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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.

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

Bobby Duncum Sr: The Cowboy Heel Who Made Wrestling Real

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 22, 2026

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

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

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

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 13, 2024

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

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!

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.

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!

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.

Bob Backlund had some incredible matches before, during, and after his legendary WWWF Championship reign.

Witnessing History: Bob Backlund’s Best Live Bouts

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 27, 2023

Here are ten of the best Bob Backlund matches we saw live before, during, and after his 5-plus-year run as WWWF World Heavyweight Champion.

Conrad Thompson: World Champion podcast host and wrestling promoter.

Conrad Thompson: Surprising Story Behind His Success

by JP Zarka  Jan 15, 2023

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

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…

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.

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.

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

Alex Wright and Paul Roma: When Pro Wrestling Turned Real

by Ian Aldous  Sep 17, 2024

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

"The 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.

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

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

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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.

Tully Blanchard Origins - His Memorable Football Career Before Wrestling

Tully Blanchard | His Memorable Football Career Before Wrestling

by Ron Matejko  Jul 7, 2022

Whether it was football or wrestling, the spotlight has always shined bright on the second-generation star, Tully Blanchard.

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.

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!

Dusty Rhodes: Secret History on the American Dream

by Matt Pender  Jul 21, 2023

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

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!

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

Ted DiBiase – The Art of Being a Million Dollar Heel

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

Lanny Poffo – From Hurricanes to Earthquakes: The Next Chapter

by Lanny Poffo  Nov 27, 2020

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

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.

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.

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…

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

The Tragic Final Days of Eddie Guerrero

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 10, 2023

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

The 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.

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!

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.

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 signature sign-off for Chris Hyatte.

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

by Bobby Mathews  Aug 5, 2020

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

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!

"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.

"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…

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.

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.

Steve Austin opens up about his friend Chyna, sharing how he feels she should be remembered.

What Steve Austin Has to Say About Chyna’s Legacy

by JP Zarka  Jan 26, 2023

Steve Austin opens up on the death of Chyna, her impact on the sport, and how her legacy should be remembered.

Steel Cage: 11 Memorable Structures and Its History in Wrestling

Steel Cage: 11 Memorable Structures and Its History in Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  May 26, 2022

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

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

7 Wrestlers Turned Politicians: Who Succeeded, Who Failed?

by Bobby Mathews  Oct 18, 2024

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

For years, controversy shrouded the murder of Bruiser Brody. Reports from those present the night of his stabbing raise the question: was his murder a cover-up? We look closely into this through accounts from those there while celebrating his life through tales from those who knew him best.

Bruiser Brody: His Unpunished Murder and Influence in Wrestling

by Matt Pender  Mar 6, 2023

For years, controversy surrounded the murder of Bruiser Brody. Was it a cover-up? We look into this and his influence on pro wrestling.

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.

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…

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.

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.

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.

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

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

by Braeden Farrell  Mar 3, 2023

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

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!

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.

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

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

by Ethan Absler  May 4, 2026

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

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.

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.

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

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

by Geries Tadros  May 7, 2026

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

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!

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!

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.

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!

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!

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.

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

Wrestling’s Most Shocking and Unusual Match Locations

by Ethan Absler  Jan 12, 2023

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

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.

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.

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

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

by Jim Phillips  Mar 4, 2026

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

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.

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

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

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 3, 2025

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

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.

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.

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.

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

Wrestling Human Oddities: 20 Freakish Sideshow Acts

by Javier Ojst  Oct 19, 2024

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

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

Vader’s Shocking Rookie Error Against Bruiser Brody

by Javier Ojst  Jul 13, 2023

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

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.

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!

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.

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.”

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!

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.

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

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

by JP Zarka  Mar 3, 2023

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

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

Fritz Von Erich and the Christmas Day Massacre

by Drew Buxton  Jan 10, 2023

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

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 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.

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

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

by Heishin Ko  Dec 12, 2020

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

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.

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.

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.

Eiji Ezaki (Hayabusa) is stretchered out of the FMW ring on October 22, 2001, after tragedy struck during his final match against Mammoth Sasaki. The devastating moment left horrified wrestlers and fans watching as one of professional wrestling’s most innovative high-flyers faced an uncertain future. This tragic image remains one of wrestling’s most pivotal moments, with fellow performers like Chris Jericho reconsidering their own aerial techniques in light of the accident.

Hayabusa’s Last Match: When Loyalty Turned to Tragedy

by Marc Madison  Nov 12, 2025

On October 22, 2001, pro wrestling saw a moment that defined and ended Hayabusa’s career when a routine move went tragically wrong.

The 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.

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!

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

Chief Jay Strongbow and His Notorious Backstage Reputation

by Griffin Kaye  May 20, 2023

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

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…

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.

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.

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Nov 22, 2023

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

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.

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.

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

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

by JP Zarka  Jan 26, 2023

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

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.

Why Vince McMahon Needs To Set His Wrestlers Free

by JP Zarka  Nov 7, 2019

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

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,…

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.

Tim Storm with his hero Harley Race, and as NWA World Heavyweight Champion.

Tim Storm: From Super Fan to NWA World Champion

by Ian Aldous  May 21, 2025

From avid professional wrestling fan to NWA World Heavyweight Champion, this is the amazing tale of Tim Storm!

The Japanese fans in attendance were not reserved on this night. In his NJPW debut, Big Van Vader ended the win streak of Antonio Inoki in the most horrible way fans ever could have imagined. It led to a riot in sold-out Sumo Hall and NJPW being banned from the venue. Here is how it all went down, flaming seat cushion frisbees and all!

Big Van Vader and Antonio Inoki Incite a Riot in Sumo Hall

by Javier Ojst  Jan 21, 2026

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

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…

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

My War Into The Crazy World of Wrestling

by Ian Matthew Harper  Feb 2, 2022

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

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.

