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Chicky Starr
Chicky Starr
from Wikipedia

José Anibal Laureano Colón (born June 24, 1958) is a Puerto Rican professional wrestler and manager. He is better known by his ring name, Chicky Starr. He is best known for his work in the World Wrestling Council (WWC) and International Wrestling Association (IWA) of Puerto Rico. Starr won the WWC Universal Championship when he defeated Carlito in San Lorenzo, Puerto Rico in early 2003. Laureano has led stables including The Chicky Starr Sports Club and the Starr Corporation.

Key Information

Laureano has managed Abdullah the Butcher, Stan Hansen, Bruiser Brody, Ron Starr, Al Perez, Kareem Muhammad, Grizzly Boone, Jason the Terrible, Joe Leduc, Hercules Ayala, "Sadistic" Steve Strong, "Nature Boy" Buddy Landell, Ronnie Garvin, Harley Race, "The Raging Bull" Manny Fernández, Leo Burke, The Sheepherders, The Wild Samoans (Afa and Sika), The Samoan Swat Team, The Polynesian Prince, The Alaskan Hunters, Korsita Korchenko, Tama the Islander, Dan Kroffat, Scott Hall, Abbuda Dein, The Iron Sheik, Killer Khalifa, Invader #2, Crash the Eliminator, The Skywalker, Huracan Castillo Jr., Victor the Bodyguard, "Dirty" Dutch Mantell, Ricky Banderas, Tower of Doom, Shane the Glamour Boy, "Mr.Ray-tings" Ray Gonzalez, Steve Corino, "The Precious One" Gilbert, Black Pain, The Sons of Samoa, Los Renegados del Infierno, Thunder and Lightning, Mighty Ursus, among others.

Professional wrestling career

[edit]

Early career (1975–1985)

[edit]

Starr formed a tag team with Antonio Pantojas known as the Peron Brothers for Stampede Wrestling in Canada. They wrestled as heels from 1981 to 1982 in Stampede. Starr often wrestled as a mid-card wrestler and in the opening matches at house shows.

From 1984 to mid 1985, Starr performed in San Antonio's Southwest Championship Wrestling (SCW). On September 9, 1984, he and Brett Sawyer won the SCW Southwest Tag Team Championship from The Fabulous Blonds (Eric Embry and Dan Greer) but dropped the belts back to The Fabulous Blonds on October 9. Starr also won the SCW Southwest Junior Heavyweight Championship from Embry, but later lost it to Ron Sexton.

WWC rebrand (1985–1991, 1995–1997, 1998–2000)

[edit]

In late 1985, Starr appeared in Puerto Rico World Wrestling Council (WWC). He became a villain when he accused his mentor El Invader #1 of holding him back. Starr challenged Invader #1 to a match, during which he attacked his mentor with a steel chair. Starr and Invader #1 feuded from the mid-1980s through the early 1990s. They competed in a "Retirement vs. Hair" match won by Invader #1 at the 1987 WWC Anniversary card. This feud ended in 1991 when Starr left the WWC to start a new promotion called the American Wrestling Federation (AWF) with Hercules Ayala, former WWC announcer Hugo Savinovich and Gloria Uribe.

Starr also became a manager and in early 1986, starting a faction initially known as El Club Deportivo (The Sports Club). He recruited Victor Rodriguez as his bodyguard. He also managed his kayfabe cousin Ron Starr. Other members of his group were Abdullah the Butcher, Al Perez, Sadistic Steve Strong, and Manny Fernandez. They feuded with El Invader #1 and Carlos Colon. In 1988, Starr defeated Rufus R. Jones to win the King of Wrestling crown.

The feud with Invader #1 resumed in 1997 when Starr returned to WWC. He teamed with Invader #2 who had turned against Invader #1 earlier that year. Starr briefly made an alliance with Invader #1 that only lasted a couple of weeks before they started feuding again. The same year, Starr created a new alliance called Starr Corporation with Victor "the Bodyguard" Rodriguez and Angel Rodriguez. Starr merged Starr Corporation with Ray Gonzalez's Familia del Milenio in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Starr Corporation (2000–2001)

[edit]

In the International Wrestling Association (IWA), the Starr Corporation was composed of Pain, Víctor "The Bodyguard" Rodriguez, Angel Rodriguez, AAA/TNA's "El Mesias" Ricky Banderas and Dutch Mantell. They feuded with Savio Vega, Shane The Glamour Boy, Los Malcriaos (Miguel Perez, Jr. and Huracan Castillo, Jr.). Starr and Victor "The Bodyguard" Rodriguez also wrestled as a tag team version of Starr Corporation and were IWA World Tag Team Champions. At Juicio Final 2001, Savio Vega (Juan Rivera) as his alternate character of Hombre Dinamita and Chicky Starr faced each other in a match known as the cage of death where the first to reach a set of handcuff keys could release their team to take on the other.[2] Vega's team was composed by Shane Sewell, Apolo (Germán Figueroa), Jesús Castillo and Kane, while he was supported by the Starr Corporation.[2] In March 2001, Lucha Libre 101 tried to join the Starr Corporation, but Starr declined.[2] At Juicio Final 2001, Vega and Castillo won a Double Caribbean Strap Match over Starr and Rodríguez, a contest with traditional strap match rules but in which the adversaries were strapped to each other.[3] In his continued feud, Tiger Ali Singh was brought to take on Vega, but failed.[4] Later in the same event, Vega attacked Starr and Rodríguez, who lost the titles due to the interference.[4] The Starr Corporation exploited differences that were emerging between different members of Los Boricuas to gain the upper hand in the ongoing feud.[5] Resuming the feud between factions, Castillo and Pérez defeated Starr and Faraón Zaruxx.[6] On June 16, 2001, Laureano joined Bouncer Bruno in an unsuccessful challenge for the Tag Team Championship.[7] On the same night, the Starr Corporation turned on Banderas after he was involved in a confrontation with the other members.[7] On August 4, 2001, Starr announced that he was firing all but one member of the Starr Corporation, being upset that Víctor Rodríguez had turned face on the group to save Banderas and lost a retirement afterwards.[8] However, this was sorely received by the other members of the stable, who adopted Angel Rodríguez as their new leader and attacked him.[8] They continued ambushing Starr during the following weeks.[9] After defeating a tag team known as Los Gringos (Dlo Brown and Chaz) and forcing one of them to leave IWA-PR, Apolo and Sewell were attacked by the Starr Corporation. Starr made the save, creating a new alliance.[9] At Rumble Boricua, Laureano defeated Angel Rodríguez.[10]

Universal Heavyweight Champion (2002–2003)

[edit]

On September 28, 2002, Laureano appeared in WWC's Aniversario 2002 and interfered in a match between Carly Colón and Konnan. WWC Continued promoting its product in Televicentro's programming, this time as part of a multi-program collaboration that began with segments in a show named Zumbate where a hidden camera prank was played on Laureano.[11] The angle was continued at SuperXclusivo, where Colón and Santarosa reached a truce of sorts, but Laureano interrupted and argued with both.[11] A wrestling special was then aired in Zúmbate, where several members of the roster performed.[11] In the same program, three masked wrestlers that were supposedly randomly recruited were revealed to be Santarrosa, Carly and Eddie Colón, which led to Laureano attacking all three.[11] On November 9, 2002, the Starr Corporation assaulted Eddie Colón. On November 14, 2002, Laureano participated in another Televicentro show, this time Club Sunshine where he confronted Sunshine Logrono while the latter was performing under the wrestling-related character of Vitin Alicea. On November 30, Laureano wrestled Colón, who attacked him until he was left bleeding.[12] In May 2003, it was reported that Laureano would be joining a new independent promotion, New Wrestling Nation, in the role of trainer.[13][14] However, the plans with the company were suddenly abandoned following an apparent failure in communication between its owner and Hugo Savinovich.[15] After a prolonged hiatus, Laureano was scheduled for an event held by independent promotion New Generation Wrestling.[16] In the event, named Maldicion Chickystarriana in his honor, he was supposed to join Hamed Martinez (who had been wrestling a character that was a homage to him, named El Chickystarriano) to wrestle in a no disqualification match. However, the event was later cancelled.[17] On July 12, 2003, WWC announced the return of Laureano to the promotion during the upcoming Aniversario event, following a week of negotiations where an undisclosed amount of money that was owed to him was paid.[18] In his return, he wrestled Ricky Santana to a double disqualification.[19] Laureano also managed Mike Awesome in his unsuccessful bid to defeat Carly Colón.[20] He then got disqualified un unsuccessful bid for the Television Championship, by hitting his opponent with a bat.[21]

WWC ownership (2003–2004)

