This is a shocker.
Word just came over the wire of the passing of WWE Hall of Famer Bruno Sammartino at age 82.
Born in a small town in Italy in 1935, Bruno emigrated to the US, and found his fame with the then-World Wide Wrestling Federation as a 2-time World champion, his last reign ending at the hands of Superstar Billy Graham in 1977. Bruno rarely competed on television, and when he did, it was usually, and understandably, a main event.
Sammartino initially retired in 1981, then made a brief comeback to fight alongside his son, David, in the mid-80's, before swapping his tights & boots for an announcer's blazer. However, he had a falling out with Vince McMahon during the late 80's over the direction of the company, and some thought he'd never return. That is, until he was inducted into the Hall of Fame just a few short years ago. Sammartino's last appearance on WWE-TV was to induct his former protege and nemesis, Larry Zbyszko, into the Hall in 2015.
From 1974, here's Bruno, in a non-title match with another future Hall of Famer, Mr. Fuji, managed by the Grand Wizard of Wrestling (Ernie Roth).
Today, you wouldn't see a match end in a pinfall after a mere back body drop. That's too simple for today's promoters, McMahon included.
Rest in peace, Bruno.
2 comments:
AWW! I remember Bruno, although moreso for his appearances in commercials for Bally's Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City.
So sad, but 82 isn't a bad run - especially for someone who spent so much time in the wrestling ring.
I'm going to see if I can find his appearance on Greatest Sports Legends w/Tom Seaver for use down the road, just for kicks.
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