The Wrestling Observer Newsletter (WON) Hall of Fame is a professional wrestling and mixed martial arts hall of fame that recognizes people who make significant contributions to their professions. It was founded in 1996 by Dave Meltzer, editor of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Like many other wrestling halls of fame, such as the WWE, TNA, ROH and WCW halls of fame, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame is not contained in a building, and there are no ceremonies for inductions other than a highly detailed biographical documentation of their career in the newsletter. Inductees include wrestlers/fighters, managers, promoters, trainers, and commentators. On select occasions, groups, either tag teams, trios, or quartets, have been inducted rather than the individual members of the group. This first occurred in 1996, when The Fabulous Kangaroos and The Road Warriors entered the hall. The Fabulous Freebirds, The Midnight Express, The Rock 'n' Roll Express, The Assassins, The Holy Demon Army, The Sharpe Brothers, Los Misioneros de la Muerte, and Los Brazos among others all also entered as groups. Occasionally entire wrestling families have been inducted into the hall. This first occurred in 1996 when The Dusek Family entered the hall; in 2022, the five man familial team of Los Villanos was inducted.
Starting in 2022, it became possible for a wrestler to be placed in the Hall of Fame multiple times, much like inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. So far, four people have achieved this double honor: Villano III, Argentina Rocca, Jack Brisco, and Jackie Sato. Each are inducted as a singles performer and a team member (Villano III as part of Los Villanos, Rocca as part of Rocca and Perez, Jack Brisco as part of the Brisco Brothers, and Jackie Sato as part of Beauty Pair).
Meltzer began the Hall of Fame by choosing a list of 122 inaugural inductees in 1996. Since then, wrestlers from past and present, others employed in the professional wrestling industry, and wrestling journalists and historians have been selected by Meltzer to cast secret ballots to determine annual groups of inductees. Voting criteria include the length of time spent in wrestling, historical significance, ability to attract viewers, and wrestling ability.[1] Inductees must have at least 15 years of experience in the wrestling business or be over 35 years old and have 10 years of experience. To gain membership in the hall, potential inductees must receive 60% support on the ballots from their geographic region.[2] Any person that gets less than 10% of the vote is eliminated from the ballot. If a person fails to get inducted 15 years after being put on the ballot, they must get 50% of the vote or be eliminated.[3] There are 255 inductees, including the multiple teams, trios, and stables.
In 2008, a recall vote was held asking if 2003 inductee Chris Benoit, who killed his wife and son before committing suicide in June 2007, should remain in the hall. To have Benoit removed, Meltzer required that 60% of voters must agree with the proposal.[4] Although the majority voted for Benoit's removal, they only represented 53.6% of the votes, falling short of the number required. Benoit remains on the list of inductees.[5]
Inductees
Footnotes
- ↑ According to his autobiography, Flair does not know his actual birth name. His listed birth name was given to him upon his adoption as an infant.
- ↑ Austin's actual birth name is Steven James Anderson. His name was changed to Williams in early childhood when he was adopted by his stepfather.[211] He has since legally changed his name to Steve Austin.
References
- General
- "Wrestling Observer Hall of Fame". Pro Wrestling Illustrated. Archived from the original on 2017-09-02. Retrieved 2009-05-10.
- Specific
- ↑ Hubbard, Nathan. "The Not the Wrestling Observer Hall of Fame Hall of Fame". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Retrieved 2009-05-09.
- ↑ Dove, Jeuron. "Jeuron Dove talks the Hall of Fame". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Retrieved 2009-07-03.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Meltzer, Dave (November 9, 2015). "November 9, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2015 Hall of Fame Issue". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Campbell, California: 1. ISSN 1083-9593.
- ↑ Wahlers, Dan. "Dan Wahlers on Chris Benoit and the Hall of Fame". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Retrieved 2009-05-09.
- ↑ Meltzer, Dave, Wrestling Observer Newsletter, September 8, 2008, p. 6.
- 1 2 3 Nevada, Vance. "Abdullah the Butcher". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2013-01-15. Retrieved 2009-01-30.
- ↑ Reynaga, Ricardo Rocha (1993). Conversaciones para gente grande. Aguilar. p. 285.
- ↑ "Official Ratings". Pro Wrestling Illustrated. London Publishing Co. 19 (2): 65. February 1999. ISSN 1043-7576.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2000). "Mexico: National Middleweight Championship". Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. p. 392. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- ↑ Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2000). "Mexico: National Tag Team Titles". Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. pp. 396–397. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- ↑ Hornbaker, Tim (2006). National Wrestling Alliance: The Untold Story of the Monopoly That Strangled Pro Wrestling. ECW Press. p. 192. ISBN 1-55022-741-6.
- ↑ "Andre the Giant". World Wrestling Entertainment. Archived from the original on 2008-01-10. Retrieved 2009-07-03.
- ↑ Willoughby, David P. (1970). The Super-athletes. A. S. Barnes. p. 274. ISBN 0-498-06651-7.
- ↑ Pantozzi, John. "Giant Baba". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-02-01. Retrieved 2009-01-31.
