Hello Wrestling Fans, Today, we're diving deep into the life and legacy of one of the most iconic women in wrestling history, Sherri Martel. Her story is one of passion, resilience, and pure talent. So, without further ado, let's jump right into her incredible journey.
Early Life and Aspirations
Sherri Martel, born Sherri Lynn Russell on February 8, 1958, in Birmingham, Alabama, was a true trailblazer in professional wrestling. Growing up, Sherri enjoyed basketball and track and field, but it was wrestling that captured her heart. Despite a turbulent household atmosphere, she found solace in watching wrestling, dreaming of one day stepping into the ring herself.
Inspired by legendary female wrestlers like the Fabulous Moolah, Sherri pursued her passion with unwavering determination. Her mother, supportive of her dreams, took Sherri and her sister to wrestling events in Mississippi, further igniting her desire to become a wrestler.
The Beginnings of a Legend
In 1974, Sherri approached Grizzly Smith, seeking advice on becoming a wrestler. Though initially dismissed due to her young age, Sherri's strong will pushed her to continue pursuing her dream. She trained with Mr. Personality Butch Moore in Memphis, taking the name Sherri Martine, before furthering her training with the Fabulous Moolah.
Under Moolah's rigorous and intense training program, Sherri's resilience shone through. She adopted the name Sherri Martel and debuted in 1980 in Memphis Wrestling. Her early career saw her working in various territories, quickly making a name for herself.
Rising to Stardom
In 1981, Sherri's career took her overseas to Japan, though her partying lifestyle led to her departure from Moolah's training. Returning to Tennessee, she encountered Jim Cornette and began working with Tom Pritchard and Pat Rose. Larry Zbysko helped her join the AWA in the mid-1980s, where she became a top competitor in the women's division.
In 1985, Sherri won the AWA World Women's Championship by defeating Candi Devine. Her reign was notable for her in-ring ability and dynamic personality, solidifying her as a standout performer. She also began managing male wrestlers, showcasing her versatility and enhancing various storylines.
The WWF Era
Recommended by Jesse Ventura, Sherri joined the WWF in 1987. Competing as a wrestler, she won the WWF Women's Championship by defeating the Fabulous Moolah and held the title for 15 months. When the WWF shifted focus away from women's wrestling, Sherri excelled as a manager, enhancing the careers of several male wrestlers.
She became Sensational Sherri while managing the Macho Man Randy Savage, forming an electric duo that captured fans' hearts. Her memorable feuds and matches, including those with Hulk Hogan and Brutus the Barber Beefcake, were iconic.
Later Career and Legacy
In 1992, Sherri was paired with Shawn Michaels, contributing to his iconic theme music. After various feuds and managing stints in the WWF, she continued her career in USWA, Smoky Mountain Wrestling, and WCW as Sensuous Sherri. Her alliance with Harlem Heat's Booker T and Stevie Ray was particularly notable.
Sherri's versatility was unmatched; she adapted seamlessly to different roles, leaving a mark in every promotion she worked with. In 2005, she had her final wrestling match at Wrestle Reunion and made one last WWE storyline appearance in 2006.
A Troubled Soul and a Lasting Impact
Despite her professional success, Sherri struggled with personal issues, including addiction, which she openly discussed in later interviews. Tragically, Sherri Martel passed away on June 15, 2007, at the age of 49.
Her influence on professional wrestling is immeasurable. As a wrestler and manager, she broke barriers and set new standards for women in the sport. Her charisma, in-ring talent, and managerial skills were out of this world.
Sherri was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame by Ted DiBiase in 2006 and into the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2014. Her legacy is cherished by all who witnessed her remarkable career.
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