Wrestling world loses a legend

IN his prime ... Wrestling legend Billy Robinson.

BRITAIN’S “greatest ever wrestler” has died aged 74.

Manchester-born wrestling legend Billy Robinson, who once ran a gym in Failsworth, died peacefully at his home in Arkansas, USA, on Monday.

After becoming British national champion and European Open Champion in the 1950s, he became a huge star in America with the American Wrestling Association in the 1970s and also made a name for himself in Japan.

Ian McGregor, wrestling promoter and former wrestler, said: “He is quite simply Britain’s greatest ever wrestler; maybe even the world’s. He led the way for every other wrestler after him.”

Before America, Robinson learned “catch” wrestling – a less entertainment-based form of the sport - at the infamous Snake Pit gym in Wigan.

He retired in 1991 after 37 years in the ring and became a catch wrestling coach.

Mr McGregor said: “Everybody involved in that particular type of wrestling knows his name and has learned something from him.”

The Queen Elizabeth Hall is hosting an American Wrestling night on Saturday starring Oldham’s Clinton “Rocky” Steele and the event will now be dedicated to the grappling icon.