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"Superstar" Billy Graham
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For the American Christian evangelist, see Billy Graham. For the American professional wrestling manager, see Billy Gram.

Key Information

Eldridge Wayne Coleman Jr.[4] (June 7, 1943 – May 17, 2023), better known by his ring name "Superstar" Billy Graham, was an American professional wrestler. He gained recognition for his tenure as the WWWF Heavyweight Champion from 1977 to 1978. He was a three-time world champion in major professional wrestling promotions. As an award-winning bodybuilder, he was a training partner and close friend of Arnold Schwarzenegger. He was most remembered for revolutionizing the interview and physique aspects of the professional wrestling industry, and for his charismatic performance style.[5]

Early life

[edit]

Coleman was born into a working-class family in Phoenix, Arizona, on June 7, 1943.[6] His father Eldridge was from Mississippi and drove phone poles into the ground for a power company but developed multiple sclerosis and was reassigned to light office work.[4][6] His mother Juanita, who claimed Cherokee ancestry, was from Arkansas.[6][7] Coleman was attracted to weight lifting in the fifth grade.[8] As a teenager, he was an avid reader of bodybuilding magazines, his idols being Steve Reeves and John Grimek.[9] As a teenager, he became a devout Christian and traveled to religious revivals where he incorporated feats of strength into his sermons.[8] Wayne was often beaten by his father due to his jealousy of Wayne's physique, but one day, he was able to yank the leather strap from his father's fingers; his mother also hit him with a brick on his head "because he was too big to hit with anything else".[4]

Coleman attended North High School, where he was a track and field star and a shot put champion.[8][10] He also dabbled in amateur and professional boxing, participating in the 1959 Golden Gloves.[11]

Coleman played for the Waterbury Orbits of the Atlantic Coast Football League in 1966.[12] He was a member of the Oakland Raiders of the American Football League in 1967 but did not play in a game.[13][14] In 1968, Coleman tried out for the Canadian Football League's Calgary Stampeders, but he was traded to the Montreal Alouettes and played in only five games while there.[8] He played for the Las Vegas Cowboys of the Continental Football League in 1969.[12] He also worked as a debt collector.[7] In between football engagements,[citation needed] he worked as a bouncer at a bar in Phoenix.[15][16]

Bodybuilding career

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In 1961, Coleman was the winner of the West Coast division of the Mr. Teenage America bodybuilding contest (Frank Zane won the East Coast division),[4] and his photo appeared soon after in Bob Hoffman's Strength and Fitness magazine.[2] Coleman began to train intensively in 1968 at Gold's Gym in Santa Monica, where he worked out with Dave Draper, Franco Columbu and Arnold Schwarzenegger. At this time he was able to bench press 605 lbs (the world record, held by his friend Pat Casey, was 616 lbs).[17] One of Coleman's photo shoots with Schwarzenegger was featured that year in Joe Weider's Muscle Fitness magazine.[5]

When Coleman decided to become a professional wrestler two years later, he had the inspiration of marrying wrestling to bodybuilding. As a wrestler, he weight-trained continually, and in 1975 prepared for the World Bodybuilding Guild's Pro Mr. America contest in New York City, where his 22-inch biceps won first place in the Best Developed Arms division.[18][19] At the peak of his wrestling career in 1977, Coleman weighed 275 lbs. From 1978, he gained more weight and in 1980, at 325 lbs, he took part in the World's Strongest Man competition in Great Gorge, New Jersey. He finished seventh in this contest despite injuring himself in one of the events.[2] On December 6 of the same year, Coleman hosted the U.S. Invitational Powerlifting Championship in Phoenix, Arizona.[20]

Professional wrestling career

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Early years (1969–1972)

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In 1969, Coleman was encouraged by football player and occasional professional wrestler Bob Lueck to train with Stu Hart for the latter's Stampede Wrestling promotion.[8][21] He trained under Hart in Calgary[10] before debuting on January 16, 1970, in a match with Dan Kroffat.[22] After wrestling briefly under his real name, Coleman traveled back to the United States in May, wrestling for a few months with Dr. Jerry Graham, Brick Darrow, Rick Cahill and Ron Pritchard in Arizona before he and Jerry joined the National Wrestling Alliance's Los Angeles promotion (run by Mike LeBell) as a tag team the following August. He changed his ring name to Billy Graham, as a tribute to the famous evangelist of the same name.[4][5][3] Jerry also told him to dye his hair blonde with a bottle of Clairol.[7] While wrestling in Championship Wrestling from Florida, the name served both as his ring name and to make him the (kayfabe) youngest brother of Jerry and the other Graham Brothers (Eddie and Luke).[2][16][23]

In late December, Graham went north to join Roy Shire's NWA San Francisco promotion, working with Pat Patterson (his tag-team partner), Ray Stevens, Cyclone Negro, and Peter Maivia.[7] Graham's nearly two-year run in central California included a stint wrestling in Hawaii in February and March 1972. It was during his Californian period that Graham developed a new aspect of his character; before a match he would stage an arm wrestling contest, encouraging public challenges to his title of "Arm Wrestling Champion of the World".[24][25]

American Wrestling Association (1972–1975)

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During his time with the AWA, Graham feuded with Gagne, The Crusher, The Bruiser, Wahoo McDaniel, Billy Robinson, Ken Patera and Ivan Koloff, the latter becoming his tag-team partner.[2] By this time, Graham was integrating into his performances not only arm wrestling contests but also weightlifting challenges (mainly involving ex-Olympian Ken Patera) and posing routines.[26] One of his most memorable and violent feuds was against McDaniel, with whom he wrestled numerous bouts between 1973 and 1974.[27] In the AWA, he also began his career feud with "Polish Power" Ivan Putski;[28] the feud would also occur when anti-Polish phrases were being frequently spouted by Archie Bunker against his irreligious Polish-American son-in-law Michael Stivic on lead American television series All In The Family.

