Product Description
Rev your engines, jump on your bike, grab your skateboard, get ready to rumble! This title offers young readers the coolest facts about the sports they love. It includes facts on unusual rules, record-setting athletes, and essential equipment that will have sports fans cheering for more. It features: Full Colour; Table of Contents; Glossary; Index. ... Read more

Product Description
Describes the ancient Japanese art and sport of sumo including the rules, preparation, techniques, and importance to the wrestler. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

History was Never So Much Fun
Yes, I did say history! This is not one of those silly bios of flamboyant pro wrestlers published to exploit teenaged mat fans. Rather, it tells, in considerable detail and in lively, readable prose, the entire history of the sport, from the ancient Egyptians and Greeks to the courts of medieval kings to frontier America to the modern day, including both the amateur and professional versions. Important historical figures are profiled, and appropriate space is given to true greats of the sport, such as Frank Gotch and Dan Gable. The way the author traces the transition from real to fake wrestling in the pro ranks in the early decades of the twentieth century is masterful and fascinating. The only fault I can find with the book is the cover photo, which shows two outdated, unknown, and very ugly pro wrestlers in an unflattering pose. Otherwise, I highly recommend the book to all wrestling fans and anyone who like sports.

Fascinating from beginning to end
I for one have to admit that didn't know that wrestling is the oldest sport around and that practically every society in human history has had some form of wrestling! This book gives the whole history of the sport in an easy to read style and covers both amateur and professional wrestling today, which is all very fascinating.I especially liked the section on the pro wrestlers of the early twentieth century, including the greatest of all, who was the amazing Frank Gotch.

Great Book!!
For any fan of wrestling, amateur or professional, this is the best general history of the sport for students and general readers that I know of.It goes way back to ancient Egypt and and the Greeks and explains in detail about how they invented or perfected most of the holds and throws used in modern wrestling.The book also does a terrific job of tracing the development of the sport through the middle ages to early modern England, and from there to colonial America (where George Washington was known for being a champion wrestler!!!).It also tells how amateur and professional wrestling diverged in the late 1800s and early 1900s and how the professionals started out wrestling for real but later resorted to fakery.I recommend this book to all those who enjoy wrestling or just watching it, and also to sports fans in general. ... Read more

Product Description
This completely revised and updated Coach's Guide, written by USA Wrestling coaches and expert staff, provides wrestling coaches at all levels the information they need to become an effective coach. USA Wrestling has more than 150,000 members.These include athletes of all ages, coaches, officials, parents, and fans striving together to strengthen the sport.The USA Wrestling Coach's Guide to Excellence is designed to facilitate the continued improvement and development of coaches at the grassroots level and beyond. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (6)

An interesting perspective on the pro wrestling biz
I've read a lot of books written by/about wrestlers, so I was excited to read something from a promoter's point of view, as that is a part of the business which interests me greatly but isn't frequently written about. This book is an excellent and unique take on the business, but it's not a pretty story. Brody endures tremendous professional and personal ups and downs as he builds promotions, loses promotions...secures financing, loses financing... earns money, loses money... develops friendships, watches friends die... on and on, he perseveres and lives to tell the tale. He pulls no punches with his highly readable and entertaining storytelling style, and I appreciate the fact that the book is written from the perspective of a fan, which Brody remains, even after seeing and participating in all the ugliness behind the curtain. The cast of characters becomes unwieldy towards the end-- he throws a lot of names at you and it's hard to keep up-- but that just gives you a great excuse to read the book a second time! Pick it up, you won't regret it!

pro wrestling with no punches pulled
A brutally honest look at pro wrestling outside of the ring.One man's story of what really goes on in the back rooms and his struggle to be seen as a major player in the business, though he never ever stepped in the ring.Many revealing truths aboutsome of the legends in the business, some pretty awful, and others very heartwarming from a man who has dealt with them all.This is a must read if you really want to know more about what really transpires in this crazy business.

Great Read!
I knew Brody as the president of the NWA but there are so many interesting stories he has had during his time in the wrestling business. Any fan of Hiro Matsuda should pick this book up as he and Brody worked together closely. I find his biographical info on Matsuda (Matsuda trained Hulk Hogan and The Total Package amongst others) real interesting and would be interested in a more in-depth look at this great man.

Highlight of the book for me as to be the Herb Abrams stories what a unique man. All the crazy drug stories,swindling and even the theory by some that he's still alive.

These two topics just scratch the surface...great read!

"Swimming With Piranhas,"A Good Read And A Cautionary Tale
While non wrestling fans might choose to avoid this book, they will miss out on a heck of a good read if they do. Wrestling fans will get a look "behind the curtain" at a sport, and a business that brings out both the best, and the worst, in its devotees.

Author Brody became fascinated by wrestling as an adolescent, many do, but what sets Brody apart is that he "followed his bliss."He began as a writer for wrestling publications, and went on to become a promoter (and president of the National Wrestling Alliance, NWA). Along the way he was betrayed and hustled by some of the biggest names in the game.

From "friends" who sabotaged his nascent writing career to the strange duo of Dory Funk, Jr. and his wife Martie. Who made impossible demands--including that an unready protege be given a major push. This push was detrimental to to the other workers in the locker room, and to Brody's promotion.When he (Brody) attempted to make peace with Dory and Martie.They told him that "it was business, not personal."

