Don Muraco Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 22, 2024
Don Muraco Then
Don Muraco, born on September 10, 1949, in Hawaii, United States, has a deep Native Hawaiian heritage.
Raised in Hawaii, Muraco excelled in athletics from a young age. In 1967, he earned recognition as a Hawaii state amateur wrestling champion while attending Punahou School, showcasing his wrestling talent early on.
Despite initial aspirations of pursuing a career in football, Muraco chose the path of professional wrestling, influenced by his wrestling achievements and passion for the sport.
Don Muraco Wrestling Career
Muraco’s professional wrestling career began with training across various wrestling territories in North America, including Vancouver, Portland, Florida, and Los Angeles.
His first major break came with Verne Gagne’s American Wrestling Association (AWA), where he wrestled as a face, teaming with notable wrestlers such as Jimmy Snuka.
Muraco’s early career saw him engaging in high-profile matches and feuds, including a memorable bout against Jack Brisco in Championship Wrestling from Florida, which established him as a rising star.
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Throughout the 1970s, Muraco continued to build his reputation by winning titles in various territories, including the NWA Americas Heavyweight Championship and the NWA World Tag Team Championship in San Francisco.
His wrestling style evolved as he embraced the role of a heel, known for his arrogant demeanor and memorable antics, such as eating a submarine sandwich during matches.
Muraco’s career reached new heights with his debut in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1981, where he captured the WWF Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship.
His feuds with prominent wrestlers like Pedro Morales, Jimmy Snuka, and Bob Backlund became some of the most memorable storylines in WWF history.
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He further solidified his legacy by winning the first King of the Ring tournament in 1987 and engaging in high-profile matches against Hulk Hogan.
After leaving WWF, Muraco continued to wrestle in various promotions, including Stampede Wrestling, All Japan Pro Wrestling, and the Universal Wrestling Federation (UWF).
His career extended into the early 1990s with stints in Eastern Championship Wrestling (ECW), where he won the ECW Heavyweight Championship multiple times.
Muraco also competed internationally, making appearances in promotions such as Wrestle Association-R in Japan.
Throughout his career, Don Muraco was known for his versatility, adapting to various wrestling styles and territories, and leaving a lasting impact on the wrestling world.
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Don Muraco Wrestling Competition
- American Wrestling Association (AWA)
- Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF)
- NWA San Francisco
- NWA Polynesian
- New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW)
- Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling (MACW)
- Georgia Championship Wrestling (GCW)
- World Wrestling Federation (WWF)
- Universal Wrestling Federation (UWF)
- Stampede Wrestling
- All Japan Pro Wrestling (AJPW)
- Eastern Championship Wrestling (ECW)
- Wrestle Association-R (WAR)
- All-Star Wrestling Federation
Don Muraco Retirement
After retiring from professional wrestling in 1995, Don Muraco returned to his roots in Hawaii, where he continued to stay connected to the wrestling world and pursued other ventures.
In 2003, Muraco, alongside local TV producer Linda Bade, co-founded Hawai’i Championship Wrestling (HCW).
This promotion, which ran until 2008, aimed to promote and develop local wrestling talent.
Muraco served as the storyline commissioner of HCW until 2006, playing a significant role in the promotion’s early success and helping to shape its direction.
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During this time, he also worked as a longshoreman, balancing his professional wrestling activities with a more traditional job.
Muraco made a brief return to wrestling on May 22, 1998, when he participated in a one-night event for the Northern Wrestling States Wrestler Alliance.
In this match, he faced The Honky Tonk Man, marking a nostalgic return to the ring.
Additionally, Muraco reappeared in Hawaii on January 9, 1999, where he defeated the Kodiak Bear at an event hosted by the Hawaiian Islands Wrestling Federation.
In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Muraco was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2004.
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The induction ceremony was highlighted by an emotional moment as Mick Foley, a fan inspired by Muraco’s legendary 1983 steel cage match against Jimmy Snuka, presented the honor.
