Al Perez Then and Now

By / August 28, 2024

Al Perez Then

Al Perez, born on July 23, 1960, in Florida, began his athletic journey as an amateur wrestler in high school. 

Growing up in Florida, he quickly distinguished himself as one of the top high school wrestlers in the state. 

This early success in amateur wrestling laid a strong foundation for his transition into professional wrestling. 

His background in amateur wrestling equipped him with the technical skills and discipline needed to excel in the wrestling world.

al perez wrestler
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Al Perez Wrestling Career

Perez launched his professional wrestling career in 1982, starting in Southwest Championship Wrestling in Texas. 

Early in his career, he formed a tag team with Joe Savoldi known as the “New York Rockers” in the International Championship Wrestling (ICW) promotion. 

His career took a significant turn when he joined the World Wrestling Council (WWC) in Puerto Rico, where he continued teaming with Savoldi and developed a notable feud with Invader I.

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In August 1985, Perez achieved a major milestone by winning the Mid-South Tag Team Championship with “Wildcat” Wendell Cooley, defeating “Dr. Death” Steve Williams and Bruiser Bob Sweetan. 

This victory marked a significant point in his career, showcasing his ability to succeed on a larger stage.

Perez gained further prominence in 1987 when he joined World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW) as “The Latin Heartthrob.” 

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Managed by Gary Hart, Perez became a top heel, engaging in high-profile feuds with prominent wrestlers like Kevin Von Erich, Kerry Von Erich, and Dingo Warrior. 

He won the WCWA World Heavyweight Championship and had a memorable steel cage match against Kerry Von Erich on December 25, 1987.

Following his time in WCCW, Perez moved to Jim Crockett Promotions in 1988, where he teamed with Larry Zbyszko and feuded with Nikita Koloff and Dusty Rhodes. 

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His career continued to evolve with a stint in Dusty Rhodes’ Professional Wrestling Federation (PWF) in Florida, where he won the PWF Florida Heavyweight Title.

In October 1989, Perez debuted in the WWF, where he initially had a successful run but eventually faced defeats, including a notable loss to Boris Zhukov. 

His time in WWF was marked by his appearances primarily on the undercard and house shows.

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In September 1990, Perez briefly adopted the persona of The Black Scorpion in a match against Sting, but his involvement with the character was short-lived. 

Perez went on to wrestle in various promotions, including a notable run in the Global Wrestling Federation (GWF) and All Japan Wrestling. 

He competed in independent promotions throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, culminating in his retirement from professional wrestling in 2002.

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Al Perez Wrestling Competition

  • Southwest Championship Wrestling (SCW)
  • International Championship Wrestling (ICW)
  • World Wrestling Council (WWC)
  • Mid-South Wrestling
  • World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW)
  • Jim Crockett Promotions
  • Professional Wrestling Federation (PWF)
  • World Wrestling Federation (WWF)
  • National Wrestling Alliance (NWA)
  • Global Wrestling Federation (GWF)
  • All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW)
  • Liberty All-Star Wrestling (LAW)

Al Perez Now

al perez now
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At 64 years old, Al Perez is a retired American professional wrestler who left a notable mark on the wrestling world during his two-decade career. Born on July 23, 1960, Perez enjoyed significant success throughout his wrestling journey, capturing 16 titles across various promotions. 

His most prominent achievement was winning the World Class Wrestling Association (WCWA) World Heavyweight Championship, a testament to his skills and popularity in the ring.

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Since retiring from professional wrestling in 2002, Perez has largely stayed out of the public eye, with his focus shifting away from the spotlight of wrestling. 

His legacy, however, remains well-regarded among wrestling fans and historians. 

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His career is remembered for its diversity, spanning numerous wrestling promotions and showcasing his versatility and talent. 

Despite his departure from the ring, Perez’s contributions to the sport continue to be appreciated by those who followed his career and witnessed his impact on the wrestling industry.

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