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Old Pro Werstlers Don’t Just Fade Away
Their fate is often far worse.
I’m not a fan of pro wrestling. I have had some casual exposure to the venue at various times in my life. When I was around eight years old, I’d watch it with my grandpa. The main bad guy in the region we were at was Fritz Von Erich. He of the mightily feared Iron Claw.
At that time the “combatants” would do the best out of three falls. Fritz would win the first one. Then the Good Guy De jour would win the second fall, before succumbing to the menacing Iron Claw of Von Erich in the tiebreaker.
My grandpa did what he could to help the good guy. He shuffled his feet to the point that the linoleum in front of his chair was worn out. But to no avail. He too, was powerless to stop the Iron Claw.
Fast forward about 20 years
I was working at the Titus County Civic Center in Mt. Pleasant Texas during the 80s. The decision was made to let a pro wrestling outfit have an event there. The event featured one of the Von Erichs. I believe it was Kerry. He had the best hair of the family and was the most popular.
The event was a success for the promoters, but a disaster for the Civic Center employees. When it comes describing the fans at the event, I believe the term “rabid” is accurate. As is the term…
