Ron Mullinax's Blog, page 2
May 3, 2018
Best Wrestling Tag Teams
In their own inimitable style, wrestling tag teams entertained and wowed audiences all around the world. Considered an integral element of pro wrestling, these teams and their versatile members have given the fans and wrestling enthusiasts plenty of moments to talk about, enjoy, and cherish. Yet picking the all-time greats is never an easy task. Still, this is an attempt to list the top three tag team wrestling names.
The Fabulous Freebirds
This three-member tag team ushered a new era in sports entertainment during the 1980s. From their string of successes in Georgia (including the NWA National Tag Team Titles in Georgia Championship Wrestling) to their rivalry with the Von Erich’s and using “Badstreet USA” as their entrance theme, this tag team would be remembered for its members’ flashy attire, big hair, and rock ’n’ roll attitude. No wonder this team is included among this list of the best wrestling tag team names.
The Von Erichs
There’s no way a list of all-time great wrestling tag teams can exclude this family. While this tag team family spans multiple generations, it was the pairing of Kevin and Kerry Von Erich that’s often credited for bringing this clan of wrestlers into prominence. During the 1980s, Kerry was a leading name among NWA talents. He was a five-time winner of the NWA American Heavyweight Championship and held numerous titles, which included holding on to the Tag Team Champions title over six times with various partners. With Fritz Von Erich, the patriarch, Kevin and the other family members created the Six-Man Tag Team Division, which was a huge accomplishment in the realm of professional wrestling.
The Dudley Boyz
Winning 23 worldwide championships—from WWE to TNA, IWGP, ECW—the Dudley Boyz is undeniably one of the most revered tag team names for wrestling. With incredible skills and a resume that would spark envy among their peers, this tag team of brothers, Ray and Devon (who wrestled under the names of Bubba Ray/Buh Buh Ray Dudley and D-Von Dudley and were joined by other members of the Dudley family from time to time), triggered a total structural reenvision of what a wrestling match could be. Known for taking competition to the extreme, the Dudleys would surely be remembered by many generations to come.
Though such a short list won’t do justice to the sport’s great names, these three teams are still worth noting, especially when you consider their contribution to the sport.
Which other tag teams do you think should make it to the list of all-time greats? Feel free to share them below in the comments section. You can also reach me through other channels like Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. Don’t forget to check my book Fritz Von Erich: Master of the Iron Claw to learn more about wrestling.
References
Winkie, Luke. 2016. “A definitive ranking of the top 50 wrestling tag teams of all time.” Sports Illustrated, September 28. Accessed January 27, 2018. https://www.si.com/extra-mustard/2016/10/05/top-50-tag-teams-of-all-time.
Ahmadzai, Harris. 2017. “RANKED: The 28 Greatest Tag Teams in Wrestling History.” New Arena, August 31. Accessed January 27, 2018. http://newarena.com/other-sports/ranked-the-28-greatest-tag-teams-in-wrestling-history/.
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April 26, 2018
The Best Wrestling Movies You Should Watch
Professional wrestling has become one of the most entertaining spectator sports across the globe today and so are the movies made on this subject. Wrestling movies have gained tremendous popularity because of their stunts, cast, plot, quality production, and solid storylines. Most of these movies are memorable or iconic in some way. Here are the top three of the best wrestling movies for all wrestling enthusiasts.
The Wrestler
A 2008 American film that highlights the warts-and-all beautifully with the sheer character study of Randy “The Ram” Robinson, a fictional wrestler. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, this film starred Mickey Rourke, who portrayed the character of Robinson. Some wrestling fans mayn’t consider this film as a sheer wrestling movie as it’s a dramatic piece about a man. But when watching this movie, fans have to understand that The Wrestler is about each and every wrestler and nothing beyond. Brilliantly directed with a superb script and excellent sound editing, this was one of the best wrestling movies that handled the industry with poise, dignity, and heartfelt understanding.
Beyond the Mat
One of best professional wrestling movies, Beyond the Mat was a craft of love undertaken by lifelong wrestling fan and Hollywood screenwriter Barry W. Blaustein. This 1999 movie focuses on the lives of eminent wrestlers outside the squared circle, mainly, Mick Foley, Jake Roberts, and Terry Funk as well as some of the aspiring wrestlers. Blaustein was able to add some personal flavor to this film, putting the viewers in his place behind the camera, instead of forcing them to simply watch the procedures. There may be guts and a lot of blood in the movie, but above all, there is a human heart that is in love with wrestling and perhaps that made this one of the greatest wrestling movies that fans will remember forever.