- ↑ Oliver, Greg (2004-09-19). "Jim Barnett's Australian legacy". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2012-07-17. Retrieved 2009-01-30.
- ↑ Rhodes, Dusty; George Steinbrenner; Howard Brody (2006). Dusty: Reflections of an American Dream. Sports Publishing LLC. p. 103. ISBN 1-58261-907-7.
- 1 2 Patrick, Nikki (2008-07-23). "Military Teacher". Pittsburg Morning Sun. Archived from the original on 2009-09-24. Retrieved 2009-01-30.
- 1 2 "History of NWA Southwest/NWA Texas Titles". NWA Southwest. Archived from the original on 2009-03-08. Retrieved 2009-01-30.
- 1 2 Tenay, Mike. "Dick Beyer". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2008-08-20. Retrieved 2009-01-30.
- ↑ "Dick "Destroyer" Beyer". Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame. Archived from the original on 2008-10-25. Retrieved 2009-01-30.
- ↑ "Fred Blassie". Pro Wrestling Illustrated. Archived from the original on 2008-11-21. Retrieved 2009-01-30.
- ↑ "Hispanic Link Weekly Report". 1 (12). Hispanic Link News Service. 21 November 1983: 16.
{{cite journal}}
: Cite journal requires|journal=
(help) - 1 2 3 4 5 Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2000). "Mexico: National Welterweight Championship". Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. p. 392. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- ↑ Schramm, Chris (2007-10-04). "Karloff Lagarde dead at 79". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2012-07-23. Retrieved 2009-01-30.
- ↑ Beale, Lewis (2006-05-28). "Who's That Masked Man and Where Did He Learn to Wrestle Like That?". The New York Times. Retrieved 2009-01-30.
- ↑ Schire, George P. "Nick Bockwinkel". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2012-07-15. Retrieved 2009-01-30.
- ↑ Oliver, Greg. "Paul Boesch and Houston's wrestling legacy". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2012-07-13. Retrieved 2009-02-01.
- ↑ "Bobo Brazil dies at age 74". SLAM! Wrestling. 1998-01-23. Retrieved 2009-01-31.
- ↑ Davies, Ross (2001). Bobo Brazil. Rosen Publishing Group. p. 11. ISBN 0-8239-3431-4.
- ↑ "Bobo Brazil". World Wrestling Entertainment. Archived from the original on 2008-01-07. Retrieved 2009-07-03.
- ↑ Hornbaker, Tim (2006). National Wrestling Alliance: The Untold Story of the Monopoly That Strangled Pro Wrestling. ECW Press. p. 323. ISBN 1-55022-741-6.
- ↑ "Jack Brisco". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2009-07-03.
- 1 2 3 "National Heavyweight Champion". National Wrestling Alliance. Archived from the original on 2008-04-07. Retrieved 2009-01-31.
- ↑ Babinsack, Joe (2007-08-28). "Wrestling Observer reviews Brody". ECW Press. Archived from the original on 2008-08-07. Retrieved 2009-01-23.
- ↑ Slagle, Steve. ""King Kong" Bruiser Brody". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-04-09. Retrieved 2009-01-31.
- 1 2 Malnoske, Andrew. "Mildred Burke". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-02-01. Retrieved 2009-01-31.
- ↑ Groubet, Lourdes; Carlos Monsiváis; Gabriel Rodríguez (2006). Espectacular de lucha Libre/Wrestling Spectacular. UNAM. p. 60. ISBN 970-32-3734-7.
With more than eleven Universal Wrestling Association (UWA) heavyweight titles...
- ↑ "Negro Casas ya es rudo" (in Spanish). El Sol de Cuautla. 2008-06-22. Retrieved 2009-01-31.
- ↑ Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2006). "Mexico: UWA Lightweight Title". Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. p. 398. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- ↑ Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2006). "Mexico: UWA Middleweight Title". Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. p. 395. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- 1 2 Oliver, Greg. "From the Olympics to the Pros". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-01.
- 1 2 Meltzer, Dave (2004). Tributes II: Remembering More of the World's Greatest Professional Wrestlers. Sports Publishing LLC. p. 55. ISBN 1-58261-817-8.
- ↑ Funk, Terry; Mick Foley; Scott Williams (2006). Terry Funk: More Than Just Hardcore. Sports Publishing LLC. p. 156. ISBN 1-58261-991-3.
- ↑ Waldman, Jon (2005-07-08). "Jim Cornette released from WWE". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-01.
- ↑ Sullivan, Patricia (2005-10-28). "Wrestler Reggie 'The Crusher' Lisowski Dies". The Washington Post. Retrieved 2009-07-11.
- ↑ Slagle, Steve. "The Crusher". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-02-21. Retrieved 2009-02-01.
- ↑ "AWA Tag Team Title Holders". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2016-03-03. Retrieved 2009-02-01.
- ↑ Milner, John M. "Ted DiBiase". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-01-02.
- ↑ Slagle, Steve. "Ted DiBiase". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2008-08-19. Retrieved 2009-02-01.
- ↑ Hornbaker, Tim (2006). National Wrestling Alliance: The Untold Story of the Monopoly That Strangled Pro Wrestling. ECW Press. p. 238. ISBN 1-55022-741-6.