This is just one of many episodes recounted in this book.Also included are sad vignettes involving the late Chris Candido, qnd the still troubled Scott Hall. Anyone considering investing in, or working in professional wrestling, would be wise to take the time to read this book.

The book is not entirely a chronicle of missteps and calumny.The story of Rockin Robin, daughter of Grizzly Smith, and sister of Sam Houston, and Jake "The Snake" Roberts, who grew up in what can only be imagined as a nightmarish homelife. Robin became a top woman wrestler, and a full blown alcoholic.At a point where death seemed inevitable, she chose to live, come to grips with her horrendous treatment by an unspeakable father, and get her life on course.In short, she became a survivor.

Howard is also a survivor. Though he says that he is through with wrestling, I have no doubt that an older, and wiser, Howard Brody will return to what he calls his "mistress," pro wrestling.I can't wait to see what form that return takes!

Must Read!
If you have found this book you are probably a avid pro wrestling fan.You probably have purchased dozens of wrestling related books and like myself, are somewhat of a expert on the subject.It is hard for any of us to get excited about another "Tell All" story about the life of a wrestler.There are so many of these books out there that when one FINALLY comes around with a truly different story it really should spark some interest.I found this book at a local book store and figured I would give it a chance since Howard Brody isn't a wrestler at all... He is a former promotor and National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) President.

I couldn't be been more happy with my purchase.Howard has an amazing memory of his life's work.I've often wondered what it would be like working with the wrestlers and this story not only goes into detail vividly, but Howard also puts the reader right in the board room with the biggest promotors of the NWA during that time.You will hear what Bill Behrens, Dennis Coralluzzo and Tony Rumble were like behind closed doors.However, they really are tame compared to the crazy lifestyle of former UWF owner, Herb Abrams.

I guess what really made the book so special was that you could see Howard really tried to do the best job he could even at his personal expense.He was not above pointing the finger directly at himself which adds to his credibility.You will also see what a great man Hiro Matsuda really was.(Matsuda trained Hulk Hogan and Lex Luger among many others.)

I totally enjoyed this book.Howard is a terrific writer and I hope he will write some more wrestling related books.A+++ read!!

Scott Porter ... Read more

Product Description
Whimsical line drawings make The Big Book of Sumo the most user-friendly sumo guide available.Super sumo fan Mina Hall covers all aspects of the sport, including its history, traditions, training methods, stable life, rankings, fighting holds, and judging.Designed as an introduction to sumo, the book contains charts, photographs, and diagrams that will be of interest to aficionados as well.Featured are maps to the training stables plus information on how to be a spectator and where to eat and stay near the main sumo arena in Japan. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

great thorough intro
A bit cutesy, but covers all the details, including details other books don't deal with.

A Fun Introduction
A fantastic and fun introduction to Sumo. I've already got my tickets for my second Basho next week and I'll have a lot better understanding of the sport because of this book.
However, its a bit out of date for current wrestlers and recent records. But that's all available online from the Sumo organization web site.
Also, its a good intro, but you'll have to look elsewhere for more detailed information and history.

Great little "Big Book of Sumo"
As a begining Sumo wrestler, who trains with 2 time World Lightweight Sumo champ Svetoslav Binev, I really liked this book. I found "The Big Book of Sumo" to be an awesome little book on the history and tradition of Sumo.

Unfortunately, it has nothing on the actual techniques used from the standpoint of a competing wrestler. Only descriptions of some names of common techniques from a fan's perspective.

Never-the-less, it's a great little "Big Book of Sumo." Don't get this book if you are looking for more than a very general description of sumo technique.Do get this book if you want to understand the art, history and tradition of Sumo.

Great Book
I purchased this book a year ago.It is very easy to understand and has some realy fabulous pictures.

Mina Hall has done a great job in putting this together.I would recomend this to anyone who is interested in sumo.

Getting up to speed on Sumo
I have been interested in Sumo, but was lost in understanding of the sport. Mina Hall not only knows her stuff, she is able to relay it in terms that are understandable. Now I have a new love for the sport from this easybook. The content of Hall's book is enough to make me feel like I know thesport. No longer will I wonder why they do those things before,during, andafter the match. While I have read other books on the subject this is byfar the best. Get it and learn Sumo. ... Read more

Product Description
You think you know Hollywood Hulk Hogan™? Brother, you don't know squat about me.

Yeah, I'm the towering red-and-yellow warrior who revolutionized the wrestling business, the larger-than-life superhero who transformed an entire country into a horde of Hulkamaniacs™.

But it wasn't always like that. Once I was a fat kid named Terry Bollea watching legends like Dusty Rhodes and Superstar Billy Graham, never dreaming I'd be a professional wrestler myself one day.

Run with me on the streets of Tampa, where a bass guitar became my salvation. Fight alongside me in the wrestling arenas of Japan. Cruise L.A. with me and Sylvester Stallone. Find out what makes me cry like a baby, what makes my blood boil, and what scares the living hell out of me. Then tell me you know the man called Hollywood Hulk Hogan.

