gold star for USAHOF

24. Ken Patera

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24. Ken Patera

Before there was Kurt Angle, there was another legit Olympian who competed in the squared circle.  Ken Patera competed for the United States in weightlifting at the 1972 Munich games (he did not medal) and was one of the first to use the moniker as “the world’s strongest man” while competing in wrestling.

Unlike others with that label, Patera could actually wrestle and in his prime was surprisingly agile.  He was a great heel and regardless of what promotion he was in, was always good for a series against their champion that would generate interest.  Ken Patera wrestled in many promotions and he did have success in Stamford.  It will be interesting to see if the original strong man will get in to the Hall in future years

Should Ken Patera be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put him in! - 79.8%
Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 10.6%
Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 3.7%
No opinion. - 1.1%
No way! - 4.8%

The Bullet Points

  • Other Aliases: None
  • Billed From: U.S.A. (Portland, OR)
  • Key Championships Held: AWA World Tag Team (2) (1w/Jerry Blackwell, 1w/Brad Rheingans)
    CWA International Heavyweight (2)
    NWA American Heavyweight
    NWA Georgia Heavyweight
    NWA Mid Atlantic Heavyweight (2)
    NWA Mid Atlantic Tag Team (w/John Studd)
    NWA Missouri Heavyweight
    WWF Intercontinental
  • Why they will get in: With Olympic pedigree and a pair of solid WWF runs, he is a legit contender.
  • Why they won't get in: His last WWF run was less than spectacular and how he is remembered by many.
  • Five Greatest Matches/Moments: 1.  Lost to Dusty Rhodes in a high marquee match at the Orange Bowl (1/25/78)
    2.  Won the WWF Intercontinental Title from Pat Patterson (4/21/80)
    3.  Won the NWA Missouri Title four days after won the IC belt defending both championships for a half a year (4/25/80)
    4.  Match of the Year in a loss to Bob Backlund in an attempt to win the WWF World Title in a spectacular Texas Death Match  (5/19/80)
    5.  Along with Big John Studd, cut the hair of the legendary Andre the Giant (11/13/84)

Should Ken Patera be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put him in! - 79.8%
Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 10.6%
Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 3.7%
No opinion. - 1.1%
No way! - 4.8%

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Last modified on Friday, 26 April 2024 20:15
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