In September and October 1974, Graham took leave from the AWA to join the International Wrestling Enterprise's "Super Wide Series" tour of Japan, where he fought such local stars as Mighty Inoue, Animal Hamaguchi and Rusher Kimura. Following his return from Japan, Graham formed a tag team with Dusty Rhodes. He left the AWA and returned to the NWA in May 1975, signing up with Red Bastien's Dallas-based promotion for five months and taking the local "Brass Knucks" title from Mad Dog Vachon on August 8. For most of October, Graham worked for the Mid Atlantic promotion in North Carolina, standing in for Ric Flair, who had just been injured in a plane crash.[29]

World Wide Wrestling Federation and return to NWA (1975–1976)

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Graham made his in–ring debut in the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF) on October 25, 1975, in a tag team match at the Boston Garden, in which he and Spiros Arion defeated WWWF Heavyweight Champion Bruno Sammartino and Dominic De Nucci.[30] During this time, The Grand Wizard became Graham's manager.[8]

A brief contract with the NWA in Houston, Texas, followed from June to August 1976, after which Graham went on his second tour of Japan, this time accompanied by Ivan Koloff. He feuded with Antonio Inoki during this Japanese run. After returning to America, Graham and Koloff made an unsuccessful attempt to launch their own wrestling promotion in Southern California.[31] In November, on the invitation of Dusty Rhodes, Graham joined the NWA promotion in Florida, beating Rhodes for the Florida heavyweight title on November 22 at the West Palm Beach Auditorium. His work in this period included occasional visits to St Louis, Missouri, where he took on NWA World Heavyweight Champion Harley Race.[32]

Return to WWWF (1977–1978)

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A bloody battle between Graham (left) and Bruno Sammartino (right), circa 1978

Graham defeated Bruno Sammartino for the WWWF Heavyweight Championship on April 30, 1977, in Baltimore, Maryland, after putting his feet on the ropes.[33][34][23] During his reign, he wrestled across America and Japan, facing challengers such as former champion Bruno Sammartino, Jack Brisco, Dusty Rhodes, Pedro Morales, Don Muraco, Mil Mascaras, Strong Kobayashi, Carlos Rocha and Riki Choshu.[2][23] On January 25, 1978, in Miami, Florida, at the Orange Bowl football stadium, Graham wrestled against then-NWA World Heavyweight Champion Harley Race in a WWWF Heavyweight Championship vs. NWA World Heavyweight Championship unification match which ended in a one-hour time-limit draw.[8]

Graham eventually lost the title to Bob Backlund on February 20, 1978.[23] Another feud Graham had as champion was with Dusty Rhodes, which culminated in a Texas Bullrope match.[16] His confrontations with Rhodes continued after Graham had been forced to drop the belt to Backlund.[2] Rhodes himself, a long-time friend of Graham's, recalled these matches with Graham in 1978 as among the most exciting and memorable of his career.[35]

Return to NWA and hiatus (1978–1982)

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Disillusioned by the loss of his belt,[36] Graham left the WWWF in December 1978 and accepted an offer to join Paul Boesch's promotion in Houston, Texas, lending himself out for other NWA events in California and Florida as well.[2] In April 1979, he embarked on his third IWA tour of Japan. On October 8, Graham became the Continental Wrestling Association (CWA) World Champion, defeating Pat McGuinness. On November 8, Graham lost the belt to Jerry Lawler in Lexington, Kentucky.[37]

In 1980, he only wrestled in Houston[38] and focused more on strongman competitions. During this time he shaved his head bald and grew a beard and moustache.

Graham wrestled only three matches (one in Windsor, Ontario, Canada and two in Los Angeles) in 1981, and was reported to have died on November 8.[39] However, that report was false and started by Dusty Rhodes as a joke.[16] He also worked in Phoenix for pipe sprinklers. In 1982, he spent some time competing in Japan and the United States, adding some martial arts techniques to his repertoire.[19]

Second return to WWF (1982–1983)

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In 1983, Graham radically altered his look and persona as part of a return to the WWF

Graham returned to the now-renamed World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in August 1982. He debuted in the promotion with an entirely new look: leaner, with a bald head and mustache, and sporting black karate pants.[16] Graham later stated that he wanted to retire the "Superstar" character out of frustration with Vince McMahon Sr. for not letting him become a fan favorite.[40] After his return, he attacked Backlund, destroying his championship belt.[19] He challenged Backlund for the WWF Championship, but was unable to win the title and left the promotion in April 1983.[16][19]

Return to AWA and third return to NWA (1983–1986)

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Graham (top) wrestling Pedro Morales (bottom), circa 1983

Graham signed up with the AWA again in October 1983, and by the following year, he had regained his earlier body weight. In April 1984, he began his NWA run with Championship Wrestling from Florida, first as a member of Kevin Sullivan's Army of Darkness and later as the group's opponent after he was tired of Sullivan's abuse of his valet, The Lock, and stopped Sullivan from beating her at ringside.[16][failed verification] In November, Graham joined Jim Crockett Promotions (Mid-Atlantic Wrestling) in North Carolina, working for Paul Jones in his feud against Jimmy Valiant.[citation needed] It was during this stint, in the summer of 1985, that Graham bulked up further, and returned to his tie-dyed look, growing a full goatee and dyeing the mustache blond.[16] His theme music during this time was "Bad to the Bone" by George Thorogood.

Third return to the WWF (1986–1989)

[edit]

Graham returned to the WWF one more time in June 1986, now as a fan favorite[citation needed].[36] After a few appearances, it was diagnosed in August that he required a hip replacement. The footage of Graham's hip replacement surgery was shown on WWF TV on September 27 as a means of promoting his comeback.[36][failed verification] He returned in mid-1987, but the strain on his hip and ankles proved to be too much. In Syracuse on October 27, the One Man Gang supposedly retired him from active competition permanently with a running splash on the concrete floor after Graham's win over Butch Reed.[41] In this incident, aired on the November 14, 1987, episode of Superstars, Don Muraco came to Graham's aid, and Graham subsequently became Muraco's manager. Graham's last wrestling match, also against Butch Reed and at 44 years of age, actually took place on November 7, in St Louis, Missouri.[36][failed verification] Over the next year, in between bouts of surgery, Graham worked for the WWF as a commentator.[5][16]

Fourth return to WWE (2004–2009)

[edit]
Graham in 2008

On March 14, 2004, Graham was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2004, the night before WrestleMania XX, by then-World Heavyweight Champion Triple H, whom Graham had helped inspire to become a professional wrestler.[2] Graham later sold his WWE Hall of Fame ring to purchase anti-rejection medications to help treat his liver transplant.[42]

Several months later, Graham joined WWE on a swing of nine televised events where he was interviewed by Jonathan Coachman (on December 28) before performing a skit which ended with Coachman getting knocked out.[2] On February 25, 2005, Graham appeared at another live event and was again interviewed by Coachman before knocking him out.[2] Three days later, Graham appeared on Raw, where he encouraged Randy Orton to do something to make himself notable.[43] On October 3 at WWE Homecoming, Graham participated in a Legends Ceremony with 24 other WWE legends.[44] On the January 23, 2006, episode of Raw, he promoted his book and DVD.[45] Graham parted ways with WWE in 2009.[46]

Fifth return to WWE (2015–2023)

[edit]

