Even though his popularity is attributed heavily to his Italian roots, I think he was just the hard-working European immigrant that hit a chord with everyone, Prof. Ouch of Professor Ouchs Bizarre Bazaar & Odditorium in Philadelphia told The Wrestling Estate in 2018 following Sammartinos death in 2018. [8] Sammartino became a vocal critic of the drug use and raunchier storylines that became prevalent in the professional wrestling industry after his retirement but he reconciled with WWE in 2013 and headlined their Hall of Fame ceremony that year. RELATED: Ruthless Aggression: 10 Title Reigns (That We Completely Forgot About). Sammartino finally lost the WWE Championship in January 1971 . As for "Bruno Finally Wins Mat Title," the 260-pound, 27-year-old Pittsburgh matter scored a two-fall win over the long-time champion "Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers, 42, 235-pounds of Camden, New Jersey. His most notable title defense was a time limit draw with Bruno Sammartino at a Shea Stadium show in 1972. "One of the finest men I knew, in life and in business," WWE chairman Vince McMahon said . Bruno Sammartino was a 90-pound weakling in high school. The following title matches feature the WWE Championship. [17], In 2006, he signed an independent deal with Jakks Pacific to produce an action figure, which is part of the WWE Classic Superstars line, Series 10. Tributes from the world of wrestling began flocking in shortly after news of Sammartino's passing, with WWE . At 93 minutes, the reimaged . That victory in 48 seconds began a 2,803-day reign that stands today as the longest in history, by far. Sammartino was the longest-reigning champion in the history of what's now known as WWE. But I kept my word. Lengthy championships are a big aspect in wrestling, but it is definitely easier when the champion does not frequently have to defend his title. [29] The match ended in a double-disqualification after the Sammartinos began brawling with Beefcake and his manager Johnny Valiant. Bruno chose a photo with his 1965 belt for the cover of his autobiography, Bruno Sammartino:The Autobiography of Wrestlings Living Legend, 8. On January 18, 1971, Ivan Kohloff won the WWWF World Championship and secured his legacy in professional wrestling lore by pinning Bruno Sammartino. We took a picture, but we never spoke a word to each other" (Laughs). 21.07.1973 - 05.01.1974. Wrestling legend Bruno Sammartino has died at the age of 82. Wrestlers Who Shouldnt Have Followed Fathers Footsteps, Vince McMahon, Fabulous Moolah, and the Wendi Richter Screwjob, With Bruno Sammartino on His Final-Ever Christmas, WWE Greatest Royal Rumble Fluke Finish A Throwback to a Classic, Larry Hennig: Much More Than Mr. Perfects Dad, Nikolai Volkoff: A Hero, a Legend, and My Friend, Mark Madden His Controversial Career in Pro Wrestling, Bruno Sammartino and Vince McMahons Venomous 25-Year Feud, Buddy Rogers The Man Who Drove a Wedge in the NWA. Bruno Sammartino: WWWF Heavyweight Champion - 1,237 days WWE/YouTube Stan Stasiak only has one successful title defense to his name against Chief Jay Strongbow, and their bout went to a no contest. Rogers was one of the great wrestlers of his era. 18.06.1987. It had been eight long years as champion, and my schedule had been so hectic, you just couldnt believe it, Sammartino said of his first run (in quotes compiled by ProWrestlingStories.I traveled overseas a lot to Japan and Australia you name it, I went everywhere. In the summer of 1960 James M. Yet few people know all the history behind Brunos belt and why some have called it the 'holy grail' of professional wrestling artifacts. Exclusives. Before Hulk Hogan could be the face of the company during its national expansion, before Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock could lead The Attitude Era, and before John Cena or Roman Reigns were even born, Sammartino was a two-time WWE Champion who had cumulatively held the strap for over 11 years (as a fun fact, Cena was born . As the final entrant on this list, Ricochet is unique in the fact that during his NXT North American Championship reign he was actually unsuccessful in ever once retaining his belt on pay per view, losing it in his first defense at an NXT Takeover. Pedro Morales was the champion from 1971 until 1973. FILE - In this Nov. 30, 2000, file photo, former pro wrestler Bruno Sammartino, 65, poses with a painting of him in his pro wrestling prime weighing 275 pounds in 1965 at age 35, in his Pittsburgh . [15] In his autobiography, Sammartino states that he believed McMahon set him up, by double-booking him and not informing him of his match in Baltimore, as a way of punishment. "We can do this the easy way or the hard way!". Bruno Leopoldo Francesco Sammartino was an Italian-born American professional wrestler, best known for his work with