Join the Babe Ruth of wrestling on a no-holds-barred odyssey of his start in the barbaric wrestling arenas of the seventies through the humiliation of his involvement in federal steroid-abuse trials and the heartbreak of potentially career-ending surgery to the achievement of his greatest triumph yet.

Hollywood Hulk Hogan. It's the real deal, brother. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (69)

Good Nonfiction Book
Overall I enjoyed HOLLYWOOD HULK HOGAN. There were a lot of behind the scenes stories that as a wrestling fan I had never heard. There were also a lot of stories left out of the book - presumably so they can be covered in Hogan's new book MY LIFE OUTSIDE THE RING. It was a little annoying when the writers (Hogan and Michael Jan Friedman) would use the cartoonish "hey brother" style of dialog characteristic of Hulk Hogan the character, as opposed to Terry Bollea - the man behind the gimmicks. Being produced by the WWE, Vince McMahon come out smelling like a rose. It would be interesting to see if the Hulkster would be so kind if the WWE wasn't publishing the book.

Greatest Book Ever!
Let me tell you brothers, I didn't fight for this country so that I could come back and see people criticize the greatest book ever written.This book can be added to any list of great literature.It also reaches out to history buffs as Hulk shares his trials and tribulations.A lot of Hulkamaniacs have died so we have the right to read books like this.This book was on the banned books list for a few years and it has recently been pulled off the list.I learned about this book several years ago.Upon my father's deathbead he grabbed me by the collar and told me to always remember the words written in this book.He then unvieled his new Hulk Hogan tattoo on his chest as his life left him.Serious thought has actually been given to adding this book to the Bible.I know people who learned to read just so they could read this book.Do yourself a favor and read this book.

Anyone else who gives this book a bad review is going to recieve an Atomic Leg Drop courtesy of me!You'll know I'm serious when you're on the ground and you see me bouncing off the ropes!

OK Read
It's an OK pro wrestling read but there are a lot better pro wrestling books out there now.

Not That Great
Hulk Hogan, the modern icon of pro wrestling, admits right away the supposed "sport" is rigged, the outcomes of matches predetermined. For that he should be commended. Otherwise, this book isn't that great, it's Hulk Hogan's autobiography telling people he wanted to see how much money they could make off this. Hogan was making like a million dollars a show and when WCW peaked it was a hundred million dollar a year industry. Vince Russo ruined wrestling for good, making Hogan job to people like Billy Kidman, which ended up in Vince McMahon buying WCW for a mere 3 million dollars. His only halfway believable angle with was Zeus in 1989. Brutus Beefcake was blown way out of proportion; he doesn't even mention the near fatal face accident and current blindness. It's marketed at families with no sense of humor. He comes clean on his steroids abuse, which we've all known for years. Hulk Hogan strikes me as someone who took his real life persona too seriously, as a redneck body builder. He admits finally although he's really part French, he is otherwise of descent from a third world country- the blonde Irishman wasn't believable. They should've made Roddy Piper the main guy, inflation wouldn't be so high. Commend Hogan for picking up the ball that was dropped by: Bob Backland, Ultimate Warrior, Lex Luger, Sting, The Giant, Batista...

Skirts and Rationalizes all the way
I could go into long detail on his "rationalization" of controversial fixes Hogan was caught up in like steroids, Vince and holding back younger wrestlers through his backstage politics.
However, this one important timepiece Hogan makes pretty much no mention of whatsoever was Starcade 1997 and Sting. He never once admits to having too big of an ego to cleanly lose to Sting/Steve Borden at all in this book. Skirting a well known wrestling feud where his ego was put ahead of "what was best for business" in WCW at the time with Sting automatically negates this book as a TRUE AND HONEST AUTOBIOGRAPHY. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (13)

I've read better.
This book makes it seem like Larry Zbyszko needed some money and decided to make some quick cash by writing a book.The book was a good read detailing his start in wrestling and WCW years, but very little time is spent on anything else.He seems to skip over a lot in a book that was pretty short and could have used a few more stories to fill the pages.

I've read better.
This book makes it seem like Larry Zbyszko needed some money and decided to make some quick cash by writing a book.The book was a good read detailing his start in wrestling and WCW years, but very little time is spent on anything else.He seems to skip over a lot in a book that was pretty short and could have used a few more stories to fill the pages.

A Trip To Larryland Is Reccomended
Larry Zbyszko is one of the most well traveled wrestlers of any generation, having worked for nearly ever major promotion during his glorious career.

Larry sheds just enough light on his suburban upbringing, and speaks with awe and affection about his mentor and hero, Bruno Sammartino. Throughout the book Bruno's influence is obvious on Larry, and he applied it to carve out a legendary career of his own.

Larry shares insights on doing business with both Vince McMahon Sr. and Jr., and the chessgame between the McMahons against himself and Bruno that almost led to the dropping of the Sammartino/Zbyszko angle, to this day IMO the best angle ever done.

Larry glosses over his time in the NWA territories, which is understandable since he didn't spend a great deal of time in either area, but does give insight into why his blackmail angle with Dusty Rhodes and Baby Doll never happened.

Larry's stories of dealing with father-in-law Verne Gagne in the AWA are entertaining, as are his stories of the territory in general, such as the story behind his ninjas, and his wrestler vs. boxer feud with Scott LeDoux.