[edit]

In the same event, Laureano attacked Carlos Colón but was stopped, being then confronted by the storyline co-owner of WWC, Ramón Álvarez, who ordered him retire the latter or be fired from the promotion citing that he disliked being bossed but had no option. Laureano unsuccessfully challenged Colón and was once again confronted by Álvarez, who asked if he was wearing a t-shirt with the Dominican flag that he was given.[22] Despite responding in the affirmative, he the revealed a shirt with the flag of Puerto Rico in a sudden face turn, only to be attacked by the entire heel stable. Laureano then interfered in a fire match between the two storyline co-owners, attacking Álvarez with a torch and telling Jovica that he was interested in his rival's half of the stocks.[23] In his return to the ring, he defeated Diamante Dominicano by disqualification.[24] On September 6, 2003, Laureano defeated Álvarez with the help of Logrono to win 50% of WWC's stocks.[25] Both met again in a match that ended with no winner due to the intervention of the heel stable.[26] On September 20, 2003, the Broncos ambushed him and his wife while they were entering a WWC card.[27] In October, WWC began airing segments where Laureano talked to someone by phone and requested his help as a bodyguard, implying that he was contacting Víctor Rodríguez.[28] However, it was later revealed that it was Milton Adorno in his return to the promotion. This alliance was short lived, since the latter left WWC two weeks later.[29] On October 25, 2003, Laureano defeated Álvarez and Estrada by disqualification and revealed the new member of the Starr Corporation, Wilfredo Alejandro.[30] However, like his previous associate this wrestler left the promotion shortly afterwards.[29] Individually, his matches with Álvarez ended without a clear winner.[31] This led to a match where a bat was placed 15 feet above the ring, which Álvarez won.[32] Afterwards, Laureano left the promotion suddenly.

Various promotions

[edit]

During this period of inactivity, he was the first guest in professional wrestling radio show, Desde la Tercera Cuerda. [33] Laureano exited this hiatus on February 28, 2004, when he participated in an event named Conquista Antillana for independent promotion Extreme Wrestling Organization.[34] Shortly the following weeks, he continued this tour in other independent promotions, such as National Wrestling Organization (NWO) and LPW.[35][36][37] On June 20, 2004, Víctor Rodríguez died of a heart attack, with Laureano leading the rest of the Chickystarrianos in homage during his funeral, during which the original flag of the stable was buried along the casket.[38] Shortly afterwards, Laureano made a one-night return to the IWA to lead a commemorative card.[39][40] On July 17, 2004, Laureano made his return to WWC at Camino a la Gloria-Fase 2, defeating Tahitian Warrior and aided Milton Adorno in his own match.[41] He quickly went after the heel faction led by Álvarez, defeating one f his minions, Estrada.[42] He and Adorno debuted as a tag team in a loss to Álvarez and Castillo, when Diabólico hit him with brass knuckles.[43] Castillo and El Bronco defeated Laureano and El Nene.[44] On August 7, 2004, Laureano presented Angel Rodríguez and announced that the Starr Corporation was back.[45] Later that night, he joined Carlos Colón for the first time after three decades of feuding and defeated Álvarez and Frontán.[46] He soon began recruiting members for the Starr Corporation, presenting new arrival Eric Pérez as its new membre.[47] Laureano also worked dates for the Xtreme Wrestling Alliance and XWE.[48][49][50] The first date of the Aniversario 2004 tour, Laureano lost to Álvarez.[51] the following day, he defeated Diabólico.[52] To close the tour, he defeated Dallas.[53] On August 28, 2004, WWC aired a segment where Laureano was about to hold a reunion with Castillo, later that day he became the latest member of the Starr Corporation.[54][55] Both teamed to defeat Álvarez and Diabólico.[56] Individually, Laureano continued the feud and defeated the latter.[57] However, Diabólico won a rematch at Fase 3.[58] Laureano the teamed with Joe Bravo but were defeated by the World Tag Team Champions.[59] He was then given a more aggressive persona despite remaining a face, often getting disqualified for attacking his opponents with a bat.[60][61] At El Llamado de la Sangre, Laureano won the World Tag Team Championship.[62] At Cierre de Temporada, Laureano joined Castillo and Angel Rodríguez in a win over part of the heel stable.[63] Both would team again on January 6, 2005, winning the World Tag Team Championship.[64] On January 8, 2005, the tag team champions defeated Estrada and Álvarez.[65] Individually, he lost to Estrada.[66] The tag team champions then wrestled Estrada and Diabólico to a no contest.[67] Following a controversial finish where they retained in a rematch, Jovica was added as a special referee.[68] Castillo and Laureano defeated Estrada and Diabólico in another match.[69] Individually, Estrada lost to Laureano.[70] On February 5, 2005, Laureano and Castillo lost the titles to Diamante and Diabólico.[71] He then resumed his feud with Álvarez, wrestling to a no-contest.[72] Laureano then teamed with a returning Colón, Sr.[73] On April 9, 2005, a now-heel Pérez defeated Laureano.[74] He then defeated Puerto Rico Heavyweight Champion Bryan by disqualification.[75] At Summer Madness, he wrestled Diamante.[76] In July, he participated at NWG's Anniversary show.[77]

WWC/NWS alliance

[edit]

During the second week of August 2005, it was informed that Laureano would be joining New Wrestling Stars (NWS), a large independent promotion that was operating on a substantial budget.[78] Aniversario 2005 was a collaboration between WWC and NWS, and Laureano lost to Estrada.[79] The final date of the event, he wrestled José Estrada to a no contest.[80] Laureano was unable to wrestle in La Hora de la Verdad 3 due to a purported injury, so he managed Profe in his scheduled match with Diamante.[81] However, it was later revealed that he was involved in the kidnapping of his adversary's wife and proceeded to attack him along several heels. In March, he participated in cards for PEW and PWA.[82] In NWS he managed Adorno while not wrestling himself.[83] VQ.[84] While NWS reorganized after a schism where half of its personnel splintered to for World Wrestling Stars, Laureano was announced for a PRWA card.[85] However he cancelled this date after deciding to return to WWC.[86] On June 10, 2006, Laureano challenged for the title of NWG.[87] On June 30, 2006, he reappeared at the promotion's So Hot Wrestling Summer.[88] At the second Bruiser Brody Cup, Laureano received an homage and a cake for his birthday, but Estrada interrupted and attacked him.[89] Later that night he teamed with Castillo in a disqualification win over Estrada and Arson. The champions retained in a rematch held the following week.[90] On July 7, 2006, Laureano appeared in a NWG card and wrestled Eli Rodríguez to a no contest.[91] He was unable to meet his next compromise with this promotion.[92] At WWC, he lost to Montalvo after Estrada interfered.[93] On July 15, 2006, Laureano and Estrada wrestled to a no contest.[94] He then faced Álvarez in a match where he was attacked until Eddie Colón made the save.[95] This pattern continued in a match against Montalvo, where Orlando Colón made the save.[96] The following event, he joined the rest of the New Starr Corporation in a loss to Poder Supremo.[97] Laureano also worked as manager for Castillo and Joel, as they won and defended the World Tag Team Championship.[98][99] At Septiembre Negro, he defeated masked wrestler Jason X.[100] Later in the tour the Starr Corporation defeated the Poder Supremo.[101] The final night of the tour, he defeated Hannibal by disqualification.[102] On September 9, 2006, Laureano teamed with Figueroa at independent promotion WWR, amid rumors that he was leaving WWC.[103][104] During this time, he became involved in negotiations with NWS.[105] Despite this, he made a final appearance for WWC on September 9, 2006, unsuccessfully challenging for the World Tag Team Championship.[106] For days later, Laureano returned to the NWS and was placed in a match against masked wrestler Reinstein.[107] However, this return was short-lived since NWS confronted internal issues that led to most of its roster leaving, including Laureano himself who returned to WWC and managed Castillo.[108] On October 5, 2006, he participated in a match where Los Hermanos Perron reunited in order to raise funds for El Profe's wife.[109] Prior to Halloween Wrestling Xtravaganza, Laureano lost to Arson.[110] At the event, he teamed with Black Rose in a win over Rudy and Dominique.[111] Laureano also participated in the RWA's Halloween Resurrection event.[112] In WWC, he continued serving as manager of the New Starr Corporation until Lockout, where Castillo turned on him.[113] After WWC closed its season, PRWA scheduled him to compete for the PRWA World Xtreme Heavyweight Championship.[114] However, he was attacked by Castillo.[115] This marked the final stage of this WWC run. In January, Laureano helped launch a new independent promotion, All Star Wrestling.[116] In April, Laureano appeared in PRWA as both a performer and also awarding the eponymous Chicky Starr Cup to its winner.[117]

