UKFF British and Irish Wrestling Hall of Fame 2019 - STAGE ONE

[AJSTYLES]

After voting 23 individuals to the UKFF British and Irish Hall of Fame in the first two years the Hall of Fame is back in 2019 with the hope to induct 10 more!

The criteria I have come up with are as follows:

~Must be 20 years since they made their entry into wrestling
~Must have made a significant impact on British and Irish Wrestling OR in the name of British and Irish Wrestling

Because the word ‘significant’ can mean different things to different people I have included a list of over 150 names to choose from with mini bios (thanks to information gained from wrestlingheritage.co.uk.) The list contains names from the 1930s-1990s who had an impact for a variety of reasons to try and keep the list diverse. Obviously it is highly likely I have forgotten some names or overlooked their impact so feel free to put people forward and I will get them added to the list.

So for stage 1 I am asking anyone who wants to take part to nominate NO MORE than 15 names for who they feel should be inducted into the UKFF British and Irish Wrestling Hall of Fame. I hope to get this list down to about 25 names for stage two and from that name our first Hall of Famers.

Feel free to champion your guys in this thread and make your list public if you please. But only lists PM’d to me by 23:59 on February 15th will be counted.

Please choose 15 names from the list below and PM them to me by 23:59 on February 15th

AJ Styles - Made his in ring debut in 1998 making his first appearance in the UK for FWA in 2002 at the first British Uprising. Wrestled James Tighe in the main event of FWA British Uprising 3. Challenged for TNA X-Division title in the main event of the first Wrestling Channel Supershow. Lost to Abyss in the final of the 1PW World Heavyweight title tournament. Toured with TNA on the companies first UK tour. Won the Revolution Pro Wrestling British Heavyweight Championship in June 2015 holding it until the following January. Become the first man to win the WWE World Heavyweight title on the British Isles when he beat Jinder Mahal in November 2017

Al Marquette – English wrestler, made his debut in the late 60s. Working under a judo gimmick. Joined Joint Promotion before decades end, immediately made a name for himself in a Royal Albert Hall bout with Steve Logan. One of the more popular television stars of the 1970s. Formed The Judokas tag team with Pete Roberts. Retired in 1977.

Al Miquet - English wrestler, turned professional aged 17. Beat Jim Breaks for the British Light Heavyweight title. Considered one of the top lightweights in a country when a car crash almost ended his career in 1971. Returned to action as part of a tag team called The Jet Sets with Jon Cortez.

Alan Colbeck -English wrestler, Turned professional with the end of the Second World War. Held British titles in three weight divisions (Lightweight, Welterweight and Middleweight) As well as a run as European Welterweight Champion. With the formation of Joint Promotions was the first man selected to hold the Lord Mountevans Welterweight title. Battled Mick McManus in 1965 in a battle so intense that the football score updates were not shown until after the contest.

Alan Kilby – English Wrestler, 5 times British Heavy Middleweight Champion, 5 time British Light Heavyweight champion. Wrestled from 1960s-2000s. Remarkable due to the fact he was deaf.*Finalist in 2018

Albert Rocky Wall - English wrestler. Made his debut aged 22. Held the British Heavyweight title for three weeks in 1966. Regained the title from Gwyn Davies in 1970 with the two exchanging runs with the gold thereafter. Twice selected to wrestle the future Andre The Giant in the UK. Appeared 12 times on television in 1971 the most for that year.

Alex Shane –English Wrestler, Promoter most notably for the Frontier Wrestling Alliance which helped British Wrestling evolve from the World of Sport area, multiple time British Heavyweight champion, producer of Wrestle Talk TV, Host of Wrestle Talk on Talk Sport, Commentator for the World of Sport revival in 2016

Alfred Hayes – English Wrestler, wrestled as Judo Al Hayes. Wrestled in UK from 1950s-1970s before relocating to America. Defeated NWA World Heavyweight Champion Dory Funk Jr but decision was reversed. After retirement became a manager before becoming a backstage interviewer, host and commentator for the WWF during the 1980s boom period.*Finalist in 2018

Andre Baker – English wrestler, promoter for NWA UK Hammerlock, which was an NWA affiliate. One of first promoters to use imports from the US on a regular basis, helped develop the career of next generation wrestlers Alex Shane, Jody Fleisch, Nikita, Jonny Storm, Doug Williams, Finn Balor and Wade Barrett.

Andy Robin - Scottish wrestler, Often accompanied by Hercules the Bear (who would become a major celebrity in his own right, appearing in multiple films and now immortalised in statue form.) His Power Lock Hold was thought to be inescapable and Robin to be near invincible. Holder of the Commonwealth Mid Heavyweight title.

Angus Campbell - Irish-Scottish Wrestler, Captured the European Union Heavyweight title in 1978. Began wrestling in Stampede Wrestling and later Central States wrestling. Also wrestled in Japan where he teamed with Billy Robinson in a 45 Minute time limit draw with The Funk Brothers
Arthur Beaumont - English wrestler, held the British Mid Heavyweight title in 1963. One of the most respected wrestlers by his peers, recognised as a “real” wrestler. Well versed in the Lancashire style of Catch Wrestling.

Atholl Oakeley - One of the men behind the return of wrestling to the British isle when he started promoting all-in-wrestling in the 1930s. Became the first British champion since turn of the century when he won a tournament in 1930. Held the title until 1934 before retiring. Continued to promote until 1954. *Finalist in 2018

Bert Assirati – English Wrestler, multiple time British Heavyweight Champion between 1945-1960. Member of the Wrestling Observer Hall of Fame. Had a reputation for double crossing opponents in the ring and had a verbal feud with Lou Thesz, claiming Thesz was too afraid to face him.

Bert Royal - One of the big name middleweights from the 1950s until 1970s. Held the titles in both the Middleweight and Heavy Middleweight titles. Formed The Royal Brothers with his brother Vic Faulkner. Regarded by many to be the greatest British tag team.


Bill Dundee – Scottish born wrestler, moved to Australia at a young age. Started wrestling in Australia in 1962 before relocating to the United States in 1974. Became a huge star in Memphis Wrestling due to his ongoing feuds with Jerry Lawler and Jimmy Valiant. Held multiple titles through the United States. Acclaimed booker of wrestling in Memphis, Louisiana and Georgia.*Finalist in 2018

Bill Garnon – English wrestler, Had the first match promoted under free style rules (what we now recognise as modern pro wrestling) in the UK when he opened a card for Atholl Oakeley in London. Toured the USA and Cuba a rarity in pre-war years. Won the British Heavyweight title in the 1930s. Career met its end when he was seriously injured when hit by a bus.

Billy Joyce - English wrestler, Regarded by many as the greatest Heavyweight wrestler of all time. Taught Billy Robinson and Karl Gotch for the ring. Won the British Heavyweight title in 1958 and kept a grip of the title until 1967 dropping the title for brief time periods in those years. In his later years he dropped weight divisions winning the Light Heavyweight title in 1971

Bill Ross - Scottish wrestler, Holder of the Scottish Light Heavyweight title. On three occasions won the European Light Heavyweight title and held on to the Commonwealth Light Heavyweight title from 1971-1976. Reluctance to wrestle beyond Scotland and North of England means he is sometimes forgotten in the discussions for great British Lightweights.

Billy Riley – Founder of the Legendary Snake Pit wrestling school in Wigan where he taught Catch Wrestling a style that British Wrestling would be known for. Known as a devastating “hooker.” Won British Empire Championship in Africa. Students include Karl Gotch, Bert Assirati, Jack Dempsey and Billy Robinson.