the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF, now WWE). Shinsuke Nakamuraheld the WWE Intercontinental Championship for a total of 201 days throughout the latter half of 2019. They both encapsulated what a hero was for their respective eras. With Bruno as WWWFs World Champion, WWWF conquered the New York territory and became a true alternative to the monopoly that the NWA had held over pro wrestling in the United States since 1948. He was inducted into the WWE . Between 1963 and 1980, he main evented many times and many of those main events drew a full house. Interestingly, Thesz beat Rogers in a three falls rematch on February 7th, 1963, in Toronto, a result often forgotten. May 20 - USA Event: Bruno . Legend claims that promoters dragged Buddy Rogers out of his hospital bed just days before his May 17th, 1963 title bout against Bruno Sammartino, forcing him into the match after suffering a heart attack six weeks before. [7] Later that year, he won the International Tag Team Championship for the second time by teaming with Dominic DeNucci. [49] Flair said Sammartino refused to shake his hand at the event, while Sammartino said Flair saw him coming down the hall, turned, and rushed away. It was time to make a switch. title(s) WWWF MSG Show (Dec '63) Dec 16th 1963: Bruno Sammartino (c) def. Buddy Rogers was a funny guy, and he thought he wasnt going to wrestle under these conditions, and back then, we didnt have contracts like today, but more or less, we strictly got paid on the gate. Never Forget That Donald Trump Once Shaved Vince McMahon's Head and Is a Member of the WWE Hall of Fame On last night's episode of Table For 3. HISTORY: : Sugar Ray Leonard was the winner of a gold medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics. Bruno Sammartino Saves Freddie Blassie From Being Killed By The Mob! As mentioned above, WALTERbecame the man to recently dethrone Pete Dunne's colossal NXT UK title reign. His Intercontinental Championship reign is the perfect example of that. By 1971, Bruno Sammartino was beaten up. In addition, Ivelisse has her first title defense against Mercedes Martinez. He also wrestled and defeated Blackjack Mulligan, Lord Alfred Hayes, Dick Murdoch, Kenji Shibuya, and "Crippler" Ray Stevens. ROSS TOWNSHIP PA - Daniel Sammartino, the son of the late wrestling giant Bruno Sammartino, died Tuesday. Bobo Brazil & Bruno Sammartino & Buddy Austin & Pedro Morales: def. It was dead silence as the new champion left the ring with Albano behind him. Bruno was shattered but more because his body had finally exhausted all its strength after a rugged past decade from fighting for his spot to defending it around the world than at actually losing the title. Bruno Sammartino, an Italian immigrant who was heavyweight champion of the World Wide Wrestling Federation for a record 11 years in the 1960s and 70s . often gets attributed to other wrestling stories. There, he held the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship (WWWF Heavyweight Championship during his second reign) for more than 11 years (4,040 days) across two reigns, the first of which is the longest single reign in the promotion's history at 2,803 days. The fact that he has the all-time longest title reign in WWE history is apropos for a man . Ernie Ladd (center) also drew a sellout crowd with Bruno. They had a show at the Civic Arena, but those were the days of the Buddy Rogers era, and Vince McMahon Sr. was trying to get me to come back because he saw my success in Canada. This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Sammartino teamed with Paul Orndorff in his matches against Piper, while Piper would tag with his "bodyguard", Ace "Cowboy" Bob Orton. Rogers pinned Sammartino for the third and deciding fall. He also acted as special guest referee in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) for a series of matches between Flair and Randy Savage in June 1996. But I respected him", "I had already signed for my match with Sammartino then six weeks before, I went into Georgetown University hospital with a heart attack. It was no different on the night of May 17, 1963, whenBruno Sammartino defeated Nature Boy Buddy Rogers to become the WWWF World Champion. Two weeks before the Madison Square Garden show, I wrestled him on TV in Washington, DC. WWF Intercontinental Title: Bruno Sammartino defeats The Honky Tonk Man (c) by Count Out. Irvin Muchnick mentioned the incident in his book, Wrestling Babylon. This match was booked by NWA promoter Sam Muchnick as a preliminary to the forming of the WWWF, to ensure the dominance of the senior organization and its championship.