New Starr Corporation

[edit]

On April 14, 2007, Laureano appeared in the IWA and participated in a ceremony in honor of Víctor Quiñones.[118] Shortly afterwards, he joined the regular roster managing Noel Rodríguez.[119] He quickly became involved in a rivalry with Orlando Toledo, the interim President of the IWA, after aiding Rodríguez in a match for the Hardcore Championship.[120] He served as special referee in a match between Cotto and Joe Bravo.[121] On May 5, 2007, Huertas appeared backstage and was confronted by Toledo, later in the show he was shown warning Cotto about thrusting Laureano, prompting a confrontation between both veterans.[122] At Juicio Final, Laureano lost to Joan Guzmán after the Caballleros de la Revolución cheated.[123] Later in the event, he was involved in a confrontation with Huertas after being accidentally hit during a save. On May 19, 2007, Laureano and Rodríguez teamed to defeat Los Caballeros de la Revolución.[124] Upon learning who was responsible for the attack at Juicio Final, Laureano confronted Rodríguez about keeping silence.[125] Afterwards, La Revolución Dominicana extended an offer to become their manager, but Laureano did not immediately accept despite letting Rodríguez know that he no longer trusted him.[126] Laureano was one of several IWA talents that participated in Junte para la Historia, a card held on June 14, 2007, in memorial of deceased wrestler Omar Pérez Barreto.[127] At the José Miguel Pérez Cup, Laureano and Huertas formed an alliance after Rodríguez showed a video proving that it was an accident.[128] However this was short lived, as later in the event the Starr Corporation turned on Huertas and joined La Revolución in an attack over him and Los Rabiosos, giving birth to the New Starr Revolution Corporation. Afterwards, Laureano expressed that they intended to conquer all championships, prompting a confrontation with the also-heel stable of Orlando Toledo over the World Heavyweight Championship.[129] At Armageddon, Dennis Rivera accepted the invitation of Rodríguez to join them despite the intervention of his father and brother, being welcomed by Laureano.[130] After Bravo left the company, Laureano focused on insubordinate minion Guzmán.[131] At Golpe de Estado, the New Starr Revolution Corporation attacked Guzmán after he accepted the invitation to join Los Encapuchados de la Calle.[132] IWA then aired a segment where Los Hermanos Rodríguez mentioned that they hadn't seen Laureano.[133] The sudden turn caused suspicion in the New Starr Revolution Corporation and Toledo's Club Élite, with all factions remaining independent.[134] However, afterwards Laureano entered a hiatus of several months.[135] On March 15, 2008, he reappeared in IWA programming. In his return, Laureano served as the special referee in a match between González and Cotto, helping the former win after being attacked by the latter.[136] On March 29, 2008, Noel Rodríguez and Dennis Rivera turned on Laureano, ending the Starr Corporation.[137]

On April 13, 2008, Los Hermanos Rodríguez (now known as Los Dueños de la Malicia) severely beat a team that had been sent by Laureano.[138] After defeating another of Laureano's team, La Cruz del Diablo challenged Los Dueños de la Malicia.[139] At Juicio Final, Laureano made an appearance and attacked Los Dueños de la Malicia.[140] In June, Laureano wrestled a returning Figueroa at a PRWA show.[141]

Counselor of La Familia

[edit]

On July 5, 2008, WWC announced that Laureano would be present in what was promoted as Colón, Sr.’s retirement.[142] Carlos Colón’s retirement ceremony at Aniversario 2008 was attended by Abdullah, Chicky Starr, José Luis Rivera and Harley Race, with a message from Ric Flair being aired.[143] On September 4, 2008, he was among those involved in organizing a charity card.[144] He also served as occasional commentator.[145] Later that month, Laureano was reintroduced at WWC as a counselor and manager in Ray González’s La Familia.[146] On September 20, 2008, Los Renegados del Infierno defeated Thunder and Lighting with the help of Laureano, winning the World Tag Team Championship.[147] In a rematch for the titles, Laureano interfered and allowed Los Renegados del Infierno to retain.[148] While González took a sabbatical for personal reasons, he served as the spokesman of La Familia. After being accidentally hit, Laureano left Los Renegados del Infierno corner, allowing Thunder and Lightning to win the titles.[149] Afterwards, González placed him in charge of Charles Evans’ career.[150] On November 22, 2008, the Commission denied to reinstall Álvarez, who then turned on González and was joined by Laureano and the rest of La Familia.[151] BJ then defeated Laureano, being attacked afterwards.[152] At Lockout, Evans turned on Laureano following a loss.[153] At Euphoria, Laureano was disqualified after violently attacking Evans.[154] Laureano then helped González defeat Evans.[155] BJ then defeated Evans with the distraction of Laureano.[156] Corino then defeated González to win the Universal Heavyweight Championship in a match where Laureano initially served as special referee and was attacked.[157] González and Laureano then defeated Corino and Mr. Mac, after which La Pesadilla intervened.[158] After reports claimed that Laureano was leaving for PRWA, WWC clarified that this was inaccurate.[159][160] Castillo, Estrada and Mr. Mac then defeated Thunder, Lightning and Laureano, after hitting the latter with a title belt.[161] Thunder and Lightning then teamed with Laureano to defeat Castillo, Estrada and Mr. Mac.[162] Laureano then defeated Mac in a hair vs. hair match.[163] González and Laureano then lost a tag team match to Álvarez and Corino, who used brass knuckles.[164] Laureano was then attacked by Idol Stevens.[165] Laureano then lost a match to Mr. Mac after being hit with brass knuckles.[166] At Camino a la Gloria, Laureano defeated Mac in a lumberjack match.[167] Mac then won a match by accident.[168] He won a rematch by disqualification.[169] At Honor vs. Traición Laureano defeated Mac, forcing him to wear a dress.[170] Laureano, BJ and Lightning then defeated Corino, Mac and Stevens.[171] Prior to Aniversario, Gorbea complained that he did not even have a match for the event and challenged Laureano, only to be confronted by Reyes, Mulero, Styles, Angel and Díaz.[172] Laureano accepted the challenge on the condition that it was an extreme rules match. La Pesadilla, Mac and Idol Steven then defeated Thunder and Lightning and Laureano, after Gorbea attacked the latter.[172] Segments were later aired where Díaz questioned Laureano's ability to perform in an X-match at his age.[173] In the lead up to Aniversario 2009, Laureano made media appearances to promote the event.[174] The X match at Aniversario was won by Díaz.[175] He continued active in the promotion afterwards.[176] In August 2009, it was announced that Laureano would host a radio segment in La Mega.[177] He made appearances in the independent circuit.[178]

Feud with Fake Chicky Starr

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Gorbea was then involved in a storyline where he dropped his gimmick of Tommy Diablo and appropriated José Laureano's Chicky Starr persona.[179] He no-showed Septiembre Negro's opening card.[180] The following date, Gorbea hosted an edition of the Chicky Starr Sport Shop and attempted to convince the former Chicky Starr to forfeit, only to be attacked and then beaten by Laureano in a match where the winner would keep the name.[181] José Chaparro then attacked Laureano after he interfered in a match on behalf of Thunder and Lightning.[182] Laureano then defeated Chapparro, only to be attacked and covered in feathers by the American Family.[183] Díaz and Laureano then defeated Mulero and a jobber.[184] At Halloween Wrestling Xtravaganza, Laureano defeated Chaparro in a match where the loser would get covered in feathers.[185] Laureano then defeated Chaparro in a bat on a pole match, despite his opponent sabotaging the pole.[186] On January 9, 2010, it was reported that WWE had released Pain.[187] WWC made moves to secure his return to the promotion, later announcing his return as well as Laureano's as his manager.[188][189] At Euphoria 2010, Pain defeated Álvarez with the help of Laureano.[190] In February 2010, Black Pain was unsuccessful in a bid for Orlando Colón's the Puerto Rico Heavyweight Championship when his manager was attacked.[191] Pain then defeated King Tonga Jr. by disqualification, when the heels stole Starr's bat.[192] Tonga Jr. defeated Pain, while Chaparro restrained Starr.[193] Cotto defeated Black Pain by cheating, with Starr clearing the ring afterwards which Chaparro protested.[194] At Camino a la Gloria, Starr defeated El Wizard.[195] Laureano also made wrestling appearance for EBW.[196] After being scheduled to appear in a match at Aniversario 2010, Laureano did not appear.[197] He reappeared in WWC as a critic, commenting on a match between Carlito Caribbean Cool and Ricky Banderas to be held at Septiembre Negro 2010.[198]

