Baron Von Raschke Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / September 1, 2024
Baron Von Raschke Then
Baron Von Raschke, born on July 30, 1940, in Omaha, Nebraska, is a notable figure in professional wrestling with a distinguished background in both amateur wrestling and football.
During his college years, Raschke made significant contributions to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Cornhuskers, where he was a three-year letterman on the wrestling team from 1960 to 1962.
His performance on the mat earned him recognition in the university’s wrestling media guide under his real name, Jim Raschke.
In addition to his wrestling achievements, Raschke played football for the Cornhuskers as a left tackle during the 1959 and 1960 seasons.
His athletic prowess was evident both on the wrestling mat and the football field, showcasing his versatility and dedication to sports.
Following his collegiate career, Raschke served in the United States Army, where he continued to hone his discipline and work ethic.
After completing his military service, Raschke transitioned to professional wrestling, where he would gain fame under the ring name Baron Von Raschke.
His background in wrestling and football provided him with a strong foundation for his wrestling career, which became marked by his distinctive persona and formidable presence in the ring.
Raschke’s diverse athletic background and subsequent success in professional wrestling have cemented his legacy in the world of sports entertainment.
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Baron Von Raschke Wrestling Career
Baron Von Raschke began his professional wrestling career in 1966 with the American Wrestling Association (AWA) as a referee before transitioning into the ring as a wrestler.
Early in his career, Raschke capitalized on his local amateur wrestling fame, initially competing under his real name.
However, he soon adopted the persona of Baron von Raschke, portraying a German character with a distinctive ring style.
His gimmick included performing a goose step and utilizing his signature finishing move, the “brain claw,” a gripping maneuver that became one of his trademarks.
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Initially, he used a finishing maneuver called the “Prussian sleeper,” a variation of the traditional sleeper hold, with the mantra, “I am ordered to win! I must win! And I will win!”
During the 1970s and early 1980s, Von Raschke enjoyed significant success across multiple wrestling territories.
He captured numerous singles and tag team titles in various NWA and AWA territories and also made a notable appearance in the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF).
His claw hold was so feared that it was censored on WWWF television with a red X due to its perceived violence.
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A highlight of his WWWF career came in March 1977 when he challenged WWWF World Heavyweight Champion Bruno Sammartino at Madison Square Garden.
Although he lost by disqualification, this match was a pivotal moment in his career.
He faced Sammartino again in a rematch a month later, which marked Sammartino’s final successful title defense before losing the belt to Superstar Billy Graham.
In 1978, Von Raschke made history as the first NWA Television Champion after the Mid-Atlantic Television title was renamed.
His achievements continued into 1984 when he and The Crusher won the AWA World Tag Team Championship, though they lost the titles to The Road Warriors later that year.
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Raschke’s career saw another notable phase in 1986 with the NWA’s Jim Crockett Promotions, where he reconnected with former tag partner Paul Jones, who had transitioned to a managerial role.
Von Raschke was part of Paul Jones’ Army and filled in for the injured Krusher Khruschev, competing for the NWA World Six-Man Tag Team Championship alongside Ivan and Nikita Koloff.
He later turned “face” against Jones and teamed with Hector Guerrero to defeat the Barbarian and Pez Whatley at Starrcade 1986.
His run with the NWA concluded after teaming with Wahoo McDaniel at the 1987 Crockett Cup.
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In 1988, Raschke briefly joined the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) as a manager for The Powers of Pain, The Barbarian, and The Warlord, under the moniker “The Baron.” His stint was short-lived, and he was released shortly after.
Raschke returned to the AWA later that year, where he feuded with Soldat Ustinov and Teijho Khan and captained “Baron’s Blitzers” during the Team Challenge Series.
After the AWA’s closure, Raschke continued to wrestle on the independent circuit in Minnesota until his retirement in 1995.
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Raschke made a notable return in 1993 for WCW’s inaugural Slamboree: A Legend’s Reunion, where he teamed with Ivan Koloff in a loss to Thunderbolt Patterson and Brad Armstrong.
His final match occurred on February 10, 1996, where he defeated David Lynch at Superstars of Wrestling in Princeton, West Virginia.
In November 2021, Raschke appeared with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) at the Full Gear pay-per-view, where he was in the crowd for the 10-man street fight between The Inner Circle and American Top Team, showcasing his enduring presence in the wrestling world by applying his iconic Iron Claw on Ethan Page.
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Baron Von Raschke Wrestling Competition
- American Wrestling Association (AWA)
- National Wrestling Alliance (NWA)
- World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF)
- World Wrestling Federation (WWF)
- Jim Crockett Promotions (NWA)
- Superstars of Wrestling (Independent Promotion)
- All Elite Wrestling (AEW)
Baron Von Raschke Now
Baron Von Raschke, born James Donald Raschke, is currently 84 years old and remains a revered figure in the world of professional wrestling.
Although he officially retired from full-time wrestling in 1995, Raschke has never fully stepped away from the spotlight.
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His wrestling persona, known for its formidable “Claw” hold, continues to captivate fans, and Raschke frequently makes appearances at wrestling events and conventions across the country.
In his post-wrestling life, Raschke has diversified his activities. He became a substitute teacher, sharing his knowledge and experiences with students.
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Additionally, he worked at the Minnesota Zoo, contributing to his community in a different capacity.
Raschke and his wife also operated a gift shop near the Mississippi headwaters, a venture that allowed them to engage with locals and tourists alike.
Despite his retirement from active competition, Raschke’s legacy in wrestling endures.
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His iconic character and signature moves, particularly the “Claw,” remain celebrated in wrestling circles, and he continues to be a beloved figure among fans of the sport.
His continued involvement in wrestling events and his varied post-wrestling endeavors reflect his enduring passion and connection to the world of professional wrestling.
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FAQs
Baron von Raschke, whose real name is James Donald Raschke, retired from full-time professional wrestling in 1995.
Post-retirement, he worked as a substitute teacher, at the Minnesota Zoo, and ran a gift shop with his wife. He continues to make appearances at wrestling events.
Baron von Raschke was a prominent figure in professional wrestling, known for his powerful “Claw” hold and notable achievements across multiple wrestling territories, including the AWA and NWA.
The wrestler known for the “Claw” move was Baron von Raschke. His signature finishing maneuver, the “Claw,” became one of his defining features in the ring.
Baron von Raschke does not have a dedicated movie, but he appears in various wrestling documentaries and events. Check wrestling-themed streaming platforms or DVDs for appearances.
Baron von Raschke, now 84 years old, resides in the United States and continues to make appearances at wrestling events while engaging in various activities such as teaching and running a gift shop.
The Claw wrestler is Baron von Raschke, known for his signature finishing move, the “Claw,” which he used to secure victories in his wrestling career.