AWA All-Star Wrestling Cast List

Regarded as the patriarch of AWA, Verne Gagne's unwavering commitment to wrestling saw him dominate the ring for over three decades, successfully securing 10 AWA World Championships and putting the wrestling world into disarray. Known for his unforgiving and relentless grappling style, Gagne was an absolute force in the ring, incorporating his amateur wrestling background with the sharp, technical precision that left his opponents gasping for air. His hair-raising battles with the likes of Fritz Von Erich and Mad Dog Vachon, paired with his impeccable skills, cemented Gagne's status as not only an AWA legend but a true titan in the sport.

Curt Hennig's meteoric rise in the AWA created shockwaves throughout the wrestling community, transforming him into the perfect storm. Possessing the rare trifecta of charisma, intelligence, and athleticism, "Mr. Perfect" held numerous titles including the AWA World Heavyweight Championship, which he captured after defeating the legendary Nick Bockwinkel. As masterful in his technical prowess as he was cunning, Hennig's classic feuds with Greg Gagne and Jerry Lawler showcased his ability to captivate audiences all over the world.

Hailing from England, Billy Robinson became the epitome of the consummate wrestler, amassing an international following through his profound technical acumen and unyielding ring presence. Known for his deadly submission holds and punishing suplexes, Robinson captured the hearts of fans while tormenting his opponents in unforgettable bouts with legends such as Verne Gagne, Giant Baba, and Lou Thesz. Holding both the AWA British Empire Heavyweight Championship and the AWA World Tag Team Championship, Robinson's contributions to the art of wrestling are truly immeasurable.

Brad Rheingans was no stranger to the wrestling world, transitioning from a storied amateur career that included multiple Olympic appearances to becoming one of AWA's premier athletes. His unparalleled power and agility, combined with an arsenal of devastating suplexes, garnered him success in both singles and tag team competition. Rheingans' heavyweight title pursuits against champions Curt Hennig and Nick Bockwinkel cemented him as a legitimate threat in the squared circle.

The "Big Thunder" Gene Kiniski charged into the AWA with a powerful presence, merciless in his pursuit of championship gold. His aggressive brawling style struck fear into his opponents, showcasing his adaptability in the ring against anyone who dared to face him. While his tenure in AWA may have been brief, memorable battles with Verne Gagne and Larry Hennig demonstrate why Kiniski is heralded as a legend in the wrestling world.

Before he became the "Heartbreak Kid," Shawn Michaels cut his teeth in the world of AWA wrestling, crafting a reputation as a daring and talented high-flyer. Teaming with Marty Jannetty as The Midnight Rockers, they would become two-time AWA Tag Team Champions in a series of electrifying matches against Buddy Rose and Doug Somers. Although Michaels would later find worldwide fame in WWE, his roots in AWA helped lay the foundation for the Showstopper he would become.

Suave, sophisticated, and incredibly skilled, Nick Bockwinkel was the epitome of a classic wrestling champion, amassing four AWA World Heavyweight Championships throughout his career. Combining technical expertise with psychological mastery, Bockwinkel often outwitted and outmaneuvered his opponents, engaging in legendary feuds with the likes of Verne Gagne, Hulk Hogan, and Jerry Lawler. As a true icon of AWA, Bockwinkel's talent and charisma undoubtedly left an indelible mark on professional wrestling.

Before the world knew him as Razor Ramon or an Outsider, Scott Hall was a force to be reckoned with in AWA, showcasing his impressive power and agility as "Big" Scott Hall. Frequently teaming with Curt Hennig, Hall's tenacity and brawling style earned him multiple championship opportunities and classic encounters against greats like Nick Bockwinkel and Verne Gagne. Although Hall would achieve greater fame elsewhere, his time in AWA remains a critical stepping stone on his path to becoming an industry icon.

Famed for his long-standing rivalry with Andy Kaufman, Jerry "The King" Lawler made his presence felt in AWA through his charismatic performances, unyielding confidence, and unforgettable mouthpiece antics. As an AWA World Heavyweight Champion, Lawler's innovative brawling and technical wrestling style earned him numerous accolades and memorable bouts against the likes of Curt Hennig and Kerry Von Erich. Lawler's reign in AWA firmly solidified his status as a true royalty in the professional wrestling realm.