Advising Gilbert

[edit]

At Euphoria 2011, Laureano made his return to WWC, addressing the crowd.[199] Leading up to Aniversario, Gilbert contracted an advisor prior to his match against Huertas, who was revealed to be Chicky Starr.[200][201] During the contract signing for the match between Gilbert and Invader, Starr was announced as guest referee.[202] Gilbert defeated Mad Man Manson when Starr cheated by passing him a bat. Both met and challenged each other to a match at Aniversario.[203] Meanwhile, he was among the wrestlers appearing in mainstream media promoting WWC.[204] To open Aniversario, Huertas and Díaz defeated Gilbert and Laureano.[205] The main night, Invader hit his finisher on Laureano as part of his match against Gilbert, with ended in a no contest.[206] At Septiembre Negro 2011, Laureano helped Gilbert defeat Huertas in a lumberjack match with Carlos Colón, Estrada, José Luis Rivera, Invader #3, Sammy Rodríguez and Fidel Sierra.[207] Huertas then challenged Laureano, leading to a hair vs. hair match.[208][209][210] At Halloween Wrestling Xtravaganza, Chicky Starr defeated Huertas by cheating to win his hair.[211] Gilbert became the first contender to the Universal Heavyweight Championship by defeating Shane Sewell with the help of Chicky Starr.[212] Laureano continued celebrating, while Huertas remained silent.[213] At Crossfire, Huertas challenged Laureano to a stipulation match.[214] Castillo and Laureano faced each other.[215] To open Lockout, Castillo defeated Laureano by disqualification.[216] The following night, Huertas defeated Laureano in the stipulation match.[217] During the offseason, he wrestled for IWL.[218] At Euphoria, Huertas defeated Laureano.[219] The following night, Castillo defeated Laureano.[220] At La Hora de la Verdad, Laureano defeated AJ Castillo.[221] Los Fujitivos defeated Mr. Big and Chicky Starr.[222] At Noche de Campeones, Gilbert turned on Laureano and attacked him along Orlando Toledo and others.[223] At Camino a la Gloria, Huertas was attacked by Orlando Toledo and his Nuevo Mando, with Laureano trying to make the save.[224] He appeared in Junte para la Historia, a charity card which included talent from several promotions.[225] Laureano began teasing the reformation of the Starr Corporation.[226] Los Fujitivos were briefly managed by Chicky Starr, who was involved in a trend where he sabotaged all of Toledo's moves.[227] A match between him and Toledo was built up.[228] The main night of the event, the New Starr Corporation defeated Nuevo Mando. To close Aniversario 2012, Toledo cheated to defeat Laureano.[229] The feud between the New Starr Corporation and Nuevo Mando continued being featured in the television programming.[230] Laureano returned to the ring and joined The Patriot to defeat Toledo and a jobber in a tag team match.[231] Chicky Starr began managing Chris Angel in a feud with Universal Heavyweight Champion Andy Levine, who got an early advantage.[232] At PRWA, Castillo and Chicky Starr clashed.[233] Their feud concluded without a winner, as both joined forces.[234]

Independent tour, managing

[edit]

In the launch show of the Action Wrestling Association (AWA), a retro-style promotion, Laureano defeated Rico Suave, but was betrayed and formed an alliance with Castillo.[235] His involvement in this promotion had been hyped during an appearance in IGWA.[236] When PRWA debuted a foul-mouthed parody named “Kiki Starr”, complete with his own “Sports Shop”, Laureano responded by calling it inaccurate and “degrading to professional wrestling”.[237][238] To close the year, Chicky Starr won the IGWA World Heavyweight Championship.[239] He made his return to WWC in a homage to Carlos Colón, later making his in-ring return by replacing Carlito at Camino a la Gloria.[240][241] At Camino a la Gloria Thunder and Lightning defeated Chicky Starr and Miguel Pérez.[242] Laureano was involved in a feud with José Chaparro, who brought wrestlers to face him.[243] Cotto defeated Ursus with the help of Laureano.[244] Ursus defeated Laureano, as Chaparro's representative.[245] In the in-ring debut of the character, The Alien defeated Laureano.[246] Laureano joined Miguel Pérez in an attempt to dethrone Los Templarios of the World Tag Team Championship.[247] At Summer Madness, Chaparro defeated Laureano with the help of Juan Manúel Ortega.[248] In singles, Laureano defeated Chaparro by using a bat.[249] He participated in a series of charity events.[250][251] He participated in the Carlos Colón Cup won by Mighty Ursus.[252] He faced Juan Manúel Ortega in a Lights Out Match.[253] WWC dedicated Aniversario to Laureano.[254] Parallel to this, Laureano continued involved in the titular scene at IGWA.[253] At WWC, Castillo attacked Laureano after being questioned about betraying Miguel Pérez.[255] Los Templarios defeated Laureano and Xavant.[256] At Aniversario 41 he received a homage, which concluded with Jerry Lawler issuing a challenge.[257] Laureano backed Xavant when facing Ursus.[258] The match with Lawler was programmed for Euphoria, but fell through.[259] At Euphoria 2015 Xavant and Laureano defeated Los Templarios.[260] Laureano faced Juan Manúel Ortega in singles.[261] Laureano helped Ursus defeat Álvarez.[262] While he was pursuing the Puerto Rico Heavyweight Championship, WWC ran a backstage angle where Ortega wanted him to return as a client.[263] In the end, Ursus turned on Laureano allowing Ortega to win and change sides.[264] He continued appearing in charity cards.[265] At Summer Madness, Fashion and El Diabólico defeated Laureano and Xavant, winning two minutes with the losers handcuffed.[266] To close the tour, Laureano wrestled El Diabólico.[267] At indy show Noche de Grandes, Laureano and Rivera wrestled to a no contest, before joining to win in a tag team match.[268] In WWC, Xavant and Laureano defeated Los Espantos.[269] At El Gran Conflicto, La Revolución jumped Laureano prior to a scheduled match against Orlando Toledo.[270] He continued appearing in charity cards.[271] To open Aniversario, La Revolución joined Toledo in a loss to Sons of Samoa and Laureano.[272] Abroad, he appeared in New Jersey for Game Changer.[273] Laureano brought Black Pain back to WWC to attack Ursus.[274] He participated in a charity card.[275] At CWA's Víctor “The Bodyguard” Rodríguez Cup, Laureano was homaged for his work as part of the Starr Corporation.[276] They clashed in a rematch.[277] He continued appearing in charity events.[278] Laureano and El Explosivo vs. Criminal de Guerra and Latin Freebird.[279] At El Profe: Una lucha Mas, Laureano and El Profe defeated Los Wizards.[280] At El Profe: Una lucha mas; La Revancha, Profe, Laureano and Pulgarcito faced The Mighty Ursus and Los Wizards.[281] In 2017, Laureano began a campaign to goad Huertas into one last match, beating a stand-in.[282] He participated in an independent show held at a hacienda.[282] In his return to WWC, Laureano was introduced as an honorary member of El Sindicato.[283] While Puerto Rico was recovering from Maria, Laureano made an appearance at New Generation Championship Wrestling among other veterans from Puerto Rico.[284] When a charity card was held for wrestling personality Gustavo Rodríguez, he participated in the card.[285] At Lucha Conquest III, Hugo Savinovich gave plaques to Laureano and Barrabás.[286]

General Manager of IWA-PR

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At Impacto Total: El Tour Savio Vega and Shane defeated Ferno and JC Navarro in a lumberjack match with the Starr Corporation surrounding the ring.[287] Huertas appeared at NGCW, as a guest referee in a match where Noriega managed by Laureano won the International Championship.[288] His return to the ring also took place in that event, where he joined Boricua Guerrero to face GM Savio Vega and Noriega.[289] Ferno revealed that Savio Vega, Shane Sewell and Tones each owned 25% of IWA, with Miguel Pérez giving up his share to Slash Venom.[290] Laureano reappeared in the promotion as a representative for Venom.[291] Backstage, Laureano brokered a meeting between Venom and Ferno.[292] After Manny Ferno defeated Savio Vega at Golpe de Estado, the GM, Legio and La Revolución attacked Puro Macho, Thunder and Lightning, with Venom and Laureano making the save. He was given an on screen authority role, managing cards to his whim.[293] At Hardcore Weekend, Laureano faced Tonos in a face slapping contest.[294] At Histeria Boricua, he was tasked with delivering a “special message”.[295] Savio Vega and Electro vs. Ferno and The Mighty Ursus with Laureano and Huertas as guest referees headlined Histeria Boricua 2022.[296]

El Nuevo Orden, headlining Aniversario 2023 (2022-present)

[edit]

