For a time in the 1990’s, there were wrestling fans and journalists alike decreeing Manami Toyota as the best professional wrestler in the world regardless of gender.  Toyota was a true star in Japan and is the recipient of nine five star matches from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter and the winner of any Japanese women’s title worth having in the 90’s.

The man with the claim to fame of being the first recognized National Wrestling Alliance World Heavyweight Champion, Orville Brown mad his name in the state of Kansas accumulating regional championships.  Brown was pegged by the growing National Wrestling Alliance to be their first champion and embarked on unification matches with other regional promotions.  A severe car accident derailed that plan, but he would promote the Midwest Wrestling Association in the 50’s before selling it to Bob Geigel.

From the carnival era, John Pesek forewent his initial dream of boxing for the world of professional wrestling.  Pesek was not often the largest man, but his dexterity and cunning earning him the nickname of the “Tiger Man” and he would eventually become the World Champion.  Pesek was also known within the inner circle for being a true “hooker” as in he was one often called in to ensure that other wrestlers would follow the unspoken code of doing the honors.

The patriarch of the Orton clan, Bob Orton Sr. competed all across the United States winning a plethora of regional singles and tag team championships.  Credited with inventing the pedigree finishing manoeuvre, Orton had a run himself in the WWWF, (though billed as “Cowboy” Rocky Fitzpatrick) which saw him receive a World Title shot against Bruno Sammartino.