"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.”

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.

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.

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

Scott Steiner and DDP: Brutal Real-Life WCW Fight

by JP Zarka  Mar 20, 2026

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

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.

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!

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 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.

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…

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.

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.

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

10 Pro Wrestling Matches That Turned Into Real Fights!

by Kelvin Vega  Aug 27, 2024

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

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

Secret History of Entrance Theme Music in Wrestling

by Jeff Frantom  Jan 26, 2024

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

“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?”

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…

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.

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?

15 Celebrities You May Not Know Were Wrestling Fans!

15 Celebrities You May Not Know Were Wrestling Fans!

by Darren Paltrowitz  Jun 9, 2023

Wrestling is a mainstream form of entertainment that attracts followers from all walks of life including these 15 celebrity wrestling fans.

Bret Hart gives a reluctant nod as Hulk Hogan steps in against Yokozuna at WrestleMania 9, just moments after Hart lost the WWF Championship. The aftermath would spark decades of controversy.

WrestleMania 9 Controversy Behind Hulk Hogan Winning the Title

by JP Zarka  Apr 22, 2025

The controversial finish at WrestleMania 9. Bret Hart opens up, Hogan fires back—what really happened? The fallout may surprise you…

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

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

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 18, 2023

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

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

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

by Cameron Dennis Gorrie  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

Sandra Gray: Wrestling’s Unsung Game-Changer

by Tim Buckler  Oct 12, 2023

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

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

Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels – Surprising Details Behind Their Feud

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

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

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?

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…

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.

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

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

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Apr 21, 2024

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

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…

Perry Saturn and Mike Bell moments before things turned ugly.

Perry Saturn and Mike Bell – When Things Turned Ugly!

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

During a 2001 taping of WWF Metal, Perry Saturn made a questionable decision with wrestler Mike Bell that changed his career for the worse.

"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…

Long-time friends Chris Benoit and Bob Holly. As it turns out, Chris had invited Bob over to his home on the day the Benoit Family nightmare began.

Bob Holly Reveals Unexpected Invitation From Chris Benoit

by Luke Marcoccia  Sep 24, 2025

In 2007, Bob Holly almost found himself in the middle of one of the most tragic stories in wrestling history – the Benoit family tragedy.

Brickhouse Brown – Passes Away After Initially Kicking Out From Death

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 10, 2023

We are sad to report that Brickhouse Brown has, in fact, passed away on July 29, 2018 after initially kicking out from death nine days…

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!

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

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

by Andy Smith  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Dec 8, 2023

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

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.

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.

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!

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Jul 17, 2023

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

Kevin Sullivan and his Army of Darkness - "Superstar" Billy Graham, The Fallen Angel (Nancy Benoit), Kevin Sullivan, The Lock (Winona Littleheart), and Sir Oliver Humperdink. Before there was D-Generation X, the nWo, and even The Four Horsemen, there was Kevin Sullivan and His Army of Darkness who shook professional wrestling from its comfort zone forever.

Kevin Sullivan’s Army of Darkness: Wrestling’s Darkest Faction

by Javier Ojst  Nov 18, 2025

Kevin Sullivan’s Army of Darkness dragged wrestling into a darker age, rattled parents, and redefined what a heel faction could be.

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…

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.

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

My Wild Weekend At The Iron Sheik’s House

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 12, 2023

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

Roddy Piper - From The Streets to the Big Time

Roddy Piper – From The Streets to the Big Time

by Rob Ireland  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

Wrestlers Who Live Unique Lives Outside of the Ring

by Braeden Farrell  May 25, 2023

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

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.

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…

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!

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

Roddy Piper and Ric Flair – A Less Familiar Story

by Chris Dreibelbis  Feb 6, 2023

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

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…

The Young Backs as "Generation Me" in TNA.

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

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 27, 2025

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

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…

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?

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.

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 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!

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.

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!

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.

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

Blackjack Mulligan: The Night a Fan Stabbed Him

by Bobby Mathews  May 21, 2025

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

Are WWE and AEW working together?

AEW and WWE Conspiracy: Are They Working Together?

by Tim Buckler  Nov 7, 2019

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

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.

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…

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

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Apr 17, 2025

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

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.

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.

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.

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…

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)!

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!

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.

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

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

by Braeden Farrell  Feb 8, 2023

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

Wrestling Podcast Hits – The Very Best You Don’t Want To Miss

by Greg Phillips  Jan 3, 2024

Look no further for a great wrestling podcast! Here’s the best in squared circle audio, including some hidden gems and our readers’ favorites podcasts too.

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!

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…

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.

Take a stroll down memory lane and look at the story of the WWF/E logo's evolution!

WWE Logo – How It’s Evolved Over The Years

by Tim Buckler  Apr 22, 2025

The WWE logo brings an instant wave of nostalgia for wrestling fans. Take a stroll down memory lane and look at the logo’s evolution!

Dustin Rhodes and Raven Illustrate Why Wrestling is an Art Form

Dustin Rhodes and Raven Illustrate Why Wrestling is an Art Form

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jul 7, 2022

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

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

The Rockers and Their Canceled WWF Championship Win

by Matt Pender  Feb 16, 2023

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

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Sep 20, 2023

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

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!

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

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

by Alexa Pruett  Apr 13, 2023

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

Wrestler Dr. Jerry Graham.

The Tragic Tale of Wrestler Dr. Jerry Graham

by Bobby Mathews  Mar 10, 2023

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

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.

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!

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.

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…

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.

FRED GEOBOLD: NYC Wrestling Radio Pioneer, Unsung Hero

by Evan Ginzburg  Nov 7, 2019

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

"I never lost a fight, but I never started one either!" - Brian Blair opens up about the brutal fight he had with Matt Borne (who was later known as the original Doink The Clown in the WWF).

