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List of oldest surviving professional wrestlers

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Abe Coleman celebrating his 100th birthday in 2005.

This is a list of oldest surviving professional wrestlers. As of 2017, there are 42 living veterans from the "Golden Age of Wrestling" (1950s–1970s) over 75 years old. The last surviving wrestler from the "Pioneer Era" (1900s–1940s) was American wrestler Angelo Savoldi (born April 21, 1914, died September 13, 2013, aged 99 years, 145 days). The title of the oldest verified wrestler of all time belongs to Polish-born American wrestler Abe Coleman (1905–2007), who lived 101 years, 189 days. The oldest person ever to be involved in the wrestling industry was promoter Harry Elliott (1904–2006), aged 101 years, 314 days.

The current oldest male living to be involved in the wrestling industry is retired WCCW announcer Bill Mercer, aged 98 from the United States. The oldest male living retired wrestler is Cowboy Bob Ellis, aged 95 (also American). The oldest female wrestler was Princess Bonita (1919–2014), aged 94 years, 273 days. The oldest female to be involved in the wrestling industry was Gorgeous George's valet Betty Wagner, who lived to the age of 98.

The oldest female wrestler to have a match is Mae Young, who defeated LayCool in a WWE Raw handicap match on November 15, 2010, at the age of 87. The oldest male wrestler to have a match is Dory Funk Jr., who wrestled in a tag team deathmatch in Japan aged 83.

List

[edit]

Oldest wrestlers ever

[edit]
Rank Name Sex Age Birth Death Notes
1 Harry Elliott M 101 years, 313 days August 16, 1904 June 25, 2006 Was the promoter of Seattle wrestling, from 1958 to 1969 he was the sole promoter in Washington, Idaho, and Northeast Oregon. Oldest in the wrestling industry ever verified.[1]
2 Abe Coleman M 101 years, 189 days September 20, 1905 March 28, 2007 Oldest wrestler ever verified.[2]
3 Joe D'Orazio M 99 years, 225 days July 27, 1922 March 9, 2022 Referee, and British Wrestlers Reunion President until BWR ended in January 2022 after 30 years.
4 Angelo Savoldi M 99 years, 152 days April 21, 1914 September 20, 2013 Last surviving veteran of the "Pioneer Era".
5 Jackie Stallone F 98 years, 297 days November 29, 1921 September 21, 2020 Manager and promoter for Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling from 1986 to 1989. Mother of Sylvester Stallone.
6 Bill Mercer M 98 years, 269 days February 13, 1926 Living Voice of World Class Championship Wrestling.
7 Dan McLeod M 98 years, 6 days June 14, 1860 June 20, 1958 Last surviving American Heavyweight Champion and veteran of the "Farmer" Burns-Frank Gotch era.[2]
8 Betty Wagner F 98 years 1912–1913 June 3, 2011 First wife and valet of Gorgeous George.[3]
9 Jarvis Astaire M 97 years, 319 days October 6, 1923 August 21, 2021 Promoter for Joint Promotions in the United Kingdom in the early 1970s.
10 Pedro Septién M 97 years, 273 days March 21, 1916 December 19, 2013 Mexican actor, wrestling announcer and baseball broadcaster.
11 Gerry Hoggarth M 97 years, 119 days April 17, 1922 August 14, 2019 Began his career in the 1940s. source Cauliflower Alley Club
12 Luis Magana M 97 years 1910 March 23, 2008 Spanish announcer in boxing and wrestling in Los Angeles
13 Jack LaLanne M 96 years, 119 days September 26, 1914 January 23, 2011 World-famous fitness guru had a brief pro wrestling career in 1938.
14 Milo Steinborn M 95 years, 328 days March 18, 1893 February 9, 1989 Promoted wrestling in Florida[2]
15 “Cowboy” Bob Ellis M 95 years, 238 days March 15, 1929 Living Inventor of the bulldog.
16 Abe Jacobs M 95 years, 125 days April 18, 1928 August 21, 2023 New Zealand wrestler. Former NWA World Tag Team Champion.
17 Hélio Gracie M 95 years, 120 days October 1, 1913 January 29, 2009 Brazilian martial artist who wrestled occasionally.
18 Meshulam Riklis M 95 years, 54 days December 2, 1923 January 25, 2019 Turkish-Israeli businessman that owned Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling from 1986 to 2001.
19 Andrew Tsimpides M 95 years, 34 days August 16, 1916 September 19, 2011 Former manager of Gorgeous George
20 Princess Bonita F 94 years, 273 days May 31, 1919 February 28, 2014 Oldest female, mainly wrestled as Princess White Dove
21 Darkie Arnott M 94 years, 240 days July 24, 1029 March 20, 2024 Northern Irish wrestler and referee
22 Samson Burke M 94 years, 214 days April 8, 1930 Living Canadian Wrestler actor, bodybuilder, wrestler, swimmer. Known as Sammy Berg during his wrestling career.
23 Fritz Von Goering M 94 years, 135 days March 31, 1930 August 13, 2024 Former NWA Pacific Northwest Heavyweight Champion
24 Don Brinton M 94 years, 121 days October 3, 1927 February 1, 2022 Canadian broadcaster. Won the Order of Canada. Promoter for AWA in Winnpieg from 1979 to 1986.
25 Lloyd Antonation M 94 years, 111 days December 22, 1922 April 10, 2017 Wrestled only in Winnipeg, Canada.