Standing at 7'4" and weighing over 500 pounds, Andre the Giant was a larger-than-life figure whose presence could not be ignored. His imposing stature and raw strength captivated fans worldwide, earning him an AWA World Tag Team Championship reign alongside Dusty Rhodes. Although his career soared to new heights in the WWE, Andre's brief but impactful tenure with AWA demonstrated just how colossal his influence would become within the wrestling world.

Mean Gene Okerlund's dulcet tones and quick wit transcended the world of wrestling, transforming him into one of the most beloved personalities in AWA and beyond. His captivating interview style and undeniable charisma extracted the best from established legends and rising stars alike, facilitating memorable moments with the likes of Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, and Verne Gagne. Okerlund's contributions to the AWA were truly indispensable, and his passing left an irreplaceable void in the wrestling world.

Before running wild in WWE, Hulk Hogan got his vaunted start in AWA, where he employed his iconic power moves and unmatched charisma to captivate audiences worldwide. As Hogan battled legendary competitors like Nick Bockwinkel and Jerry "The King" Lawler, it became apparent that he was destined for greatness—and the term "Hulkamania" began to reverberate throughout wrestling arenas everywhere. Hogan's AWA tenure laid the groundwork for becoming one of the most illustrious and influential figures in professional wrestling history.

Wielding a rare combination of brute strength and technical mastery, Harley Race cut an imposing figure in the storied annals of AWA history. Already a multiple-time world champion in other territories, Race arrived in AWA to tangle with the likes of Verne Gagne and Nick Bockwinkel—giving fans bouts they'd never forget. Though his AWA stint was relatively brief, Harley Race's commitment to the industry and sheer force of will made him an essential fixture in wrestling's golden age.

Jim "The Anvil" Brunzell was renowned for his high-flying agility, which he honed to perfection during his tenures in AWA and WWE. Teaming with Greg Gagne as The High Flyers, Brunzell captured the AWA World Tag Team Championship on two separate occasions, providing fans with unforgettable battles against The East-West Connection and The Road Warriors. His dynamic skill set and aerial prowess elevated him to the upper echelons of wrestling's elite.

Before becoming a legendary advocate and wrestling promoter, a young Paul Heyman arrived in AWA, already showing signs of his innate ability to engage and entertain fans as a manager. Guiding original members of his Dangerous Alliance, including Adrian Adonis and "Ravishing" Rick Rude, Heyman quickly garnered attention and acclaim, demonstrating his unparalleled talent for crafting nefarious plots. The AWA was a crucial launching pad for Heyman's career, as he would later cement his legacy as one of the most esteemed minds in professional wrestling.

Though "Macho Man" Randy Savage is primarily associated with his WWE exploits, he began his rise to prominence in AWA, showcasing his unmatched charisma, athletic prowess, and extravagant stylings. As a member of the AWA roster, Savage built a loyal following, engaging in enticing feuds and matches against the likes of Jerry Lawler and Ricky Steamboat. The Macho Man's time in AWA was a testament to his exceptional character work and undeniable impact on the wrestling world.

Dragon Ricky Steamboat dazzled fans with his breathtaking athleticism and unwavering focus during his brief sojourn in AWA. Steamboat's storied battles with legends like Randy Savage and Rick Martel were a testament to his talent and ring psychology. Although Steamboat found greater fame elsewhere, his AWA tenure showcased just how magical and mesmerizing the Dragon could be inside the squared circle.

Eric Bischoff's contributions to the wrestling world are vast and varied, but it was in AWA where he initially made his mark as a promising on-air personality. Bischoff's keen sense of storytelling, combined with his razor-sharp wit and charisma, allowed him to effortlessly connect with wrestling fans in various capacities. His AWA experience laid the foundation for an impressive career that ultimately saw Bischoff become one of the dominant forces behind WCW's rise to power.

Fred Ottman became a staple in the world of AWA thanks to his undeniable strength and imposing size, amassing an impressive array of opponents throughout his tenure. Competing as part of the tag team The Twin Towers, Ottman's powerhouse style provided a perfect contrast to partner Jerry Saggs' brawling expertise. Despite achieving greater notoriety in WWE, Ottman's time in AWA showcased his innate ability to combine brute force with a magnetic presence in the ring.