Reversal
When it comes to quality professional wrestling movies, Reversal has to be there in the list. While the wrestling world is most relatable for those who’re familiar with the sport, the way the movie addresses family issues—especially the coach/son dynamic—touches a chord that appeals to a broader audience. Directed by Jimi Petulla, this 2001 movie highlights the life of a high school wrestler. Starring Danny Mousetis as Leo Leone, this movie depicts the perils associated with the wrestling world perfectly. Coached by his father, Leo is constantly pushed to attain the goal of achieving Pennsylvania state title. This movie portrays the life of a wrestler torn between his dad’s affection and his own wishes.
Do you want to add any other great wrestling movie to this list? Feel free to share that in the comments section below. You can also connect me on other channels like Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. Don’t forget to check my book Fritz Von Erich: Master of the Iron Claw to learn more about wrestling.
References
Quicksilver, Chris. 2013. “5 Essential Wrestling Movies Every Fan Should See.” WhatCulture.com, September 26. Accessed January 27, 2018. http://whatculture.com/film/5-wrestling-movies-every-fan-should-see.
Gandu, Gurvinder Singh. 2014. “The 20 Greatest Wrestling Movies of All Time.” Greenlabel. June 17. Accessed January 27, 2018. http://greenlabel.com/20-greatest-wrestling-movies-of-all-time/.
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April 19, 2018
Wrestling Backstage Stories
You may think you know everything about professional wrestling, but there’re are several wrestling backstage stories that even you don’t know about. The typical backstage wrestling drama starts with heated exchange of words and ends up in physical brawls with no referee and no rules. While these stories are funny, at times they’re despicable as well that the promoters often try hard to conceal them. Unfortunately for them, these stories get leaked rather quickly, even right after they occurred. Here’re three of the craziest among them.
Shane McMahon’s Hit on Bret Hart’s Wife
No wrestling fan would ever think that Shane McMahon’s name would be included in the list of craziest wrestling backstage stories, but here it is. Despite his good reputation, he did experience one particularly sobering encounter. When he was younger, Shane went to a local bar with some wrestlers. After having one too many drinks, he started hitting on a woman who just wouldn’t give him the time of day. He must have pestered her too much because the woman later approached Shane, but this time she was accompanied by her husband—none other than Bret Hart. Shortly thereafter, Shane and Bret ended up in a small fight.
Macho Man Would Lock His Wife
It turns out that this is a pretty well-known fact within the wrestling industry. Macho Man Randy Savage apparently put his wife, Miss Elizabeth, under lock and key to avoid unfortunate incidents. Rumor has it that Randy would lock her up whenever she wasn’t with him to avoid his own violent outbursts whenever people talk to her.
Sheamus and Yoshi Tatsu
Probably one of the pettiest backstage stories is that of Sheamus and Yoshi Tatsu’s. The incident happened in 2009 when Sheamus was using some of Tatsu’s and DiBiase’s belongings without permission. When confronted, Sheamus tried to attack Tatsu but was beaten down instead. He almost cried apparently because of the severe assault.
Do you want to share any other interesting backstage stories of the wrestling world? Let me know in the comments section below. You can also follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. Remember to check my book Fritz Von Erich: Master of Iron Claw.
References
Byrd, Matthew. 2017. “Exposed: 15 Disturbing Backstage Stories From WWE’s Golden Era Revealed.” TheSportster, July 5. Accessed December 31, 2017. https://www.thesportster.com/wrestling/exposed-15-disturbing-backstage-stories-from-wwes-golden-era-revealed/.
Ranker. “The Craziest Stories Of Behind The Scenes WWE Fights.” Accessed December 31, 2017. https://www.ranker.com/list/behind-the-scenes-wwe-fights/ranker-sports.
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April 13, 2018
Life after Wrestling: Retired Wrestlers with Regular Jobs
Many professional wrestlers often become so involved with the ring and famous among their fans that their fans scream for them to do just one more fight. Yet the truth is, professional wrestlers can’t last forever in their field. Check out 5 retired wrestlers who are doing regular jobs now.
Maven
Famed for eliminating The Undertaker in the 2002 Royal Rumble event, Maven is one of the popular retired pro wrestlers, who now works as a bouncer at an NYC sports bar. Though he didn’t last long in WWE as expected by many, he was able to develop a strong fan following.
