Bob Backlund Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 22, 2024
Bob Backlund Then
Bob Backlund, born on August 14, 1949, in Princeton, Minnesota, is a notable figure in amateur wrestling.
He began his journey at Princeton High School, where he distinguished himself as a talented wrestler, reaching the state finals. This early success laid a strong foundation for his future achievements.
During his time at Waldorf College in Forest City, Iowa, Backlund’s athletic prowess became evident.
As a freshman, he earned All-American honors in both football and wrestling.
In wrestling, he competed in the 191-pound weight class, securing a third-place finish. This dual-sport success highlighted his versatility and commitment to athletic excellence.
Backlund’s focus shifted predominantly to wrestling during his sophomore year, where he continued to shine.
He achieved All-American status once more, this time in the 190-pound weight class, and finished as the national runner-up.
His dedication and skill were further showcased through these remarkable accomplishments.
Continuing his wrestling career at North Dakota State University, Backlund reached new heights.
In 1971, he won the NCAA Division II Championship in the 190-pound weight class, demonstrating his exceptional talent and hard work.
The following year, he moved up to the heavyweight class and competed at the NCAA Division II Nationals, where he finished fifth.
Backlund’s success at both weight classes underscored his adaptability and competitive spirit.
Backlund graduated from North Dakota State University with a degree in physical education, rounding out his impressive amateur wrestling career with a strong academic background.
His achievements in wrestling, coupled with his educational qualifications, highlight his dedication to both athletics and academics.
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Bob Backlund Wrestling Career
Bob Backlund, trained by the legendary Eddie Sharkey, made his professional wrestling debut with the American Wrestling Association (AWA) in 1973.
His clean-cut appearance and technical prowess quickly earned him a strong fan following.
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After his time with the AWA, Backlund traversed the wrestling world, competing in various territories including the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF).
In 1974, Backlund won the NWA Western States Heavyweight Championship from Terry Funk, holding it briefly before losing it to Karl Von Steiger.
His career continued to rise as he captured the NWA Georgia Tag Team Championship with Jerry Brisco and the NWA Florida Tag Team Championship with Steve Keirn.
He also claimed the NWA Missouri Heavyweight Championship by defeating Harley Race.
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Backlund’s big break came in late 1976 when he joined Vincent J. McMahon’s World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF).
Managed by Arnold Skaaland, Backlund soon won the WWWF Heavyweight Championship from Superstar Billy Graham on February 20, 1978.
His reign was marked by memorable defenses against prominent wrestlers including Antonio Inoki, Nick Bockwinkel, and Ric Flair.
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Throughout his tenure as champion, Backlund faced numerous challengers and defended his title against various world champions.
However, his title reign was eventually interrupted by a controversial loss to the Iron Sheik on December 26, 1983, following a kayfabe arm injury. Hogan then became the new WWF World Heavyweight Champion.
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Backlund’s career continued with stints in Pro Wrestling USA and UWF before making a surprising return to WWF in 1992.
His return was marked by a series of mid-card matches and a notable performance in the 1993 Royal Rumble, where he lasted over an hour.
His second WWF Championship reign came in late 1994 but was short-lived, as he lost the title to Diesel just three days later.
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Following his title loss, Backlund’s prominence in WWF diminished, leading to a final run in 1995 where he faced various opponents including Bret Hart.
His storyline involving a presidential campaign and subsequent mid-card appearances characterized the later years of his WWF career. Backlund’s last match with the company was in May 1996.
Backlund’s contributions to professional wrestling are celebrated for his technical skill, dedication, and the enduring impact he made in various wrestling promotions.
His legacy is marked by his impressive championship reigns and memorable rivalries throughout his career.
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Bob Backlund Wrestling Competition
- American Wrestling Association (AWA)
- Debuted in 1973
- National Wrestling Alliance (NWA)
- NWA Western States Heavyweight Championship (defeated Terry Funk in 1974)
- NWA Georgia Tag Team Championship (with Jerry Brisco)
- NWA Florida Tag Team Championship (with Steve Keirn)
- NWA Missouri Heavyweight Championship (defeated Harley Race in 1976)
- World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF)/World Wrestling Federation (WWF)/World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE)
- WWWF Heavyweight Championship (defeated Superstar Billy Graham in 1978)
- WWF Tag Team Championship (with Pedro Morales in 1980)
- 1980 MSG Tag Team League Tournament (with Antonio Inoki)
- WWF Heavyweight Championship (second reign, defeated Bret Hart in 1994)
- Pro Wrestling USA
- Challenged AWA World Heavyweight Champion Rick Martel
- Universal Wrestling Federation (UWF)
- Defeated Ivan Koloff in 1991
- Newborn UWF and UWF International (Japan)
- Matches with Nobuhiko Takada (1988–1989)
Bob Backlund Now
Bob Backlund, currently 75 years old, remains a prominent figure in the wrestling world, even in retirement.
Known for his time in the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF), which later became the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and now WWE, Backlund’s legacy is well-established.
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He first gained fame during the late 1970s and early 1980s when he held the WWWF/WWF Championship twice, demonstrating his wrestling prowess and solidifying his place in professional wrestling history.
After his initial run with the WWWF/WWF, Backlund took a break from wrestling but made notable returns in the 1990s, continuing to engage with fans and the wrestling community.
His second reign as WWF Champion in 1994 highlighted his enduring appeal and skill.
Known for his clean-cut image and technical wrestling style, Backlund was a key figure in the evolution of professional wrestling during his active years.
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In his retirement, Backlund has maintained a presence in the wrestling world through appearances at conventions, autograph signings, and occasional wrestling-related events.
His contributions to the sport have been recognized through various honors and he remains respected for his dedication and impact on wrestling.
Despite stepping away from the ring, Bob Backlund’s influence endures, reflecting his lasting legacy in the professional wrestling landscape.
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Bob Backlund’s Net Worth
Bob Backlund, a renowned professional wrestler with a net worth of $2 million, has built his fortune through a distinguished career in the wrestling industry, marked by his two reigns as WWF Champion and ongoing engagements in wrestling-related events.
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FAQs
Bob Backlund, a retired professional wrestler, continues to be active in the wrestling community, making appearances and participating in events.
Bob Backlund held the WWF World Heavyweight Championship for over 2,135 days during his first reign from 1978 to 1983, and a brief second reign in 1994.
Yes, Bob Backlund ran as a Republican candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives in 2000.
Yes, Bob Backlund was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2013.
Bob Backlund’s height is approximately 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm).
Bruno Sammartino holds the record for the longest WWE Championship reign, lasting 2,803 days from 1963 to 1971.