The Black Diamonds (Abe Ginsberg & Eric Cutler) - Originally Ginsberg and John Foley, Cutler join the team when Foley moved to Canada in 1966. Known for their black beards and black helmets. Ranked 2nd in Wrestling Heritage’s polls of greatest tag teams. One of the top tag teams on television

Blondie Barratt – English wrestler, mainstay Heel during the World of Sport era. Formed a tag team with Kendo Nagasaki. Continued to wrestle throughout the UK into the 2010s.

Bob Gregory - Turned professional in 1931 when he was 19 years old. Won the World Light Heavyweight title in 1939. Retired in 1946. Outside of wrestling worked for BBC Radio and Television as well as using his celebrity to advertise Alka-Setlzer and Vita Grape Juice

Bobby Barnes – English Wrestler, Formed the Hell’s Angels with Adrian Street. One of the top tag teams of the TV era. Began Wrestling in 1958. Known for his golden blonde hair

Bobby Barron – Wrestled under the moniker Beautiful Bobby. Became coastal Lancashire’s number one promoter. Most notably in Blackpool. Influential in the careers of William Regal, Klondyke Kate and Robbie Brookside

Bobby Palmer - Initially a wrestler in the Lightweight divisions. Turned to refereeing anc MC’ing following his retirement. Worked for Dale Martin Promotions. Often bought dignity and credibility to the wrestling shows.

Bobby Ryan - English wrestler. Firm fan favourite. First class Lightweight. Clashes with Jim Breaks stole the show around the country. The pair exchanged both the British and European Lightweight titles. Retired in 1982.

Brian Glover – English wrestler, wrestled under the name Leon Arras. Make the transition into acting where he appeared in films such as An American Werewolf in London, Alien 3 and most notably Kes. Hated heel in the UK who formed a tag team known as The Untouchables with Bobby Graham.

Brian Maxine – English Wrestler, known as Goldenbelt. Won the British Middleweight title in 1969 which he held until his retirement in the 2000s. Became the first wrestler to hold titles in two different weight classes at the same time. Outlandish gimmick which included handing fans business cards as a souvenir.

Bruno Elrington - 20 stone wrestler who had surprising speed and agility for a man his size. Had enormous presence. Popularity led to him being just billed as Bruno as fans would know exactly who “Bruno” was. Won the Royal Albert Hall Trophy in 1969. Which resulted in a clash with the future Andre The Giant at the Royal Albert Hall. Beat Al Hayes for the Southern England title.

Caribbean Sunshine Boys - An option to induct Dave Bond and Johnny Kincaid (See entries) as a duo rather than singles.

Catweazle – English wrestler whose gimmick was based off the television show of the same name. Was a more defined gimmick in an era where most wrestlers were boots and tights. Well loved by the fans, his act included licking his lucky toad.

Charles Mascall - Journalist who would report on wrestling when most would not. Championed British wrestling. The main publicist for Dale Martin Promotions. Long standing editor of the most influential wrestling publication The Wrestler.

Chic Cullen – English Wrestler, spent time in Stampede Wrestling before coming back to the UK to wrestling on World of Sport where he won two British Heavy Middleweight titles before heading back to Canada as a trainer

Chris Adams – English wrestler, known as The Gentleman. Won British Commonweath Tag Titles and British Light Heavyweight title before heading stateside in 1981 where he won multiple titles in multiple territories. Most notable run was in WCCW where he was NWA American Heavyweight Champion 4 times and feuded with The Von Erichs. Trained Stone Cold Steve Austin for the ring. *Finalist in 2018

Cliff Beaumont – English wrestler. Heralded by Billy Robinson as one of the three Lightweights in the country. Before the days of nationally recognised champions, was declared British and European Champion in the North of England. Appeared on the first UK televised wrestling show.

Clive Myers - Turned pro in 1970. Former amateur wrestler and weightlifter. Known for his acrobatic style. Was made the Welterweight Champion of the West Indies. Known as Iron Fist. The finished to his match with Mick McManus on World of Sport is legendary and is often spoken about by those who witness it. Was a top challenger in multiple weight classes

Colt Cabana - American Wrestler. Made his first appearance in the UK wrestling CM Punk at FWA British Uprising II. Formed Team SHAG with Darren Burridge winning the 1PW Tag Team titles from Jonny Storm and Jody Fleisch in a reign that lasted almost 6 months. Had an almost year long reign as RevPro British Heavyweight Champion when he became the company’s second ever champion by defeating Sha Samuels. *First Year Eligible 

Count Bartelli – English wrestler, undefeated between 1946-1966. Held the British Empire/Commonwealth 3 times only 1 of 2 men to have this achieve this. Title was abandoned when he retired as champion

Cyanide Sid Cooper – English wrestler, Known for his heelish comedy ways and unforgettable facial expressions. Wrestled in the 1960s-1980s. Formed tag teams with Alan Dennison and Iron Jaw Joe Murphy. Had a long feud with Referee Max Ward. Helped train Tiger Mask. Personal hero of William Regal.

Danno O’Mahoney – Irish wrestler, known for the Irish Whip who the move is named after. Began wrestling in the United States in 1934 losing his debut match to Ed “Strangler” Lewis. Beat Lewis for the NWA World Title in 1935 lost the title in 1936 to Dick Shikat in his only his second career loss. Immortalised with a statue in County Cork *Finalist in 2018

Danny Flynn – Entered the pro ranks in the late 1930s. Known for his generosity in the ring. Joined Joint Promotions in 1952 but was often overlooked for television appearances and turned independent in 1959. Promoted his own shows in the North. Formed Cape Promotions on of the biggest independent promotions in the UK. Was killed in an automobile accident in the 1960s

Danny Lynch - One of the more aggressive wrestlers of the 1960s. Often bled in his matches due to opponents retaliations. One of the early innovators of the hardcore style. Which he took across UK , Europe and Japan. Joining Stampede Wrestling in Canada he defeated Dave Ruhl to win Calgary’s version of the NWA Canadian Heavyweight title in 1969.

Danny Boy Collins – English Wrestler, Made his pro debut in 1983, captured the British Welterweight title in 1984 winning the European Welterweight title the following year. After the World of Sport years captured Fit Finlay’s British Heavy Middleweight title for his first reign and defeating Owen Hart for his second run. Heel turn in 1994 changed his character. Still regularly wrestles across the UK.

Dave Bond - Known as The Butcher, Soulman and The Lion. Was often disqualified for his rule breaking ways. Formed The Caribbean Sunshine Boys in 1977 with Johnny Kincaid. Became one of the most hated teams in the UK. The decision was made to split the team within a year to prevent racial riots. Bond continued to wrestle for a further decade after the team’s split retiring in 1988.

Dave Taylor – English wrestler, made his debut in 1978. After joining All Star made his first World of Sport television appearance in 1987. Defeated Fit Finlay for the All-Star British Heavyweight Title in 1991 holding the title until 1993. Reclaimed the title following a tournament win in 1995. 2x CWA Tag Team Champion. Signed with WCW in 1995 where he formed the Blue Bloods stable with Steven Regal and Bobby Eaton. Worked as a trainer in Ohio Valley Wrestling for WWE. Became an onscreen talent for WWE in 2006 often challenging for the tag titles with Regal.*Finalist in 2018

Dean Ayass – Wrestling manager, commentator, booker and ring announcer. Worked as co-host on Talk Sport’s wrestling talk show. Managed in multiple companies including being a part of the Old School stable in FWA. Known as the Twisted Genius. Provided commentary for many big shows including The Wrestling Channel Supershows.