Mideon
The list of retired WWE wrestlers must mention Mideon. Once the master of screams, he is now cooking up delicacies in the kitchen. He has become popular throughout Tampa for his delectable cuisine, which he serves through his catering company.
Ivory
Whenever fans talk about retired wrestlers, Where are they now? is the next thing that comes into their mind. Ivory, though she had a lucrative career in pro wrestling, bid the ring adieu in 2007. Now, she is the owner of a grooming center and a doggie day care center in Friday Harbor, Washington.
Rico
Another name in the list of retired wrestlers has to be Rico. After leaving professional wrestling in 2004, Rico has become an officer in a Nevada taxi company, after having finished his law enforcement training.
Simon Dean
After ruling the squared circle for a long time, Simon Dean is now well known for his job of helping with finances. He is the branch manager at the Woodforest National Bank in Louisville.
Call to action: There are several other retired pro wrestlers who have become successful in their present careers. Know any of them? Leave a comment below and your thoughts. You can also connect with me on my other channels like Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. Don’t forget to check my new book, Fritz Von Erich: Master of the Iron Claw, as well.
References
Nguyen-Don, Hillary. n.d. “12 Retired WWE Wrestlers Who Now Have Regular Jobs.” Providr. Accessed December 30, 2017. https://www.providr.com/12-retired-wwe-wrestlers-who-found-regular-jobs.
Haverford, Joey. 2015. “Top 15 Wrestlers Who Retired and Have Regular Jobs Now.” TheSportster, July 19. https://www.thesportster.com/wrestling/top-15-wrestlers-who-have-regular-jobs-now/.
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April 5, 2018
All You Need to Know About Wrestling Memorabilia
Pro wrestling is a relatively new sport that has entertained millions of fans across the globe. Diehard fans often tend to immortalize their favorite wrestlers by collecting wrestling memorabilia. With merchandise including garden gnomes and action figures, no two collectibles are alike in the pro wrestling world. Here’s a rundown of four of the most unusual and surprising facts surrounding pro wrestling memorabilia.
#1. The first entrant to this list of wrestling memorabilia facts is from WWE. Nothing demonstrates the multimedia capabilities of WWE better than its subsidiaries. Apart from its ten official subsidiaries, branches of the WWE comprise of WWE Studios, WWE Music Group, and WWE Books, enabling the fans to build a huge collection without buying a single action figure.
#2. Strangely enough, one of the most expensive WWE wrestling memorabilia isn’t a fan favorite or a world champion. It’s Kamala, famed for walking to the squared circle with body paint in various shapes and a tribal mask, including two stars and a crescent moon. The figure released with a star displaying on his belly was once able to fetch a whopping price of $10,000.
#3. Miss Elizabeth was the first woman included in the “Wrestling Superstars” action figure line as the pioneer of the WrestleMania series. Variably manufactured with its skirt color changing from purple to gold and the body alternating from rubber to body, the rarest of the variants are highly expensive in mint condition.
#4. To many wrestling enthusiasts, vintage wrestling memorabilia mean a lot, and this is the one for them. LJN, a video game publisher and toy company, made the first wrestling action figures. In 1984, they came up with figures like “Rowdy” Roddy Piper and Andre the Giant that were on the forefront of the wrestling memorabilia.
Call to action: Do you own any wrestling memorabilia? Feel free to share your collections in the comments section below. We’d love to hear from you. You can check out my book, Fritz Von Erich: Master of the Iron Claw, to know more about pro wrestling. You can also connect with me on my other channels like Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.
References:
Meza, Miguel. 2017. “The 15 Most Expensive WWE Action Figures You Wish You Owned.” TheGamer, September 12. Accessed January 1, 2018. https://www.thegamer.com/expensive-wwe-action-figures-you-wish-you-owned/.
Monbleau, Timothy. 2015. “10 Things You Never Knew about WWE Memorabilia.” Gemr, October 28. Accessed January 1, 2018. https://gemr.com/blog/10-things-you-never-knew-about-wwe-memorabilia/.
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March 22, 2018
Weird facts about wrestling and wrestlers
Like others in the entertainment industry, pro wrestling also has its fair share when it comes to outlining the unusual facts about wrestling. The difference is, some of the facts fans may come across are completely obscure, and they would be extremely difficult to believe, if not backed up by reputable sources. While lots of weird wrestling facts can be found online, this list narrows down only the oddest, weirdest ones.
#1 Since the inception of the WWE, there has been more than 100 World Heavyweight Champions, from Buddy Rogers to Seth Rollins.