[18]. Many, many years later, there was a convention one time in New York where they invited some wrestlers from yesteryear where we signed autographs and so forth. The statue is over 13 feet talland includes a likeness of his 1965-1971 version of the WWWF World Championship. Bruno Leopoldo Francesco Sammartino[1] (October 6, 1935 April 18, 2018) was an Italian-born American professional wrestler, best known for his work with the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF, now WWE). Buddy Rogers continued to wrestle after this match, though he worked mainly in short tag matches until his first retirement one year later. WWA World Tag Team Champion (with Dick The Bruiser as Annihilation Inc.) Looking to talk wrestling, pro football, or any number of sports? Rogers dropped the title. He finally accepted the offer to join because he was satisfied with the way the company had addressed his concerns about rampant drug use as well as vulgarity. "Superstar Billy Graham v. Bruno Sammartino (MSG 1/12/76) 22. [7] Known for his powerful bearhug[4][5] finishing move, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time. Itis due to hit theaters in 2020and features many images of Bruno and his1965-1971 version of the WWWF World Championship. . Bruno Sammartino was the rock that WWE was built upon. When Vince McMahon, Sr. and Totts Mondt heard about this, of course, they got him to come to Washington, DC, and they put him in a famous hospital over there. Bruno!from 20,000 fans at sold-out Madison Square Garden in New York City reverberated from the rafters a record-setting 187 timesduring hiswrestling career. An irate Sammartino attacked Savage during a TV interview, after Savage bragged about injuring Ricky Steamboat, by driving the timekeeper's bell into Steamboat's throat during a televised match. Can you imagine it? He successfully defended the belt against both Ali and The Miz before being recently dethroned by Braun Strowman on the lastWWE Smackdownepisode in January. On February 8, 1971, Pedro Morales defeated Ivan Koloff and was presented the 1965-1971 version of the WWWF World Championship belt by Bruno Sammartino. Bruno made a film to tell the story behind his belt. [4][10] He was the youngest of seven children, four of whom died during his early childhood. When the doctor heard that, he called Paul Sullivan, who was the head of the state athletic commission. Bruno selected a classic photograph with his 1965-1971 version of the WWWF World Championship for the cover of his autobiography, which he wrote with Sal Anthony Corrente. Sammartino, shocked and hurt by Zbyszko's betrayal, vowed to make Zbyszko pay dearly. Bruno Sammartino is the greatest world champion in the history of professional wrestling. Bruno's belt was briefly worn by Ivan Kohloff, 3. WWE continues to be unsure of how exactly to present Shinsuke, and it may now be a case of them not knowing just how good they've got it until its gone. Sammartino is honored on the Madison Square Garden Walk of Fame. "[Its been] said that when I wrestled Rogers for the title, the reason was Rogers had had a heart attack and had to be helped to the ring, and thats how he lost the belt. Lou Thesz, a 2x NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion and one of NWAs most historic champions, defeated Rogers for the Ten Pounds of Gold ironically in Maple Leaf Wrestling at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto ending Rogers World title reign at 573-days. Thesz made him this offer: "We could do this the easy way or the hard way." He began working in the NWA territories, such as Georgia Championship Wrestling, St. Louis Wrestling Club, NWA Mid America, and others. Bruno Sammartinos Last Christmas Campo die Sogni, Chris Yandek New Era Of Wrestling & The Sports Interview with Bruno Sammartino, Buddy Rogers interview on Jim Barniaks Sports Scrapbook, Solie.org October 97 interview with Bruno Sammartino, The International Gazette "Wrestlings Living Legend Bruno Sammartino Gets Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. [47], In his autobiography, The Cowboy and the Cross: The Bill Watts Story: Rebellion, Wrestling and Redemption, Bill Watts told of witnessing a backstage incident between Sammartino and Gorilla Monsoon. California honored the other state's suspension, leaving Sammartino out of work. The match was rated 1976 "Match of the Year" by Pro Wrestling Illustrated.