Wrestling nicknames can define a wrestler’s career, giving fans insight into their character. But what happens when multiple stars share the same name? Discover eleven wrestling nicknames shared by others—proving that in the squared circle, no name is safe!
1. The Rock: Dwayne Johnson vs. Don Muraco
The nickname “The Rock” has been associated with multiple wrestlers throughout professional wrestling history, most notably Dwayne Johnson and Don Muraco.
Dwayne Johnson first entered the WWE (then WWF) in 1996 under the name Rocky Maivia. After recovering from a knee injury sustained in a match against Mankind, Johnson returned to the ring in August 1997. At this point, he began referring to himself in the third person as “The Rock,” refusing to acknowledge his previous moniker. This transformation marked the beginning of Johnson’s meteoric rise to becoming one of the most recognizable figures in entertainment.
However, Johnson was not the first to use “The Rock” as a wrestling nickname. In the 1960s, Ole Anderson went by Alan “The Rock” Rogowski and the Ultimate Warrior briefly used the name “Rock” in the UWF. Most notably, Don Muraco adopted the nickname in 1986.
Muraco, previously known as “Magnificent Muraco” in the early to mid-1980s while managed by Mr. Fuji, transitioned to a fan-favorite role after helping “Superstar” Billy Graham during a 3-on-1 attack. Following this incident, Muraco was rebranded as Don “The Rock” Muraco, complete with a new tie-dye attire.
As “The Rock,” Muraco achieved several notable accomplishments. He participated in the main event of the 1987 Survivor Series, performed well in the inaugural Royal Rumble, and competed in the WWF Championship tournament at WrestleMania 4. Muraco has since been inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, though his use of “The Rock” nickname has been largely overshadowed by Dwayne Johnson’s iconic portrayal.
While both wrestlers have left significant marks on the industry, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s global success in wrestling and Hollywood has made him the most widely recognized bearer of the nickname.
2. The Nature Boy: Ric Flair vs. Buddy Rogers vs. Buddy Landel vs. Roger Kirby vs. Scoot Andrews
The moniker “The Nature Boy” has been associated with several notable wrestlers throughout professional wrestling history, each contributing to the legacy of this iconic persona.
Buddy Rogers, the first WWWF Champion, originally established the gimmick. Known for his bleach-blonde hair, figure-4 leglock, and signature strut, Rogers set the standard for future “Nature Boys.” In the late ’70s, as Rogers was concluding his in-ring career, he passed the torch to Ric Flair.
Flair adopted many of Rogers’ character traits and elevated the “Nature Boy” persona to unprecedented heights, becoming one of wrestling’s most recognizable and influential figures. He incorporated the figure-4 leglock, bleach-blonde hair, and signature strut into his own unique style.
Buddy Landel also utilized the “Nature Boy” nickname. He competed in numerous promotions throughout the ’80s and ’90s, including Mid-South, Mid-Atlantic, UWF, AWA, AJPW, WCW, USWA, SMW, and WWF.
Although Landel held the Smoky Mountain World Heavyweight Championship and was considered for an NWA title shot, Landel struggled to reach his full potential due to personal challenges.
Roger Kirby, while less renowned, also used the “Nature Boy” moniker during his career in the 1960s and 1970s. Kirby made a name for himself in various territories across the United States, contributing to the enduring legacy of the “Nature Boy” character.
In a unique interpretation of the gimmick, Scoot Andrews adopted the persona of “The Black Nature Boy” in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Andrews combined the flashy style and charisma associated with the “Nature Boy” gimmick with his own background and in-ring abilities.
3. Hacksaw: Jim Duggan vs. Butch Reed
The “Hacksaw” nickname became a pivotal element in Mid-South Wrestling during the early 1980s, primarily associated with two prominent wrestlers: Jim Duggan and Butch Reed.
Butch Reed entered the Mid-South scene as a face (good guy) tag team partner of the territory’s megastar, Junkyard Dog. Upon his debut, Reed adopted the “Hacksaw” moniker, which immediately sparked a rivalry with Jim Duggan, who was already using the same nickname.
At this time, Duggan was aligned with the villainous Rat Pack faction, which included Matt Borne (later known as “Doink the Clown”) and Ted DiBiase. The ensuing feud over the “Hacksaw” nickname led to a significant shift in character alignments. Duggan transitioned from a heel (bad guy) to a face, while Reed made the opposite turn, becoming a heel.
The rivalry between Duggan and Reed was intense and drew significant attention in the Mid-South territory. Their feud extended beyond the nickname dispute, evolving into one of the most heated rivalries during a particularly brutal era in wrestling. The two “Hacksaws” engaged in numerous high-profile matches, with fans eagerly following the progression of their conflict.
