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Native American broke barriers in wrestling

Posted: Feb 2nd 2010 By: mikeiles

WWE Hall of Famer, Florida legend Jack Brisco dies

Friends and fans of WWE Hall of Famer Jack Brisco were saddened to learn that the legendary grappler died in Tampa earlier Monday from heart complications. He was 68.

He underwent heart surgery two weeks ago.

Freddie Joe Brisco, known to fans as Jack Brisco, was a man who rose from meager beginnings to become successful in amateur and professional wrestling.

As the first Native American to capture an NCAA wrestling championship, Brisco won the national title at 171 pounds for Oklahoma State University.

After college, Brisco joined the pro ranks where he dazzled competitors and fans with his tremendous wrestling skills. He competed in the 1960s, 70s and 80s. Besides winning the National Wrestling Alliance world heavyweight title, he also captured the NWA world tag team belts with his partner and brother, Jerry.

``Jack was the best big brother in the world,'' Jerry (Gerald) Brisco said in a release. ``When I faced tough times as a youth, he was always there for me. He paved the way for me in both amateur and professional wrestling. We even went into business together as owners of Brisco Brothers Body Shop in Tampa.

``I feel blessed that we always remained close.''

During the 1970s, Jack Brisco's popularity soared when he participated in the famous Brisco/Funk feud. Dory Funk, Jr. and Brisco packed every show for Championship Wrestling from Florida throughout the state, the Kiel Auditorium in St. Louis and arenas in Japan.

``He was a super athlete and gave credibility to professional wrestling,'' said Dory Funk Jr. who wrestled Brisco approximately 300 times.

Brisco was a top star, a fan favorite in Florida, competing under the direction of the late, great Eddie Graham.

Eddie's son, Mike, who wrestled extensively with Brisco in Florida, said: ``There have been some great amateurs who turned pro -- guys like Lou Thesz, Verne Gagne and Kurt Angle, but in my opinion, Jack Brisco was the greatest amateur turned professional in wrestling history.''

The late Gordon Solie, the voice of Championship Wrestling from Florida, often described Brisco as a ``class act, in and out of the ring.''

Former pro wrestler B. Brian Blair, a politician who lives in the Tampa area, added: ``Sadly we lost a hero today -- Jack Brisco.

``Jack was not only my childhood hero, he was one of my very best friends. If Jack could just come to one more lunch to say goodbye to everyone, if he could have one more road trip with us or pull one more `rib' on someone, I pray that the good Lord will comfort his soul and his family.

``I know we will all miss Jack Brisco, the legend, the best pure wrestler to ever wear the tights. Jack was a husband, father and one of my closest confidants. Jack, you will always be the champ. May you rest in peace dear brother. God Bless.''

For those fortunate to meet Brisco, they were greeted with a great smile, a firm handshake and a pleasant but confident demeanor.

Brisco was a very accomplished singles wrestler but also had much success teaming with brother, Jerry. They even had a stellar run as champion bad guys in the Southeast, proving they could work both sides of the fence.

Brisco along with Jerry worked with kids, teaching amateur wrestling, discipline and sportsmanship. Brisco will not only be remembered as a tremendous athlete but also a wonderful human being.

Tags: Jack Brisco, WWE, NWA, Jerry Brisco, Dory Funk, Jr., Lou Thesz, Verne Gagne, B. Brian Blair