#2 This is from the list of WWE wrestling facts. Europe houses one of the most well-known homages to pro wrestling—the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum in upstate Amsterdam. Inductees include Captain Lou Albano and “Killer” Kowalski.
#3 After not appearing in either SmackDown and Raw, despite being advertised, CM Punk has become a writer for Vertigo Comics (DC Imprint) and Marvel Comics.
#4 John Cena is the current record holder for the most wishes granted at the Make-A-Wish Foundation with more than 500 wishes.
#5 The fifth entry in this list of interesting facts about wrestling is The Undertaker appearing in a movie titled Suburban Commando with Hulk Hogan in 1991.
#6 Given that pro wrestlers usually go by their pseudonyms, codenames, and nicknames, the WrestleMania XIX main event was the first between two wrestlers with their real names—Brock Lesnar versus Kurt Angle for the WWE Championship.
#7 The WWE legend “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan was inspired enough by the original Walking Tall movie (a remake of which was made in 2004 starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson) and carried a 2X4 to the ring as a prop.
#8 The final entry on this list of unusual facts about wrestling is sourced from WWE. Kane was the first WWE Champion who wore a mask after he beat Steve Austin.
Do you know any other wrestling fun facts that I’ve missed out? Share it in the comments section below. You can check out my book, Fritz Von Erich: Master of the Iron Claw, for more stories about wrestling. You can reach me at Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads, if you want to discuss pro wrestling further.
References
Fairweather, Purcival. 2015. “15 Lesser-Known Facts about WWE That Every WWE Fan Needs to Know.” Unbelievable Facts, November 1. Accessed January 1, 2018. https://www.unbelievable-facts.com/2015/11/facts-about-wwe.html.
Morrell, Jack. 2016. “30 Surprising WWE Facts You Probably Don’t Know”. What Culture, May 5. Accessed January 1, 2018. http://whatculture.com/wwe/30-surprising-wwe-facts-you-probably-didnt-know.
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March 16, 2018
Wrestling Slogan: Do or Die
Who doesn’t know John Cena? The Rock? Or The Undertaker? They are just three of pro wrestling’s hallowed superstars that even their words stay remarkable until now. Wrestling is a sport that fires up its fans for the revelry and grace inside the ring and for the hyped-up wrestling slogans they throw around which make millions of stocks in the market.
These wrestling sayings by the greatest wrestlers give inspiration and motivation to their viewers. John Cena once said, “A lot of stuff that I say doesn’t even make TV because it gets cut out. So if you’re at the live events you get to hear what I have to say, but if you’re watching on TV, you’re only getting about 50% of it.” This saying makes the viewers realize that not everything they see on television is the whole story.
Let’s take a look back at some famous wrestling quotes by some wrestling superstars. According to some wrestlers, in wrestling, there are no losers but only winners and learners. Dan Gable, an American Olympian wrestler, stated that wrestling is a sport that outlast any other sport. It teaches them self-control and pride because they cannot win without their pride. As what Rulon Gardner, an American Greco-Roman wrestler said, “Every day I turned a ‘you can’t’ into a ‘you can.’”
Wrestling helps build confidence and strength of a person. Standing on the mat is just the wrestler itself. Once they play the game, according to Gary Dierks—a wrestling coach—the things that matters in wrestling are “teeth and testicles. Just keep fighting and stop complaining.”
So here are other motivational wrestling quotes to inspire people to do their best to win the game. Carl Albert defined wrestling as a sport that “many boys turned into and men into leaders.” He added that through this sport, position or rank didn’t matter. In short, life is not about the status, but it is about facing fears and conquering them. Remember, the saying “Hard work pays off, dreams come true. Bad times don’t last, but bad guys do” by Scott Hall and “Gold medals aren’t really made of gold. They’re made of sweat, determination, and a hard-to-find alloy called guts” as said by Dan Gable.
Wrestling is a game that can push a person beyond their limits and motivates people to fight their own game—a battle of not just the body and strength but also the mind.
Do you have any other slogans from your favorite wrestlers? Share them in the comments section below or on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. Read more wrestling articles on my blog and check out my book, Fritz Von Erich: Mater of the Iron Claw, to learn the story of one of the industry’s legends.
References
Daily Motivational Quote. n.d. “Wrestling Motivational Quotes.” Accessed January 8, 2018. http://www.daily-motivational-quote.com/wrestlingmotivationalquotes.html.
