Author: Today in Pro Wrestling History: On January 9, 1959, a significant moment in professional wrestling history unfolded as Pat O’Connor triumphed over Dick Hutton to capture the NWA World Heavyweight Championship.
Today In Pro Wrestling History (Jan 9): O’Connor Wins the Gold in the Gateway City
Pat O’Connor’s impressive 903-day reign as the NWA World Heavyweight Champion is a notable chapter in the rich history of professional wrestling. His reign with the prestigious “Ten Pounds of Gold” concluded on June 30, 1961, when he passed the title to Buddy Rogers.
O’Connor’s reign is the eighth-longest in the history of the NWA Worlds Heavyweight Championship. The longest reign belongs to Lou Thesz, with his first reign lasting a staggering 2,300 days. Other notable long reigns include those of Dory Funk Jr., Dan Severn, Gene Kiniski, and Harley Race. Each of these champions, like O’Connor, contributed significantly to the prestige and legacy of the NWA World Title.
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