You'll hear Larry talk about the end of his in-ring career and his commentary career in WCW. He talks about business dealings with Jim Herd, Kip Frye, Bill Watts, and Eric Bischoff, why a program with Ric Flair never materialized, how his comeback feud with Lord Steven Regal came about and produces stellar matches, and caps it off with his stand against the New World Order, while talking about backstage dealings with the members, including Hulk Hogan.

You wish he'd have gone into a little more detail, but his writing of his time in the WWWF alone make it well worth the buy.

So entertaining I could not put the book down!!!!!!
This a must read whether you are a fan of wrestling or not! It may be a short book, but the entertainment value more than makes up for the large font everyone seems to be concerned about. You get an insiders view of the way wrestling used to be instead of the new hyped up matches. Larry takes you on his journey into the world of wrestling from his beginnings. He allows you into his inner circle and shares some very colorful and entertaining experiences through the ups and downs of his career. It is well worth the journey and I would highly recommend this book to anyone!
The only reason you would not like this book is if you work for Vince McMahon!!

Great book to read at the beach!
This book was a fast read, with much humor, which provided an excellent review of professional wrestling from the 1970s up through the 1990s when World Championship Wrestling was locked in a television rating war against the World Wrestling Federation (later changed to World Wrestling Entertainment)in an attempt to win over the hearts and souls of the fans.This book should be picked up by serious fans of pro wrestling.There are nuggets of solid information into the workings of pro wrestling which can be picked up from Larry's stories.One of the unique stories presented in the book is the relationship between Larry and his mentor, the great Bruno Sammartino, wrestling's original Living Legend.The story of their dealings with the McMahons, Vince Sr. and Jr. is the stuff of legend.Wrestling fans throughout the world will truly enjoy Adventures in Larryland! ... Read more

Product Description
This spectacular volume, written by a select group ofwriters from Pro Wrestling Illustrated magazine and illustrated withphotographs from the magazine's archives, spotlights the excitingworld of professional wrestling, one of today's most popularsports. This colorful book contains thrilling stories and interestingfacts about all of the major wrestling federations as well as fans'favorite wrestlers, from Bill Goldberg and Hollywood Hogan to SteveAustin. Included is a history of the sport, followed by detailedprofiles of today's wrestlers. With an authoritative text and vibrant,action-filled photographs, this unique book is destined to become aclassic.

Features stars like Bill Goldberg, Hollywood Hogan and Steve AustinEndorsed by Pro Wrestling Illustrated, the undisputed leader amongindependent wrestling magazines Written by Pro Wrestling Illustrated'swriters; illustrated with photography from the magazine's extensivearchives A must-have for serious fans and collectors of wrestlingmemorabilia. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

pretty pictures...false facts
All I had to see was that wrestler bio's had incorrect information.DDP's birthdate among others, PWI does a great job usually...could this really be their project...or just their photos? Photo's are excellent, but you canfind those in WCW or WWF Magazine.

Wrestling Maddness: A Ringside Look At Wrestling Superstars
This is a good book. It covers alot of basic background information of the top names in the sport. The only own-fall is that it covers so amy of the same wrestlers that many hardcore wresling fans already know alot of info about. I would like to see info on different wrestlers, but this is a goodbook besides that. A mustt for anyone who wants tpo know how the top namesbroke into the sport. ... Read more

Product Description
It starts with an insult...then comes a push, a shove...a betrayal. Before you know it, the two wrestlers are at each other's throats. It's a rivalry, it's personal...it's a showdown.

Some showdowns are straightforward: John Cena wants to prove himself by taking on JBL; Randy Orton knows that if he can slay Undertaker, it will prove that he is the legend killer. Others are grudge matches -- The Rock is finally going to put Stone Cold Steve Austin, the bionic redneck, in his place.

There are conflicts we can all identify with: Steve Austin doing to Mr. McMahon what we dream of doing to our boss every Monday morning. There are the epic showdowns that evoke the eternal struggle: Undertaker versus Kane. And the truly bizarre: Mankind against Shawn Michaels.

Here for the first time ever, Jeremy Roberts (co-author of Controversy Creates Cash and Batista Unleashed) examines the top twenty rivalries of the past twenty years. Roberts takes us on a veritable tour of recent wrestling history, from Hulk Hogan's showdowns with Randy Savage to the gargantuan struggles between Undertaker and Batista. The high-flying action of the Hardy Boyz, the Dudleys, Edge & Christian -- all are examined in what amounts to a brief for the wrestlers' inclusion in the hall of fame. From the Monday Night Wars between nWo and D-Generation X to the real-life conflict that spawned Matt Hardy's memorable bloodfest with Edge, Roberts takes you into the ring so vividly you'll come away with bruises. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Good for memories
Take it or leave it, that's all there is to this book. It sits right in the middle. It has potential to bring back memories of great rivalries but it is all a bit candy-coated and blaise in it's presentation. This only covers showdowns "from the past 20 years" and also only includes the rivalries of the WWE with the half exception of nWo/DX cross. Most of the entries are deserving to be here but, as others mentioned, no Undertaker v Mankind but rather Ric Flair v Mr Perfect... I barely remember this one and that was only from reading the entry. Really it should have been changed for something more significant. Some entries seem to be there to give a nod to the former stars. There were arguably better 'showdowns' that could have been included.