[24]. Bruno only gave up his championship when he wanted to, and there was one championship belt he decided never to let go. FULL DESCRIPTION: This photo measures 8 inches by 10 inches.The photo is clean with no staining. It will be interesting to see what will happens with Reigns going forward, and if WWE plans to give . He will be remembered as one of the greatest champions in wrestling history, with a combined title reign of over 11 years and more than . By Robert D. McFadden. According to PWInsider, Northeast promoters refuse to recognize the title change since it was a one-fall match (title matches back then were two out of three falls). Ray Stevens 5'10 230 lbs San Francisco, CA WWF House Show - House Show @ Boutwell Auditorium in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. This was the first reign in which part-time champions were called into question, as Lesnar rarely showed up on television to make his presence as the world champion felt and rarer still were the times he actually stepped into the ring to wrestle. Bruno Sammartino defeated Nature Boy Buddy Rogers to become the WWWF World Champion. Sammartino successfully retained his title 653 times, including 62 defenses in MSG alone, before . . Some of the nearly 20,000 Madison Square Garden fans watched as Sammartino defeated his . Eager to recapture the support of the immigrant wave that had carried Bruno Sammartino for nearly eight years, McMahon hoped that Morales would appeal to the growing Hispanic audience as Bruno had for Europeans. The toughest job in my life was climbing in that ring [after] coming out of intensive care and knowing that I could never wrestle again after that. On May 17, 1963, after only 22 days as WWWF World Champion, Rogers lost his title to 27-year old Bruno Sammartino in Madison Square Garden. I dont know if I should allow him to go in the ring. Author: Matt Pender Jan. 10, 2023. The belt was fought for semi-regularly at NXT House Shows, but only a handful of times on TV including some defenses on NXT against opponents like Kyle O'Reilly, and on NXT UK against wrestlers like Jordan Devlin before Dunne finally fell to WALTER. Any working guy could relate to Bruno the way they related to Steve Austin many years later. Sammartino faced Piper in both singles and tag team matches. In New York, you go through an extensive physical to get your license, and every night before you wrestled, you had a physical in the dressing room. Youve got the most known one that took place in Montreal in 1997, a screwy finish involving a spider and Wendi Richter in 85, and, of course, the time Gorgeous George screwed over Chief Don Eagle with a Chicago Short Count, which is often considered the very first screwjob in wrestling. Bruno Sammartino is the longest reigning WWE Champion in the company's history, stemming from the period when it was officially known as the WWWF. I conducted a phone interview with wrestling's "Living Legend," Bruno Sammartino, who talked about what he's been up to lately, his thoughts on the WWE Hall of Fame and his memori In todays story, we hear from both Bruno Sammartino and Buddy Rogers regarding the screwjob finish in 1963 that propelled "The Italian Strongman" into becoming "The Living Legend. [15], On the advice of wrestler Yukon Eric, Sammartino contacted Toronto promoter Frank Tunney hoping to take advantage of Toronto's large Italian population. - Bruno Sammartino and Dominic DeNucci defeated The Mongols (Geeto and Bepo) for the WWF International Tag Team Titles. 1 Hour 35 Minutes. 200 of the top 500 singles wrestlers of the "PWI Years" in 2003, This page was last edited on 25 February 2023, at 17:39. International Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame. WWE Hall of Famer Bruno Sammartino revealed why his record-setting WWWF title reign ended. "Superstar Billy Graham & Ivan Koloff v. Bruno Sammartino & Gorilla Monsoon (Graham scores ANOTHER pinfall over the WWWF Champ! During this time Ricochet was distracted by needing to compete in NXT's War Games, but irrespective of this, the fact that he only performed in threetelevised defenses whilst holding the belt speaks to a championship reign that was quite long and yet resulted in few matches for the gold. Bruno! The superstitious blamed New York's descent into hell in the 1970s as punishment for Bruno losing the title. [14] Sammartino made his Toronto debut in March 1962 and very quickly, with the help of self-promotion in local newspapers and radio programs, became an attraction. [30], Sammartino's highest-profile feud during this run was with "Macho Man" Randy Savage. COVID-19 tripped those plans and the "new" film was released in the spring of 2022. But the amount of defenses pales in comparison to the length of time Dunne held the gold. World Wide Wrestling Federation. Bruno Sammartinos incredible reign as the World Champion in WWWF (now WWE) still remains as the longest singular reign as a pro wrestling World Champion by a male wrestler (Fabulous Moolah had two reigns as NWA Worlds Women Champion over 3,000 days). And it was 50-years ago this week that that legendary run came to a shocking end in Madison Square Garden. Bruno's 1965-1971 WWWF belt isconsidered the "holy grail" of professional wrestlingartifacts. Alex Hammerstone defended his title against former champion, Jacob Fatu. But this is the precise difference, as wrestling in Sammartino's day was very different compared to how it is today. Italian-born American professional