Oldest female wrestlers ever

[edit]
Rank Name Sex Age Birth Death Notes
1 Princess Bonita F 94 years, 273 days May 31, 1919 February 28, 2014 Oldest female, mainly wrestled as Princess White Dove
2 Mae Young F 90 years, 308 days March 12, 1923 January 14, 2014 Oldest person to wrestle ever at 87 years old. Wrestled for WWF from 1999 to 2000, 2004 and 2010.
3 Lorraine Johnson F 90 years, 217 days March 2, 1930 October 5, 2020 [4]
4 Ethel Brown F 90 years, 57 days May 25, 1931 July 21, 2021
5 Gladys Gillem F 89 years, 218 days January 6, 1920 August 12, 2009 Feuded with Mildred Burke.
6 Yukiko Tomoe F 89 years, 7 days November 1, 1935 Living Oldest living female wrestler. First Japanese woman to win the NWA World Women's Championship in 1968.
7 Kathy Starr F 88 years, 153 days June 8, 1936 Living Wrestled mainly in Hawaii.
8 Cora Combs F 88 years, 96 days March 17, 1927 June 21, 2015
9 Irma Gonzalez F 88 years, 80 days August 20, 1936 Living Wrestled mainly in Mexico and WCCW. Oldest surviving Mexican women wrestler.
10 Beverly Shade F 87 years, 74 days March 21, 1936 June 3, 2023 Wrestled in the WWF in 1980.

