Pro Wrestling in Memphis: A History

Mayhem on the Mat in Memphis

For most of the twentieth century, professional wrestling was the most popular sport in Memphis. It not only had great entertainment value but also reflected the city’s culture of cruelty, kindness and violence. The vibrant professional wrestling culture that developed in Memphis--with its emphasis on elaborate promotions, strong characters and wild performances--transformed the sport and made the Bluff City one of the most significant wrestling centers in the United States. Join author G. Wayne Dowdy as he chronicles Sputnik Monroe’s successful battle against segregation and the Jerry Lawler/Andy Kaufman feud and introduces wrestling legends like Jackie Fargo, Tojo Yamamoto, Bill Dundee, Handsome Jimmy Valiant, Kamala the Ugandan Giant and Dwayne ＂The Rock＂ Johnson.

G. Wayne Dowdy is the senior manager of the Memphis Public Libraries History Department. He holds a master’s degree in history from the University of Arkansas, is a contributing writer for Best Times magazine and is an Eagle Scout. He is the author of eight books, including A Brief History of Memphis, Enslavement in Memphis and On This Day in Memphis History, which was awarded a Certificate of Merit by the Tennessee Historical Commission.