In Memoriam

On this day in 1997, the wrestling world lost British legend Big Daddy of a stroke at the age of 67. Real name Shirley Crabtree, he began wrestling in the 50′s and 60′s under several heel gimmicks, and was moderately successful, winning two titles before quitting wrestling out of frustration at the politics within British wrestling at the time. 15 years later, wrestling in the UK was quickly growing in popularity due to the ‘World of Sport’ TV show, and Crabtree was brought back into the limelight by his booker brother Max, taking the Big Daddy name that he is remembered for to this day. At the height of his popularity, he was even approached to front a children’s TV show, but backed out at the last minute; older British readers may remember that it became ‘The Saturday Show’ with Isla St Clair and Tommy Boyd. Big Daddy retired from the ring in 1987, having inadvertently caused the death of fellow wrestler Mal ‘King Kong’ Kirk. Daddy hit Kirk with his Big Splash finisher, not knowing that Kirk had a serious heart condition, and Kirk died en route to the hospital. Daddy was cleared of any responsibility, but blamed himself for the incident and stepped away from the ring. As a nod to his popularity, Big Daddy had several high profile fans, including British TV legend (and former wrestler himself) Jimmy Saville, as well as former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and, reportedly, the Queen!

Good post. Legend in the ring.

Fantastic post. RIP