Oldest wrestlers currently living

[edit]
Rank Name Sex Age Birth Notes
1 Bill Mercer M 98 years, 269 days February 13, 1926 Voice of World Class Championship Wrestling.
2 “Cowboy” Bob Ellis M 95 years, 238 days March 15, 1929 Known as the inventor of the bulldog.[5]
3 Allan Pinfold M 94–95 years 1929 Wrestled in Australia and was a 3 time Australian Light Heavyweight Champion.
4 Bill Verna M 94–95 years 1929 Aussie wrestler won the British Empire/Commonwealth Heavyweight Championship.
5 Samson Burke M 94 years, 214 days April 8, 1930 Oldest Canadian Wrestler. Known as Sammy Berg. Also was a bodybuilder, swimmer, and actor.
6 Bob Caudle M 94 years, 98 days August 2, 1930 Voice of Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling. Later announced in South Atlantic Pro Wrestling and Smoky Mountain Wrestling.
7 Octavio Gaona Jr. M 93 years, 35 days October 4, 1931 Son of Octavio Gaona.
8 Hank Garrett M 93 years, 13 days October 26, 1931 Wrestled as The Minnesota Farm Boy from 1957 to 1966.
9 Nick Kozak M 92 years, 5 days November 3, 1932 Raised in Texas. Wrestled for Pacific Northwest, WCCW and NWA Georgia.
10 Steve Novak M 91 years, 350 days November 24, 1932 Wrestled in Studio Wrestling out of Pittsburgh in the 1950s and 1960s. Also wrestled as The Battling Bohemian and Red Menace.
11 Caswell Martin M 91–92 years 1932 Wrestled in the UK, Germany and Japan.
12 Keita Meretana M 90–91 years 1933 Former NWA New Zealand Heavyweight Championship
13 Dory Dixon M 90 years, 281 days February 1, 1934 First Jamaican wrestler in the WWWF.
14 Guillotine Gordon M 89 years, 299 days January 14, 1935 Wrestled in the WWWF from 1964 to 1969. Also, later on in his career he wrestled as Enforcer Luciano in NWA Hollywood.
15 Hisashi Shinma M 89 years, 231 days March 22, 1935 President of the WWF from 1978 to 1984. Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2019.
16 Horst Hoffman M 89 years, 40 days September 29, 1935 Czechoslovakian wrestler. Wrestled in Germany, France, Japan and AWA.
17 Paul Diamond M 89 years, 15 days October 24, 1935 Wrestled for NWA Vancouver and AWA from 1960 to 1972
18 Yukiko Tomoe F 89 years, 7 days November 1, 1935 Japanese female wrestler. Oldest living female wrestler. Former NWA World Women's Champion
19 Earl Maynard M 88 years, 346 days November 28, 1935 From Barbados former Mr. Universe, a bodybuilder wrestler in the 60s and 70s and teamed with Rocky Johnson. He wrestled for Pacific Northwest, Stampede, NWA, and WWWF.
20 Tony Kontellis M 88–89 years 1935 Wrestled in Australia and WWWF
21 Eddie Sharkey M 88 years, 278 days February 4, 1936 Wrestled in AWA. Owns Pro Wrestling America. Also has trained many wrestlers like Rick Rude, Bob Backlund, Jesse Ventura, etc.
22 Kathy Starr F 88 years, 153 days June 8, 1936 Wrestled mainly in Hawaii.
23 Irma Gonzalez F 88 years, 80 days August 20, 1936 Wrestled mainly in Mexico and WCCW.
24 Black Gordman M 88 years, 34 days October 5, 1936 Well known in Los Angeles, Texas and WWWF from 1972 to 1974.
25 Eddie Morrow M 87–88 years 1936 From Martinique wrestled for Pacific Northwest and Stampede Wrestling. Brother of Gerry Morrow. Resides in Calgary, Canada.
26 Mark Lewin M 87 years, 237 days March 16, 1937 Multi-time regional champion. Worked as Purple Haze.
27 Raúl Reyes M 86 years, 332 days December 12, 1937 Wrestled in Mexico.
28 Steve Veidor M 86 years, 303 days January 10, 1938 Former European Heavyweight Champion.
29 Omar Atlas M 86 years, 200 days April 22, 1938 Former NWA Central States Heavyweight Champion. Worked for WWF from 1986 to 1992.
30 Brian Maxine M 86 years, 87 days August 13, 1938 Musician and wrestler. Former British Middleweight Champion and British Welterweight Champion.
31 Harvey Smith (equestrian) M 85 years, 315 days December 29, 1938 British show jumping chmapion. Wrestled occasionally in the 1970s.
32 Lumberjack Pierre M 85 years, 269 days February 13, 1939 Former WWWF World Tag Team Champion.
33 Lars Anderson M 85 years, 239 days March 14, 1939 Five-time NWA Polynesian Pacific Heavyweight Champion.
34 Jim Herd M 85 years, 229 days March 24, 1939 Executive vice president for World Championship Wrestling from 1988 to 1992.
35 Bill Watts M 85 years, 187 days May 5, 1939 Three time NWA Florida Heavyweight Champion and promoter of Mid-South/UWF Wrestling.
36 Tinieblas M 85 years, 153 days June 8, 1939 One time WWA World Heavyweight Champion.
37 Fred Peloquin M 85 years, 7 days November 1, 1939 Known as Mad Dog Peloquin in Winnipeg and AWA. Three-time WFWA Canadian Heavyweight Champion.
38 Paul LeDuc M 84–85 1939 Brother (kayfabe) of Jos LeDuc.
39 Joe Carollo M 84 years, 228 days March 25, 1940 Former NFL football player. Had a short career in Japan and Mid-Atlantic from 1965 to 1967.
40 Bruce Swayze M 84 years, 215 days April 7, 1940 Canadian wrestler who worked as The Black Baron in Cleveland. Cousin of Patrick Swayze.