- ↑ Conner, Floyd (2001). Wrestling's Most Wanted: The Top 10 Book of Pro Wrestling's Outrageous Performers, Punishing Piledrivers, and Other Oddities. Brassey's. p. 49. ISBN 1-57488-308-9.
- ↑ Slagle, Steve. "Dick the Bruiser". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2008-12-25. Retrieved 2009-02-01.
- 1 2 "Finishes (RIP) - 2008". Cauliflower Alley Club. Archived from the original on 2009-05-28. Retrieved 2009-06-29.
- ↑ Schramm, Chris (2008-07-30). "Mexican great Alfonso Dantés dies". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-01.
- 1 2 Oliver, Greg; Steven Johnson. "The Dusek Riot Squad". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2008-08-20. Retrieved 2009-02-01.
- 1 2 Slagle, Steve. "Dynamite Kid". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-01-18. Retrieved 2009-02-01.
- ↑ Oliver, Greg. "The Dynamite Kid". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-01.
- 1 2 Oliver, Greg (2000-01-24). "Fabulous Kangaroo Al Costello dead". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2012-07-20. Retrieved 2009-06-30.
- ↑ "Ex-Constable For Trial On Patricide Charge". The Sydney Morning Herald. 1951-08-15. p. 5.
- 1 2 3 4 5 Will, Gary. "Deceased Pro Wrestlers". Gary Will's Wrestling History. Archived from the original on 2015-05-23. Retrieved 2009-02-06.
- 1 2 Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2006). "(Memphis, Nashville) Tennessee: NWA World Tag Team Title [Nick Gulas & Roy Welsch]". Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. pp. 191–193. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- ↑ Mooneyham, Mike (2008-08-24). "Seemed like old times at Fanfest". The Post and Courier. Retrieved 2009-02-01.
- ↑ Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2006). "(Memphis, Nashville) Tennessee: Southern Tag Team Title [Roy Welsch & Nick Gulas, Jerry Jarrett from 1977]". Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. pp. 185–189. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- ↑ Hornbaker, Tim (2006). National Wrestling Alliance: The Untold Story of the Monopoly That Strangled Pro Wrestling. ECW Press. p. 333. ISBN 1-55022-741-6.
- ↑ "Ric Flair's Title History". World Wrestling Entertainment. Archived from the original on 2016-01-12. Retrieved 2009-07-03.
- ↑ "Tatsumi Fujinami". New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2011-07-14. Retrieved 2009-02-03.
- 1 2 "History of the IWGP Heavyweight title". New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2009-03-21. Retrieved 2009-02-03.
- 1 2 Westcott, Brian. "Dory Funk, Jr". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-02-01. Retrieved 2009-02-03.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Meltzer, Dave (October 25, 2010). "Wrestling Observer Hall of Fame". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Campbell, CA: 19–25. ISSN 1083-9593.
- ↑ Slagle, Steve. "Dory Funk, Jr". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-04-03. Retrieved 2009-02-03.
- ↑ Davies, Ross (2001). The Funk Family. Rosen Publishing Group. p. 95. ISBN 0-8239-3437-3.
- ↑ "History of the World Tag Team Championship: Cactus Jack and Chainsaw Charlie's first reign". World Wrestling Entertainment. Archived from the original on 2005-06-30. Retrieved 2009-02-03.
- ↑ Westcott, Brian. "Terry Funk". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-02-01. Retrieved 2009-02-03.
- ↑ Westcott, Brian. "Verne Gagne". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-05-29. Retrieved 2009-02-03.
- 1 2 Gallipoli, Thomas M. (2008-03-11). "Deceased Wrestlers for 1999". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 2009-02-03.
Cavernario Galindo I, Mexico-National Light Heavyweight Champion
- ↑ Lentz III, Harris M. (2001). Science Fiction, Horror & Fantasy Film and Television Credits: Filmography, Volume 2. McFarland. p. 1485. ISBN 0-7864-0951-7.
- ↑ Griffin, Johnny. "Ed Don George". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2008-08-20. Retrieved 2009-02-03.
- 1 2 Malnoske, Andrew. "Gorgeous George". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-07-05. Retrieved 2009-02-04.
- ↑ Malnoske, Andrew. "Frank Gotch". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-02-02. Retrieved 2009-02-04.
- 1 2 Oates, Robert K. "Karl Gotch". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-05-29. Retrieved 2009-02-04.
- ↑ Schramm, Chris. "Superstar Billy Graham: Ring legend". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-04.
- ↑ "Superstar Billy Graham". World Wrestling Entertainment. Archived from the original on 2008-01-09. Retrieved 2009-07-03.
- 1 2 3 "Pat Patterson". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2013-01-15. Retrieved 2009-02-04.
- 1 2 Slagle, Steve. "Eddie Graham". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-02-21. Retrieved 2009-02-04.
- ↑ Groubet, Lourdes; Carlos Monsiváis; Gabriel Rodríguez (2006). Espectacular de lucha Libre/ Wrestling Spectacular. UNAM. p. 53. ISBN 970-32-3734-7.