In August 2022, he participated in organizing a fund raiser for Genesis Bulerin, long-time IWA Women's Champion.[297] At Euphoria 2023, Starr managed Fandango in an unsuccessful challenge for the Universal Heavyweight Championship against Intelecto 5 Estrellas.[298] This trend continued at La Hora de la Verdad 2023, when he managed Cezar Bononi, who also felt short.[299] Starr was then involved in a feud against local urban music influencer Jonathann Rosario, known as Gallo The Producer, carrying a contract for a match.[300] When a match for Aniversario was being signed between both, El Nuevo Orden turned on Starr.[301] Afterwards, he recruited Ricky Banderas to wrestle Xavant, but he failed to appear in Aniversario due to injury.[302] He formed an alliance with Gilbert. In the main event of Aniversario 50, Starr defeated Rosario.[303]

Legacy

[edit]

In wrestling

[edit]

Laureano is considered the best heel in Puerto Rico, the most successful villainous character to cross over into the main stream and generally among the top wrestlers in local history.[304][305] Several wrestlers have adopted the moniker “Chickystarriano” as part of their character, in homage of Laureano.[306] Los Chickystarrianos, first known as Legión Chickystariana and later as la Religión Chickystarriana, organized during the 1990s and were the first wrestling fan club in Puerto Rico and their presence has been ubiquitous wherever he performs for decades. Laureano has often recognized them publicly and refers to the group as “pioneers” and his “children”.[307] The group was created by several alumni of the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez and at its height had members in countries such as Brazil, Iraq, Argentina and Afghanistan.[308]

[edit]

The phrase “estás bregando Chicky Estar…”, first coined by WWC color commentator Joaquín Padín following Laureano's first heel turn, gained traction among the general population.[308] The idiom became synonymous with betrayal, treason, untrustworthiness and cheating.[308] The phrase has remained relevant for more than 40 years and morphed into memes with the advent of the internet era.[304]

Personal life

[edit]

Early life and education

[edit]

When he was a child, his nickname was “Chiquitín”, which later evolved into “Chicky”.[305] In 1982, he incorporated this into his ring name, feeling that his real name was not interesting, and added a variant of the word “star” to differentiate it.[305] In college, Laureano earned an associate degree in criminal justice and also studied pharmacy.[309]

Relationships

[edit]

Laureano has been married to Julia Candelas and Leslie Santiago (m. 2018), he is the father of several children, with the eldest being Joseph. His other sons are Alexander Alí and José Laureano Jr., who is also known by the nickname “Chiqui”, and has served as the president of the Puerto Rico Amateur Boxing Federation and of the American Boxing Conferation.[310][311][312]

Following the end of his marriage with Candelas, the couple's intimate life became the topic of media coverage in gossip shows due to several contentious events. Laureano had two daughters out of wedlock during this relationship.[313] Laureano and Candelas had a short-lived reunion in 2015.[314] That same year Laureano was briefly jailed due to a child support debt as part of a widely publicized clash with Candelas.[315] He was released after paying $4,000 and publicly thanked the Ñetas for their treatment.[316]

He and Rodríguez were friends outside the business, with the two hosting family reunions and playing different sports and games such as pool or dominos, since both lived in Levittown at that time.[317] Laureano worked for Capitol Security, property of friend Miguel Portilla where Rodríguez worked as director of security.[307] During the early 2000s, he joined Ranger American of Puerto Rico, where he served as Operation Manager. When Hurricane Marilyn struck St. Thomas, Laureano and Rodríguez worked as field security agents for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).[307] Both were contracted to work in a number of public events, notably strikes, which took them abroad on occasion. Rodríguez and his wife Kelly were the godparents of Laureano's younger daughter, Paloma.[307]

Political affiliations

[edit]

In April 2010, Laureano announced that he would run for a spot in the Puerto Rico House of Representatives for the New Progressive Party (PNP), which was covered by mainstream outlets such as El Nuevo Día and Primera Hora.[318] Wrestling fans were polled, with the majority believing that he could be elected.[319]

Health issues

[edit]

In 2016, he collapsed and was hospitalized.[320] These issues continued in 2018.[321][322][323]

Other

[edit]

Starr's oldest son is Puerto Rican boxer José Laureano who won a silver medal at the 1993 Central American and Caribbean Games. Starr owns his own brand of coquito that he sells during Christmas called "Coquito Chickystariano". Laureano is a critic of the "sports entertainment" formula now prevalent in the business, predominantly in WWE.[324]

Championships and accomplishments

[edit]

Luchas de Apuestas record

[edit]
Winner (wager) Loser (wager) Location Event Date Notes
Invader 1 (career) Chicky Starr (hair) Bayamón, Puerto Rico WWC Aniversario 87 September 20, 1987
Chicky Starr (hair) Invader 1 (hair) Bayamón, Puerto Rico WWC Aniversario 2011 July 17, 2011

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Chicky Starr, of José Laureano (born June 24, 1958), is a Puerto Rican retired professional wrestler and manager renowned for his work in regional promotions, particularly the (WWC), where he excelled as a through provocative promos, partnerships, and high-stakes feuds. Debuting in Puerto Rican independent circuits around 1976, Starr initially competed as a babyface, teaming with wrestlers like Angelo Rivera to capture the NWA Caribbean Tag Team Championship in mid-1979, before transitioning to a villainous role that defined his legacy. His tenure in WWC from 1984 onward featured intense rivalries, including scaffold matches against Invader 3 in 1986 and a retirement-versus-hair bout with Invader 1, which ranked among Puerto Rico's most heated storylines due to personal animosity and crowd violence. Starr's career also encompassed managerial duties, leading factions like the Starr Corporation, and appearances in U.S. territories such as , where he showcased technical skills at 5'10" and 215 pounds. Notable for edgy tactics, including controversial promos that drew police intervention during heated events, he contributed to the gritty realism of Puerto Rican wrestling amid broader scandals like betrayals and backstage tensions.

Professional wrestling career

Early career and initial training (1975–1985)

José Laureano, performing under the Chicky Starr, entered in 1975 by debuting in as one half of the Los Hermanos Perón with Angelo Rivera, who later became known as El Profe. This early exposure occurred amid limited documentation of formal training programs, with Laureano likely developing foundational skills through informal mentorships common in regional circuits of the era, including partnerships that emphasized coordination and basic in-ring fundamentals. Returning to , Starr competed primarily in independent promotions as a babyface, focusing on matches and establishing himself in the local scene. On August 20, 1979, he and won the NWA Caribbean under the National Wrestling Association banner, defeating prior champions in a match that highlighted their tandem offense and rising popularity among audiences. The duo defended the titles through late 1979, contributing to Starr's reputation as a dependable performer capable of sustaining multi-month reigns in secondary promotions. Starr continued wrestling in Puerto Rican independents into the early 1980s, refining his style against regional opponents such as El Gran Apollo in 1983 bouts that showcased his technical growth and adaptability. In 1984, he joined the (WWC), debuting as a solo babyface portrayed as the protégé of Invader #1, a role that allowed him to integrate storytelling elements into his matches while building toward greater prominence. This period solidified his early career foundation, transitioning from reliance to individual spotlight within Puerto Rico's premier territory.

Emergence as a top heel in WWC (1985–1991)

Starr returned to the (WWC) in the summer of 1985 following a year wrestling in the United States, initially under the guidance of Invader #1, who provided training but later became a rival. On December 22, 1985, during a match against Invader #1, Starr struck his opponent with a , marking his turn and establishing him as a villainous figure known for underhanded tactics and provocative promos. This incident ignited a prolonged , with rematches on January 6, 1986, at the Three Kings Day event and February 8, 1986, in a steel cage match. The rivalry with Invader #1 escalated through 1987, culminating in a September 20 hair-versus-retirement match under a 15-minute time limit, where Invader #1 prevailed, forcing Starr to have his head shaved. Paralleling this, Starr engaged in intense conflicts with Invader #3, including a match in 1986 that highlighted the violent, high-stakes nature of his persona. He also managed in feuds against , leading to a personal match against Colón on August 3, 1986, where Starr sought retribution for prior attacks on his charge. Additional rivalries included bouts with Huracán Castillo Sr. starting in November 1986 and action with against . Starr's in-ring success reinforced his status, as he defeated Invader #3 on March 5, 1986, to capture the WWC Junior Heavyweight Championship and, alongside , won the WWC North American Tag Team Championship by overcoming . By 1988, he claimed the King of Wrestling crown in a victory over , solidifying his position as a premier antagonist through consistent main-event bookings and segments like the "Chicky Starr Sport Shop," where he conducted interviews amplifying his . This period ended in 1991 when Starr departed WWC to launch a rival promotion, having established himself as one of the territory's most reviled figures via sustained, draw-generating confrontations.