Oldest wrestlers to ever perform 70 and over

[edit]
Rank Name Sex Age in last match Birth Death Date of last match Notes
1 Mae Young F 87 years, 248 days March 12, 1923 January 14, 2014 November 15, 2010 She took part in a Falls Count Anywhere 2-on-1 Handicap Match against LayCool (Layla and Michelle McCool) on WWE's Old School Raw, when she put her foot over Layla for a pinfall victory outside the ring.
2 Dory Funk Jr. M 83 years, 203 days February 3, 1941 Living August 24, 2024 Wrestled on Frontier Martial-Arts Wrestling-Explosion Terry Funk Memorial & Atsushi Onita 50th Anniversary event teaming with Osamu Nishimura to defeat Atsushi Onita and Raijin Yaguchi in Kawasaki, Japan.
3 KY Wakamatsu M 82 years, 153 days January 1, 1942 Living June 2, 2024 Last wrestled for Asian Pro Wrestling in Takachiho, Japan in a battle royal won by Shota.
4 Great Kojika M 82 years, 78 days April 28, 1942 Living July 15, 2024 Most recently wrestled on July 15, 2024, for Niigata Pro Wrestling in Niigata, Japan, teaming with Atsushi Onita and Hioryuki Suzuki to defeat the team of Abdullah Kobayshi, Onryo, and Ryuji Ito.
5 Killer Kowalski M 81 years, 153 days October 13, 1926 August 30, 2008 March 14, 2008 Kowalski wrestled his last match as he defeated Gino Giovanni with the clawhold at Top Rope Promotions in Fall River, Massachusetts.
6 The Fabulous Moolah F 81 years, 61 days July 22, 1923 November 2, 2007 September 21, 2004 Teamed with Mae Young to defeat Dawn Marie and Torrie Wilson in a tag team match at the WWE SmackDown taping. The match aired on TV two days later.
7 Jimmy Valiant M 81 years, 7 days August 6, 1942 Living August 13, 2023 Last wrestled for Revolution Wrestling Authority in High Point, North Carolina, teaming with Rob McBride in a 3-on-2 Handicap Match to defeat the team of Jonny Fairplay, Julian Strauss, and Steven Frye.
8 Dominic DeNucci M 80 years, 82 days January 23, 1932 August 12, 2021 April 14, 2012 DeNucci wrestled his last match at a PWS card in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, teaming up with Shane Douglas to defeat the team of Lord Zoltan and Shawn Blanchard.
9 Tinieblas M 80 years, 71 days June 8, 1939 Living August 18, 2019 Last wrestled at the 2019 Expo Lucha convention in San Diego, California, teaming up with Dr. Wagner Jr. and Octagón to defeat the team of Fuerza Guerrera, Misterioso Jr., and Pirata Morgan.
10 Popoff M 80 years, 6 days March 12, 1943 Living March 18, 2023 Last wrestled for Rixe Catch in Plouasne, France, defeating Charles Crowley.
11 Ox Baker M 80 years, 0 days April 19, 1934 October 20, 2014 April 19, 2014 Wrestled his last match on his 80th birthday against Bobo Brazil Jr. at a CCW card in Marion, Ohio.[6]
12 Dave Kidney M 79–80 years 1931 July 21, 2020 January 28, 2011 Last known match took place in Carnoustie, Scotland.
13 Mr. Chile M 79 years, 279 days November 21, 1942 Living August 27, 2022 Last wrestled for Valparaiso Lucha Libre in Valparaiso, Chile, teaming with Angel Blanco to defeat La Momia Porteña and Zaddam.[7]
14 Bob Armstrong M 79 years, 220 days October 3, 1939 August 27, 2020 May 11, 2019 Armstrong's last match was for Continental Championship Wrestling in Dothan, Alabama, where he defeated The Assassin.
15 John Cena Sr. M 79 years, 170 days June 16, 1944 Living December 3, 2023 The biological father of John Cena. He wrestled his last match for LIVE Pro Wrestling in New Bedford, Massachusetts, defeating Smart Mark Sterling.
16 Frank Hickey M 78 years, 66 days March 10, 1915 December 8, 1993 May 15, 1993 Wrestled his last match at a USWA event in Nashville, Tennessee, teaming with Brian Christopher in a loss to Frank Morrell and Koko B. Ware. He died a few months later.
17 George Julio M 78 years, 27 days March 10, 1946 Living April 6, 2024 Last wrestled for Victoria Professional Wrestling in Strathmore, Victoria, Australia, defeating Mason Stoneheart in a Street Fight.
18 Gypsy Joe M 77 years, 36 days December 2, 1933 June 14, 2016 January 7, 2011 Joe wrestled his last match at the Gypsy Joe retirement show held in Tullahoma, Tennessee by the Southern Wrestling Federation.
19 Bushwhacker Luke M 76 years, 265 days January 8, 1947 Living September 30, 2023 Most recently wrestled on September 30, 2023 for WCPBTW in Chillicothe, Ohio, teaming with Caleb Konley and Tommy Rich in a loss to Haku and The Barbarian.
20 Mil Máscaras M 76 years, 237 days July 15, 1942 Living March 9, 2019 Last wrestled for Lucha Libre Acapulco in Acapulco, Mexico, teaming with Capitan Atomo and Dragon Lee to defeat the team of La Bestia del Ring, Rey Bucanero, and Valiente.
21 Vince McMahon M 76 years, 222 days August 24, 1945 Living April 3, 2022 Wrestled his last match at WrestleMania 38 in Arlington, Texas, defeating Pat McAfee.