- ↑ Groubet, Lourdes; Carlos Monsiváis; Gabriel Rodríguez (2006). Espectacular de lucha Libre/ Wrestling Spectacular. UNAM. p. 71. ISBN 970-32-3734-7.
- 1 2 "Gory Guerrero". Pro Wrestling Illustrated. Archived from the original on 2009-01-16. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- ↑ Malnoske, Andrew. "George Hackenschmidt". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-02-01. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- 1 2 Nevada, Vance. "Stan Hansen". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- ↑ Emelett, Ed (September 1995). "Japan's Triple Crown: "It's the Most Important Title in the World!"". Pro Wrestling Illustrated. London Publishing Co.: 28. ISSN 1043-7576.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 "History Of The WWE Championship". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- 1 2 3 4 5 "History of the World Tag Team Championship". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- 1 2 3 4 "History of the WCW World Championship". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- ↑ Will, Gary. "Stu Hart". Canadian Pro Wrestling Page of Fame. Archived from the original on 2009-02-20. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- 1 2 Milner, John. "Bobby Heenan". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2015-04-18. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- ↑ Slagle, Steve. "Danny Hodge". Professional wrestling online museum. Archived from the original on 2008-03-21. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- ↑ Milner, John. "Hulk Hogan". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- ↑ Miyamoto, Koji. "Antonio Inoki". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2011-05-14. Retrieved 2009-07-01.
- 1 2 Slagle, Steve. "Antonio Inoki". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2007-09-11. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- ↑ "Maximino Linares Moreno, el "Rayo de Jalisco"" (in Spanish). El Occidental. 2007-02-26. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- 1 2 Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2000). "Mexico: National Tag Team Championship". Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. pp. 393–394. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- 1 2 3 Slagle, Steve. "El Santo". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2008-12-24. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- ↑ Cotter, Bobb (2005). The Mexican Masked Wrestler and Monster Filmography. McFarland & Co. p. 27. ISBN 0-7864-2022-7.
- ↑ Rauer, John E. ""Rough Tom" Jenkins". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2008-08-20. Retrieved 2009-02-05.
- 1 2 Will, Gary. "Don Leo Jonathan". Canadian Pro Wrestling Page of Fame. Archived from the original on 2009-01-01. Retrieved 2009-02-06.
- ↑ Will, Gary. "Gene Kiniski". Canadian Pro Wrestling Page of Fame. Archived from the original on 2008-12-25. Retrieved 2009-02-06.
- ↑ "Australian Tag". Time. 1943-03-08. Archived from the original on December 14, 2008. Retrieved 2009-02-06.
- ↑ "Killer Kowalski". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-06-29.
- ↑ Oliver, Greg (2008-08-30). "Killer Kowalski dies". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-06.
- ↑ Slagle, Steve. "Ernie Ladd". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2008-03-21. Retrieved 2009-02-06.
- ↑ Blassie, "Classy" Freddie; Keith Elliot Greenberg (2004). Listen, You Pencil Neck Geeks. Pocket. p. 74. ISBN 0-7434-6317-X.
- ↑ Milner, John. "Jerry Lawler". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2015-04-18. Retrieved 2009-02-06.
- ↑ Slagle, Steve. "Ed "Strangler" Lewis". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-09-15. Retrieved 2009-09-18.
- 1 2 Malnoske, Andrew. "Jim Londos". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame. Archived from the original on 2008-08-20. Retrieved 2009-02-06.
- ↑ Hornbaker, Tim (2006). National Wrestling Alliance: The Untold Story of the Monopoly That Strangled Pro Wrestling. ECW Press. p. 304. ISBN 1-55022-741-6.
- ↑ Groubet, Lourdes; Carlos Monsiváis; Gabriel Rodríguez (2006). Espectacular de lucha Libre/Wrestling Spectacular. UNAM. p. 285. ISBN 970-32-3734-7.
- ↑ "History". New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2003-06-28. Retrieved 2009-02-06.
- 1 2 "Wrestling History". Pro Wrestling Illustrated. Archived from the original on 2008-07-05. Retrieved 2009-05-06.
- ↑ Quadros, Stephen (July 2000). "Henderson Wins, Gracie Loses in RINGS Tourney". Black Belt. 38 (7): 16. 0277-3066.
- ↑ "Ladies Honorees". Cauliflower Alley Club. Archived from the original on 2007-12-05. Retrieved 2009-02-06.
- ↑ Oliver, Greg (2004-07-03). "KC Houston: One tough mother". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-07.
- ↑ "Japanese trip review". Wrestling Observer/Figure Four Online. Retrieved 2009-02-07.
- 1 2 Slagle, Steve. "Mil Mascaras". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-04-01. Retrieved 2009-02-07.
- 1 2 3 Spears, Jim (2005-01-04). "Women's wrestlers today are tougher, better". The Times and Democrat. Retrieved 2009-02-07.
- ↑ Nevada, Vance. "Velvet McIntyre". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2015-04-19. Retrieved 2009-02-07.
- ↑ Will, Gary. "Title History: British Empire Title". Gary Will's Toronto Wrestling History. Archived from the original on 2008-05-09. Retrieved 2009-02-07.