The Nature Boy Ric Flair's unapologetic bravado and unparalleled technical skill ascended him to legend status in multiple organizations, and his short-lived tenure in AWA was no exception. Though better known for his exploits in NWA and WCW, Flair's appearances in AWA offered memorable clashes with titans like Hulk Hogan and Verne Gagne—each one dripping in the opulent drama that only the Nature Boy could deliver. Flair's tireless pursuit of being "the man" led him to leave an indelible mark on AWA history, solidifying his status as one of wrestling's all-time greats.

As one half of the legendary tag team The Road Warriors, Road Warrior Hawk brought pure power and anarchy to the AWA scene alongside his partner Animal. Combining their menacing appearance with a brutally aggressive brawling style, Hawk was instrumental in their capture of the AWA World Tag Team Championships in 1984, quickly establishing The Road Warriors as a force to be reckoned with. Hawk's time in AWA set the stage for further dominance in the wrestling world, where he and Animal would become one of the most successful and feared tag teams in history.

Before gaining infamy in WWE, The Iron Sheik was already leaving an indelible mark on the wrestling landscape in AWA. Showcasing his unique blend of technical expertise and powerful submission holds, The Iron Sheik's Persian Club Challenge cemented his status as a fearsome competitor, who was knowledgeable about his craft and unafraid to flaunt it. His infamous confrontations with fan favorites like Rick Martel and Mad Dog Vachon proved that The Iron Sheik was a force to be reckoned with both in and out of the ring.

Italian-born Leo Nomellini, aka "The Lion," stormed into AWA, showcasing sheer power and an intimidating presence that laid waste to any opponent in his path. As a former two-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion, Nomellini came to AWA intent on continuing his reign of terror—engaging in legendary battles against the likes of Verne Gagne and Killer Kowalski. The Lion's devastating offense and unwavering determination made him a prominent figure in AWA's early years.

The charismatic Jesse "The Body" Ventura used his silver tongue and powerful physique to create a lasting impression in AWA. Whether in singles competition or alongside Adrian Adonis as one half of the East-West Connection, Ventura masterfully combined the art of wrestling with character work, winning the AWA World Tag Team Championship along the way. His unforgettable time in AWA not only paved the way for future success in WWE but also led to eventual political endeavors, culminating in Ventura becoming the Governor of Minnesota.

As "Dick The Bruiser," William Afflis's brute strength and relentless approach to wrestling captivated fans during his tenure in AWA. Along with his cousin and tag team partner The Crusher, Afflis captured the AWA World Tag Team Championship five times, engaging in legendary feuds against The Road Warriors and Heenan Family members. The Bruiser's no-nonsense style and penchant for punishing his opponents made him a beloved figure in wrestling history and ensured his AWA legacy lived on for generations to come.

Wildfire Tommy Rich's AWA stint showcased his incredible versatility in the ring, balancing intense brawling with smooth technical prowess. As a former NWA World Heavyweight Champion, Rich came to AWA determined to prove himself against top talents like Verne Gagne, Jerry Lawler, and Nick Bockwinkel. Rich's passionate dedication to wrestling and his ability to connect with fans resulted in a memorable impact on the AWA landscape.

During his brief tenure in AWA, Magnum T.A.'s charisma and ferocity established him as a rising star in professional wrestling. His intense feuds against competitors like Tully Blanchard and Kamala, as well as high-stakes title matches, demonstrated his relentless drive for success. Although his AWA tenure was short-lived, Magnum T.A. captured the imagination of fans and fellow wrestlers alike, ensuring his place in wrestling lore.

Wrestling powerhouse Dr. Bill Miller was a force to be reckoned with in AWA, using his incredible strength and athletic background to dominate opponents. As one half of the AWA World Tag Team Champions alongside his brother Dan Miller, Dr. Bill engaged in classic battles against the likes of The Crusher and Verne Gagne. His imposing presence and undeniable talents allowed Miller to leave a lasting legacy in the annals of AWA wrestling.

Donning his iconic red, white, and blue mask, The Patriot brought a wave of patriotic fervor to AWA, channeling his love for the United States into a hard-hitting and dynamic in-ring style. His celebrated feuds against foreign adversaries and relentless pursuit of championship gold endeared him to fans across the country. The Patriot's unwavering dedication and passion for his craft made him a beloved figure in the world of professional wrestling.