22 José González M 76 years, 141 days March 18, 1946 Living August 6, 2022 Most recently wrestled on August 6, 2022, for IWA Puerto Rico, teaming with Savio Vega defeated Manny Ferno, Mr. Big and El Bronco in a handicap match.
23 Claude Roca M 76 years, 127 days March 18, 1945 Living July 23, 2021 Last wrestled for ABC Wrestling in Béziers, France, losing to Matthew Ford.
24 Chick Donovan M 76 years, 108 days March 7, 1947 Living June 23, 2023 Most recently wrestled on June 23, 2023 at an Impact Wrestling TV taping in Atlanta, Georgia, losing to Johnny Swinger.
25 Jackie Fargo M 76 years, 82 days June 26, 1930 June 24, 2013 September 16, 2006 Wrestled in a tag team match with Jeff Justice and Officer McKenny to defeat Dr. Tom Prichard, Beau James and The Sheik of Araby for Big Time Wrestling in Granite Quarry, North Carolina.
26 Frank Durso M 76 years, 52 days January 30, 1937 December 7, 2018 March 23, 2013 Wrestled in a tag team match with Shawn Blanchard and Lou Martin to defeat Bobby O, Kris Kash, Shane Starr and Justin Sane for Keystone State Wrestling Alliance in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
27 King Cobra M 76 years, 52 days March 14, 1948 Living May 5, 2024 Teamed with Michael as they defeated the Hollywood Clique (Jimmy Blaylock and Van Vicious) at Championship Wrestling From Memphis in Memphis, Tennessee.
28 Bill Dundee M 76 years, 51 days October 24, 1943 Living December 14, 2019 Wrestled last for Bobby Eaton: A Night Of Appreciation event in Knoxville, Tennessee, where he teamed with George South, Beau James, and Stan Lee as they lost to Bobby Fulton, Brad Thomas, Ryan Dookie, and Shane Williams.
29 Yoshiaki Fujiwara M 75 years, 195 days April 27, 1949 Living Still Active Most recently wrestled on September 8, 2024 for Daiwa Entertainment Pro Wrestling in Kariya, Japan, teaming with Tomohiko Hashimoto and Gamerasu defeating Dragoon, Takaku Fuke and Takaya Shibayama.
30 Kenny Jay M 75 years, 77 days March 27, 1937 February 2, 2023 June 16, 2012 Last wrestled in an 11-person Royal Rumble style match, where he entered last and won, last eliminating Erik Lockhart, for Rock n Roll Wrestling in Wahpeton, North Dakota.
31 El Matematico M 75 years, 27 days April 20, 1940 Living May 17, 2015 Wrestled his last match for FMLL teaming with Mano Negra and Jalisco as they lost to Blue Panther, Damián 666, and Negro Navarro in El Monte, California.
32 El Satanico M 75 years, 13 days October 26, 1949 Living Still Active Most recently wrestled on October 15, 2024 for CMLL in Guadalajara, Mexico, teaming with Felino in a loss to Atlantis, and Blue Panther Jr. by disqualification.
33 Mike Jackson M 74 years, 363 days November 10, 1949 Living Still Active Most recently wrestled on May 18, 2024 for RCCW WrestlingCon 7 in Hazel Green, Alabama, taking part in a Rumble Match.
34 Octavio Gaona M 74 years, 304 days March 22, 1902 June 26, 1996 January 20, 1977 Wrestled his last match at a show in Guadalajara, Mexico teaming with his grandson, Arturo Gaona and Bucanero I defeating Babe Sharon, Comando I and Luis Chavir.
35 Lou Thesz M 74 years, 246 days April 24, 1916 April 28, 2002 December 26, 1990 The former undisputed World Heavyweight Champion last wrestled for New Japan Pro Wrestling in Hamamatsu, Japan, losing to Masahiro Chono.
36 Kim Duk M 74 years, 113 days February 7, 1948 Living May 31, 2022 Wrestled his last match at the Jumbo Tsuruta 23rd Anniversary Memorial Show in Tokyo, Japan, where he teamed with Tatsumi Fujinami and Yoshiaki Yatsu defeating Masanobu Fuchi, Masao Inoue and Shiro Koshinaka.
37 Oriental M 74 years, 7 days November 1, 1950 Living Still Active Most recently wrestled on September 17, 2024 in Pachuca, Mexico for AAA/MaxProad lost to Mascara Ano 2000 in a Hair vs Hair match.
38 The Great Gama M 73–74 years May 22, 1878 May 23, 1960 1952 Sources say that Gama remained active as a wrestler until 1952.
39 Johnny Saint M 73 years, 349 days June 29, 1941 Living June 13, 2015 Wrestled his last match for Italian Championship Wrestling in Brescia, Italy, teaming with Manuel Majoli to defeat Mr. Excellent and Psycho Mike.
40 Adrian Street M 73 years, 191 days December 5, 1940 July 31, 2023 June 14, 2014 Wrestled his last match for NWA Wrestle Birmingham, in Birmingham, Alabama.
41 Ric Flair M 73 years, 156 days February 25, 1949 Living July 31, 2022 Wrestled his last match in Nashville, Tennessee, teaming with his son-in-law Andrade El Idolo to defeat the team of Jay Lethal and Jeff Jarrett at the Ric Flair's Last Match pay-per-view.
