The American professional wrestler Eldridge Wayne Coleman better known by his popular stage name “Superstar Billy Graham,” passed away at the age of 79 on May 17th, 2023. The news of his passing has left the professional wrestling world mourning the loss of one of its most legendary figures. Graham had been struggling with various health problems since the 1990s.
Since last year, he has been inflicted with many health issues, including Covid-19, a fatal ear infection that spread to his skull, inflammation in the lungs, and renal failure. Graham had been hospitalized in an intensive care unit less than a month ago. The doctors had insisted that he should be taken off of life support two days ago, but his wife had decided against it. But unfortunately, on the evening of May 17th, he had to be taken off life support as no more hopes were left of him surviving this.
The announcement was made by fellow WWE Hall of Fame member Ric Flair who expressed his grief on Twitter and also paid tribute to the impact Billy had on his life and career. Shortly after Flair’s post, the renowned wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer confirmed the news, further solidifying the sad reality. Meltzer also emphasized the impact of Graham’s influence and how he was a role model for well-known wrestlers such as Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan, and many more.
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Billy Graham’s Impact on the Wrestling Industry
“Superstar” Billy Graham’s contribution to the wrestling industry is immeasurable. He rose to prominence during the 1960s and 70s, and several legendary wrestlers followed in his footsteps. Some of his wrestling protégés are Ric Flair, Hulk Hogan, Jesse “The Body” Ventura, Steve Austin, Triple H, and Scott Steiner. Hulk Hogan, one of the most iconic figures in wrestling history, often acknowledged Graham’s influence on his own character development. In fact, Hogan has even publicly stated on multiple occasions that he modeled his persona after that of Billy’s, along with another wrestling legend, the “Nature Boy” Ric Flair.
Dave Meltzer from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter said that if it weren’t for Billy, the wrestling industry would have been different than it is today. Towards the end of 2015, Graham announced that he had signed a ‘legends contract’ (a deal to make inconsistent, non-wrestling appearances for a long term). He had renewed the contract just two years ago.
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Graham was a three-time champion in professional wrestling promotions, and in recognition of his accomplishments and impact, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in the year 2004. He also held the WWF Heavyweight Championship and was widely regarded as one of the most influential wrestlers of his time. His unique style was characterized by bulging muscles, bleached blond hair, and tie-dye clothes, which made him stand out among fellow wrestlers. His larger-than-life personality and interesting interviews revolutionized the way wrestling was presented, making what would later be known as ‘sports entertainment’.
However, his life was not without controversy. Graham was among the first wrestlers who used steroids heavily, a practice that later had detrimental effects on his health and the well-being of others in the industry. He himself expressed his regret for steroid abuse and became an advocate for its responsible usage among past WWE Champions.
A documentary film titled “20 Years Too Soon: The Superstar Billy Graham Story” was released in the year 2006, which provides a deeper dive into the life and journey of the influential wrestling icon.
As the news of Graham’s passing spreads throughout the wrestling community, his family, friends, and fans express their grief and condolences, promising that he and his contribution will always be remembered and cherished.
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