I would have thought Mick McManus definately fell into this category because he filled a dual role of matchmaker and one of the biggest drawing wrestlers ever. Would DM have been anywhere near as successful without him?There were probably scores of wrestlers who were completely invaluable.Your opinions please.
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No one has mentioned Jackie Pallo, or did I miss it. But I would suggest "Dazzler" Joe Cornelius. Very popular and often on TV.
In fact as the 1970s progressed McManus became part of the problem rather than being invaluable. Stale matches repeating a tired and worn routine helped to contribute to falling attendances and TV viewers
I would like to say Bernard Murray.
He knew it all and taught many newcomers.
Always gave a good show and never pushed himself for titles.
An old thread that I think should have had more mileage, so others might like to join in.
My addition would be Barry Douglas. From a wrestling family but endured without being given a push, usually the undercard, always reliable,
Mike Marino was another who was around, in the spotlight, for many years, I assume he was a good hand, and was also sitting at the main table with Dale Martin. I think Tony St. Clair mentioned that it was McManus and Marino who both pushed for him to become Heavyweight Champion, in a Joint Promotions board meeting.
I think Albert Wall in 1972 was invaluable.
The heavyweight title had been a mess for six years with Billy Robinson's comings and goings. Wall wrestled seemingly six nights a week, all over the country. The business and his promoters needed this, he showcased the most prestigious title, and thereby wrestling. He wrestled an amazing 13 times on tv that year.
Of course, it quickly took its toll on him and he had packed in altogether just a couple of years later.
I would add Mick McMichael to that list, not usually a bill topper but definitely appeared to me to be a solid worker who was never usually in a bad match.
Agreed Powerlock. These guys were so unselfish and reliable that they were like gold to the Promoters.Thanks for your reply.
With Mick running the book he made himself invaluable. but for me the invaluable wrestlers were the ones who would give anyone a decent match, could help build up others without complaint and guide youngsters with potential through matches and making them look a million dollars at the same time as well as myriad other things. These wrestlers weren't necessarily headliners but mid card stalwarts. The names that immediately come to mind are Tally Ho Kaye, Blackjack Mulligan,Sid Cooper and the like.