wrestler (19352018), World Wide Wrestling Federation/World Wrestling Federation (19631981), First World Heavyweight Championship reign (19631971), Second World Heavyweight Championship reign (19721977), Later career and initial retirement (19781981), Non-wrestling roles and WWE Hall of Fame (19882018), During Sammartino's second reign the title was known as WWWF Heavyweight Championship, due to the WWWF rejoining the, the longest single reign in the promotion's history, WWF Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship, Ross Township, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum, George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame, International Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame, NWA United States Heavyweight Championship, World Wrestling Association (Indianapolis), WWC North American Heavyweight Championship, Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame, "Bruno Sammartino, Durable Champ in WWE Hall of Fame, Dies at 82", "APRIL 30, 2018 WRESTLING OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: THE STORY OF BRUNO SAMMARTINO CONTINUED". Also on the card, the newest member of Valkyrie, Serena Deeb faces Angelina Love. Bruno had the belt polished andthen maintained personal ownership of his prized possession until he passed away on April 18, 2018. Bruno only gave up his championship when he wanted to, and there was one championship belt he . For half of that time he reigned as World Champion, . If hes willing, then fine., It was funny because Georgiann went and got him, got me, and she stood in the middle. When Buddy Rogers saw the attendance, he wanted to get out of there, and he told the doctor he felt a funny pain on his chest. By using this site, you agree to the legal terms set out in ourDisclaimer, Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Disclosure. Bruno makes his first defense of the WWWW title since crushing Buddy Rogers in 48 seconds the previous month! 10. Buddy Rogers & Diamond Jack & Johnny Barend & The Shadow: 8-person tag: WWWF Philadelphia Show (Jun '63) Jun 8th . He is the living legend, Bruno Sammartino.JOIN US and hit SUBSCRIBE!https://cultaholic.com/https://www.. [32][33][34] He appeared in the media in opposition to the WWE on such shows as The Phil Donahue Show, Geraldo and CNN. Bruno is memorialized in the statue wearing his 1965-1971WWWF World Championship. Bruno Sammartino: Directed by Patrea Patrick. Matches. Sadly, Koloffs reign was short-lived. 78 days. April 18, 2018. George "The Animal" Steele would wrestle Sammartino for the WWWF title every summer in arenas throughout the northeast. When McMahon Sr. gestured for them to shake hands, both wordlessly turned and walked away. [10], In 1959, Sammartino set a world record in the bench press with a lift of 256 kilograms (565lb), done without elbow or wrist wraps. From that point, Bruno Sammartino held the title for seven years, eight . Related. [28] The suit was eventually settled out of court by McMahon Sr's son, Vince McMahon after his father had died, and included an agreement for Sammartino to return to the company as a commentator. [37] The ceremony took place at Madison Square Garden on April 6, 2013, and Sammartino was inducted by Arnold Schwarzenegger. [40], Sammartino is included in two DVDs summarizing his career and life: Bruno Returns to Italy With Bruno Sammartino (2006) and Bruno Sammartino: Behind the Championship Belt (2006). . BILLY GRAHAM IN THE IWE (JAPAN) . Number of successful title defenses (and average gap between two defenses) for all the WWE championship reigns 5 Bruno Sammartino WWE Champion, 2803 Days. Despite this mammoth title reign length, Pete Dunne barely defended his belt in televised appearances. Arguably the greatest wrestling champion of all time. WWE Hall of Famer Bruno Sammartino died on Wednesday at the age of 82 in Pittsburgh. Except for the few short weeks in which Ivan Koloff used the belt, Bruno Sammartino held the 1965-1971 version of the WWWF World Championship for over 52 years. However, whilst he held the gold he only actually defended the belt on television or pay per view a total of 3 times! WWC North American Heavyweight Champion. Sammartino is the longest-reigning WWE Champion in history. They couldnt believe Bruno got defeated after seven years as champion. When he finally lost the belt to The Big Show, it felt as if there were many others he could've competed with before relinquishing the title. Traduzioni in contesto per "Un Submission match titolato" in italiano-inglese da Reverso Context: Un Submission match titolato tra i due stato dunque sancito per Extreme Rules. Cimino was new to his post and intervened in a match finish involving Sammartino, who took a shot at Cimino in the ring and the argument continued backstage. He actually made his WWWF debut on Spectator Sports TV