42 Estrella Blanca M 73 years, 92 days January 15, 1938 November 15, 2021 April 17, 2011 Wrestled his last match on a AAA show in a loss to El Pistolero in San Pedro Cholula, Mexico.
43 Terry Funk M 73 years, 85 days June 30, 1944 August 23, 2023 September 23, 2017 Last wrestled for Big Time Wrestling in Spartanburg, South Carolina where he teamed with The Rock N' Roll Express as they defeated Doug Gilbert, Jerry Lawler and Brian Christopher.
44 Father Time M 73 years, 75 days August 25, 1951 Living Still Active Most recently wrestled on October 10, 2024, for Pure Pro Wrestling in Holland, Michigan, defeating The Amazing Zondo.
45 Jerry Lawler M 73 years, 53 days November 29, 1949 Living January 21, 2023 Last wrestled for AML Acts Of War Games 2 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina defeating Beer City Bruiser.
46 Mr. Wrestling II M 73 years, 33 days September 10, 1934 June 10, 2020 October 13, 2007 Last wrestled for Hawaii Championship Wrestling as he teamed up with Steve Corino and won the HCW Kekaulike Heritage Tag Team Championship title.
47 Mitsuo Momota M 73 years, 8 days September 21, 1948 Living September 29, 2021 Wrestled last match for Asakusa Pro Wrestling in Tokyo, Japan, where he teamed with Chikara to defeat Destroyman and Mr. Atomiko.
48 Sergio El Hermoso M 72–73 years 1946 May 14, 2021 August 17, 2019 Wrestled his last match teaming with Zoraya to defeat Carta Brava and Fantasma de la Opera by disqualification at Promociones HUMO in Mexico City, Mexico.
49 Bob Orton Jr. M 72 years, 240 days November 10, 1950 Living July 8, 2023 Most recently wrestled for Southern Illinois Championship Wrestling in Belleville, Illinois where he teamed with Flash Flanagan losing to Bradley Driggs and Lamonte Potts.
50 El Canek M 72 years, 142 days June 19, 1952 Living Still Active Most recently wrestled on August 31, 2024 in Tlalnepantla, Mexico at LEGEND 38. Aniversario Dr. Wagner Jr. in a four-way against Pig Destroyer, Fresero Jr. won by Dr. Wagner Jr..
51 Woody Farmer M 72 years, 109 days December 25, 1935 February 29, 2012 April 12, 2008 Wrestled his last match for Bay Wrestling Federation in Alameda, California, teaming with his son Shane Kody and his grandson Riot defeating Boom Boom Comini, Johnny Starr and Mr. Frost.
52 The Cuban Assassin M 72 years, 92 days January 27, 1945 Living April 29, 2017 Last wrestled for Ultimate Championship Wrestling in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, teaming with Bushwhacker Luke and Dillon Sharpe to defeat the team of Brett Howett, Jakob Moore and Kris Hicks.
53 Black Terry M 72 years, 66 days September 3, 1952 Living April 21, 2024 Most recently wrestled on October 12, 2024, for AVE/Producciones TC in Cuautitlan Izcalli, Estado de Mexico, Mexico as he teamed with Pirata Morgan and Wotan losing to Negro Navarro, Demonio Infernal and Trauma II.
54 Cien Caras M 72 years, 27 days October 18, 1949 Living November 14, 2021 Last wrestled on November 14, 2021, for an event in Guadalajara, Mexico where he defeated El Gallo for the Arena Jalisco Heavyweight Title.
55 Billy Riley M 71–72 years June 22, 1896 August 27, 1977 1968 Last known match took place in 1968.
T-56 Gustav Frištenský M 72 years (unverified) May 18, 1879 April 6, 1957 1951 It is said that Gustav Frištenský wrestled until the age of 72.
Warren Bockwinkel M 72 years (unverified) May 21, 1911 March 25, 1986 1983 It is said that Warren Bockwinkel, father of Nick Bockwinkel, wrestled until the age of 72.
Les Kellett M 72 years (unverified) May 11, 1915 January 9, 2002 1987 It is said that Les Kellett wrestled until the age of 72.
59 Jimmy Snuka M 71 years, 362 days May 18, 1943 January 15, 2017 May 15, 2015 His last match was at an ECPW event, where he teamed up with Frankie Flow to defeat the team of Andrew Anderson and Jason Knight.
60 Ron Fuller M 71 years, 328 days March 3, 1948 Living January 25, 2020 Last wrestled on January 25, 2020, for Continental Championship Wrestling in Dothan, Alabama, teaming with Jimmy Golden to defeat The Dirty Blondes (Leo Brien and Mike Patrick).
61 Ultraman M 71 years, 321 days July 14, 1947 Living May 31, 2019 His last match was teaming with El Solar and Super Astro as they defeated Black Terry, Negro Navarro, and Mano Negra at an event in Cuautitlan, Mexico.
62 Masanobu Kurisu M 71 years, 304 days November 15, 1946 Living September 15, 2018 His last match was teaming with Shigeo Okumura and Felino as they defeated, Mano Negra, Solar I, and Villano IV at the ExpoMuseo event in Benito Juarez, Mexico.
63 Américo Rocca M 71 years, 121 days September 22, 1952 Living January 21, 2024 Most recently wrestled on January 21, 2024, for CROM Jalisco in Guadalajara, Mexico, teaming with Mortis and Funebre to defeat the team of Avigor, Principle Dragon and Shezmu.
