278. Otto Wanz

The Minnesota based American Wrestling Association was still a very relevant promotion in the early 1980’s and winning that company’s World Championship meant something. Many were shocked when a relatively unknown Austrian named Otto Wanz became their World Champion in 1982.

Wanz was a legitimate strongman and a solid draw in Europe who defeated Nick Bockwinkle to become the AWA World Champion. It has been often speculated that Wanz paid the AWA to become the champion to give himself a larger international name. Whether this is true or not, Wanz did parlay that American success to further his International Name. Wanz would form and star in the European Catch wrestling Association and further the name of Professional Wrestling in Europe. Is this worth a Hall of Fame induction?

Should Otto Wanz be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put him in! - 58.7%

Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 13%

Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 15.2%

No opinion. - 0%

No way! - 13%

The Bullet Points

Other Aliases: Big Otto
Billed From: Graz, Austria
Key Championships Held: AWA World Heavyweight
CATCH World Heavyweight (4)
Why they will get in: He is the only legitimate representative of Central Europe.
Why they won't get in: Who says they have to have one?
Five Greatest Matches/Moments: 1. Won the AWA World Heavyweight Title (8/29/82)
2. Participated in the tournament to crown the first IWGP Champion(1983)
3. Defended his CATCH world Title against Andre The Giant (5/14/86)
4. Regained hs Catch Title in hard fought battle against Vader (7/4/87)
5. Defended his title against Black Bart in a very bloody and shockingly good encounter (5/12/88)