For over two decades, Buck "Rock 'n' Roll" Zumhofe entertained AWA fans with his energetic, high-flying displays and his signature boombox entrance. As a multiple-time AWA Light Heavyweight Champion, Zumhofe battled a variety of challengers, showcasing his unparalleled aerial abilities and engaging persona. Though his career was marred by controversy, there's no denying the impact Zumhofe had on the AWA and the light heavyweight division during his tenure.

The menacing and fearsome Ox Baker struck terror into the hearts of AWA opponents with his imposing stature and brutal brawling style. Baker's signature move, the Heart Punch, became legendary within the wrestling world, often incapacitating even the toughest adversaries. While engaging in heated feuds against the likes of Mad Dog Vachon and The Crusher, Ox Baker's sinister presence and ruthless in-ring approach cemented him as a true villain in the annals of AWA history.

Dr. D David Schultz brought his hard-hitting, no-nonsense style to AWA rings with great success, proving he was a force to be reckoned with in professional wrestling. Showcasing his undeniable toughness and genuine dislike for authority, Schultz engaged in memorable battles with major AWA stars like Jerry Lawler and Hulk Hogan. Schultz's relentless intensity and brutal techniques left a lasting impression on fans and competitors alike during his time in AWA.

Sailor Art Thomas combined his powerlifting background with a chiseled physique to dominate opponents during his tenure in AWA. His memorable clashes with legends like Verne Gagne and Buddy Rogers showcased Thomas's unparalleled strength, as well as his dedication to sportsmanship. Sailor Art Thomas's unique combination of raw power and athletic prowess made him an influential figure in the world of professional wrestling.

Rick Martel's AWA career is the stuff of legend, as he consistently demonstrated his technical mastery and relentless determination to overcome any obstacle inside the squared circle. As both a singles competitor and one half of the tag team Strike Force, Martel excelled in championship gold pursuits, eventually capturing the AWA World Heavyweight Championship from Jumbo Tsuruta. Martel's exciting in-ring style and charisma endeared him to fans, creating a legacy that is still celebrated today.

Angelo "King Kong" Mosca commanded attention both in and out of the ring with his larger-than-life personality and raw, punishing wrestling style. The former Canadian Football League star transitioned seamlessly into the squared circle, engaging in unforgettable feuds with the likes of Nick Bockwinkel and Mad Dog Vachon. Mosca's mixture of brawling and power moves, along with his unyielding competitive spirit, made him a formidable presence in the AWA landscape.

Randy Rose developed a reputation in AWA as a devious competitor whose cunning tactics and in-ring abilities saw him garner great success. As a member of the original Midnight Express alongside Dennis Condrey, Rose captured the AWA Southern Tag Team Championship, engaging in memorable battles against teams such as The Rock 'n' Roll Express and The Fabulous Ones. Rose's ability to expertly blend technical maneuvering with a ruthless edge made him an unforgettable figure during his AWA tenure.

Hands of Stone Ron Garvin demonstrated his unrelenting toughness and incredible striking ability throughout his time in AWA. With a blend of aggressive brawling and technical wrestling, Garvin proved he was a force to be reckoned with, capturing the AWA Southern Heavyweight Championship and engaging in fierce rivalries with the likes of Terry Taylor and Randy Savage. Despite achieving greater fame elsewhere, Garvin's hard-hitting style left an undeniable mark on AWA history.

As one half of the tag team The Destruction Crew alongside Wayne Bloom, Mike Enos made a significant impact during his tenure in AWA. With their brutal, wrecking-ball style, The Destruction Crew captured the AWA World Tag Team Championship, decimating opponents like Greg Gagne and Jim Brunzell. Enos's combination of power and agility, along with his tag team success, cemented his status as a major player in the AWA wrestling scene.

Dennis Condrey's storied career was marked by tag team dominance in multiple organizations, including AWA. As a founding member of The Midnight Express, Condrey brought his cunning intellect and technical prowess to the ring, capturing several championships alongside partner Randy Rose. Condrey's unrelenting pursuit of gold and penchant for manipulating opponents earned him a place among the most influential wrestlers in AWA's history.

A true trailblazer, Bobo Brazil's powerful wrestling style and undeniable charisma broke down racial barriers and inspired generations of wrestlers. With his signature move, the Coco Butt, Brazil left a lasting impression on AWA fans during his tenure that saw memorable battles against Nick Bockwinkel and The Iron Sheik. Brazil's commitment to wrestling and his ability to connect with fans from all walks of life made him a beloved figure in the industry and an iconic part of AWA history.

