Kyle Klingman passed this along.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wrestling icon Maurice Vachon passes
The National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum would like to recognize the life and legacy of Maurice Vachon. Vachon passed away at the age of 84 earlier this morning.
Vachon was inducted into the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2003. Induction into the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame includes substantial impact on professional wrestling, general respect within the profession, and a strong amateur wrestling background.
“Maurice was one of the last true greats in professional wrestling,” said Gerry Brisco, chairman of the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame selection committee. “He epitomized everything the Hall of Fame stands for. He will be missed by everyone in professional wrestling.”
A native of Montreal, Canada, Maurice Vachon had a very successful amateur wrestling career. He won three national titles in Canada and was a member of the Canadian 1948 Olympic team, placing seventh in the 174-pound class while just eighteen years old. In 1950, he won a gold medal at the British Empire Games.
Shortly after, Vachon gave up his amateur status to turn professional and enjoyed a pro career that lasted nearly four decades. He adopted the name “Mad Dog” while wrestling in the American Wrestling Association (AWA) with Verne Gagne, and became a top draw worldwide.
Vachon was world heavyweight champion for the AWA on four different occasions. He also was half of the tag-team world champions, pairing first with his brother, Paul Vachon, and then later in his career with Verne Gagne. Maurice’s sister, Vivian, was also a world-class women’s wrestler.
The National Wrestling Hall of Fame Dan Gable Museum will have a special recognition for Vachon during its George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame inductions on July 18-19 in Waterloo, Iowa.