When both wrestlers later joined the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE), their career paths diverged. Jim Duggan retained the “Hacksaw” nickname, which became an integral part of his patriotic gimmick. Butch Reed, on the other hand, was repackaged as “The Natural,” a nickname that Dustin Rhodes would later use.
Despite their WWF rebranding, both Duggan and Reed continued to use the “Hacksaw” nickname in various capacities throughout their careers, cementing the moniker’s place in professional wrestling lore.
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4. Excellence of Execution: Bret Hart vs. Bob Orton Jr.
The nickname “Excellence of Execution” has been associated with two notable wrestlers in professional wrestling history: Bob Orton Jr. and Bret Hart.
Bob Orton Jr., known as “Cowboy” Bob, also the father of Randy Orton, was the first to receive this prestigious nickname. A technically proficient wrestler, Orton earned the title from renowned commentator Gorilla Monsoon during the mid-1980s Rock ‘n’ Wrestling boom.
Orton’s contributions to the sport included popularizing the superplex, a move that showcased his technical prowess and innovative spirit. His traditional ’80s wrestling style, combined with his ability to execute complex maneuvers, likely influenced Monsoon’s decision to bestow this nickname upon him.
However, it was Bret Hart who would later become synonymous with the “Excellence of Execution” moniker. Hart adopted this nickname alongside other well-known monikers such as “The Hitman,” “The Pink and Black Attack,” and “The Best There Is, The Best There Was and The Best There Ever Will Be.”
Many argue that the “Excellence of Execution” nickname was particularly fitting for Hart. His in-ring style was deeply rooted in technical proficiency and psychology, making him one of the most respected and admired wrestlers of his era. Hart’s ability to execute moves with precision and tell compelling stories in the ring aligned perfectly with the implications of this prestigious title.
The transition of this nickname from Orton to Hart reflects the evolution of wrestling styles and the changing landscape of professional wrestling during this period. While both men were highly skilled technicians, Hart’s rise to prominence and his enduring legacy in the sport cemented his association with the “Excellence of Execution” moniker in the minds of many wrestling fans.
5. Bruiser: Bruiser Brody vs. Dick the Bruiser
Bruiser Brody, born Frank Donald Goodish, stands as an iconic figure in professional wrestling. Known for his intense brawling style, Brody’s appearance was characterized by his forehead scars, wild hair, and unkempt beard. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he competed in numerous wrestling promotions, primarily under the Brody name, though he occasionally adopted other monikers.
The “Bruiser” nickname was also famously associated with Dick Afflis, known professionally as Dick the Bruiser.
Afflis, born William Fritz Afflis Jr., transitioned from a career in the NFL with the Green Bay Packers to professional wrestling. He earned the moniker “The World’s Most Dangerous Wrestler” and became a significant figure in the industry as both a performer and the owner-promoter of the World Wrestling Association (WWA), a wrestling territory based in Indianapolis.
Dick the Bruiser’s career was notable for its controversial and innovative aspects. He pioneered practices such as delivering heel promos and incorporating weapons into matches, which were considered groundbreaking at the time. His aggressive style and confrontational demeanor occasionally led to real-life incidents, including a notable altercation at Madison Square Garden in 1957 that resulted in a riot and his subsequent lifetime ban from wrestling in New York.
Out of respect for Dick the Bruiser and to avoid confusion, Brody opted to change his ring name in certain territories.
Bruiser Brody’s influence extends to modern wrestling, inspiring performers like the late Jon Huber, who adopted the ring name Brodie Lee in homage to Brody. Huber, who shared a similar style and appearance with the original Brody, used this name while competing in promotions such as Ring of Honor and All Elite Wrestling until his untimely passing in late 2020.
6. King Kong: King Kong Brody vs. King Kong Mosca vs. King Kong Bundy
In Midwestern wrestling promotions, particularly the American Wrestling Association (AWA), Bruiser Brody adopted the moniker “King Kong Brody.” This name change served a dual purpose: it paid homage to the iconic movie monster while also distinguishing him from Dick the Bruiser.
The use of the “King Kong” nickname in professional wrestling often signified wrestlers of exceptional size and strength, drawing parallels to the fictional giant ape. These performers were typically portrayed as unstoppable forces in the ring.
The “King Kong” nickname has been associated with several prominent wrestlers throughout the history of professional wrestling. One such notable figure was King Kong Bundy, who made a significant impact in Mid-South Wrestling before achieving fame in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF). Standing at 6’4″ and weighing over 450 pounds, Bundy’s imposing presence and devastating “Avalanche” splash made him a formidable opponent in the ring.
Another wrestler who carried the “King Kong” moniker was Angelo Mosca, known professionally as King Kong Mosca. Mosca transitioned to wrestling after a successful career in the Canadian Football League. He quickly rose to prominence in the wrestling world, becoming a star with a villainous persona across North America. Mosca’s nickname evolved from “King Kong” to “Big Nasty” later in his career.
