In the annals of professional wrestling history, there are figures who not only shaped the sport but also left an indelible mark on its evolution. Ed “Strangler” Lewis, born Robert Friedrich in June 30, 1891, was one such pioneer. His impact on wrestling and his role in shaping the early days of the industry were monumental. As we reflect on his final days and the legacy he left behind, we pay tribute to a wrestling icon whose contributions continue to resonate with fans and performers alike.
Ed Lewis’s introduction to the world of professional wrestling was nothing short of remarkable. Hailing from a small farm in Wisconsin, he became involved in wrestling as a teenager, learning the ropes through training and amateur competitions. Lewis quickly established a reputation for his immense strength and technical prowess, earning him the moniker “Strangler” due to his expertise in submission holds.
During the “Golden Age of Wrestling” in the early 20th century, Ed Lewis became a true trailblazer. His innovative approach to grappling and his ability to adapt to various wrestling styles set him apart as a formidable competitor. He was renowned for his “hooking” skills, a style that focused on manipulating opponents’ limbs to secure submission victories. Lewis’s technique revolutionized the sport and laid the foundation for modern professional wrestling.
One of the defining moments of Ed Lewis’s career came in 1920 when he defeated Joe Stecher to capture the World Heavyweight Wrestling Championship. This victory established Lewis as one of the premier wrestlers of his time and marked the beginning of a championship reign that would last for over five years. His rivalry with Stanislaus Zbyszko, which culminated in a historic match at Madison Square Garden, became legendary and further solidified his status as a wrestling icon.
Beyond his in-ring accomplishments, Lewis’s contributions extended to the business side of wrestling. He played a pivotal role in the formation of the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA), an organization that would go on to shape the landscape of professional wrestling for decades to come. Lewis’s influence in the NWA helped establish a standardized set of rules and regulations, ensuring a level playing field for wrestlers and promotions across the country.
In his later years, Ed Lewis transitioned into a mentorship role, passing on his knowledge and wisdom to the next generation of wrestlers. His dedication to preserving the integrity of the sport and his commitment to sharing his expertise with aspiring performers showcased his passion for wrestling’s rich history. His contributions paved the way for generations of wrestlers to come, ensuring that his legacy would live on through their success.
Tragedy struck on August 8, 1966, when news broke of Ed Lewis’s passing at the age of 75. The cause of death was heart failure. The wrestling community mourned the loss of a true pioneer whose impact on the industry was immeasurable. Colleagues, friends, and fans paid tribute to Lewis’s contributions and the lasting impression he had on the world of professional wrestling.
In the years since his passing, Ed “Strangler” Lewis’s legacy has continued to endure. His influence on the technical and strategic aspects of wrestling remains evident in the techniques employed by contemporary wrestlers. The NWA, an organization he helped establish, still holds significance in the wrestling landscape, and its legacy is a testament to Lewis’s dedication to the sport.
As we remember Ed “Strangler” Lewis’s final days, we celebrate not only his in-ring achievements but also his role as a visionary. He was a wrestler, a mentor, and a key figure in shaping the foundations of professional wrestling as we know it today. His journey from a farm in Wisconsin to the pinnacle of wrestling success stands as an inspiration to those who seek to leave their mark on the world.
In the world of professional wrestling, pioneers like Ed “Strangler” Lewis are often unsung heroes, their contributions sometimes overshadowed by modern glitz and spectacle. Yet, their impact is undeniable, shaping the very essence of the sport and its evolution. As we honor his memory, let us recognize Ed Lewis’s dedication to preserving the integrity of wrestling, his innovative spirit, and his enduring legacy that continues to influence the wrestlers of every generation.