With his imposing presence and brawling expertise, Barry Darsow etched his name in AWA folklore as a versatile wrestler and formidable opponent. As a member of the destructive tag team The Long Riders alongside John Nord, Darsow demonstrated his proficiency in collaborative combat while engaging in heated feuds with top teams of the era. Renowned for his adaptability, Darsow continued to evolve and achieve success throughout his career, leaving an indelible mark on AWA's landscape.

The "Ugandan Giant" Kamala brought a wild, untamed energy to the AWA scene, striking fear into the hearts of his adversaries with his immense stature and animalistic antics. Often accompanied by his handler Skandor Akbar, Kamala utilized his gargantuan size and raw power to engage in memorable matches against the likes of Jerry Lawler and Greg Gagne. Kamala's unique and unforgettable presence made him a truly iconic figure in wrestling history both inside and outside the AWA.

Mitsuharu Misawa's brief tenure in AWA showcased the future legend's incredible technical prowess and innovative in-ring style, which would later solidify his status as one of Japan's most respected and influential wrestlers. During his time in AWA, Misawa engaged in notable encounters against competitors such as Doug Somers and Russ Francis, all while honing his craft and expanding his arsenal of moves. Misawa's AWA stint served as a stepping stone in his illustrious career, building a foundation that would lead to worldwide renown and reverence.

A former NFL star, Russ Francis made a seamless transition to the squared circle, bringing an impressive mix of athleticism and power to AWA. As he tackled formidable opponents like Nick Bockwinkel and Buddy Rose, Francis demonstrated his dedication to mastering the art of professional wrestling. Although he ultimately returned to the NFL, Russ Francis's foray into wrestling left a lasting impression in the AWA archives.

During her heyday, Penny Banner was a pioneering force in women's wrestling, known for her charisma, technical expertise, and adaptability inside the squared circle. Engaging in memorable bouts against the likes of Betty Niccoli and Lillian Ellison (The Fabulous Moolah), Banner helped pave the way for future generations of female competitors. Her AWA career showcased the passion, skill, and drive that earned her a spot in the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame.

One of the founding members of the legendary Four Horsemen, Tully Blanchard made tremendous strides in AWA as both a singles competitor and a tag team specialist. As a second-generation wrestler, Blanchard possessed an innate understanding of wrestling psychology and combined it with his technical mastery. His AWA tenure saw him engage in competitive matches against formidable competitors like Tommy Rich and The Iron Sheik, creating unforgettable moments that showcased his undeniable talent and dedication to the sport.

Jim Barrell brought a distinct combination of brawn and brains to every AWA bout, challenging opponents with his powerful strikes and keen tactical awareness. As one half of the tag team The Alaskans alongside Frank Monte, Barrell demonstrated his ability to excel both in teamwork and singles competition. His indomitable spirit, intellect, and passion for wrestling ensured his impact would be remembered for years to come.

Better known as "The Sheik," Ed Farhat was a true original in the world of wrestling, blending his Middle Eastern heritage with a vicious brawling style that left countless adversaries reeling. During his time in AWA, The Sheik engaged in memorable feuds against legendary competitors such as Verne Gagne and Dick The Bruiser, always pushing his opponents to the absolute limit. Ed Farhat's unique persona and brutal tactics forever changed the landscape of professional wrestling, securing his place in history as a pioneer and innovator.

Iraqi-born Adnan Al-Kaissie brought unmatched intensity and a distinct Arabian flair to AWA rings, utilizing his background in amateur wrestling and Greco-Roman grappling to subdue his rivals. As both a singles competitor and manager, "General" Al-Kaissie was involved in memorable feuds and storylines, often inciting high-stakes geopolitical drama. His undeniable charisma and agile wrestling style made him an essential figure in AWA history.

Scott "Hog" Irwin's rugged style and unyielding determination made him a formidable presence in AWA wrestling. Teaming with his brother Bill as the tag team The Long Riders, the Irwins captured the AWA Southern Tag Team Championship, demonstrating their combined prowess and chemistry. Scott Irwin's brawling techniques and unwavering commitment to wrestling excellence left a lasting legacy in the annals of AWA and beyond.