The History of Professional Wrestling

Professional Wrestling has endured hardship, booms, and tragedy. The wrestlers and the administrators have drudged on through thick and thin. For over a century, the sport has entertained millions of roaring fans who continue to pack the arenas to see their favorites in action. From William Muldoon to Lou Thesz to Ric Flair, the wrestlers have stepped into the squared circle week after week. There have been feuds and partnerships. There has been rough times and times of joy. From the Mid Atlantic with the Crocketts and Flair to the Midwest with the Gagnes and Bockwinkel, the sport has prospered. Then there is pro wrestling's tycoon company World Wrestling Entertainment run in the Northeast by the McMahons. These companies entertained fans for years and years, even though some were swallowed up the the shark that is WWE. There was the WCW who beat WWE, then WWF, in the ratings 84 weeks straight, and now there is TNA Wrestling which is gaining steam in Florida. The wrestlers and companies come and go by the abundance. There are more memorable ones such as Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan, and Andre the Giant,and less famous ones such as Greg "The Hammer" Valentine and Wahoo McDaniel. Before the Civil War, even Honest Abe himself tried his hand at the sport at local fairs and carnivals. There is really only one thing to say about pro wrestling considering its rich history and all the memories it has produced. Professional Wrestling is a pastime that many have and will enjoy over the years. -A.Y.