This match at Madison Square Garden had a profound impact on many future wrestlers, including Foley, Tommy Dreamer, and the Dudley Boyz.
Muraco continued to make appearances in the wrestling world, including managing his son Joe in WXW.
On August 27, 2005, he teamed up with Joe to defeat the father-and-son duo Bob and Brad Armstrong at WrestleReunion 2, showcasing his continued involvement and passion for the sport.
Additionally, in 2007, Muraco had the honor of inducting his former manager, Mr. Fuji, into the WWE Hall of Fame, further cementing his legacy within the wrestling community.
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Don Muraco’s Wife and Children
As of 2019, Don Muraco resides in Hawaii with his wife, Sharon. After retiring from the wrestling ring, Muraco chose to return to his home state, where he has settled into a more tranquil lifestyle.
His relocation to Hawaii reflects his deep connection to the place where he began his journey and where he has long been a prominent figure in the local community.
Muraco’s family life has been an important part of his post-wrestling years.
He and Sharon enjoy a peaceful life together in Hawaii, where they have remained actively involved in their community.
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Their family also includes Muraco’s children, one of whom, Joe Muraco, has followed in his father’s footsteps into the world of professional wrestling.
Joe’s career echoes his father’s legacy, continuing the family tradition in the sport.
This family dynamic underscores the significance of wrestling in Muraco’s life and how it has influenced the next generation.
His son’s career is a testament to Don Muraco’s lasting impact on professional wrestling, both as a legendary performer and as a mentor to his family.
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Don Muraco Now
As of now, Don Muraco is 74 years old and remains a respected figure in the world of professional wrestling.
Though he retired from active competition in 1995, his legacy endures through his notable achievements and contributions to the sport.
Muraco is best remembered for his impactful run with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) from 1981 to 1988, a period during which he made a significant mark on the wrestling landscape.
During his time with the WWF, Muraco established himself as a formidable competitor.
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He captured the WWF Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship twice, first in June 1981 and then again in January 1983.
His reigns as Intercontinental Champion were marked by intense rivalries and memorable feuds, particularly with wrestlers like Pedro Morales and Jimmy Snuka.
Muraco’s ability to captivate audiences with his charismatic and sometimes villainous persona solidified his place as one of the top heels of his era.
In addition to his championship successes, Muraco achieved another milestone in 1985 by becoming the inaugural King of the Ring tournament winner.
This victory further cemented his status as a prominent wrestler and showcased his versatility and skill in the ring.
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The King of the Ring win was a significant accomplishment that highlighted his ability to excel in various aspects of wrestling.
Today, although retired from active wrestling, Muraco enjoys a quieter life in Hawaii with his wife, Sharon.
He remains a revered figure among wrestling enthusiasts and is frequently celebrated for his contributions to the sport.
His influence continues to be felt through the legacy he has built, both in his wrestling career and through the continued success of his son, Joe Muraco, who has followed in his footsteps.
FAQs
As of 2019, Don Muraco resides in Hawaii with his wife, Sharon. Although he retired from professional wrestling in 1995, he remains a respected figure in the wrestling community.
Muraco has been involved in occasional wrestling-related activities, such as managing his son Joe’s wrestling career and participating in WWE Hall of Fame events.
Don Muraco left the WWF in August 1984 due to a combination of factors, including a series of unsuccessful matches and a desire to explore other wrestling opportunities. He took a hiatus from the WWF before returning briefly in 1985.
Don Muraco’s primary finishing move was the piledriver. This maneuver became one of his signature moves and was a key part of his wrestling persona.
Don Muraco retired from active professional wrestling in 1995. The decision was influenced by various factors, including the physical demands of the sport and a desire to focus on other aspects of his life and career.
During his time with the WWF, Don Muraco was managed by several notable figures, including The Grand Wizard and later Captain Lou Albano.
Both managers played significant roles in his wrestling persona and career.