Jerry Lawler Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 21, 2024
Jerry Lawler Then
Jerry Lawler, born on November 29, 1949, in Memphis, Tennessee, experienced a childhood marked by geographical and emotional shifts.
As a young boy, Lawler’s family relocated to Ohio due to his father’s job at a Ford Motor Company assembly plant in Lorain.
This move took Jerry from his birthplace to the small town of Amherst, near Cleveland, where he spent his formative years from ages 7 to 15.
Despite being far from his Memphis roots, Jerry developed a deep connection to Ohio and its sports culture during this time.
He became a fervent supporter of the Cleveland Indians, the Cleveland Browns, and the Cleveland Cavaliers, a testament to his growing attachment to the region.
Though his time in Ohio was significant, Lawler’s connection to Memphis remained strong.
The city, with its rich cultural and historical roots, was a crucial part of his identity.
Lawler’s life took a somber turn when his father passed away when he was just 19, a loss that undoubtedly had a profound impact on him.
Despite this, Lawler’s experiences in both Ohio and Memphis helped shape his future endeavors, both in the realm of professional wrestling and in his personal life, blending his love for his hometown with the new loyalties he developed in Ohio.
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Jerry Lawler Wrestling Career
Jerry Lawler’s wrestling career took off in 1977 with the Continental Wrestling Association (CWA), where he established himself as a formidable wrestler over the next 12 years.
His tenure with the CWA was marked by his dynamic presence and skill, which earned him significant recognition in the wrestling world.
During the 1980s, Lawler also competed with the American Wrestling Association (AWA) in two separate stints, showcasing his versatility and ability to adapt to different wrestling styles and promotions.
As the 1980s drew to a close, Lawler transitioned to the United States Wrestling Association (USWA), where he continued to make waves in the wrestling scene until 1997.
His career also saw him join the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1992, where he became known for memorable feuds with prominent wrestlers such as Bret Hart and Doink the Clown.
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These rivalries were pivotal in cementing Lawler’s reputation as a compelling performer in the wrestling world.
By the late 1990s, Lawler began to shift from in-ring competition to focusing more on commentating, a transition that marked a new phase in his career.
He left the WWF in 2001 and briefly wrestled on the independent circuit before returning to WWE.
In WWE, he continued to wrestle but also dedicated significant time to commentating, eventually moving to a full-time role as a commentator.
One of Lawler’s most notable moments came from his high-profile feud with comedian Andy Kaufman in 1982.
Kaufman, known for his unconventional comedy act where he wrestled women and claimed to be the inter-gender wrestling champion, took his act too seriously and challenged Lawler.
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Their confrontation escalated dramatically when Lawler executed his signature ‘piledriver’ move on Kaufman, leading to Kaufman’s hospitalization.
The feud gained further notoriety with an explosive appearance on “Late Night with David Letterman,” where Kaufman’s enraged outburst and obscene tirade resulted in NBC threatening him.
This feud not only captured national attention but also solidified Lawler’s place in wrestling history as a key figure in the sport’s entertainment aspect.
Jerry Lawler Wrestling Competition
- Continental Wrestling Association (CWA): 1977–1989
- American Wrestling Association (AWA): Two separate stints in the 1980s
- United States Wrestling Association (USWA): Late 1980s–1997
- World Wrestling Federation (WWF): 1992–2001
- Independent Circuit: Post-WWF departure
- World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE): 2001–present
Jerry Lawler Health Issues
In 2012, Jerry Lawler experienced a critical health crisis that profoundly impacted both his personal life and his professional career.
After performing at a “Raw” event, where he shared the stage with wrestlers like Randy Orton, CM Punk, and Dolph Ziggler, Lawler suffered a severe heart attack.
While seated at the announcers’ table, he collapsed, prompting a swift response from his colleagues and the WWE medical team.
Michael Cole, who was at the commentary desk with Lawler, was left to commentate alone as the WWE staff worked urgently to provide medical assistance.
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Lawler’s situation was dire; he was clinically dead for nearly 30 minutes before receiving CPR and regaining independent breathing.
This extended period without a heartbeat raised concerns about potential brain damage.
