Koko B. Ware Then and Now

Koko B. Ware Then

Koko B. Ware, born James Ware on June 20, 1958, in Union City, Tennessee, began his wrestling journey in the Mid-South and Georgia territories. 

Growing up in a region with a rich wrestling tradition, Ware was exposed to the sport from a young age. 

His initial years in wrestling were spent learning the trade and gaining experience in various National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) territories, including Jerry Jarrett’s Continental Wrestling Association (CWA) and Nick Gulas’ territory. 

These early years were marked by struggles as Ware sought to make a name for himself and build his skills within the industry.

Koko B. Ware Wrestling Career

Ware’s career began to gain traction in late 1980 when he participated in a significant battle royal to determine the first Mid-American Television Champion. 

Despite initial setbacks, including a brief and tumultuous run with the title, Ware’s fortunes improved when he adopted the ring name “Sweet Brown Sugar” and aligned with manager Jimmy Hart. 

This change led to success as a tag team competitor, particularly alongside Steve Keirn and Bobby Eaton, winning multiple championships.

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In 1983, Ware embraced a new persona as “Stagger Lee,” a masked character that brought him considerable popularity. 

He continued to evolve, forming the tag team “The Pretty Young Things” with Norvell Austin, and they gained further recognition with their high-flying style and distinctive attire. 

Despite various changes in promotions and a brief stint with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), where he became well-known as “Koko B. Ware” and popularized his “Birdman” persona, Ware continued to perform and contribute to the wrestling world.

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His career saw him return to the independent circuit and make occasional appearances in major promotions. 

Ware’s legacy includes his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2009 and a lasting impact on wrestling through his unique characters and memorable performances.

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Koko B. Ware Wrestling Competition

• Continental Wrestling Association (CWA)
• Nick Gulas’ Territory
• World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW)
• Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF)
• Universal Wrestling Federation (UWF)
• World Wrestling Federation (WWF)
• United States Wrestling Association (USWA)
• American Wrestling Federation (AWF)
• Power Pro Wrestling
• Galaxy Championship Wrestling (GCW)
• Memphis Wrestling
• Valour Wrestling
• Pennsylvania Premiere Wrestling (PPW)

Koko B. Ware Wife

In September 2009, Koko B. Ware experienced a significant personal loss with the passing of his wife, who succumbed to cancer. 

This period was marked by grief and adjustment as Ware navigated life without his life partner. 

The loss was a profound one for Ware, reflecting the emotional toll that such events can have on individuals, particularly those who are in the public eye.

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Despite this hardship, Ware found new beginnings in his personal life. In 2020, he married Tamela James. 

This new chapter brought Ware renewed joy and companionship, providing him with support and stability as he continued to navigate the complexities of life. 

Tamela James’s entry into his life marked a positive shift and a fresh start for Ware, highlighting his resilience and capacity for moving forward despite past challenges.

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Koko B. Ware Now

As of 2024, Koko B. Ware is 66 years old and remains a respected figure in the world of professional wrestling. 

Born James W. Ware Jr., Ware made his debut in the wrestling industry in 1978, beginning a career that would span several decades and numerous promotions. 

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His early years in the sport were marked by gradual progress as he honed his skills and established his presence in various wrestling territories.

Ware gained widespread recognition and popularity in 1986 when he joined the World Wrestling Federation (WWF). 

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Under the ring name Koko B. Ware, he became known for his colorful persona as “The Birdman,” which included his signature act of dancing to the ring with his macaw, Frankie. 

During his time in the WWF, Ware transitioned from a strong mid-card performer to a jobber, often facing top stars and contributing to their development by making them look impressive in the ring.

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Though his WWF career featured a mix of high-profile matches and less prominent roles, Ware’s charisma and distinctive persona left a lasting impression on fans. 

After leaving the WWF, he continued to wrestle on the independent circuit and appeared in various promotions, including the USWA and later, in sporadic WWE appearances.

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Today, Koko B. Ware remains an iconic figure in wrestling history, celebrated for his contributions to the sport and his memorable character. 

His career achievements, including his 2009 induction into the WWE Hall of Fame, underscore his lasting impact and enduring popularity within the wrestling community.

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