7. Handsome: Harley Race vs. Jimmy Valiant
In the world of professional wrestling, with preening, self-loving, and narcissistic gimmicks abound, it’s not surprising that multiple wrestlers would share the “Handsome” moniker.
Harley Race initially adopted this nickname when he debuted in the American Wrestling Association (AWA) alongside Larry “The Axe” Hennig. The moniker, bestowed upon Race in Japan, suited his cocky heel persona. Race was not above using foreign objects and illegal tactics to secure victories in the ring.
Teaming with Mr. Perfect’s father, Race and Hennig captured the AWA Tag Team Championships on three separate occasions, solidifying their status as a formidable duo.
Before evolving into the conspicuously masked wrestler “Charlie Brown From Outta Town” or the distinctively long-bearded “Boogie Woogie Man,” Jimmy Valiant was known as “Handsome” Jimmy Valiant.
Alongside his “brother” “Luscious” Johnny Valiant, Jimmy found considerable success as part of The Valiant Brothers. The duo made their mark in the 1960s, ’70s, and ’80s, competing in prominent promotions such as the WWWF, NWA’s Continental Wrestling Association, and World Wrestling Association, among others.
Valiant’s popularity extended beyond the wrestling ring. He released a song titled “The Ballad of Handsome Jimmy,” performed by Jimmy Hart and The Gentrys. This track not only served as Valiant’s entrance theme but also became a staple on Memphis radio stations for years, further cementing his status as a personality reaching well beyond the ring.
8. Bam Bam: Bigelow vs. Gordy
“Bam Bam” Bigelow, one of the most athletic big men in wrestling history, made a significant impact across WWF, WCW, and ECW. Despite weighing 400 pounds, Bigelow’s agility was remarkable, allowing him to execute moonsaults and cartwheels with the ease of a cruiserweight.
Bigelow’s credibility as a formidable competitor was evident in every promotion he worked for. His achievements include winning the ECW World Heavyweight Championship, reaching the finals of the 1993 King of the Ring, and main-eventing both the inaugural Survivor Series and WrestleMania 11.
Known as “The Beast From The East,” Bigelow’s distinctive appearance contributed to his intimidating presence. His large flame tattoo across his bald head, missing teeth, and goatee created a rugged look that perfectly embodied his character.
Terry Gordy, another notable wrestler who used the “Bam Bam” moniker, was an integral part of the Fabulous Freebirds. As the group’s powerhouse, Gordy was known for his merciless brawling style. He played a crucial role in igniting the legendary feud with the Von Erich family by slamming a steel cage door on Kerry Von Erich’s head.
Gordy’s success extended beyond the Freebirds. He formed a formidable tag team with “Dr. Death” Steve Williams called the Miracle Violence Connection. As a singles competitor, Gordy achieved notable success, becoming the inaugural UWF Champion and capturing the Smoky Mountain Wrestling World Heavyweight Championship.
The clash of these two “Bam Bams” – Bigelow and Gordy – occurred multiple times in matches billed as the “Battle of The Bam Bams.” Their most famous encounter took place in the ECW Arena in Philadelphia on October 14th, 1995, In this bout, Bigelow emerged victorious after receiving assistance from The Eliminators, followed by his signature diving headbutt.
9. The Living Legend: Bruno Sammartino vs. Larry Zbyszko
Bruno Sammartino was a wrestling god in the ’60s and ’70s, holding the WWWF Championship for eleven years in total.
As an accomplished veteran of the ring, he tried to teach his craft to others in order to aid them with their career. One of these was Larry Zbyszko, who went on to win the WWWF World Tag Team titles under Sammartino’s tutelage alongside Tony Garea.
Sick of being in Bruno’s shadow, Zbyszko convinced the Italian phenomenon into a match by claiming he would retire if he did not get the match.
In Allentown, Pennsylvania, on January 22nd, 1980, Zbyszko committed one of the most famous betrayals in wrestling history, stabbing Sammartino in the back and memorably hitting the former WWWF champ with a chair, leaving him in a pool of crimson red.
Afterward, Zbyszko embarked on a heel run, stealing his former ally’s “The Living Legend” nickname.
The two continued to fight, with their biggest bout being at Shea Stadium on August 9th, 1980, in front of 36,295 people.
Zbyszko’s heat was so great at the time that his vehicles were destroyed, and he was even stabbed in the backside by a fan after a match with Pedro Morales.
Larry Zbyszko would carry on “The Living Legend” persona as an on-screen WCW personality in the ’90s. He was a commentator and sporadic in-ring competitor in this run, being billed with this wrestling nickname to give him more credibility to newer fans.
10. The Crippler: Ray Stevens vs. Chris Benoit
Ray Stevens, renowned as one of the most effective heels in professional wrestling, captivated audiences throughout the 1970s and ’80s. While his legacy may not be as widely discussed today, Stevens was a masterful performer, particularly in tag team matches alongside partners like Nick Bockwinkel and Pat Patterson.