Good for briefly showcasing past battles and some trivia but you can easily survive without bothering with the book. It's a straight forward WWE publication that strokes the egos of the writers and participants.

no Mankind vs. Undertaker, don't buy it!!!
Bottom line is I was very dissapointed.If you watched wrestling especially in the 90's you know that Undertaker vs. Mankind was the biggest rivalry ever.Sure Michaels and Bret was a major professional/non professional rivalry, but Undertaker vs. Mankind had the most brutal matches. In each match Undertaker and mankind did at least one or two things that could of ligitamitly killed one another.They sacrificed thier bodies for the industry.They were involved in a boiler room brawl match, a no dq match, a hell in a cell match, a buried alive match and much much more.Mankind put Undertaker's face on fire and really burned him.It's sad to say these two didn't have a match at wrestlemania and because of so heightened rivalries like the Rock and Stone Cold, people would never put them on the top of the list as the greates rivalry of all time.In my opinion, from brutality, physical abuse, match selection, stotyline, backdraft to pay per views, Undertaker vs. Mankind is by far the Greatest Rivalry that wresting has ever seen.Not putting them at # 1 or even in showdowns make this buy not even worth looking at.

Quick and fun read for WWE fans of all ages!
Showdowns: The 20 Greatest Wrestling Rivalries of the Last Two Decades (WWE) was a pleasant read showcasing some of the greatest rivalries in WWE history. Highlights include feuds between The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin, Randy Orton and The Undertaker, and Shawn Michaels and Bret Hart. Flaws include the ultimate short nature of the book as well as the failure to include some of the greatest rivalries of All-Time i.e. Mankind vs. Undertaker, or even mentioning The Hell in a Cell match whilst discussing the Jericho/Triple H feud. ... Read more

Product Description
Heart of Darkness - An eerie look at The Undertaker. Big D and Little D - Doink and Dink. Shawn Michaels - The Greatest Intercontinental Champion? Also included...Macho Man interview, WrestleMania - Tenth anniversary, and Bret vs. Owen Hart. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (43)

Love it
Missy doesnt hold back. This book has a lot of little scoops about some of the other wrestlers.

One Of The Best
This is one of the best reads ever from a pro wrestling star. She tells all and shares a lot of stories from outside of the ring!

Like Having Coffee With Miss Hyatt/Hiatt
Reading this book was what I imagine sitting down to talk to Missy Hyatt over coffee about her career in wrestling would be like.From her beginnings as the girlfriend of Jake "The Snake" Roberts to the present day, this book clearly shows why she is the "First Lady of Wrestling" in a way that feels like you are chatting with your best friend.The writers do not throw in too much technical lingo of the profession and they keep the information flowing in a chronological manner that has an organic flow so it should appeal to even non-wrestling fans who would like to read about a remarkable woman's career.I'm a fan of the old USWA shows out of Memphis, and reading about her and Gilbert's time there brought back a flood of memories of my childhood.If you are a wrestling fan, you must read this book.

Suprisingly sweet
What I thought would be a tawdry tell-all, turned out to actually be a sweet look back at the career of probably the greatest valet/female manager in the history of professional wrestling. Like many other who have read it, my favorite recollections were of her love story with Eddie Gilbert. With the volatile nature of professional wrestling, I really believe that if Missy and Eddie had met under different circumstances and in a different profession...Eddie would still be alive and they would still be married, with children and enjoying a life together. And somehow, I think Missy would agree.

A good book as far as wrestling publications go, but reading it disarmed me. I thought I was going to get a lot of dirt, and what I got was totally different...and refreshingly welcome.

Missy Hyatt, First Lady of Wrestling
It was nice to read about the expereinces of Missy Hyatt in the world of Professional Wrestling.Up until the WWE became the monopoly in Pro wrestling, wrestling has always been my number one passion, and my favorite days were in the late 80s to mid 90's, although I grew up on wrestling in the early 70's with Ray Stevens, Pat Patterson, and Big Time Wrestling in the Bay Area.
Anyhow, reading Missy's personal and professional life in the lime light was fun, and also to read about the tragedies of losing her ex-husband and the relationship problems that she endured helped to see her as a real person who was learning from the depths of life which leads one to grow, develop, and mature.
Finally, the book is a nice blend of the excitement associated with life in the fast lane and coming to terms with the life fans don't see when the camera is off.

Brian Jensen, Ph.D.
... Read more

Product Description

"Classy" Freddie Blassie was universally acknowledged as one of the most hated heels in wrestling history. Freddie really knew how to antagonize the fans -- how to "get heat." Death threats were frequent, enraged fans stabbed him twenty-one times, and he was even doused with acid. Undeterred, Blassie just took the action up a level. He reveled in being the heel. It was commonplace to see him biting his opponents and then spitting out their blood. Blassie would routinely "file" his teeth during interviews. His matches in Los Angeles' Olympic Stadium brought him to the attention of Hollywood. Freddie's style and unpredictability made him a natural for the medium, and he became one of the biggest draws in the wrestling business. In the early '60s, he was invited to wrestle in Japan. Blassie both horrified and mesmerized sedate Japanese society.

