The world of wrestling is currently grieving the loss of American Wrestling Association alum Bob Bruggers, who passed away at the age of 80 this week.
The news of Bruggers’ death was first reported by the Minnesota Star-Tribune. He is most notably remembered for his noteworthy contributions in the AWA and the NWA, where he regularly locked horns with professional wrestling great, Roddy Piper.
Bruggers also had a storied football career before he entered the wrestling ring. He played for six seasons in the National Football League prior to making the shift to professional wrestling.
As part of his achievements in wrestling, Bruggers, along with his partner Paul Jonews, clinched the title as tag-team champions. They won the Mid-Atlantic Wrestling title from Gene & Ole Anderson in April 1974.
Nearly a year later, Bruggers’ wrestling career came to a sudden halt following his severe injuries from a notorious plane crash. Other people involved in the crash were David Crockett, Johnny Valentine, Mr. Wrestling Tim Woods, and Ric Flair.
The injuries Bruggers sustained from the crash included a broken ankle and multiple spinal issues. After the accident, he was unable to return to wrestling. Nevertheless, he managed to open a successful bar business.
We, the team at eWrestlingNews.com, extend our heartfelt condolences to all those who were close to Bob Bruggers.