In 1972, during an AWA television broadcast, Stevens faced Doctor X (Dick Beyer, also known as “The Destroyer”) in a pivotal match. To facilitate Beyer’s departure for a tour in Japan as “The Destroyer,” the storyline called for Stevens to “break” Doctor X’s leg. Stevens executed his signature Bombs Away diving knee drop onto Doctor X’s leg, which was entangled in the ropes.
This angle effectively showcased the move’s devastating potential, leading to its kayfabe ban from the company. Following this incident, Stevens transitioned from his “Blond Bomber” persona to “The Crippler.”
Two decades later, at ECW’s November To Remember event in 1994, Chris Benoit faced Sabu in the main event. This match would prove instrumental in shaping Benoit’s career trajectory.
Mere seconds into the bout, a miscalculated backdrop attempt resulted in Sabu landing on his head, causing a neck injury. The incident deeply affected Benoit and disrupted the match, prompting 2 Cold Scorpio to intervene.
In the aftermath, ECW booker Paul E. Dangerously suggested that Benoit adopt “The Crippler” moniker. This decision aimed to enhance Benoit’s heel persona, leading to him being billed as “Crippler” Benoit in ECW and later as “The Canadian Crippler” in WCW.
The nickname, born from an unintentional incident, became one of the most recognizable aspects of Benoit’s wrestling persona throughout his career.
11. The Dragon: Tatsumi Fujinami vs. Ricky Steamboat
While Ricky Steamboat was known as “The Dragon” in North America, Tatsumi Fujinami held the same moniker in Japan. Both wrestlers left indelible marks on professional wrestling history, each embodying “The Dragon” persona in their respective territories.
Drawing inspiration from Japanese mythological folklore, Tatsumi Fujinami debuted in the 1970s and quickly rose to prominence. Throughout his illustrious career, Fujinami captured titles in the WWWF, NJPW, and NWA. As a six-time IWGP World Champion, he was one of the first wrestlers to achieve success in both Japan’s Junior and Heavyweight divisions.
Fujinami’s accolades are numerous and impressive. He won the 1993 G1 Climax, the Super Grade Tag League, and the Karl Gotch Cup, among many other honors. Perhaps his most significant match occurred at SuperBrawl I in 1991, where he lost his NWA World Heavyweight Championship to Ric Flair in a controversial finish. This reign made him the first wrestler to simultaneously hold both the IWGP and NWA World Heavyweight Championships.
Fujinami’s legacy extends beyond his championship victories. He is credited with innovating two iconic wrestling moves: the dragon suplex and the dragon sleeper, both nods to his “Dragon” nickname. In recognition of his contributions to professional wrestling, Fujinami was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2015 and currently serves as an ambassador for WWE.
Ricky Steamboat, on the other hand, adopted “The Dragon” persona when he transitioned from the NWA to WWF in 1985. He traded his black, short tights for a keikogi (martial arts outfit), a headband, and long, white tights. Although billed from Hawaii, Steamboat was given “The Dragon” moniker in reference to his mother’s Japanese-American heritage.
Steamboat’s popularity soared during the WWF’s Golden Era in the mid-to-late 1980s. His most memorable moment came at WrestleMania III, where he defeated Randy Savage for the Intercontinental Championship in front of nearly 93,000 fans. This match is widely regarded as one of the greatest in WWE history and earned Match of the Year honors from both Pro Wrestling Illustrated and the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.
Throughout his career, Steamboat continued to use “The Dragon” nickname across various promotions, including his brief WWF return in 1991, his NWA run in 1989, and his tenure in WCW in the early-to-mid 1990s. Even post-retirement, Steamboat carried the moniker during appearances with WWE, TNA, and Ring of Honor.
Both Steamboat and Fujinami have left lasting legacies in professional wrestling. Steamboat, inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2009, is widely regarded as one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time. His technical prowess, charisma, and memorable feuds with the likes of Ric Flair have cemented his place in wrestling history.
While Fujinami may not be as well-known to Western audiences, his impact on Japanese professional wrestling is immeasurable. His innovative moves and championship accomplishments have influenced generations of wrestlers in Japan and beyond.
The “Dragon” moniker, embodied by both Ricky Steamboat and Tatsumi Fujinami, represents a legacy of excellence, innovation, and cultural bridging in the world of professional wrestling.
The Legacy of Shared Wrestling Nicknames
Wrestling nicknames are more than just catchy phrases; they carry history, personality, and prestige. While some names become synonymous with one individual, many have been shared by multiple legends, each leaving their own mark on the industry.
Whether it’s "The Rock" or "The Nature Boy," these monikers live on, representing the legacy of the wrestlers who made them famous.
In the end, a nickname may be shared, but the legacies created by these icons are truly one of a kind.
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