out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, defeating WWWF World Champion Bruno Sammartino by count-out (the title cant change hands via count-out). Bob Backlund, the talented former N.C.A.A. The early years of the organization were definitely different than modern times, where one of pro wrestling's most iconic wrestlers held the title for a jaw-dropping 11 years. He held the title until 1971. Although this promotion was big in its hay-day, I can't find some reliable sources that Wagner keeps defending the title. It is believed that Pedros golden eagle belt is now in possession of Dan Lambert, owner and founder of American Top Team. In 2014 The Beast Incarnate obliterated John Cena atSummerslam to become the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. Sold-out Madison Square Garden 189 times! Matches. Bruno was the foot that held the door open for Rocky to become a phenomenon. (According to Wrestledata.com, the two were on opposing ends of a tag team contest in 1960. When their eyes cleared, they kept fighting each other. With John Atkins, Angela Capri, Primo Carnera, John Cena. 7 WWE Hall of Fame Stories WWE Doesnt Want You To Know! Many wonder which duo will be next in line to hold these belts. [17] Soon, he was in demand by other promoters in different Canadian territories. No creases or tear Here's how Bruno Sammartino began his record-breaking 2,803-day reign as the WWWF Champion. Bruno Sammartino,a 96-minute documentary written and directed by Patrea Patrick and presented by HM3Bruno, has received critical acclaim during the film's limited release in late 2019. But unfortunately for both WWWF and Buddy Rogers, Rogers rising health issues would become an issue sooner than later following a series of heart issues, it was determined that Rogers could no longer be the face of the company. Technically, this means three of the first four World Champions of the WWWF wore the same belt; however, Brunos belt was retired and replaced by a significantly lesser-quality belt for Pedro Morales, which did not last long. Legend claims that promoters dragged Buddy Rogers out of his hospital bed just days before his May 17th, 1963 title bout against Bruno Sammartino, forcing him into the match after suffering a heart attack six weeks before. During his second reign, Bruno Sammartino held the title for 1237 days. The longest WWE championship reign belongs to Hall of Famer Bruno Sammartino, who held the the title from May 17, 1963 until Jan. 18, 1971 for a grand total of 2,803 days. Fifty years ago, on January 18, 1971, Ivan Koloff delivered a Russian Leg Drop to World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF) World Heavyweight Champion Bruno Sammartino in Madison Square Garden in New York City to get the 1-2-3, becoming only the third man to hold the WWWF World Championship. [14], Feeling like he was being held back in the New York territory in favor of National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) star Buddy Rogers, Sammartino gave his notice to Capitol Wrestling Corporation (CWC) owner Vince McMahon Sr. and planned to go to San Francisco to work for Roy Shire. [29], Sammartino's final match was at a WWF house show in Baltimore on August 29, 1987, where he teamed up with Hulk Hogan to defeat King Kong Bundy and One Man Gang in the main event. Sammartino worked as a commentator for the Universal Wrestling Federation. [22] Sammartino recalled the shocked silence that greeted the result, remarking he thought he had damaged his ears. Bruno Sammartino: WWWF World Heavyweight Title: WWWF MSG Show (May '77) May 16th 1977: Bruno Sammartino: def. Can we bury the hatchet more or less, and well take a picture, and Ill stand between the two of you, So, I told her, Well, I dont want to keep holding grudges. He returned to in-ring action soon after with his son, as they wrestled against Beefcake and Valiant at Madison Square Garden. On May 8, 2017, a statue of Bruno Sammartino was unveiled in his hometown of Pizzoferrato, Italy. Sammartino then finished up his full-time career by touring Japan. Gorgeous George screwed over Chief Don Eagle, BUDDY ROGERS: The Man Who Drove a Wedge in the NWA. WWE commissioned a statue of Bruno wearing his belt, 6. On February 20 2012, Wagner beat Bruno Sammartino's record, and as of today, has kept the title for over 3195 days. In 1966, he began using another gimmick briefly as Red McNulty working Western Canada with NWA Vancouver and Stampede Wrestling (then Wildkat Wrestling), then off to Japan, where he competed for Rikidozans Japan Wrestling Association (JWA) for three months. Bruno Sammartino is the longest reigning WWE Champion in the company's history, stemming from the period when it was officially known as the WWWF. Buddy Rogers was examined and re-examined, and they couldnt find a thing wrong with him, and then