Bruno Sammartino, a legendary star in pro wrestling during the 60's and 70's died on Wednesday. He was 82 years old. He came to prominence in 1963 when he became the World Champion of the World Wide Wrestling Federation, the precursor to WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment). The World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF) was owned by Vincent J. McMahon, the father of current owner and WWE Chairman, Vince McMahon. Due to his muscular physique, Vincent J. McMahon marketed Bruno to the New York audience as a superhero.
McMahon made the fans believe that Bruno could conquer all the different villains that were in wrestling at that time including foreign menaces like Ivan Koloff and giants such as Ernie Ladd and Bill Watts. Bruno Sammartino's first title reign lasted from 1963 to 1971 and for over seven years fans came by the thousands to see Bruno defend his championship in Madison Square Garden. Bruno Sammartino appealed to everyone no matter their race or social status. In 1971 Bruno would lose the title to Ivan Koloff in front of a shocked MSG crowd. He would regain the title in 1973 and hold it until 1977 when he lost it to Superstar Billy Graham.
During the 1960''s and 1970's pro wrestling was built on regional territories and the WWWF was the powerhouse in the Northeast with New York and Madison Square Garden being the mecca of it all. Bruno Sammartino was the biggest star of that era. He paved the way for stars such as Hulk Hogan, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and The Rock to take the WWE to even greater heights. Bruno Sammartino was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2013.
Thank you Mr. Sammartino. Your contributions to pro wrestling will never be forgotten.
Class Dismissed,
THE PROFESSOR
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