64 Mae Weston F 71 years, 138 days January 30, 1923 October 14, 1999 June 17, 1994 Wrestled in her last match in a tag team match with Stormy Apple as they lost to Josie Navarro and Margaret Garcia at Ladies International Wrestling Association in Las Vegas, Nevada.
65 John Pesek M 71 years, 124 days February 21, 1894 March 21, 1978 June 25, 1965 Wrestled in his last match defeating Frenchy Roberre at a Pacific Northwest Wrestling event in Portland, Oregon.
66 Afa Anoaʻi M 71 years, 100 days November 21, 1942 August 16, 2024 March 1, 2014 Wrestled his last match with his sons Afa Anoa'i Jr., LA Smooth, Samu and his grandson Lance Anoa'i. They defeated Homicide, AC Anderson, Eric Cobain, Havok and Mustafa Aziz in a 10-tag match for his promotion World Xtreme Wrestling in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
67 Dick the Bruiser Jr. M 71 years, 85 days August 4, 1952 Living October 28, 2023 Most recently wrestled for Supreme Pro Wrestling in Goshen, Indiana, teaming with Slim Trimmons to defeat Austin Martin and Rusty Nailz.
T-68 Ivan Koloff M 71 years, 83 days August 25, 1942 February 18, 2017 November 16, 2013 Wrestled his last match as he lost to Bob Armstrong at Superstars of Wrestling 1 in Rome, Georgia.
Stu Hart M 71 years, 83 days May 3, 1915 October 16, 2003 July 25, 1986 Wrestled his last match in a tag team match with his son, Keith defeating Honky Tonk Wayne and JR Foley at Stampede Wrestling in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
70 Jaque Mate M 70 years, 351 days September 29, 1948 Living September 15, 2019 Wrestled his last match at the VerdugoMania 3rd Anniversary show in Tonala, Jalisco, Mexico, teaming with Jaque Mate Jr., Rafaga, and Rayman in a loss to the team of Américo Rocca, El Gallego, Huracán Ramirez, and Starman.
71 Fuerza Guerrera M 70 years, 331 days December 13, 1953 Living Still Active Most recently wrestled on October 6, 2024, for Todo X El Todo in Leon, Mexico, teaming with Dr. Wagner Jr., and Heddi Karaoui losing to El Hijo del Santo, LA Parka and Santo Jr. .
72 Tatsumi Fujinami M 70 years, 316 days December 28, 1953 Living Still Active Most recently wrestled on October 14, 2024 for Niigata Pro Wrestling in Niigata, Japan, teaming with LEONA as they defeated Koji Doi and Kuma Arashi for the Niigata Tag Team titles.
73 Bobo Brazil Jr. M 70 years, 312 days September 14, 1952 Living July 23, 2023 Wrestled for FEW Unbreakable in Greenfield, Indiana, defeating Jacob Rose.
74 Ricky Knight M 70 years, 246 days December 24, 1953 Living August 26, 2024 Teamed with his son Zak Knight defeating PJ Knight and Brad Slayer at his promotion World Association Of Wrestling Let's Be Aving You in Norwich, England.
75 Katsuji Ueda M 70 years, 236 days December 15, 1945 April 20, 2017 August 7, 2016 Wrestled his last match for Frontier Martial-Arts Wrestling in Tokyo, Japan, defeating HASEGAWA and The Shooter in a MMA Three Way match.
76 El Sicodelico M 70 years, 226 days April 4, 1944 Living November 16, 2014 Wrestled his last match in an event in Mexico City, Mexico, teaming with Mil Mascaras and Dos Caras defeating Brazo de Oro, Brazo de Plata and Brazo de Platino.
77 Nikolai Volkoff M 70 years, 203 days October 14, 1947 July 29, 2018 May 5, 2018 Wrestled his last match for Battleground Championship Wrestling in Feasterville, Pennsylvania, teaming with Jim Duggan to defeat the team of Mecha Mercenary and Nicky Benz.
78 Tony Atlas M 70 years, 199 days April 23, 1954 Living Still Active Most recently wrestled on June 15, 2024 for Gatineau Pro Wrestling Guerre Civile IV in Gatineau, Quebec in a battle royal won by The Joker.
79 Masanobu Fuchi M 70 years, 188 days January 14, 1954 Living July 20, 2024 Most recently wrestled on July 20, 2024 for All Japan Pro Wrestling in Tokyo, Japan, losing to Yuma Anzai.
80 Baron Michele Leone M 70 years, 67 days June 8, 1909 November 26, 1988 August 14, 1979 Wrestled his last match defeating Rat Ferraro at a wrestling event in Montreal, Canada.
81 Águila Solitaria M 70 years, 16 days August 31, 1954 Living September 16, 2024 Most recently wrestled on September 16, 2024 teaming with El Solar defeating Negro Navarro and Mr. Condor in a cage match at Robles Promotions Mexicanos De Guerra in Ciudad Nezahualcoyotl, Estado de Mexico, Mexico.
82 The Great Kabuki M 70 years, 22 days September 8, 1948 Living September 30, 2018 Wrestled his last match at a show that was independently produced by Masakatsu Funaki in Osaka, Japan, teaming with Giant Small Baba, Small Antonio Inoki, and Teruko Kagawa to defeat the team of HIRO Dai Circus Yasuda, Mitsukuni Daiso, Waka Shoyo, and Yamaishi Meijin in an 8-person tag team match.