Returns, factions, and title pursuits (1995–2001)

Following a hiatus from the promotion, Chicky Starr returned to the (WWC) in 1997, resuming his historic rivalry with Invader #1. He orchestrated the heel turn of Invader #2 by paying him to betray Invader #1, forming a temporary alliance that intensified the factional conflict within the Invader family and drew significant storyline attention. This return positioned Starr as a key in WWC's ongoing narrative of betrayals and inter-promotional tensions. By the late , Starr established the Starr Corporation as a dominant , recruiting enforcers like Victor the Bodyguard to bolster its influence. The group emphasized aggressive tactics and recruitment drives, including overtures to rivals' associates, to challenge established babyface alliances. On February 28, 1999, in , Starr and Victor the Bodyguard defeated the champions Glamour Boy Shane and Ricky Santana to capture the WWC World Tag Team Championship, marking Starr's third in the division. Starr and Victor defended the titles successfully over the ensuing months, holding them for 223 days amid feuds with top teams. The reign ended on October 9, 1999, in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico, via defeat to Invader #1 and Maelo Huertas, the brother of Invader #1 whom Starr had previously targeted for recruitment into the Corporation. Throughout 1999–2000, Starr pursued additional opportunities, including singles bouts against figures like Invader #1—often ending in disqualifications that prolonged storylines—but without securing major individual championships during this interval. The Corporation's activities extended into 2001, focusing on rebuilding momentum through alliances and opposition to emerging talents like Shane the Glamour Boy.

Ownership era and major championships (2002–2004)

In early 2003, Chicky Starr transitioned his focus to the (WWC), where he captured the promotion's top prize, the , on January 18 by defeating defending champion Carly Colón in . This victory marked Starr's first and only reign with the title, achieved after nearly three decades in , and positioned him as a central amid ongoing inter-promotional tensions with rivals like the International Wrestling Association (IWA). Starr's tenure lasted 14 days, during which he defended the belt in high-profile matches, including a bloody encounter against Eddie Colón on February 1, emphasizing his veteran tactics and reliance on interference from associates. He lost the back to Carly Colón in early February 2003, reportedly in , concluding a brief but symbolically significant run that highlighted his enduring influence in Puerto Rican wrestling despite his age. This period also saw Starr leveraging his experience to mentor younger talents and orchestrate faction-based storylines, solidifying his role as a key creative force in WWC events through 2004. Throughout 2002–2004, Starr's activities bridged his prior success in IWA—where he and Víctor the Bodyguard held the IWA Tag Team Championship from April 13, 2002, for 91 days—with his WWC resurgence, including strap matches against Ricky Banderas and alliances that fueled territorial rivalries. These efforts underscored his adaptability, though his direct involvement in promotional operations remained secondary to on-ring pursuits and managerial duties rather than formal ownership.

Independent promotions, alliances, and management roles (2005–2019)

Following the conclusion of his ownership involvement, Chicky Starr shifted focus to performing and managerial duties within Puerto Rican promotions, notably reviving the Starr Corporation heel faction in the (WWC). On January 6, 2005, Starr teamed with Castillo Jr. as Starr Corporation to defeat the reigning champions and capture the WWC World Tag Team Championship, a reign that lasted 10 days before they dropped the titles. This alliance emphasized Starr's role in assembling groups of rule-breaking wrestlers to challenge fan favorites, continuing his long-standing persona through competition and interference in matches. The Starr Corporation persisted into subsequent years, with faction members Chris Joel and Huracán Castillo Jr. winning the WWC World Tag Team Championship on August 13, 2006, under Starr's guidance. Starr himself participated sporadically in matches and managed protégés, leveraging the group for storyline dominance in WWC events. Throughout the and , he formed temporary alliances with other heels, including tag partnerships that advanced faction warfare narratives, such as a 2012 bout alongside Huracán Castillo against opponents in WWC cards. By the mid-2010s, Starr increasingly emphasized over in-ring action, using platforms like his signature "Chicky's Sport Shop" segments to promote allied wrestlers and criticize rivals, solidifying his influence in WWC's territorial rivalries without formal ownership. These roles extended to occasional appearances on Puerto Rico's broader , where he scouted and backed emerging heels, though primary activity remained tied to WWC structures.

Recent activities and ongoing storylines (2020–present)

In 2022, Starr resumed a managerial role in (WWC), aligning with wrestler Gilbert following a backstage reunion depicted on WWC programming in . This partnership featured prominently at WWC's Septiembre Negro event, where Gilbert, accompanied by Starr, competed in a against a former ally amid a storyline of betrayal and faction tensions. Starr returned to in-ring competition at WWC's 50th Aniversario on , 2023, defeating social media influencer and boxer Gallo The Producer in a singles billed as a between a modern celebrity and a wrestling legend. The bout, held at Coliseo Rubén Rodríguez in , highlighted Starr's enduring persona and drew attention for bridging generational divides in Puerto Rican wrestling narratives. On July 13, 2024, Starr appeared at a Caribbean Pro Wrestling event in , where he intervened decisively in matches, "cleaning house" by overpowering opponents and asserting dominance in a promotional emphasizing his veteran status. By mid-2025, Starr reignited a long-standing with Invader #1, culminating in a public face-to-face confrontation on June 11 after a decade-long hiatus, teasing a potential "" in ongoing independent promotions. This escalated with verbal exchanges, including Starr's public warnings and criticisms of Invader #1 during a appearance, framing the rivalry as a clash of Puerto Rican wrestling icons unresolved since prior decades. A scheduled encounter was set for July 20, 2025, at Estadio Sola Morales in , under IWA , continuing the storyline's focus on personal grudges and legacy validation.

Managerial career

Formation of key stables like Starr Corporation

In the late 1990s, Chicky Starr transitioned more prominently into a managerial role within World Wrestling Council (WWC), forming the Starr Corporation as a heel stable to dominate tag team and faction warfare. The group debuted prominently on February 28, 1999, when Starr and his enforcer Victor the Bodyguard defeated Ricky Santana and Glamour Boy Shane to win the vacant WWC World Tag Team Championship in a tournament final held in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico. This victory marked the stable's immediate impact, with Starr leveraging his in-ring experience alongside Victor's power-based style to establish control through aggressive tactics and interference. The Starr Corporation expanded beyond its core, incorporating wrestlers such as Angel Rodriguez to bolster its roster and pursue multiple titles. Starr positioned as a corporate-like entity intent on monopolizing championships and undermining fan favorites, reflecting his long-standing persona rooted in cunning promotion and alliances with imposing talents. By early 2000, following Starr's departure from WWC to join International Wrestling Association (IWA) on March 9, the stable reformed under his management, continuing its dominance with title pursuits including defenses against teams like Los Intocables. This formation exemplified Starr's approach to stables as extensions of his influence, blending personal wrestling involvement with oversight of protégés to create sustained rivalries and draw crowds in Puerto Rican promotions. The group's success in capturing and holding belts underscored Starr's strategic of loyal, physically dominant members capable of executing his directives in high-stakes matches.

Notable protégés and feuds managed

During his managerial tenure, Chicky Starr prominently led the Starr Corporation stable in the (WWC), where he guided a roster of wrestlers including Víctor the , Castillo Jr., Chris Joel, Dennis Rodriguez, and Noel Rodriguez in territorial dominance efforts. These protégés, often positioned as enforcers under Starr's direction, participated in and multi-man matches that advanced the faction's agenda, such as Castillo Jr. and Starr's successful pursuit of the WWC World Tag Team Championship. Starr's management emphasized ruthless tactics, leveraging the group's numbers to target established babyfaces and secure territorial control in Puerto Rican promotions during the late and early . Starr also managed international talent like during WWC appearances, utilizing the Madman's reputation for violence to escalate high-stakes confrontations against local heroes. This partnership amplified Starr's role in orchestrating brutal segments, where Butcher's fork-wielding attacks were directed at opponents to draw crowd heat and protect Starr Corporation interests. Additionally, storyline familial ties extended to "Rambo" , portrayed as a cousin, whom Chicky managed in bouts and personal rivalries, including defenses against teams like the Batten Twins in 1988-1989 events. In terms of feuds managed, Starr directed sustained campaigns against the Invader lineage, notably attempting to recruit Invader #3 into his fold before escalating to matches and assaults involving multiple members to neutralize the threat, as seen in 1988 WWC Anniversary programming. These rivalries often featured coordinated beatdowns, with Starr barking orders from ringside to overwhelm Invader #1 or #3, aiming to dismantle the veteran faction's influence and position his as WWC's premier unit. Similar managerial oversight applied to broader anti-Colón angles, where protégés executed interference and post-match ambushes to prolong hostilities with and allies, sustaining box office draws through 2001. Starr's approach prioritized numerical superiority and , crediting his guidance for elevating mid-card talents into credible threats against promotion icons.