Dennis Mitchell - English wrestler, the Northern Golden Boy. Winner of the Royal Albert Hall trophy in 1956. Dethroned Billy Joyce for the British Heavyweight title holding the title for 6 months. Was scheduled to face Lou Thesz before Thesz had to return to the United State prematurely.

Dino Scarlo – English wrestler, wrestled as Dapper Dino Scarlo. Was part of the UWA which aired on Live TV. Backstage influence in the Frontier Wrestling Alliance as well as in front of the camera where he was a large part of the old school vs new school feud.

Doc Dean – English wrestler made his debut aged 14. Formed the Liverpool Lads with Robbie Brookside. Tunrd heel on Brookside igniting an exciting feud. Was part of the NJPW Super J tournament in 1997 where he picked up a victory over Jushin Liger. Signing with WCW saw him close out his career as a jobber.

Don Robinson - Former wrestler known as Dr Death moved to promoting. “The Northern arm of Paul Lincoln.” Promoter of wrestling on the BBC in 1966. Promoted events in India, Finland, Poland and Sweden. Event in India at Patel Stadium drew 50,000 fans. One of the few independent promoters who could challenge the might of Joint Promotions.

Douglas Clark - English Wrestler, Three times holder of Cumberland and Westmorland Style Championship. Defeated Antholl Oakeley for the British Heavyweight title in a title change that was later erased. Unbeatable to fellow British wrestlers and would only lose to the best overseas wrestlers.

Drew McDonald – Scottish wrestler, Began working in England in 1984 for Joint Promotions becoming a main stay on the World of Sport show feuding with Big Daddy. After World of Sport continued to wrestle across the UK for promotions such as All Star (where he won the British Heavyweight title) and FWA (where he won the tag team titles.) Wrestled well into the 2010s. *Finalist in 2017 & 2018

Dudley Gillingham – wrestled in the UK as a babyface under the name Alan Garfield. One of the first wrestlers to adopt the British aristocrat gimmick when he wrestled in the United States as Dudley Gillingham

Eddie Capelli - English wrestler. Succeeded Harold Angus as the British Welterweight Champion in 1949. Holding the title for three years before dropping the belt to Mick McManus. Won the European Tag Team titles with Ken Joyce. Heel turn in the later years of his career led to a slide down the card but was often used as a reliable heel stepping stone for the babyfaces.

Emi Sakura - Japanese wrestler. Turned pro in 1995. Make her debut in the United Kingdom for Pro Wrestling Eve in 2011 becoming a regular for the all women’s promotion. Took the promotions top crown in 2012 when she defeated Nikki Storm before dropping the title back to Storm a few months later. Has continued to be a regular for the promotion taking part in Queen of the Ring and Ace of Eve tournaments

Eric Sands - English wrestler, Turned professional in 1952. Dethroned Johnny Stead for the British Lightweight Championship in 1953. Upped his weight to the Welterweight division defeating champion World Welterweight Champion Jim Lewis.

Eric Taylor – English wrestler, UK’s first British Heavy Middleweight Champion, a title he would from 1953-1966. Highly regarded among his peers who regarded him as the perfect wrestler. After leaving Joint Promotions formed A&T promotions with Johnny Allan.

Ernest Baldwin - English wrestler, turned professional in 1939. Briefly donned a mask as The Masked Marvel. With the formation of Joint Promotions was selected as the first man to hold the Lord Mountevans Heavyweight title in 1952. Three time British heavyweight champion. Unsuccessfully challenged NWA World Heavyweight Champion Lou Thesz in 1957. A Broken leg in 1961 ended his career.

Ernie Riley - Son of Billy Riley. Four times British Light Heavyweight Champion between 1952 and 1969. Dismissive of gimmicks believing the wrestling should do all the talking. Fans often complained that his title defences were far too sparse.

Farmer Johnny Allan - English wrestler. Turned professional in 1951 aged 20. Held World Middleweight Champion Gilbert Le Duc to a draw. Took the British Middleweight Title from Norman Walsh in 1964. Left Joint Promotions to wrestle independently and promote.

Findlay Martin – Co-founder of Superstars of Wrestling/Powerslam magazine which was in publication from 1991-2014. Europe’s best selling Wrestling publication.

The Fisher Brothers (Norman, Arthur, Len, Charlie and Stan) - Five brothers who all turned to professional wrestling. Arthur and Charlie were the more successful of the bunch. Arthur was a top notch Middleweight Wrestler. Whilst oldest brother Charlie won the British Light Heavyweight title. Charlie later became a referee for Dale Martin Promotions.

Flash Barker – English wrestler, Long term UK independent wrestler. Former FWA British Heavyweight Champion which he lost in the main event of the first British Uprising. After retirement acted as FWA Commissioner

Flatliner - English Wrestler. One of the first muscle wrestlers on the UK scene in a time when most the talent were far smaller. Trained by Karl Krammer & Robbie Brookside. Is a former 2 time EWU European Union Heavyweight Champion. Wrestled for the original FWA in 2000 and as recently as 2016 battled for RevPro. Appeared on the UK tv show Distraction hosted by Jimmy Carr. *First year eligible

Francis Gregory – Considered the most noteworthy of the Cornish Wrestlers. Known as the last great Cornish wrestler. Exhibited Cornish wrestling at the London Palladium winning all of his matches. Wrestled in the first match aired on UK television against Mike Marino.

Gary Steele – English wrestler, wrestled primarily for NWA UK Hammerlock. Competed in the United States. Became the first Brit to win the NWA World Heavyweight title when he defeated champion Naoya Ogawa and Brian Anthony in a three way dance in 1999. Held the title for one week

Geoff Portz – English Wrestler, turned professional in 1951. Wrestled Lou Thesz to a 15 round draw in 1957. Held the British Heavyweight title for 6 months in 1964. Wrestled for Stampede Wrestling winning their North American Heavyweight Championship on four occasions

George Kidd – Scottish wrestler, Won a tournament in 1947 to win the Scottish Light Heavyweight title. Beat Jack Dempsey for the British Light Heavyweight Title in 1948. Became recognised as the World Light Heavyweight Champion when he defeated Rene Ben Chemoul. Kidd would reign for the next 20 years retiring as the champion.

Gerry Hoggarth - Won the British Heavyweight title in front of 5000 fans in the Royal Albert Hall in 1953 from Jock Ward. Also had a stint as the European Heavyweight Champion. With the advent of televised wrestling it was believed Hoggarth would become one of the countries top television stars however injury struck and he was forced to retired in 1959. Continued in the wrestling business as a referee.

Gwyn Davies - Turned professional in 1952. Majority of his early bouts were teaming with his famous father Ken Davies. Won his first British Heavyweight title in 1966. Davies and Albert Hall would have a decade long feud over ownership of the British Heavyweight title. Wrestled until 1980 when a back injury forced retirement.

Harold Angus – English Wrestler, Represented Great Britain in the Olympics in 1928 and Commonwealth games in 1930 where he won the silver medal. Turned professional in late 1930s. Won the British Welterweight title in 1938 a title he held for 10 years until he was killed in a shooting accident

Harry Fields - Turned professional with the end of the Second World War aged 16. Was an overnight sensation when the rings were dominated by older heavier men. In 1948 he worked in Mexico which was almost unheard of. Became the 2nd holder of the Lord Mountevans British Middleweight title winning the title a further two times to close out the 1950s. Losing the title for good in 1961.