Sports Feel Good Stories. 2017. “Wrestling Quotes.” Accessed January 8, 2018. https://www.sportsfeelgoodstories.com/wrestling-quotes/.
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March 8, 2018
Do You Have What It Takes to Be a Pro Wrestler?
What does it take to be a pro wrestler? Being a pro wrestler takes more than a large muscular body. Pro wrestling is a full production. To be a pro wrestler, you have to look, act, and be your character. Whether it’s singing, acting, or wrestling, you need to have the commitment to see it through to the end. If you’re ready start your pro wrestling career, here are the steps you need to take:
Attend a pro wrestling school.
How do you become a good pro wrestler? Going to a good pro wrestling school will teach you that. Remember that pro wrestling is more than having a big, strong body. You need 0the right moves, techniques, and skills to entertain the audience, and you can learn these things from pro wrestling schools and your fellow pro wrestling students. Before you decide to enroll into one, though, be sure to do your research. Go to one that’s run by a pro wrestler, or at least backed by one. Find out if the school has produced any successful pro wrestlers. If you don’t have a renowned pro wrestling name backing you up, you should start building for connections in pro wrestling school.
Train your body and mind.
Becoming a pro wrestler is hard work. You have to train your body, eat right, learn a lot of moves, and refine your skills. Above all, you have to prepare your mind for the difficulty ahead. It’s a stiff completion in the professional wrestling circuit. You may spend years in your wrestling career as an unknown wrestler. If your will is weak, you won’t reach your dreams.
Create your character.
They say to keep things in moderation, but in pro wrestling, exaggeration will get your audience’s attention and pave your way to the top. To be a pro wrestler, you have to be an entertainer. You have to shock, horrify, amuse, and amaze the audience with your performance, and your performance will be tied closely with your character. An average character will not do in professional wrestling; you have to create a character that will capture interest and keep it.
Get creative with your stage name.
Your stage name is your branding. You need it to create impact, to define you, and to complete your character. Come up with a stage name that not only goes well with your character, but also gives you reputation.
Design an eye-catching costume.
If you’re not keen on designing your own costume, then have a professional do it. Your costume should go with our wrestling persona and stage name. In an interview for ThoughtCo., professional wrestling manager Jimmy Hart shares a piece of advice he from radio personality Dick Clark: “Just remember that if your dress like you are in the audience, then one day you will be sitting in the audience.”
Build your professional circuit connections.
Find a manager that won’t swindle you, someone who knows the ins and outs of the industry. A manager who knows his job help you find the right opportunities to get into the professional circuit. Most of all, the right managers can connect you to the right people who will help build your professional wrestling career.
Work hard and keep trying.
There will be plenty of obstacles in you path to professional wrestling. In the words of pro wrestler Ken Kennedy in an interview with ThoughtCo., “You’ve got to work hard.… Keep trying. Send tapes. I’ve sent lots of tapes, and I’ve gotten rejected a lot of times. But I never gave up.”
Thinking of becoming a pro wrestler? Tell me all about your experience in the comments section below or on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. Read more wrestling articles on my blog and check out my book, Fritz Von Erich: Mater of the Iron Claw, to learn the story of one of the industry’s legends.
Reference
Cohen, Eric. 2017. “Tips from the Stars on How to Become as Wrestler.” Last modified July 9. Accessed November 10, 2017. https://www.thoughtco.com/tips-from-the-stars-2786691.
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March 2, 2018
Top 10 Wrestling Referees You Should Know About
Being the third man in the squared circle, wrestling referees are often relegated to afterthoughts. They remain mostly unnoticed unless they are forced to intervene or end up doing something wrong. To the spectators, they might appear to be doing nothing, but to professional wrestling companies, they’re an essential part of the show. Here’s a countdown of the top ten wrestling referees of all time.
Earl Hebner
The first entry of this list of top ten wrestling referees is Earl Hebner, who was the official for Montreal Screwjob in 1997. Though he was released in 2005 from WWE, Hebner joined TNA within a year.
Charles Robinson
The face of present-day WWE officiating community, Charles has taken charge of some of the biggest matches ever, including three of Shawn Michaels’ best at WrestleMania. Probably nobody gives a better reaction than he does, seeing wrestlers getting beat up.
Jimmy Korderas
A WWE referee for more than 20 years, Jimmy Korderas has seen several triumphs and tragedies in the ring up close. After retirement from his life in stripes, he has kept himself occupied by doing podcasts and interviews, hosting wrestling radio shows and staying active on social media.
