About This Quiz
In the early 1980s, pro wrestling was a shabby D-level “sport” that had only a few fans. Then, thanks in large part to the World Wrestling Federation, cable TV and, of course, Vince McMahon, an event that once languished in the shadows sprang into the spotlight all over America. The Golden Age of pro wrestling was born.
In the '70s, wrestling was what you saw on TV if you got up before Saturday morning cartoons came on. There'd be an hour of old Three Stooges films, then an hour of "studio wrestling," then Looney Tunes would save the day.
Do you know the famous wrestlers of the Golden Age? There was, of course, that golden-haired guy at the forefront of the movement. How could anyone forget his handlebar mustache and his deep, gravelly voice booming from the ring?
>The Golden Age was a short wrestling boom — it only lasted from the mid-80s until 1992. But during that time, iconic wrestlers became worldwide celebrities. Do you remember Jim Duggan’s nickname? And do you think you know the history of the Legion of Doom?
From WrestleMania to SummerSlam, heroes and heels were enshrined in WWF lore during the ‘80s. Throw down your best DDT finisher and see if you really know ‘80s wrestling stars!
Not only was he athletic, he was an extraordinary entertainer. Many people think of Macho Man Randy Savage as perhaps the best pro wrestler of the ‘80s.
Sure, he wasn’t exactly the best wrestler of the ‘80s, but with his unforgettable name and savage head butts, Junkyard Dog was definitely a legend.
With his golden locks and meaty muscles, there’s no bigger icon of ‘80s wrestling than Hulk Hogan. His talents made pro wrestling into a top-tier attraction that packed huge arenas.
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“Rowdy" Roddy Piper has as much to do with Hulk Hogan’s stardom as the star himself. He was the ultimate villain, one who vexed Hogan at every turn.
Jake "The Snake" Roberts was one of the smoothest talkers in wrestling. And his famous DDT finisher was one of the most popular moves of the decade.
Mr. Perfect was a perfect heel because he was condescending to the nth degree. He was also a two-time intercontinental champ until Bret Hart stole the belt.
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Ted Dibiase loved to shout, "Everybody has a price!" He’d often make himself deplorable by paying fans to perform degrading acts in front of the crowd.
André the Giant was easily one of the most physically imposing WWF stars. But he gained even greater fame with his acting in "The Princess Bride."
The Ultimate Warrior had the snappy name and the flashy face paint. He wasn’t the most technically proficient wrestler, but he was definitely memorable.
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Earthquake was a monster of a man who weighed nearly 500 pounds. He later teamed up with Typhoon to create the Natural Disasters.
Big Boss Man’s backstory placed him as a domineering prison guard from the South. He threatened his opponents with "hard time."
In his prime, Hulk Hogan was a bona fide celebrity. "Hulkmania" took the world by storm, transforming pro wrestling from a sideshow into the main event.
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The Road Warriors became the Legion of Doom. No matter the name, they were one of the most formidable duos ever to take the ring.
Bret Hart was "The Hitman," and was part of the Hart Foundation (along with Jim Neidhart). In 1992, he won the WWF title from Ric Flair.
“Ravishing" Rick Rude was the supposed womanizer of the WWF. And before his matches, he’d make a big show of removing his robe to unveil his huge, glistening abs.
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King Kong Bundy’s career actually wasn’t all that notable, but his clash with Hulk Hogan made him a temporary star. His name intentionally recalls the serial killer Ted Bundy.
At Wrestlemania II, the Dynamite Kid and Davy Boy Smith — the British Bulldogs — won the tag team title. Later, Smith went on to have a successful singles career.
The Honky Tonk Man was one of the most ridiculous characters of the WWF. For each match, he’d slick back his hair and dress up just like Elvis. He’s still one of the most successful heels ever.
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Let’s be honest, he wasn’t much of a wrestler. But Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake got to team up with Hulk Hogan for SummerSlam 1989, a major career highlight.
Ricky Steamboat was "The Dragon," and he was no slouch in the ring. At Wrestlemania III, he seized the title from Randy Savage.
Koloff was the "Russian Nightmare." He was an enormous man ... and he was actually an American from Minnesota.
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Paul Orndorff was a main event staple for years. In Wrestlemania I, "Mr. Wonderful" starred alongside Mr. T and Hulk Hogan.
“Hacksaw" Jim Duggan had the unforgettable name and incredible work ethic that made him a fan favorite.
The Iron Sheik was known for his famous Camel Clutch. And he seized the WWF championship ... just before Hulk Hogan swooped in to save the day.
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With their painted faces and industrial rock look, Ax and Smash were Demolition. They had a brutal ring style that won many matches.
Greg "The Hammer" Valentine didn’t just hold the intercontinental title, he defended at the very first WrestleMania. But for most of his career, he was a mid-card draw.
King Kong Bundy now sometimes works as a standup comedian. It’s good that he has a sense of humor because in the ring, he looked like a walking egg.
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The Great Kabuki was both a hero and a heel during his pro wrestling career, which started in Japan. His trademark move was to blow "Asian mist" right into the eyes of his foes.
He’s best known as simply Ric Flair, one of the most famous wrestlers ever. But during his long career, he sometimes went by "Black Scorpion."
The Iron Sheik played upon the patriotic whims of the audience. He’d often leap into the ring and scream, "Iran number one!"
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