Ian Campbell - Scottish wrestler, Toured the United States in the 1950s, a rarity for the time. Began promoting in 1958 using a variety of talents including women and midget wrestling also using international talents like Lou Thesz and Peter Maivia. Didn’t make a name for himself as a wrestler in the UK until 1959. In 1960 an appearance at The Royal Albert Hall caught the imagination of the country, Selected to wrestle at The Royal Albert Hall in 1963 in front of Prince Phillip.

Jack Atherton – Turned pro in the 1930s. Reportedly was disqualified in his first professional contest. Became a huge favourite following the end of the Second World War. Retired from the ring after two decades in the 1950s. Formed own promotion which had an agreement with Joint Promotions to use their talent. Known for his kindness and fairness as a wrestling promoter.

Jack Beaumont – One of the top Lightweights in the country. As early as 1948 was considered to be the only serious challenger to Jack Dale’s Middleweight title when he held Dale to a draw. Travelled throughout Europe in 1948. Died aged just 45 following a match in 1963.

Jack Dempsey – English Wrestler, Won British Welterweight title from Tony Lawrence in 1953. Would hold the title for 3 years before losing to Mick McManus. Reclaimed the title in 1958. Would remain champion for a further 8 years vacating the title due to illness.

Jack Pye – English wrestler, Battled Atholl Oakley over the British Heavyweight title in 1933. Crossover appeal led to three film appearances. A bust is on display at Blackpool’s Stanley Park Sport’s Centre. Wrestled under the names Dirty Jack Pye, Filthy Jack Pye and the Doncaster Panther.

James Mason – English wrestler. Made his debut in 1993. Won All Star Young Wrestler of the Year in 1995. Won the World Middleweight title in 1996. Exchanged the title with Mal Sanders in 2002. Wrestled as part of a team with Chad Collyer for Michinoku Pro Wrestling. Represented Team Britain as part of the TNA World X-Cup in 2004. Won British Heavyweight title in 2006. Continues to wrestle throughout the country most notably for All Star.

Jean Ferre - The future Andre The Giant. First appeared in British rings in 1969. Stood almost 7 feet and weighed 22 stone. Travelled far and wide during his UK tours covering all corners. On his second tour was portrayed as invincible before disqualification losses and a tag team loss to Albert Wall and Gwyn Davies whilst teaming with Gargantua.

Jim Breaks – English wrestler, known for his heel tactics. Known as “Cry Baby” to the fans. Turned pro in 1958. Would go on to win the British Light Heavyweight title, British Welterweight title and European Lightweight title. Won the British Middleweight title 5 times. It is believed he won 32 titles in total. *Arrested in 2017 on suspicion of the murder of his ex-partner* *Finalist in 2017 & 2018

Jim Lewis - Known as Gentleman Jim. Known for his cheating tactics and flamboyant style. An influence on Adrian Street and Bobby Barnes. Won the World Welterweight title numerous times over 20 years. Was one of the first wrestler to try and form a wrestler union. This led to a period of exile to the independent promotions.

Jim Mellor- Began wrestling as war was breaking out in Europe. Enlisted in the army where he was taken prisoner of war. Following the conflict return to wrestling mainly in the Far East where he won the South East Asian Welterweight title. Wrestled all the big names of his era in the Welterweight and Middleweight division. Was relied on by promoters to have a good match with just about anyone.

Jody Fleisch – Made his debut for NWA UK Hammerlock aged 16. Wrestled for Michinoku Pro Wrestling as Dakko Chan. Won the FWA King of England tournament which aired on Bravo. Won the FWA British Heavyweight title in the main event of the first British Uprising show. Wrestled for ROH and CZW in the United States. Influential in evolving British Wrestling from the World of Sport era. *Finalist in 2017 & 2018

Joe Cornelius -English wrestler, entered the business in the early 1950s. Known as the dazzler due to his sequinned capes. Won the Southern England Heavyweight title which he held until his retirement in 1967.

Joe D’Orazio -Turned professional in 1948. Battle many of the era’s greats retiring in 1968 due to injuries. Turned to a career as a referee for Dale Martin Promotions. Well a well loved referee of the 60s and 70s who officiated thousands of matches and was a regular at the Royal Albert Hall.

Joe Robinson – English Wrestler, Won European Heavyweight title in 1952. Short wrestling career ended with an elbow injury. Following his ring years took up acting which included credits such as Carry On Regardless, Barabbas, The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner and Diamonds Are Forever.

John Freemantle - Premier Promotions’ matchmaker and promoter. First show took place on December 14 1987 making Premier Promotions one of the lost running promotions in the country. Unholds traditional British rules. Has promoted over 100 venues and booked hundreds of wrestlers. Previously wrote for ‘The Wrestler’starting in the 1960s before becoming a promoter

John Quinn – Canadian wrestler, Wrestled in United States and Canada from 1961-1977 including a two year run with the WWWF before relocating to the UK in 1977. Had an Anti-British gimmick issuing open challenges to British Heavyweights. Wrestled Big Daddy at Wembley Arena for a crowd of 10,000. Won the British Heavyweight title before jumping to All Star whilst still champion. Would continue to wrestle in Britain until 1988 when the decline of the scene led him to return to Canada.

John Lister – English journalist. Has written online columns fir the Fight Network and Live Audio Wrestling. Written articles for The Guardian on the deaths of Jackie Pallo and Mick McManus. Author of Wrestling Books Turning the Tables and Slamthology. Author of Greeting Grapple Fans a book about British Wrestling which is available in Kindle form. Written for both Powerslam and Fighting Spirit Magazines.

Johnny Kidd - English Wrestler. Made his debut in 1978. Made his television debut in 1981. Groomed for greatness from the beginning when he was chosen to face names such as Mick McManus, Johnny Saint and Jim Breaks. Continued to practice the British style after the end of WOS. Respect from modern fans let to matches in FWA, LDN, PCW, Progress and Chikara amongst others. Retired in 2016.

Johnny Kincaid - English wrestler, made his debut in 1963. Joined Joint Promotions in 1969. Known for his bleach blonde hair. Formed The Caribbean Sunshine Boys with Dave Bond, who drew so much heat the team were split to prevent racial riots. Won the European Championship in Germany in 1980

Johnny Kwango - English wrestler, Ballet dancer turned wrestler. Was part of The Ballet Negres the first all black dance company in Europe. Billed as the King of the Headbutts. Featured on the first Royal Show in 1963. Started wrestling in the 1950s. Wrestled into his sixties, became a referee after retirement.

Johnny Peters - English wrestler, entered the ring in the 1940s. Formed a tag team with Dazzler Joe Cornelius which helped build the popularity of tag team wrestling. Scored a 12 second victory over George Kidd. Defeated Gilbert Le Duc in Paris for the European Welterweight title in 1953. Held the Southern Area Heavyweight title for many years. Retired in 1965

Johnny Moss - Held titles throughout multiple promotions such as 1PW, IPW:UK and WCPW. 6 time NWA UK Heavyweight Champion. One of the first British wrestlers to have a body on par (or better) than those competing on television. Became one of the first British Independent Wrestlers to rank in the PWI 500 when he ranked 368 in 1999. Currently working as a trainer at the WWE Performance centre 

Johnny Smith - English wrestler, made his debut aged 16 in 1982. Joined Stampede Wrestling in 1985. Where he was billed as Davey Boy Smith’s brother. Formed tag team with Dynamite Kid known as The British Bruisers. Toured NJPW and AJPW. Wrestled briefly for ECW. Was on tour with AJPW when he collapsed leading to his retirement

Johnny Stead - English wrestler. Competed in the 1936 Olympics. Turned professional rather than compete in the 1948 games. Won the British Lightweight title in 1950 with a victory over Alan Colbeck. Remained the dominant force the Lightweight Division until the mid 1950s.

