Today, we take a dive into the life and career of one of wrestling's most iconic figures: "Ravishing" Rick Rude. A man who could draw intense heat from a crowd with his mere presence and whose legacy continues to inspire new generations of wrestlers and fans alike.
The Early Days: From Minnesota to the Wrestling World
If you ever hear Rick Rude's famous line, "What I'd like to have right now is for all you...(insert Insult)", it's hard not to instantly picture the bronzed Adonis himself. Rick Rude, seemingly chiseled from marble, had it all—looks, charisma, and talent. Born in Minnesota, a state known for producing wrestling legends like Kurt "Mr. Perfect" Hennig and Barry "Demolition Smash" Darsow, Rude stood out even among this elite group. Rude’s journey into wrestling started with humble beginnings. He studied physical education before working as a bouncer and even showcased his strength in arm wrestling competitions. Encouraged by friends, Rude ventured into professional wrestling under the guidance of Eddie Sharkey, a well known trainer who had helped many wrestling greats.
Rising Through the Ranks
Rick Rude's early wrestling career saw him working various territories, including stints in Vancouver, Georgia, and Memphis. During his Memphis run, he crossed paths with legends like Jerry Lawler and King Kong Bundy, with Jimmy Hart managing him. These early years helped Rude hone his craft, and he began capturing championship gold, notably in Championship Wrestling Florida, managed by Percy Pringle, who would later become legendary as Paul Bearer.
Making an Impact in WCW and WWF
Rude's career took a significant leap when he joined WCW, winning the NWA Heavyweight Championship. The transition from WCCW to WCWA saw Rude becoming the first recognized WCWA World Heavyweight Champion. He also formed a memorable tag team with the Dingo Warrior, later known as the Ultimate Warrior. His run in WWF began in July 1987, where he quickly became a household name as part of the Bobby Heenan family. He feuded with major stars like Mr. Wonderful Paul Orndorff and eventually Jake "The Snake" Roberts, leading to one of the most entertaining storylines of the era. Who can forget Rude's infamous airbrushed tights or the moment he tried to seduce Jake's wife, Cheryl Roberts, only to face her rejection and a subsequent ear injury from her slap? Allegedly!
Classic Feuds and Championships
Rick Rude's feud with the Ultimate Warrior is the stuff of legend. Starting with a special pose down due to their incredible physiques, Rude won the Intercontinental Championship at WrestleMania V with Bobby Heenan's help. This feud culminated at SummerSlam, where Warrior reclaimed his title. Another notable rivalry was with Rowdy Roddy Piper, leading to a memorable Survivor Series matchup between their teams. Despite these encounters, Rude never quite clinched the WWF Heavyweight Championship, even though his talent suggested he deserved it.
The Later Years and Beyond
After leaving WWF, Rude had a brief stint with the Ultimate Wrestling Federation, followed by All Japan Wrestling. However, his most significant post-WWF period was his time in WCW from 1991 to 1994. Here, he joined the Dangerous Alliance, won the US Championship by defeating Sting, and captured the WCW International World Heavyweight Championship three times before a severe back injury ended his in-ring career. Rude made a notable comeback in 1997 with ECW and then returned to WWF as part of D-Generation X in a non-wrestling role, famously appearing on both Monday Night Nitro and WWE Raw on the same night due to TV taping schedules.
Rick Rude passed away in April 1999 at only 40 years old. His legacy was cemented with his posthumous induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2017.
Rick Rude was a wrestling icon who left a mark on the industry. With his amazing presence, exceptional talent, and unforgettable moments, he remains one of wrestling's most beloved figures. Though he was taken from us too soon, his influence and contributions to the world of professional wrestling continue to be celebrated.
What are your favourite memories of Rick Rude? Feel free to share!
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