Written by: Liam O'Sullivan

Stan Hansen: The Lariat-Wielding Outlaw of Professional Wrestling

Stan Hansen, known to the world as "The Lariat," is a retired American professional wrestler celebrated for his unbridled ferocity, rugged wrestling style, and unforgettable cowboy persona. With a career spanning over three decades, Hansen left an indelible mark on the sport, earning him a revered status in Japan, where he won numerous championships and accolades.

Early Life and Football Career

Born John Stanley Hansen II on August 29, 1949, Hansen's athletic pursuits began with college football, playing for the West Texas State Buffaloes. Though he attempted to make it big in the sport, Hansen's football career was short-lived, and he eventually turned to professional wrestling full-time.

Professional Wrestling Career

Hansen's wrestling debut occurred in 1973, and by the following year, he had teamed up with future partner Frank Goodish, aka Bruiser Brody, while competing in Leroy McGuirk's Tri-State territory. This partnership would prove to be a defining moment in Hansen's career, as he would go on to forge a successful and violent wrestling style that would earn him a reputation as one of the most feared grapplers in the sport.

World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWW)

In 1976, Hansen made his debut for the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWW), where he immediately began feuding with WWF Heavyweight Champion Bruno Sammartino. Their intense rivalry reached a boiling point during a title match, where Hansen infamously broke Sammartino's neck, an incident that would go on to define Hansen's career as a force to be reckoned with.

Success in Japan

In the 1980s, Hansen's popularity soared in Japan, where he became a beloved gaijin (foreigner) wrestler, known for his brutal and unyielding style. During his time in Japan, Hansen won an impressive seven championships in the All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW) promotion, earning him the distinction of being a ten-time world champion.

Legacy and Impact

Hansen's influence on professional wrestling extends far beyond his impressive championship tally. His innovative and explosive style has inspired generations of wrestlers, and his persona as a loud, violent cowboy has become an iconic image in the world of professional wrestling.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Hansen's poor eyesight contributed to his stiff wrestling style, as he often relied on instinct and adrenaline to navigate the ring.
• He appeared in a small role in the 1989 film No Holds Barred, alongside Hulk Hogan.
• In 2011, Hansen co-wrote his autobiography, The Last Outlaw, which offers a candid look into his tumultuous career.

Awards and Honors

• Stan Hansen was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2020.
• He was named AJPW's Best Foreigner in 1982, 1983, 1985, and 1991.

Stan Hansen's impact on professional wrestling is a testament to his unwavering dedication and innovative spirit. As one of the most successful and popular gaijin in Japanese professional wrestling history, Hansen's legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.