The Ring Renegade: Doug Somers, The Pretty Boy of Professional Wrestling
A Legacy Forged in the American Wrestling Association
Doug Somers, known to the wrestling world as Pretty Boy, left an indelible mark on the American Wrestling Association (AWA) during the mid-1980s. As one half of the dynamic tag team duo with Playboy Buddy Rose, managed by the enigmatic
Sherri Martel, Somers twice claimed the coveted AWA World Tag Team Championship.
Early Life and Family Ties
Born Douglas Duane Somerson on September 22, 1951, in South Minneapolis, Minnesota, Somers was the youngest of seven children to Carl and Dorothy Somerson. Among his siblings were four brothers, Jack, Russ, Dennis, and Gene, and two sisters, Barbara and Shirley. Notably, he was also the uncle of author and model Julie Somerson.
Professional Wrestling Career
Somers' wrestling career took off in Minneapolis in 1986, where he teamed up with Playboy Buddy Rose under the guidance of manager Sherri Martel. This union led to their first AWA World Tag Team Championship victory on May 17, 1986, defeating
Curt Hennig and
Scott Hall via countout. The trio's rivalry with The Midnight Rockers (
Shawn Michaels and
Marty Jannetty) became a defining feature of the AWA during 1986, culminating in Michaels and Jannetty claiming the title on January 17, 1987.
AWA Highlights and Feuds
Throughout 1987, Somers continued to wrestle for the AWA, both as a singles competitor and as part of various tag teams, including stints with Buddy Wolfe and Kevin Kelly. A notable moment came when he substituted for Boris Zukhov to team with Soldat Ustinov against
Jerry Lawler and
Bill Dundee. In 1989, Somers re-emerged in the AWA, this time managed by Johnny Valiant.
Independent Circuit and Global Wrestling Federation
As the AWA's popularity began to wane, Somers transitioned to the independent circuit, where he competed for the Global Wrestling Federation in 1991. During this period, he participated in the TV title tournament. Later, he engaged in a feud with Frankie Valentine in Georgia's Folkstyle Championship Wrestling. One of his most memorable matches took place at WCW's Halloween Havoc in 1991, where he faced off against Van Hammer in the first pay-per-view match of his career.
A Lasting Legacy in the World of Professional Wrestling
Doug Somers' contributions to the world of professional wrestling are undeniable. As Pretty Boy, he etched his name in the annals of AWA history, forging a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of wrestlers and fans alike. Though his career spanned multiple promotions and circuits, it is his work in the AWA, alongside Playboy Buddy Rose and Sherri Martel, that remains the most memorable and enduring aspect of his remarkable career.
FAQ
What is Doug Somers most notable wrestling achievement?
Doug Somers is best known for his time in the American Wrestling Association (AWA), where he held the AWA World Tag Team Championship on multiple occasions with his partner, Buddy Rose.
Who did Doug Somers feud with in the AWA?
Doug Somers had a notable feud with Verne Gagne, a legendary wrestler and promoter, during his time in the AWA. Their rivalry was a highlight of the promotion during the 1980s.
What is Doug Somers wrestling style?
Doug Somers was known for his technical grappling style, which was influenced by his amateur wrestling background. He was a skilled submission wrestler and often used his quickness and agility to outmaneuver his opponents.
How did Doug Somers start his wrestling career?
Doug Somers started his wrestling career in the 1970s, working for various independent promotions in the Midwest. He eventually signed with the AWA, where he achieved his greatest success.
What is Doug Somers doing now?
After retiring from wrestling, Doug Somers has kept a low profile. He has made sporadic appearances at wrestling reunion events and has been involved in various business ventures outside of the wrestling industry.
