Superstar Billy Graham: The Man Who Changed Wrestling Forever

Superstar Billy Graham was one of the most influential and charismatic wrestlers of all time. He was a pioneer of the modern wrestling style, combining a muscular physique, colorful attire, and a flamboyant personality that captivated audiences around the world. He was also a three-time world champion in major professional wrestling promotions, and a mentor and inspiration to many future stars of the industry.

Early Life and Bodybuilding Career

Superstar Billy Graham was born as Eldridge Wayne Coleman Jr. on June 7, 1943, in Phoenix.

Early Life and Bodybuilding Career

Superstar Billy Graham was born as Eldridge Wayne Coleman Jr. on June 7, 1943, in Phoenix, Arizona. He grew up in a poor and abusive family, but found solace in weightlifting and religion. He became a bodybuilding champion in his teens, winning the West Coast division of the Mr. Teenage America contest in 19611. He trained with some of the best bodybuilders of his era, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, who became his close friend and godfather to his daughter2.

He also pursued a career in football and boxing, but did not achieve much success in either sport. He worked as a debt collector and a bouncer before entering the wrestling business in 1970.

Wrestling Career

Superstar Billy Graham made his wrestling debut in 1970 under the name Wayne Coleman. He soon adopted the ring name “Superstar” Billy Graham, inspired by the evangelist Billy Graham. He dyed his hair blond and wore tie-dyed shirts and tights to create a distinctive look. He also developed a charismatic interview style, using rhymes, alliterations, and metaphors to hype up his matches. He was influenced by the boxing legend Muhammad Ali, who he admired for his verbal skills and confidence.

He wrestled for various territories across North America, including Stampede Wrestling, American Wrestling Association (AWA), National Wrestling Alliance (NWA), and World Wide Wrestling Federation. He won several regional titles, but his biggest achievement came in 1977, when he defeated Bruno Sammartino for the WWWF Heavyweight Championship1. He held the title for nearly 10 months, defending it against challengers like Dusty Rhodes, Ivan Putski, Mil Mascaras, and Bob Backlund.

He lost the title to Backlund in 1978, and left the WWWF soon after. He returned to the AWA and NWA, where he feuded with stars like Ric Flair, Harley Race, Nick Bockwinkel, and The Crusher. He also wrestled in Japan for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW), where he faced legends like Antonio Inoki, Giant Baba, Jumbo Tsuruta, and Riki Choshu.

He retired from wrestling in 1987 due to health problems caused by years of steroid abuse. He made occasional appearances for WWE (formerly WWF) in the 1990s and 2000s as a commentator, manager, and guest referee. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2004 by his protégé Triple H3.

Legacy and Influence

Superstar Billy Graham is widely regarded as one of the most influential wrestlers of all time. He changed the wrestling industry with his innovative style, which combined power, charisma, and entertainment. He paved the way for many future wrestling icons who emulated his look and persona, such as Hulk Hogan, Jesse Ventura, Scott Steiner, Ultimate Warrior, Steve Austin, The Rock, John Cena, and many more.

He was also a respected artist who painted portraits of wrestlers and celebrities. He sold some of his paintings to raise money for charity and medical expenses4. He was married to Valerie Coleman since 1979 and had two children1.

He died on May 17, 2023 at the age of 79 due to complications from liver disease3. He was mourned by fans and peers alike as one of the greatest wrestlers ever.