165. Austin Idol

Austin Idol began his career as a power wrestler, which stood to reason considering he competed as a Power Lifter in the Super Heavyweight division. But we know the adage of strongman wrestlers, who although are marketable are rarely any good. After a plane crash that sidelined him, he remerged significantly lighter, with a new look, and the moniker of the “Universal Heartthrob”. The new persona was a winner, and though he was not on a national stage he was a draw in Southern promotions and feuded often with Jerry Lawler. Had Idol had a shot in the WWF, he could very well have done well there.

Should Austin Idol be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put him in! - 87.3%

Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 4.8%

Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 2.4%

No opinion. - 2.4%

No way! - 3.2%

The Bullet Points

Other Aliases: Mike McCord (Real Name)
The Universal Heartthrob
Billed From: U.S.A. (Las Vegas, NV)
Key Championships Held: AWA Southern Heavyweight (3)
NWA Georgia Television
NWA Southeastern Heavyweight (4)
NWA Georgia Tag Team w/The Masked Superstar
NWA Georgia Heavyweight
CWA Tag Team (3) 2w/Dutch Mantell, 1w/Jerry Lawler
CWA Heavyweight
NWA Alabama Heavyweight (2)
CWA International Heavyweight (4)
AWA Southern Tag Team w/Jerry Lawler
PWF (Japan) Tag Team w/Stan Hansen
Why they will get in: He is another regional star who could symbolize Southern wrestling
Why they won't get in: He is barely known within the WWE circle.
Five Greatest Matches/Moments: 1. Beats Jerry Lawler to win his first AWA Southern Title (12/25/78)
2. Defeats Mr. Wrestling II for the Georgia Heavyweight Belt (3/29/80)
3. Wrestled Harley Race to a draw for the NWA World Heavyweight Title (1980)
4. Defeats Randy Savage for the CWA International Heavyweight Belt (5/14/84)
5. Defeats Jerry Lawler in a Steel Cage Match to win the Southern Title in a match where Lawler’s head was also shaved (4/27/87)