Impact on faction warfare in Puerto Rican wrestling

Chicky Starr's managerial oversight of stables like the Starr Corporation profoundly shaped faction warfare in Puerto Rican wrestling, particularly within the (WWC) and International Wrestling Association (IWA), by establishing dominant alliances that provoked counter-coalitions among babyfaces. Active from around 2000 onward, the Starr Corporation emphasized coordinated attacks, interference tactics, and multi-man brawls, shifting emphasis from solo rivalries to organized group conflicts reminiscent of territorial power struggles. This approach amplified attendance at events featuring stable clashes, as heels under Starr's guidance targeted established figures, forcing alliances such as those involving the Colon family in WWC to combat the Corporation's incursions. The stable's championship successes underscored its disruptive force, including the IWA Puerto Rico Tag Team Championship win by Starr and Víctor the Bodyguard on March 23, 2001, which ignited retaliatory feuds and elevated tag divisions into faction battlegrounds. In WWC, the Corporation's involvement in tag title reigns, such as alongside Huracán Castillo Jr. in 2004–2005, led to extended storylines marked by betrayals and invasions, where heels systematically undermined face dominance, thereby institutionalizing stable warfare as a core narrative device. These dynamics not only prolonged high-stakes encounters but also influenced booking across promotions, encouraging reciprocal stable formations to maintain competitive parity. Starr's earlier managerial efforts in the , including alliances with imports like and Steve Strong, laid groundwork for this evolution by introducing foreign units that challenged local heroes, fostering a culture of factional opposition integral to Puerto Rican promotions' survival amid competition from U.S. territories. His strategies prioritized through promos and ambushes, which escalated tensions and drew crowds to resolve inter-group vendettas, ultimately embedding faction dominance as a staple that sustained fan engagement in an era of promotional fragmentation.

Championships and accomplishments

Primary title reigns and defenses

Chicky Starr captured the on January 18, 2003, defeating Carlito during the Superestrellas de la event in . This marked his sole reign with the promotion's premier singles title, lasting 14 days amid ongoing storylines involving interference from his Starr Corporation . The brief tenure featured limited televised defenses, with Starr retaining against preliminary challengers reliant on faction tactics rather than clean victories, reflecting his persona's emphasis on managerial dominance over in-ring prowess. Starr dropped the title to Carly Colón on February 1, 2003, in , in a match highlighted by Colón's counter to Starr's alliance-backed strategies. No further successful defenses were recorded during the reign, underscoring its transitional role in elevating Colón's profile while capitalizing on Starr's veteran status for short-term generation. This outing aligned with Starr's pattern of opportunistic title pursuits, prioritizing narrative impact over prolonged holds.

Luchas de Apuestas victories and stakes

Chicky Starr achieved several victories in luchas de apuestas matches, primarily within (WWC) events, where opponents wagered their hair or gimmicks against his own stakes. These high-stakes encounters underscored his role as a premier , often leveraging interference or time-limit stipulations to secure shaves or revelations. On September 20, 1987, Starr defeated Invader I in a 15-minute time-limit match pitting Invader's potential retirement against Starr's ; by surviving the duration and knocking out Invader, Starr claimed the right to shave his opponent's head, marking an early career highlight in escalating their personal rivalry. In 1997 at , wrestling under the masked persona Golden Boy, Starr overcame La Ley in a mask versus bout, retaining his disguise while forcing La Ley to receive a haircut, though the victory did little to conceal his identity long-term amid ongoing storylines. Starr continued his success into later years, defeating Mr. Mac via pinfall in a hair versus hair match on March 7, 2009, at WWC's La Hora de la Verdad, aided by a distraction that enabled usage, resulting in Mac's shave. In 2011, Starr bested Invader #1—echoing their prior clashes—in another hair versus hair stipulation, reinforcing his dominance in personal grudge matches against the Invader family.

Other honors and records

Chicky Starr secured the WWC World Junior Heavyweight Championship on three separate occasions, demonstrating versatility in the lighter weight division. His first reign began on March 5, 1986, in , following a victory over Invader III; he lost it shortly after on March 19 but regained it on April 12, 1986, in Caguas. The third reign started on June 24, 1989, ending on July 29 of that year against Super Médico I. In competition, Starr achieved significant success partnering primarily with , capturing the WWC World Tag Team Championship multiple times and contributing to a combined total of seven reigns as a unit. Additionally, the duo won the WWC North American Tag Team Championship by defeating #1 and #3. These accomplishments highlight Starr's proficiency in cooperative formats beyond singles competition.

Legacy and influence

Contributions to Puerto Rican wrestling style and storytelling

Chicky Starr advanced Puerto Rican wrestling storytelling by leveraging talk segments to construct intricate feuds and character arcs, particularly through his 1980s (WWC) program "Chicky Starr's Sport Shop," which functioned as a weekly platform for interviews, confrontations, and plot advancements akin to U.S. counterparts like Piper's Pit but tailored to local sensibilities with amplified to incite . These episodes often escalated angles via on-air assaults or verbal barbs, as seen in a 1988 recap where Invader #3 attacked Starr on the show, setting up high-profile grudge matches and extending narratives beyond isolated bouts into serialized drama. This format influenced subsequent promotions by demonstrating how non-match content could sustain viewer engagement across television cycles, fostering multi-week storylines centered on betrayal and redemption that mirrored structures prevalent in Puerto Rican media. In terms of wrestling style, Starr's persona emphasized psychological manipulation over pure athleticism, popularizing promos that blended boastful arrogance, cultural references, and provocative to polarize audiences and amplify emotional stakes in matches. His deliveries, frequently in Spanish with impassioned delivery post-betrayals or losses, exemplified how verbal could humanize antagonists, drawing parallels to real-life rivalries and encouraging fan investment through perceived authenticity. For instance, a 1982 Chicago Promotions TV promo following a tag-team abandonment showcased Starr rallying sympathy-turned-vengeance narratives, which informed the hard-edged, brawl-heavy Puerto Rican style where in-ring violence served as payoff to built-up personal animosities. This approach contrasted with more stunt-focused Mexican influences, prioritizing causal chains of cause-and-effect in feuds—such as mentor-protégé turnarounds—that rewarded long-term booking continuity. Starr's managerial innovations further shaped faction-based narratives, introducing layered hierarchies and internal conflicts within groups like the Starr Corporation, which portrayed wrestling promotions as battlegrounds for dominance rather than mere athletic contests. By orchestrating interferences and alliances that blurred loyalty lines, he contributed to a style where integrated group psychology, evident in WWC angles involving protégés turning against him, thereby modeling how stables could sustain prolonged wars with evolving motivations. These elements entrenched a distinctly Puerto Rican hybrid: U.S.-style promos fused with intensity, yielding resilient narratives that withstood roster changes and emphasized resilient resilience as a core trope.

Cultural and media portrayals

In the 2024 film Las Super Estrellas de la Lucha Libre, directed by and starring Espinal as , Chicky Starr is portrayed by actor Alexis Rosado as a central antagonist and manager figure emblematic of 1980s Puerto Rican wrestling rivalries. The movie, inspired by the iconic television program of the same name that aired wrestling matches and storylines, depicts Starr's role in intensifying factional conflicts and personas during World Wrestling Council's peak era, highlighting his contributions to dramatic storytelling through promos and stable leadership. Screened at events like the New York Latino Film Festival, the film underscores Starr's depiction as a cunning, verbally aggressive promoter of villainy, reflecting his real-life influence on local audiences' engagement with as a form of escapist theater. Starr has been referenced in Puerto Rican as a symbol of cultural fandom, notably in the piece "Chicky Starr es mi líder espiritual" ("Chicky Starr is my spiritual leader"), which satirically elevates his to a position of ironic reverence amid the era's wrestling mania. This work, featured in analyses of contemporary Puerto Rican spoken-word traditions, illustrates Starr's permeation into non-wrestling arts, portraying him as an archetypal figure of charismatic antagonism that resonated beyond arenas into everyday expressions of identity and humor. Media portrayals often emphasize Starr's evolution from wrestler to manager, with appearances on programs like the satirical Pa' Que Tú Lo Sépas in 2010 casting him in segments blending wrestling lore with political commentary, such as discussions on electoral filings. These depictions reinforce his public image as a provocative, unapologetic personality whose promos and feuds shaped perceptions of and in Puerto Rican , though archival footage from wrestling broadcasts remains the primary visual record rather than scripted dramatizations.

