Don Kernodle Then and Now

Don Kernodle Then

Don Kernodle was born on May 2, 1950, in Burlington, North Carolina. From a young age, Kernodle showed a strong inclination towards physical sports and competition. 

He excelled in amateur wrestling during his college years at Elon College, where he earned four varsity letters in the sport. 

Additionally, Kernodle was a notable arm wrestler, clinching the national arm wrestling championship twice. 

His achievements in these sports provided a solid foundation for his future career in professional wrestling, showcasing his athleticism and competitive spirit.

Don Kernodle Wrestling Career

Kernodle’s professional wrestling career began in 1973 with the National Wrestling Alliance’s Jim Crockett Promotions.

His initial foray into wrestling came after a “shoot” challenge match against Bob Roop, which, despite a loss, caught the attention of wrestling veterans Ole Anderson and Gene Anderson. 

Impressed by his skills, they offered to train him, leading to the development of his wrestling career.

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Kernodle’s early wrestling persona, Pvt. Kernodle was part of Sgt. Slaughter’s “Cobra Corps,” where he teamed with Slaughter and Pvt. Jim Nelson. 

The team achieved significant success, including winning the NWA Mid-Atlantic Tag Team Championship in 1982. 

Kernodle later partnered with Sgt. Slaughter captured the NWA World Tag Team Championship in late 1982 and early 1983. 

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However, they lost the titles in a steel cage match to Rick Steamboat and Jay Youngblood in March 1983.

Kernodle’s career continued to flourish as he made appearances in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1983. 

He was featured in various matches, often substituting for Afa Anoa’i in main event bouts. 

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After leaving the WWF, Kernodle joined forces with Bob Orton, Jr. and was managed by Gary Hart, eventually forming a notorious tag team with Ivan Koloff. 

Together, they won the NWA World Tag Team Title, although their alliance was short-lived due to conflicts with Koloff’s “nephew,” Nikita Koloff.

Kernodle’s wrestling career took him through various independent promotions in the Carolinas after 1986. 

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Beyond wrestling, he transitioned into law enforcement, serving as a Sergeant for Immigration Customs Enforcement and later as a deputy sheriff with the Alamance County sheriff’s office. 

Despite retiring from major wrestling promotions, Kernodle occasionally returned to the ring for special appearances with CWF Mid-Atlantic alongside his brother.

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Don Kernodle Wrestling Competition

• National Wrestling Alliance (NWA)
  • Jim Crockett Promotions (1973-1983)
  • NWA Mid-Atlantic Tag Team Championship (with Pvt. Jim Nelson, 1982)
  • NWA World Tag Team Championship (with Sgt. Slaughter, late 1982 – early 1983)
  • NWA Canadian Television Championship (defeated Jay Youngblood, August 8, 1982)
  • NWA World Tag Team Championship (with Ivan Koloff, 1984)
• World Wrestling Federation (WWF)
• (1983-1984)
  • Competed against Jeff Craney, Jack Carson, Bill Dixon, Steve King, Tony Colon
  • Competed against Tito Santana, Rocky Johnson, The Invaders
• Independent Promotions
  • CWF Mid-Atlantic (2002 – present)
  • Various regional promotions in the Carolinas
• Other Notable Appearances
  • Co-promoted cards at Maple Leaf Gardens (1982-1984)
  • Starrcade ’85: The Gathering (assisted Rock ‘n’ Roll Express in winning Tag Team Title)

Don Kernodle Now

Don Kernodle, a celebrated figure in the world of professional wrestling, passed away on May 17, 2021, at the age of 71. 

His death was a significant loss to the wrestling community, where he was remembered for his contributions both in the ring and in various promotional events. 

Prior to his death, Kernodle had faced several health challenges, which impacted his well-being. 

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Tragically, it was later revealed that Kernodle died by suicide following a visit to the doctor.

His passing cast a somber light on the struggles that many wrestlers face behind the scenes, including mental health issues and personal challenges. 

Kernodle’s legacy, however, remains in his accomplishments and contributions to the sport. 

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He is remembered fondly by fans and peers for his achievements in wrestling, including his notable tag team championships and his role in major wrestling promotions. 

His life and career continue to be a point of reflection on the importance of mental health awareness and support within the wrestling community.

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