At seventeen, Freddie made his wrestling debut in a carnival. Unhappy with his choice of occupation, his family persuaded him to get a "real" job, and for a while he worked as a meatcutter. But after serving in the Navy in World War II, Freddie returned to wrestling. Here he picked up his catch phrase: "pencil neck geek."

Early in his career, Blassie wrestled for Jess McMahon, and would later work for both his son, Vincent James McMahon, and his grandson, Vincent Kennedy McMahon, the current owner of World Wrestling Entertainment. ™ When his days in the ring ended, "Classy" Freddie Blassie became the manager of heels, transferring to a whole new generation of wrestlers the style, moves, and ring knowledge that had made him a legend of wrestling.

Released just prior to his death, Legends of Wrestling: "Classy" Freddie Blassie contains vibrant tales of his days in wrestling with the likes of Hulk Hogan, Killer Kowalski, and the Iron Sheik. He frankly chronicles his dealings with the wrestling fraternity and the promoters, even recounting the infamous "boxer vs. wrestler" match with Muhammad Ali, who was managed by Blassie.

His out-of-the-ring stories are equally compelling. Freddie details his countless sexual exploits, and his three marriages. He reflects on the cult status that he gained after his song "Pencil Neck Geek" rocketed to the top of the Dr. Demento Show play list. He recounts his touching relationship with comedian Andy Kaufman, who cast him in Breakfast with Blassie -- an underground classic in which Blassie uttered: "What the hell ever happened to the human race?"

Added to this edition is an epilogue, recounting Freddie's last days and his unforgettable funeral. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (30)

blassie truly classy
what an awesome book. I have been a wrestling fan for years. My boyfriend wanted this book, so after he read it, he convinced me to check it. There is a lot of great wrestling history and the story is truly absorbing. a must read for everyone who likes wrestling.

An American Original
Others may use the epithet, but few live it. Classy Freddie Blassie was one who did. In a country where the self-made man can still rise to the top, Blassie was one who went his own way, forging a path for others to follow. Whether as a wrestler or a manager, he entertained millions throughout his career, a special cog in the World Werestling Federation machine.

Entertaining collection of wrestling anecdotes!
This book is like watching a documentary on the life of Freddie Blassie, it doesn't read like a book, you feel like Blassie is talking to you.

It's amazing that a man that went out of his way to make people hate him somehow managed to endear himself to the public the way Freddie Blassie did.He's the man that you love to hate.

The stories in this book are often told from the point of view of Blassie and then features a quote from another aquaintance so you get an outside opinion on the situation.

Overall it's just exciting and often hilarious stories from a truly outrageous performer and athlete who was there at the birth of television and had some great runs with Regis Philbin and Andy Kaufman.

It should be noted that this is not a kid-friendly book, it has a lot of "colorful" language and stories.

Buy and enjoy, I know I did!

JAPANESE LIKE FREDDIE VERY MUCH
In mid 60's, a Japanese elderly lady was shocked to death when she watched TV where Freddie was bititng Rikidozen on his head.This was a real story.He was a real villan in Japan.But we knew that his wife was a Japanese, he likes Japan. We like him very much."Vampire Blassie" forever.Review from Tokyo.

"That's why all these broads love me!"
All you really need to know about me is the names of my five idols: Stan Lee, Stan Laurel, Gomez Adams, Steve McGarrett and Freddie Blassie (hmmm, they are all to some degree fictional--that's something I'll have to bring up in therapy).

Anyway, this is a thoroughly enjoyable and quick read that recounts the well-known events of Freddie's life and spills some beans about him and other wrestling superstars, too.I suspect that it's very heavily ghost-written but what the heck...and if it's cliche to call someone an original, then what the heck again--if anyone deserves it, it's Freddie Blassie. ... Read more

Product Description
Dan Gable's feats as a wrestler and coach have established him as the top figure in the history of the sport:

• 15 NCAA Championships and 21 Big Ten Conference championships and a 355-21-5 mark as a head coach
• a 182-1 record and five championships as a high school and college wrestler
• a 6-0 unscored-upon record as an Olympic gold medallist in 1972

In Coaching Wrestling Successfully, Gable shares the special philosophy, motivational techniques, training plans, teaching methods, match strategies, and evaluation systems he used to build his wrestling dynasty. Gable also provides a rare insight into the influential people, lasting lessons, inner drive, and mental focus that spurred him to championship after championship.

If you coach wrestlers, this book is a blueprint on how to be the best. If you wrestle, this book challenges you to develop yourself into a tough, competitive champion.

And if you're a wrestling fan, this book is an inside look at the greatest figure ever in the sport. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Not an effective resource for new coaches.
Although I have coached other sports for years, and in fact have published two books on coaching football, this year is my first as a wrestling coach.

I ordered Coach Gable's book hoping to find a comprehensive collegiate wrestling manual. Unfortunately, what I got is a 'jack of all trades, master of none' book that discusses Greco-Roman, Folkstyle, and Freestyle techniques without emphasis on any of them. Technique descriptions are incredibly vague, (usually limited to three pictures and a few sentences of descriptive matter) and some complex moves are difficult (nigh impossible) to decipher.

