about Randy Orton and Mr. Kennedy illustrates just that.

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.

"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!

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

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

by Tim Buckler  Jan 30, 2023

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

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.

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…

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

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

by Matthew Redepenning  Oct 24, 2024

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

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!

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

Eddie Guerrero’s Final Gift to CM Punk Before Death

by Richard Thompson  Sep 3, 2025

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

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.

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

Mark Tendler: Murder at the Crazy Clown

by PW Wade  Sep 6, 2023

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

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

World Wrestling Association: WWA Indianapolis Wrestling Territory

by Jim Phillips  Apr 22, 2023

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

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

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

by Joseph Finnegan  Aug 23, 2024

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

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…

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

Classic Wrestling Christmas Gifts: 12 Timeless Treasures

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Dec 17, 2024

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

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.

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…

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

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

by Matt Pender  Mar 10, 2023

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

“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.

Spotted at an airport circa ’93 — the unsung architects of wrestling’s next boom. Before the Attitude Era broke records, these New Generation stars were quietly rewriting the blueprint. Their overlooked feuds didn’t just fill airtime—they sparked a revolution.

15 Unsung Feuds of WWF’s New Generation Era

by Jason LeBlanc  Apr 22, 2025

15 top rivalries of WWF’s New Generation era that captivated fans but never got the spotlight they deserved. Wrestling nostalgia at its best!

The Rock and Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania X8. Icon vs. Icon. One of the greatest WrestleMania moments of all time.

The Rock and Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania X8: True Story

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

The Rock and Hulk Hogan. Icon vs Icon. One of the greatest matches in WrestleMania history, but things did not go as planned!

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

Pee-wee Herman’s Unlikely Pro Wrestling Crossover

by Marc Madison  Oct 2, 2024

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

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.

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!

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!

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!

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.

Sega Genesis - Every Wrestling Game Brought Back!

Ranking Every Wrestling Game on Sega Genesis

by Tim Buckler  Jul 6, 2023

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

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 25, 2023

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

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.

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

Revealed: The Untold Story of AWA Team Challenge Series

by Javier Ojst  Sep 25, 2024

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

"The Tempest" Delfino Epindola Serrano.

The Tempest – The Unusual Story of an Often Forgotten Luchador

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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.

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

Powerbomb! Secret History on a Devastating Wrestling Move

by Ethan Absler  Feb 9, 2023

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

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!

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

Kevin Nash and Roddy Piper: Their Heated Backstage Fight!

by Geries Tadros  Mar 3, 2023

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

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…

"Big Daddy Cool" Diesel.

Diesel: From Failed Gimmicks to Record-Breaking WWF Champion

by Si Powell  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

Ultimate Warrior on the Deceptive Way Wrestlers Obtained PEDs

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

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

by Matt Roberts  Feb 18, 2026

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

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

Wrestling Arrests You May Not Be Aware Of!

by Javier Ojst  May 7, 2025

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

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…

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.

Sami Zayn and Cesaro/Claudio Castagnoli embrace after their match at NXT Arrival, February 27, 2014.

The Respectful Side of Wrestling: Unexpected Friendships

by Alex  Feb 8, 2023

These stories of respect and friendship in wrestling demonstrate the special bonds that exist outside the ring.

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!

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!

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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

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

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

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

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…

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

Bret Hart and his Often Overlooked First Championship Reign

by Si Powell  Apr 22, 2025

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

Before there was a "Macho Man" Randy Savage, there was Randy Poffo, an aspiring baseball player.

Randy Savage: The Forgotten Baseball Career of Randy Poffo

by Ron Matejko  Jun 26, 2023

Before Randy Poffo changed the wrestling world as “Macho Man” Randy Savage, he was a talented baseball player with big-league aspirations.

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…

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…

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…

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…

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.

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.

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!

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.

In this unheard until now Pro Wrestling Stories interview, Matt Striker opens up about teaching, life in wrestling, tragedy, and more.

Matt Striker – Life in the Classroom, Squared Circle, and Beyond

by Javier Ojst  Sep 30, 2024

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

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

DDP and Hulk Hogan: An Unlikely Tale of Admiration

by Matt Pender  Feb 16, 2023

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

The British Bulldogs - Wrestling's Cruelest Locker Room 'Bullies'

The British Bulldogs: Their Notorious Behavior Behind-the-Scenes

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

The British Bulldogs were known for their hijinks in and out of the ring, but some of these stories are just plain cruel.

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

Christian and the Bizarre Deal Between WWE and TNA in 2012

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 24, 2025

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

The 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!

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.

“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.

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