Matt Borne (Doink The Clown) and His Brutal Brawl with Brian Blair

by JP Zarka  Apr 15, 2025

Brian Blair details the time he got into a brutal fight with Matt Borne, who was later known in the WWF as Doink The Clown.

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

7 Hall of Fame Stories WWE Prefers Not Told

by Griffin Kaye  May 29, 2025

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

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

Asuka and Her Surprising Life Outside of Wrestling

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 11, 2023

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

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!

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

When Hacksaw Jim Duggan Broke the Hearts of Millions

by Mike Gentry  Apr 20, 2023

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

A 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

Winning the NWA World's Heavyweight Championship often cemented legacies in the annals of professional wrestling history. But what happened once former NWA World Champions jumped ship to the WWWF, WWF, or WWE? We examine just how much success these past champions had up north, compared to their successes found in the NWA. As you'll find, many of these legends never saw the same height of success once under the thumb of Vince McMahon.

How WWE Treated 13 Former NWA Champions

by Griffin Kaye  Apr 13, 2026

As you’ll find, many of these former NWA World Champions never saw the same height of success once under the thumb of Vince McMahon.

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…

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

Sean O’Haire: Wrestling’s Tragic Cautionary Tale

by Matt Roberts  Feb 18, 2026

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

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 7, 2022

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

When "Earthquake" John Tenta faced off against Kōji Kitao on March 30th, 1991, things turned real!

Earthquake John Tenta and Kōji Kitao – When Things Turned Real!

by Javier Ojst  Jan 21, 2026

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

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

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

by Ian Aldous  Oct 2, 2023

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

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.

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

Earliest Wrestling Footage: 1908 Hack vs. Rogers Review

by Ruslan C. Pashayev  Aug 27, 2025

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

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!

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

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

by Javier Ojst  Apr 21, 2023

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

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

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

by Benny J. Scala  Sep 27, 2023

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

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

Shawn Michaels on What Today’s WWE Wrestlers Are Missing

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Apr 9, 2026

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

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.

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.

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.

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…

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!

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.

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.

“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.

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

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

by Tim Buckler  Jan 24, 2024

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

From 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.

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

Jacqueline Moore – A Tough, Shining Star Out of Texas

by Ebony Nash  Jan 11, 2023

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

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.

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

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

by Ian Douglass  Jun 3, 2023

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

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.

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.

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.

Sting in WWE: Where did it all go wrong?

Sting: His Unlikely WWE Journey (and Where It Went Wrong)

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 20, 2023

It took 14 years for Vince McMahon to hire Sting after purchasing WCW. Here’s his unlikely journey to WWE and where it all went wrong.

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.

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!

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

Jimmy Savile: A Predator’s Time in Wrestling

by Griffin Kaye  Feb 7, 2024

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

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.

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

Bam Bam Bigelow: Secret Life of a WWE Legend

by JP Zarka  Mar 19, 2024

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

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

Was Randy Savage Looking to Return to WWE in 2010?

by Tim Buckler  Jul 31, 2023

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

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…

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

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

by Joey Mills  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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. 

"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!

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.

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.

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.

The Iron Sheik made Twitter humble!

The Late-Great Iron Sheik’s 10 Greatest Tweets

by Braeden Farrell  Jun 7, 2023

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

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.

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.

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!

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

Dual Identities: Secret Life of Wrestlers on the Road

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Feb 13, 2023

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

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.

Jake "The Snake" Roberts with his reptilian counterpart Damian, The British Bulldogs' Matilda, and Koko B Ware with his beloved bird, Frankie.

Chilling Stories on the Animals in Professional Wrestling

by Matt Pender  Jan 12, 2023

Here is a shocking look into the real-life, tragic stories of many of our favorite animals in professional wrestling.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

Barry Windham was a natural. But with a career of starts, stops, and frequent jumps to and from the NWA and WWF, should he have been bigger?

Barry Windham: An All-Time Great (and What Might Have Been)

by Evan Ginzburg  Dec 12, 2025

Barry Windham was a natural. But with a career of starts, stops, and frequent jumps to and from the NWA and WWF, should he have…

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!

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

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

by Griffin Kaye  Feb 26, 2026

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

"The 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…

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…

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

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

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

The Messy Fight Between Paul Orndorff and Vader in WCW

by Matt Pender  Jun 25, 2023

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

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.

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.

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

13 WWE Mid-Carders Turned World Champions After Departure!

by Kevin Tanza  Nov 13, 2023

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

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

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

by Matt Pender  Nov 8, 2024

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

WrestleMania 24 Malfunction That Injured Dozens of WWE Fans

WrestleMania 24 Malfunction That Injured Dozens of WWE Fans

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 1, 2021

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

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

Brawl For All: WWE’s Failed Boxing Experiment

by JP Zarka  Nov 15, 2024

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

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

Shawn Michaels And Diesel – Good Friends, Better Enemies

by Dan Owens  Jun 11, 2021

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

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

The Black Scorpion: WCW’s Great Unmasking Failure

by Javier Ojst  Sep 16, 2024

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

Cheating, betrayal, Shawn Michaels, and more. This is the sad, sordid story of Tammy Sytch and Chris Candido. Warning: It’s not pretty!

Tammy Sytch & Chris Candido: The Sad Story of Sunny & Skip

by Matt Pender  Sep 4, 2025

Cheating, betrayal, Shawn Michaels, and more. This is the sad, sordid story of Tammy Sytch and Chris Candido. Warning: It’s not pretty!

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!

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…

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

10 WWE Wrestlers Whose Gimmick Involved a Day Job

by Matt Roberts  Jan 5, 2024

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

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

Legendary Piper’s Pit segment in 1984, just before Roddy Piper hit Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka with a coconut!