- ↑ Westcott, Brian. "Gordon Solie". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2005-10-27. Retrieved 2009-02-07.
- ↑ Hornbaker, Tim (2006). National Wrestling Alliance: The Untold Story of the Monopoly That Strangled Pro Wrestling. ECW Press. p. 222. ISBN 1-55022-741-6.
- ↑ "Vince McMahon Sr". World Wrestling Entertainment. Archived from the original on 2008-01-07. Retrieved 2009-07-03.
- ↑ "History of the ECW Championship: Mr. McMahon's first reign". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2009-02-07.
- ↑ Milner, John. "Vince McMahon". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-07.
- ↑ Kroepfl, Thomas. "The Forgotten Famous". Cauliflower Alley Club. Archived from the original on 2008-01-13. Retrieved 2009-02-07.
- 1 2 "Remembering those we lost in 2003". SLAM! Wrestling. 2004-01-04. Retrieved 2009-02-07.
- ↑ Molinaro, John F. (2000-06-13). "Mitsuharu Misawa leaves All Japan". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-08.
- ↑ Molinaro, John F. (2000-06-19). "Misawa knocks All-Japan off TV". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-08.
- ↑ Griffin, Johnny. "Joe "Toots" Mondt". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2014-12-15. Retrieved 2009-02-08.
- ↑ Gallipoli, Thomas M. (2008-03-11). "List of Deceased Wrestlers for 1999". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 2009-02-08.
- ↑ Hornbaker, Tim (2006). National Wrestling Alliance: The Untold Story of the Monopoly That Strangled Pro Wrestling. ECW Press. p. 59. ISBN 1-55022-741-6.
- 1 2 "Bronko Nagurski". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-08.
- ↑ Bryla, Bob (2006-11-24). "PWHF announces 2007 induction class". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-08.
- 1 2 3 Gallipoli, Thomas M. (2007-09-01). "List of Deceased Wrestlers for 2006". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 2009-02-08.
- ↑ Williams, Scott E. (2007). Hardcore History: The Extremely Unauthorized Story of ECW. Sports Publishing LLC. pp. 11–12. ISBN 978-1-59670-225-7.
- 1 2 Nevada, Vance. "Roddy Piper". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on January 1, 2013. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- ↑ Beekman, Scott (2006). Ringside: A History of Professional Wrestling in America. Greenwood Publishing Group. p. 110. ISBN 0-275-98401-X.
- ↑ "Dusty Rhodes". World Wrestling Entertainment. Archived from the original on 2007-12-23. Retrieved 2009-07-03.
- 1 2 Slagle, Steve. "Rikidozan". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-02-02. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- 1 2 Oliver, Greg (2003-10-19). "Road Warrior Hawk dead at 45". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- ↑ "Yvon Robert". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- ↑ Nevada, Vance. "Angelo Mosca". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- ↑ Conner, Floyd (2001). Wrestling's Most Wanted: The Top 10 Book of Pro Wrestling's Outrageous Performers, Punishing Piledrivers, and Other Oddities. Brassey's. p. 131. ISBN 1-57488-308-9.
- ↑ Burke, Tom. "Antonino "Argentina" Rocca". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-05-29. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- ↑ "Antonino Rocca". World Wrestling Entertainment. Archived from the original on 2008-01-07. Retrieved 2009-07-03.
- ↑ Davies, Ross (2001). Buddy Rogers. Rosen Publishing Group. p. 14. ISBN 0-8239-3433-0.
- ↑ Oliver, Greg (2006-02-27). "Legends PPV tapes Sunday with a new/old voice". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- ↑ Nevada, Vance. "Bruno Sammartino". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- ↑ Hornbaker, Tim (2006). National Wrestling Alliance: The Untold Story of the Monopoly That Strangled Pro Wrestling. ECW Press. p. 97. ISBN 1-55022-741-6.
- 1 2 3 4 Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2000). "Mexico: National Light Heavyweight Championship". Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. p. 397. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- 1 2 Gallipoli, Thomas M. (2008-03-11). "List of Deceased Wrestlers for 1999". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
Jackie Sato, Naoko Sato, August 9, 1999, Stomach Cancer, age 41 -Lady Japanese wrestler, had memorable feud with Monster Ripper (Bertha Faye), two-time WWWA World Women's Champion.
- ↑ Meltzer, Dave (2004). Tributes II: Remembering More of the World's Greatest Professional Wrestlers. Sports Publishing LLC. p. 211. ISBN 1-58261-817-8.
- 1 2 "History of the Intercontinental Championship". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- 1 2 Gallipoli, Thomas M. (2007-11-02). "List of Deceased Wrestlers for 2003". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- ↑ "Pro wrestler Ed (The Sheik) Farhat, who fans loved to hate, dies at age 76". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- ↑ "SummerSlam history Observer special back issue order". Wrestling Observer. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- ↑ "Ringing in the new". The Times of India. 2003-09-14. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- ↑ Will, Gary. "Canadian Open Tag Team Title". Gary Will's Toronto Wrestling History. Archived from the original on 2012-02-13. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- ↑ Dara Singh: India's 'first all-action hero' BBC NEWS 2012-7-12
- ↑ Gallipoli, Thomas M. (2008-02-29). "List of Deceased Wrestlers for 2000". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 2009-02-09.