In November 2015, Graham announced that he had signed a legends contract (a long-term deal to make infrequent, non-wrestling appearances) in a Facebook post.[47] He signed a renewed five-year contract in 2021.[48]

Legacy

[edit]
Graham's look influenced generations of other professional wrestlers (1975)

"Superstar" Billy Graham is widely regarded as a pioneering figure in professional wrestling, whose flamboyant persona and promotional style had a lasting influence on the industry. Wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter characterized his impact as foundational, stating, "If it wasn't for Billy Graham, this industry would be so much different than it is."[49] Roberta Morgan, in her 1979 kayfabe book Main Event, observed that Graham's popularity endured despite his status as a villainous character, attributing it to his "skill, strength, and colorful personality".[citation needed] During his tenure with the WWWF, Graham headlined 19 sold-out events at Madison Square Garden, the promotion's primary venue at the time.[50]

Graham's distinctive approach to professional wrestling served as a blueprint for future performers. His heavily muscled physique, charismatic promos, and fashion-forward presentation were emulated by several prominent wrestlers, including Ric Flair, Austin Idol, Steve Austin, Scott Steiner, Triple H, Hulk Hogan, Jesse Ventura and Randy Savage.[2][16][23] A hallmark of his interview style was his frequent use of the term "brother", a verbal tic rooted in his early exposure to evangelical revival meetings, where the term was commonly used among attendees.[4] This linguistic quirk became a fixture in wrestling vernacular, later popularized by Hogan and adopted by many others in the profession.[15]

Later in life, Graham became an outspoken critic of steroid use in professional sports, frequently addressing the health risks associated with performance-enhancing drugs. Drawing from his own experiences, he delivered lectures to young athletes and participated in public discussions on the issue.[10][23] His autobiography, Tangled Ropes, was published by WWE on January 10, 2006, offering a candid account of his career and personal challenges.[citation needed] WWE also released a biographical documentary, 20 Years Too Soon: The "Superstar" Billy Graham Story,[citation needed] and a follow-up feature, "Superstar" Billy Graham: Full Disclosure, was issued in 2013 by Seriocity Productions.[51]

Disputes with the McMahons

[edit]

In the early 1990s, U.S. federal agents were investigating Dr. George Zahorian, a Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, physician who had been dispensing anabolic steroids and other drugs to wrestlers at WWF events.[52] In 1991, Dr. Zahorian was convicted under the U.S. federal Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988 which prohibited the prescription of steroids for non-therapeutic purposes. This led to WWF owner Vince McMahon Jr., who admitted to being a steroid user himself, being put on trial on charges of steroid distribution in 1994.[53] The trial concluded with McMahon's acquittal. During this time, Graham personally sued Zahorian and the WWF, claiming that they had forced him to take steroids to maintain his position in the company. His lawsuit was unsuccessful, partly because he had been using steroids for a decade preceding his WWF debut.[46] Recalling the lawsuit on a 2003 episode of WWE Confidential, he attributed the litigation to his bitterness and claimed that he was an innovator of steroid use in the organization.[54]

Graham went on a public awareness campaign regarding the dangers of steroids during this time, including an appearance with McMahon on The Phil Donahue Show in 1992. During the Donahue taping, Graham claimed to have witnessed WWF officials sexually abuse children.[55] McMahon claimed the abuse had never taken place, and Graham later admitted that he made up the allegations, hoping to extort "hush money" out of the WWF.[46] In his autobiography, Graham describes making the allegations as being "my most shameful moment, not only in the wrestling profession, but in my life".[6] Graham wrote an apology to McMahon but received no response until his 2002 liver transplant.[46]

Five years after being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, Graham was released from his consultancy position in WWE. He sold his Hall of Fame ring on eBay to help pay for medical bills[42] and requested that he be entirely removed from the Hall of Fame after Abdullah the Butcher was inducted, complaining that Abdullah had never wrestled in the promotion.[56]

Graham spoke out against Linda McMahon during her 2010 Senate campaign, claiming that she was distancing herself from the racy programming that she profited from while acting as CEO for WWE.[57] Upon learning that his liver condition had worsened, Graham reached out to apologize to the McMahons, even offering to be a spokesman for Linda McMahon's campaign.[46]

In July 2015, Graham sent a letter to Vince McMahon requesting to take the position of Dusty Rhodes, who had recently died, at NXT. Graham received criticism from fans due to his timing and opportunism. He defended himself, calling his critics "evil subhumans", and compared a possible reconciliation with McMahon to that of long-time WWE critic Bruno Sammartino, who reconciled with McMahon and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2013.[58]

Personal life

[edit]

Family

[edit]

Graham was first married to Shirley Potts.[59][4] He had two children from his marriage to Madelyn Miluso: his daughter Capella was born June 8, 1972[59] and was named after a star Graham read about in the Atlas of the Universe.[59] His son Joey was born March 18, 1975.[60] Joey was born with double pneumonia and an enlarged heart, which was later surgically corrected.[60] Joey's godfather was wrestler Dusty Rhodes.[60] As stated in his autobiography Tangled Ropes, Graham and his third wife Valerie Belkas, whom he married in 1978, were never able to have children.

Health issues

[edit]

After contracting hepatitis C,[7] Graham received a liver transplant in 2002 from a 26-year-old female donor, who had died in a car crash.[61] He had cirrhosis at the time of his transplant. Graham was again hospitalized on May 24, 2006, due to a bowel obstruction from an earlier surgery.[2]

In July 2010, Graham was hospitalized due to liver problems.[3] Afterward, he announced that he probably only had one year left to live without another liver transplant.[3] He reserved a burial spot at the Green Acres cemetery in Scottsdale, Arizona, next to Eddie Guerrero.[46] On March 31, 2011, The Phoenix New Times reported that Graham's doctor, Hector Rodriguez-Luna, acknowledged that Graham's advanced fibrosis may have been early cirrhosis and that he could live for two more years if he took Interferon—a drug to help slow his hepatitis C—and stayed in shape.[46] By 2012, Graham was diagnosed with third-stage liver disease and cirrhosis.[61]

On January 17, 2013, Graham was hospitalized with double pneumonia and possible heart failure.[62] He was re-hospitalized for a liver complication in October 2014.[3]

On August 2, 2016, Graham was hospitalized while undergoing a medical procedure due to internal bleeding; he underwent surgery the next day to identify the cause of the issues.[63]

In June 2022, it was announced that he needed to have his toes amputated due to an infection.[64]

Death

[edit]

Graham was hospitalized in January 2023 as a result of an ear and skull infection that had left him deaf.[65] By April, his condition had worsened; he had lost 80 pounds and was being treated for kidney, heart and lung problems.[66] He died of sepsis and multiple organ failure on May 17, 2023, after having been placed on life support earlier that week.[4]