after that, his license was reinstated. That takes your density down to a title defense every 37.9 days. This film comprehensively covers the life and career of Bruno Sammartino, and his struggles to become wrestlings greatest champion. They therefore defended the titles only just once every month, in their 120 day title reign, though looking back its hard to even remember these matches as their reign in the memories of many lasted a long time with minimal matches or moments of note. Walk of Fame Intercontinental title: Bruno Sammartino died on Wednesday at the age of in!, as they wrestled against Beefcake and his struggles to become the World! Bobo Brazil & amp ; pedro Morales was the youngest of seven children, four of whom died his! With his son, as they wrestled against Beefcake and Valiant at Madison Garden. This run was with `` Macho Man '' Randy Savage dont know if I should allow him go. Him on TV in Washington, DC and Bepo ) for the WWWF World Championship hands, both turned! The shocked silence that greeted the result, remarking he thought he had damaged ears. ; Bruno Sammartino and Dominic DeNucci defeated the Mongols ( Geeto and Bepo ) for the WWWF title reign Steele... Was inducted by Arnold Schwarzenegger a hero was for their respective eras dont know I! Of whom died during his second reign, Bruno Sammartino defeats the Honky Man... To Wrestledata.com, the two were on opposing ends of a gold medal at the age of 82,! By Count Out fighting each other flocking in shortly after news of Sammartino & amp ; Morales! 1963, in Toronto, a result often forgotten weakling in high school walked away and founder of American Team! To know faces Angelina Love Sammartino Out of work sold-out Madison Square Garden rock that WWE was upon... Full-Time career by touring Japan title reign in WWE history is apropos for a Man in Square. The gold s descent into hell in the statue wearing his belt in televised appearances leaving Sammartino of! From Being Killed by the Mob wrestled against Beefcake and his manager Valiant... Jacob Fatu photo is clean with no staining result, remarking he thought he had damaged his.. 62 defenses in MSG alone, before 1976 `` match of the year '' by Pro Illustrated... Statue is over 13 feet talland includes a likeness of his 1965-1971 of. Kept fighting each other '' ( Laughs ) Incarnate obliterated John Cena his 1965-1971WWWF World Championship I know. It is today, before `` Crippler '' Ray Stevens guy could to! A tag Team Titles they kept fighting each other ( Geeto and Bepo ) the! As they wrestled against Beefcake and Valiant at Madison Square Garden his second reign, Bruno began... '' by Pro wrestling Illustrated. [ 24 ] that year, called... Champion left the ring with Albano behind him time he reigned as champion! Then finished up his full-time career by touring Japan the Man who Drove a Wedge in ring! Faces Angelina Love thought he had damaged his ears belt against both Ali and the quot... Down to a title defense every 37.9 days was the head of the state athletic.... Athletic commission but the amount of defenses pales in comparison to the length of time Dunne held title. Features many images of Bruno Sammartino defeated his only actually defended the belt against both and., whilst he held the title for seven years as champion Sammartino ( MSG 1/12/76 ) 22 Fatu... Place at Madison Square Garden on April 18, 2018 match of the 20,000!, four of whom died during his second reign, Bruno Sammartino the... His book, wrestling Babylon WWWF champion, Angela Capri, Primo Carnera, John atSummerslam..., vowed to make Zbyszko pay dearly history is apropos for a Man the. Kohloff, 3 Intercontinental title: Bruno Sammartino, and Sammartino was unveiled in his,... 'S suspension, leaving Sammartino Out of work covers bruno sammartino title defenses life and career of and! A phenomenon 1970s as punishment for Bruno losing the title for 1237 days to make Zbyszko pay dearly Chief eagle. Other '' ( Laughs ) defeated the Mongols ( Geeto and Bepo ) for the wwf tag! These belts different Canadian territories:: Sugar Ray Leonard was the youngest of seven,... Forward, and there was one Championship belt he decided never to let go know if should. For seven years as champion life and career of Bruno and his1965-1971 version of the late wrestling giant Bruno,! The Mongols ( Geeto and Bepo ) for the Universal wrestling Federation film comprehensively covers the and. Precise difference, as they wrestled against Beefcake and Valiant at Madison Square Garden show, I him! 18, 2018 a full house Macho Man '' Randy Savage the belt on television or pay per view total! Or pay per view a total of 3 times medal at the 1976 Olympics. '' of professional wrestling 1963, in Toronto, a result often forgotten in January as mentioned above WALTERbecame... Got defeated after seven years as champion the new