- ↑ Slagle, Steve. "Gordon Solie". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Retrieved 2009-07-03.
- 1 2 Groubet, Lourdes; Carlos Monsiváis; Gabriel Rodríguez (2006). Espectacular de lucha Libre/ Wrestling Spectacular. UNAM. p. 1981. ISBN 970-32-3734-7.
- ↑ Blassie, Fred; Keith Elliot Greenberg (2003). Listen, You Pencil Neck Geeks. Pocket Books. p. 168. ISBN 0-7434-6316-1.
- 1 2 Hornbaker, Tim (2006). National Wrestling Alliance: The Untold Story of the Monopoly That Strangled Pro Wrestling. ECW Press. pp. 339–340. ISBN 1-55022-741-6.
- 1 2 "History of the United States Championship". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2009-02-11.
- 1 2 3 Hornbaker, Tim (2006). National Wrestling Alliance: The Untold Story of the Monopoly That Strangled Pro Wrestling. ECW Press. pp. 5–6. ISBN 1-55022-741-6.
- ↑ "Ray Steele". International Wrestling Institute and Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-08-02. Retrieved 2009-02-11.
- ↑ Reynolds, R.D.; Bryan Alvarez (2004). WrestleCrap and Figure Four Weekly Present...The Death of WCW. ECW Press. p. 316. ISBN 1-55022-661-4.
- ↑ "NWA Six Man Tag Team Title History (from Wrestling Title Histories by Royal Duncan & Gary Will)". Solie's Title Histories. Retrieved 2009-02-12.
- 1 2 3 4 5 "Pro Wrestling Illustrated: 2008 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts". The ... Wrestling Almanac and Book of Facts. Sports & Entertainment Publications, LLC. 29 (5): 111–112. ISSN 1043-7576.
- ↑ Molinaro, John (1999-12-11). "Tenryu wins IWGP Heavyweight title". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-12.
- ↑ Molinaro, John F. (2000-10-28). "Tenryu wins Triple Crown". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-12.
- 1 2 Litsky, Frank (2002-05-08). "Lou Thesz, 86, Skilled Pro Wrestler, Dies". The New York Times. Retrieved 2009-02-13.
- 1 2 Slagle, Steve. "Tiger Mask". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-02-02. Retrieved 2009-02-13.
- 1 2 Slagle, Steve. "Jumbo Tsuruta". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-04-04. Retrieved 2009-02-13.
- ↑ Will, Gary. "Frank Tunney". Canadian Pro Wrestling Page of Fame. Archived from the original on 2014-12-30. Retrieved 2009-02-13.
- ↑ Nevada, Vance. "Mad Dog Vachon". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-13.
- ↑ Oliver, Greg; Steven Johnson (2007). The Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame: The Heels. ECW Press. p. 242. ISBN 978-1-55022-759-8.
- ↑ Molinaro, John F. (2000-01-05). "Vader rejuvenated in Japan". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-02-12.
- ↑ Molinaro, John F. (2001-04-24). "Johnny Valentine passes away". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2012-07-17. Retrieved 2009-01-23.
- ↑ Slagle, Steve. "Johnny Valentine". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2008-12-02. Retrieved 2009-02-12.
- 1 2 "Fritz Von Erich". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Retrieved 2009-02-13.
- ↑ Slagle, Steve. "Von Erich Family". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-02-24. Retrieved 2009-02-13.
- 1 2 Slagle, Steve. "Whipper Watson". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2010-12-01. Retrieved 2009-07-04.
- ↑ Watts, Bill; Scott Williams (2006). The Cowboy and the Cross: The Bill Watts Story: Rebellion, Wrestling and Redemption. ECW Press. p. 84. ISBN 1-55022-708-4.
- ↑ Watts, Bill; Scott Williams (2006). The Cowboy and the Cross: The Bill Watts Story: Rebellion, Wrestling and Redemption. ECW Press. p. 204. ISBN 1-55022-708-4.
- ↑ Hornbaker, Tim (2006). National Wrestling Alliance: The Untold Story of the Monopoly That Strangled Pro Wrestling. ECW Press. p. 361. ISBN 1-55022-741-6.
- ↑ "AJW World Singles Title History (from Wrestling Title Histories by Royal Duncan & Gary Will)". Solie's Title Histories. Retrieved 2009-02-11.
- ↑ Groubet, Lourdes; Carlos Monsiváis; Gabriel Rodríguez (2006). Espectacular de lucha Libre/ Wrestling Spectacular. UNAM. p. 80. ISBN 970-32-3734-7.
- ↑ Wong, Kwong. "NWA/WCW World Title Holders". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Retrieved 2009-02-13.
- 1 2 Will, Gary. "Edouard Carpentier". Canadian Pro Wrestling Page of Fame. Archived from the original on 2009-01-01. Retrieved 2009-02-14.