Championships and accomplishments

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

"Superstar" Billy Graham

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from Grokipedia
Eldridge Wayne Coleman (June 7, 1943 – May 17, 2023), better known by his ring name "Superstar" Billy Graham, was an American professional wrestler celebrated for his imposing physique, charismatic delivery, and innovative showmanship that influenced generations of performers. Born in , Graham transitioned from to wrestling in the late 1960s, adopting a flamboyant persona featuring colorful tie-dye trunks, feather boas, and boastful promos that broke from the era's stoic norms. His most notable achievement came in 1977 when he defeated to win the WWWF Heavyweight Championship, holding the title for nine months and drawing significant crowds with his character. Graham's style, emphasizing muscular aesthetics and verbal flair, paved the way for larger-than-life figures like and foreshadowed the wrestling boom of the 1980s. In later years, he openly discussed his struggles with steroid-related health issues, including hip replacements and organ failure, advocating against performance-enhancing drugs in the industry based on his personal experiences. Inducted into the in 2004, Graham's legacy endures as a pioneer who blended athleticism with entertainment, though his career was marred by injuries and challenges.

Early Life

Childhood and Family Background

Eldridge Wayne Coleman Jr., later known as "Superstar" Billy Graham, was born on June 7, 1943, in , into a working-class family. His father, Eldridge John Coleman Sr., originally from , worked as a utility lineman erecting power poles for an . His mother, Juanita Bingaman Coleman, hailed from , where she had moved to as a young woman to escape an overbearing father; she served as a homemaker. Coleman was the youngest of four children, with two older sisters named Annette and Joyce, and a half-brother named Vance from his father's prior relationship. The family resided in Phoenix, where Coleman attended North High School. Their household faced economic hardship, exacerbated by the father's later diagnosis of , chronic , and abusive behavior toward his children, including physical discipline that contributed to Coleman's cautious demeanor as a "slow walker." These early circumstances shaped a childhood marked by street fights and a search for outlets beyond family strife, though Coleman later credited his mother's influence and Pentecostal faith exposure for instilling early moral and spiritual foundations amid the instability.

Athletic Foundations in Football and Other Sports

Eldridge Wayne Coleman Jr., who later adopted the "Superstar" Billy Graham, developed his early athletic prowess during high school in , where he attended North High School. There, he distinguished himself in events, particularly throwing disciplines, setting state records in and discus while competing as a teenager. Coleman earned the Arizona state discus championship, leveraging his natural strength and developing physique to excel in these power-based sports. In addition to , Coleman participated in football at the high school level, playing as a lineman, which honed his size and physicality—standing 6 feet 3 inches and weighing around 275 pounds in his professional years. He also ventured into , competing in the 1959 tournament, though his involvement remained brief and did not lead to a sustained career in the sport. These activities laid the groundwork for his later pursuits in strength sports, emphasizing raw power and endurance over technical finesse. Following high school, Coleman's football ambitions extended to the professional ranks. In the late 1960s, he signed with the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League (CFL), suiting up for five games as a defensive lineman before a knee injury curtailed his tenure. He subsequently tried out for () teams but did not secure a roster spot, marking the end of his gridiron career and prompting a shift toward . This period underscored his athletic versatility but highlighted the physical toll of contact sports, influencing his transition to non-contact strength disciplines.

Entry into Bodybuilding and Key Achievements

Coleman, born Eldridge Wayne Coleman Jr. on June 7, 1943, in , developed an early interest in through . At age 10, he visited his first , drawn to the activity by his natural athleticism, and by age 11, he was fabricating homemade training weights from pipes and other materials to continue practicing at home. This self-initiated pursuit culminated in competitive during his teenage years. In 1961, at age 18, Coleman won the of the Mr. Teenage America bodybuilding contest, a notable early achievement in the sport (with taking the East Coast title). The victory led to his photograph appearing in a fitness magazine, providing initial exposure in bodybuilding circles and marking a key milestone before his pivot toward . While Coleman's competitive record remained limited beyond this teenage success—lacking further major contest wins documented in primary accounts—his physique development during this period laid foundational habits that influenced his later athletic endeavors.

Teenage Evangelism and Religious Influences

In his teenage years, Eldridge Wayne Coleman Jr., born on June 7, 1943, in , navigated a turbulent upbringing marked by an abusive father afflicted with , which contributed to frequent street fights and a "mean and wild" disposition. Seeking physical outlet and discipline, he turned to , winning the West Coast Teenage Mr. America title in 1961 at age 18, but his path shifted dramatically toward religion after attending a revival tent meeting in Phoenix. Coleman's religious conversion occurred under the influence of fundamentalist Baptist preacher John R. Rice, whose message on eternal salvation prompted him to embrace as a born-again believer. Following his bodybuilding success, he was invited to an Pentecostal church by Beverly Swink Welch, where he deepened his commitment and began aspiring to , viewing it as a calling to become a "Holy Ghost preacher." This period marked a rejection of his prior dropout from school and street life, with faith providing a framework for personal redemption. Mentored by evangelist Jerry Russell, Coleman honed preaching techniques that he later likened to "pure ," traveling nationally as a teenage Pentecostal to share his and demonstrate convictions through feats like bending bars to symbolize spiritual strength. His cadence and charismatic delivery, developed during these outreach efforts, foreshadowed elements of his future wrestling promos. A profound admirer of renowned evangelist —despite the latter's Southern Baptist roots contrasting Coleman's Pentecostal affiliation—Coleman drew inspiration from Graham's oratory style and mass appeal, which influenced his adoption of the "Billy Graham" ring name in tribute years later.

Bodybuilding Career

Competitive Successes and Physique Development

Eldridge Wayne Coleman, later known as "Superstar" Billy Graham, initiated his bodybuilding endeavors during adolescence, achieving early competitive success in 1961 by winning the West Coast division of the Mr. Teenage America contest under IFBB sanctioning at age 18. This victory marked his initial major recognition in the sport, highlighting his developing physique amid contemporaries like , who claimed the East Coast title. Graham's competitive highlights extended into the , including a win in the Best Developed Arms category at the 1975 WBBG Pro Mr. America event organized by the , where his circumference measured 22 inches. He also secured second place in a 1977 Strongest Man competition held in , demonstrating his combined strength and muscularity beyond pure posing events. His physique, characterized by a height of 6 feet 4 inches and peak bodyweight exceeding 325 pounds, emphasized massive yet relatively lean mass, particularly in the upper body. Early training involved fabricating homemade weights from cement due to limited resources, fostering disciplined progression. By the mid-1960s, Graham relocated training to the original in , collaborating with elite bodybuilders including , , and , which refined his techniques and accelerated development. Strength feats underscored his power base, notably bench pressing 605 pounds under spotting from Schwarzenegger and Columbu, narrowly missing Pat Casey's of 616 pounds at the time. Arm specialization featured heavy incline curls for and overhead extensions for , contributing to his signature 22-inch "pythons" that garnered media attention, including a Strength and Fitness magazine cover and features alongside Schwarzenegger.

