Today in Pro Wrestling History:ย On April 21st, 1980, after being awarded the IC belt in a ‘phantom tournament’, champion Pat Patterson’s inaugural reign ends at the hands of The World’s Strongest Man, Ken Patera.
Today in Pro Wrestling History: (April 21) – Patera Wins the Intercontinental Title
The belt had been commissioned on September 1st, 1979, to replace the short-lived WWF North American championship. In storyline, the North American champion Patterson had defeated the South American titleholder to form the Intercontinental crown.
In reality, Patterson will go down as the first WWF Intercontinental champion in the company’s history… without actually ‘winning’ the belt.
Patera’s reign would last for 237 days, before being dethroned by Pedro Morales.

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"Evan Ginzburgโs stories are a love letter to wrestling, filled with heart, humor, and history. A must-read for any true fan." โ Keith Elliot Greenberg
Wrestling Rings, Blackboards, and Movie Setsย is the latest book from Pro Wrestling Stories Senior Editor Evan Ginzburg. 100 unforgettable storiesโfrom sharing a flight on 9/11 with a WWE Hall of Famer to untold moments in wrestling history. A page-turner for fans of the ring and beyond. Grab your copy today! For signed editions, click here.
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