- ↑ "Wrestler fights for planet". Calgary Herald. 2007-08-23. Archived from the original on 2012-03-29. Retrieved 2009-03-07.
- ↑ Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2000). Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. p. 401. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- ↑ Cappetta, Gary Michael (2006). Bodyslams!: Memoirs of a Wrestling Pitchman. ECW Press. p. 8. ISBN 9781550227093.
- ↑ "William Muldoon". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame. Archived from the original on 2008-08-20. Retrieved 2009-03-09.
- ↑ Kelts, Roland (8 November 2006). "Japan's Fight Clubs". Japan Inc. Retrieved 2009-05-08.
- 1 2 3 "Singles Championship". GAA Japan. Archived from the original on 2007-07-06. Retrieved 2009-05-08.
- 1 2 Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2000). "Mexico: National Trios Championship". Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. p. 393. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- ↑ Clevett, Jason (2004-11-03). "The legend of Jushin "Thunder" Liger". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on July 14, 2012. Retrieved 2009-06-30.
- 1 2 "All Japan Pro Wrestling's Giant Baba Memorial Spectacular". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2012-07-28. Retrieved 2009-05-07.
- 1 2 "History of the Cruiserweight Championship". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2009-05-07.
- ↑ Milner, John M. "Jim Ross". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-03-08.
- ↑ Milner, John; Richard Kamchen. ""Stone Cold" Steve Austin". SLAM! Wrestling. Archived from the original on 2012-03-08. Retrieved 2009-03-08.
- ↑ Austin, Steve; Ross, Jim (2003). The Stone Cold Truth. Pocket Books. p. 10. ISBN 0-7434-7720-0.
- 1 2 "NWA World Heavyweight Title". National Wrestling Alliance. Archived from the original on 2012-06-18. Retrieved 2009-05-06.
- ↑ "Pro Wrestling Illustrated: 2008 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts". The ... Wrestling Almanac and Book of Facts. Sports & Entertainment Publications, LLC. 29 (5): 107–108. ISSN 1043-7576.
- ↑ WCW Starrcade 1996 (VHS). Turner Home Entertainment. 1997.
- ↑ "Bill Longson". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2013-12-28. Retrieved 2009-05-05.
- ↑ Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2006). "(United States: 19th Century & widely defended titles - NWA, WWF, AWA, IWA, ECW, NWA) AWA American Wrestling Association World Title [Paul Bowser]". Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. pp. 10–11. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- ↑ Slagle, Steve. "Bronco Nagurski". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2008-07-20. Retrieved 2009-05-07.
- ↑ Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2000). "Mexico: National Lightweight Championship". Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. p. 393. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- ↑ Schramm, Chris (2008-07-30). "Mexican great Alfonso Dantés dies". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-05-08.
- ↑ "Bull Nakano". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Retrieved 2009-06-30.
- ↑ "Mephisto" (in Spanish). Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre. Archived from the original on 2010-09-27. Retrieved 2009-06-30.
- 1 2 Kenyon, J. Michael. ""The Strangler" Evan Lewis". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-04-25. Retrieved 2009-03-27.
- ↑ Beekman, Scott (2006). Ringside: A History of Professional Wrestling in America. Greenwood Publishing Group. p. 44. ISBN 0-275-98401-X.
- 1 2 "Died. Jack Curley, 61". Time. 1937-07-19. Archived from the original on October 21, 2012. Retrieved 2009-03-26.
- ↑ "Pro Wrestling Illustrated: 2008 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts". The ... Wrestling Almanac and Book of Facts. Sports & Entertainment Publications, LLC. 29 (5): 113. ISSN 1043-7576.
- ↑ Grasso, John (2014). Historical Dictionary of Wrestling. Scarecrow Press. p. 351. ISBN 9780810879263.
- ↑ Slagle, Steve. "Wahoo McDaniel". Professional Wrestling Online Museum. Archived from the original on 2009-02-04. Retrieved 2009-05-06.
- ↑ Milner, John. "Chris Benoit". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-05-05.
- ↑ "Earl Caddock". Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame. Archived from the original on 2008-08-20. Retrieved 2009-03-09.
- ↑ Groubet, Lourdes; Carlos Monsiváis; Gabriel Rodríguez (2006). Espectacular de lucha Libre/ Wrestling Spectacular. UNAM. p. 318. ISBN 970-32-3734-7.
- ↑ Kaelberer, Angie Peterson (2002). Triple H: Pro Wrestler Hunter Hearst Helmsley. Capstone Press. p. 20. ISBN 0-7368-1311-X.
- 1 2 3 4 "History of the World Heavyweight Championship". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2009-05-05.
- ↑ Funk, Terry; Scott E. Williams; Mick Foley (2006). Terry Funk: More Than Just Hardcore. Sports Publishing LLC. p. 198. ISBN 1-59670-159-5.
- ↑ Quadros, Stephen (November 2000). "Kazushi Sakuraba Proves that Pro Wrestlers Can Fight — and Triumph over Brazilian Jujutsu". Black Belt. Black Belt Communications Inc. 38 (11): 82–86. ISSN 0277-3066.
