Professional Wrestlers Of The 70s

The Squared Circle Titans: Professional Wrestling's Golden Age in the 1970s

The 1970s represent a pivotal era in professional wrestling, a time often referred to as its golden age. This decade saw the rise of iconic characters, unforgettable rivalries, and innovative wrestling styles that continue to influence the sport today. From the charismatic showmen to the brutally tough technicians, the professional wrestlers of the 70s captivated audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on wrestling history. This article delves deep into the world of 70s wrestling, exploring the key figures, memorable moments, and lasting legacies of this remarkable era.

The Rise of Regional Territories and the Power of Television

Unlike the unified WWE landscape of today, the 1970s witnessed a flourishing of regional wrestling territories. These independent promotions, such as the NWA (National Wrestling Alliance), WWWF (World Wide Wrestling Federation – later WWE), AWA (American Wrestling Association), and Georgia Championship Wrestling, operated with a degree of autonomy, fostering unique styles and rivalries. This decentralized system allowed for the development of distinct regional identities and homegrown stars.

Crucially, television played a significant role in the popularity of 70s wrestling. Weekly televised wrestling shows became a staple in many markets, building loyal fan bases and introducing a new generation to the sport. The accessibility of these broadcasts allowed wrestlers to develop personalities and rivalries that transcended geographical boundaries. The captivating storytelling, dramatic promos, and the sheer athleticism showcased on television created a devoted following that grew exponentially throughout the decade. This rise of television exposure directly contributed to the creation of larger-than-life characters and the enduring legends of the 70s wrestling scene.

The Icons of the Mat: Defining Personalities and Wrestling Styles

The 1970s boasted a roster of exceptional wrestlers, each with a distinct style and persona that resonated with audiences. These weren't just athletes; they were compelling characters, carefully crafted to embody a specific archetype:

• The "Nature Boy" Ric Flair: Though his prime spanned several decades, Flair's rise to prominence began in the 70s. His flamboyant style, complete with a robe, boisterous personality, and exceptional in-ring skills, established him as a prototype for the charismatic heel (villain). His mastery of the "work" – the art of making the pre-determined outcome believable – cemented his early success.

• Dusty Rhodes: Known for his "common man" persona and his connection with the audience, Rhodes embodied the underdog hero. His brawling style and impassioned promos resonated deeply with fans, establishing him as a major draw in territories like Georgia Championship Wrestling. His feud with Ric Flair was legendary and defined much of the NWA's landscape in this era.

• Harley Race: A master technician with a ruthless, aggressive style, Race commanded respect throughout the NWA. His longevity and championship dominance in multiple territories showcased his exceptional skill and ability to captivate audiences. His intensity and focus made him a believable threat in the ring.

• Bruno Sammartino: The WWWF's longest-reigning champion, Sammartino, symbolized strength, honor, and resilience. His Italian heritage resonated with a large segment of the New York fanbase, building an intensely loyal following. He became a symbol of the working-class underdog triumphing over adversity.

• Bob Backlund: Known for his incredibly strong and technically sound wrestling, Backlund's style was a contrast to the more flamboyant performers of the era. His intense focus and dedication to the art of wrestling earned him immense respect and a surprisingly long title reign in the WWWF.

• The Sheik: A master of the heel persona, The Sheik utilized a vicious, brutal style to garner heat from the crowd. His iconic character, complete with a turban and robe, embodied the villainous archetype, playing on cultural stereotypes to create a compelling and memorable heel.

• Giant Baba: A towering figure in Japanese professional wrestling, Baba's influence on the sport was immense. His innovative booking and promotion of All Japan Pro Wrestling helped to establish Japan as a significant global wrestling hub, particularly throughout the 70s.

These wrestlers, along with many others, defined the landscape of professional wrestling in the 70s, demonstrating a range of styles and personas that catered to a diverse audience.

Unforgettable Rivalries and Storylines: The Heart of the Entertainment

The success of 70s wrestling wasn't solely dependent on individual wrestlers; it was fueled by the compelling rivalries and storylines that unfolded week after week. These weren't just matches; they were narratives built over time, filled with drama, betrayal, and moments of intense emotion.

The epic battles between Ric Flair and Dusty Rhodes are legendary. Their feud transcended territories and defined a generation. Their matches were often brutal and emotionally charged, playing on the perceived differences between the charismatic, arrogant Flair and the relatable, hard-working Rhodes.

The intense rivalry between Bruno Sammartino and Ivan Koloff is another example. Koloff's shocking upset victory over Sammartino sent shockwaves through the WWWF and generated significant buzz. This clash represented a classic battle between good and evil, captivating fans with its simplicity and intensity.

