Steve Blackman Then and Now

By / September 11, 2024

Steve Blackman Then

Steve Blackman was born on September 28, 1963, in Annville, Pennsylvania, USA. 

Before his wrestling career, Blackman was deeply involved in bodybuilding and weightlifting, building a strong foundation of physical fitness. 

His early athletic pursuits showcased his dedication to maintaining a well-conditioned physique, something that would later contribute to his in-ring style and persona. 

Blackman’s focus on bodybuilding and weightlifting also helped him develop the muscle mass and strength necessary for professional wrestling. 

His martial arts training, which included escrima and tae kwon do, would later become central elements of his wrestling persona.

steve blackman wwe
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Steve Blackman Wrestling Career

Steve Blackman entered the world of professional wrestling in 1986, training under Tony Altamore in Connecticut. 

He initially wrestled in smaller promotions, including Stu Hart’s Stampede Wrestling in Calgary, Canada. 

Blackman gained valuable international experience early in his career, including a stint in New Japan Pro-Wrestling during the 1988 New Year Golden Series. 

Related Article: Al Snow Then and Now

In these early years, Blackman faced top Japanese talents like Tatsumi Fujinami and Riki Choshu. 

However, his career faced a major setback in 1989 when he contracted malaria and dysentery while wrestling in South Africa, which left him bedridden for two years. 

After recovering and spending several more years in rehabilitation, Blackman made a comeback in the mid-1990s, eventually re-entering the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1997.

In his second WWF run, Blackman debuted with the gimmick of “The Lethal Weapon,” incorporating martial arts into his in-ring style. 

Related Article: Charlie Haas Then and Now

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His early feuds and matches, including pay-per-view appearances and an undefeated streak, helped establish him as a solid competitor. 

His partnership with Ken Shamrock and his participation in the Hardcore Championship division further solidified his reputation as a dangerous competitor. 

Blackman’s hardcore matches were particularly notable for his use of martial arts weapons, which became a trademark of his character. 

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He eventually became a multi-time Hardcore Champion, known for his ability to fend off surprise attacks.

Despite his serious persona, Blackman also showed a comedic side during his time teaming with Al Snow as part of the tag team “Head Cheese,” offering a contrast to his typically stoic demeanor. 

Blackman continued to wrestle until the early 2000s, stepping away from the ring after a final WWE appearance in 2007.

Related Article: Chris Masters Then and Now

Steve Blackman Wrestling Competition

  • World Wrestling Federation (WWF)
    • House shows (1988-1989)
    • WWF Superstars (1988)
    • Survivor Series (1997)
    • Royal Rumble (1998)
    • Unforgiven: In Your House (1998)
    • WWF Brawl for All (1998)
    • WWF Intercontinental Championship tournament (1998)
    • WWF Capital Carnage (1998)
    • King of the Ring (1999)
    • Fully Loaded (1999)
    • SummerSlam (1999)
    • WWF European Championship match (1999)
    • Unforgiven (1999)
    • WrestleMania 2000 (2000)
    • WWF Hardcore Championship matches (2000)
    • SummerSlam (2000)
    • Unforgiven (2000)
    • WWF Hardcore Championship defense matches (2000-2001)
    • Raw (June 25, 2001)
  • New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW)
    • New Year Golden Series (1988)
  • Stampede Wrestling
    • Various matches (1986-1989)
  • Heartland Wrestling Association (HWA)
    • Developmental Territory matches (2001)
  • World Xtreme Wrestling (WXW)
    • One-night appearance (September 4, 2004)
  • WWE Raw 15th Anniversary Special
    • Battle royal (2007)

Steve Blackman Now

steve blackman wwe 2024
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At 60 years old, Steve Blackman, also known by his wrestling nickname “The Lethal Weapon,” has continued his passion for martial arts beyond his days as a professional wrestler. 

Best known for his time in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) from 1997 to 2002, Blackman became a fan favorite for his disciplined and intense fighting style. 

A skilled martial artist, he often incorporated escrima sticks and other martial arts techniques into his matches, making him a standout competitor.

Related Article: Spike Dudley Then and Now

At the same time, he was challenged for several mid-card titles, and his persona as a no-nonsense fighter left a lasting impression on wrestling fans.

Today, Blackman channels his wealth of experience into teaching the next generation of fighters. 

He runs his own MMA school, where students are trained in various forms of combat, ranging from wrestling to jiu-jitsu. 

Related Article: Rhino Then and Now

Blackman’s deep understanding of martial arts, combined with his years of experience in professional wrestling, has enabled him to mentor and train aspiring fighters. 

Additionally, Blackman operates the Pennsylvania Fighting Championships, an organization that showcases local and regional talent in mixed martial arts competitions. 

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Through this platform, Blackman has worked with hundreds of fighters, sharing his expertise and helping to shape their careers in the competitive world of MMA. 

His ongoing contributions to martial arts and combat sports reflect the same dedication and toughness that earned him the moniker “The Lethal Weapon.”

Related Article: Lance Storm Then and Now

FAQs

Was Steve Blackman a real martial artist? 

Yes, Steve Blackman is a real martial artist. He has extensive training in various martial arts disciplines, including karate, escrima, and jiu-jitsu, which he incorporated into his wrestling persona.

What happened to Steve Blackman in the WWE? 

Steve Blackman left WWE in 2002 due to injuries and a desire to move on from wrestling. After his departure, he shifted his focus to his martial arts training and business ventures.

Was Steve Blackman tough? 

Yes, Steve Blackman was considered tough both in and out of the ring. His martial arts background and disciplined fighting style earned him the reputation as one of the toughest wrestlers in the WWE.

Who was the wrestler who used a Kendo stick? 

Steve Blackman was known for using a Kendo stick (also called an escrima stick) as a signature weapon during his matches in WWE.

What is Steve Blackman doing now?

Steve Blackman now runs an MMA school and operates the Pennsylvania Fighting Championships, where he trains fighters and promotes mixed martial arts events.

Why did Steve Blackman stop wrestling?

Steve Blackman stopped wrestling due to injuries and a desire to pursue other interests, particularly his martial arts career and business ventures outside of WWE.

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