Transition from Bodybuilding to Wrestling

After establishing himself as a competitive in the early , with wins in regional contests and training partnerships at alongside emerging stars like , Eldridge Wayne Coleman sought to channel his athletic prowess into professional . A severe tear during this pursuit ended his football aspirations, prompting a pivot to professional where his muscular physique could be leveraged. Encouraged by an acquaintance familiar with the industry, Coleman relocated to Calgary, Alberta, in late 1969 or early 1970 to train under , the patriarch of the and operator of the infamous "" training facility. This rigorous regimen emphasized grappling fundamentals, endurance, and showmanship, adapting Coleman's bodybuilding-honed strength— including a reported 605-pound —to the demands of scripted athletic combat. Coleman made his in-ring debut on January 16, 1970, in under the name "Big" Wayne Coleman, facing Dan Kroffat in . His transition marked one of the earliest high-profile integrations of aesthetics into wrestling, featuring tanned skin, oiled musculature, and poses that emphasized vascularity and size, influencing the visual standards of the sport thereafter. Despite the shift, Coleman maintained some involvement, such as winning the Bodybuilding Guild's Pro Mr. America best arms division in 1975 with a 22-inch bicep measurement.

Professional Wrestling Career

Debut and Initial Training (1969–1972)

Eldridge Wayne Coleman Jr., leveraging his physique and athletic background, transitioned to in late 1969 after a recommendation from fellow wrestler Bob Lueck, a former player, to train under in , . Coleman relocated to the Hart family home and endured the grueling sessions in Hart's basement training facility, known as the "Dungeon," renowned for its intense physical conditioning and submission holds that broke down novices. This period marked his foundational education in wrestling fundamentals, including grappling techniques and ring psychology, under Hart's demanding oversight. Coleman debuted professionally in early 1970 for Hart's Stampede Wrestling promotion in Calgary, initially competing under his real name before aligning with veteran wrestler "Dr." Jerry Graham as a kayfabe brother, adopting the ring name Billy Graham and dyeing his hair blonde to enhance the familial gimmick. Throughout 1970, Graham transitioned to U.S. territories, wrestling full-time in the NWA Los Angeles promotion, followed by stints in Championship Wrestling from Florida and the NWA San Francisco territory, where he honed his in-ring style against regional competitors while maintaining a rigorous bodybuilding regimen to preserve his muscular build. By 1971–1972, Graham expanded into the (AWA) in , , engaging in matches that showcased his power-based offense and emerging charisma, setting the stage for broader recognition. These formative years involved frequent travel across independent circuits, building endurance and adaptability, though Graham later reflected on the physical toll of inconsistent booking and rudimentary training facilities compared to his prior athletic pursuits. His early performances emphasized raw strength over technical finesse, drawing from football blocking tactics rather than , which distinguished him in an era dominated by chain wrestling and holds.

Rise in the American Wrestling Association (1972–1975)

Billy Graham debuted in the American Wrestling Association (AWA) on October 2, 1972, adopting the ring name "Superstar" Billy Graham to emphasize his bodybuilding physique and charismatic persona. This marked a shift from his earlier wrestling appearances under his real name, Wayne Coleman, as he introduced flamboyant elements like tie-dye attire and boastful promos that set him apart from the promotion's traditional wrestlers. Verne Gagne, the AWA promoter and champion, recognized Graham's physical presence and drawing potential, positioning him quickly as a top heel attraction in the Midwest territory. Throughout 1973, Graham rose to prominence as the primary challenger to Gagne's , receiving at least seven title opportunities that year and into early 1974, though he failed to capture the belt in any, often losing by disqualification due to his aggressive tactics. Notable defenses included a January 16, 1974, match in , where Gagne retained the title, and a May 16, 1974, bout in attended by 5,183 fans, ending in Graham's disqualification. These high-profile encounters highlighted Graham's role in elevating event attendance, leveraging his muscular build—rare in the AWA's more amateur-wrestling-oriented roster—and verbal flair to generate as a villainous outsider. Graham also engaged in feuds with established stars such as The Crusher, , and , further solidifying his status as a main-event draw through squash matches and brawls that showcased his , including the bearhug and airplane spin. His early AWA television appearance against Tommy DeMarco on November 25, 1972, with as his manager, exemplified his emerging gimmick of a cocky, physically imposing . Despite criticisms of his technical limitations compared to AWA veterans, Graham's innovative presentation—combining aesthetics with psychology—laid groundwork for his national breakthrough, culminating in his departure for the World Wide Wrestling Federation in 1975 after failing to dethrone Gagne.

World Wide Wrestling Federation Championship Reign and Innovations (1975–1978)

"Superstar" Billy Graham debuted in the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF) on October 25, 1975, partnering with Spiros Arion to upset the WWWF World Tag Team Champions Chief Jay Strongbow and Peter Maivia via countout at the Boston Garden. Following this, Graham transitioned to singles competition, quickly establishing himself as a brash heel through victories over midcard talent and building momentum with his imposing 6-foot-4, 275-pound bodybuilding physique. Graham's early WWWF run featured high-profile feuds, notably challenging for the Intercontinental Championship in 1976, though he did not capture the title, and intensifying rivalries with champion through a series of matches that showcased his aerial abilities and , including the innovative use of the sleeper hold as a submission finisher. By early 1977, after a stint in other territories, Graham returned under promoter Sr. and positioned himself as Sammartino's primary , culminating in a title match on April 30, 1977, at the Baltimore Civic Center. There, Graham defeated Sammartino via bearhug while placing his feet on the ropes for illegal leverage, ending the Italian hero's second WWWF World Heavyweight Championship after 1,237 days and marking the first time a villainous character dethroned the longstanding champion in such fashion. As from April 30, 1977, to February 20, 1978—a 296-day tenure—Graham defended the belt in marquee bouts against contenders like in Texas bullrope matches, Ivan Putski in arm wrestling stipulations leading to pins, and multiple rematches with Sammartino, often drawing sellout crowds to despite his status. His reign concluded when clean-cut babyface pinned him with a roll-up at on February 20, 1978, following a grueling contest that highlighted Graham's resilience but underscored the promotion's shift toward a more traditional heroic . Graham's 1975–1978 WWWF tenure pioneered several innovations that reshaped wrestling presentation: he was the first champion to routinely don vibrant, trunks and boots instead of plain gear, applied body oil for a glistening aesthetic drawn from , and delivered Muhammad Ali-inspired rhyming promos boasting of his superiority—"the man of the hour, too sweet to be sour"—which elevated mic work to and drew mainstream attention. This flamboyant, larger-than-life archetype, emphasizing charisma and physique over mat-based purity, proved viable for titleholders, influencing subsequent stars and foreshadowing the entertainment-heavy style of the 1980s WWF expansion, though some traditionalists critiqued it as diluting wrestling's athletic roots.