Long-term business and promotional impact

Chicky Starr's managerial innovations, particularly through stables like the Starr Corporation in the (WWC), influenced promotional booking practices by emphasizing multi-wrestler factions to extend feuds and maximize event card depth, a that promotions adopted to enhance storyline longevity and fan retention. His "Chicky's Sport Shop" segment, a weekly WWC television feature from the onward, mirrored confrontational interview formats in other territories and served as a key tool for advancing narratives, often sparking real-time audience reactions that translated to increased event hype and attendance for Capitol Sports Promotions-run shows. In the early , Starr co-headlined events for the Americas Wrestling Federation (AWF), collaborating with figures like to draw on established rivalries for ticket sales amid WWC's internal shifts following high-profile incidents. This versatility extended to the International Wrestling Association (IWA), where his continued portrayals from the late 1990s supported the promotion's model as a WWC alternative, leveraging veteran star power to stabilize rosters and sustain operations in a fragmented market. Starr's advisory input to modern promoters on narrative-driven booking further perpetuated his indirect influence on event profitability, prioritizing character conflicts over athletic showcases to mirror successful territorial eras.

Controversies

Heel gimmicks, promos, and accusations of insensitivity

Chicky Starr cultivated a characterized by arrogance and elitism, portraying himself as a wealthy, sophisticated who derided the working-class ethos of opponents like , often through his management of the Starr Corporation featuring international talent. This emphasized cultural and class antagonism, with Starr adopting flashy attire and a condescending demeanor to contrast the heroic, everyman appeal of local stars in (WWC) events during the 1980s. His promos, delivered on the weekly "Sport Shop" interview segment akin to Roddy Piper's Pit, amplified this role by unleashing vitriolic attacks designed to provoke intense fan backlash, including repeated insults toward Colón such as labeling him a "monkey" and invoking other derogatory racial terms in Spanish to undermine Puerto Rican national pride. These segments, prominent in WWC programming around 1989, positioned Starr as an unrepentant villain who mocked heroic figures to incite riots and sell tickets, solidifying his status as one of the territory's premier heat magnets. While effective in drawing massive crowds and establishing Starr as Puerto Rico's most despised , these promos have drawn accusations of insensitivity and from wrestling observers, who highlight the use of ethnic slurs as crossing into offensive territory beyond standard provocation. Accounts from fans and historians describe the content as "blatantly racist" in modern contexts, though contemporaries viewed it as calculated exaggeration to fuel feuds rather than genuine , with no documented evidence of Starr endorsing such views personally outside performance.

Business disputes and promotional rivalries

In 1991, Chicky Starr departed from the (WWC), the dominant Puerto Rican promotion controlled by the Colón family, to co-found the (AWF) alongside and Hércules Ayala. This move initiated a direct competitive rivalry, as the AWF sought to challenge WWC's territorial monopoly by booking alternative events and attracting talent disaffected with WWC's structure. The split was particularly contentious given Starr's long tenure as a key figure in WWC storylines, where he had managed stables opposing , potentially straining relations with promotion leadership over booking control and revenue shares. The AWF's operations exacerbated inter-promotional tensions in Puerto Rico's insular wrestling scene, where promotions frequently engaged in talent raids and public disparagement to secure audiences and television slots. Starr's involvement leveraged his drawing power from WWC feuds, such as his protracted angle with Invader #1, to build AWF cards, though the venture faced challenges from WWC's established infrastructure and fan loyalty. By the mid-1990s, as promotional wars intensified with the emergence of the in 1994, Starr transitioned to IWA events, further embodying the fluid yet fractious talent movement that characterized Puerto Rican wrestling's business landscape, often marked by contract poaching and reciprocal blacklisting. Starr's later affiliations, including stints with IWA and brief returns to WWC, underscored ongoing rivalries, as seen in his exit from IWA amid broader industry shifts toward independent alliances. These maneuvers highlighted systemic disputes over performer versus promotional loyalty, with Starr positioning himself as an opportunistic figure navigating—and sometimes fueling—territorial conflicts without formal litigation but through high-profile defections that disrupted booking stability.

Personal feuds and backstage conflicts

Chicky Starr's most notable personal feud stemmed from his fractured relationship with former mentor Invader I (José González), whom Starr accused of blocking his ascent to the Puerto Rican Heavyweight Championship in late 1985. This resentment, rooted in perceived professional sabotage, prompted Starr to publicly challenge Invader I to a high-stakes match on the final TV taping of that year, escalating into a violent rivalry featuring stipulation bouts like a 15-minute time limit retirement versus hair contest. The animosity persisted across promotions, with Starr later aligning against Invader I in 1997 by teaming with after the latter's betrayal of his brother. Starr's management of placed him in proximity to one of Puerto Rican wrestling's darkest backstage incidents: Brody's fatal stabbing by Invader I on July 16, 1988, in Bayamón. Starr has described the evening as deeply unpleasant, recounting Brody's final altercation as a confrontation with rather than wrestlers, which left Brody isolated and vulnerable in the locker room showers prior to the attack. In interviews, Starr has linked the to the broader decline of the territory's popularity, arguing it shattered fan trust and attendance in an industry already rife with between scripted violence and real peril. No direct involvement by Starr in the incident has been alleged, but the event intensified existing tensions within the roster, including his ongoing rivalry with Invader I. More recently, in , Starr voiced public upset over an event honoring , signaling unresolved grudges from decades of competition and perceived favoritism in legacy recognitions. These conflicts underscore how Starr's intertwined personal betrayals with the volatile backstage dynamics of Puerto Rican wrestling, where promotional politics and violent angles often spilled into genuine animosities requiring police intervention for fan altercations.

Personal life

Early life, education, and entry into wrestling

José Aníbal Laureano Colón, professionally known as Chicky Starr, was born on June 24, 1958, in . Little is documented about his formal , though in a 2022 interview, he described a childhood marked by frequent involvement in schoolyard fights starting from the first grade, which cultivated an early affinity for physical confrontations. Starr entered at age 15, debuting in 1973 at Parque del Barrio Almirante Sur in —a locale he later revisited in 2023 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the event. His initial foray aligned with the local independent scene, where he honed skills amid Puerto Rico's burgeoning wrestling culture dominated by promotions like Capitol Sports Promotions. Early mentorship came from Invader #1, who provided guidance and recognized Starr's raw potential as a performer. By 1976, he had established a foothold in structured circuits, transitioning from preliminary bouts to more prominent roles.

Family background and relationships

José Aníbal Laureano Colón, known professionally as Chicky Starr, was born on June 24, 1958, in the Algarrobo neighborhood of , into an economically modest family that faced significant hardships during his early years. Laureano is married to Leslie Marie Santiago, who has publicly supported him through health challenges, including a 2021 hospitalization. He is the father of multiple children and has grandchildren, as referenced in his personal reflections on family life and legacy.

Political affiliations and public stances

In 2010, Chicky Starr announced his intention to run for a seat as a representative by accumulation with the New Progressive Party (PNP), the pro-statehood political party in , ahead of the 2012 elections. By October 2012, however, Starr publicly switched his affiliation to the Popular Democratic Party (PPD), which advocates for maintaining Puerto Rico's status with the . Starr's endorsement of the PPD came amid criticism of the incumbent PNP administration under Governor Luis Fortuño, whom he accused of governing primarily for the wealthy elite while neglecting Puerto Rico's poor and working-class residents. In November 2012, he urged supporters to cast a full vote for PPD candidates across the ballot, framing the switch as a rejection of perceived favoritism toward a small group over broader societal needs. No further public political activities or candidacies by Starr have been documented beyond this period.

Health challenges and current status

In May 2018, Starr experienced severe pain in his left leg, which turned black, leading to hospitalization and a two-week stay in the at Doctor's Hospital in ; his condition worsened after initial discharge, complicating his recovery. On January 26, 2021, he was admitted to following post-operative bleeding, requiring blood transfusions and described by his wife, Leslie Santiago, as weak and inconsistent in . In early September 2025, Starr contracted a severe that confined him to bed, sparking widespread rumors of his death among fans and media in . He reemerged publicly on September 3, 2025, in an interview with Fernán Vélez on Wapa TV's Lo Sé Todo, clarifying that the illness had been serious but not fatal, and attributing the rumors to . As of October 2025, at age 67, Starr remains alive and engaged in public activities, including live streams and posts on his page promoting wrestling events and responding to rivals, indicating ongoing involvement in the industry despite past health setbacks. No active wrestling matches are reported, suggesting a shift to managerial or media roles.

References

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