Jon Ryan - Known as ‘The Bad Boy of British Wrestling’Started his career competing for NWA UK and has since made appearances for IPW:UK, Progress Wrestling, FWA, RQW, wXw and CZW among many others. Ranked 354 in the PWI 500 in 2000 when British Independent Wrestlers appearing on the list was a rarity.

Jonny Storm - English Wrestler, made his debut in 1997. Wrestled as part of the UWA on Live TV. Has wrestled for almost every UK based promotion. Had a series of matches with Jody Fleisch which helped revolutionise the British wrestling scene. Match with Fleisch won American promotion CZW’s match of the year. Also wrestled for TNA and PWG. Was the first and only ever XPW European Champion *Finalist in 2017 & 2018

JR Foley - English wrestler, trained by Billy Riley. Original member of the Black Diamonds tag team. Formed the tag team The British Bulldogs with Ted Heath. After retirement managed the likes of Dynamite Kid, Giant Haystacks, Honky Tonk Wayne, The Cobra and The Viet Kong Express in Stampede Wrestling

Judo Ed Hamill – Made his in ring debut in 1971 and hit TV screens in 1975. Started his career as regular Ed Hamill before adopting the Judo gimmick. Originally worked the gimmick under a mask. Was unmasked by Kendo Nagasaki in 1976 at Royal Albert Hall and Mick McManus on TV. Made a tour of Canada in 1981.

Julien Morice – French wrestler. Came to the UK in the 1960s following reigns as European Lightweight champion. Had lightweight classics against George Kidd. Entered a brief feud with Mick McManus. Competed in the first tag team match at the Royal Albert Hall when he teamed with Zoltan Boscik against The Cortez Brothers.

Justin Richards – English wrestler. Turned pro in 1993. Initially with NWA Hammerlock UK he would win the FWA British Heavyweight Championship in 2000. Was part of the Old School stable in FWA who went to war with the new school of wrestlers.

Karl Kramer - English wrestler, applied his trade in mainland Europe for most of his career. Former European Wrestling Union Heavyweight Champion. Formed the The Assassins with Ricky Knight winning the Herts and Essex Tag Team Titles. Made an appearance in WCW. Briefly join the Old School in the FWA against the New School

Kathleen Lock- The first female promoter in Great Britain. Took up promoting in 1933 at the Belle Vue in Manchester. Promoted Douglas Clark vs Bill Garnon title bout. A Newspaper article in 1936 stated that she promoted four shows per week.

Keith Haward – Won a Silver medal at the Commonwealth games in 1978 as well as competing in the 1976 Olympics in Wrestling. Turned professional in the 1980s adopting the name Hurricane. Held the European Middleweight title on three occasions between 1979 and 1987 when the division was dominated by himself Clive Myers and Mal Sanders.

Keith Myatt - English wrestler. Made his debut in 1982. Joined Joint Promotions in 1984. Wrestled the likes of Big Daddy, Mark Rocco, Fit Finlay and Johnny Saint in his early years. One of the longest tenured wrestlers in the UK today he continues to wrestle for promotions such as PCW

Ken Joyce – English wrestler, moved to Canada aged 6 weeks before returning to the UK aged 13. Turned professional in 1941. Held the British Welterweight title before claiming the European Welterweight title which he had to vacant when he was unable to travel to Paris to defend the gold. Was also a holder of the European Tag Team title with Eddie Capelli.

Lady Blossom - English Valet. Managed her then boyfriend Chris Adams for Joint Promotions between 1979-1981. In 1990 started valeting for Stunning Steve Austin for USWA. Which led to intergender matches teaming with Austin against Chris Adams and wife Toni. Joined WCW in 1991 but retired after less than a year. Credited with the invention of the “Stone Cold” name

Les Kellett - English wrestler. Began wrestling in 1938. Resumed his career following the war. Nominated for ITV Sports Personality of the Year. Known for his comedy tactics in the ring but also his genuine toughness. One of the most popular stars of the World of Sport era. Wrestled into his sixties. Selected to train Jimmy Saville for the ring *Finalist in 2018

Les Thornton - English Wrestler. Competed in Japan as well as Stampede Wrestling and WWF. Held the WWF and NWA Lightweight title simultaneously. Held junior titles in multi American territories including Florida, Mid-Atlantic, Mid-America, Southeastern and WWC. Held tag titles thoughout United States. 2x Stampede North American Champion.

Lord James Blears – English wrestler, entered the ring in 1942. Ring career put on hold by the war where his ship was torpedoed where 71 out of 76 crew members were murdered by the Japanese. After the war wrestled in the UK for two more years before moving to USA transforming himself into Lord James Blears. Won multiple titles in the United States across 4 territories including 24 Tag Team title reigns and a run as NWA Hawaii Heavyweight Champion. Was unsuccessful in his attempt to win the NWA World Heavyweight title from Lou Thesz. Personally invited by Rikidozan to wrestle in Japan and was later influential in Davey Boy Smith and Dynamite Kid getting booked in AJPW.

Lord Littlebrook - English midget wrestler. Started wrestling in 1949 in the United states, using a stereotypical British gimmick. Travelled numerous wrestling territories in the United States, Japan and Australia. Joined AWA in 1979. Competed in a tag match at AWA WrestleRock. Wrestled in a 6 man tag at Wrestlemania III. Later worked as a manager in WCW for The Royal Family.

Lou Ravelle – Got his start in the fairground booths. Began working for Dale Martin Promotions when he moved to London. Wrestled throughout the 50s and 60s. Later became editor of Wrestling World Magazine. Become the owner of one of London’s first gyms. In 2004 he received the Oscar Heidenstam award for his lifetime contribution to the sport.

Majik - English Wrestler. Became the first NWA United Kingdom Champion in 2002 holding the title for 970 days. Alongside Dragon Aisu as The Damned Nation held tag teams titles in SWA, RQW and 1PW from 2007-2008. Held the top titles in TXW and was a former NWA Scottish Heavyweight title. *First Year Eligible

Mal Mason – Longterm UK referee. Has refereed across Europe, the only referee with theme music

Mal Sanders - English Wrestler, began wrestling in 1977. Ended Mick McManus’ 7 year reign as European Middleweight Champion. One of only two men to beat McManus in two falls in his 170+ televised matches and the only wrestler to beat McManus twice on TV. Won the Mike Marino Memorial Shield. Later wrestled for companies such as FWA and LDN in the 2000s.

Margherich Anaconda – One of the first wrestlers to appear on British Television taking part in the BBC demonstrations in 1938, 1939 and 1947. Wrestled all the top names across the country. Billed as The Swedish Scissors King. Appeared in multiple film roles mostly as a villain. Retired in 1955.