Roddy Piper and Jimmy Snuka Piper’s Pit Coconut Incident

by JP Zarka  Feb 5, 2023

Roddy Piper and Jimmy Snuka open up about their classic coconut segment on Piper’s Pit and the alleged damage Snuka suffered from it.

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

Sandman Incident: Controversial Time ECW Went Too Far

by Javier Ojst  Aug 15, 2024

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

Uncover 15 untold stories behind Bret Hart and Stone Cold Steve Austin’s legendary rivalry, from their technical masterpiece at Survivor Series 1996 in Madison Square Garden (foreground) to the iconic WrestleMania 13 double-turn at Rosemont Horizon (background), immortalized with its induction into WWE’s Hall of Fame.

Bret Hart vs Stone Cold: 15 Untold Stories of Their HOF Feud

by JP Zarka  Apr 22, 2025

Uncover 15 untold stories behind Bret Hart vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin’s legendary rivalry and its historic WWE Hall of Fame induction.

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.

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.

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!

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

6 Times Professional Wrestlers Were Blinded

by Benny J. Scala  Aug 29, 2024

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

Chavo. Mando. Héctor. Eddie. Guerrero. A family name long associated with professional wrestling. But before each made their mark on this sport, it was their father, Gory Guerrero, paving the way for generations to come. In Mexico in 1954, to shouts of "Gory! Gory! Gory!" the patriarch of the Guerrero wrestling dynasty nearly dethroned long-reigning NWA Champion Lou Thesz.

Gory Guerrero and the Story of Lou Thesz’s Near-Dethroning

by Javier Ojst  Feb 16, 2023

Guerrero. A name long associated with wrestling. Before Eddie and his brothers, their father Gory Guerrero paved the way in an exciting way.

Lucha Libre | 5 Dark Stories With Questions Unanswered

by Javier Ojst  May 1, 2023

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

Scott Hall opens up about how he lost respect for Bret Hart after going to his house.

Scott Hall on the “Shrine” Bret Hart Had For Himself

by Matt Pender  Feb 17, 2025

Scott Hall ruled the squared circle and had no time for wrestling figures or being a mark. Bret Hart, on the other hand…

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!

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?

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?

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!

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.

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!

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!

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.

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…

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

Buffalo Jim Barrier: His Shocking, Unsolved Death

by Javier Ojst  Aug 15, 2024

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

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?

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

Muhammad Ali and Gene Kiniski: A Battle of Words!

by Javier Ojst  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

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

by Richard Thompson  Oct 11, 2024

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

"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…

From TNA’s leadership under Dixie Carter (left) through AJ Styles’ reign as the standard bearer (center) to Mike Santana’s historic Bound for Glory 2025 win (right), the brand has weathered the storm over more than two decades of evolution.

Inside TNA’s 20-Year Fight for Wrestling Glory

by Ian Aldous  Oct 14, 2025

Discover TNA’s high-stakes journey from PPV gamble to Impact resurgence: chaos, innovation, and a daring quest to rival WWE.

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…

Big Van Vader.

Vader and the Time His Eye Popped Out During a Match

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

In 1990, Vader saw his eye quite literally come out of the socket. Despite the gruesome injury, ending the match never crossed his mind!

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

10 Non-Russian Wrestlers Who Played Russian Villains

by Griffin Kaye  Apr 17, 2025

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

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!

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…

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…

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

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

by Ruslan C. Pashayev  Jan 6, 2025

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Legends of professional wrestling: Bruno Sammartino and Freddie Blassie.

Bruno Sammartino and Freddie Blassie – Too Real for the Mob

by Bobby Mathews  Mar 20, 2024

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

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

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

by JP Zarka  Feb 8, 2023

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

Marty Jannetty: no stranger to controversy.

Marty Jannetty: His Secret, Turbulent Life After The Rockers

by Si Powell  Aug 9, 2023

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

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.

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.

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…

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.

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…

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…

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.

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

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

by Braeden Farrell  Nov 6, 2024

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

From 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.

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

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

by Nati Feliciano  Oct 22, 2025

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

The 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.

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.

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

JP Zarka of ProWrestlingStories.com Interview

by Pro Wrestling Stories  May 13, 2022

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

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

The Kliq: 10 Tales of Their WWE Locker Room Stranglehold

by Joseph Finnegan  Jul 11, 2025

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

From the tragic ending for one particular wrestling turtle to the many superstars like John Cena, Sheamus, and Kevin Nash who've got in on the act, here are six times the wrestling world harnessed the turtle power of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Wrestling Connection!

by Tim Buckler  Aug 24, 2022

From tragic endings to wrestling superstars, here are 7 times wrestling harnessed the turtle power of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!

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

FTW Championship: Surprising History of an Outlaw Title

by Aarij Arifeen  May 15, 2023

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

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

Sherri Martel: Secret History of a True Sensation

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 24, 2023

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

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

Silver King: Questions After Death of Nacho Libre Star Luchador

by Javier Ojst  Aug 18, 2025

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

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?

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…

"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.

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.”

"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!

"Kamala" James Harris over the years. He was an imposing presence in the ring but a gentle giant outside it.

Kamala: Secret Tale of WWE Woes, Poor Pay, and Treatment

by JP Zarka  Feb 25, 2023

Kamala was a gentle soul outside the ring. This begs the question: did his kind nature lead to him being taken advantage of in WWE?

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.

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…

"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.

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

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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!

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 5, 2023

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

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…

3 Wrestling Documentaries That Hit The Mark

Wrestling Documentaries That Hit The Mark

by Javier Ojst  Feb 28, 2023

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

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!

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.

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 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!

Vince McMahon, Ric Flair, and the story behind the first WWE Draft on March 25th, 2002.