Bryce Remsburg
One of the top wrestling referees on the independent pro wrestling circuit, Remsburg is well-known for his fantastic understanding of the profession and great timing.
Mike Chioda
Having officiated matches like the first WWF Title win of Steve Austin, and Triple H vs. Batista, among others, Mike Chioda must receive a mention in any list of top wrestling referees. He is the go-to guy of WWE when it comes to refereeing big matches.
Jack Doan
Jack Doan was the referee who served the roster for the second longest tenure, before being released in 2013. He climbed his way to the top. Once a truck driver, he ended up doing a full-time gig in WWE and will always be remembered for his epic slide.
Mark Curtis
Brian Hildebrand a.k.a Mark Curtis is one of the most beloved and respected wrestling referees in the history of professional wrestling. Nicknamed as “The Shooter,” Curtis passed away in 1999 after diagnosed with cancer in 1997.
Joey Marella
Son of WWE legend Gorilla Monsoon, Marella officiated big matches like the Intercontinental Championship match between Davey Boy Smith and Bret Hart during the SummerSlam 1992 card. He passed away at just 31 years of age in an automobile accident.
Shawn Michaels
Apart from being a great wrestler, Michaels also has earned a place among the best special wrestling referees. He was able to provide the stripes an additional flavor in his officiated matches.
Nick Patrick
One of the most recognizable wrestling referees in WCW, Patrick actually wanted to be a wrestler, but due to an injury, he ended up becoming a referee instead to stay close to what he was extremely passionate about.
Do you have any other name to be included in this list? Feel free to share it in the comments section below. If you would like to read more about wrestling, please check out my book Fritz Von Erich: Master of Iron Claw. You can also connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. I would love to hear from you.
References
Bills, John. “10 Best Wrestling Referees Ever.” WhatCulture WWE. April 14, 2016. Accessed December 31, 2017. http://whatculture.com/wwe/10-best-wrestling-referees-ever.
Marsico, A. Nicholas A. “Top 10 WWE Referees oOf All Time.” RantSports Pro-Wrestling. Accessed December 31, 2017. http://www.rantsports.com/pro-wrestling/2014/09/24/top-10-wwe-referees-of-all-time/#slide_11.
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February 22, 2018
Interesting Facts about Wrestling Referees
From Earl Hebner to Drake Younger, wrestling referees have played a crucial role in some of the most famous and biggest storylines of pro wrestling over the past few decades. They always have a part to play, even when spectators don’t understand it. Sometimes, these people can play a more important role than the wrestlers involved in the match. Here’s a rundown of 5 surprising and lesser-known facts about pro wrestling referees:
Referees work overtime.
Referees don’t work for just a single match a night. Some can work for four or five different matches in one evening. Some wrestling referees also work as members of the ring crew, where their job involves assembling the ring before and taking it down after the show.
Wrestling referees wear earpieces for reasons.
They use it to communicate with the people backstage as well as the writers. The writers can pass information to the referees through the earpiece, and the referees may communicate the same to the wrestlers to create a memorable fight.
Referee uniforms have changed.
The first uniforms of wrestling referees included blue shirts coupled with bow ties and black pants. Today, they wear a shirt with black and white stripes. However, special guest referees can wear their own spin always.
They are paid handsomely.
Contrary to the popular belief, wrestling referees receive handsome compensation. The best referees can earn $2,500 a week, and some may even bring home $5,000, particularly if they’re overseeing a main event.
Mike Chioda is the longest tenured WWE referee.
Mike Chioda, the senior WWE Official, has been associated with the company for longer than most of the present main roster superstars. Having started in 1989, Chioda has a longer WWE life than the Undertaker who debuted at the 1990 Survivor Series.
Do you have any other names in mind? Feel free to share them in the comments section below. To learn more about wrestling, especially the illustrious Von Erich family, go ahead and check out my book, Fritz Von Erich: Master of the Iron Claw. You can also reach me on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads.
References
BogglingFacts. 2016. “10 Cool Facts about WWE Referees You Didn’t Know.” Last modified January 12. Accessed January 2, 2018. http://www.bogglingfacts.com/lists/wwe/10-cool-facts-about-wwe-referees-you-didnt-know/.
Sturm, Frank. 2015. “Top 15 Interesting Facts About Wrestling Referees.” TheSportster.com, November 2. Accessed January 2, 2018. https://www.thesportster.com/wrestling/top-15-interesting-facts-about-wrestling-referees/.
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