Retro Wednesday: Tribute To The Von Erich Brothers
In the early 1980s, Kerry Von Erich was one of the most popular stars of wrestling. Known as the "Modern Day Warrior," Von Erich became one of the top wrestlers of his father's World Class Championship Wrestling promotion, with an overwhelming level of fan support. Feuds with both Harley Race and Ric Flair catapulted him to a main event player throughout the National Wrestling Alliance.
His brother, David, also became a star throughout the NWA in the early 80s, feuding with Race and Flair as well. Many believe that David was en route to defeating Flair for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship, even coming close to winning the title via Claw before taking a disqualification victory.
David Von Erich vs. Ric Flair by Old-School-Wrestling
Unfortunately, David died in February of 1984, never being able to capture the world title.
A few months later, Fritz Von Erich created the "David Von Erich Memorial Parade of Champions," giving homage to his son. At the event, Kerry was able to defeat Flair, reaching his pinnacle moment by winning the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. Although he only held the belt for two weeks, it is still an achievement that can never be erased.
Von Erich garnered moderate success in the WWE, winning the Intercontinental Championship from "Mr. Perfect" Curt Hennig in 1990. However, this was the biggest achievement during his tenure, and he eventually become relegated as a jobber before his release in 1992.
Just one year later, after competing in both the USWA and GWF, Kerry Von Erich committed suicide at the age of 33.
Both David and Kerry were both incredibly popular athletes. Having the Texas-bred appreciation for the business, the Von Erich brothers seemed destined to be two of the most popular wrestlers in the history of the business. Sadly, neither of them achieved what was widely expected of them, due to their untimely deaths.
In honor of the Von Erich family, both brothers?including other brothers Chris, Mike and Kevin, along with their father Fritz?were inducted in the 2009 WWE Hall of Fame.
One of the greatest wrestling families ever, and two brothers who should have been multi-time world champions. Classic.
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Author's Link: Which of these stars should be in the WWE Hall of Fame?