Author: Today in Pro Wrestling History: A significant moment in wrestling history occurred when Antonio Inoki and New Japan Wrestling organized what was billed as the first professional wrestling event in the Soviet Union.
Today In Pro Wrestling History (Dec 31): Putting an Armbar on The Iron Curtain
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During a time when the Cold War was nearing its end, and with the US-USSR relations still tense, this event was groundbreaking. The Soviet Union, with its strict communist regime, had never witnessed a spectacle like this.
The event featured nine matches with wrestlers from Japan, the USSR, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Notable American wrestlers participating included “The Raging Bull” Manny Fernandez, Bam Bam Bigelow, and Olympian Brad Rheigans.
In less than two years following this historic event, the Soviet Union collapsed, paving the way for modern-day Russia.
The fall of communism opened doors for professional wrestling in Russia, although the presence remains limited to a few independent companies. WWE eventually hosted house shows in Russia in 2012 and 2013.
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"Evan Ginzburg’s stories are a love letter to wrestling, filled with heart, humor, and history. A must-read for any true fan." — Keith Elliot Greenberg
Wrestling Rings, Blackboards, and Movie Sets is the latest book from Pro Wrestling Stories Senior Editor Evan Ginzburg. 100 unforgettable stories—from 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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