WWE Draft: The Inside Story Behind the First Brand Split

by Aaron Young  Aug 23, 2022

Those involved in 2002 share the reasonings behind the fateful decision behind one of their most debatable moves: the WWE Draft!

Father and son - Vincent James McMahon and Vincent Kennedy McMahon

Vince McMahon Opens Up About His Father, Vince Sr.

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

Vince McMahon opens up about his relationship with his father, Vince Sr., opening up about the only time his father said ‘I love you’ to…

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.

Kurt Angle opens up about his past struggles in hopes that it changes lives for the better.

Kurt Angle – Using His Past Struggles to Help Others

by JP Zarka  Jul 26, 2021

Kurt Angle has lost many close loved ones. He almost lost himself, and he has a story to share that he hopes will save lives.

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

Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF): Wrestling Territories

by Jim Phillips  Apr 22, 2023

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

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

The Great Khali and the Accident That Killed a Wrestler

by Javier Ojst  Apr 15, 2024

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

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!

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…

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.

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

Bruno Sammartino’s Last Christmas: Untold Tales Shared

by Benny J. Scala  Dec 17, 2024

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

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!

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

Ted DiBiase – The Case of an Unrecognized WWF Champion

by Conor McCorkindale  Feb 6, 2023

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

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.

Backstage at the Indies – “It Hurts, It Hurts!”, WWE Stomping Grounds Wrap-Up

by Evan Ginzburg  Nov 7, 2019

Backstage at an indie show at the Elks Lodge in Queens, New York, WWE Stomping Grounds PPV wrap-up, how you can help former wrestling manager…

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.

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

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

by Matt Pender  Jul 7, 2022

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

Fumi Saito alongside Bruiser Brody and Jimmy Snuka.

Fumi Saito: Japan’s Leading Wrestling Historian and Journalist

by Javier Ojst  Nov 8, 2022

It isn’t easy to overstate how entrenched Fumi Saito has been in the professional wrestling industry for the past four decades.

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

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

by Tim Buckler  Sep 18, 2024

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

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.

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

SAITO Remembered: "Brother, He Was Double-Tough"

Masa Saito Remembered: “Brother, He Was Double-Tough”

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 10, 2023

“What everyone seems to remember is the arrest of Masa Saito – and subsequent conviction – while competing in the AWA in 1984.”

Hulk Hogan and Sting face off at WCW Starrcade 1997.

Hulk Hogan and Sting – The Mess at WCW Starrcade 1997

by Joseph Finnegan  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

Van Hammer: From WCW Hype to a Life Derailed

by Griffin Kaye  Apr 27, 2026

Van Hammer’s WCW rise, heat with the boys, and the complicated legacy remembered by Marc Mero and his former wife, Alexis.

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!)

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.

The infamous catchphrase "You can't see me!" by John Cena has been given the meme treatment over the years. Here is the backstory behind this catchy yet bizarre catchphrase.

John Cena – “You Can’t See Me!” | The Taunt’s Surprising Origin

by Braeden Farrell  Sep 13, 2021

“You can’t see me!” How an inside joke led to the creation of one of wrestling’s most infamous catchphrases for John Cena.

From 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?

The Times When Wrestling Took It Too Far

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

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

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?

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!

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

Bruno Sammartino and Buddy Rogers – The 1963 WWWF Title Screwjob

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

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

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!

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…

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.

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.

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?

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!

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!

Ric Flair - The Nature Boy's Wild Night Out in the '70s

Ric Flair – The Nature Boy’s Wild Night Out in the ’70s

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

Debauchery, cross-dressing, and of course, women. This following story encapsulates territory era Ric Flair!

Whatever you do, don't drink Booker T's Red Bulls!

Booker T and Red Bull: A Tale of Locker Room Etiquette

by Alex  Feb 16, 2023

The phrase “Booker T and Red Bull” takes us to a time when two WWE wrestlers were learning the system through trial, and in this…

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

The Montreal Screwjob: REAL Truth on Who Screwed Bret Hart

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 23, 2026

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

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

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

by Ebony Nash  Feb 13, 2023

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

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!

Bobby “The Brain” Heenan Vs. The Ultimate Warrior - A war of words! [Photo: June 25th, 1988]

Bobby Heenan and Ultimate Warrior – A War of Words!

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

Not everyone in the wrestling industry gets along. Take, for instance, the not oft-discussed hatred between Bobby Heenan and Ultimate Warrior.

NWA and Nick Aldis – Rising Back to Prominence

by Mason Epeneter  Nov 7, 2019

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

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…

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.

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 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!

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!

Paramedics tend to Triple H after his injury took place.

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

by Braeden Farrell  Nov 7, 2024

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

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.

The original, calculated betrayal by Vince McMahon: How he and The Fabulous Moolah conspired to double-cross Wendi Richter in 1985.

Vince McMahon’s First Screwjob: Wendi Richter’s Fall

by JP Zarka  Oct 2, 2024

Before the Montreal Screwjob, Vince McMahon orchestrated a 1985 betrayal of Wendi Richter by The Fabulous Moolah, which changed WWE history.

Championship Belt Maker Dave Millican Shares His Pieces of History

Dave Millican: Tales From a Premier Championship Belt Maker

by Bobby Mathews  Jan 18, 2023

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

The “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…

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

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

by JP Zarka  Feb 16, 2023

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

Lanny Poffo shares why he appreciates Vince McMahon for what he had done for a lot of future endeavored workers back in 1990.

Vince McMahon Saves the Day for Fired Wrestlers

by Lanny Poffo  May 27, 2021

How my old boss Vince McMahon once saved the day for a lot of workers who had been wished luck on their future endeavors.

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!

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

Metal Maniac: The Wrestling Story They Tried to Silence

by Javier Ojst  Feb 4, 2025

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

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!