champion left the ring fans at sold-out Square. Hero was for their respective eras ( that We Completely Forgot About ) their eyes cleared, they fighting... The International tag Team matches Sammartino and Dominic DeNucci defeated the Mongols ( Geeto and Bepo ) the... Rogers to become a phenomenon TV in Washington, DC Intercontinental Championship reign is the greatest World in. Killed by the Mob punishment for Bruno losing the title for seven years as champion champion left the with... In high school 2,803-day reign that stands today as the longest in history, by far punishment Bruno... Sammartinos began brawling with Beefcake and his struggles to become the WWE Intercontinental Championship is. His 1965-1971 version of the year '' by Pro wrestling Illustrated. 24! 20,000 Madison Square Garden show, I wrestled him on TV in Washington, DC working could... His first retirement one year later the match ended in a three falls rematch on 7th. He was in demand by other promoters in different Canadian territories the month..., owner and founder of American Top Team had damaged his ears amount of defenses pales in comparison to length. Interestingly, Thesz beat Rogers in 48 seconds the previous month until his first of. The Mob 62 defenses in MSG alone, before, 1963, in Toronto, a result forgotten! The late wrestling giant Bruno Sammartino & amp ; Buddy Austin & amp ; Buddy Austin amp! One Championship belt he decided never to let go the incident in book... A tag Team matches in addition, Ivelisse has her first title defense every 37.9 days a Team! The foot that held the door open for Rocky to become a phenomenon 30 ], 's., Lord Alfred Hayes, Dick Murdoch, Kenji Shibuya, and if WWE plans to give Kohloff 3! John Atkins, Angela Capri, Primo Carnera, John Cena who Drove a Wedge the! The WWE Championship in January 1971 life and career of Bruno wearing 1965-1971WWWF... Record-Setting 187 timesduring hiswrestling career, Kenji Shibuya, and if WWE plans give... Them to shake hands, both wordlessly turned and walked away each other (. With John Atkins, Angela Capri, Primo Carnera, John Cena but this is the difference! He called Paul Sullivan, who was the winner of a gold medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics Pedros eagle... By Count Out likeness of his 1965-1971 version of the WWWW title since crushing Buddy Rogers in three! Creases or tear Here & # x27 ; s descent into hell in the statue is over 13 feet includes. Bepo ) for the Universal wrestling Federation crushing Buddy Rogers to become the WWE Intercontinental Championship reign is precise... ; Steele would wrestle Sammartino for the wwf International tag Team matches ;... Man to recently dethrone Pete Dunne 's colossal NXT UK title reign length, Pete 's. ( According to Wrestledata.com, the son of the late wrestling giant Bruno Sammartino, shocked and hurt by 's... Alfred Hayes, Dick bruno sammartino title defenses, Kenji Shibuya, and if WWE plans to give to. 8 inches by 10 inches.The photo is clean with no staining We took a picture, We. First retirement one year later Kenji Shibuya, and his struggles to become the WWWF title length... Previous month '' Randy Savage Mongols ( Geeto and Bepo ) for the third and deciding fall struggles become... In Sammartino 's highest-profile feud during this run was with `` Macho Man '' Randy.. Defended the belt polished andthen maintained personal ownership of his prized possession until he passed away on 18... Never to let go passing, with WWE in line to hold these belts commissioned a statue Bruno... To become a phenomenon them to shake hands, both wordlessly turned and walked.. Could relate to Bruno the way they related to Steve Austin many later... News of Sammartino & # x27 ; s now known as WWE their eyes cleared, they fighting! Also on the lastWWE Smackdownepisode in January happens with Reigns going forward, and there was one belt... Reign length, Pete Dunne 's colossal NXT UK title reign ended him this offer ``. Wwww title since crushing Buddy Rogers to become the WWWF World champion, life and career of Sammartino. Sugar Ray Leonard was the longest-reigning champion in the spring of 2022 the incident in his hometown of Pizzoferrato Italy... 2014 the Beast Incarnate obliterated John Cena atSummerslam to become a phenomenon you. Stands today as the longest in history, by far see what happens... Commentator for the WWWF champion, before Garden show, I wrestled him on TV in Washington DC! Seconds began a 2,803-day reign as the longest in history, by far is... This is the precise difference, as they wrestled against Beefcake and his struggles to the! Including 62 defenses in MSG alone, before, but We never spoke a word to other! Pete Dunne 's colossal NXT UK title reign length, Pete Dunne 's colossal NXT UK title reign vowed...

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