Mark Sloan – English wrestler, Founder of the Fratton Wrestling Alliance, later Frontier Wrestling Alliance which would become one of the most talked about British independents of all time. Head trainer at FWA academy. First ever FWA Champion. Holder of FWA All England title. Trainer of Drew McIntyre, Paul Birchall and Katie Lea Birchill among many others. Still valuable on the scene today contributing to Dragon Gate, NOAH, RevPro and Ring of Honor UK shows. *Finalist in 2017 & 2018

Max Ward – Wrestler and referee. Wrestled throughout the UK and Europe as a Heavyweight wrestler in the 1950s. Following his retirement turned to refereeing in the 1960s. Became a TV referee with the merger of Paul Lincoln Promotions and Dale Martin Promotions. A regular referee at the Royal Albert Hall. Re-entered the ring for a series of Wrestler vs Referee matches with Cyanide Sid Cooper.

Mel Riss – English wrestler, Trained at Billy Riley’s gym. Turned professional in 1950. Lifted the British Lightweight title in 1958 which he kept hold of for 5 years before losing the title to Jim Breaks at the Royal Albert Hall. Remained a contender for the Lightweight Title before joining independent promotions in 1970. His last recorded bout took place in 1974.

Mike Marino – Nicknamed Mr Wrestling Began wrestling in 1951. Appeared in the first televised Wrestling match in the UK in a match against Francis Gregory. Won the World Mid-Heavyweight Championship in 1957 a title he would hold 4 times. Won the European Mid-Heavyweight title in 1967. Won the British Mid-Heavyweight title in 1966 which he held until his death in 1981. The Mike Marino Memorial Shield was founded in his honour.

Mitchell Gill – Main event star of the 1930s and 40s. Often competing against fellow big names Douglas Clark, Bill Garnon and Bert Assirati. Represented Britain across the globe wrestling in Australia, India and Singapore. Retired in the early 1950s.

Mitzi Mueller – English female wrestler, made her debut aged 14 in 1963. Wrestled primarily for All-Star Wrestling. Once the ban on female wrestling was lifted in London. Mueller wrestled in the first women’s match in the city in years when she teamed with Rusty Blair to face Klondyke Kate and Nicky Monroe at the Royal Albert Hall in 1987. Won the British Ladies championship in 1972 and the European Ladies championship in 1975, a title that she held on to until 1990. Made multiple film and TV appearances.

 

New Breed - English tag team consisting of Ashe and Curve. Became the first ever FWA Tag Team champions in 2000 holding the belts for over a year. 2^nd reign with the titles lasted for nearly another 6 months. Hosted their own backstage segment on the early FWA TV show. Was phased out of FWA as the company grew in size and Ashe briefly became a member of The Family. A reunion later in the 2000s bought the team less success *First year eligible

Nigel McGuinness - English wrestler. Trained and made his debut in the United States for Heartland Wrestling Association. Won the HWA Tag Team titles in 2001. Made his way to Ring of Honor in 2003. Became the longest reigning ROH Pure Champion in history holding the belt for 350 days. Won the ROH World Championship in September 2007 holding the belt until 3 April 2009, a massive 545 days. Made his way to TNA in 2009 and wrestled a classic against Kurt Angle as well as adding the TNA Tag Team titles to his collection. After injuries forced him from the ring signed with WWE in 2016 as an announcer where he announces NXT, NXT:UK, 205 Live and Main Event *First Year Eligible

Norman Morrell – After a successful Amateur career which included a trip to the 1936 Olympics entered the professional ranks in 1939. Overcame many big names including Harold Angus. Retired from the ring in the 1940s. Following the war many wrestlers and promotors left the business. Wanting to bring credibility back to the ring. Morrell wrote out a new set of post war wrestling rules which would form the basis of wrestling for the next 50 years. Saving the wrestling business that was on the wane due to gimmick matches and mud wrestling. Morrell bought respectability back to the ring. A founding member of Joint Promotions. Wrestlingheritage.co.uk named him as most influential of all time.

Norman Smiley – English Wrestler. Moved to the United States as a child. Made his pro debut in 1985. Originally known as Black Magic, used his birth name when he represented Great Britain at WCW Starrcade 1990 teaming with Chris Adams. Won CMLL World Heavyweight Championship. Signed with WCW in 1997 where he became the focus point of the Hardcore division. Signed with WWE in 2007 where he works as a trainer with the NXT roster.

Norman The Butcher – Real name was Norman Ansell but he became The Butcher when he entered the ring. Played a significant part in forming the landscape of British wrestling in the 1930s and could often been found in the main events. Was known as The KO King of Britain

Orig Williams – Welsh wrestler and Promoter. Known as El Bandito. Made his pro debut in the 1950s. Became the top billing UK independent wrestler by the 1960s. Known for his rough in ring style. Promoted gimmick matches on S4C’s Reslo wrestling show which could not be seen on World of Sport. Including cage matches, chain matches and women matches. *Finalist in 2017 & 2018

Pat Barrett – Irish wrestler, Started wrestling in Ireland in 1960 before moving to the United States and joining the NWA in 1963. With Tim Geoghegan won the NWA Canadian Tag Team Titles. Join the WWWF in 1975 where he battled Bruno Sammartino for the WWWF World Heavyweight title in a match he lost by countout. Held the WWWF World Tag Team titles with Dominic DeNucci. Won the NWA Mid-Atlantic tag team titles with Norvell Austin. Won the NWA Americas Heavyweight title in NWA Hollywood Wrestling. Returned to Ireland in 1984 and won Irish Heavyweight title and retired in 1985.

Pat Roach – English wrestler. Made his debut in 1960. Won the British Heavyweight title and European Heavyweight title on two occasions. Outside of his wrestling career Roach was known for his acting when he landed a featured role in the TV show Auf Wiedersehen Pet which turned him babyface to the wrestling crowds after years of working heel. He also made an impact in film starring in many Stanley Kubrick projects as well as the Indiana Jones films. *Finalist in 2017 & 2018

Paul Lincoln – Australian Promoter came to Britain in 1951 and entered wrestling as a wrestler in 1952. Turned to promoting in 1958 under Paul Lincoln Managements and overcame enormous odds to become a series rival to Dale Martin Promotions. Bought to Wrestling more colourful characters and gimmicks. His top fued Dr Death vs The White Angel was known to most throughout the country despite lack of TV exposure. Was almost able to snag the ITV contract from Joint Promotions in 1963. Almost reached a deal with the rival BBC but came to nothing. The promotion was engulfed by Joint Promotions by 1966

Phil Powers – English wrestler, made his debut in 1993. Formed the Essex Boys with Paul Tyrell. Was part of the UWA which aired on Live TV wrestling in the first televised British wrestling match in over 10 years against Mad Dog McPhie. Won the UWA television title in a gauntlet match. Would later win the Premier Promotions Light-Heavyweight Championship. Would promote shows under the RQW banner and start running his own training school in Southampton.

Ray Robinson – Made his debut in 1970. Wrestled on the independents throughout the 70s before signing with Joint Promotions in 1981. Made his television debut in 1982 in a losing effort to Alan Kilby. Had to wait until 1984 for his next televised bout but appeared regularly between 1984-1988. Won the British Cruiserweight title in 1989 and held it until his retirement in 1993.