Mid-Career Returns and NWA Engagements (1978–1986)

Following his loss of the WWWF Heavyweight Championship to on February 20, 1978, Graham continued competing in the promotion through November 1978, including high-profile matches against and . Injuries from years of physical wear, including joint damage exacerbated by his background and performance-enhancing drug use, prompted a hiatus after departing the territory. During this period, Graham made selective appearances in NWA-affiliated promotions to rebuild momentum, wrestling in Houston's NWA Big Time Wrestling circuit and , where he masked leg atrophy with specialized attire. In 1979, Graham engaged with the Continental Wrestling Association (CWA), an NWA member promotion in Memphis, where he defeated Pat McGinnis via stipulation to capture the CWA Southern Heavyweight Championship on October 10. He followed this in early 1980 with a run in NWA Texas (under Big Time Wrestling), challenging for and winning the NWA Texas Brass Knuckles Championship on January 18 after an initial loss in the , likely against . These territorial bouts showcased his enduring draw as a draw but were limited by ongoing health limitations, leading to another break before a mid-career pivot back to the WWF in 1982. Graham's 1982 WWF return featured a repackaged with a slimmer physique and reduced muscle mass, shaved head, mustache, and karate-style gi, positioning him as a face against villains like ; however, a severe from a Piper match sidelined him by late 1983. Shifting to NWA territories post-WWF, he challenged for the on November 22, 1984, in a losing effort. In 1985, Graham appeared at the NWA's on July 6 in a six-man match and defeated The Barbarian by disqualification in an arm-wrestling bout on November 28, while also securing victories like against Craig Carson in . These engagements highlighted his resilience amid declining mobility, serving as bridges to sporadic WWF comebacks by 1986, though his role diminished to managerial and exhibition capacities.

Sporadic WWF/WWE Comebacks and Later Matches (1986–1989, 2004–2009, 2015–2023)

Graham returned to the WWF in June 1986 as a face, marking his third stint with the promotion after a period in other territories. His in-ring comeback occurred on September 27, 1986, defeating jobber in a house show match taped for , where he showcased his signature despite visible mobility limitations from a deteriorating hip. Throughout late 1986 and into 1987, he competed sporadically in preliminary matches against midcard opponents, including bouts against enhancement talent and figures like , with his final documented WWF match taking place on November 7, 1987, in , , at age 44. These appearances were hampered by a severe hip injury sustained prior to his return, leading to a full surgery announced in May 1987; Graham publicly vowed a ring comeback post-operation but did not wrestle competitively again in WWF due to ongoing health complications. Following a long hiatus focused on recovery and non-wrestling ventures, Graham re-engaged with in a ceremonial capacity starting in 2004. On March 14, 2004, he was inducted into the class of that year during a ceremony held the night before in , with presenting him in recognition of his influence on modern wrestling personas. Later that year, on December 28, 2004, Graham made a surprise appearance at a house show, delivering a promo and physically confronting and knocking out Coach () in a non-competitive segment. From 2005 to 2009, his involvement remained limited to occasional live event cameos and promotional activities, with no in-ring matches; for instance, he participated in a February 25, 2005, house show interview segment, but health issues, including multiple hip surgeries and heart problems, curtailed further physical participation. Graham's WWE ties from 2015 to 2023 were non-competitive and infrequent, primarily involving legacy acknowledgments amid declining health. No matches occurred during this period, as he was in his 70s and 80s, managing chronic conditions like heart failure and requiring life support in his final days before passing on May 17, 2023, at age 79. His contributions were occasionally referenced in WWE programming and documentaries highlighting 1970s wrestling history, but he did not make on-screen appearances or comebacks, focusing instead on personal blogging and fan interactions outside official WWE events.

In-Ring Style, Persona, and Innovations

Charismatic Promos and Gimmick Elements

"Superstar" Billy Graham's persona as the self-proclaimed "" emphasized a bodybuilder's exaggerated physique, featuring 22-inch , bleached blonde , and vibrant, tie-dye-inspired wrestling gear that contrasted sharply with the era's standard singlets and boots. This , introduced during his 1977 WWWF World Heavyweight Championship run, positioned him as an arrogant who flexed and posed mid-match, drawing from routines to captivate audiences. Graham's ring attire and mannerisms innovated wrestling presentation by blending athletic display with theatrical flair, making physicality a central . His promos were marked by rhythmic, boastful oratory inspired by , delivering lines like "the man you love to hate" with poetic cadence and self-aggrandizement, such as touting his "24-inch pythons" in a NWA appearance. In a June 27, 1977, segment, Graham proclaimed himself the "man of the hour," using charisma to elevate his status beyond mere villainy. These interviews revolutionized wrestling mic work by prioritizing entertainment value and verbal showmanship, influencing subsequent performers through their emphasis on hype and over subtlety. Graham's 1982 return attempted a gimmick with a shaved head and strikes, but he later deemed it a failure that diluted his core appeal.

Physicality, Moveset, and Influence on Future Wrestlers

"Superstar" Billy Graham was billed at 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 m) in height and 275 pounds (125 kg) in weight, attributes that highlighted his exceptional muscular development derived from a competitive background before transitioning to wrestling. His physique featured prominently defined biceps, broad shoulders, and a tanned, oiled appearance that contrasted sharply with the more traditional, less sculpted builds common among wrestlers of the and early , marking him as one of the pioneers in integrating bodybuilding aesthetics into . This physical presentation not only enhanced his on-screen appeal but also emphasized strength and visual spectacle in matches. Graham's in-ring moveset reflected his power-based style, focusing on maneuvers that leveraged his size and strength rather than high-flying or technical grappling. His primary finisher was the bearhug, a prolonged submission hold designed to squeeze the air from opponents and demonstrate his crushing grip. Signature moves included the airplane spin, a dizzying rotational lift; bodyslams to overpower foes; and the full nelson, a controlling lock that immobilized adversaries. These techniques, executed with deliberate showmanship, aligned with his as a dominant, athletic "superstar" capable of manhandling larger competitors. Graham's physicality and style exerted significant influence on future wrestlers, particularly in shaping the archetype of the muscle-bound, promo-heavy entertainer. explicitly credited Graham as a template, adopting similar elements such as exaggerated boasts about arm size, colorful attire, and feather boas, while prioritizing physique over mat-based wrestling fundamentals. similarly recognized Graham's impact on an entire generation, including himself, for introducing a bronzed, bodybuilder-inspired look and energetic interview delivery that elevated wrestlers into mainstream pop culture figures during the 1980s expansion era. This legacy shifted industry emphasis toward marketable, visually striking performers, influencing the evolution from regional territorial stars to national icons.

