Bam Bam Bigelow: The Beast From The East

Bam Bam Bigelow, known for his incredible agility and strength, is a legendary figure in the world of professional wrestling. His unique appearance, with a distinctive flame tattoo covering his bald head, made him an unforgettable character in the ring. This article delves into the life, career, and legacy of Bam Bam Bigelow, showcasing why he remains a beloved figure among wrestling fans.

Born on September 1, 1961, in Asbury Park, New Jersey, Bam Bam Bigelow, whose real name was Scott Charles Bigelow, began his wrestling career in the early 1980s. His size and athleticism set him apart from his peers, allowing him to perform moves that were unexpected for someone of his stature. Throughout his career, he competed in various promotions, including the WWF, WCW, and ECW, leaving a significant mark in each organization.

This article will explore Bam Bam Bigelow's biography, his rise to fame, notable matches, and his impact on the wrestling industry. We will also examine his personal life and the legacy he left behind, solidifying his status as one of the most memorable wrestlers in history.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Bam Bam Bigelow
• Early Career
• Bam Bam Bigelow in WWF
• Bam Bam Bigelow in WCW
• Bam Bam Bigelow in ECW
• Notable Matches and Feuds
• Personal Life
• Legacy and Impact

Biography of Bam Bam Bigelow

Early Life

Bam Bam Bigelow grew up in a challenging environment, facing numerous hardships during his childhood. He was a gifted athlete, excelling in various sports, particularly football, which helped him build the physicality that would later define his wrestling persona.

Wrestling Debut

Bigelow made his professional wrestling debut in 1985, quickly gaining attention for his impressive agility and size. He initially worked for various independent promotions before making his way to larger organizations.

Early Career

Before achieving fame, Bam Bam Bigelow honed his skills in smaller wrestling promotions. His early career included stints in the American Wrestling Association (AWA) and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA), where he developed his persona and in-ring abilities.

During this time, Bigelow began to attract attention for his unique combination of speed and power, setting the stage for his future success in larger promotions. His hard work and dedication paid off when he signed with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in the early 1990s.

Bam Bam Bigelow in WWF

Bigelow's time in the WWF is perhaps the most recognized phase of his career. He made his debut in 1993, quickly becoming a fan favorite due to his charismatic personality and impressive wrestling style.

Notable Feuds

During his tenure in the WWF, Bam Bam Bigelow was involved in several high-profile feuds, including matches against top stars like The Undertaker and Hulk Hogan. His rivalry with The Undertaker culminated in a memorable match at WrestleMania IX, showcasing Bigelow's in-ring prowess and cementing his place in wrestling history.

Tag Team Success

Bigelow also found success in tag team competition, teaming up with fellow wrestler Tatanka to challenge for the WWF Tag Team Championship. Their combination of strength and agility made them a formidable duo, further highlighting Bigelow's versatility as a wrestler.

Bam Bam Bigelow in WCW

After leaving the WWF, Bam Bam Bigelow joined World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in the late 1990s. His time in WCW allowed him to continue showcasing his talents on a larger stage, competing against some of the biggest names in the industry.

Championship Pursuits

While in WCW, Bigelow pursued various championships, including the WCW World Tag Team Championship. He had notable matches against competitors like DDP (Diamond Dallas Page) and Raven, further establishing his reputation as a top-tier wrestler.

Innovative Matches

Bam Bam Bigelow also participated in several innovative matches during his time in WCW, including the prestigious WarGames match, which highlighted his ability to adapt to different wrestling styles and formats.

Bam Bam Bigelow in ECW

In the late 1990s, Bam Bam Bigelow transitioned to Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), where he found a new level of success. ECW's emphasis on hardcore wrestling allowed Bigelow to showcase his toughness and resilience in brutal matches.

Memorable Moments

Bigelow's time in ECW is marked by memorable moments, including his involvement in iconic matches that pushed the boundaries of professional wrestling. His matches against rivals like Taz and Sabu solidified his reputation as a hardcore wrestling legend.

Returning to the Spotlight

In ECW, Bigelow experienced a resurgence in popularity, reminding fans of his incredible skills and charisma. His ability to adapt to the hardcore style revitalized his career and introduced him to a new generation of wrestling fans.

Notable Matches and Feuds

Bam Bam Bigelow's career is filled with memorable matches that highlight his unique wrestling style. Some of his most notable matches include:

• WrestleMania IX vs. The Undertaker
• ECW's Anarchy Rulz vs. Taz
• WCW's Bash at the Beach vs. DDP
• ECW's November to Remember vs. Sabu

Personal Life

Outside of wrestling, Bam Bam Bigelow faced personal challenges, including battles with addiction. Despite these struggles, he remained a dedicated father to his children and worked hard to support them throughout his life.

Health Issues

In the years following his retirement from wrestling, Bigelow faced various health issues, including complications related to his weight and lifestyle. He openly discussed his struggles and worked to improve his health, demonstrating his determination and resilience.

Final Years

Bam Bam Bigelow passed away on January 19, 2017, at the age of 55. His death was a significant loss to the wrestling community, as fans and fellow wrestlers remembered him for his contributions to the industry and his larger-than-life personality.

Legacy and Impact

Bam Bam Bigelow's legacy in professional wrestling is undeniable. He paved the way for future generations of wrestlers, proving that size and agility could coexist in the ring. His unique persona and memorable matches continue to inspire aspiring wrestlers today.

Influence on Future Wrestlers

Many current wrestlers cite Bam Bam Bigelow as an influence in their careers, admiring his ability to break the mold of traditional wrestling archetypes. His impact on the industry remains evident in the styles and personalities of today’s wrestlers.

Hall of Fame Status

Although not inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame during his lifetime, fans and wrestling historians continue to advocate for his recognition. Bigelow's contributions to wrestling have left a lasting impression that deserves acknowledgment from the industry.

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