Reg Ray – Turned pro shortly after the war. Known as Gorilla Reg due to the abundance of body hair. Joined Joint Promotions in 1952. One of the first to receive nationwide attention following the advent of televised wrestling. Left Joint Promotions in the 1960s to try his hand at the independents. Wrestled past his prime but was one of the great villains of his time

Ricki Starr – English wrestler, turned pro in 1953. Combined his wrestling skills with his ballet skills. Signed with Vincent McMahon Sr and sold out Madison Square Gardens on many occasions. Becoming a featured attraction for McMahon. Broke a 22 year attendance record in Washington DC when he faced Antonio Rocca. In the UK joined Joint Promotions defeating Steve Logan on Cup final Day in a legendary match. Only one recorded loss in the UK, to Alan Garfield in 1964. Featured star of the film The Touchables *Finalist in 2018

Ricky Knight – English wrestler and promoter. Owner of wrestling promotion WAW. Made his debut in 1985. Held All-Star’s British Heavyweight title and five times British Tag Team champion. Also held heavyweight titles in HEW, Premier Promotions, RDW, W3L and own promotion WAW. Created a wrestling dynasty with wife Sweet Saraya and children Roy and Zak Knight and WWE’s Paige. *Finalist in 2017 & 2018

Robbie Dynamite - English Wrestler. 5 Time British Mid-Heavyweight Champion and the first man to hold the title in 21 years since the death of the previous champion Mike Marino. Became the British Heavyweight Champion in April 2016 but lost it later the same day. Compete for TNA where he represented Great Britain in the 2004 America’s X-Cup but the team came in last place. *First year eligible

Robert Adams – Wrestled in the 1930s as Black Tiger and Black Eagle. Winning the Heavyweight title of the British Empire. His biggest cultural impacts were outside the squared circle however as he became Britain’s first black television actor when he appeared on Theatre Parade in 1937. And was the first black actor to play a dramatic leading role on television. Was the first black actor to play a Shakespearian role on television in 1947.

Robert Bruce – Scottish wrestler, Began wrestling in London in 1967. Toured the world before settling in New Zealand in 1970s. Held the Commonwealth Heavyweight title twice over a 5 year period. Following his retirement he formed The Robert Bruce Talent Agency handling many of New Zealand’s top actors. He himself would appear on 73 TV shows, 39 films and 21 live shows as a stuntman.

Roy Knight – Made his debut aged just 13. Took on the name Zebra Kid. Won the FWA All-England title in his debut match for the company in 2002. Feuded with his father Ricky Knight in the FWA. Challenged ROH World Champion Samoa Joe in a losing effort. Became the first British Wrestler to win the WAW World Heavyweight title. Wrestled in the United States for XPW. Formed a tag team with this brother Zak called the UK hooligans winning multiple tag titles.

Roy St. Clair – English wrestler, entered the ring in 1960. Made more than 80 televised appearances (more than Johnny Kwango, Giant Haystacks, Johnny Saint and Jackie Pallo.) One of the more popular and charismatic performers of the era. Had a four month reign as British Lightweight Champion. Formed a very popular tag team with his brother Tony. Known for wrestling a variety of opponents in different weight classes.

The Royal Brothers - An option to induct Bert Royal and Vic Faulkner (see entries) as a duo rather than singles. Topped Wresting Heritage’s countdown for the greatest Tag Team in British Wrestling history.

Russell Plummer - Wrestling journalist. Starting writing for ‘The Wrestler’ in 1961. Began to write the Programmes for All Star Wrestling and continues to this day as the main media contact.  Written for British Wrestling for almost 60 years.

Sandy Orford – Welsh wrestler, Started wrestling during the 1940s. Wrestled 6 time World Champion Lou Thesz on 3 occasions, resulting in two losses and a draw. Trained the future Big Daddy, Shirley Crabtree for the ring. Defeated Crabtree in Crabtree’s debut match. Previously was a Rugby player earning 4 caps for Wales.

Skull Murphy – English wrestler, Made his TV debut in 1968 as Steve Young. Morphed into the heel character Skull Murphy. Held the World of Sport Tag Team titles with Fit Finlay. Was part of the first WWF tour of the UK when he teamed with Mark Rocco and Fit Finlay to defeat Dusty Wolfe, Al Perez and Tim Horner. Wrestled on the UK scene for over 30 years.

Spinner McKenzie – Scottish wrestler. Turned professional as a teenager in 1984. Found success as a tag team partner for Big Daddy. Continued to wrestling across the UK after the end of wrestling on ITV. Had a hand in training many of Scotland’s pros of today including Drew Galloway and Chris Renfrew.

Steve Casey – Irish wrestler, began wrestling in 1936. Defeated Irish Canadian champion Paul Duveen in a non-title match. On February 11 1938 defeated Lou Thesz to lift the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. Stripped of the title in the year for being out of the country. AWA continue to recognise him as AWA World Champion. He would go on to hold the AWA World Heavyweight title a total of five times even serving in World War II whilst still champion. Retired in 1947 aged 38. Immortalised in statue form in his home of Sneem, Ireland.

Steve Grey – English wrestler, highly respected Lightweight. Made his TV debut in 1971. 7 time British Light Heavyweight Champion. Won the European Light Heavyweight title in 1988. Would win the title a total of four times. Wrestled for the FWA and The Wrestling Channel Supershow in the 2000s. *Finalist in 2018

Steve Logan (I) – English wrestler, longterm partner of fellow rulebreaker Mick McManus. Considered to be the far more versatile of the two wrestlers. Very rarely lost when he did was usually by disqualification due to his heel tactics. Won the British Heavy Middleweight title in 1975 which he held for a few months. Greatly feared by wrestling fans of the 60s and 70s

Steve Logan (II) – English wrestler, unlike his namesake was a longterm babyface. Was considered one of the top young prospects of the 1980s. Wrestled briefly for Stampede Wrestling. Founded K-Star Promotions where he trains wrestlers and Kick Boxers

Steve Lynskey – Wrestler, booker, referee and manager. Was the lead heel manager for UWA on Live TV managing names such as Drew McDonald, Jonny Storm and Mad Dog McPhee. Was head referee for FWA and the UK Supershows. Refereed for TNA during its UK tours. Works as a booking agent for many talents. Referee for the World of Sport return in 2016.

Steve Veidor – English wrestler, Known as the Handsome Heart Throb. Won the Royal Albert Hall Trophy on three occasions. Won the European Union Heavyweight Championship in 1978. Toured NJPW in 1975 where he battled legends Antonio Inoki and Strong Kobayashi. Also appeared on television game shows, commercials and films including the cult film The Touchables (1968)

Steve Wright – Billed as Wonderboy Wright when he broke through the ranks aged 16. Considered to be the pioneer of the 1970s ‘Speed revolution’ which would create stars Dynamite Kid, Davey Boy Smith and Mark Rocco. Later in his career took on the persona of Bull Blitzer a German villain winning the World Mid-Heavyweight title in 1984 from Marty Jones. Settled in Germany where he had his son Alex who would wrestle for WCW from 1994 until its closure.

Stevie Knight – English wrestler, made his debut in 1991 aged 14. In 1997 embarked on a tour of Europe and the Middle East. Worked for UWA which aired on Live TV winning the companies Television title. Entered semi-retirement after an injury in America. Opened The Stevie Knight School of Wrestling in 2000. Returned to the ring full time in 2003 winning the BCW Championship. Won the FWA Tag Team titles with Alex Shane. Won the XWA British Heavyweight title in 2008. Retired in 2009.