Legacy and Impact

Positive Contributions to Wrestling Entertainment

"Superstar" Billy Graham revolutionized by integrating aesthetics, introducing a hyper-muscular physique that contrasted with the era's predominant builds and influenced industry standards for performers' physical presentation. His flamboyant attire, including tie-dyed trunks and bleached blonde hair, along with a charismatic , enhanced visual and performative spectacle, drawing stronger audience engagement through novel value. Graham's verbose, boastful promos, emulating 's self-aggrandizing style, transformed wrestling interviews into dynamic, personality-centric events that prioritized oratory flair over straightforward challenges, setting a template for future entertainers. This approach, combined with his emphasis on weight-lifting regimens, promoted more athletic training methods among wrestlers, contributing to the evolution toward larger, more defined competitors. During his WWWF Heavyweight Championship reign, secured by defeating on April 30, 1977, in , , Graham held the title for approximately 10 months until February 1978, marking one of the first extended tenures and defending it 10 times at against opponents including , Mil Mascaras, and , frequently selling out the arena. Overall, he headlined 19 sellouts at the venue in the 1970s, boosting gate receipts and demonstrating the viability of villain protagonists in drawing crowds. Graham's innovations profoundly shaped subsequent generations; adopted elements of his look, such as the blond goatee and feather boa, and phrasing like "brother" in promos, crediting Graham as the inspiration for entering the ring. Comparable influences extended to , , and in their interview techniques and colorful presentations, establishing Graham as a foundational figure in modern wrestling's emphasis on charisma and marketability.

Criticisms and Long-Term Effects on the Industry

Graham's in-ring style drew criticism for prioritizing performative flair and physical presence over technical wrestling proficiency, making him challenging to match with in bouts according to peers like . His promos, while innovative, frequently incorporated exaggerations or inaccuracies, such as claiming a fifth-place finish in the competition when he placed seventh. A core criticism centered on his role in normalizing anabolic steroid use through his pioneering bodybuilder physique, which set an aesthetic standard emulated across the industry despite the evident health risks. Graham admitted to heavy steroid consumption, including Delatestryl, leading to personal afflictions like degenerative joint disease and liver strain, effects that mirrored and foreshadowed widespread wrestler morbidity. His inconsistent stance—publicly decrying steroids in later years while privately advising talents like to use them—underscored perceived hypocrisy that undermined his anti-drug advocacy. Long-term, Graham's template of muscular dominance and trash-talking heel persona catalyzed the 1980s wrestling expansion, directly shaping figures like , who adopted similar elements for mainstream appeal and national syndication under . This shift elevated entertainment value and revenue—evident in sold-out defenses during his 1977–1978 WWWF title reign—but entrenched performance-enhancing drugs as a requirement for top billing, contributing to an of joint erosions, organ failures, and shortened careers industry-wide. By 1991, Graham's lawsuit against alleging steroid coercion highlighted systemic pressures his success inadvertently amplified, prioritizing spectacle over sustainable athleticism.

Controversies

Disputes with the McMahon Family

Graham's tenure as WWWF Champion ended on February 20, 1978, when he dropped the title to in , , at the insistence of Vince McMahon Sr., who informed him of the exact date in advance despite Graham's protests that it would derail his momentum as a draw. Graham, who had held the championship for 231 days after defeating on April 30, 1977, viewed the decision as a career setback, leading to his departure from the promotion and a return to NWA territories. Relations with Vince McMahon Jr. deteriorated further after Graham's 1990 release from WWF, where he felt underappreciated for pioneering the larger-than-life persona that influenced stars like . In March 1992, Graham filed a against WWF, Titan Sports, Dr. George Zahorian, and several drug manufacturers, alleging use caused his health issues including hip replacements and heart problems; the suit failed due to the , as Graham's documented use dated back to 1965, predating his WWF association. During this period, Graham publicly accused McMahon of direct involvement in distribution during a 1991 , a claim he later admitted was fabricated to damage McMahon's reputation amid the federal trial. Graham's criticisms extended to public media appearances, including a March 1992 episode of , where he condemned WWF's steroid culture and alleged misconduct by executive , allegations Graham recanted years later as exaggerated. In 2009, following the non-renewal of his legends contract over financial disputes, Graham auctioned his 2004 ring, dismissing the induction as "Vince 's personal event" rather than a legitimate honor, and voiced opposition to Linda McMahon's U.S. Senate candidacy, accusing her of profiting from industry violence and exploitation. He further targeted Vince McMahon in 2020 over booking decisions involving and in 2017 for a high-risk stunt, labeling them as emblematic of poor judgment. These outbursts, while rooted in Graham's perceptions of mistreatment, often drew backlash for their vehemence, with some observers attributing his rhetoric to personal bitterness rather than institutional reform.

Steroid Use, Health Advocacy, and Industry Backlash

Graham admitted to extensive use beginning in the mid-1960s during his phase, which he continued into his wrestling career to achieve and maintain his signature muscular physique, weighing around 275 pounds at 6 feet 4 inches. He openly discussed injecting multiple steroids, including Dianabol and testosterone, in preparation for matches, such as his 1978 title challenge against , where he detailed a regimen involving dozens of pills and injections daily. Long-term steroid abuse contributed to severe health deterioration, including avascular necrosis of the hips requiring multiple replacements starting in the 1980s, spinal degeneration, weakened bones prone to fractures, and cardiovascular damage leading to heart transplants in 2002 and 2017. These complications, linked directly to steroid-induced bone density loss and organ strain, confined him to a wheelchair in his final years and factored into his death on May 17, 2023, at age 79 from heart failure. By 1992, Graham pivoted to advocacy against steroid use, publicly attributing his physical decline to the drugs in interviews with outlets like and television appearances, urging wrestlers to avoid them to prevent similar fates. He testified as a key witness in the 1994 federal steroid trial against WWF physician James Zahorian, detailing the promotion's distribution practices and alleging coercion to use steroids for employability, which exposed systemic industry reliance on performance-enhancing drugs. Graham's outspokenness provoked backlash from WWE leadership, including , who viewed his testimony and subsequent criticisms—such as accusing of heavy use—as betrayals that fueled negative publicity and legal scrutiny during the promotion's expansion era. In , he filed a against WWE and Zahorian claiming and pressure to dope, which was dismissed but amplified tensions, leading to his marginalization from WWE events despite earlier influence. This fallout underscored causal links between unchecked culture—promoted for aesthetic appeal—and long-term athlete harm, with Graham's case highlighting institutional resistance to accountability.