Fortunately, doctors were able to confirm that Lawler showed no signs of cognitive impairment despite the severity of his condition.
An investigation into the cause of his heart attack revealed that it was due to an “unexplained cardiac arrest,” rather than a blockage in the arteries.
Following this traumatic episode, Lawler underwent an angioplasty to enhance blood flow to his heart.
His recovery was gradual, but he eventually received medical clearance to return to WWE, resuming his role in the wrestling world.
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This incident not only highlighted the precarious nature of the high-intensity lifestyle associated with professional wrestling but also underscored Lawler’s resilience and the support system within the WWE.
Jerry Lawler’s Wife and Children
Jerry Lawler’s personal life has been marked by several significant relationships and family events.
He was married three times, with his first marriage being to Kay, with whom he had two sons.
His eldest son, Brian, followed in his footsteps into professional wrestling, performing under the names “Brian Christopher” and “Grandmaster Sexay” in WWF/E.
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Tragically, Brian’s life ended when he died by suicide on July 29, 2018, a loss that deeply impacted Lawler and his family.
His other son, Kevin, also pursued a career in wrestling, working both as a referee and a wrestler under the names “Kevin Christian” and “Freddie Gilbert,” the latter being a nod to his storyline role as the brother of Eddie Gilbert.
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Following his divorce from Kay, Lawler married Paula on February 14, 1982.
Their marriage lasted until October 2, 1991. Lawler’s third marriage was to Stacy “The Kat” Carter, whom he met at a charity softball game in Memphis, Tennessee, on July 23, 1989.
They married in September 2000. Carter, known for her role as a valet and occasional in-ring performer, was released by the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in mid-February 2001.
Lawler’s departure from the WWF soon followed as he left the company in protest of Carter’s release.
The couple later separated just before Lawler rejoined the WWF in November 2001. Their marriage officially ended with a divorce finalized on October 15, 2003.
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Jerry Lawler Now
As of now, Jerry Lawler, aged 74, continues to be a prominent figure in the world of professional wrestling.
Known widely as Jerry “The King” Lawler, he currently holds a Legends contract with WWE, a testament to his enduring legacy and impact on the sport.
Despite his age, Lawler remains actively engaged in the wrestling world, demonstrating his passion and commitment to the industry.
In addition to his role with WWE, Lawler actively competes in various independent wrestling promotions.
He is involved with Northeast Wrestling in Connecticut, where he continues to showcase his wrestling skills and entertain fans.
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Lawler also participates in USA Championship Wrestling in Tennessee and Championship Wrestling Arkansas, further solidifying his presence in regional wrestling circuits.
His ongoing involvement in these promotions highlights his dedication to the sport and his ability to connect with audiences across different venues.
Lawler’s continued activity in wrestling not only underscores his lasting appeal but also reflects his enduring love for the sport.
His work as a commentator and wrestler showcases his versatility and contributions to professional wrestling, ensuring that his legacy continues to thrive in the modern wrestling landscape.
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Jerry Lawler’s Net Worth
Jerry Lawler, an American semi-retired professional wrestler and WWE commentator, boasts a net worth of $1.5 million.
This substantial figure reflects his successful career spanning several decades in wrestling and broadcasting, underscoring his financial stability and enduring influence in the sport.
Lawler’s earnings are attributed to his roles as a performer, and commentator, and his ongoing involvement in various wrestling promotions, showcasing the significant impact he has made both inside and outside the ring.
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FAQs
Yes, Jerry Lawler is still signed to WWE under a Legends contract.
In 2012, Lawler suffered a heart attack during a WWE event but recovered after medical intervention.
Lawler did not officially retire from WWE; he took a break after his 2012 health scare but returned to WWE later that year.
Yes, he is currently signed to WWE under a Legends contract.
Lawler remains active in wrestling, participating in independent promotions and occasionally working as a commentator.
No, Lawler has not retired; he continues to wrestle and commentate in various promotions.
Yes, Lawler still works as a commentator for WWE, though he primarily focuses on special events and occasional appearances.
After his 2012 heart attack, Lawler recovered well and continues to be active in wrestling and commentary.