The 1980s were a time of seismic change for the WWE. From the ascent of Hulk Hogan and the rise of pay-per-view events, to the creation of WrestleMania and the dawn of a new era in sports entertainment, this decade saw the wrestling world rocked to its very core.
With larger-than-life characters, jaw-dropping athleticism, and storylines that captivated audiences around the world, the 1980s were a time of unparalleled excitement and spectacle in the world of professional wrestling. But beneath the surface of the glitz and glamour were a ton of faces that eventually became familiar. This list will examine 10 wrestlers who fans forgot competed for the WWE in the 1980s.
10 Scott Hall
Scott Hall, also known as Razor Ramon, had a long and storied career in the WWE. He burst onto the scene in the early 90s with his trademark toothpick toss and swag, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Hall's in-ring skills were equally impressive, with his smooth technical wrestling style and powerful finisher, the Razor's Edge.
Razor Ramon didn't make his debut in the WWE until 1992, but Scott Hall wrestled his first match for the company in 1987. At a forgotten WWE house show, Barry Horowitz & Iron Mike Sharpe defeated Jerry Allen & Scott Hall.
9 Lou Thesz
Lou Thesz is a legend of professional wrestling, with a career spanning several decades. He was known for his incredible strength, technical prowess, and intense athleticism. Thesz's matches were a masterclass in strategy and skill, with each move carefully calculated to outsmart his opponent.
His signature move, the "Lou Thesz Press," was feared by wrestlers worldwide, and he was known for his ability to adapt to any situation. Thesz's legacy in the world of wrestling is unmatched, and his impact on the sport continues to be felt to this day. Thesz competed in one match for the WWE in 1987. It was a battle royal and Thesz was 71 years old.
8 Ken Shamrock
Ken Shamrock, a former UFC Champion, made his major WWE debut in 1997, becoming one of the company's most popular wrestlers. His unique blend of athleticism and fighting skills made him a formidable opponent in the ring. Shamrock's WWE career was marked by a series of high-profile feuds, including battles with The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and Bret Hart. His signature moves, including the ankle lock and the belly-to-belly suplex, became fan favorites. Ken Shamrock made his actual WWE debut jobbing for Barry Horowitz at a WWE house show in 1989.
7 Buddy Rogers
Buddy Rogers, the original "Nature Boy," was a flamboyant and charismatic wrestler who was known for his flashy moves and larger-than-life personality. Rogers was the first WWE Champion, winning the title in 1963 after defeating Bruno Sammartino in a controversial match.
He was also a multiple-time NWA Champion, and he helped usher in a new era of sports entertainment. Buddy Rogers wrestled his last WWE match in a forgotten tag match in 1982. In that bout, Rogers and Jimmy Snuka defeated Captain Lou Albano & Ray Stevens.
6 Gene Okerlund
Gene Okerlund was a legendary WWE announcer whose career spanned four decades. He was known for his quick wit, sharp tongue, and ability to capture the audience's attention with his unique style. Okerlund was a fixture of the WWE during the 80s and 90s, interviewing some of the biggest stars in wrestling history. His infectious personality and larger-than-life persona made him a fan favorite, and his contributions to the industry cannot be overstated. Gene Okerlund wrestled one match in the WWE. In 1984, He & Hulk Hogan defeated George Steele & Mr. Fuji.
5 Rikishi
Rikishi's WWE career was a mesmerizing journey filled with exhilarating moments and unforgettable matches. From his early days in the Samoan SWAT Team to his run as a member of Too Cool, Rikishi's unique blend of size, athleticism, and charisma made him one of the most beloved superstars of his era. Whether it was his trademark Stinkface or his awe-inspiring Banzai Drop, Rikishi always found ways to captivate audiences and leave them wanting more. Rikishi made his official WWE debut as "Alofa" at an International Wrestling/WWE event in 1986.
4 Shane Douglas
Shane Douglas may be a familiar name to some wrestling fans, but his lack of prominence in WWE may leave others wondering exactly who he is. However, his impact on professional wrestling is notable, particularly in ECW and WCW during the 90s.
Despite not receiving the recognition he deserved during his time in WWE, his career has been extensive and impressive, with many noteworthy accomplishments that fans should be aware of. Shane Douglas wrestled his first WWE match for the IC title against Randy Savage in 1986. He wrestled under the ring name "Troy Martin" in that first match.
3 Antonio Inoki
Antonio Inoki is a legendary figure in the world of professional wrestling. He began his career in the 1960s and quickly gained a reputation as a formidable competitor. Inoki was known for his intense style and unique approach to wrestling, incorporating elements of martial arts and other combat sports into his matches.
Throughout his career, Inoki faced off against some of the biggest names in wrestling. He also founded his own wrestling promotion, New Japan Pro Wrestling, which has become one of the most successful and influential organizations in the industry. Antonio Inoki only wrestled a handful of matches in the WWE. From 1980 to 1985 he competed in 5 matches for the company.
2 Bobo Brazil
Bobo Brazil was a legendary wrestler whose impact on the sport and American entertainment cannot be overstated. Despite his many accomplishments, he is still not given the credit he deserves for his contribution to changing the course of history. Often regarded as the "Jackie Robinson" of wrestling, Bobo's wrestling career began over 14 years before the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed, and paved the way for greater diversity in American entertainment. Bobo Brazil wrestled his last WWE matches in the 1980s, including his last televised match against Big John Studd.
1 Gangrel
Gangrel burst onto the scene in the late 1990s as a member of The Brood, a faction known for their unique Gothic style and vampire-like gimmick. Despite his initial success, Gangrel struggled to maintain momentum and eventually left the WWE in 2001. Gangrel wrestled one match in the 80s against The Big Boss Man.