Accusations of Gimmick Theft and Interpersonal Conflicts

Throughout his later years, "Superstar" Billy Graham repeatedly accused of stealing core elements of his wrestling gimmick, including the flamboyant, self-aggrandizing promo style, bandanas and trunks, oversized physique emphasized through posing, and the "Superstar" moniker itself. Graham, who popularized these traits during his WWWF Heavyweight Championship reign from April 30, 1977, to February 21, 1978, claimed directly copied them without proper acknowledgment after observed Graham's performances in the . In interviews and on his personal website, Graham described as having "stolen my gimmick, stole my bodybuilder look, stole my shirt, stole everything," asserting that 's success in the 1980s WWF relied on uncredited imitation rather than innovation. Hogan partially corroborated the influence, admitting in a 2023 that he "moulded [his] whole career around and Superstar Billy Graham" after seeing Graham wrestle, stating, "I stole a little bit from each of them" to develop his Hulkamania . Despite this, Hogan framed it as inspiration rather than theft, crediting Graham as a key motivator for entering in the early 1970s. Graham, however, escalated the dispute into personal animosity, publicly labeling Hogan a "phony" and criticizing his denial of use during the WWF's and scandals, which Graham believed mirrored his own health struggles from performance-enhancing drugs. The rift extended beyond gimmick claims, with Graham expressing bitterness over perceived lack of reciprocity; he noted initial tolerance for Hogan's borrowings but growing resentment as Hogan achieved superstardom without elevating Graham's legacy in return. This led to sporadic public barbs, including Graham's 2000s website posts and interviews where he recounted a strained final meeting with Hogan around 2020, describing it as lacking genuine reconciliation. Wrestling observers have noted that such persona overlaps were common in the territorial era transitioning to national promotion, but Graham's outspoken accusations highlighted underlying tensions over credit and industry evolution. No formal legal action ensued, and Graham's critiques persisted until his death on May 17, 2023, underscoring a personal conflict rooted in unresolved professional grievances.

Personal Life

Marriage and Family Dynamics

Eldridge Wayne Coleman, known professionally as "Superstar" Billy Graham, was married three times. His first marriage was to Shirley Potts, though details on its duration and dissolution remain limited in public records. He later married Madelyn Miluso, with whom he had two children: daughter Capella, born on June 8, 1972, and son Joe Miluso. The marriage to Miluso ended in divorce, reflecting the strains common in professional wrestling due to extensive travel and irregular schedules. In 1978, Coleman married Valerie Belkas, a union that lasted nearly 45 years until his death in 2023. Valerie provided steadfast support during his later career and health declines, including refusing medical recommendations to remove in May 2023 amid his final hospitalization. This longevity contrasted with his earlier marital instability, attributed in part to the wrestling industry's demands, such as frequent absences and encounters with groupies, which Graham himself described as prevalent in the profession. Family dynamics were marked by affection tempered by the dominance of his wrestling persona. Daughter Flaherty later reflected that Coleman was loving toward his children but prioritized his "" identity, stating, "He was loving and he loved us, but I think he loved being a little bit more." The family resided in , in his later years, where Valerie managed household responsibilities amid his health challenges, including hip replacements and heart issues. He was survived by Valerie, , Joe, and four grandchildren.

Health Challenges and Medical Interventions

Graham suffered from of the hips, a condition he attributed to prolonged use, which eroded his joints and necessitated multiple surgeries. His first such procedure occurred in 1986 or 1987, with at least six replacements by November 1998, during which he described being and reliant on pain medication. In 2002, Graham underwent a liver transplant due to and advanced hepatitis C, the latter likely contracted via shared needles during steroid injections in his wrestling career. He later achieved a cure for hepatitis C in 2017 through treatment with the Sovaldi after two decades of managing the disease. Graham experienced cardiovascular complications linked to his steroid history, including a heart attack on September 25, 2019, that led to hospitalization for congestive heart failure. He also contended with diabetes and persistent heart problems throughout his later years. In early 2023, an ear infection progressed to osteomyelitis in his skull bones, requiring extended hospitalization, multiple surgeries, and life support; this culminated in sepsis and multiple organ failure, from which he died on May 17, 2023, at age 79.

Final Years and Death

In the final years of his life, "Superstar" Billy Graham grappled with severe health complications largely attributed to decades of use during his wrestling career, which led to degenerative joint disease and organ damage. He had undergone a liver transplant in 2002 to address steroid-induced , but subsequent issues persisted, including diagnosed around 2012 and ongoing liver disease. By the early 2020s, Graham was managing acute requiring dialysis, congestive , , and significant hearing loss, conditions that confined him to limited mobility and frequent medical interventions. In February 2023, at age 79, Graham was hospitalized in critical condition after a near-fatal health crisis, prompting public appeals from his wife, Valerie, for assistance with mounting medical bills as he fought organ failure. Recovery proved temporary; by mid-May 2023, he was placed on life support at the in , battling major infections in his ears and skull, exacerbated congestive , and multi-organ distress including and complications, alongside bed sores from prolonged immobility. Graham died on May 17, 2023, at his home in Phoenix, succumbing to amid these cascading failures, at the age of 79. His passing drew tributes from the wrestling , acknowledging his pioneering influence despite the personal toll of his in-ring excesses.

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  74. https://whatculture.com/wwe/10-things-you-didnt-know-about-superstar-billy-graham
  75. https://nypost.com/2023/05/17/pro-wrestling-legend-superstar-billy-graham-dead-at-79/
  76. https://slamwrestling.net/legend/billy-graham/
  77. https://bluemountaineagle.com/2023/05/17/wrestling-legend-superstar-billy-graham-reportedly-dead-at-79/
  78. https://www.reddit.com/r/SquaredCircle/comments/10urlmp/wwe_hall_of_famer_superstar_billy_graham_79/
  79. https://www.cagesideseats.com/wwe/2023/5/15/23724304/superstar-billy-graham-life-support-failing-health
  80. https://people.com/sports/wwe-legend-billy-graham-on-life-support/
  81. https://www.menshealth.com/entertainment/a43929307/billy-graham-superstar-pro-wrestler-wwe-dead-79/
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