Pez Whatley Then and Now

Pez Whatley Then

Pez Whatley, born on January 10, 1951, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, made an early impression through his athletic abilities. 

He initially showcased his talents in football and wrestling while attending Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga. 

Whatley continued his athletic journey at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC), where he became the institution’s first African-American wrestler. 

His diverse sports background laid a strong foundation for his future wrestling career, combining his physical prowess and competitive spirit from both football and powerlifting.

Pez Whatley Wrestling Career

Whatley’s professional wrestling career began in 1973 after a brief stint in powerlifting. 

He first gained attention in the wrestling world with the original Sheik’s Big Time Wrestling before establishing a reputation in regional circuits across Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee. 

During his time in Georgia Championship Wrestling, Whatley was involved in a memorable feud with the Junkyard Dog, which included a dramatic match against Buzz Sawyer. 

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His wrestling career continued to flourish with notable rivalries, including a feud with Paul Ellering’s Legion of Doom and high-profile matches against Jake “The Snake” Roberts and Greg Valentine.

In 1984, Whatley transitioned to Florida Championship Wrestling, where he captured the Southern Title twice and was part of the “Convertible Blondes” faction in Angelo Poffo’s International Championship Wrestling (ICW). 

His stint in ICW was marked by the infamous “Mop Head” angle, which led to a prolonged feud with Ron Garvin and a notable losing streak.

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Whatley furthered his career with Jim Crockett Promotions in 1985, engaging in prominent storylines and turning on former ally Jimmy Valiant. 

Despite losing a hair vs. hair match to Valiant, Whatley continued to make a mark with his provocative persona and aspirations, including a bold declaration of wanting to become the first black NWA Champion.

Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, Whatley adapted to different wrestling styles and promotions. 

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He formed a tag team with Tiger Conway Jr. as “The Jive Tones” in late 1987, and later became a top face in Southeast Championship Wrestling under the alias “Willie B. Hert.” 

His career also included a stint in Japan’s UWFi and roles as an enhancement talent in the WWF and WCW. 

Whatley retired from in-ring competition in 1998 but continued to contribute to the wrestling industry as a backstage worker and assistant trainer at the WCW Power Plant.

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Pez Whatley Wrestling Competition

• Big Time Wrestling (original Sheik)
• Georgia Championship Wrestling
• Florida Championship Wrestling
• International Championship Wrestling (ICW)
• Jim Crockett Promotions (NWA)
• Southeast Championship Wrestling
• UWFi (Japan)
• World Wrestling Federation (WWF)
• World Championship Wrestling (WCW)

Pez Whatley Now

Pez Whatley, who passed away on January 18, 2005, at the age of 54, is remembered as a significant figure in professional wrestling, particularly for his contributions to NWA Mid-America. 

His career, spanning from the early 1970s to the late 1990s, left a lasting impact on the wrestling world through his dynamic performances and memorable rivalries. 

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Whatley’s time in wrestling was marked by his involvement in various regional promotions and notable angles that showcased his versatility and charisma in the ring.

Posthumously, Whatley’s legacy was further honored when he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2021 as a legacy member. 

This recognition highlights his enduring influence and contributions to the sport. 

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The Hall of Fame induction serves as a testament to Whatley’s skill, dedication, and the significant role he played in shaping the landscape of professional wrestling. 

Despite his passing, Pez Whatley’s legacy continues to be celebrated by fans and peers alike, ensuring that his impact on wrestling history remains acknowledged and appreciated.

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