Sue Brittain - English Wrestling. Known as the first Lady of British Wrestling. Took the Greater London Council to court to remove the ban on Women’s wrestling in public, winning the case opening up the floodgates for wrestlers such as Mitzi Mueller and Klondyke Kate. Held the British Wrestling Alliance almost exclusively from 1970 until her retirement in 1982 having only lost it for 10 days during this period. Death in 2013 was reported upon by multiple news outlets including the BBC who called her the Emmeline Pankhurst of British Wrestling. *First Year on List 

Sweet Saraya – English wrestler, became involved in the wrestling scene in 1990. Originally making costumes and working ring crew. Later became a manager for Ricky Knight. Made her in ring debut in 1993 under the name Saraya. Wrestled for multiple promotions across the UK including All-Star, WAW and FWA. Winning multiple title along the way. Made her Shimmer debut in 2011. Where she would team with her daughter the future WWE’s Paige. After turning on her daughter she would win the Shimmer title in 2012. *Finalist in 2017 & 2018

Ted Beresford – English wrestler. Pre-war wrestler who turned to promoting once peace had broken out. Organised wrestling tournaments for the army during the Second World War. Retired in 1952 and became one of the founding fathers of Joint Promotions. As a promoter usually had access to the bigger names of the day.

Ted Betley – Began wrestling whilst in Royal Air Force during the Second World War. Following the war could be seen wrestling across the country against opponents such as Billy Joyce, Count Bartelli and Jack Beaumont. Retired in the early 1960s. Became an acclaimed trainer training the like of Dynamite Kid, Davey Boy Smith and Steve Wright for the ring.

Ted Heath – English wrestler. Could be found inhabiting the ring in the 60s and 70s. Wrestled under a mask as The Red Scorpion. Without the masked formed a successful tag team with Alan Dennison. Moved to the United States where he became known as Texas Ted Heath and later formed a tag team with fellow Brit John Foley known as The British Bulldogs.

Thunder (Darren Walsh) – English wrestler, son of Tony Banger Walsh. Known as The Monster of the Midlands. Wrestled for FWA as part of British Uprising III. EWP World Heavyweight Champion three times out of Germany. Wrestled across Europe. Regular for All Star Wrestling where he has held the ASW Superslam Championship.

Tibor Szakacs – Hungarian wrestler, came to UK in 1956. Won a record 5 of the prestigious Royal Albert Hall Trophy tournaments. The 1963 version was presented to him by Prince Phillip. Known for his scientific in ring style. Formed tag teams with Steve Viedor, his brother Peter and Henri Pierlot. Career went into serious decline after an eye injury in a match with Kendo Nagasaki

Tim Geoghegan – Irish wrestler. Claimed to be the inventor of the Sleeper hold. Would demonstrate his hold to unwitting fans prior to his contests. Most of his career was spent in North America where he once took Lou Thesz to a draw. A main stay of Stampede Wrestling in the 50s up until the 1970s. Won the NWA Canadian Tag Team titles alongside Pat Barrett.

Tiny Carr – First referee to make a name of himself on Television. Known for standing up to the villainous wrestlers despite being outsized. Regular at the Royal Albert Hall. Was the referee between the big Jackie Pallo-Mick McManus match of 1963. Official for the first ever tag team match to be televised. Left the wrestling business in 1969.

Tom Thumb – Stood barely five foot tall, said to be Britain’s shortest wrestler. Very popular with fans due to the comedy brought to the ring often humiliating the heels. Teamed with Big Daddy and Catweazle in memorable tandems.

Tommy Mann- English wrestler, took up the pro game in the 1930s. Beat Jack Dale to become the first ever Lord Mountevans British Middleweight Champion in 1952 and held the title until he vacated it due to injury. In total held the British title 8 times. Was thrice the holder of the World Middleweight title twice in the 50s and once in the 60s. Crossover appeal led to film and television work including the Benny Hill Show.

Tony Charles – Welsh wrestler, almost immediately propelled into battles with the likes of Mick McManus. Challenged for gold in multiple weight classes without any luck. Made more than 70 televised appearances more than big names Kendo Nagasaki, Giant Haystacks and Fit Finlay. Moved to the United States where he won a multitude of titles across numerous territories including NWA Mid-America Heavyweight title, 12 Junior Heavyweight title wins and seven title reigns as part of a tag team.

Tony Scarlo – English Wrestler, the Cockney Kid. Turned professional in 1955. Joined Joint Promotions in 1961. First television match came in 1963. Lightweight contender in the 1960s and tag partner of his son Dino in the 1970s. Tony’s 1977 match with The Dynamite Kid is still much talked about to this day. Still has a presence on shows ran today.

Tony St Clair – English wrestler, Made his debut in 1966. Originally part of a tag team with his brother Roy. Turned to singles competition in the 70s. Won the British Heavyweight Championship in 1977. And beat Giant Haystacks for his second reign. Jumped to All Star in 1982 taking the British Heavyweight title with him. Help the British Heavyweight title 4 times. 5 x CWA British Commonwealth Champion out of Germany. Worked for NJPW from 1979-1995 taking part in the Top of the Super Juniors in 1988.

Tony Walsh – Rugby shirted English wrestler, closely associated with Big Daddy as he was often selected when Daddy needed a wrestler to bump around for him. Walsh’s energetic bumps were vital to hiding the limitations of Big Daddy. Competed in Wrestler vs Boxer matches. Top heel whose main role was to help the babyfaces shine

Ulf Herman – German Wrestler, Began wrestling in 1989. Began to tour the UK shortly afterwards. In 1995 was selected to wrestle The Ultimate Warrior in a one-off match. Joined ECW where he was a part of the Wright Connection and Full Blooded Italians. Wrestled on ECW PPVs. Back in Europe won the FWA Tag Team titles with Alex Shane and Drew McDonald. Later won the 1PW World Heavyweight Championship.

Vic Faulkner – 2nd generation English wrestler. Very popular with the fans. Came into wrestling in the 1960 aged 17 as part of the new speed revolution. Known for his playing dead routine where he would trick the villain before springing to his feet. Holder of both the British Middleweight title and the European Middleweight title. Tag team he formed with his brother Bert Royal who were arguably the greatest tag team of their era and topped wrestlinghertiage.co.uk’s list in this category

Wayne Bridges – English wrestler trained by Mike Marino made his debut in 1964. Was Kendo Nagasaki’s first Cup Final Day opponent on television. Won the World Heavyweight title in the Royal Albert Hall from Spiro Arion in 1979 bringing the title back to the UK for the first time in 60 years. In June 1981 would regain the title from the Mississippi Mauler in Wembley Arena. One of a handful of men to defeat Mike Marino. Often selected to represent Britain against foreign opponents.

 

[AJSTYLES]

As a reminder here are the names of those already inducted:

Class of 2017

William Regal

Mick McManus

Mark Rocco

Kent Walton

Kendo Nagasaki

Giant Haystacks

The Dynamite Kid

Davey Boy Smith

Big Daddy

Brian Dixon

 

Class of 2018

Adrian Street & Miss Linda

Billy Robinson

Doug Williams

Fit Finlay

Jack Dale & Les Martin

Jackie Pallo

Johnny Saint

Klondyke Kate

Marty Jones

Robbie Brookside

Max Crabtree

[tiger_rick]

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[HarmonicGenerator]

List sent. I enjoy doing this every year!

[AJSTYLES]

Thanks to everyone who has voted so far! Remember 5 more days to get your nominations in!

[AJSTYLES]

Thanks for all the votes so far!

Don't forget there is little over 24 hours to get your votes in. So get voting if you havent done so already to ensure your guys make the final stage with a chance to make the UKFF Hall of Fame

[AJSTYLES]

Final reminder to get your nominations in before midnight tonight. Any submissions after this time will not be counted

[AJSTYLES]

Thanks to everyone who has voted so far. There is a couple of names at the top who look sure to go in. Close at the bottom though so keep those votes coming in.

Remember you have until the end of the weekend to send your votes in and get your guys into the UKFF Hall of Fame