A hard-hitting, unpredictable wrestler who brought a level of intensity and chaos to the ring, influencing generations of wrestlers to come.
Bruiser Brody, born Frank Donald Goodish, was a professional wrestler renowned for his hardcore brawling style, which often resulted in one or more participants bleeding by the end of the match. This brutal and intense wrestling persona earned him the reputation as one of the most feared and respected figures in the world of professional wrestling.
Before entering the world of professional wrestling, Brody was an accomplished athlete, earning All-State honors in both football and basketball at Warren High School in Michigan. He later attended West Texas A&M University, where he played football for four teams over three seasons in the Texas Football League.
Brody's wrestling career spanned over two decades, during which he worked as a special attraction wrestler in North America, making select appearances for various promotions such as World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW), World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF), Central States Wrestling (CSW), Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF), and the American Wrestling Association (AWA). He also regularly worked in Japan for All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW).
Behind the scenes, Brody was fiercely protective of his in-ring image, rarely agreeing to lose matches and building a reputation for being volatile. On occasion, he would intentionally hit or hurt opponents during a match, contrary to the predetermined nature of professional wrestling. This unpredictability and intensity earned him a loyal following and a spot in the professional wrestling hall of fame.
Brody's wrestling philosophy centered around the notion that a wrestler's reputation and integrity were paramount. He believed that a wrestler's in-ring persona should be reflective of their real-life personality, and that compromise or loss of integrity would result in a loss of credibility with the audience.
Brody's volatile nature and reputation for being unpredictable often led to controversies and conflicts with promoters, bookers, and fellow wrestlers. Despite this, he remained a beloved figure among fans, who appreciated his authenticity and unwavering commitment to his craft.
On July 17, 1988, Brody's life was tragically cut short when he was stabbed to death backstage in a shower during a wrestling event in Puerto Rico. The killer, Jos González, better known as Invader 1, was acquitted of murder, with a jury ruling that González killed Brody in self-defense.
Bruiser Brody's impact on professional wrestling is still felt today, with many wrestlers citing him as an inspiration and influence. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of authenticity and commitment to one's craft, and his contributions to the world of professional wrestling are undeniable.
76 Years Old
A tough-as-nails wrestler and actor who entertained audiences with his rugged charm and intense performances in the ring and on screen.
81 Years Old
A hardcore wrestling legend known for his intense and physical in-ring style, as well as his iconic feuds and championship reigns.
80 Years Old
A charismatic professional wrestler and promoter, known for his rugged, working-class persona and iconic feuds in the National Wrestling Alliance and World Championship Wrestling.
77 Years Old
A charismatic, flashy, and iconic wrestling superstar known for his extravagant ring attire, signature "Woooo!" catchphrase, and 16 world championship titles.
83 Years Old
A flamboyant and outspoken wrestling villain, known for his arrogant persona and infamous feuds with Hulk Hogan and Sgt. Slaughter.
78 Years Old
A Cold War-era wrestling villain, known for his anti-American persona and iconic rendition of the Soviet national anthem.
Born in 1926
A pioneering wrestler and trainer who dominated the ring in the 1950s and 1960s, known for his charismatic persona and innovative grappling techniques.