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

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

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jul 4, 2023

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

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…

"Creative" sometimes second-guesses themselves, even minutes before a match! Here are ten times WWE changed finishes at the last second.

10 Times WWE Changed Finishes at the Last Second

by Ethan Absler  Jan 10, 2025

“Creative” sometimes second-guesses themselves, even minutes before a match! Here are ten times WWE changed finishes at the last second.

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

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

by Archie Pain  Mar 16, 2025

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

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.

Sting Recalls the Scary Moment He Almost Died in WCW

Sting Recalls the Scary Moment He Almost Died in WCW

by JP Zarka  Jan 7, 2025

As Sting stepped off the edge of the platform suspended 140 feet above for the very first time, he quickly realized something was wrong…

The Undertaker was the longest-tenured WWE wrestler of all time. But what do his peers have to say about him?

Undertaker: 18 Stories Showing the Kind of Man He Is

by Matt Pender  Oct 17, 2024

The Undertaker was the longest-tenured WWE wrestler of all time. But what do his peers have to say about him?

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.

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.

The Undertaker walking through an arena of fans amid rumors that Eric Bischoff was trying to snag him to the WCW

Eric Bischoff – How He Almost Signed A Crucial WWE Figure

by James Klonowski  Jul 21, 2021

We sift through each of the lingering rumors about Eric Bischoff potentially signing marquee talent from WWE to WCW. Was it Undertaker?

From Stunning to Stone Cold: Steve Austin over the years.

How Steve Austin Became Stone Cold

by JP Zarka  Feb 13, 2023

Things didn’t go well for Steve Austin as “The Ringmaster” in the WWF. It wasn’t long until a stone-cold cup of tea changed his life…

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…

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

19th Century Wrestling: 30 Untold Facts Revealed!

by Ruslan C. Pashayev  Oct 28, 2024

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

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.

Owen Hart Talks About His Career

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

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

“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!

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…

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!

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.

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

Ron Simmons: Untold Tale Behind Becoming WCW Champion

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 25, 2023

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

Bobby Heenan and Nick Bockwinkel Incident in Chicago

Bobby Heenan and Nick Bockwinkel Incident in Chicago

by JP Zarka  May 4, 2026

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

"The 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.

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?

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.

Photographer Recalls the Tragic Night Owen Hart Died

by JP Zarka  Jan 23, 2023

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

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.

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!

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…

4 Rebels Who Revolutionized Professional Wrestling

4 Rebels Who Revolutionized Professional Wrestling

by Theo Tonća  Aug 9, 2021

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

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

Growing Up The Daughter of a Wrestling Heel

by Javier Ojst  May 9, 2023

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

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!

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!

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!

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…

"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.

The feud between Gail Kim and Awesome Kong in 2007 and 2008 set a new standard not only for women's wrestling but for professional wrestling as a whole.

Gail Kim and Awesome Kong Feud: Redefining Women’s Wrestling

by Javier Ojst  Dec 27, 2023

The feud between Gail Kim and Awesome Kong in 2007 and 2008 set a new standard not only for women’s wrestling but for professional wrestling…

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.

Samoa Joe vs. Kurt Angle in an MMA-style match at Lockdown 2008.

Kurt Angle and Samoa Joe: Untold Secret Behind TNA MMA Match

by Ian Aldous  Jan 18, 2024

Kurt Angle and Samoa Joe had a fierce rivalry during their time in TNA. Discover the secret story behind their unique M

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.

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

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

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 10, 2023

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

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

Gino Hernandez – His Tragic Death and The Mystery That Remains

by Javier Ojst  Mar 1, 2023

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

DDP - How Diamond Dallas Page Went Against All Odds

DDP – How Diamond Dallas Page Went Against All Odds

by Ian Aldous  Aug 30, 2022

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

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

Von Erichs and Fabulous Freebirds: Secret Tale Behind Their Feud

by Matt Pender  Mar 9, 2023

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

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.

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

Secret Impact of Mortal Kombat on Pro Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  Jan 25, 2023

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

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!

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!

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

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

by Benny J. Scala  Mar 19, 2023

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

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

The WWE Controversy Seldom Talked About From 1993

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Mar 19, 2025

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

Most of us know of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's blockbusters, Roddy Piper in John Carpenter's They Live, and Dave Bautista's recurring role as Drax in the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise. However, plenty of other wrestler movie appearances often fall under the radar. Here is our selection of wrestler movie appearances you may have missed!

Wrestler Movie Appearances You May Have Missed!

by Javier Ojst  Jul 5, 2023

It’s not surprising that many wrestlers have made the jump to the movie screen. Here are wrestler movie appearances you may have missed!

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…

Gargano and Ciampa - Quintessential Feud of the Modern Era

Gargano and Ciampa – Quintessential Feud of the Modern Era

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Nov 14, 2023

The feud between Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa is a journey of friendship, betrayal, and ghosts that continue to linger in the background.

The 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!

"Nature Boy" Ric Flair over the years.

A Surprising Not Often Seen Side of Ric Flair – 13 Notorious Tales

by Matt Pender  May 24, 2023

These tales reveal a surprising perspective on Ric Flair – the limousine-riding, jet-flying, kiss-stealing, wheelin’ dealin’ son of a gun!

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.

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

by Evan Ginzburg  Feb 1, 2024

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

From 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!

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

Sabu Is Gone, But His Pain-Filled Legacy Remains

by Javier Ojst  May 15, 2025

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

"The 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.

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…

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!

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…

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.

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

Pat Roach: From British Wrestling Champion to Hollywood Legend

by Tim Buckler  Nov 17, 2025

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

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!

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.

Vince McMahon and Kurt Angle (pictured from a March 28th, 2002 SmackDown taping) had a scuffle at 38,000 feet. When Undertaker woke up during the melee, he reacted accordingly!