Additionally, as an amateur athletic historian I am fascinated by Coach Gable's lengthy sidebars and stories about the athletes of which he is justifiably proud. However, as a new wrestling coach trying to improve his team I find these sidebars simply get in the way and make it impossible to locate the information I need. Additionally, the lack of an index of any kind makes the book close to useless for rapid research-- you cannot, for example, thumb quickly to the back of the book and look for "Double Leg Takedown" in the index.

The organization leaves a great deal to be desired. Wrestling is commonly divided into takedowns (from neutral position), breakdowns (from top position), escapes (from bottom), reversals (from bottom) and pinning combinations (from top). If I were to write a book on this subject it would be divided in such a way. However, Coach Gable instead chose to limit his technique descriptions to "skills and drills" with no real distinction between what is a SKILL (such as a specific takedown) and what is a DRILL (such as a high-hip drill for executing takedowns). This lack of organization makes it further antagonizing to try to locate information quickly. These drills ARE divided into "Drills for when you are on top" and "Drills for when you are on bottom" but all styles of wrestling are lumped together and it is extremely difficult to locate style-specific information.

Furthermore, the techniques described are all highly technical variants ofeach throw, hold, or pinning combination. Instead of the simple double leg takedown in four steps (shoot, grasp, lift, and spin), the vastly more complex (and difficult to execute) ankle trip is described.

Because of the lack of organization and the overwhelming and irrelevant anecdotal presentation, I find I cannot recommend this book as an effective resource for new wrestling coaches.

~D.
Derek A. "Coach" Wade

More philosophical than practical.
Dan Gable is the man, there can be no doubt.But I was a little disappointed with this book.I was expecting more of an instruction manual, but this is more about the philosophies of coaching.It's not a bad book and I don't regret getting it, but it wasn't what I was expecting.It is about coaching from a mostly theoretical standpoint.I think I was expecting a book more like the book "Winning Wrestling Moves" and this led to my slight disappointment.

Wrestling Review
This is a great book for any coach or wrestler,It is a must for anyone involved in the sport.

Dan Gable proves why he is the best
A good mix of stories, technique, and coaching philosopy.Not everyone will be able to get away with having the coaching style Dan Gable does but he shows how he has made it successful.I would recommend this book to anycoach interested in learning and touching the souls of thier athletes.

The most important points of coaching are here.
Many wrestlers and coaches may base their reviews of a coaching book on the quantity or quality of moves found within. I do believe that the book does well in this area. However, its true success is in its discussion andadvice on communication, motivation, planning and developing a philosophy.It is what separates it from other "how to wrestle" books. It isa book for coaches. The basics are the most important part of wrestling,not any special tricks or throws. The edge over other teams is found in thelittle extras a coach can do to make sure his wrestlers are motivated tolearn and to win. This book is exactly what I was looking for. Ipurchased this book just after the 1998-99 season, my fourth as a head highschool coach. My credentials include winning Conference Titles in each ofthose years, coaching the first Team State qualifier from the conference in'98 and '99 and earning various state coaching awards. I am pleased I havedone some of the things Gable suggests, but I believe this book can makethings even better next season. Also, I haven't ever been any kind of DanGable die-hard, although now I understand why people are. ... Read more

Product Description
Originally published in 1999, "Black Stars of Professional Wrestling (Second Edition)" is the long-awaited story of the contributions of the Black athletes that've participated in one of America's most popular sporting events. This second edition is a revised and updated version of the popular classic. The book features nearly 200 photographs and biographies of Black pro wrestlers from the late 19th Century to today. Little known facts and rarely seen pictures tell the story of some of the most gifted but largely overlooked athletes of all time. Readers will learn about legends like Reggie Siki, Woody Strode, Luther Lindsay, Tiger Conway, Thunderbolt Patterson, Bobo Brazil, and Bearcat Wright, the first Black holder of a version of the world title. They'll even read about the stars of today like Booker T, The Rock, Shelton Benjamin, Bobby Lashley, Mark Henry, and R-Truth. Also covered in the book are Black females, midgets, and celebrity wrestlers from other sports throughout various decades. With "Black Stars of Professional Wrestling (Second Edition)", the long forgotten warriors are finally given their place of honor in sports history. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Not as good as I hoped
I purchased this book as a gift to my husband, we are both life long wrestling fans and I figued he would get enjoyment from this title. Upon recipt this book was not as good as the description would make out. I expected stories of Black Pro wrestlers, backgrounds and what they went through to break into pro wrestling, this book is FAR from that kind of information.
It only offers NAMES and a few lines of basic information about each wrestler. The pictures are very limited and in some cases, there is just a name, and no Information about the wrestler at all. Steer Clear of this one!

Very Interesting
I enjoyed this book very much.I was never aware of wrestlers like Bearcat Wright who fought for desegregation in wrestling.I also enjoyed reading the profiles of Junkyard Dog,Jacqueline(my favorite),Ernie Ladd,& RonSimmons.The only drawback of this book is that Mr.Shabazz should have donemore research on the wrestlers that were mentioned just by name.Overall,ifyou're a real wrestling fan who wants to be educated on the Black wrestler& their accomplishments,pick up this book!

booooorring
I couldn't keep my eyes open.Buy this book if you have trouble sleeping at night.

