BOB BACKLUND: Secret Story of Humble Beginnings

From being homeless and sleeping in his car, eating tuna from a can, and having to defeat up to nine fans from the crowd before the matches each night to keep his spot on the card, Bob Backlund faced harsh challenges at the start of his career. 

When you talk about wrestling champions with actual wrestling skills, look no further than Backlund. Known to work almost any kind of match while making his opponents look like a million bucks in the process.

RODDY PIPER:  "Bob Backlund was a true gentleman and a champion in every sense of the word. He was the epitome of what a champion should be. He was and is a credit to our business. Most of all, though, you know, Bobby has a heart of gold."

Harley Race also had only praise for Backlund.  HARLEY RACE: "Let me tell you this about Bobby- when I went into the Garden to wrestle him, I went out to the ring first, and when he came through the curtain, I don’t think I’ve ever heard a crowd pop louder for anyone."

Bob Backlund kept his nose clean and stayed out of trouble. However, you'd be smart not to take his kindness as a weakness.  (A few found out the hard way)!

Swipe up to read the shocking story in full!

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