Kurt Angle, Vince McMahon, and their Brutal Fight on a Flight!

by Christopher King  Mar 6, 2023

Kurt Angle and Vince McMahon had a legendary scuffle on a flight back from London. A sleeping Undertaker awoke and acted accordingly!

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.

From his prime in the 1970s as a horned Viking warrior (left), to managing international stars like the Road Warriors during WWC’s golden era in 1985 (center), to his current role as an elder statesman preserving El Salvador’s wrestling legacy through his grandson’s Espiritu Pro Wrestling Dojo (right), El Vikingo (Salvador Pérez) has left an indelible mark on five decades of Central American wrestling history.

El Vikingo: How Struggle Forged El Salvador’s Top Wrestling Star

by Javier Ojst  Aug 13, 2025

El Vikingo Salvador Pérez survived brutal concrete training, civil war, and jealous rivals to become El Salvador’s greatest wrestling export.

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

Hulk Hogan versus Marvel Comics | The Fight for His Name

by Braeden Farrell  Jan 10, 2023

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

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!

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.

On camera, Curt Hennig was arrogant, and he backed up his Mr. Perfect persona brilliantly. However, outside of the ring, it was a different story. Here is the story of an extraordinary life with an unfortunate end.

Mr. Perfect Curt Hennig – A Great Life with an Unfortunate End

by JP Zarka  Sep 10, 2025

Curt Hennig was the embodiment of perfection. Take a deep-dive into the life of Mr. Perfect including stories shared for the very first time!

PLANE RIDE FROM HELL! The Exclusive WWE Inside Story

PLANE RIDE FROM HELL! The Exclusive WWE Inside Story

by Matt Pender  Jan 10, 2023

Put your seat upright, fasten your seatbelt – there may be some turbulence along the way. This is the story of WWE’s Plane Ride From…

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…

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!

Darren Drozdov aka Droz in 1999 and 2014.

Droz and D’Lo Brown: How A Disastrous Moment Brought Strength

by Joseph Finnegan  Jul 1, 2023

Droz and D’Lo Brown open up about the botch that left Droz paralyzed and how forgiveness and strength brought them close in the aftermath.

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!

Legends of El Salvador Wrestling: Mr. Flama, Bucanero, Sordo Mudo Cruz, Diablo Rojo, El Satánico, and Tulipan Negro.

El Salvador Wrestling – Stories of Grit, Near-Death, and Triumph

by Javier Ojst  Feb 26, 2024

Although these El Salvador wrestling legends aren’t known to all, these stories of grit, triumphs, and even near-death are worthy of any fan.

ECW Champion, Vince McMahon.

WWE ECW Relaunch: Where Did It All Go Wrong?

by Ian Aldous  May 22, 2023

It all started so well. ECW was brought back to life in WWE, though not as fans endearingly remembered it.

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.

Dustin Rhodes is proving to the world (and himself) that he's still got it.

Dustin Rhodes – Proving to the World (and Himself) That He’s Still Got It

by JP Zarka  Jul 7, 2022

At age 50, Dustin Rhodes pulled off the greatest match of his career. Along the way, he rediscovered his love of wrestling.

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

Dynamite Kid – Examining His Life and Troubled Legacy

by Mason Epeneter  Jan 10, 2023

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

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!

Kurt Angle with the Angle Lock applied to Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 21, April 3rd, 2005.

Kurt Angle and Shawn Michaels Embarrassing First Encounter

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Aug 30, 2021

“Oh my god, this kid’s an idiot…” Kurt Angle tells the story of his embarrassing first encounter with Shawn Michaels in 2002.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

Ox Baker – The Endearing Heel Who Loved To Hurt People

by Javier Ojst  Mar 7, 2023

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

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.

Woooooo! Becoming Ric Flair documentary on Peacock chronicles one of the most charismatic celebrities ever to walk this Earth. And from the orphanage to superstardom to a near-death ordeal, Flair's experienced it all. But how does this documentary fare in the telling of his prolific and controversial story?

Woooooo! Becoming Ric Flair Documentary: An Honest Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Apr 17, 2023

How does the Woooooo! Becoming Ric Flair documentary on Peacock fare in the telling of Flair’s prolific and controversial story?

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

Lanny Poffo’s Dark Side of the Ring Confession

by Lanny Poffo  May 7, 2025

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

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!

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.

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

Chris Jericho and Fandango – The Truth Behind WrestleMania Loss

by James Klonowski  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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!

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

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

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

Betrayal, disloyalty, and mob tactics ran rampant between Ann Gunkel and the NWA with their Battle for Atlanta!

Ann Gunkel and the NWA’s Heated Battle for Atlanta

by Javier Ojst  Jul 14, 2023

Betrayal, disloyalty, and mob tactics ran rampant between Ann Gunkel and the NWA with their Battle for Atlanta!

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.

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.

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!

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.

Real Pro Wrestling Stories with Jim Cornette and Brandon Easton

Real Pro Wrestling Stories with Jim Cornette and Brandon Easton

by Bobby Mathews  Jul 7, 2022

“Before the interview, disaster struck!” Behind the curtain with Real Pro Wrestling Stories writers Jim Cornette and Brandon Easton.

These 18 insane wrestling heels defined hardcore wrestling, inspired the hatred of millions of fans, and motivated fans to buy tickets!

18 Wrestling Heel Pioneers Who Insanely Freaked Out Fans!

by Javier Ojst  Oct 20, 2023

These 18 insane wrestling heels defined hardcore wrestling, inspired the hatred of millions of fans, and motivated fans to buy tickets!

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…

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.

Fred Ottman opens up about his botched The Shockmaster debut.

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

by Javier Ojst  Apr 12, 2024

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

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…

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.