- ↑ Schaefer, A. R. (2002). Y2J: Pro Wrestler Chris Jericho. Capstone Press. p. 18. ISBN 0-7368-1313-6.
- ↑ Kaelberer, Angie Peterson (2003). The Hardy Boyz: Pro Wrestlers Matt and Jeff Hardy. Capstone Press. p. 6. ISBN 0-7368-2142-2.
- ↑ Watts, Bill; Scott Williams (2006). The Cowboy and the Cross: The Bill Watts Story: Rebellion, Wrestling and Redemption. ECW Press. p. 97. ISBN 1-55022-708-4.
- ↑ Duncan, Royal; Gary Will (2006). "(Texas) Dallas: World Class 6-man Tag Team Title". Wrestling Title Histories. Archeus Communications. pp. 271–272. ISBN 0-9698161-5-4.
- ↑ Milner, John M.; Richard Kamchen. "Paul Heyman". SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-05-06.
- ↑ Batista, Dave; Jeremy Roberts (2007). Batista Unleashed. Simon & Schuster. p. 119. ISBN 978-1-4165-4410-4.
- ↑ Beekman, Scott (2006). Ringside: A History of Professional Wrestling in America. Greenwood Publishing Group. p. 62. ISBN 0-275-98401-X.
- ↑ "Eddie Guerrero". World Wrestling Entertainment. Archived from the original on 2008-01-03. Retrieved 2009-07-03.
- ↑ "Pro Wrestling Illustrated: 2008 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts". The ... Wrestling Almanac and Book of Facts. Sports & Entertainment Publications, LLC. 29 (5): 110–111. ISSN 1043-7576.
- ↑ "Pro Wrestling Illustrated: 2008 Wrestling Almanac & Book of Facts". The ... Wrestling Almanac and Book of Facts. Sports & Entertainment Publications, LLC. 29 (5): 108–110. ISSN 1043-7576.
- ↑ "All Roads Lead to Inoki". Official Website of the Los Angeles Dojo. Archived from the original on 2009-06-13. Retrieved 2009-03-26.
- ↑ "Masakatsu Funaki". Fight Magazine. Archived from the original on 2011-07-11. Retrieved 2009-03-26.
- ↑ "What's Pancrase?". Pancrase Hybrid Wrestling. Retrieved 2009-03-26.
- ↑ Reynolds, R.D.; Blade Braxton (2007). The Wrestlecrap Book of Lists!. ECW Press. p. 77. ISBN 978-1-55022-762-8.
- ↑ The Rock; Joe Layden (2000). The Rock Says. HarperCollins. p. 187. ISBN 0-06-103116-X.
- ↑ "History of the WCW World Championship". World Wrestling Entertainment. Retrieved 2009-05-06.
- ↑ "With Thesz goes an era". Wrestling Digest. Archived from the original on 2010-04-10. Retrieved 2009-03-27.
- ↑ Lano, Mike. "Mexican Wrestling - Exciting & Influential". Cauliflower Alley Club. Archived from the original on 2009-05-27. Retrieved 2009-05-07.
- ↑ Pujol, Sergio Alejandro (2002). La década rebelde: Los años 60 en la Argentina (in Spanish). Emecé Editores. p. 34. ISBN 950-04-2406-1.
- 1 2 3 Meltzer, Dave (2011-10-20). "Thurs. update: Brisco, GSP updates, Hall feature, WWE drops announcer, TV show looks to be canceled". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Retrieved 2011-10-21.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 Meltzer, Dave (2012-11-12). "Nov. 12, 2012 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: WON Hall of Fame 2012 double issue, six men inducted, all the news and info from around the world and more!". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Campbell, California: 8. ISSN 1083-9593.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 Meltzer, Dave (November 6, 2013). "Nov 6 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2013 Hall of Fame issue with several new inductees". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Campbell, California: 1. ISSN 1083-9593.
- 1 2 Meltzer, Dave (November 24, 2014). "Nov. 24, 2014 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Annual Hall of Fame issue! Plus tons of news from all over the world including MMA triple-header Saturday". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Campbell, California: 1. ISSN 1083-9593.
- 1 2 3 4 Meltzer, Dave (November 30, 2016). "December 5, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Wrestling Observer Hall of Fame with 4 inductees". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Retrieved December 1, 2016.
- 1 2 3 4 5 Meltzer, Dave (November 29, 2017). "December 4, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: AJ Styles, Minoru Suzuki and more enter the Hall of Fame". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Retrieved November 30, 2017.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Peralta, Sergi (December 20, 2018). "Wrestling Observer anuncia los nominados para el Hall of Fame 2018". Retrieved December 20, 2018.
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Meltzer, Dave (December 12, 2019). "December 16, 2019 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 10 Hall of Fame Inductees". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Retrieved January 5, 2020.
- 1 2 3 4 5 Meltzer, Dave (November 13, 2020). "NOVEMBER 16, 2020 OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: 2020 OBSERVER HALL OF FAME ISSUEs". Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Retrieved November 13, 2020.
External links
- Online listing of the WON Hall of Fame Archived 2017-09-02 at the Wayback Machine