Author: Today in Pro Wrestling History: On March 5th, 1976, Danny Hodge was forced to relinquish the NWA World Junior Heavyweight title and retire from professional wrestling due to a severe auto accident that broke his neck. Hodge had recently begun another championship reign, underscoring his dominance in the division. His professional achievements followed an unparalleled amateur wrestling career, where he won the NCAA 177-pound title for three consecutive years (1955–1957).
Today in Pro Wrestling History: March 15th – Danny Hodge Is Forced To Retire
The NCAA’s annual award for the best amateur wrestler, The Dan Hodge Award, is named in his honor. Renowned for his exceptional athleticism and strength, Hodge could crush apples and bend pliers with his bare hands. Enshrined in The Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2007, Hodge now chairs the Oklahoma Professional Boxing & Wrestling Commission.
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