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…

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!

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

The Super-Finisher: 11 Dangerous Wrestling Finishing Moves!

by Logan Medenica  Mar 8, 2023

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

2 Plane Crash Tragedies that Changed Wrestling Forever

2 Plane Crash Tragedies that Changed Wrestling Forever

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Feb 20, 2026

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

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.

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.

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…

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…

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…

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.

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

Sean Waltman – The Injury That Almost Derailed His Career

by JP Zarka  Jan 10, 2023

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

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.

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

Unveil the Paranormal: 5 WWE Supernatural Gimmicks Exposed

by Aaron Young  Jul 10, 2023

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

The 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…

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

18 Wrestling Championship Belts That Shine in Modern Era

by Kevin Tanza  Jul 23, 2025

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

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.

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.

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!

Bob Evans Shoveling out some Brutal Honesty on Ring of Honor

by Bobby Mathews  Feb 7, 2026

Ring of Honor’s Bob Evans shares his wisdom: “Wherever you go in this business, I want you to be the best that you can be…

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

Surprising Story Behind TV Debut of The Road Warriors

by Ron Matejko  May 23, 2025

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

Goldberg and Kevin Nash - The Night The Streak Died

Why Goldberg’s Streak Ended: The Secret Reason Revealed

by Joseph Finnegan  Sep 13, 2024

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

The 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.

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.

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.

Hulk Hogan and Shawn Michaels square off at SummerSlam 2005.

Hulk Hogan and Shawn Michaels: The SummerSlam Misfire

by Braeden Farrell  Aug 16, 2024

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

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

Wrestling’s Gay History and Optimistic Future

by Christa Pagliei  May 7, 2025

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

Kurt Von Hess - one of the last ethnic heels from the territory days of wrestling. For him and his family, life was anything but ordinary.

Kurt Von Hess – Lifestyle of an Old-School Ethnic Heel

by Benny J. Scala  Jan 18, 2023

Kurt Von Hess was one of the last ethnic heels of the territory days. For him and his family, life was anything but ordinary!

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.

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…

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.

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

Dusty Rhodes A&E Biography: An Honest Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Jun 3, 2023

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

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.

Andre the Giant - 16 Unforgettable Tales Told By His Friends

Andre the Giant – 16 Unforgettable Tales Told By His Friends

by Matt Pender  Feb 7, 2023

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

From Hulk Hogan to a particular tag team from Scotland, learn about the unexpected tie that binds Highlander with professional wrestling!

Immortals and Suplexes: 5 Hidden Highlander and Wrestling Connections

by Tim Buckler  Oct 6, 2023

From Hulk Hogan to a particular tag team from Scotland, learn about five unexpected ties that bind Highlander with professional wrestling!

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

Booker T and his Bitter Departure from WWE in 2007

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

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

The 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…

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!

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.

“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.

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.

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…

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.

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.

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 Rock lays the smackdown on Goldberg at WWE Backlash 2003.

Goldberg’s Rocky WWE Debut: A Year of Mistakes

by Si Powell  Oct 7, 2024

Goldberg’s first WWE run was far from legendary, marked by missteps and missed opportunities that nearly derailed his career.

Triple H: Why Owen Hart Was Never World Heavyweight Champion

Triple H: Why Owen Hart Was Never World Heavyweight Champion

by Pro Wrestling Stories  Jan 10, 2023

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

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!

What happens when wrestling champions cannot defend their titles? These are the rare occasions titleholders had their belts put on the line and defended by other people!

10 Times Wrestlers Defended Another Competitor’s Title

by Griffin Kaye  Sep 20, 2023

What happens when champions can’t defend their titles? Here are the rare times titleholders had their belts defended by other wrestlers!

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

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

by Griffin Kaye  May 25, 2023

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

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.

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!

Batman | 7 Times The Dark Knight Influenced Professional Wrestling

Batman | 7 Times The Dark Knight Influenced Wrestling

by Tim Buckler  Aug 11, 2021

There have been many nods to Batman from inside the squared circle. Some are subtle, some are not, while some are just straight-up rip-offs!

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.

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.

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

John Morrison | His Up and Down First Run in WWE

by Si Powell  Aug 11, 2021

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

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…

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.

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

by Christopher King  Dec 29, 2020

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

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

Angelo Mosca and Joe Kapp Fight: Surprising Details

by Javier Ojst  Apr 28, 2025

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

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.

From the devastating impact of a Shooting Star Press gone wrong to the chilling moment a spear in mid-air ended in unconsciousness, explore thirteen harrowing instances pro wrestlers were legitimately knocked out during a match!

13 Times a Wrestler Got Legit Knocked Out During a Match

by Kevin Tanza  Mar 11, 2024

Explore 13 harrowing times pro wrestlers faced the stark reality of their sport’s dangers and were legitimately knocked out during a match!

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

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

by Benny J. Scala  Nov 12, 2024

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

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.

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!

When It Was Real by Nikita Breznikov, with Scott Teal

When It Was Real by Nikita Breznikov, with Scott Teal | Book Review

by Evan Ginzburg  Jan 10, 2023

Pro Wrestling Stories senior writer Evan Ginzburg reviews the book When It Was Real by Nikita Breznikov, with Scott Teal.

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

Stan Hansen and the AWA Championship Belt Scandal

by Javier Ojst  Nov 23, 2023

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

"The Golden Greek" John Tolos over the years.

John Tolos: Secret History on the Golden Greek

by Evan Ginzburg  Jul 19, 2023

‘How do you spell wrestling? T-O-L-O-S!’ The story of The Golden Greek, John Tolos, in his own words and from the people who knew him…

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)!

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

The Ultimate Warrior and The Story of His Final Match

by Ian Aldous  Jan 10, 2023

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

"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.

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