We're sad to report the passing of "Superstar" Billy Graham, a member of the WWE Hall of Fame.
Graham, a former WWE Champion, set the standard for a generation of Superstars that came after him with his flashy sense of style, outrageous interviews, and bodybuilder physique.
The Arizona native developed a love for bodybuilding and made his own weights out of cement to start shaping his body. Eventually, he was able to bench press 605 lbs, which is only 11 lbs less than the world record. When one of Graham's photo sessions with Arnold Schwarzenegger was highlighted in Joe Weider's "Muscle and Fitness" magazine, he experienced his first taste of stardom.
In 1970, Eldridge Wayne Coleman adopted the Billy Graham name in honour of the evangelist and entered the sports entertainment arena. When he joined the AWA in 1972, he added the moniker "Superstar," and became a pro wrestling pioneer thanks to his bodybuilder physique and in-ring prowess.
Graham developed a unique style that included eccentric earrings, skintight T-shirts, and long, vibrant tie-dyed tights in order to stick out even more. He also coloured his hair and beard different colours. His distinctive look, sculpted figure, and domination in the ring laid the groundwork for the likes of Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, Jesse Ventura, and Scott Steiner.
On April 30, 1977, Graham pulled off a nearly unimaginable feat by knocking Bruno Sammartino off his perch as WWE Champion. He held the title for nearly a year, successfully defending the company's top honour against legends like Dusty Rhodes, Gorilla Monsoon, and "High Chief" Peter Maivia.
Graham retired from the ring in 1987 at the age of 44 and worked as a manager before becoming a colour commentator.
In 2004, Triple H inducted "Superstar" Billy Graham into the WWE Hall of Fame.
Our thoughts go out to his family at this time.