Oldest wrestlers still wrestling

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Rank Name Sex Age Birth Notes
1 Yoshiaki Fujiwara M 75 years, 195 days April 27, 1949 Still wrestles in Japan as of 2024.
2 El Satánico M 75 years, 13 days October 26, 1949 Still wrestles for Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre as of 2024.
3 Mike Jackson M 74 years, 364 days November 10, 1949 Still wrestles for independent shows.
4 Oriental M 74 years, 7 days November 1, 1950 Wrestles in Mexico as of 2024.
5 Father Time M 73 years, 75 days August 25, 1951 Still wrestles for independent shows.
6 El Canek M 72 years, 142 days June 19, 1952 Wrestles in Mexico.
7 Black Terry M 72 years, 66 days September 3, 1952 Wrestles in Mexico.
8 Fuerza Guerrera M 70 years, 331 days December 13, 1953 Wrestles in Mexico as of 2024.
9 Tatsumi Fujinami M 70 years, 316 days December 28, 1953 Wrestles in Japan as of 2024.
10 Tony Atlas M 70 years, 199 days April 23, 1954 Still wrestles for independent shows.
11 Ultra Seven M 69 years, 144 days June 17, 1955 Wrestles in Japan as of 2024.
12 Super Parka M 68 years, 168 days May 24, 1956 Still wrestles in Mexico.
13 El Solar M 68 years, 167 days May 25, 1956 Still wrestles in Mexico.
14 Tommy Rich M 68 years, 105 days July 26, 1956 Still wrestles for independent shows.
15 Ricky Morton M 68 years, 48 days September 21, 1956 Still wrestles for independent shows.

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Oliver, Greg. "Seattle promoter Harry Elliott dead at 101". canoe.com. Archived from the original on March 9, 2016. Retrieved April 20, 2020.
  2. ^ a b c Will, Gary (December 1998). "Gary Will: Deceased Pro Wrestlers – A Tribute to Mat Stars of the Past". GaryWill.com. Archived from the original on May 23, 2015. Retrieved November 4, 2009.
  3. ^ "Betty Wagner, first wife of WWE Hall of Famer Gorgeous George, dead at 98".
  4. ^ Mooneyham, Mike [@ByMikeMooneyham] (October 6, 2020). "Deepest condolences to @nicklaroberts and family on the passing of her mom Lorraine Johnson at age 90. One of the most beautiful and athletic women wrestlers during the '50s and '60s ... she and Penny Banner were women's world tag-team champions with looks and talent to spare. https://t.co/O5GfUklP1O" (Tweet). Archived from the original on October 7, 2020. Retrieved August 22, 2021 – via Twitter.
  5. ^ "Cowboy" Bob Ellis profile, from LegacyOfWrestling.com
  6. ^ Wrestling Promo - Ox Baker Final Match. Dave Burzynski. April 2, 2014. Archived from the original on March 30, 2017. Retrieved August 22, 2021 – via YouTube.
  7. ^ Mr Chile & Angel Blanco vs Zaddam & La Momia Porteña - Inmortales, Valparaíso Lucha Libre 2022. wrestling mundial. August 28, 2022 – via YouTube.
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