"Racism" in a different package
This is probably the worst wrestling book I have ever read. The information is great on many of the wrestlers I have followed. So what the wrestlers are black?This is another example of someone using therace card to cash in. Black people such as myself should shy away frommaking these liberals rich.

Finally! The history of Blacks in pro wrestling is told!
Julian Shabazz's book, "Black Stars of Professional Wrestling" is long, long overdue.It is a very interesting and fascinating book about these great athletes' contributions.To read the stories about such greatcompetitors as Thunderbolt Patterson, Bearcat Wright, Rocky Johnson and theJunkyard Dog is a tremendous thrill.

If you are a true wrestling fan, youwill learn things you didn't know.This is truly a marvelous book! ... Read more

Product Description
In the early 20th century, one man ruled the tough world of professional wrestling -- Frank Gotch. Learning the ferocious craft of catch-as-catch-can wrestling under the tutelage of catch wrestling master Martin "Farmer" Burns and in regular, brutal bouts in the ring, Gotch went on to dominate the sport and become one of the most famous sports figures in the world.

The Life and Legacy of Frank Gotch chronicles Gotch's rise to the pinnacle of the wrestling world before his untimely death in 1917. It provides little-known details about his earliest matches, his trip to Alaska to hone his wrestling skills, his training under Farmer Burns, his harshly instructive contests with the fierce Tom Jenkins and his two epic bouts against the "Russian Lion," the great George Hackenschmidt. Author Mike Chapman offers intriguing speculation about how Gotch may have matched up against some of the other top wrestlers of all time, and he has unearthed fascinating accounts from wrestling legends, promoters and sports writers, during and after the Gotch era, who all weigh in on why Gotch was the greatest of them all. Close to 80 photos, many of which are being published for the first time in nearly a century, round out this portrait of one of the most influential figures in the history of professional wrestling. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

An Engaging Look At A Mat Legend
Mike Chapman has provided an engaging overview of the life of Frank Gotch. While the text part of the book is not much more than a long magazine article, the author covers all the key points of Gotch's story: his beginnings; his discovery by the legendary wrestler/trainer--Farmer Burns, the controversy surrounding his bouts with George Hackenschmidt.

Chapman presents a convincing case that Hackenschmidt was just a poor loser, who couldn't accept the fact that his plodding Greco-Roman style was just no match for Gotch and his aggressive, and full-out catch style of wrestling. One can't help but imagine how Gotch would have fared in today's MMA style!

The real delight of this book is in the photo section. It is simply wonderful and establishes Gotch as one of the first national sports heroes. He is also one of the first to cash in on that fame by product endorsements, including harley-Davidson.

This little book is well worth reading--for both the casual reader, and the student of wrestling history. ... Read more

Product Description
-One of America's strangest, yet most popular, cable TVspectacles, with over 20 million fans

-Behind-the-scenes insight on the culture of professional wrestling

-Seventy top-ten lists feature the zaniest gimmicks, most outlandishperformers, craziest fans, most dreaded holds, and most diabolicalmatches

Former wrestling star Jesse “The Body” Ventura was electedgovernor of Minnesota in 1998.Comedian Andy Kaufman was onceinvolved in a series of wrestling grudge matches.Tricky Ricky Starwas a ballet dancer who wrestled.Irwin R. Schyster was a wrestlingIRS agent.Morgus the Maniac is a mental patient who enters the ringin a straightjacket.Baby Huey is a 500-pound wrestler who dresses asa baby.The Gargoyle likes to gnaw on opponent’s feet.

WRSTLING’S MOST WANTED profiles 700 of the most outrageouswrestlers, obnoxious managers, and powerful promoters in pro wrestlinghistory, including all of today’s greatest stars, including HulkHogan, The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Undertaker, Mick Foley,Goldberg, and Sid Vicious.It also remembers the greats of the past,such as Gorgeous George, Dick the Bruiser, The Sheik, Superfly, JimmySnuka, Argentina Rocca, Abdullah the Butcher, Bruno Sammartino, andAndre the Giant. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great idea for a book on the biz, but does not deliver
Books on the subject of pro wrestling are coming out in great quantity these days. A few are great, many are so-so, and some are disappointing. I hate to say this book is one of the disappointments; I love the idea of a pro wrestling "book of lists," I've even known enthusiasts who have considered trying out the idea. "Wrestling's Most Wanted" delivers list after list of stage names, family combos, gimmicks... the categories themselves are interesting, but the examples give little interesting information other than citing who used what gimmick, who uses which finishing hold, etc... I doubt the author really knows a lot about pro wrestling; it seems like he merely collected a book's worth of information and tossed them into a book. Maybe those who know nothing about the pro wrestling biz might enjoy some of the newfound information in these lists; if so, kudos to the author for turning newbies into possible fans. If you are, on the other hand, a wrestling fan who is only even ankle deep in your pro wrestling studies and initiation, you are much better off purchasing the autobiographies of Lou Thesz, Mick Foley and Dynamite Kid. ... Read more