The longevity of rivalries played a crucial role. Feuds often stretched over months, even years, allowing storylines to develop organically and fostering a deeper connection between the wrestlers and their audience. This created a sense of investment and anticipation, keeping viewers tuning in week after week to see how the narrative would unfold.

The Evolution of In-Ring Style and Match Types

The 1970s saw a variety of wrestling styles flourish. While technical wrestling remained important, the era also saw an increase in the emphasis on brawling, high-flying moves, and dramatic storytelling within the matches themselves.

• Technical Wrestling: Wrestlers like Bob Backlund exemplified the technical prowess of the era, focusing on mat wrestling, holds, and counters. Their matches emphasized skill and precision, demonstrating an understanding of the intricacies of grappling.

• Brawling and Hard-hitting Style: Wrestlers like Dusty Rhodes and Harley Race excelled in the brutal, hard-hitting style. Their matches often involved chair shots, weapon use, and intense physicality, providing a visceral and exciting experience for the audience.

• High-Flying Maneuvers: While not as prevalent as in later eras, the seeds of high-flying wrestling were sown in the 70s, with certain wrestlers incorporating aerial moves into their repertoire. This style paved the way for the more acrobatic wrestling seen in subsequent decades.

The evolution of match types also contributed to the entertainment value. While standard singles matches remained popular, the 70s saw the increasing use of tag team matches, multi-man battles, and steel cage matches, adding layers of complexity and excitement to the storylines.

The Lasting Legacy of the 1970s in Professional Wrestling

The 1970s laid the groundwork for much of what we see in professional wrestling today. The era established the importance of character development, compelling storytelling, and the creation of enduring rivalries. The wrestlers of this era weren't just athletes; they were performers, storytellers, and cultural icons. Their dedication to their craft, combined with the rise of television, created a golden age that continues to inspire and influence the sport today.

The popularity of regional territories demonstrated the power of localized storytelling and the development of distinct wrestling styles. The diverse personalities of wrestlers like Ric Flair, Dusty Rhodes, Bruno Sammartino, and Harley Race showcased the range of characters and styles that could captivate audiences. Their influence can still be felt in the larger-than-life personalities and dramatic storylines that are central to modern professional wrestling.

The emphasis on storytelling, the use of compelling rivalries, and the evolution of in-ring styles all contributed to the enduring legacy of the 70s. The innovations and triumphs of this era continue to shape the world of professional wrestling, making it a golden age worth remembering and studying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: Was professional wrestling in the 70s "fixed"? A: Yes, professional wrestling in the 70s, like today, was predetermined. The outcomes of matches were planned in advance, but the athleticism, skill, and dramatic storytelling involved were very real and demanding. The "work," the art of making the pre-determined outcome believable, was a crucial aspect of the entertainment.

• Q: How did the regional territories differ? A: Regional territories fostered unique wrestling styles and characters. For example, the WWWF in New York emphasized strong technical wrestling, while Georgia Championship Wrestling developed a more brawling, hard-hitting style. These differences contributed to the diverse landscape of professional wrestling in the 70s.

• Q: What made the 70s a "golden age"? A: The combination of strong regional territories, compelling characters, captivating storylines, and the rise of television broadcasting all contributed to the golden age of professional wrestling in the 1970s. The era produced some of the most iconic wrestlers and unforgettable moments in the sport’s history.

• Q: How did television influence the sport? A: Television allowed wrestlers to develop larger-than-life personalities and build lasting relationships with their audiences. Weekly televised wrestling shows created a devoted fan base and expanded the reach of the sport significantly.

• Q: What are some key rivalries to remember from the 70s? A: The Ric Flair/Dusty Rhodes rivalry, Bruno Sammartino/Ivan Koloff, and many regional rivalries within territories like the NWA are key examples. These feuds were often long-running sagas, contributing to the emotional investment of fans.

Conclusion

The professional wrestlers of the 1970s left an undeniable mark on the history of the sport. Their dedication to their craft, their innovative styles, and their ability to create compelling narratives established a golden age that continues to influence wrestling today. From the flamboyant "Nature Boy" Ric Flair to the stoic Bruno Sammartino, these athletes captivated audiences with their skill, charisma, and the unforgettable stories they told inside the squared circle. Their legacy lives on, reminding us of the power of storytelling, the importance of character development, and the enduring appeal of professional wrestling. Their contributions remain a testament to the enduring legacy of this fascinating and impactful era.