Written by Melba Busby
Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Ivan Koloff is a name that holds significance in the world of professional wrestling. With a career spanning several decades, he left an indelible mark on the industry and became a household name for wrestling fans around the globe. From his intimidating presence in the ring to his captivating storytelling ability, Ivan Koloff became a force to be reckoned with. In this article, we will delve into 16 intriguing facts about Ivan Koloff, shedding light on his life, his accomplishments, and the impact he had on the wrestling landscape. So, sit back, grab a chair, and prepare to be enthralled by the fascinating journey of Ivan Koloff.
Key Takeaways:
- Ivan Koloff, also known as “The Russian Bear,” was a famous wrestler who won the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship and had a villainous persona, leaving a lasting impact on the wrestling world.
- Ivan Koloff’s legacy lives on even after his passing, as he inspired future wrestlers, trained aspiring stars, and was posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2017.
Ivan Koloff was a professional wrestler.
Known as “The Russian Bear,” Ivan Koloff was a renowned professional wrestler who made a name for himself in the wrestling industry.
Ivan Koloff was born on August 25, 1942.
Born on August 25, 1942, Ivan Koloff grew up to become one of the most recognizable faces in professional wrestling.
Ivan Koloff’s real name was Oreal Perras.
Before adopting the ring name Ivan Koloff, he was known as Oreal Perras in his early wrestling career.
Ivan Koloff held the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship.
In 1971, Ivan Koloff shocked the wrestling world by defeating Bruno Sammartino to win the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship.
Ivan Koloff was known for his villainous persona.
Ivan Koloff embraced his role as a villain in the wrestling world, often portraying a Russian character to taunt his opponents and rile up the crowd.
Ivan Koloff had an intense rivalry with Bruno Sammartino.
After winning the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship, Ivan Koloff’s feud with Bruno Sammartino intensified, leading to several memorable matches between the two.
Ivan Koloff wrestled for various promotions.
Throughout his career, Ivan Koloff competed in several wrestling promotions including WWE, NWA, and Jim Crockett Promotions, leaving a lasting impact wherever he went.
Ivan Koloff retired from professional wrestling in 1994.
After decades of entertaining fans in the wrestling ring, Ivan Koloff retired from professional wrestling in 1994, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.
Ivan Koloff was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2017.
In recognition of his contributions to the wrestling industry, Ivan Koloff was posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2017.
Ivan Koloff passed away on February 18, 2017.
The wrestling world mourned the loss of Ivan Koloff when he passed away on February 18, 2017, leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.
Ivan Koloff trained future wrestling stars.
Throughout his career, Ivan Koloff shared his knowledge and expertise by training aspiring wrestlers, shaping the future of the industry.
Ivan Koloff had a successful tag team career.
Aside from his accomplishments as a singles wrestler, Ivan Koloff also had a successful tag team career, teaming up with legends like Nikita Koloff and Krusher Khruschev.
Ivan Koloff appeared in movies and TV shows.
Outside of the wrestling ring, Ivan Koloff made appearances in various movies and TV shows, showcasing his versatility and charisma.
Ivan Koloff authored his autobiography.
Ivan Koloff shared his life story and experiences in the wrestling business by writing his autobiography titled “Is That Wrestling Fake?”
Ivan Koloff’s legacy lives on in the wrestling community.
Even after his passing, Ivan Koloff’s impact on the wrestling community continues to be felt, with fans and fellow wrestlers cherishing his contributions.
Ivan Koloff inspired future generations of wrestlers.
The influence of Ivan Koloff extends beyond his contemporaries, as his style, character, and determination have inspired and influenced numerous wrestlers who followed in his footsteps.
Conclusion
Ivan Koloff, also known as “The Russian Bear,” left an indelible mark on the professional wrestling industry. From his legendary victory over Bruno Sammartino to his successful career spanning over three decades, Koloff’s impact on the sport is unmatched. His larger-than-life persona and charismatic presence inside the ring made him a fan favorite and a formidable opponent.Through this article, we have explored 16 fascinating facts about Ivan Koloff. From his real name and birthdate to his tag team partnerships and championship reigns, we have delved into the life and accomplishments of this wrestling icon. Whether you are a longtime fan of Ivan Koloff or new to the world of professional wrestling, these facts provide a deeper insight into the career of this legendary athlete.Ivan Koloff’s contributions to the wrestling industry have secured his place in history as one of the most iconic figures in the sport. His impact on both fans and fellow wrestlers alike continues to be felt even to this day. Ivan Koloff will always be remembered as a trailblazer and a true legend in the world of professional wrestling.
FAQs
1. What is Ivan Koloff’s real name?
Ivan Koloff’s real name was Oreal Perras.
2. When was Ivan Koloff born?
Ivan Koloff was born on August 25, 1942.
3. What was Ivan Koloff’s signature move?
Ivan Koloff was known for his devastating finisher, the Russian Sickle, where he would deliver a powerful clothesline to his opponents.
4. Who did Ivan Koloff defeat to win the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship?
Ivan Koloff famously defeated Bruno Sammartino on January 18, 1971, to win the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship.
5. Did Ivan Koloff have any tag team partners?
Yes, Ivan Koloff formed successful tag teams with partners like Nikita Koloff, Krusher Khruschev, and Don Kernodle.
6. How long was Ivan Koloff’s wrestling career?
Ivan Koloff had a career that spanned over three decades, from the 1960s to the 1990s.
7. How many championship titles did Ivan Koloff win?
Ivan Koloff won numerous championship titles throughout his career, including the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship, NWA Canadian Heavyweight Championship, and NWA Mid-Atlantic Tag Team Championship.
8. Did Ivan Koloff ever retire from professional wrestling?
No, Ivan Koloff never officially retired from professional wrestling. He continued to make occasional appearances even after stepping away from the ring.
9. What was Ivan Koloff’s legacy in the wrestling industry?
Ivan Koloff’s legacy in the wrestling industry is that of a legendary and influential figure who left an enduring impact on the sport. His contributions as a performer and character continue to be celebrated by wrestling fans around the world.
10. Is Ivan Koloff still alive?
No, Ivan Koloff passed away on February 18, 2017, at the age of 74.
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